Suddenly, my head felt foggy, and my vision blurred.
I tried to steady myself, planting my hands on the ground and pushing up, but the dizziness slammed into me even harder. My arms gave out, and I collapsed again.
Somewhere beyond the haze, I heard Grey chuckle. He said something, but the words were distant, like they were being spoken underwater.
I rolled onto my back and shut my eyes.
My entire body felt heavy. Weak. I couldn't even form a clear thought. I tried to reach for Essence, even just a thread of it but it was like trying to grip air with broken fingers. No focus. No control.
And then….nothing.
The world slipped away, and I lost consciousness.
*****
My fingers twitched, and my mind suddenly snapped awake. I opened my eyes and took a deep breath, but all I saw was darkness.
Then the memories came rushing back.
