Everyone stood back, afraid to approach Kimberly. Yet, Elena, summoning all her courage, took slow steps toward her.
The tension was so thick it felt like the walls themselves held their breath.
Kimberly stirred. Her eyelids fluttered open, but the harsh sunlight streaming through the window made her wince. She raised her hand to shield her eyes.
"Kimberly, how are you feeling?" Elena asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Kimberly turned her head weakly toward the sound. Her eyes blinked, adjusting to the light as she tried to focus on Elena's face.
"I... I don't know. What's happening?" Kimberly's voice was faint, her confusion evident.
The others exchanged wary glances. The sorcerer tightened his grip on his staff, the air around him vibrating faintly as he prepared a spell.
"Do you remember anything?" Elena pressed gently, kneeling beside Kimberly.
