CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR

In my frozen state, I remain. The fear of reality stings and mocks me. Not moving, I remain firmly rooted.

"Urgh." I hear a soft groan.

No matter how faint, I bet I would recognize Hendrix's voice from miles away. Startled, I race into the room even though it's just a few steps from me.

"Crap." Hendrix swings his arm, nursing his little finger.

For a moment, I shut my eyes, shooting words of thanks to the moon goddess. I pull him to myself, exhausting all that's left of my energy.

He lets me, aware of how scared I am. With his good hand, he strokes my hair, smoothing the length.

"What happened to you?" I speak for the first time since my entry.

"I can't even explain it." He grimaces. "When I swung the weapon at him, it just happened. Perhaps it's the force I applied, or..."