They made their way to a secluded area within the pack's territory. The towering trees seemed to close in. Marcus's breath came in short, sharp bursts, his mind racing with a thousand unanswered questions. Why had the spirits chosen this moment? Why Alina? And, most pressingly, why wouldn't she wake up?
Finally reaching a safe spot, Marcus gently laid Alina down on a bed of soft moss, his hands trembling as he held onto hers. Her skin was cool to the touch, and the faint rise and fall of her chest was the only sign that she was still alive.
He knelt beside her, his eyes scanning her face for any sign of consciousness, but she remained unresponsive. The worry etched deep lines into his face as he squeezed her hand, as if willing her to return to him.
"Marcus..." Hector's voice was soft yet firm as he placed a comforting hand on his son's shoulder. "You have to go back and calm everyone. I believe Alina will be fine."
