Chapter 49: Devil's Due

My body convulsed involuntarily, a chill running down my spine as vivid memories of the false sun flooded my mind. Holy Star replicated the purifying power of the sun to weaken the powers of demons and suppress their ability to draw on mana. I groaned as my fingers brushed my side, meeting a tender ache pulsating through my ribs - a painful reminder of the fracture I'd incurred at Davin's hands.

My heart raced, tempting me to cast Dispel Magic, but a flicker of rationale restrained the impulse. I lowered my shaking hands and took a deep breath. My skin crawled at the thought of receiving the spell, but I knew I had to face it. No second-circle spell should break me, especially not before it was even cast.