Escape (3)

Taking a deep breath, I gathered my mana, enveloping myself in its protective energy. I steadied my nerves and focused on the task ahead, knowing that perfect timing was crucial.

'NOW!'

And then, with a burst of speed, I dashed forward, crossing the invisible barrier of the wards.

As expected, the formations activated immediately, their lines flaring with energy. An electric current surged through my body, painful and jarring, making me limp for a split second.

"Gah!" I gritted my teeth, forcing myself to push through the pain.

The mana coating my body absorbed most of the shock, allowing me to recover quickly.

'As expected, the formations can only affect the Awakened of Second-Stage.'

That was the reason why I had dared to take the risk. And just as I had expected, it came in handy at this moment.

I could hear the shouts of the patrol behind me, their voices rising in alarm.

"Someone's escaping!"