The city spread out below, a glowing maze of lights and tall buildings, amazing Elijah with its futuristic look. He had spent his whole life in the ancient forest, training with his grandfather, not knowing about the wonders of the outside world.
But even with all the beauty around him, he couldn't shake a feeling of unease, reminding him of the powerful forces controlling their world.
As Elijah walked through the crowded streets, he noticed a person standing in their path, grabbing his attention. He and Kai exchanged a look, silently wondering if the other knew this stranger. "Do you know her?" Elijah asked.
"Never seen her before," Kai replied.
"She seems like an assassin or thief. I like her," Elijah said with a grin, making Kai shake his head in disbelief.
"Before I forget, why do you like her?" Kai asked.
"She seems skilled, and I want to spar with her," Elijah answered.
"Thank goodness, I thought... never mind," Kai began but then stopped himself. He turned to the stranger and asked, "Who are you?"
"Hi, my name is Julia," she said. Her purple hair and sharp eyes made her stand out. With her hair tied back in a ponytail, she had a calculating look. Even though Kai was suspicious, he couldn't deny that she was strikingly beautiful. She was around their age but had a more mature body, catching the eyes of many men.
Julia's power, like that of a strong beast, intrigued Elijah despite Kai's doubts. "I was wondering if you would like to form a party with me," Julia asked. Not sensing any danger, Elijah quickly agreed, much to Kai's frustration.
"Why not? My name is Elijah, and this is Kai," Elijah said, ignoring Kai's annoyed look. Elijah smiled and whispered to Kai, "I'll take responsibility, so don't worry."
"That was easy," Julia commented wearing a mask.
"It's because I find you intriguing," Elijah confessed, but he was more interested in her strength than her appearance. Both Kai and Julia were surprised by his honesty.
"In what way?" Julia asked, curious.
"You seem strong, and you've been watching us for a while," Elijah explained. "By the way, since you joined our team, you need to buy us food."
Julia laughed at his straightforwardness. "That's all? What about the profits from defeating monsters?" she asked, a mask appearing in her hand.
"We'll share equally, and if you defeat one alone, you keep all the profit," Elijah suggested.
"Agreed," Julia said with a smile, and their team was formed. Elijah then asked for her suggestion on where they should go next.
"Then where do you recommend?" Elijah asked. Julia suggested a place, not knowing that their actions had caught the attention of a group watching them from afar.
"It's time to act when those kids come back. They'll have to choose which group to join," a man said, watching Elijah with a smile.
"It was surprising when they returned last time, but from their fights, I understand now," someone beside him commented.
"What about the girl?"
"She's trying to hide who she is, so find out. I won't act without knowing," he answered.
"Okay, I'll send some men. That should be enough," the other replied and disappeared. They were determined to discover Julia's true identity and waited for the right moment to strike.
Later, Elijah enjoyed a feast like never before, surprising both Kai and Julia.
"You shouldn't have brought him here," Kai said.
"I'm starting to realize that," Julia sighed, knowing she had to keep her promise. Elijah's appetite seemed endless, even though he tried to control himself.
The amount he ate left the two in shock, almost making Elijah laugh as he remembered the thousands of dishes Miss Amy cooked for him daily. After the meal, Elijah said, "Once you guys are done, let's go."
He led the way, his determination strong. Though challenges awaited, he was committed to growing stronger and protecting those he cared about.
As they ventured into the unknown, Elijah felt a bit nostalgic and looked back to see them still seated. "What are you guys doing? Let's go."
"We're not finished yet," Kai replied, and Elijah smiled.
"Okay," he said with a chuckle." Then can you bring me more"