[ "Run" is what Nia says, and Aerith looks at her for a moment then back at the men lumbering over the pair of them like predators. This must be how mice feel, she thinks, before nodding. Her feet keep up even when her mind hasn't quite gotten there, and they tear through alleyways without a word. The soles of her boots mix with the click-clack of Nia's heels. How in the world is she running in those?

At their back, she hearts it— the telltale sound of the men following them. ]

Those definitely aren't bouncers! [ A helpful comment, but she immediately follows it up. After looking back to confirm, she sees their long shadows cast on the wall and looks around for an escape route. Immediately, she realizes: ]

...I know this alley way... To the left! C'mon!

[ Tugging at Nia's grip, Aerith makes a beeline for the fire escape. ]

The rooftops, we can escape across them. [ She looks down at Nia, gaze serious but compassionate. ] Think you're up for some hopping and skipping?

[ Her other hand is already on the ladder. ]