When I attempt to open my eyes they feel sore and irritated, I attempt to flutter open one eyelid but nothing happens. I grunt with my face down into the pillow, having no idea where I am or why I feel so achy and rigid. But I feel barely any pain.

Am I out of that cellar? Or have I died and gone straight to hell?

I try to part my mouth and lick my lips but my tongue feels like stinging nettles, sliced and dry. My brows pull together as I open my eyes another go, physically feeling the crustiness of my bottom lid.

My jaw tenses and I...