THE Townsend twins were currently in a taxi, flying towards the direction of the Imperial Military Academy.  Even though Redwood Academy was much closer, Astrid insisted on going to the military academy first.  It’s because the latter was far stricter with time than the former. 

Unlike him, who could register at any time today, Reas had a scheduled time of registering.  Which was quite early.  So, the decision of where to go first was already a no-brainer. 

“Reas, remember to contact us immediately once your training period is finished,” their mother, who was on the other side of the virtual screen, said. 

They just got on the taxi when Astrid received a request for a video call from their mother.  Even though their parents had already called last night to check on them, he understood why they still called this early.  After all, today was some sort of an important day in their educational career path.

“And don’t forget what I told you about the real goal of this one-week training period,” their father added.

Astrid understood what their father meant.  Because he was also there when the other explained the ‘secret’ behind this one-week training period.  Having graduated from the same military academy, their father had first-hand experience regarding that.

Apparently, getting the acceptance letter from the academy was not the last step to entering the school.  To fully be admitted, they had to pass the one-week evaluation that the academy would conduct.  So, by the end of it, only the crème of the crop would remain.

“I know, Dad.  Don’t worry, I’m prepared,” Reas said, assuring both parents.  “I will definitely pass the evaluation.”

Their mother showed a complicated expression upon hearing that.  Obviously, she’s still not completely aboard with Reas going to the military academy.  But she had already agreed to this.  So, now, all she could do was to give her children her unwavering support. 

“Don’t try to do anything that would put you in danger.  Always put your safety as top priority,” she could only say before smiling warmly.  “I won’t say good luck because I know you’ll do well.  You’re my son after all.”

“And mine too,” their father quickly added.

“Yes, yes, I’m both your son,” Reas said in an indulging tone.

“How about me then?  Honestly, I’m getting really jealous here,” Astrid said in a teasing tone while smiling at their parents.

“Of course, our Aster is also the best,” Gage said like the proud father he was.

Emmy rolled her eyes at her husband, probably thinking that the other was such a fool for his sons.  But despite that, one could still see the love in her eyes.  She turned to her eldest son, a warm smile on her lovely face.

“Astrid, I know that you can protect yourself.  You’re always calm and collected.  You wouldn’t start something unless you can handle it.  But I just want you to know that if you ever encounter something that you can’t handle on your own, don’t hesitate to contact us and ask us for help.”  She then turned to Reas.  “You as well, Reas.  We may be far away.  But we will always be your support.  So, if things get tough, don’t hesitate to lean on us.  Okay?”

The twins both nodded but when their gazes collided, they both knew that they wouldn’t bother their parents unless it’s a life-or-death situation.  They wouldn’t bother them and let their peaceful lives be disturbed.  This was the life their parents worked so hard to attain.  How could they destroy that peace?  This was the path they had chosen themselves and therefore, should be responsible for it. 

They talked some more before they ended the call because they’re already near the Imperial Military Academy.

“Call me too once you’re able to use your Terminal,” Astrid said.

According to their father, during this one-week evaluation, the aspiring students would have to turn off their Terminal.  So, as not to be disturbed by any outside influence.  Their father said that the inspection of Terminals was pretty strict.  Anyone who was discovered not following the rules would immediately be sent home.  So, it’s best to abide to the rule during that one-week training evaluation.

Reas nodded.  He looked at Astrid as if hesitating to say something.  Astrid quickly understood what that was though.

He smiled helplessly.  “I’ll be fine on my own, Reas.  Just focus on your training and don’t worry about me.”

Reas wanted to say how could he not worry?  But he also knew that he couldn’t forever be beside his brother.  Both of them chose two paths that were almost opposite each other.  It’s natural that they would have to separate at some point.  Maybe he should get used to it now.  But even so, he couldn’t help but still feel a bit sentimental.

He took a deep breath.  “Always be careful, okay?  Try not to get into too much trouble.”

Astrid smiled and said teasingly, “Yes, Dad.” 

The taxi they were in slowly descended until it parked on one of the free parking spaces in front of the military academy’s gate. 

“I’m going,” Reas said.

Astrid gave his twin a quick hug.  “Show them what you got, little brother.”

After Reas walked out of the taxi, the AI robot driving the taxi asked him, “Should we leave, dear customer?”

Astrid watched the back of his twin went further and further until it completely disappeared into the huge gate of the military academy.  Just like Reas, he also felt a bit sentimental at this time.  The two of them hadn’t really been separated since birth.  This was probably the first time that they would have to spend time away from each other.  And this was just the beginning.

In the future, with their different careers – one an actor and the other a soldier, their time for separation would just become longer and longer.  He knew that he should probably start to get used to it now.  But he still felt a bit lost.

He smiled and shook his head.  Who would have thought he would become this attached?  Not that he’s complaining.  In fact, he was proud of it.  Because that meant that his bond with his twin brother was just that strong.

He turned to the AI robot and said, “Yes, let’s go.”

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