CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY THREE

{ FINDING ALLIES }

The first rays of dawn cast a golden hue over the mansion. Zack lay in Flora's arms, his breathing slow and steady. The others gathered around, exhaustion etched into their faces, but a glimmer of hope showed in their eyes. The night had been brutal, but they had survived. For now.

Diana stood by the window, keeping watch for any remaining threats. Her heart was still pounding from the adrenaline of the fight, and she found it difficult to relax despite their temporary victory. She glanced over at Zack, grateful for his resilience and leadership. She looked at him and still didn't understand how the ninjas had magically come out of the thin darkness or what they wanted with them.

"We can't stay here," Zack murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. Flora tightened her grip on him, her eyes filled with concern. She looked at him and knew he wasn't wounded, but his life force wasn't balanced. He needed more rest.

"You're in no condition to move," she protested, but