Godslayer's Legacy: THE PATH TO SUPREMACY

The journey to the capital began under a sky painted in soft hues of dawn, the light filtering through the dense canopy of trees lining the road. Rui sat inside the finely crafted carriage, its exterior adorned with the subtle crest of the Kireans—a symbol that spoke of refinement rather than ostentation. The interior was furnished with cushions and rich fabric, offering a level of comfort befitting nobility.

Outside, the rhythmic clatter of hooves against the cobblestone road provided a steady backdrop to the occasional chirping of birds. Flanking the carriage were six guards, each mounted on sturdy warhorses and dressed in the muted armor of the Kirean household. Their eyes scanned the surroundings with practiced vigilance, their swords and lances glinting faintly in the morning light.

Rui leaned against the window, his silver eyes watching the trees blur past. The sense of unease that had lingered at the estate had not fully left him. He could still hear the quiet tension in his mother's voice and see the weight in his father's gaze. This journey, for all its outward appearance of routine, was not without risk.

---

By mid-afternoon, the party arrived at a bustling village nestled along the main trade route. The village was modest but lively, its cobblestone streets lined with shops and stalls offering everything from fresh produce to finely woven fabrics. Children darted between carts, their laughter mingling with the shouts of merchants hawking their wares.

The Kirean entourage drew attention as they entered. Villagers paused in their tasks, their eyes following the polished carriage and the mounted guards. It was rare for nobility to pass through, and rarer still for them to stop.

The village inn, a sturdy two-story building with a weathered sign that read "The Golden Hearth," had been prepared in advance. As the carriage came to a halt, the innkeeper rushed forward, bowing deeply. "Welcome, my lord," he said, his voice a mix of reverence and nervousness. "Your rooms have been prepared."

Rui stepped out of the carriage, his young figure commanding attention despite his age. His silver eyes swept over the gathering crowd, offering a polite nod to those who bowed or curtsied. Behind him, the guards dismounted, their presence a quiet but firm deterrent to any who might harbor ill intent.

The inn's interior was warm and inviting, the scent of roasted meat and spiced wine filling the air. A fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows across the wooden beams of the ceiling. Rui's guards ensured the rooms were secure before allowing him to settle in for the evening.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the village in hues of orange and purple, the Kirean entourage dined in a private room. Rui listened quietly as the captain of his guard, a seasoned warrior named Ser Alden, discussed the route ahead. "The road to the capital is well-patrolled," Alden said, his deep voice steady. "But it's not without its dangers. Bandits are rare, but not unheard of. We'll be vigilant."

Rui nodded, his young mind turning over the possibilities. He was no stranger to the idea of danger, but the reality of it felt closer now, more tangible.

---

Later that evening, Rui found himself unable to sleep. The room was comfortable, the bed warm, but his mind was restless. He rose quietly, wrapping himself in a cloak, and moved to the window. The village was quiet now, the streets illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The guards stationed outside the inn were shadows against the pale light of the moon, their movements deliberate and watchful.

For the first time since his departure, Rui felt the weight of the journey settle on his shoulders. The estate, for all its restrictions, had been a place of safety and familiarity. Out here, the world felt vast and uncertain.

A faint knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts. "Enter," Rui called softly.

Ser Alden stepped inside, his expression neutral but his eyes sharp. "Can't sleep, my lord?"

Rui shook his head. "Too much on my mind."

Alden nodded, stepping closer but maintaining a respectful distance. "It's natural. The first step away from home is always the hardest. But you have nothing to fear. We're here to see you safely to the capital."

Rui met the man's gaze, his silver eyes steady. "It's not fear," he said quietly. "It's… responsibility. I know this journey is more than just reaching the capital."

Alden regarded him for a moment before giving a small nod. "You're wise beyond your years, my lord. But remember, even the strongest warriors need rest. The road ahead is long."

Rui offered a faint smile. "I'll try."

As Alden left, Rui returned to the window, his gaze lingering on the quiet village below. The journey was just beginning, and with it, a path that felt both daunting and inevitable.