Usually his dreams are fleeting, misty, wisps with softened edges dipped in grey.
But tonight is different.
Hamid Khan gleams. That's the word, gleams. He's ringed with gold and he radiates light. Not gentle light, warm and reassuring, Heaven's light sweetheart, but the kind of light that assaults you and forces you to look away.
It's like stepping into the sun after spending time in a darkened room and it leaves Cyril blinking tears away.
When Hamid smiles, Cyril shrinks.
It's not a nice smile.
Don't worry about me, he whispers, and the words echo through Cyril's mind. I'm in a better place. I'm lucky, Cyril. I escaped. I'm free. But you…you're trapped. Forever, Cyril. Forever…forever…
No, Cyril begs. Take me with you. I want to be free. Let me be free.
Never, Hamid whispers. Never, never, never…
When Cyril wakes up, he's cold but sweaty, like ice has been run over his skin. When he looks in the mirror, looks out over Emerald City, the cold seeps into his blood.
There is no light.