Prologue: Prepare

There was a faraway village, hidden in the mountains, which gave them sanctuary against the impending darkness that could ravage its peace. It was a place not so many know, yet it is one such place not so many don't. It wasn't too flashy, or over decorated, unlike other communities, though its reputation has been spread across the lands.

A young boy had been training in the military stronghold's sparring arena. He was incredibly agile, being able to strike multiple enemies with the blink of an eye. He volunteered in the first place, and everyone was eager to see him prepare for his destiny, even if he isn't entirely sure of what he would come across in the distant future.

The general, Hideki, was watching him, like how a father would take close watch of his son. He took note of his every move, and even he was amazed with the boy's skill and prowess, something he couldn't obtain despite the countless battles he participated in. He was glad that he made the boy train with the spear. Hideki now had trouble keeping up with the boy's pace.

The multiple sounds of striking and slashing on the holographic training dummies quietly echoed around the arena. After a few seconds, all dummies were destroyed, decapitated, or shish – kebabbed.

The boy was barely tired. He returned the overused spear to the armory. "How did I do, sir?"

"Astounding work!" the general proclaimed. "I am proud of you."

"Ah, no biggie," the child replied back, fixing his long, white hair.

Hideki encouraged the boy to get closer to him. He held his hands to the child's and told him this.

"You are granted with a destiny fit for warriors like you. I trust that you won't fail who you fight for."

"I will stand my ground, Sir!"

"You need training. We have lots of time, but it has been running out. We must escort you to go to the Land of the Dawn and keep you there."

The child's curiosity widened. No one told him that he'd need to go to the said kingdom, governed and occupied by peaceful men and elves.

"Why, what's wrong?"

Hideki answered calmly, "Soon, the Holy bonds that restrain evil will be broken. It is only a matter of-"

He was interrupted by the boy's reaction. "Then why can't we end it before it happens? That way, we don't have to worry about anything!"

"It is inevitable. Only the Lords of Order know the location of the Dreadmare Chest, and that information is something we can't just access immediately."

The boy made a brave face. "Then… we need to prepare, quickly."

Hideki placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Everything will happen at the right time, Yun Zhao. For now, we must hope your allies have been doing the same."