Chapter 8

  The preparation room felt colder now, a chill settling deep into my bones. Medical staff moved efficiently around me, connecting monitors and preparing various injections. I lay on the medical bed, my breathing uneven as I tried to steady my nerves.

  Track stood beside me, his presence reassuring, an unwavering strength that had begun to feel familiar. He squeezed my shoulder gently, his voice firm yet comforting. “You’ve got this, Dion. I've seen you handle worse already. Just hold onto why you’re doing this, alright?”

  I managed a small nod, grateful for his support. “Thanks, Track. It means a lot coming from you.”

  He smiled warmly. “We’re teammates now. That bond matters more than anything. I trust you'll come through stronger.”

  Enny approached quietly, her presence always calming yet stirring something deeper within me. She took my hand briefly, her touch gentle but lingering. “We’ll be right here, Dion,” she whispered softly, eyes conveying more than words could express. “You won’t be alone through any of it.”

  I felt warmth spread through my chest despite the clinical coldness around us. Her gaze lingered just a moment longer, filled with subtle intensity before she stepped back, giving room to the medical staff.

  A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

  The door opened, and several Apex couriers entered, their presence unexpected yet heartening. Mika gave me an encouraging smile, her confidence infectious. Rune nodded firmly, eyes reflecting genuine respect. Even shy Val offered a gentle smile and whispered softly, “We’re cheering for you, Dion.”

  Their support strengthened my resolve, reminding me I was now part of something larger, something meaningful.

  "Alright, Dion," the lead doctor announced calmly, adjusting instruments around me. "We’re beginning the procedure now. You may feel some discomfort initially, but just try to stay calm."

  I inhaled deeply, heart pounding louder as the injections began. A cold sensation rushed through my veins, quickly replaced by sharp, intense heat spreading rapidly. My vision blurred, my heartbeat suddenly erratic, racing uncontrollably.

  A sudden alarm blared harshly, jolting everyone in the room. Panic surged through me, my limbs trembling violently, muscles contracting painfully. Track's voice rose sharply, filled with alarm. "What's happening?"

  "He's having an adverse reaction!" the doctor shouted urgently. "Stabilize him, now!"

  Enny’s voice called my name desperately, worry and fear evident, though distant and muffled as darkness closed swiftly around me. The room spun violently, the sound of shouting becoming distant echoes.

  “Stay with us, Dion!” Track yelled, fear breaking through his usually steady voice. I fought desperately against the engulfing darkness, but it was overpowering.

  Then everything went silent, monitors flatlining into a single, chilling tone that echoed ominously through the room.

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