They entered the main area. Ladders stretched between levels, curtains covered doorways, and colorful cushions and furniture decorated common areas. The pleasant aroma of incense and cleanser floated on the air. A few kids spotted Jayden and Mojag and dashed over to ask them questions in a breathless rush. Adults worked at various tasks, crafting goods to sell at the market. Others bustled about. It was a bubble of peace. They didn’t need the Water Prince’s guards or the Heliacal Priestess’s deacons here. Yes, they had to find their own food and water, but they policed themselves and prayed to the Sun Goddess on their own terms.

Of course this wouldn’t work on a larger scale. There was a reason for guards and organized religion helped a number of people. Unfortunately for Zirdai’s citizens, those in charge had been corrupted by the power. She hoped that wouldn’t happen to her.

Orla spotted them and hurried over. Gray streaked her black hair, and although older, she moved with the same energy as a child only a few circuits old. Her gray-eyed gaze met Shyla’s. The woman’s curiosity blasted Shyla and was followed by wonder and awe. Surprised by Orla’s intensity, Shyla strengthened her mental shield. It’d been easy to block Mojag’s rambling thoughts and, since she hadn’t read Jayden’s soul, she didn’t pick up his thoughts and emotions.

“Your eyes,” Orla said, stepping closer. “They’ve changed color.”

Oops. Shyla glanced at Jayden.

“Orla helps the Invisible Sword from time to time,” Jayden said. “Who do you think has been supplying us with water these last six sun jumps?”

“Thank you,” Shyla said.

Instead of answering, Orla cupped Shyla’s cheeks. Her bony fingers were cold. “I knew you had greatness in you. Even shunned as a sun-kissed, you persisted, and look at how the Sun Goddess has rewarded you.”

More like ordered her, but Shyla wasn’t going to correct the woman. She’d only told Hanif about her…encounter with the Sun Goddess that may or may not have been a heat-induced delusion. I do not enjoy seeing my people suffer, the goddess/delusion had said to her. Make it stop.

Orla released her. “I’m sorry I don’t have any extra jugs of water for you.” She gestured to the others nearby. “The last batch we received was all poisoned. We are rationing what we have until another source can be found.”

“That’s terrible. We’re not here for that. You’ve done more than enough,” she said.

“Where’s Zhek?” Jayden asked. “Shyla’s injured.”

“It’s minor,” she rushed to assure Orla while frowning at Jayden.

“He’s checking on Darma. Her baby is due soon. I’ll let him know you’re here. In the meantime, please help yourself to some refreshments.”