The Doctor an older woman with steady hands and a calm presence stepped inside with a satchel of supplies. She paused when she saw Jadon, her expression softening with concern.

“Oh, sweetheart…” she whispered. “You’ve been through hell.” Evan stepped back just enough to give her space, but he stayed close, one hand resting on the bed near Jadon’s shoulder.

The healer began her examination: checking Jadon’s pulse, brushing her fingers lightly over the half formed mark, inspecting ...