The last image lingering in Silvanus's mind was Nerio's razor-sharp claws descending at blinding speed.
Immediately after, he jolted awake, springing up from the bed.
Silvanus gasped for air, eyes darting around. It took him several seconds to realize he was in the infirmary—the same bed he'd been placed in the first time he was brought here.
He exhaled deeply, pressing a hand to his forehead. His heart was pounding so fast it felt like it might leap out of his chest before finally starting to calm down.
Just then, the sound of footsteps echoed, followed by Ariana's excited voice:
"Silvanus! You're finally awake!"
Silvanus looked up and saw Ariana skipping in first, with Matthew beside her, his head slightly bowed, eyes filled with concern.
Silvanus eyed him and asked, "What's with that face? You look like you're on your way to my funeral."
Matthew shook his head quickly. "No, I just… I was worried about you…"
