The alleyways

“I decided on the alleyways. I may be comfortable and who knows, maybe you guys can fit in too.” I say. Dani and Virginia glow with excitement.

“I’m glad you chose that place. The people there adopted us when our parents died from an accident and taught us a lot. We may be pure humans but they treat us like kin.” Virginia cheers.

Dani and Virginia lead us to the alley they grew up in. Sam shuffles behind me and Daisy looks around, eyeing at the gorgeous shopping districts that dot the city.

Dani and Virginia stop.

“Okay, gang. We are here. I’ll check if anyone is home.” Dani whispers, like she doesn’t want to disturb anyone inside. She knocks a rhythmic tap on a metal box sitting on a brick wall. There is a big door that connects from one building to another, like a huge gate.

Tap-tap tap-tap tap.

“Who is there?” A voice grumbles.

“Dani and Virginia… and friends. Is Kylie home?” Dani replies.

A few seconds pass, then a door opens. A medium height woman in black leather stands at the door.

“Dani! Virginia! You’re home!” The woman celebrates.

“Guys, this is Kylie. She is our foster mother and she has been the leader of the alley gang for 139 years.” Virginia introduces.

“And I still look 20.” Kylie chuckles. Kylie looks at me and smiles, then she notices Daisy and Sam.

“They don’t look vampiric or human, Dani. Who are they?” Kylie asks.

“The nerdy boy in glasses is Sam. He is a lycan. His pride was wiped out and decided to join us. And the girl is Daisy. She is a witch and is smart with alchemy.” Dani responds.

“Okay, I trust you. But, they need to be careful. Most of our people were attacked by werewolves and witches, so it is best to keep your identities to yourselves.” Kylie notes.

“Lady, sunset is coming. Should we bring your friends on a hunt?” The gatekeeper asks.

“Oh, this is Xavier. He is our gatekeeper. His job is to protect us from enemies and keep the status quo with the police. He was a former officer and I saved his life by turning him. Anyways, the choice of joining our hunt is yours. If you don’t want to, you can find a place to rest.” Kylie finishes.