*Runze's POV*
I blink my eyes open slowly.
The very first thing I notice is the chair right beside my bed. It sits completely empty.
It looks strange. For a moment, I just stare at the vacant seat, trying to clear the heavy fog from my mind. The slight dip in the cushion is still there, and his dark suit jacket still hangs over the backrest. He can't have been gone long.
The door handle clicks before my thoughts can wander any further.
Mrs. Wen steps inside, holding a thermos and a small paper bag. The moment she sees I am awake, a warm smile spreads across her face.
"Good morning, Young Master."
"...Morning," I reply. My voice is rough and dry, but at least speaking doesn't hurt as much as it did yesterday.
She goes to the nightstand and pours a little warm water into a paper cup. "Drink slowly."
I take it. The warmth slides down my throat, immediately easing the tightness there.
"...Where is Bael?"
