Faint red tendrils drifted from Gralith's body, writhing more and more violently as they gathered around his shoulders and arms. His clothes were torn in several places, and the Aether in his body was clearly unstable. Yet his expression stayed almost unnaturally calm.
Ekear had seen that expression countless times. Even when their Scorpion Lineage faced destruction, Gralith had rarely let his emotions interfere with his decisions. But that didn't make the sight in front of him any easier to accept.
Ekear took a step forward, his Will beginning to gather. "Master, let me—"
"Stay back."
Gralith's voice was quiet, but Ekear stopped immediately.
The older man wiped the blood from his lips and looked up at the figures hovering over the courtyard.
"You're the leader of these people now, Ekear. You shouldn't have to involve yourself in every little disagreement."
Ekear's expression darkened. "This isn't a little disagreement."
