Alec likes the flirtation with death, while Richard, Richard likes the challenge. And this is completely unknown, and he, he wants to win. (He also has no idea just how hopelessly he is outmatched, or he might have been smarter. But these things, these people. They are inconceivable.)

He's not very far ahead of Alec, because he waits for him; Alec is always, always his priority, anymore.

So when the figures appear in front of him - one of them drops from the rooftop, somehow! - he stops, backing up a step but not quite into his friend.

"Stay close to the wall, Alec. If the pink stuff appears, try not to breathe in."

And he charges. Of course he charges. The best defense is a good offense, and his... his is the best.