The sixth shield held. Barely.
A thin, hairline fracture ran through it, glowing with an intense white-hot fluorescence that suggested the energy was still actively crackling within. The annihilation beam dissipated just a heartbeat before the shield completely failed, the remaining energy flickering out like a dying ember. Dominic lay there, face scorched and blistered from the assault, his ears ringing loudly with a piercing, high-pitched whine that drowned out all other sounds. His sword arm trembled uncontrollably, the muscles fatigued and numb, so much so that he couldn't feel his fingers. He didn't attempt to move.
The stone floor beneath him was cold and rough against his back, pressing into his shoulders and spine. Every shallow breath sent a sharp spike of pain rippling through his ribs, making each inhalation feel like a harsh stab. The coppery taste was thick and metallic on his tongue, a sickening reminder of his injuries.
