Chapter 30: Soldier
Daylan and the others stood behind Spine Street—a main road that cut through the heart of the city from the western to the eastern district—their eyes fixed on the church as four Phantoms drifted silently through the alleys. Before Daylan could speak, Medora broke the silence.
"Let me deal with them... Even if they catch on, I can handle it." She flashed a wide smile. "Go. See your family."
Daylan and Astara exchanged glances, following it with a nod. "We'll be waiting for you at my place."
She nodded as Daylan and Astara made their way toward the church. Without a moment's hesitation, Medora strode the alley, removed her overcoat and put on her mask.
The street buzzed with activity as Daylan and Astara weaved through the crowd—some people heading to the church for prayers, a few wagons rumbling in the same direction, while others were simply merchants and customers going about their day.
Before long, they reached the house. Astara stood motionless at the entrance, her eyes locked on the church's gothic silhouette, completely lost in thought.
Daylan tried to get her attention, but his words fell on deaf ears. With no other choice, he gently shook her out of her daze.
"Sorry... let's go."
Daylan kept staring at her, perplexed by her behavior. He shook it off and motioned for her to enter the room.
As soon as they entered the living room, Zira rushed to Daylan, wrapping him in a tight hug. Daylan ran his fingers through her brown hair while she grinned and waved at Astara.
Daylan was relieved to see Zira, but an unsettling feeling gnawed at him. She looked thin and pale, and her eyes were tinged with red—as though she hadn't eaten in days.