He always ran so fast that everyone marvelled at the fleetness of his feet.

They all thought he was a champion and admired him.

No one had an inkling that he was trying to outrun the demons that taunted him.

He ran, and ran until he could no longer hear their snarling voices.

Once his steps faltered, they came nipping at his heels; he just had to keep running…

© Jacqueline Oby-Ikocha

---