George's eyes fluttered open. He winced in pain and felt a sharp ache spreading in his lower abdomen. His chest felt heavy, and his head throbbed.
For a few seconds, he couldn't understand anything because it was nothing but sheer darkness around him.
"Maria…" His lips moved, but his own voice sounded weak and odd.
Where was he? Wasn't he supposed to be on his way to the village?
Where is Greyson? And Mariana? And Ruby?
He tried lifting his hand to touch his face, but immediately frowned. It barely moved. It felt heavy, like something was pressing down on him.
In confusion, he tried to force his hand up. Nothing happened.
He felt panic slowly creeping up into his chest.
"He…hello…" He tried shouting, but it seemed no one could hear him.
He tried to stay calm. Maybe he was still drugged?
