Nathan’s breathing was shallow.

His body was weak but he was alive.

For now.

Lyla stood over him, fists clenched.

The whisper had almost taken him.

Almost claimed him.

And if they hadn’t found him in time

They would have lost him completely.

The others were quiet.

Not out of relief.

Out of realization.

Because if Nathan had been touched

Then there were others.

And they might not all be saved.

Kieran exhaled, arms crossed.

"This was just the ...