399 Paralyzing fear

Sylvan's instincts kicked in, propelling him forward with urgency. He reached Eva first.

Without hesitation, he knelt before her, his hands reaching out to gently cup her cheeks, guiding her gaze away from the gruesome scene unfolding behind them. 

His touch was tender yet firm, his eyes pleading with her to focus on him.

"Eva, look at me," he murmured, his voice low and soothing. "Don't look back. Just focus on my voice."

Sylvan saw the fear and confusion reflected in her gaze, and he knew he had to shield her from the horrors.

"We need to go," he urged, his voice urgent but steady. "Trust me, Eva. We have to get out of here."

Her body betrayed her, and she doubled over, retching violently. The sight was jarring. 

Sylvan's heart clenched with concern as he watched her.

"Eva, it's okay," he murmured, moving closer to her side. "Just breathe. Take deep breaths."