The capital city...

Chapter: Arrival at the Capital

The road to the Royal City stretched endlessly beneath the golden morning sky. The horses pulling their chariot moved at a steady pace, their hooves clattering against the cobbled path. The wind was crisp, carrying the scent of fresh grass and the distant aroma of street food from villages they passed along the way.

Inside the chariot, Raze and Kael sat cross-legged, their eyes closed as they focused on meditation. The rhythmic sway of the chariot didn't disturb them; they were too deep in concentration. Even with the excitement of the upcoming Royal Academy entrance test, they knew that maintaining focus was just as important as physical training.

Across from them, Nyx, their mother, watched them with amusement. The serious expressions on their young faces made her smile. With a chuckle, she finally broke the silence.

"Please, boys, calm down. It's just a test. It's not that difficult," she said, shaking her head.

Kael opened one eye, his expression unwavering. "Mom, it's not about whether it's difficult or not. I want to be the best." His tone carried conviction—a desire to push himself beyond his limits.

Before Nyx could respond, Raze spoke up, his voice calm but filled with determination.

"I want to make you proud, Mom… so you can stand tall at the exam," he said. "Because I wasn't able to make you proud at the element check test."

The memory of that day still stung. Unlike Kael, who had been recognized as having Light and Lightning elements from birth, Raze had been ridiculed. His element was unknown, an anomaly. People had whispered, mocked, and even pitied him. He had seen the way his mother had smiled that day, how she had reassured him… but deep down, he had felt like a failure.

Nyx's expression softened as she reached out, gently brushing Raze's hair.

"Aww, my baby. That's so brave and thoughtful of you," she said warmly. "But always remember—I am always proud of you."

Raze looked away, his fingers curling into fists. "But I made you ashamed that day…"

Nyx cupped his face, her warm golden eyes locking onto his. "I could never feel ashamed of you, my love."

Kael, who had been silently listening, smiled slightly. He had always known Raze had a lot to prove, not just to the world but to himself. Seeing his older brother so determined only pushed Kael harder.

Outside, the world was changing. The dense forests and open plains gave way to tall stone walls, signaling the entrance to the capital city. The moment they passed through the towering city gates, the atmosphere shifted.

The Royal City was alive.

The streets were packed with people—merchants yelling out their wares, children laughing as they ran through the crowds, and guards patrolling the roads in their polished silver armor. The smell of freshly baked bread, roasted meat, and spiced fruits filled the air, instantly attacking the senses of the two young boys in the chariot.

Even the ever-serious Raze opened his eyes at the scent of food. His stomach growled, betraying him.

Nyx chuckled, shaking her head. "You both can eat whatever you want… but only one thing, okay?"

Raze and Kael exchanged glances before breaking into grins.

"Okkk!! Thanks, Mom!!" they shouted cheerfully in unison.

The moment the chariot stopped near the market district, the boys jumped out. Their eyes scanned the food stalls, each one more tempting than the last. There were steaming meat skewers, crispy fried dumplings, golden honey cakes, and bowls of rich, aromatic stew.

Kael's gaze landed on a vendor selling grilled chicken skewers. He had always loved meat, and the smell of charred, juicy chicken was enough to make his decision. He handed over a few copper coins, grabbing the skewer with anticipation.

Raze, on the other hand, spotted a stall selling crispy golden pastries filled with sweet cream. His mouth watered as he watched the vendor pull a fresh batch from the oven. He quickly bought one, taking a bite.

Heaven.

The cream melted in his mouth, the crispy shell adding the perfect crunch. He couldn't help but hum in satisfaction as he devoured it.

Meanwhile, Nyx watched them with an amused smile.

"Boys will be boys," she thought, shaking her head.

After finishing their food, Raze and Kael made their way to the main square, where a massive stone bulletin board stood.

Carved onto the board was the official Royal Academy Entrance Test Schedule.

[ROYAL ACADEMY ENTRANCE TEST]

Location: Grand Hall, Royal Palace Grounds

Time: Sunrise Tomorrow

Requirements: All participants must be present before dawn. Any late arrivals will be disqualified.

Reading the last part, Kael let out a low whistle. "No second chances, huh?"

Raze took a deep breath. "That's fine. We won't need one."

Kael grinned, slapping his older brother on the back. "That's the spirit."

Nyx placed a gentle hand on their shoulders. "Alright, let's find an inn. You both need proper rest before the exam."

With that, they made their way deeper into the city, the sun slowly setting behind them.