Chapter 9: Embers of Steel

The sky was drenched in a golden hue as the sun dipped toward the horizon. At the clearing near their humble home, Reve stood with his blade drawn, sweat tracing the edge of his jaw. Eiran circled him like a hawk.

"Again," Eiran barked, his tone sharp, but no longer cold.

Reve exhaled deeply, grounding his feet. He swung the aura sword in a fluid motion, cutting through the air. A subtle hum resonated from the blade—a sign of awakening harmony between wielder and weapon.

"You're still rushing," Eiran muttered, grabbing the blade mid-swing with his own. "Aura isn't just power. It's rhythm. It flows with your intent."

Reve nodded, adjusting his stance. Sweat dripped from his brow, but his eyes stayed fierce. This wasn't just about getting stronger—it was about preparing to change the world.

Off to the side, Arel and Mina were undergoing their own drills. Eiran had begun teaching them the fundamentals of aura channeling—basic breathing, stance control, and sensing the faint energy flow within themselves.

Mina giggled when she managed to make a pebble bounce using her barely noticeable aura thread. Arel stood in deep concentration, trying to copy his big brother's discipline.

Meanwhile, Reve sat cross-legged, palms open on his knees. Eiran placed a hand on his back, guiding his breathing.

"Now listen. Feel the world breathe with you. Your aura is not alone. Let it pulse. Let it rise."

The world seemed to hush.

Within Reve, a gentle tremor began. It started from his chest, a warm surge of will pushing against invisible limits.

Then—

A deep, silent crack echoed through his core.

A rush of energy flooded his limbs as the iron within his aura sparked. His veins burned like molten threads, his breath steady but wild.

Eiran stepped back, eyes wide with pride. "You've done it... You've crossed into the Ironpulse Stage."

Reve opened his eyes, a faint glow behind them. Stronger. Sharper. Closer to his dream.

That night, they sat by the fire. No words, just the warmth of bond and the silence of purpose.

Tomorrow, they would depart.

The path awaited.