Chapter 109. A Reminder
Yuki. Northern Water Tribe.
After calming my family, I was overwhelmed by both physical and mental exhaustion. The battle had been brief, but I'd had to focus on too many things at once. I had to keep Koh confined to our makeshift arena to avoid damaging structures and harming people. I constantly had to release the excess heavy energy of Tui and La outward. All the while, I had to track the enemy's movements.
The next morning, I woke to pain I couldn't pinpoint; it seemed to come from everywhere. For years, I hadn't pushed myself to such extremes. It was an interesting experience, as I knew that overloading the spiritual body weakens the wielder, leaving them unable to even get out of bed.
In my case, my mixed nature played a role. My channels and source have long been merging with my physical body, so spiritual ailments affect me more profoundly. Plus, the channels run through nearly sixty percent of my body, allowing me to manipulate the elements without relying on stances or movements. Still, some motions are necessary when creating and controlling the white flame or applying techniques to earth vibrations.
"Have you calculated the damage from our fight yet?" I asked my father, lying in bed. Beside me stood a tall table with documents that only the acting Chief of the Tribe could sign.
"Yes, we've tallied it all," Arnuk nodded, walking to the room's only window. It overlooked the square in front of the Palace, where several groups of wielders were now restoring the area. Even ice infused with energy couldn't compare to the power of an ancient spirit, whose mere presence could melt frozen water.
"So, why are you quiet?" I asked, glancing at him.
"I think I finally understand what you've been saying about spirits," he replied thoughtfully, turning to me. "Before, I didn't fully believe in their omnipotence—they always seemed so distant. But yesterday, I saw how one spirit could erase our entire history. It completely shatters my old view of the world," he finished with a bitter chuckle. "Sorry for doubting you earlier. Now I truly support all your reforms!"
Yes, my father hadn't opposed my policies, but he hadn't fully embraced them either, thinking I was too hasty.
"It's fine, Father," I shook my head. "What about the losses?"
"Strangely, only Tsumi was lost yesterday," he said. "Many were lightly injured—the battle's aftermath caused minor earthquakes, and people weren't prepared. Your quick actions saved countless lives. I'm proud of you!" Arnuk finished, his gaze saying, "What else could I expect from my son?"