Chapter 8 - 08 - Limits of Magic, Prelude to the Storm
The day was clear, but something in the air felt heavy. The Doldia village, always busy and welcoming, seemed different to Rygar. As he walked along the trails that cut through the huts, he felt the gazes. Many were still warm looks of recognition and admiration, but there were also cautious, even distrustful, glances.
Since the incident during the patrol, when his instincts overtook him and he attacked one of his allies, the respect he had earned began to crumble. Although the attack hadn't caused serious harm, the act itself was enough to plant doubts in the tribe's mind.
He wasn't blaming them, though. He had always managed to stay in control, but lately, he wasn't as sure. He was more afraid of losing his rationality than they were.
While his thoughts tormented him, he spotted Gyes in the distance, standing near one of the watchtowers. The chief of the warriors stared at him with a serious expression. When their gazes met, Gyes gestured for him to come over.
Rygar approached without saying anything. Gyes led him to a more secluded spot, where no one would overhear them. The silence between the two was heavy, and Gyes finally broke it, his voice firm:
"Rygar, can we talk?" Gyes asked, bluntly.
The young man nodded, feeling the weight of the words even before hearing them.
Gyes looked at him with a mix of respect and concern.
"I heard from Garu about your incident. This is not something to be taken lightly..."
"I know." Rygar's voice was a whisper. "It felt like I couldn't think, like my body was moving on its own."
Gyes sighed, crossing his arms.