I try to scream, but my lungs are filled with smoke.My ears are ringing, and I realize I can barely hear. It hurts to think. My hands are numb, my face bruised and battered.I must have been in an accident. Maybe a car crash on the Megaway. It’s all a blank. My memory has been shattered like a smashed mirror.I dare to open my eyes again, and the brightness causes a fresh surge of pain. But I manage to get on all fours.What has happened to me?I raise a trembling hand and touch my forehead. The skin feels raw. Singed and blistered. I’m beyond terror now. I just want to lie down until the pain goes away.But something inside won’t let me give up. I push up with both hands, like an animal rising to its haunches.When I finally get my eyes to stay open, I’m looking at large green leaves and dense, lush foliage. This is obviously not New Providence, where everything is industrial and utilitarian. This place is tropical. I crouch for a moment, then manage to stand on shaky legs, trying to push past my pain and confusion.Everywhere I look are ropy vines, exotic trees with intertwined branches, and neon pink and blue flowers.
