"𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡"

Chapter 6: The Aftermath

Thane awoke to the muted sounds of a bustling infirmary, the scent of herbs and healing salves heavy in the air. The light filtering through the high windows was soft and forgiving, easing the pounding in his head. He tried to sit up but winced as pain shot through his side.

"Easy there," a familiar voice chided. Thane turned to see a stern-looking man standing beside his bed. He had no recollection of this person but sensed he was someone important.

"You're lucky to be alive, Thane. If Suna hadn't managed to drag you back here, I'm not sure you would have made it."

Thane's eyes widened with sudden recollection. "Suna? Is she—?"

"She's recovering," the man assured him. "That fire blast did a number on her, but she's tough. Tougher than you, it seems."

Thane managed a weak smile, relief washing over him. "What happened after...?"

"The explosion caused quite a stir. We managed to contain the fire before it spread to the rest of the district. As for Fane, there's no sign of him, but the city's on high alert. We've got guards posted at every entrance and exit."

Thane nodded, his mind racing. "He said he'd return in a week."

"Then we'll be ready," the man said firmly. "And so will you."

Thane spent the next few days recovering, using the time to reflect on his encounter with Fane. The God of Death had called him the "Dead God," a title he neither understood nor desired. Yet the power within him was undeniable, a legacy of a past he had long tried to bury.