Defying Fate: The Unstoppable Eileen novel Chapter 356

The next day, Eileen was bustling out of the slums with her family and a multitude of bags in tow.

Word had spread that Blood Phoenix was leaving, and the local deli owner was particularly reluctant to see her go. He came with his entire family to bid her farewell in person.

Blood Phoenix was a fair leader in the neighborhood—a modern kind who actually paid for her purchases!

The deli owner would often tell anyone who would listen that if Blood Phoenix hadn’t turned to the rough life, she could’ve been a scientist. Her moral compass seemed so well-tuned, and it was obvious she came from a well-educated background.

Joining Eileen's farewell entourage were two local big shots. Maloney, however, couldn't make it—he was laid up in the hospital, still in critical condition.

Feeling a bit awkward, Eileen waved her hand dismissively. "No need to see me off like this. I'll drop by when I have the chance."

Hale and Thein exchanged a glance. "No need to trouble yourself," Hale said with a hint of embarrassment.

"Yeah, Crestonia's quite a ways from here," Thein added.

Though they didn't say it outright, their expressions made it clear they were eager to see the back of her.

Adjusting her shoulder bag, Eileen cradled the local treats she’d been gifted. "Who knows what the future holds," she said cryptically.

Hale and Thein kept silent, secretly hoping they'd never cross paths with this feisty woman again.

Suddenly, Eileen added, "Before I go, let me leave you with a parting thought."

Hale and Thein braced themselves, nodding. "Sure, go ahead."

"Life," Eileen began, "is just a series of ups and downs and downs and downs and downs."

Thein and Hale exchanged bewildered glances.

But Eileen had already turned away, her words hanging in the air as she disappeared down the grimy alleys of the slums.

Egbert sidled up from behind, grabbing Eileen's shoulder bag as she instinctively tightened her grip.

"It's heavy," Egbert pointed out with a resigned sigh.

Eileen hesitated, then let him take the bag, watching him with a grin.

"So life is just ups and downs, huh?" Egbert quirked an eyebrow.

"Isn't it?" she retorted with a playful glance.

Egbert chuckled. "Is that why you sent those anonymous tips to the Duskhaven police about their illegal dealings?"

Eileen stood tall, bursting into a proud, off-key rendition of "This Little Light of Mine."

Egbert couldn't help but laugh, shaking his head as he tousled her hair. "You're a handful."

Hana, hobbling on crutches, suddenly appeared beside them.

"What do you want?" Eileen asked, eyeing her with some disdain.

Hana limped along in silence, glancing nervously over her shoulder.

Behind them loomed the imposing figure of the Bloodbane Shadowsociety's leader, NightKing, whose mere presence was enough to make Hana tremble.

But while Hana feared NightKing, NightKing feared Eileen.

So Hana wisely stuck close to Eileen, much to Eileen's annoyance.

Egbert took Eileen's hand, whispering, "Stay alert."

Eileen understood. Hana was a defector from Silverland, and if the Silverland agents got wind of this, they'd likely try to take her out.

They approached a busy intersection, waiting for the light to change before crossing the street. Eileen and Egbert flanked Hana protectively.

Once across, they were met by military personnel who had been covertly observing the area. A few soldiers nodded at Egbert, who handed Hana over to them.

Immediately, they snapped handcuffs on her, leading her away.