The dim candlelight flickered, casting eerie shadows across Damien's pale features. His labored breathing filled the small cabin as Elara and Seraphina worked feverishly, poring over ancient tomes in a desperate search for a cure.

"There has to be something here," Seraphina muttered, her brow furrowed in concentration. "We can't give up."

Elara's hands trembled as she turned another brittle page, her eyes scanning the faded text. "Damien..." She choked back a sob, gazing at his weakened form. "Please, hang on."

A violent coughing fit wracked Damien's body, and he managed a pained smile in her direction. "Don't waste your tears on me, love. You know my fate is sealed."...