The crime was perfect, the loot was his. All that remained was the getaway. Planning this heist for months had afforded him the time to fantasize about how he would spend the coming years in luxury across the globe. Hiding in plain sight was so bold it defied logic. The Chaser would never suspect that the criminal of the century would expose himself in such a vulnerable manner. Slow and deliberate had always served the criminal's purpose well, allowing him to keep one step ahead of the police and private security alike. Tunnels and bicycles were his preferred mode of transport, the sky was a new and bold direction. That's why he made a mistake, a costly one. Prepping for flight isn't like spending months digging through the earth, nor is it as direct as stepping onto a two-wheeler and dashing away. Flight takes prep and prep takes time. Without a partner, there's only one resource for that time. He under-estimated his arch-nemesis... and the resourcefulness that would be employed in his capture. His getaway was ruined.
Balloons are a fascinating and undeniably alluring mode of transport. I've never flown in one, but I've certainly fantasized about the idea. It's on my list. I'm sure it'll be a safe, regulated, piloted balloon ride. Maybe at the Albuquerque festival. One thing I'm sure of, my fantasies always include a chair with a bunch of balloons tied to it... one more way life can take my breath away.
