Uijae jolted upright. Something damp and heavy slipped off him, but he had no time to care. He rubbed his face and blinked repeatedly, but no light appeared. Nothing but darkness.

‘My eyes…’

He touched his lips, a sinking realization dawning on him. Could this be the penalty? How long would it last? Was it temporary… or permanent? He reached around, feeling the soft, heavy fabric beneath him and the warmth of the floor—likely a blanket. As he continued groping, his hand closed around something damp and lukewarm.

‘A towel?’

He stretched the towel out. Someone must have tended to him. No wonder his forehead felt damp earlier. After wiping the back of his neck, Uijae carefully folded the towel and set it aside. At least his powers had returned despite losing his sight—he could vividly sense the movements outside the room. His fever and the crushing pain were gone, too.

“…”

He let out a quiet sigh before opening his eyes wide.