The demon inside Elara had been more active than usual ever since they entered the Gate, almost as if it were enjoying the chaos unfolding around them. At first, it was causing a stir in her mana reserves, but now it just wouldn't shut up.
Its voice echoed through her mind, taunting her between every exchange with Kaela.
'Why do you let her get in your way?'
Elara gritted her teeth as she blocked another attack.
'Why do you hold back? Is it because she's your friend?'
Another blow came crashing toward her.
Elara caught it.
The impact sent a powerful shockwave through the surrounding area, kicking up dust and debris while the unstable mana in the Gate rippled around them.
It laughed quietly inside her head.
'I mean, I somewhat like her too. She's a fun one. But you shouldn't let anyone block your path like this.'
The words dug deeper than Elara wanted to admit.
She knew the demon wasn't completely wrong, which is what made it worse.
