The brightness of the sun pierced through Kallen's closed eyelids, forcing a frown onto his face. He groaned in his sleep, shifting slightly before reluctantly stirring awake.
A harsh warmth settled over his skin, and the noise of the howling wind, drifted into his ears.
Squinting, he raised a hand to shield his eyes, peeking between his fingers in confusion.
"Oh? You're finally awake. Good, good."
A gruff voice rumbled above him.
Kallen turned his head toward the source but immediately flinched away. The sheer brightness of the sun made his vision blur, spots dancing before his eyes.
"It's midday already," the voice spoke again, patient but firm.
Blinking rapidly, Kallen forced himself to adjust. He slowly pushed himself upright, ignoring the dull aches in his body, and turned toward the speaker.
A rounded figure stood before him.
Man? No, his skin was green, his hair a wild mane, thick and untamed. His eyes were small and beady, glinting with an amused sharpness.
