They drove into Karachi together, in the van. Laila, Miko, Orchid, Morpheus, Jaya, Zulfi, and David, Orchid's child-in blood.

The entrance to the disco was below street level and a disperse crowd loitered on the walk above, waiting to go inside. Orchid and Morpheus were wearing long coats and dark glasses, so that they weren't recognized. David and Zulfikar helped them to carry in their gear.

Laila went immediately to the bar and asked for a blood. The bartender looked at her a bit shadily; perhaps he was trying to look knowing. Outside The Village most every establishments sold blood under the counter, if at all. This wasn't America; Miko had told Laila stories about America. But they were paying the boys to play their small club, and so Laila knew they would have the blood.

It was a Red Rabbit, popular label. She turned about and scanned the club. Laila liked her new ability to pick up thoughts, though crowds were still confusing, she hadn't learned to tune them out. She smiled to herself. Sidi was here, he'd brought some other man along, one in tinted glasses and very casual classic clothing, denim pants and a open silk shirt. Laila saw his expensive designer leather shoes. This was a man dressing down on purpose.

Sidi came to her, excited. "Laila, I'm glad you're here." He turned to the other. "This is the girl I was telling you about, Laila Numan. Laila, this is my friend, Ali."

Laila smiled just enough to show fangs. Ali was only one of his names.

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Pssst: Laila probably learned to spot designer shoes after meeting a certain accessories designer.