Jack had been having the worst dream of his life. Something about an old guy, an envelope, and a sharp pain ripping through him. He would soon discover it wasn't a dream when he woke up. His eyes opened slowly to take in the bright light reflected off the walls and ceiling. Jack closed them again and took a deep breath. This isn't real, it can't be. The room smelled clean and slightly of flowers, causing Jack to open his eyes again and turn his head on the pillow. On the night stand was a simple vase with a white poppy. Sleep, my bane, he thought, remembering the plants' meaning. "How appropriate", he murmured before finally sitting up and taking in the room.
There was a cabinet, a chair, a lamp and window. Most of which was blue and boring. Jack decided that there had to more things of interest in this place and headed for the door. If anything, perhaps he could discover who brought him here or why. My bosses? he mused. Possible but sending the old man was odd of them, since Jack usually spoke to them face to face. But they have their secrets, Jack added grimly as he turned the door handle.
There were voices in the hallway. Jack followed the noise and came upon a small group of people. Strangers all of them but alive and seemingly human. Souls to collect? he wondered silently. Cautiously, he spoke out loud in a calm but curious voice.
"Hi, my name is Jack Ferriman. Anyone care to tell me where I am?"