As the gravity of their decision settled over them, the atmosphere in the cabin grew thick with tension. Blake cradled Rose's limp form, his eyes never leaving her face.
"How exactly does this work?" Blake asked, his voice hoarse with worry.
Reggie moved around the small space, with his hand on his chin. "If I'm not mistaken, it's an ancient vampire ritual."
Randal nodded, adding, "It's not without risk, Blake. The process will push Rose to the very brink of death. If we're not careful, we could lose her entirely."
Blake's grip on Rose tightened involuntarily. "And you're sure there's no other way?"
"I wish there was," Reggie sighed, pausing to meet Blake's gaze. "But given her weakened state and the Nemisis's growing strength, this is our best chance of keeping her alive long enough to find a solution."
As they spoke, Rose stirred slightly in Blake's arms. Her eyes fluttered open, brown for the moment, filled with pain and confusion.
