Chapter one hundred and twenty three

Zach’s POV

Fog and shadows swirled at the edges of my consciousness as I slowly emerged from the deep slumber that had claimed me for so long.

Muffled voices and muted footsteps echoed distantly, registering as a confusing buzz in my muddled state.

What was going on? I thought to myself as I struggled to stay awake, not to be climbed back by the darkness.

Groans escaped chapped lips as I fought to peel crusty eyelids open, flickering vision struggling to adjust to blinding daylight after so many days closed in darkness.

Blinking away gritty tears, blurred shapes began moving above my vulnerable form.

Familiar designs and furnishings came into hazy focus, confirming I was still within the sanctuary of my palace chambers.

Yet an uncustomary hustle and bustle made the usual stillness different, an edge of tension lacing about the tones from beyond my limited view.

Who was running about? And what was seriously going on? At least I knew where I was but it didn’t change the fact that I