Awakening to a New Reality

As I lay there, still trying to process my surroundings, Hange's expression turned serious. He glanced around the room, as if checking to make sure we were alone, before leaning in closer to me. "My love, there's something you need to know," he said, his voice low and urgent. I tried to sit up, but a sharp pain shot through my chest, and I fell back onto the pillow. Hange quickly placed a hand on my shoulder, holding me in place. "Don't try to move too much, you're still recovering," he said gently. I nodded, wincing in pain, and Hange continued. "The attack on our village... it was worse than we thought. Many were injured, and some... didn't make it." His voice cracked, and I could see the pain in his eyes. I felt a lump form in my throat as I tried to process his words. I had no memory of the attack, only fragments of images and sensations. Hange's grip on my hand tightened, and I knew he was trying to prepare me for the truth. "What happened?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. Hange took a deep breath before speaking. "The Dark Lord's army descended upon our village, burning and destroying everything in their path. We fought back, but we were outnumbered. I managed to get you to safety, but... many others weren't so lucky." I felt a wave of grief wash over me, and tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. I had always known that the world was a dangerous place, but I had never imagined that it could be so cruel. Hange's arms wrapped around me, holding me close as I struggled to come to terms with the news. As I lay there, surrounded by the sterile equipment of the hospital room, I realized that my awakening was not just a personal rebirth, but a chance to face the new reality of our world. The attack on our village had changed everything, and I knew that I had a role to play in the aftermath. Hange's voice whispered in my ear, "You're safe now, my love. You're going to be okay. We'll face whatever comes next, together." I nodded, feeling a sense of determination rising within me. I would not let the darkness consume me. I would rise from the ashes, stronger and more resilient than ever before. And with Hange by my side, I knew that I could face anything. As I lay there, I became aware of a presence outside the room. Footsteps echoed down the hallway, growing louder with each passing moment. Hange's eyes locked onto mine, and I could see a hint of wariness in his expression. "It seems we have visitors," he said, his voice low and cautious. I nodded, my heart beating slightly faster in anticipation. Who could be visiting me at this hour? And what did they want?