Another hour passed, and despite their relentless efforts, the healer and the pack doctor failed to save the pup, largely due to Claire's uncooperative behavior. Eventually, the steady rhythm of the tiny heartbeat faded into silence. The old doctor, doubting his aging ears, leaned in closer, hoping he was mistaken. But the truth was undeniable.
The pup was gone.
With the assistant still missing and no herbs available to numb Claire's senses, they were left with no choice. The doctor handed Claire a cloth to bite down on—there was no time, and they couldn't risk her biting her tongue. With no anesthesia, and her fully conscious, they prepared to open her belly to remove the lifeless child.
"Miss Claire, I'm deeply sorry to inform you… the pup didn't survive the treatment," the old doctor said gently, his voice heavy with sorrow as he studied every crease in Claire's expression.
