Chapter 43: The Lady In Black, Part Twenty-Eight

[Hm. Looks like it's gonna rain today,] Zenith thought, looking up at the sky. 

The afternoon air was cool as Zenith and Julia arrived at the designated meeting point, an intersection near Julia's safe zone.

The soft glow of nearby lampposts cast a dim light, but it was enough to illuminate the figures of robed individuals who awaited their arrival.

As Zenith and Julia approached, the robed figures moved forward. 

The leader of the group stepped forward, his face partially obscured by the hood of his robe, but his eyes keen and observant. His youthful features were complemented by a mane of brown hair, swept back to keep it from falling into his eyes as he regarded Zenith with a mix of curiosity and caution. Despite his relatively young age, there was an air of authority in his stance and the way he carried himself, a testament to his experience and leadership among his peers.