Snippet #2218631

"I'll see you later!"

"Be careful Pipsqueak! It's dangerous out there at night. Have you got-"

A dull thud resounded around a dimly lit-street as a heavy wooden door was pulled to a close. The gentle patter of footsteps followed suit as a tiny figure walked quickly between the flickering orange street-lights which cast their artificial beams onto the paved street below. Shadows lurked and danced on the fringes, where the tendrils of light could not penetrate, especially the depths of darkened alleyways. It was here that all manner of dark and dangerous things crept silently, eyes watchful and ears keen for misfortune. It was these that the figure cautiously avoided, preferring not to linger in the particularly shadowy alleyway openings. Sweeping a wave of auburn hair over her left shoulder, she cast a wary glance at her surroundings. A tingle edged up her spine, the hair on the back of her neck standing on end as though her senses were warning her of some unseen peril that lay in wait. Quickly she shook off the feeling and continued on her walk.

Turning the corner, she came up short when the next street was completely encased in blackness. The streetlights showed no sign of life. Taking a deep breath, Merinda Perri set off at a quickened pace. Her deep maroon eyes were determined and glinted slightly as she marched forwards, hair trailing behind her like a cape. No sound other than her footsteps echoed around the deserted street and Meri began to regret her decision to visit a friend who lived six blocks away. But normally the walk was easy and she could cut across the park which would be peaceful at this time of the day. The lack of other people made her nervous. Her whole body was tensed and ready to spring into action the moment that she needed to. In all honesty, her body was ready to run if she needed. Her height meant that in fight she would possibly come off worse. A disturbance down one of the alleys caused her to jump and walk a little faster. The end of the street drew nearer and the gates of the park loomed into sight. A sigh of relief escaped her pink lips as she allowed herself a smile.

That was until the thundering sound of paws descended upon her from behind. Twisting, Meri eyes scanned before her mouth opened in a scream. A huge black dog was running full pelt towards her, muzzle cracked open, pink tongue lolling. Spittle and froth foamed from between pointed white teeth. But it was the eyes that caught her attention. Bright red with slits for pupils. Meri didn't give herself time to think, she simply took off at a run towards the park. Darting between the trees, she allowed another ear-splitting scream to leave her lips.