As the Aether blasted through every seal, shattering them like fragile glass, Damon felt a sudden rush of awareness sweep through his body. The Mana Conduits, an intricate network of pathways within him, were laid bare. Some were thick and robust, while others were so minuscule that he barely noticed their presence—until the Aether began its work.
The unsealing of the largest conduits was surprisingly bearable, a mere discomfort that paled in comparison to what followed. When the Aether turned its relentless force toward the smaller conduits, Damon understood the true meaning of agony. It felt as though thousands—no, millions—of scorching needles pierced every inch of his being. His natural healing, which had always been a source of pride, was utterly overwhelmed. The damage spread faster than his body could repair, leaving him vulnerable, raw, and bleeding from every orifice.
