Crossword Genius

Write chapter in story “A Defence against Demons”? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pentacle

'a defence against demons?' is the definition.
(pentacle is a magical symbol)

'write chapter in story' is the wordplay.
'write' becomes 'pen' (synonyms).
'chapter' becomes 'c' (abbreviation).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'story' becomes 'tale' (synonyms).
'c' put into 'tale' is 'tacle'.
'pen'+'tacle'='PENTACLE'

(Other definitions for pentacle that I've seen before include "Five-pointed star or other figure used as magic symbol" , "Charm" , "Mystic symbol" , "Magic star shape" , "amulet" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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