Chapter 13: Forging the Blade of Fire

The embers of the wraith still smoldered on the battlefield as Ren steadied his breathing. The battle had drained him, but the exhilaration of victory burned within his chest. He had taken his first step in wielding Soulfire in combat, but he knew it was far from enough.

Lady Kagura observed him with a sharp gaze. "You fought well, but your technique lacks refinement. You wield Soulfire like a blunt weapon. It's time you learned to forge it into a blade."

She turned and gestured for him to follow. Ren complied, his legs still aching from the fight. They walked deeper into the training grounds until they reached an ancient forge, its stone walls engraved with runes that pulsed faintly with residual energy.

In the center of the forge stood an anvil, upon which rested a blade—a katana, its edge shimmering with an eerie blue glow.

"This," Kagura said, "is the Soulforged Blade. It is a relic from warriors who mastered Soulfire before you. It is not yours to wield, but it serves as a lesson. A blade is an extension of the swordsman, just as Soulfire is an extension of your will. If you cannot mold your fire into a weapon as sharp and precise as this, you will never reach your full potential."

Ren nodded, determination flaring in his eyes. "Then teach me."

Kagura smirked. "Very well. First, you must learn to temper your fire."

She raised her hand, conjuring a controlled wisp of Soulfire. It coiled and danced in her palm, shifting forms seamlessly from a flickering flame to a thin, dagger-like shape. Then, with a flick of her wrist, it hardened into a solid form—a short blade of pure energy.

Ren watched in awe. He had never considered solidifying his Soulfire before. His attempts had always been raw bursts of destructive energy. He closed his eyes, focusing inward, feeling the heat within him. Slowly, he let it rise, shaping it in his mind before extending his hand.

A flicker of blue flame emerged from his palm, wavering unsteadily. He furrowed his brows, concentrating harder, willing it to take shape. The fire trembled, shifting, bending—but before he could fully control it, it exploded outward, forcing him to stumble back.

Kagura sighed. "Too much force. You cannot command it like steel. Guide it, let it obey your intent. Again."

Ren gritted his teeth and tried once more. This time, he breathed deeply, letting his will flow with the flame instead of forcing it. Slowly, the fire elongated, coalescing into a crude, flickering blade. It wasn't perfect, but it held.

Kagura nodded approvingly. "A step forward. Tomorrow, we refine your technique. Soon, your blade will be as sharp as your resolve."

Ren tightened his grip around his unstable flame. The path ahead would be grueling, but he was ready to carve his way through.