Sunlight streamed through the windows ofthe room making it's way over Danny's face, effectively waking him. He groggily sat up, rubbing his head to dispell the left over effects of the drug.

"Man, I hate being put under."

"I do, too."

Danny hadn't noticed the other man sitting on his bed until now, watching him.

"My name is Carl and I'll be roomate for the duration of your stay," he said pleasantly.

"Names Danny, and I don't plan on staying that long."

Carl looked at him curiously. "The nurse said your name was Ian."

"Well it's not. Where is the nurse, I need to talkto her." Danny stood, fighting to maintain balance.

"Down the hall to your left."

Danny nodded and walked towards the open door, staggering slightly. He had to get this mess sorted out. As he reached the door Carl called out: "There's only one way out, and you don't look like the kind that would take it." Danny didn't understand him and wasn't sure he wanted to.

Danny stepped through the door, not at all prepared for what he saw. People milled about in thehallway, shuffeling around. After a moments hesitation he set off down the corridor. A few people leered at him, but he was mostly ignored. Halfway to the nurses station he saw a doll laying on the floor and girlgazing forlornly at it, wanting it but not daring to reach for it. Danny leaned down and gently picked it up. He kneeled down beside the girl and softly asked, "Is this yours?" She nodded and he carefully handed it to her. She cautiously took it then looked up at him. Danny gave her a smile which she returned. He got to his feet and continued on his way.

He was surprised when the girl grabbed his arm, She leaned in and softly whispered one word, "Brother." Danny didn't have the heart to tell her to leave, So together they walked down the hall.

"What's your name?" He gently asked her, trying to not act like a cop. He had been on high alert since he woke up.

"Alice," came a small reply.

"Well, Alice, my name is Danny."

"Carl said your name was Ian."

"Carl is wrong."

"Be my brother?" she asked, stopping suddenly.

Danny looked down at her with every intention of saying no, but her eyes stopped him. They were lost, alone. Danny sighed.

"Yes, I'll be your brother."

For as long as I'm here I might as well make friends. Where is 'here' anyway?