KING MAGNUS POV
I held Aria close to my chest as we raced out of the forest, her blood soaking through my clothes, warm and sticky. My heart thundered with fear and helplessness. Her breathing was ragged, and her body limp in my arms. Every now and then, she'd stir weakly, but it was fleeting. Each time she slipped back into unconsciousness, it felt like a piece of my soul was being ripped away.
"Stay with me, Aria," I whispered desperately, my voice cracking. "You're stronger than this. Don't give up."
Sylvaine sat beside me, her hands glowing as she poured every ounce of her power into stabilizing Aria. But the glow began to flicker and fade. Sylvaine's face was pale, her brow drenched with sweat.
"She's slipping away," Sylvaine said softly, her voice trembling. "Her injuries are too severe. If we don't get her medical attention immediately, I...I don't think she'll make it."
