ZION EMBERTHORN

I rushed through the corridors, Aliyah limp and cold in my arms. Her body temperature was dropping rapidly, and I couldn't wrap my mind around what the f*ck was happening to her.

My heart pounded in my chest, fear and anxiety gripping me like a vice. I had already mind-linked Ralph, explaining the situation, and he instructed me to bring her to my quarters immediately.

"Aliyah!" I called out, my voice echoing off the stone walls. "Aliyah, stay with ...