Xavian nodded, his face hardening with determination. He looked down at Eirik once more, his heart heavy with both relief and lingering worry, before rising to his feet.
Without hesitation, Kaelix lifted Eirik in his arms, holding him close as if his very life depended on it. The soldiers quickly gathered around, forming a protective circle as they prepared to make their way back.
The weight of Eirik's unconscious body felt heavier with every passing moment, each faltering breath a reminder of the fragile line between life and death. Kaelix's gaze was hard, focused ahead as he pushed forward, unwilling to let any delay threaten Eirik's life or the precious child he carried.
Suddenly, Theo, gasped, his eyes widening in horror. "There's… there's blood," he stammered, pointing at the dark stain trailing down Eirik's leg.
