She marched forward, reached into her robe, and pulled out her mother's amulet. Shedah the crone had brought the silver charm home from the north, proof of Queen Anai's death. Upon its round surface appeared an engraving of Taal, the god of purity—a slender man, his arms held at his sides, his palms open. It was a symbol of goodness, of light and hope. To Issari, it was also a symbol of her mother. She shook in the presence of this evil, but she held the amulet out before her.

"Stand back, demons!" she cried.

In her hand, the amulet burst into light.

The demons squealed. The inverted creatures stumbled back, covering their bulging, bloodshot eyes. One's liver burst, showering blood.

"The light burns!" they cried, shattering, organs ripping. "How can she burn us? Who is the seraph?"

Issari took a step forward, the amulet thrumming in her hand, casting its light.

"This was the amulet of Queen Anai of Eteer!" she cried out. "She ruled the throne that rises above your underground lair. From this relic shines the light of Taal, a god greater than your mistress." She took another step, and the light intensified, bleaching the world. "By this light and blood, I banish you!"

The demons screamed. Their bones snapped. Whimpering, they fled behind several brick houses, leaving a trail of gore and a lingering stench.

Issari breathed out in relief. She lowered the amulet, and its light dimmed. Her legs trembled and sweat dripped down her back.

Her father had traveled north a few days ago, following the crone's map, seeking Laira in the cold hinterlands. Issari had only this amulet for protection—a guard against the demons he had freed, a shard of holiness, a gift from her mother.

"I was only a babe when you left, Mother," she whispered. "And you're gone now. But still you watch over me."

Fingers shaking, she tucked the amulet back under her tunic.

"All flesh is theirs to claim," King Raem had said before leaving. He had stroked her hair. "All but yours. Stay in your chambers. Do not tempt them. They are forbidden to enter your room."

Yet Issari had left her sanctuary. She could not remain in her palace as her city bled. The people of Eteer needed her. How could she stay in safety while they suffered?

Still trembling, she approached the fallen woman.

"Rise, friend," Issari said, reaching down a hand to the woman. "You are safe."

The woman rose, clutching her tattered tunic to her nakedness. Issari wore a veil of tasseled silk and a hood hid her hair; only her eyes were visible. To all, she looked like a simple priestess, not the Princess of Eteer.

"Thank you." The woman wiped away tears. "Bless you, daughter. Bless you."