Chapter 218

Anthony paced back and forth in his room, the weight of his conflicting loyalties pressing down on him. He had become genuinely fond of John and his companions, yet the mission Father Sebastian and Father Michael had tasked him with loomed large in his mind. The church's grip on him was strong, and the fear of failure and its consequences gnawed at his resolve.

One night, when the house was quiet and everyone had retired to their rooms, Anthony decided he had no choice but to make the call. He needed to report back to Father Sebastian and Father Michael, even if it tore at his conscience. He made his way to the small office room on the ground floor, where he knew the landline phone was located. It was a relic, seldom used, but it was his safest option for communication.

Anthony dialed the number he had memorized, his hands shaking. After a few rings, Father Sebastian's voice came through the line, cold and calculating.