NO WHISPER OF THE DARK PIT.

RUBY JUNE.

My eyes slowly fluttered open, adjusting to the harsh brightness of the room. The rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor was the first thing that made me realize I was in a hospital. I couldn’t remember how I got here; I thought I’d been left for dead. But somehow, I survived. As my gaze drifted to the other side of the room, I noticed Charles sitting there, his legs crossed, his expression unreadable.

“You are finally awake,” he observed, his eyes studying me intently.

“In the flesh and spirit,” I replied, wincing as I attempted to sit up.

Charles was at my side in an instant, gently stopping me. “Don’t try to move. Your body needs more time to heal. That silver knife cut deep. It’s a miracle you survived. You wouldn't be here now if I hadn’t gotten to you in time.”

“How long ……