CHAPTER 118 - Back to Beta

As we entered Juan's room, I couldn't help but growl at the sight before me. There, lying on a hospital bed, was a man who bore little resemblance to the Juan I once knew. His once dark hair was now pure white, and his face, which had been free of wrinkles, was heavily lined. His tanned skin was now pale and dry, like a desert that had been drained of all life. Killian stepped forward. His brow furrowed in concern as he studied the man before us. "The spell has taken a great toll on him," he said, his voice low. "His wolf has been separated from him, and it's tearing him apart." Julio's eyes filled with tears as he looked at his father. "Is there anything you can do?" he asked. "Our healers have tried everything." His voice broke as tears fell on his father's blanket. Killian nodded, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small necklace. An adumbra stone hung from the chain, glowing softly in the dim light. "Wista gave me this in case we encountered dark magic on our journey," h