Chapter 22 - Scars
Fendrel had departed from the tribe the day before, his absence leaving a quiet void in the village. Many had gathered to bid him farewell, their voices filled with encouragement and bittersweet pride. Alongside him was Erina, her determination matching his as they set off together. Their departure was a reminder of the paths that lay beyond the safety of the Great Forest, paths that not all could walk but which some were destined to follow.
The clearing was bathed in the morning sunlight filtering through the treetops. The crackling sound of flames echoed as Rygar swung his sword, now imbued with fire. The heat around him was intense, yet he remained focused, controlling each flicker of the flame as if it were an extension of his own body.
Verdia stood a few steps away, watching him intently. "Your control keeps improving. With your ability to summon flames at will, few opponents will be able to stand against you now."
Rygar reduced the intensity of the fire, adjusting it until it became a thin, steady layer along the blade. "I can maintain it throughout a battle, but I still need to fine-tune the timing."
"Good. Your talent has always leaned more toward fire and earth magic. It's a shame I only know advanced-level fire spells," his master commented.
Rygar gave a faint smile, a challenging gleam in his eyes. "My control over fire has already surpassed wind. Earth is close behind, too." He raised his hand, and a translucent barrier formed beside him, solid and well-structured. "I can now cast at least one intermediate barrier spell without chanting."
Verdia nodded. "Though your aptitude for barriers lags slightly, that's only in comparison to your other spells. Your progress is still remarkable."
Before he could reply, the sound of footsteps echoed in the distance. Warriors began emerging from the forest, armed and prepared for combat.
Among them, Hontar stepped forward. He looked directly at Rygar, his expression serious. "Are you ready?" he asked firmly.
Rygar didn't hesitate. He sheathed his sword, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Always."
Hontar's lips curved into a faint, proud smile. He raised an arm, signaling the warriors around him. "Let's see what you're capable of."