Chapter 0.1 The Young Masters Return

"'King,' a figure capable of ruling an entire nation, commanding vast armies with seemingly unending power. Their influence stretches across the globe, instilling fear in those who dare oppose them," the teacher's voice resonated through the classroom, capturing the attention of all the children, including a boy named Henry.

Henry stood out from his peers; though a bit clumsy, he possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Every time he encountered new information, his curiosity would consume him, rendering him an eager and relentless learner. While some found his boundless patience peculiar, it only fueled Henry's quest for understanding. He had once unintentionally gained popularity in school when he accidentally dislodged a teacher's wig, an incident that became the talk of the town.

As the teacher continued with the lesson, hours slipped away, and the day progressed to its peak. Suddenly, a villager's urgent cry echoed throughout the village, reaching every ear within seconds. Gasping for breath, the villager stumbled upon a village guard, desperately recounting the news. "He's back," the man gasped. "Who's back?" inquired the guard. The man gathered himself, took a deep breath, and yelled once more, "THE YOUNG MASTER'S BACK!"

A moment of silence enveloped the village, followed by a surge of activity as everyone abandoned their tasks and rushed toward the village gates. Confusion filled the classroom, especially for Henry, who eagerly raised his hand seeking answers. "Teacher, who is this young master Alexander?" Henry questioned.

In a calm and measured tone befitting a teacher, the instructor replied, "The young master, Alexander Dimitrius, is an extraordinary prodigy who once resided within our humble village. Setting out on a remarkable journey at a tender age, he now returns to his cherished hometown." The children's amazement grew, and their curiosity was piqued further, as they too yearned to catch a glimpse of the prodigious Alexander.

The guards, stalwart figures, rushed to the towering village gates adorned with weathered pillars, their intricate carvings whispering tales of ancient traditions. The guards strained their ears, hearing footsteps growing louder, and a presence riding closer. When the man finally arrived at the village gates, he signaled the guards, indicating his readiness to meet his people.

Among the villagers, whispers spread like wildfire. "Is that the same boy who was once clumsy?" they murmured to one another.

As the gates swung open, Alexander continued his triumphant stride toward the central village, becoming the focal point of every onlooker's gaze. Cheers and greetings erupted, echoing in every corner. The villagers marveled at Alexander's transformed physique, resembling a chiseled marble statue exuding strength and confidence, now appearing nearly in his 20s. Responding with gestures of gratitude, he left some overwhelmed by his magnetic presence. A few onlookers succumbed to faintness; their hearts captivated by his breathtaking allure. Familiarity with Alexander grew as he gained young fans from among the crowd. After a brief pause, he spotted someone ahead— the Village Chief. Ascending to the stage where the Chief stood, Alexander whispered something, prompting a look of surprise from the Chief. Raising his hand, the Chief commanded silence, enveloping the entire village.

Henry navigated through the crowd, struggling to secure a place in the front row. After a series of efforts, he succeeded and found himself standing at the forefront. The Chief began his announcement, his voice carrying across the buzzing crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, let us gather and bear witness to the return of a prodigious soul. Our very own young master, Alexander Dimitrius, once graced our humble village with his presence. Departing on a remarkable odyssey at an exceptionally young age, he now triumphantly returns to the cherished embrace of his ancestral home. He roamed the entire kingdom, presented with an opportunity by one of the world's mightiest, strongest, and most influential figures—a KING."

The news shattered the silence, setting off an eruption of cheers, transforming the air into a symphony of jubilant voices. In the midst of the commotion, Henry, being small in stature, found himself vulnerable to accidental harm. In a flash, his vision turned black, and his body succumbed to an uncontrollable force. He was knocked out...