**Chapter 2: The Edge of Darkness**

The anesthesiologist's gentle voice was the last thing I remembered before I slipped into the unknown. I was vaguely aware of the surgical team's murmurs, the beeping of machines, and the sterile scent of the infirmary. When I came to, I was in a hospital room, surrounded by the soft hum of equipment and the gentle rustle of medical staff. Hange sat beside me, his eyes sunken, his skin pale. He looked like he hadn't slept in days. His hand was wrapped around mine, his grip warm and reassuring. I tried to speak, but my voice was barely a whisper. "Hey," I croaked, my throat dry and sore. Hange's face lit up with a mixture of relief and exhaustion. "Hey, you're awake," he said, his voice shaking. He leaned forward, his forehead touching mine. "I was so scared, I thought I lost you." I tried to move, but a searing pain shot through my neck and head, forcing me back onto the pillow. Hange quickly adjusted my position, easing the pressure on my injured spine. "Easy, don't try to move," he said, his voice gentle. "You've got a long way to go before you recover." I looked around the room, taking in the sterile equipment, the IV drips, and the monitors beeping softly. I remembered the accident, the Titan's fist, and the pain. "What...what happened?" I stammered. Hange's expression turned grim. "You were badly injured. I performed emergency surgery to stabilize your spine and relieve pressure on your head. The medical team helped me with the rest." I recalled the ventilator, the endotracheal tube, and Hange's CPR. A shiver ran down my spine as I realized how close I had come to death. "How long...how long have I been here?" I asked, my voice still weak. "Three days," Hange replied, his eyes filled with a deep concern. "You've been in critical condition. The doctors said you might not make it, but...you're strong. You fought back." I smiled weakly, feeling a surge of gratitude towards Hange. He had saved my life, and I knew I owed him everything. As I lay there, I realized that my journey was far from over. The Titans were still out there, waiting to strike. But for now, I was safe, surrounded by people who cared for me. Hange's grip on my hand tightened. "You're going to be okay," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "I'll make sure of it." I smiled again, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. With Hange by my side, I knew I could face whatever lay ahead. The door to the room slid open, and a doctor entered, accompanied by a nurse. "Good morning, we're glad to see you're awake," the doctor said, smiling. "We'll need to run some tests to assess your condition, but for now, let's focus on getting you comfortable." As the medical team began their examination, Hange leaned forward, his lips brushing against my ear. "I'm not leaving your side," he whispered. "You're not alone in this." I smiled, feeling a sense of comfort and security. I knew that with Hange by my side, I could face whatever challenges lay ahead.