[ That nets him an actual grin. Who is she to refuse open curiosity? ]

Hmm. No, I don't recall a point in-between, so to speak. It did hurt—rather badly—and then there was darkness. After which I awoke in a mess of crystals, much as I'm sure you did. I would liken it to being knocked unconscious, if messier.

[ Wait. ]

...actually, no. There was something. After losing consciousness, I believe I had the...impression of a presence. It was brief, but foreboding. After that, nothing.