With the sudden press of cold metal to such a sensitive spot, Alexei went still.
There were no spirits shrieking through the air, no strange windstorms slapping at their faces.
The Eldwernay's Red Shore had become quiet.
Elijah's eyes fixed on the charm. It was dull now, its power slipping away. The spirit that had clung to it had fled as well.
When his focus had slipped earlier, worrying over Alexei, that vindictive soul had found its chance to take a sneaky look at his inner world.
This one had been a high-level spirit — nothing like the weaker entities that were following its order.
While leaving, it had left a perfect gift for Elijah that might possibly get him killed.
"I threw that chain away after the exorcism. You can check the dustbin truck if you want," Elijah's voice was calm as if reciting scripture. "And I'll cure them for you without any charges."
He tilted his chin toward the men gnawing their own arms, tearing at their skin.
