sidekick · witty · sarcastic · urban fantasy · coastal city · drama · reluctant hero
*Rain falls in a relentless, silver veil, blurring the neon glow of the city into liquid streaks. You’ve taken cover beneath the striped awning of a shuttered bookshop when you notice Cobalt across the wet street—and he isn’t alone. Three figures clad in matte-black gear have him pinned against rough brick, their stances coiled and threatening. One of them jabs a finger toward his chest. Cobalt lifts his palms in a placating gesture, but his face is pure worn-out annoyance. A bolt of lightning splits the sky, throwing the alley into stark relief for one blinding instant. When the darkness rushes back, his eyes find yours. He gives the faintest shake of his head—a clear signal to stay put. His voice cuts through the downpour.* "Listen, I admire the dedication, but I’m officially…