Standing beside Knox's bed in the infirmary, the scent of herbs and antiseptic lingered in the air. I couldn't help but notice how Healer Barron’s fingers moved expertly over Knox’s healed wounds. Despite his injuries being mended, Knox remained unconscious, courtesy of Commander Vlad's sedative.

Knox’s face looked peaceful, a stark contrast to the usual intense demeanor he carried. Zion, Beta Cillian, Alpha Orion, and I were like statues, absorbing the silence. The room was ...