Dragon's Ruin

"The power in our blood — what you called a Body Refinement method — is known by many names," Crassus began, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "Some call it a blessing, a bloodline, or a legacy. But those who know better call it by a different name — the Dragon's Ruin."

"The Dragon's Ruin?" Arran frowned as he heard the name. "Does that mean it's harmful?"

"Far from it," Crassus said, a bitter smile on his face. "The Ruin will allow your body to grow stronger than most mages would think possible, helping you absorb strength without any effort whatsoever. And not just that — it will protect you against poisons and other harmful influences."

"Then why call it that?" Arran asked.

"Because it eventually ruins all of us," Crassus replied. "Many mages long to have this power for themselves, and sooner or later, we all fall to them. It's a fate no dragon escapes forever — in the end, all dragons are slain by mages."