Rick's mind gradually regained consciousness, akin to emerging from the depths. His body felt heavy and tired in a way that went beyond just being tired.
Rick's body ached all over, and a dull throbbing throbbed where his right eye had once been, but the only thing that mattered was that he was still alive.
That realization hit him first, followed immediately by the awareness that he wasn't alone.
Rick opened his other eye, adjusting to the dim light streaming through the thick curtains. The room was huge, at least three times the size of any bedroom he'd ever been in.
There were rich tapestries on the walls that showed demon warriors in different heroic poses. The bed below him was way too big, probably for someone Zork's size.
Rick was very aware of the warm bodies next to him on both sides, by the way.
Carmilla was curled up next to him on his left, and her crimson hair was spread out over his chest. Her breathing was slow and steady.
