The Lycan King's Outcast Omega (by Cara Anderson) novel Chapter 164

Sage

Consciousness returns in fragments – disjointed awareness of the cold stone beneath me, distant dripping water, unfamiliar scents that speak of underground isolation. The paralytic compound that rendered me helpless gradually loosens its grip, limbs tingling painfully as sensation returns in increments too small to offer escape.

But the most significant change occurs within – our bond, previously muffled to mere whispers, strengthens with each passing moment. Through it, I feel Alaric's focused rage, his determined pursuit, his absolute certainty of finding what's his.

North, I project, gathering every detail my returning senses detect. Underground. Mountain stone. Running water nearby.

My eyes finally cooperate enough to assess my surroundings– a chamber carved from a natural cave but modified with modern equipment. Medical monitors track my vital signs, specialized restraints secure my limbs despite the paralytic's lingering effects, and most disturbing, an entire section appears prepared for extended captivity – for months, not days.

"Ah, you're regaining awareness." Cassius's voice holds smug satisfaction as he enters my line of sight. "Right on schedule. The compound's effectiveness against your evolved abilities is impressively consistent."

I test my still partially paralyzed vocal cords, managing only whispered defiance. "Alaric will find me."

"Eventually, perhaps." He shrugs, checking monitors with professional detachment. "But he’ll be too late."

I push every detail toward Alaric – Cassius's presence, medical equipment, the cage he plans to keep me in. His response flows back with crystal clarity – rage carefully channeled into strategic pursuit, Phantom's fury harnessed into vengeful power.

Hold on. Almost have your location. Coming for you both.

Hope flares briefly before Cassius approaches with another syringe, eyes noting my returning mobility with scientific interest. "Fascinating how quickly your system processes the compound. Another adaptation from the poison attempt, I presume?"

"Don't." The word emerges stronger as paralytic continues fading. "Whatever you're planning—"

"Is already in motion." He administers the injection, a fresh dose of paralytic spreading cold numbness through my veins just as the previous dose's effects began retreating. "Can't have you accessing those impressive abilities quite yet."

The drug steals any returning strength I’d gained, limbs once again leaden, my power building beneath the surface but unable to manifest. Through our bond, I feel Alaric's alarm spike at my renewed helplessness, before the connection becomes muted again.

"Much better." Cassius sets aside the empty syringe, his satisfaction evident. "Now we can have a proper conversation about your future. About the child's future."

My hand rests protectively over my rounded abdomen despite paralysis limiting deliberate movement. Through our bond, I send my silent vow to protect what's ours. But it’s like there’s a wall between us, impenetrable to any messages trying to get through.

"I must thank you," Cassius continues, pulling a chair beside my bed with casual ease suggesting a lengthy discussion planned. "My previous attempt to claim your abilities proved unexpectedly beneficial, despite its apparent failure."

Confusion must show in my expression, my face among few areas retaining some mobility despite the medication taking effect. In my mind, Alaric's presence feels just out of reach as he tracks my location. The frustration has me wishing I could muster a scream.

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