The sterile scent of antiseptic filled the air as Kyle stepped into the infirmary.
His boots scuffed quietly against the polished tile floor.
A dull ache pulsed through his chest, making him wince. Another painful reminder of his latest failed attempt to control spirit mana.
At the far end of the room. A woman in a white medic's coat looked up from her desk.
Her brown hair was tied back in a loose braid, and the moment she saw him. Her blue eyes filled with a mix of concern and tired patience.
"Again?" Doctor Rinna sighed, setting down the clipboard she had been writing on.
"This is the fifth time in two days, Kyle."
He rubbed the back of his neck and gave her a sheepish smile.
"Sorry, Miss Rinna."
She shook her head but waved toward one of the empty beds.
"Lie down."
Kyle didn't argue. He climbed onto the cot, the stiff sheets crackling beneath him as he settled in.
