Chapter 2: Journey to College

I found Big brother in his Manor sitting as he cleaned his sword. His Manor was spacious with several bookshelves forming a library. Aside from it was an arsenal filled with swords, knives, blades, sabers, a spear, and a few shields. Before that was a large circular window facing the Imperial city in the distance.

Being staged on a hill, our courtyard gave a serene look at the Imperial city. Of course, the Hei Imperial Dynasty ruled four continents and was neighbors with the Zhenj Empire to the west. In the East was the Dark sea and beyond was the Dark Empire. However little information was known about the Dark Empire. In the North was the Ice Yin Mountains which were home to the Ice Clan and White Wolf Clan.

" There you are. Let's head to the peak," he said.

"Okay!" I answered.

The cold breeze gave an ambiance of peace and harmony with nature. Behind Big Brother, I stood as I mulled over how far I had come with the nice family I had gotten into.No words were exchanged for a brief moment but instead enjoyed the peaceful moment at the time.

" Little Fu, how have you been?" His calm voice broke the silence.

" Very good," I answered.

" That is good to hear. I hope you know why I called you here." My heart shook. I knew we had talked about it time and again but still, I couldn't help it. I never wanted to part with this nice family.

" Yes, I do," I replied with a sigh.

" The Imperial College entrance tests will take place in a few days from now. I hope you are prepared." His voice was void of emotion. Everyone knew how strong my relationship with Big brother was. Everyone could tell how much he doted on me.

He was more than just a Big brother to me. I couldn't repay him any better. And yet, all this was coming to an end in due time. Maybe not forever but for a long time we will have to be separated. I was heading out to start my new life as a man. I was officially going to be declared independent.

" I hope you do your best and make us proud. We are looking for a better performance out of you. And lastly don't expose yourself too much to the public."

" I hope you understand."

" Yes!" I knew these were one of his last words although I never wanted to believe them.

" Alright, you can later come back for a farewell gift."

" Sure!"

" Mmmm... you can go. That's all for now.

I left the peak back to my courtyard to have a good rest. Huge pressure was before me. These were one of my last moments, I had to treasure them.

On this morning, the effulgent rays penetrated through the broad and long Mahoganies and Mvules. The finches clasped the wings beautifully in the azure sky. The great horizons were covered with cirrus clouds making the weather great for the day.

On this same day, the streets of the Imperial city were more cheerful than before. The security was great and more businesses had been put into place. More especially the betting business.

Outside in the Manor gardens, all the brothers were around having tea except Gu Xiao.

" Come on Little Brother Fu. Come join us." Big Brother invited me.

" Yeah. Come on! Join! Have a seat."

" Today is your big day." The others added.

" Oh yeah! The future General of the Dynasty is before us why not!" one teased. The others broke into loud laughter.

How I wished the moment could go further. Alas! That was all but just a wild Dream.

" I know he won't disappoint us." Luo Dao assured the rest.

" Of course! Everyone knows it. Instead, it's Little Fu."

" Of course, I promise," I said softly while trying to force a smile.

" Hey don't be nervous. You are already too good as those great talents of the Empire."

" Aaah ... Little Fu, go get your things. You shouldn't be late."

" Right, you can't be late on your fast day."

" Okay," I replied.

Having gotten my things, I moved out with my little luggage and headed out.

" Here is a gift for you." Big Brother said.

" This is our farewell gift as a family."

" Thank you." I didn't reject their goodwill. It was long with a black saber and narrow silver blade with golden carvings on it. It was a masterpiece.

" Okay, let's go. We can't be late. " We then headed off for the Imperial city. Together as a band and together as a family. It felt nice.

On the city, the gate was a battalion of guards and a large line of people. After about a few kilometers, I guessed these were the locals who wanted to partake in the Imperial college test. My brothers seemed oblivious to the line before them and directly moved forward.

" Hey, you! Who do you think you are? Who gave you the audacity to just leave aside the line?" one of the locals with a long beard shouted.

Luo Dao turned and faced the young man. His eyes glared red causing the young man to shiver with fear.

" You ... you..." the young man peed for himself. I pitied the fella.

Luo Dao turned and the band moved on with their movements.

" How scary?"

" Yeah! They are not easy to offend."

" How pitiful for the young man." the crowd continued with their talk.

" Was that necessary? " Big Brother asked with a sigh.

" Maybe..." Luo Dao answered.

In a short time, we were a few meters from the gate.

" Hey, you! Don't you see the line!" one of the guards said.

Big Brother pulled out a golden token that caused the eyes of the young guard to protrude with fear. He swallowed hard.

" Can we enter?" Big Brother asked calmly.

" Su...Sure! Wh..y Why...not?" the guard bowed and led the way.

I was astonished. I never knew Big Brother was that respected. What was his role in the Empire? I thought he was a bandit. Too thrilling and mysterious I concluded. The rest of the brothers only held their chests high as they passed by the guards. It was as though what they were seeing was Normal. I couldn't help but sigh. I guess power was all that mattered.

^⁠_⁠^

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