Cassim slowly regained consciousness. The first thing he was aware of was a sharp, throbbing pain in his head. His next thought was Carina.
He tried to sit up but was held down a gentle but firm hand. He opened his eyes to see Aladdin.
"Stay down. You're still weak from Destain's magic and being out cold."
"Carina. Where's Carina?"
"They took her to the Land of the Black Sand."
Cassim then became aware of the fact that he was laying on the couch in th bed chambers he shared with Carina.
"How long have I been out?"
"About two hours."
"Two hours!?"
"Just be glad you didn't hear the sound of your head hitting the pillar. You're lucky to be alive."
"I failed."
"Huh?"
"I failed. I failed her. I failed your mother. I vowed not to let anything bad happen to her. Look at what's happened."
"We'll save her, Dad."