Wolves of the new dawn

Leaving the city

*Torren*

The moment Freesia agrees to come with us, a wave of relief washes over me. Her fierce determination tells me she’s made this choice not just for herself, but for Raylee too. I can see the worry etched into her features, but beneath it lies a glimmer of hope. I won’t let either of them down.

“Thank you,” I say, my voice low but sincere. I glance at Raylee, who looks up at her sister with so much relief it makes my heart swell. I can sense her trust in Freesia, and I know I must honor that trust by ensuring their safety.

“Before we leave, we need more supplies.” Freesia’s voice is steady as she takes charge. “And you can’t carry her around like that, Torren. People will notice. I know a*****e where we can get what we need for our journey without to many questions.”

Her practicality grounds me. “Lead the way,” I respond, following her as she navigates the quiet streets of the city. The neon lights flicker overhead, casting colorful shadows on the pavement, most people are clearly asleep now. It’s a stark contrast to the danger lurking beneath the surface, and I can’t afford to let my guard down.

As we weave through the streets, I keep a protective stance, watching for any sign of trouble. We reach an area where the streets are alive with laughter and chatter, the scent of street food wafting through the air, but I’m focused on keeping Freesia and Raylee safe.

We approach a small, brightly lit store, its windows showcasing shelves stocked with goods. “This is it,” Freesia says, her eyes scanning the entrance before she pushes the door open. The bell above jingles, and I follow them inside, immediately hit by the warm air and the smell of spices.

“Grab what you can,” I instruct as we step deeper into the store, the vibrant colors of the products around us almost overwhelming. “We can’t linger.”

Freesia nods, her expression shifting from urgency to determination as she moves through the aisles. I watch as she quickly fills a small backpack with canned goods, bottled water, and a few snacks, her hands moving with practiced efficiency. Raylee stays close to her side, peering at the items with wide eyes.

“Get some more first-aid supplies too!” I call out, my voice low but firm. Freesia turns, a small smile breaking through her tension as she reaches for a first-aid kit from the shelf. It’s a simple gesture, but it reassures me that she’s thinking ahead.

As they gather supplies, I scan the store, ever aware of our surroundings. There are a few other shoppers, oblivious to the urgency of our situation. I can’t shake the feeling that we’re being watched, but I have to trust that we can blend in long enough to grab what we need.

“Let’s hurry,” I urge, my voice a low murmur. Freesia nods, her backpack now bulging with essentials. Raylee holds up a small flashlight, and Freesia nods approvingly. “Good thinking!”

Once we’ve gathered everything, we head to the checkout counter. Freesia pays quickly, her hands shaking slightly as she fumbles with her card. I can see the anxiety written on her face, and it only strengthens my resolve to get them out of here safely.

“Thank you,” she says to the cashier, her voice steady despite the tension in the air. As we exit the store, I keep watch, my senses heightened. The street seems busier now, the laughter and chatter of the crowd masking our movements.

“How do we get out of the city?” Freesia asks.

I smile. “Same way as I planned to get in… the main sewer pipe.”

“The sewer pipe?” Raylee asks, making a face.

My eyes are scanning the area for any potential threats. “No worries, at noght it is almost empty.”

“How far?” Freesia replies, her voice low as she guides Raylee along.

“Just a few blocks over,” I tell her, nodding in the direktion.

The thought of escaping the city gives me a renewed sense of purpose. I lead the way, keeping a protective arm around Raylee as we navigate the people. This must be the rich people, the ones that are allowed some joys.

As we reach a quieter side street, Freesia pauses, glancing around. “It should be here then?” she murmurs, her brow furrowed in concentration.

“Stay close,” I remind them, my instincts on high alert. Just as I’m about to suggest we move along, a flicker of movement catches my eye. A figure stands at the end of the alley, watching us intently. My heart pounds as a sense of danger courses through me.

“Torren?” Raylee whispers, her voice barely audible. I can see the fear in her eyes, and it fuels my protective instincts.

“Keep walking,” I say, my voice low and firm. I can’t let them see our apprehension. Freesia, sensing my urgency, quickens her pace, guiding Raylee forward.

Finally, we reach the entrance to the sewer pipe, concealed beneath a tangle of weeds and debris. I crouch low, scanning the surroundings once more. “This is it,” I whisper, glancing back at Freesia and Raylee. “Stay close, and don’t make a sound.”

Freesia nods, gripping Raylee’s hand tightly. We step into the darkness of the pipe, the air cool and damp against my skin. The tunnel stretches before us, a winding path into the wastelands. I can feel the pulse of adrenaline in my veins, and though the city above us buzzes with dangers, down here, we’re hidden from its watchful eyes.

“Keep moving,” I instruct, leading them deeper into the darkness. The echo of our footsteps reverberates against the walls, and I can’t help but glance back, ensuring they’re right behind me.

I am not sure they really realise the journey ahead of us.