Arthur hit the ground hard, the impact forcing what little air remained in his lungs out in a pained gasp. Every nerve in his body screamed in protest, his muscles spasming uncontrollably. All his hair stood firm as if pulled by invisible strings, and his skin tingled with residual electricity that danced across his flesh. The world spun around him, thunder still echoing in his ringing ears.
The shock was delayed as he tried to get his bearings, his mind struggling to process what had just happened. His vision swam, darkness threatening to claim him, but he fought against unconsciousness with stubborn determination. Soon enough, he used what little strength he had left to prop himself up on trembling elbows, then push into a sitting position to see what had happened to Aziel.
