FATE.

Chapter: 10

*****

TALON:

As consciousness slipped away, darkness enveloped me, swallowing my thoughts and fears. I felt weightless as if floating in an endless void, far removed from the chaos I had just experienced. This nothingness offered a strange comfort, but it didn't last long.

I jolted awake, gasping for air, my body rigid with panic. Blinking against the harsh light, I struggled to make sense of my surroundings. The familiar scent of pine mingled with something metallic—a stark contrast to the earthy warmth of the cave. I found myself in a dimly lit room, the walls lined with rough-hewn timber, and the floor felt cold beneath my bare feet.

"He's awake!" A voice cut through the haze. I turned to see one of the Betas from earlier leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, a smirk playing on his lips. "Welcome back, Talon."

I recoiled at the sound of my name; the way it rolled off his tongue sent a shiver down my spine. "Where is my Uncle?" I croaked, my throat dry a