With Ryoko gone, I decided to practice what she taught me. I closed my eyes and tried my best to focus on the world around me, attempting to get in touch with my senses. The familiar touch of the wind brushing through my hair, playfully tugging on the fabric of my shirt. The slightly sweet smell of earth and grass, lifted by the pollen released in the air. I could feel the faint warmth of the sun on my skin and hear the birds twitter. It was all so peaceful and yet… none of it really reached me.
All I could focus on was the brick of the wall behind me, rough and cold. Uncomfortable to lean against. Without really thinking about it, I wriggled against the stone. The discomfort grew into pain as it put pressure on my shoulders. my wounds had barely started healing and I could feel the crust
