Pero had been hurt. Terribly hurt. The attacker came from nowhere and struck him in the side, leaving him for dead. But he wasn't going to give into death that easily. He managed to haul himself to his horse and ride to the nearest town, stumbling into the hospital. Words were slurred and movements frantic, but he managed to get himself help before he passed out.

Hours later, he awoke in a comfortable bed, garbed in the classic hospital gown. His side felt numb and his head fuzzy, but he sat up anyway. He had to locate his gear before he did anything. Those were his prized possessions. He needed them. He needed them back. Pulling out of the bed, his bare feet made contact with the cold floor. He shivered, but moved toward the door anyway.

Naturally, three steps out of his room, he was stopped by a nurse.