Rhys POV

I forced myself to get out of bed while slowing my breathing. Deep inside my skull, I briefly sensed Michael's consciousness pulsing like a suppressed heartbeat—far away, muffled, like he was screaming beneath the surface. But he was no longer able to move.

Not right now.

Excellent.

I got up and moved my fingers. My body felt sufficiently functional. With each breath, my power was returning, yet the poison was still visible in my veins.

As I left the room, I pushed the door ...