Godslayer's Legacy: THE PATH TO SUPREMACY

The Kirean convoy resumed its journey after the ambush was dealt with, the tension lingering in the air. Though the guards maintained their disciplined vigilance, the skirmish had added an edge of unease to their movements. Lady Elaris rode at the front, her gaze fixed on the road ahead, but Rui could sense her heightened awareness even from inside the carriage.

Rui leaned back in his seat, his thoughts returning to the battle. The way the guards had moved, the precision of their strikes, and the way Elaris had commanded her aura—it was as if they were part of a carefully orchestrated dance. The more he thought about it, the more he wanted to understand.

When the convoy stopped at a clearing by a stream for a brief rest, Rui stepped out of the carriage. The guards were tending to their horses or scouting the perimeter, but Elaris stood near the water, rinsing her blade with quiet efficiency. Rui approached her, his silver eyes reflective in the midday sun.

"Captain Elaris," he began, his voice steady but curious. "You said aura is about control and focus, but in that fight… it looked like something more. Almost like you became part of the battle itself."

Elaris looked up from her task, her sharp eyes meeting his. A faint smile tugged at the corner of her lips. "You're perceptive, my lord. Aura, when mastered, can indeed feel like an extension of oneself. It's not just a tool; it's a state of being."

Rui tilted his head, intrigued. "A state of being?"

She nodded, wiping her blade clean before sheathing it. "Aura isn't just physical strength or spiritual force. It's the alignment of body, mind, and will. When you train your aura, you're not just building power—you're shaping yourself. The way you think, the way you move, the way you react… all of it becomes part of your aura."

Rui considered her words carefully. "But what about in the fight? It seemed like your aura was… protecting you. Like it was alive."

Elaris chuckled softly. "That's the result of years of practice. Aura can create a presence around its wielder, a field that enhances perception and reflexes. In higher stages, it can even deflect physical attacks or disrupt an opponent's balance. But that level of mastery doesn't come easily."

Rui's gaze sharpened. "Can anyone train in aura? Or is it something only warriors like you can do?"

Elaris regarded him thoughtfully. "Anyone with the discipline can begin to learn, but true mastery requires more than effort. Aura is a reflection of one's inner self. Some people are naturally attuned to it, while others struggle to even grasp its basics. But it's not limited to warriors. Even mages can benefit from understanding aura—though their focus often lies elsewhere."

Rui frowned slightly. "What about me? Do you think I could learn?"

Elaris studied him for a moment, her expression unreadable. "You have the curiosity and the will, my lord. That's a good start. But learning aura is a lifelong journey. It's not something you can rush."

Before Rui could respond, one of the guards approached, his expression tense. "Captain, the scouts report signs of movement ahead. It could be more bandits."

Elaris straightened immediately, her focus shifting. "We'll proceed with caution. Double the perimeter."

The guard nodded and hurried off, leaving Elaris and Rui alone once more. She glanced down at him, her stern expression softening slightly. "Stay close to the carriage, my lord. We'll ensure your safety."

Rui nodded, though his mind was already racing with thoughts of aura and the possibilities it presented. As the convoy moved out, he returned to his seat in the carriage, his silver eyes scanning the road ahead.

The journey was proving to be more than a simple transition from the estate to the capital. It was a lesson, a trial, and perhaps the beginning of something greater. Rui felt a quiet determination settle within him.

He would learn. He would grow. And he would face whatever lay ahead with the same resolve that had brought him this far.