Finally, with a resigned sigh, he released her hand and turned to the broken machinery, his movements fueled by a futile hope. Bennett watched from a distance, his head shaking in a sad rhythm. He believed Moss knew this was a fool's errand, yet Moss was trapped in a cycle of denial. A bitter chuckle escaped Bennett's lips. He realized he was mirroring Ariana's misplaced compassion, trying to pull his uncle back from the absurdness.

Deeming it a lost cause, Bennett retreated, feigning ignorance.

Meanwhile, Adrian, clutching his throbbing neck, stirred awake. The dual and the unexpected injections had left him feeling violated and weak. Nausea churned in his stomach, but adrenaline kept him on guard.

His gaze flicked to Moss, a lone figure consumed by madness before the ice coffin.

Adrian felt like he had missed something crucial. He then scanned the room, searching for Holden.

Relief washed over him as his eyes landed on Holden, cradling an unconscious Ariana.

Adrian was cautious not to create too much noise in the strangely quiet room for fear that he would draw the unstable Moss' attention and set off another attack.

He crept closer to Holden, his voice barely a whisper as he mouthed, "Run."

Holden, understanding dawning in his eyes, gave a curt nod. As they brushed past Bennett on their escape, a small object was thrust into Holden's hand by Bennett.

A flicker of confusion crossed Holden's face, but Bennett quickly looked away, maintaining an air of aloof pride.

Seizing their chance with Moss distracted, Adrian and Holden, who was carrying Ariana, made a dash for the elevator.

Inside the elevator, Adrian's voice, laced with worry, broke the tense silence. "Will there be side effects? What's going to happen to me?"

“I'll have the best doctors in Eleymond examine you when we go back,"

Holden reassured Adrian.

Adrian offered a weak nod and then launched into a tirade about Bennett's lack of intervention before. But for the first time, Holden defended Bennett.

"He's done enough for us," Holden said. “Remember, Moss is Bennett's uncle. Bennett not interfering with us is already a big deal."

Adrian listened quietly as Holden spoke, nodding. "Yeah, you're right."

Adrian wasn't a fan of Bennett, but even he had to admit Bennett had been a huge help with Moss.

The elevator doors soon opened to the lobby on the first floor.

Adrian suddenly remembered something. He slapped his forehead. “Oh, crap..."