The journey to Blue Sky Imperial City stretched over rolling hills and winding paths. As dusk approached, Kai and Crimson found themselves deep within a quiet forest. The evening air was crisp, and the light of the setting sun filtered through the trees like golden mist.
Kai slowed his horse and dismounted. "Let's stop here for the night."
Crimson nodded, already scanning the area. "I'll find something to eat."
As Kai built a small fire, Crimson disappeared into the woods. Minutes later, he returned, dragging a large forest boar. The scent of cooking meat soon filled the air. Crimson tore into his share while Kai calmly roasted slices over the fire, sprinkling a bit of spice from a pouch on his belt.
"You're a good cook," Crimson said between bites.
Kai smirked. "Learned in my mercenary days. Cooking was survival."
There was a brief silence, then Kai spoke again, his tone more thoughtful. "Do you remember your family, Crimson?"
Crimson paused, staring into the fire. "No. I only remember I'm a shapeshifter… nothing else."
Kai nodded slowly. "Don't worry. We'll find our families. One way or another."
Suddenly, Crimson's ears perked up. "Master, someone's coming."
Kai's eyes narrowed. "Yeah… I hear them too."
From the shadows, a lavish carriage appeared, its frame decorated with gold-trimmed panels and a clan crest emblazoned on the side. Two armored guards marched beside it, and a well-dressed coachman guided the reins.
The carriage stopped, and a young man stepped out, clad in elegant robes stitched with fine silver thread. His gaze swept the campsite before settling on Kai with mild curiosity.
"What an extraordinary young man," he muttered.
One of the guards stepped forward. "Young master, shall we—"
The young man waved him off. "Shut up, Mike."
Mike grumbled, "Yes, young master."
He approached the campfire. "Excuse me. May we rest here for the night?"
Kai shrugged. "Whatever. Sit down."
Mike bristled. "How dare you speak to my young master—"
"I said shut up, Mike," the young man snapped again.
He offered Kai a polite smile and sat. "Name's Elijah. From the Jackson Clan. But just call me Elijah."
"Kai."
"You headed to Blue Sky Academy?"
"Yeah. You?"
Elijah smirked. "Of course. You must be strong to get a recommendation letter."
Kai stirred the fire. "Just strong enough."
Elijah grinned. "Same here."
Kai passed him a skewer of meat. Elijah took a bite and widened his eyes. "This is amazing. You're really good."
"Cooking was one of the few luxuries on the road."
They laughed and shared stories under the stars, a strange but genuine bond forming between two young prodigies.
By morning, the two rode together. The towering walls of Imperial City loomed ahead, and the gates bustled with people.
The crowd parted as guards spotted the Jackson crest on Elijah's carriage.
"Make way! Make way! Jackson Clan coming through!"
"Is that Elijah Jackson?"
"Top ten genius outside the capital!"
Whispers followed them all the way to the gate.
The guards at the entrance bowed deeply. "Welcome, young master Elijah."
Elijah looked at Kai. "Let's go."
Kai followed silently, avoiding the long wait behind.
Once inside the city, Elijah asked, "Where are you staying?"
"Nowhere yet. I'll find a place after I take the test."
"No need. My family manor is in the Inner City. Come stay with me. The test is tomorrow anyway."
Kai hesitated, then nodded. "Alright."
The two made their way through the majestic inner districts, the road paved in polished stone, surrounded by towering spires, noble estates, and flowing fountains.
The capital had arrived—and Kai was ready.