ISSABELLE'S POV
The world is a hazy blend of light and darkness as I slowly come to consciousness. Every bone in my body ache, as though I had been trampled by horses. I try to lift my hand to shield my eyes from the light that seems too bright but find the strength lacking.
A flurry of movement catches my attention, blurred figures rush about the room. There is the scent of antiseptic, the clatter of metal and the low murmur of voices.
"She's awake!" A cry startles me, a voice I don't recognize, slightly muffled and distant.
An elderly face appears above my face, a man with a beard. I am vaguely aware that he is talking to me, but his words sound like a distant echo, hard to decipher.
"Where am I?" My voice sound raspy, barely more than a whisper. My throat is dry, each word a strug
