Raine's POV.

As they worked, I felt a surge of frustration. "Why isn't he waking up? He was marked, he should be stronger!" I cried, my voice breaking.

"Sometimes, the bond can take time to stabilize," Mirabel said gently. "He's fighting a lot right now. The darkness isn't just physical; it's mental and emotional too. He needs your strength."

"Then I'll give it to him," I vowed, wiping away my tears. "I won't let him go."

As the night wore on, I stayed by his side, wrapping my arms around him, pouring every ounce of love and strength I could muster into our bond. "Lucius, please. You have to hear...