Arrows of Time - Kim Falconer [173]
Jarrod opened his eyes to see Hotha staring at him. The Lupins honour you, my gorgeous one. You’re their queen too.
Hotha! I still don’t quite understand the connection, she said.
There’s time for that later, Jarrod said. Just be glad they’re here.
It is strong energy, isn’t it?
The chanting amplified. Drayco’s purring grew in volume as well. Hotha stood at her head, one hand on her brow and one under her cranium. He mouthed words in yet another tongue, weaving them in and out of the droning chant. A crack of lightning turned the hall blue-white, followed immediately by a shattering boom. There was a palpable gasp before the chanting continued. Again and again, the hall lit up and the zing and crack of the thunder sounded, louder and closer each time.
‘Now, Jarrod,’ Kreshkali said, lifting her eyes to the ceiling.
Jarrod placed his hands over Rosette’s heart. The energy amplified and he drew it in. Like a whirlpool he sucked it into his solar plexus, preparing for the next blast. Kali and Teg threw their arms skyward and a hole in the ceiling opened, the roof melting like burning plastic as the lightning flashed. The hall blazed white with the deafening sear and zap. Jarrod felt the force of the bolt pass through him straight to Rosette’s heart. It hit the metal plate and bounced back, hurling him across the hall, knocking down those in his path like empty milk bottles. The shockwave blasted the temple doors and rolled under the floorboards.
Jarrod couldn’t see for some time. His vision was like static on a broadcast monitor, crackling with interference. His ears were ringing and his limbs shook. Strong hands gripped him, helping him to sit. From the corner of his eye he could just see Selene, and Shane and Teg as well. He kept trying to focus, scrunching his eyes and relaxing, but blackness masked the centre of his vision. He knew there was a world out there, but it wasn’t registering. He felt the vibration of voices around him, yet no distinct sounds, no words, formed in his mind.
The scent of sweet herbs engulfed him. Cool hands touched his face. Annadusa was looking after him now. He could tell by the aura he was able to sense. He tried to push her away. Let me see Rosette, he said. No sound came out. Why were they focused on him when they should be helping her? Was she back in her body? A hand clasped his shoulder and he shrugged it off, gathering his strength to stand. Rosette?
Someone was crying. It sounded far off, like a child in the distance. He felt his heart racing, erratic beats that pounded against his breastbone.
‘Deep breaths, Jarrod. Easy. There’s no rush. It’s okay. Take your time.’ Finally, he heard Annadusa and others around him.
‘But Rosette…’ His voice was like an old man’s. He cleared his throat and tried again. ‘How’s Rosette?’
It’s all right, Jarrod. Relax.
‘Drayco! Where are you? I can’t see properly.’
Stop struggling, Jarrod. Your mind’s like an ant’s nest. I’m here to help, but you have to breathe deeply.
Annadusa was tapping his body here and there, on his fingertips and head, opening blocked channels. He felt the energy flow increase, like unclogging a dam. His vision cleared and the hall came slowly into focus. The dark blotches in the centre of his vision dissipated.
The candles were burning brightly, wax dripping down the sticks. The bards were playing an ambient tune with low whistles and guitars, the music sweet and light. People were everywhere, all smiling, their auras vivid. He touched his chest and winced. The smell of burnt flesh rose to his nostrils.
‘You took quite a jolt, my lad. How’s the tulpa holding up?’
He stared at Kreshkali. ‘Rosette?’
‘Come. You’ll need to see for yourself.’
He made his way towards the altar, supported by Shane and Kreshkali. He could glimpse Drayco; he was standing over Rosette, his forepaws on either side of her head. She didn’t move. The big cat leaned closer until his nose touched hers. Still no response, until a pale hand lifted. Everyone held their