Chapter 2:The First Lesson
Ethan trailed behind the woman, his mind whirling as he tried to grasp his new reality. The world around him was unlike anything he'd ever seen—rolling hills blanketed in silvery grass, groves filled with trees whose leaves shimmered in otherworldly hues of purple and blue. Ethereal creatures flitted between the trees, their forms barely visible, like living shadows dancing just beyond his reach.
Kaelin, his guide, moved with practiced ease. Her armor glinted in the sunlight as she led him deeper into this strange land. Though her face remained serious, Ethan sensed an underlying strength in her—a strength he knew he'd need to survive in this alien world.
They eventually reached a small clearing nestled among ancient trees. Kaelin turned to face him, her eyes assessing. "Before we continue, I need to understand what you're capable of."
Unease crept through Ethan. "I'm not sure I'm capable of much. I don't even know what I did back there."
A hint of a smile touched Kaelin's lips. "That was your Aura—energy manifested from within. Most Aetherians spend years learning to control it. You're just beginning, but the fact you triggered it instinctively... that's promising."
Ethan nodded slowly, struggling to comprehend. He looked at his hands, willing the strange light to return, but nothing happened. "How do I... start? Is there some kind of trick?"
"Not exactly," Kaelin replied. "Aura is linked to your emotions and intent. It's less about control and more about focus."
She gestured to their surroundings. "Close your eyes. Try to empty your mind, and let yourself feel this place—the air, the sounds, the energy around you."
Hesitantly, Ethan shut his eyes and took a deep breath. He listened to the soft rustle of leaves, the distant calls of unseen creatures, and the subtle hum of energy pulsing through the earth. The sensation was strange yet exhilarating, as if he stood at the center of something vast and alive.
Then he felt it—a faint warmth in his chest, similar to before but more subtle. As he focused, the warmth spread through his body. When he opened his eyes, his hands glowed once more, silver light dancing along his fingertips.
Kaelin's smile widened. "Good. Now, try to focus that energy—think of it as an extension of yourself."
Ethan clenched his fist, feeling the light intensify and swirl faster around his hand. A thrill shot through him as he felt the power surge, but before he could celebrate, the light sputtered out like a candle in the wind. He stumbled, barely catching himself.
Kaelin chuckled. "Not bad for a first try. Don't worry—using Aura is like building muscle. It grows stronger with practice and patience."
He straightened, pushing aside his embarrassment. "What's next?"
"Now," she said, glancing toward distant mountains, "we head to the Citadel. You'll need proper training to master your Aura, and the masters there can guide you."
Ethan nodded, determination kindling in his eyes. He had no idea what awaited him at the Citadel, but he was ready to face it. If he was going to survive in Aetheria, he'd need every ounce of strength he could muster.
Kaelin's voice softened as she placed a hand on his shoulder. "Remember, Ethan, every journey begins with a single step. This is your first lesson."