~Kaida Orion POV~
The knock came again, slow and heavy each strike against the wooden door felt like a drumbeat inside my skull.
Biat's hand found my arm, steady but firm, as he guided me a step back. "Stay behind me."
The healer stood frozen by the fire, his lips moving soundlessly, his earlier calm had vanished, replaced by an unease that made my skin prickle.
"Who is it?" Biat called out, his voice sharp then silence only the hiss of the fire answered.
Then... another knock this time, softer, almost gentle, but it carried a strange rhythm, like someone tapping in code.
The healer's eyes darted toward the door. "Don't open it no matter what you hear, don't open it."
Lupus stirred on the cot, a faint groan slipping past his lips. I hurried to his side, brushing my fingers over his hand. "Lupus, it's alright we're safe."
His eyelids fluttered. "Kaida… don't… answer…"
My heart twisted, even in his weakened state, he could sense the danger.
