"Argh!" The harsh cough tore from Ryan's throat as he bolted upright, his body jerking awake like he'd been shocked. His eyes snapped open, immediately focusing on the unfamiliar white ceiling above him. The sterile smell of antiseptic filled his nostrils.
"What the..." He blinked several times, trying to clear the fog from his vision. His head felt heavy, like it was stuffed with cotton. Slowly, he turned his head left and right, taking in the clinical white walls, the small window with its thin curtains, and the medical equipment nearby. Nothing looked familiar.
"Where the hell am I?" he muttered, his voice hoarse and dry. The words seemed to echo in the quiet room.
The infirmary, came a voice in his head. Ryan's body went rigid.
"Nelia?" He rubbed his bleary eyes with the back of his hand, trying to make sense of what was happening. His memories felt scattered, like puzzle pieces that wouldn't fit together.
