As Asher's body tore backward through the forest, his mind snapped into clarity, consciousness surging back as if it had been shackled for years and was finally freed. Questions erupted in his mind, conclusions he had only arrived at subconsciously rising to the forefront of his awareness.
His thoughts spun in chaotic synchronization, yet within that whirlwind he felt the awakening of his deepest capabilities, the subtle, infinite connection to Astra and Star Energy, the raw flow of life and cosmic power within him, now pulsing clearly in his grasp.
The next instant, his body twisted midair, feet digging into the earth with terrifying force. Trenches carved themselves into the ground beneath him as he skidded to a halt, dust and debris flung violently into the air. Asher's gaze fell to his breastplate, now dented and caved from the pure physical force of Blue's kick. The metal had bent, but it had not broken, a single piece of forged protection standing between him and death.
