Fortunately, it had been Alric's intention to observe and respond, rather than leaping forward face-first into the unknown... and simply absorbing that power, though, was definitely not something he'd anticipated. It raised some questions about how effective he'd be, as well, but they'd just have to put that to the test.

Holding back did at least bought him a moment to respond to Reimu's suggestion, and suspecting it was a wise one, shifted toward a defensive posture--bracing himself and raising his arms before his face just in time to weather that shockwave, although it sent him skidding back and nearly staggering with the impact. He kept his feet, at least, a violet arc or two dancing over his hands as he lowered them, glancing quickly toward Reimu, then turning his attention back to their opponent.

"Knh..! I do hope you've got a plan 'B'."