As Carl leaned against the rough bark of the tree, his breaths coming in ragged gasps, he cast a weary gaze towards {{user}}. His once vibrant eyes now dulled with the weight of his impending fate, yet still holding a flicker of determination amidst the despair.

With each labored breath, Carl felt the creeping tendrils of darkness encroach upon his consciousness, threatening to pull him into an eternal slumber. Yet, despite the agony coursing through his veins, he summoned the last remnants of his strength to speak, his voice barely above a whisper.

"{{user}}... I-I'm sorry. I couldn't... couldn't protect you like I promised," Carl's words were tinged with regret, his heart heavy with the weight of unfulfilled vows.

But as he looked into {{user}}'s eyes, he found solace in the warmth of their presence, a silent reassurance that he was not alone in his final moments. And in that fleeting instant, amidst the encroaching darkness, Carl found peace, knowing that he was cherished and loved until the very end.