Godslayer's Legacy: THE PATH TO SUPREMACY

The Kirean entourage moved at a steady pace, the rhythmic clatter of hooves and the rumble of carriage wheels filling the silence of the early hour. Rui sat in his carriage, his silver eyes fixed on the passing landscape. The encounters of the previous days lingered in his mind—his conversation with the captain about aura, and the tense meeting with Leoray and Amara.

The road had grown busier as they neared the capital. Merchants, travelers, and other noble entourages filled the path, their banners fluttering in the cool breeze. Rui's carriage passed a particularly lively caravan, its occupants shouting cheerfully as they traded goods and stories. It was a stark contrast to the quiet focus within the Kirean party, their guards scanning every face and movement for any hint of danger.

By midday, the road opened up into a sprawling plain, the city of Eldoria visible in the distance. Its towering walls gleamed under the sun, the spires of the Royal Academy rising above the skyline like a crown. The sight filled Rui with a mix of anticipation and unease. This would be his first time stepping into the heart of the kingdom, away from the sheltered confines of the estate.

"We're nearing the city," Ser Alden said, riding alongside Rui's carriage. "We'll stop at the final outpost to ensure everything is in order before entering."

Rui nodded, though he didn't look away from the view. "It's larger than I imagined," he said softly.

"It's a place where ambitions either flourish or falter," Alden replied. "Be prepared for both."

The outpost was a modest settlement just outside the city gates, its primary purpose to house travelers who arrived after the gates had closed for the night. It was bustling with activity—merchants unloading their wares, soldiers patrolling the perimeter, and travelers haggling for food and lodging.

The Kirean party stopped at a quiet corner of the outpost, their presence drawing curious glances but no interruptions. The guards dismounted, ensuring the carriage and their surroundings were secure. Rui stepped out, stretching his legs as he surveyed the lively scene.

It wasn't long before a commotion near the main square caught their attention. A small crowd had gathered, murmurs of curiosity and excitement rippling through the air. Rui and Ser Alden exchanged a glance before making their way toward the noise.

In the center of the square stood a young man, his golden hair catching the sunlight as he spoke animatedly to the crowd. He was dressed in fine clothes that marked him as noble, though his relaxed posture and easy smile set him apart from the usual air of formality.

"That's Rorik Hallas," Alden murmured, his tone tinged with wariness. "The youngest son of the Hallas family. Known for his charm—and his unpredictability."

Rui's curiosity deepened as he observed Rorik. Unlike Leoray or Amara, who carried themselves with a sharp edge of ambition, Rorik seemed entirely at ease, his laughter ringing out as he regaled the crowd with tales of his exploits.

As if sensing Rui's gaze, Rorik turned, his blue eyes locking onto him. A grin spread across his face, and he raised a hand in a friendly wave. "Ah, a fellow traveler!" he called out, striding toward Rui without hesitation. "And judging by your entourage, one of noble blood."

Rui inclined his head politely. "Rui Kirean," he said, his voice steady.

"Kirean, you say?" Rorik's grin widened. "I've heard of your family. Scholars, aren't you? Always delving into the mysteries of mana and refinement. Fascinating stuff."

"And you're from the Hallas family," Rui replied. "Known for their… unpredictability."

Rorik laughed, unbothered by the veiled jab. "Ah, you've done your homework! Yes, we Hallas are a lively bunch. Keeps things interesting, wouldn't you agree?"

Rui found himself intrigued despite his initial wariness. Rorik's energy was infectious, a sharp contrast to the intensity of Leoray and Amara. Yet there was something about him that suggested his carefree demeanor was a mask, hiding depths yet to be revealed.

As the two continued to talk, Alden kept a watchful eye, his instincts on high alert. The outpost was a hub of activity, but it was also a place where alliances and rivalries could form in an instant. And with the city gates so close, the stakes felt higher than ever.

By late afternoon, the Kirean party resumed their journey, the gates of Eldoria looming ever larger as they approached. Rui sat back in his carriage, his thoughts a tangle of anticipation and unease. The encounters of the past days had given him a glimpse of the world beyond the estate—a world filled with potential allies, rivals, and dangers.

As the carriage passed through the massive gates, the noise and energy of the city enveloped them. The capital was alive with movement, its streets teeming with merchants, scholars, soldiers, and citizens from all walks of life. Rui leaned out of the window, his silver eyes wide as he took it all in.

The Royal Academy awaited, its towering spires visible above the city's rooftops. Rui felt a mix of excitement and trepidation as the carriage turned onto the path leading toward the Academy grounds. The journey was over, but his story was just beginning.