The morning sky stretched wide and pale, untouched by the violence of the world below. Jade stood at the edge of the small wooden bridge, watching the distant shadows of the forest cast long fingers over the land. The cool mist of the early morning clung to his skin, making the air feel alive. Today was the day that would mark the beginning of a new chapter. He had heard enough about the House of Xian to know that things there weren't simple, but that didn't make him hesitate. If there was a way to climb higher, to reach the strength he needed to protect those he cared about, then he would walk through the fire.
Rael had been quiet that morning, his gaze lingering on the distant horizon before he finally spoke.
"Are you sure you're ready?" Rael asked. His voice was calm but his eyes betrayed the concern of a mentor who had seen too many young souls burn out before they reached their full potential. "The Prince may see you as a tool, or worse, a threat. People like him don't play fair."
Jade turned to face Rael, the wind tugging at the edges of his cloak. "I have no choice but to be ready. I've seen how the world works now. I can't afford to wait any longer. The power I need, the answers I seek, they're within my reach."
Rael didn't answer at first. He seemed to study Jade for a moment, and then nodded, a hint of a sad smile crossing his face.
"Then go. But remember, Jade, trust is a rare commodity in that world. Use your instincts, but don't forget who you are. The Prince may try to twist you, but don't let him."
With a final glance, Rael turned and walked away, leaving Jade alone with his thoughts. His words echoed in Jade's mind as he started his journey toward the city where the House of Xian held court.
The city of Xian was like nothing Jade had ever seen. Towering spires of glass and stone rose into the sky, twisting in impossible angles, as if mocking the very laws of physics. People moved in the streets, walking with purpose, their clothes a mixture of rich silks and practical leathers, all adorned with symbols Jade had never seen before. It was a city of power, where every street corner seemed to hide whispers of ambition and secrets. But among the bustling masses, Jade was just another face — an unknown figure with a bounty on his head.
As he made his way deeper into the city, Jade felt the weight of his mission. He was here to gain the Prince's favor, to prove that he was someone worth noticing. But as Rael had warned, nothing here would come easily. People like the Prince didn't invite others into their circle without a reason. There had to be something more behind this invitation, something Jade had yet to uncover.
Finally, he arrived at the gates of the House of Xian, a massive palace that loomed over everything. The gates were intricately designed, made from an ancient metal that shimmered in the light. Two guards stood at attention, their eyes trained on Jade as he approached.
"Halt," one of the guards said, his voice cold but respectful. "The Prince is expecting you. Follow me."
Jade nodded, his heart racing as he followed the guard into the depths of the palace. The interior was just as impressive as the outside. Long corridors stretched out before him, their walls lined with fine tapestries and statues depicting great battles and victories. The scent of incense lingered in the air, mingling with the faint sound of music playing somewhere in the distance.
They finally arrived at a large chamber, where the Prince of Xian, Xander, sat upon a throne made of polished obsidian. His presence was commanding, the air around him thick with power and authority. His eyes, sharp and calculating, studied Jade as he stepped forward.
"You've come," Xander said, his voice smooth like velvet but carrying an underlying edge of command. "I've been hearing a great deal about you, Jade. About your power, your potential. Tell me, what is it that you seek in my court?"
Jade hesitated for a moment, but then remembered the lessons he had learned. This wasn't a time to show weakness. He straightened his posture and looked the Prince directly in the eyes.
"I seek power," Jade said, his voice steady. "I seek the strength to change the world. And I believe that with your guidance, I can become the man I was meant to be."
Xander's lips curled into a smile, but there was something cold in it, something Jade couldn't quite place. The Prince was playing a game, and he was determined to win.
"You think you can change the world?" Xander asked, raising an eyebrow. "The world is a vast and complex thing, Jade. Power alone won't change anything. But perhaps we can make an exception for you."
Jade remained silent, his mind working to understand the deeper layers of this conversation. He had made the right choice coming here — the Prince saw potential in him. But there was more beneath the surface. Jade knew that to survive in this court, he had to be careful. Every word, every move, would be scrutinized.
"Before you make any rash decisions," Xander continued, "I have a task for you. Prove your worth to me, and perhaps I will consider aligning with you. Fail, and you'll find yourself at the mercy of my enemies."
Jade's heart quickened. It was a challenge — a test. He had expected this, but it didn't make it any less dangerous.
"Tell me what I must do," Jade said, his voice unwavering.
Xander stood up slowly, his gaze piercing.
"Find the key to the Celestial Vault," he said. "It is a treasure of unimaginable power. And I want it in my hands. If you succeed, your place in my court will be secured. If not… well, let's just say I won't be the only one seeking your head."
Jade nodded, his mind already racing with the implications. The Celestial Vault. It was an artifact spoken of in hushed whispers, a treasure that could change the course of history.
"Understood," Jade replied, his resolve hardening. "I will find the key."
Xander's smile grew wider, and Jade could sense the dangerous game he had just entered. But there was no turning back now. The hunt for the key was on, and Jade had just stepped into the lion's den.