After being poisoned and shot, a man saves a woman trying to flee. She acknowledges he was shot because he protected her, stating she stays only to repay the life debt, not because he claims her as his mate. Meanwhile, his body is undergoing rapid changes due to a Mark. Their conflict is interrupted as predatory creatures encircle him, challenging him for dominance. He prepares to fight to instill fear, but she protests, pointing out his weakened state, urging him to listen to her instead.