The system flashed angrily in Ethan's vision, urgent red warnings filling up the screen.
[WARNING:
Attempting to absorb this energy forcefully may result in critical system failure.
Severe damage to the host body is imminent.
Proceeding is not advised.]
Ethan gritted his teeth.
He knew the risks. He understood what the system was trying to say.
But he didn't care.
Selene was out there. He had no time to be careful.
With a defiant snarl, Ethan pushed his trembling hand forward again, fingertips brushing the swirling core of energy.
A crackling sound echoed through the chamber—and a sharp, blinding pain shot through his arm.
He gasped as he saw it—fine fractures racing along his skin like breaking porcelain, splitting down his wrist and crawling up toward his shoulder.
His body was coming apart.
But still, he refused to let go.
Just as another sharp crack tore down his arm, a familiar voice cut through the air, desperate and pained.
"Stop, you fool!"
