Liliana’s POV I drifted in and out of consciousness, the pain and exhaustion tugging me back into darkness every time I tried to wake. When I finally managed to open my eyes, I was met with the oppressive gloom of a small, musty room. The wooden beams above me creaked as if they were struggling to hold the structure together. The smell of damp wood and decay filled the air, making it hard to breathe. As my senses gradually returned, I became aware of the coarse ropes digging into my wrists and ankles, the restraints still holding me firmly in place. My body felt heavy, every muscle aching from the strain of what I had been through. I tested the bonds, already knowing they would hold. My strength was nearly gone, leaving me weak and helpless. I lay still, staring up at the dark, creaking

