James felt terrifying power rush toward him, snaking through the Crepe Myrtle Divine Sword and into his body.

Overwhelmed by the force, he took a step backward.

Daereth retracted his sword, looked at James, and smirked. “That’s enough. You may proceed.”

James shook off the numbness in his arm, then put away the Crepe Myrtle Divine Sword. He clasped his hands together and said, “Thank you.”

Afterward, he continued ascending Mount Divine Sword.

Melinda followed closely behind him.

After walk