Ember Frost’s POV When I finally managed to open my eyes, I had no idea how long I’d been out. The night outside the balcony was pitch black, and the only light in the room came from a few flickering candles. The wax must’ve been mixed with herbs, because the room carried a strange blend of sweetness and something else, almost bitter. “Hello…?” My voice startled me. It came out rough and broken, like metal scraping against stone. I reached for the cup of water beside my bed and took a small sip. Even that simple act drained what little strength I had left, and I sank back against the pillow, completely worn out. "How are you feeling now?" A cold, unfamiliar voice echoed through the room, sending a chill down my spine. I darted my eyes around in panic, searching for the source, but t

