Novel Twists

 

Andy tried to open his eyes. Searing pain forced him to close them again with a grimace. He attempted to lift his head, but the effort required was too great. Instead he decided he would remain motionless for a moment, and try to fathom his predicament. Battling against pains that seemed to pulse from every muscle in his body, and with his vision temporarily unavailable, Andy endeavoured to focus his remaining senses.
He was sitting on a chair. That much he knew for sure. His hands were bound behind his back, and the coarse rope had cut a deep trench in his wrists. His shirt, trousers and shoes felt damp. Whether this was due to sweat, rain or blood, Andy didn't know, but he definitely tasted blood in his mouth. A clawing, acrid smell hung in the air. It reminded him of burning hair, and would slightly choke him if he took too deep a breath. An occasional faint dripping sound, like that of a leaking tap, echoed back from walls that seemed too close.
For a brief moment, a memory flickered in his mind. Images of himself as a youth, exploring deep, dark caves. Of water weeping from the stalactites into those little dark pools beneath. Of gazing into those sheltered pools for hours. For a brief moment, he felt free.
He did not panic easily, but he assured himself that his current situation was certainly cause for more than a little concern. His pain was intense but he decided he must urge himself to open his eyes and attempt to gain a greater knowledge of his surroundings. Calling on all his mental reserves, Andy forced his mind to prepare for any of the infinite possible sights that would await him. Tortuously, he slowly opened his eyes.
Nothing could have prepared him for what he witnessed.