The terrifying maw gaped wide, and Alaric froze. A paralyzing fear seized him; this couldn't be happening. A flood of frantic thoughts crashed through his mind.
Why is this beast attacking me?
Isn't killing forbidden in the city?
Why is this happening to me?
Then, deep within his soul, the Celestial Lily stirred. It began to rotate gently, emanating a tranquil aura that washed over him. In that single, breathtaking instant, the panic
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