Queen of the zodiac ( zodiac city duology #1) [ undergoing revamping]

~six~

Brooke

The throbbing pain in my head felt like a relentless drumbeat, gradually pulling me back from the darkness. My eyes fluttered open, and I found myself in an unfamiliar room bathed in a soft, soothing light. It took a moment for my groggy mind to process where I was-Zodiac Academy's sickbay.

A tall, distinguished figure in a white coat hovered nearby, scribbling notes on a clipboard. He was the alecrist, the Academy's equivalent of a doctor, known for his expertise in healing and diagnosis. His name was Dr. Merrick, and he had a reputation for being thorough.

"Ah, you're awake," Dr. Merrick greeted me with a warm, professional smile. He lowered the clipboard and approached my bedside.

I tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over me, forcing me back down. "What happened?" I managed to croak, my throat feeling parched.

Dr. Merrick adjusted his glasses, his gray eyes studying me intently. "You fainted in the library, my dear. Your shimmer and some friends brought you here."

A foggy memory of the purple floating book flashed through my mind. I decided to play it safe, not wanting to sound crazy or alarm Dr. Merrick. "I... I don't remember."

He nodded understandingly. "It's not uncommon to experience temporary memory lapses after fainting. Can you tell me how you're feeling now? Any pain, discomfort, or nausea?"

I shook my head. "I feel fine, just a little tired."

The alecrist continued to ask me a series of questions, probing for any signs of underlying issues. I decided to keep my answers vague, not wanting to reveal my encounter with the mysterious floating book. Dr. Merrick seemed satisfied with my responses and eventually excused himself, promising to return with some medication.

As I lay there, contemplating the strange turn of events, Ramon and Jamal entered the room. Their worried expressions softened when they saw me awake.

"What happened to you, Brooke?" Ramon asked, genuine concern etched on his face.

I tried to reassure them with a casual tone. "Oh, nothing, just a little dizzy spell. I'm fine now."

"You sure?" Jamal pressed, his eyebrows furrowed.

I smiled at their attentiveness. "Yeah, I promise. Thanks for being here, guys."

Ramon, ever the mood lightener, decided to change the subject. "Guess what?" he said with a mischievous grin.

I couldn't help but be intrigued. "What?"

He reached into his book bag and produced five broaches, each adorned with an intricate design. "I managed to get invitations to the party for all of you. The meeting place is Gemini Shimmerfalls."

My eyes lit up with excitement as I reached for the broaches. "Thanks, Ramon! This is fantastic!"

"Anything to make you happy" Jamal added, offering me a reassuring smile.

I couldn't help but feel grateful for their friendship in that moment. "You guys are the best," I said with a genuine smile.

But then the weight of my fever and exhaustion hit me again, and I sighed. "I've got to go, though. My head is pounding, and I feel like my body's on fire."

Ramon kissed my forehead gently. "Rest up, Brooke. We'll see you tonight at 9 pm."

I nodded, my energy waning. "Yeah, I'll be there."

Jamal hugged me before they left, his concern evident. "Brooke, you're running a fever. Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yes," I replied, though the truth was, I wasn't entirely sure.