The hospital (1)

Erik's consciousness waned and flowed as June flew him back to Liberty Watch.

Agony assaulted him with every beat of June's mighty wings, yet some small mercy kept the pain at bay. It was darkness.

Through cracked lids, when Erik's consciousness returned, he saw the forest pass in a green-black blur.

He tried to lose himself in pondering the battle he just fought, analyzing each of his mistakes in tactics and ability.

Anything to keep from dwelling on the shattered mess of his body and the long road to recovery.

But even his mind could only focus through so much pain. Darkness beckoned once more, and this time he welcomed its haven.

June's arrived at Liberty Watch's secret entrance. The high hill was looming above them like a silent giant, which did nothing but increase June's fears.

The clone's hands, slick with Erik's blood, beat a frenzied rhythm against the cold metal door.