Chapter One: The Village and the Old Man:

Luqia is known for its strength and the number of wizards and brave duelists. Aqshur City, the capital, is located beside a village in the Great Forest called "The Serpent," which is famous for its dueling arts. Three days' journey away. The village leader, Amin Kush, decided to overthrow the ruler but failed miserably. Consequently, he condemned himself and his people to destruction. The king ordered the annihilation of the village and its inhabitants, including the elderly, children, and even pregnant women. The villagers had no choice but to flee from the king's tyranny. Only an eight-year-old boy survived after his parents sacrificed themselves for him. The boy ventured deep into the forest and spotted a house near a river. He rushed to it, knocking on the door and screaming with all his remaining strength. An old man wearing black attire came out. The boy was terrified and fell down in fear.

Old Man: "What's wrong, boy?"

Boy: "The king's knights have destroyed my village, and they are now chasing me! Please, help me!"

Old Man: "Come in, lad. I will cast a spell on you so they cannot see you. Just stay put and do not fear. Alright?"

Boy: "Alright."

The knights arrived and knocked on the door. A young man in his twenties answered.

First Knight: "Have you seen a boy pass by here?"

Young Man: "No, I haven't seen him."

Second Knight: "We need to search your house, young man. Step aside."

The knights stormed the house ruthlessly, searching every corner. They found no trace of the boy. As they were leaving, they instructed the young man to notify them if he saw the boy. After their departure, the old man undid the spell, reverting back to his old self and making the boy visible once more. The old man had used a disguise spell.

The boy was astonished by what he saw, overwhelmed with questions, almost forgetting the events that had transpired. The old man halted him.

Old Man: "What's your name, lad?"

Boy: "My name is Aris Freiger. And yours, sir?"

Old Man: "I am Abis. Why were the knights chasing you?"

The boy recounted the events, swearing revenge. After hearing everything, the old man decided to take the boy as his apprentice.