Chapter 36: Helpless

Caden let out a raspy chuckle, his voice dry from disuse. "I feel like I've been run over by a star cruiser," he admitted, trying to sit up but finding even that small movement difficult.

"One month and three days," Elara answered softly, her gaze filled with worry. His eyes widened slightly, clearly surprised at the duration of his unconscious state.

Valara, ever the practical one, interjected. "Since you've been in a coma for that long, your muscles have atrophied somewhat." She gestured to his limbs, which indeed looked thinner and weaker than he remembered. "For the next week, we're going to put you through physical therapy. It won't be easy, but it's necessary to get your body working as it should again."

She paused, looking at him sternly, yet there was a hint of warmth in her gaze. "You've fought a good fight, Caden, but it's not over yet. Now, you have to fight to get your strength back."