Taking a detour through the less-populated riverbed and flood plain.

(Chapter originally by Misayaka on writing.com)

Hiding amongst the alleys was proving too close a call to bear. If any of those people had seen her... no, she had to do something else. Besides, the flood plain would be a quicker route home! Chie nodded intently, and as soon as she found the next recognizable side road, that was exactly where her feet swiftly took her. With a quick catch of breath, she approached the long path as stealthily as one could. The nearest bush provided a relatively safe vantage point from her to survey the area.

Although it was certainly less populated, it had a few problems that Chie hadn't considered. For one, the wide-open space would make anyone passing by as clear as day. For another... it was still broad daylight. And, as Chie reluctantly conceded with a gulp, she was probably going to stand out just a little.

She'd gotten this far, though. If she waited, the odds of her being caught would only skyrocket. It was then or never. Chie slowly moved out from the bush, and decided her best route would be to-