Chapter 363 How Disappointing

The sterile air of the operating room hung heavy, as if it had swallowed every breath. I stood over Alaric, the witch's stone clutched tightly in my hand, its weight pressing down on me. It felt as though the very fate of the Zenith Pack rested on its smooth surface.

Dr. Barnett approached, his steps measured, offering a wordless help. I nodded, letting him place the stone carefully on Alaric's ch