A cool, refreshing breeze drifted through the room, brushing softly against the boy's pale, luminous skin like the gentle touch of dawn after a nightmare.
The white curtains swayed lightly beside the open window, allowing streaks of golden sunlight to spill into the quiet room. Dust particles danced lazily in the air, and for a fleeting moment, everything seemed strangely peaceful.
Too peaceful.
Lying on the bed, Sian felt the crisp air against his face. His lashes fluttered faintly before those amber eyes slowly opened.
The moment consciousness returned, pain followed.
Sharp.
Heavy.
As though every bone in his body had been shattered and pieced back together by force.
"Ah… my body hurts like hell."
His voice came out hoarse and exhausted.
Supporting himself with one hand, Sian slowly sat up, muscles trembling slightly from the effort. A dull ache spread through his entire body as he glanced around the unfamiliar room in confusion.
When had they escaped that desert?
