Godslayer's Legacy: THE PATH TO SUPREMACY

The second day of the journey unfolded under a sky streaked with pale clouds, the sun casting a soft golden glow over the rolling landscape. Rui had spent the morning quietly observing the world outside the carriage window, but as the day wore on, the rhythmic clatter of hooves and the gentle sway of the carriage grew monotonous. Restlessness gnawed at him, and he decided to step out and ride alongside the guards.

Captain Kaelrin, a tall and imposing figure with sharp features and a commanding presence, raised an eyebrow as Rui approached. She slowed her horse slightly, allowing the young noble to ride beside her on the smaller steed provided for him.

"Restless already?" Kaelrin asked, her tone a mix of amusement and curiosity.

Rui gave a small shrug. "I've had enough of the carriage for now. Besides, I wanted to ask you something."

Kaelrin's gaze sharpened. "Oh? What's on your mind, young master?"

Rui hesitated for a moment before speaking. "You and the others… you don't use magic, but you're strong. I've seen how you move, how you fight during training exercises. How do you do it?"

Kaelrin smirked faintly, her hand resting on the pommel of her sword. "You've been watching us, then. Good. Observation is the first step to understanding."

Rui tilted his head, waiting for her to elaborate.

Kaelrin's expression grew more serious. "What you've noticed is aura—a strength that comes from within. Unlike magic, which relies on the flow of external mana, aura is tied to the body, the mind, and the will. It's the essence of a warrior."

"Aura?" Rui repeated, intrigued.

Kaelrin nodded. "It's the life force that flows through every living thing. Warriors like me train to awaken and refine it, shaping it into a force that enhances our physical abilities. It allows us to strike harder, move faster, and endure longer than ordinary people."

Rui furrowed his brow, considering her words. "So, it's like magic, but… internal?"

"In a sense," Kaelrin said. "But aura is more than just power. It reflects who you are. Your discipline, your determination, your essence—those things shape your aura. A warrior's aura is as much a part of them as their body or mind."

"Can anyone learn to use it?" Rui asked, his curiosity growing.

Kaelrin glanced at him, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips. "Most people have the potential for aura, but few ever awaken it. It takes years of discipline and training to refine. Even among those who awaken it, there are levels of mastery."

"What kind of levels?" Rui pressed.

Kaelrin straightened in her saddle, her gaze turning thoughtful. "Aura mastery is often categorized into seven levels. The first is the Awakening—a point where the individual becomes aware of their aura and learns to channel it. From there, each level builds upon the last, with greater control and refinement. At the higher levels, a warrior can push their body to impossible limits or manifest their aura as a tangible force."

"And you?" Rui asked, looking at her with a hint of challenge in his silver eyes. "What level are you?"

Kaelrin chuckled softly. "You're bold to ask that, young master. Let's just say I've spent many years refining my aura. Enough to keep you safe on this journey."

Rui wasn't satisfied with her vague answer, but he didn't press further. Instead, he asked, "What's the difference between aura and magic? Why don't more people use both?"

Kaelrin's expression darkened slightly. "It's not that simple. Magic requires focus and an attunement to mana. Aura demands discipline and physical conditioning. Combining the two… well, it's rare. Most people can only dedicate themselves fully to one path. Even those who try to master both often find themselves limited."

Rui nodded slowly, his mind turning over her words. "But it's possible?"

"It is," Kaelrin admitted. "But those who achieve it are few and far between. To balance magic and aura requires more than talent—it demands a will of iron and years of relentless effort."

For a moment, Rui was silent, his gaze distant. Then he looked at Kaelrin with quiet determination and slight smirk.

"I want to learn."

Kaelrin blinked, momentarily caught off guard by his straightforwardness. Then she smiled—a rare, genuine expression. "You're ambitious, I'll give you that. But don't think it'll be easy."

"I don't expect it to be," Rui said simply. "I just want to understand."

Kaelrin studied him for a moment, then gave a nod. "Very well. I'll teach you the basics. But remember, this is just the beginning. The road to mastering aura is long and unforgiving."

Rui's lips curved into a faint smile. "I wouldn't want it any other way."

As the two continued to ride side by side, Kaelrin began to explain the fundamental exercises for sensing and channeling aura. Rui listened intently, his young mind absorbing every word. The journey to the capital had taken on a new meaning—one of discovery, challenge, and growth.