Chapter 12 - New Paths
The silence of the forest felt denser than usual as Rygar adjusted his breathing after his morning training. He had already realized that his magic wasn't fast enough for high-speed battles, even when cast without incantation. After landing a surprise first strike, he would struggle to hit a prepared and agile warrior. Because of this, he was training to replicate what he had done in the battle against the Northern Saint, trying to reduce his magic's casting time.
As always, Verdia watched him intently, evaluating every move. The past two months spent with her had been eye-opening, not just due to the intensity of the training but also because of the stories she shared.
His mentor was far more than she appeared. Her knowledge of magic was astounding, but what truly stood out in her narratives was the weight of her adventures. Rygar discovered that she wasn't just an experienced mage; she was a King-level mage in Wind and Earth, as well as a Water Saint. According to her, she had made enemies during her ventures, and her power remained a threat to the successors of those enemies, even though she bore no grudge against them.
Despite her confidence, Verdia revealed a more human side when addressing her struggles. Rygar, in turn, shared the issue that gnawed at him internally: his lack of control over his savagery. He explained how, in moments of rage, he was on the verge of completely losing control, his rationality vanishing as his feral instincts took over. This had led him to attack his father and other warriors in the tribe. Verdia had no ready answers but promised they would find a solution together.
During the second month, Verdia brought him news. An elder elf named Ilya wished to meet him. Intrigued, Rygar followed her to an isolated clearing where the presence of the silver-haired elf was almost mystical. Her eyes carried the weight of centuries, and her voice was as calm as the whispering trees.
"You resemble your grandfather, Rygar," Ilya began, her gaze studying the young Dedoldia. "Except for your eyes, of course. Verdia told me about you. I believe my knowledge may be helpful for your problem."
"Hm? What do you mean?"
"Your struggle to control your instincts."
Ilya explained that many years ago, her mother had told her stories about the second Beast God, Giger. He, like Rygar, had faced bouts of savagery in his youth. He was the first recorded case, though there may have been others before him who didn't leave as much of an impact.
According to her, the problem wasn't uncommon among the most talented of the beast race. All those who displayed extraordinary potential faced similar challenges. She cited a personal example: Ingar Dedoldia, a warrior who had reached the rank of Emperor 600 years ago. She had been very close to this warrior during his lifetime.
"Ingar was wild as a child—I can say that because I saw him grow up from a baby," Ilya said nostalgically. "When he chose the path of the warrior, a demon passing through this area accepted him as a disciple. Years later, he returned, and his savagery had become a controlled weapon, no longer something that dominated him. Though he was still quite energetic."