Chapter Twenty-Two

Harry and Michael arrive at St. Mary of the Angels amid agonized screams. Father Forthill leads them to the chapel, where Brotherhood member Robert suffers cyclical relief within the holy space. Harry senses a greasy coil of black magic and recognizes a barbed-wire pain curse like one he encountered years ago.

Dr. Brazell explains Robert collapsed at sundown during ghoul patrol. Harry confirms drugs won’t help and requests a holy fire. As Michael and the Brotherhood assemble a brazier from a shield, old pews, and holy oil, Harry prepares, warning Brazell to restrain Robert if needed. He explains the curse is likely mortal sorcery, possibly knowledge surviving from Leonid Kravos.

With the fire ready and Robert nearing another seizure, Harry uses focused will to seize the curse, carefully unwinding the barbed-wire coil from Robert’s chakras to avoid damaging his mind and soul. He casts the thrashing curse into the holy fire; the flames surge silver-white as the dark magic screams and dies, leaving only ordinary smoke. Exhausted but successful, Harry confirms Robert should recover gradually.

Outside, Harry and Michael assess the implications: someone used mortal black magic to attack the Brotherhood. Harry promises to investigate after rest; Michael will pursue leads from his end. They plan to meet in two days to compare notes, marking a new investigative front.