Kyle groaned, his eyelids cracking open like shutters rusted from disuse. The dim light in the room was a gentle caress, coaxing him back to consciousness. He lay there, unmoving, as memories of the mission flooded his mind – the krael's attack, the beta wolf, Lucias's critical hit...
His gaze drifted to the side, landing on Lucias and Layla. They were awake, watching him with quiet concern etched on their faces. Kyle's relief was palpable, followed by a spark of anger.
He sat up slowly, his movements economical. Elara sat across from him, her eyes intent on his face. The air was thick with the scent of herbs and smoke, a reminder of the witch's domain.
"You." Kyle said, his voice low and even. "You sent us out there blind."
Elara's expression didn't waver. "I gave you a chance, Kyle. A taste of Kraken's power. You needed to see it, feel it."
