Chapter 99: Chapter 99: Cries from the Dark

The pale light of dawn filtered through the wreckage of the House of Shadows, casting long shadows across the debris-strewn floor. Ethan's breath came in ragged gasps as he stumbled over to Zoe, fear gripping his heart. She was lying still, her face pale against the cold stone, a gash on her forehead slowly seeping blood.

"Zoe," Ethan whispered, his voice hoarse, his hands trembling as he reached out to check her pulse. Relief washed over him as he felt a faint, but steady, rhythm beneath his fingertips. She was alive.

"Zoe, wake up," he urged, gently shaking her shoulder.

She stirred slightly, a low groan escaping her lips as her eyes fluttered open. "Ethan?" she mumbled, her voice weak and disoriented.

"I'm here," he said, forcing a smile despite the chaos around them. "You're okay. We made it."