Prologue

My trainer, Imelda, instructed me to look at the target and fasten myself on the red dot as I struggled to concentrate on the target's exact center even though it was about 500 meters away and my arms were shaking as I had extended the bowstring.

"Release!" When I heard the cue, I let go of the arrow. I quickly drop the heavy bow and grasp the steel bar beside me. My arms are so tired that I can't even lift them. My energy appears to be completely consumed by the heavy bow.

"That's the lowest class bow, Nicholas, and you can't even handle it without your arms trembling? You wanted to be a weapon master, but look at you, relying on a mere steel bar to support you after just one shot?" she reprimanded as she began to gather the three different types of bows in front of me. She lifted the bow I used, loaded it with three golden arrows, and stood confidently, aiming at the 500-meter target. I was watching her every move and listening intently to everything she said.

She fires the arrow, and as I watch it, it accelerates as it travels through the midair, blazing under the scorching heat of the sun. "This low-class bow that you just used usually sucks up a meager amount of energy from your body. If you are like that after doing one shot, then I suppose you need to develop your body first." I can clearly see the cracks when it hits the target. Although the effect wasn't tremendous, it is undoubtedly strong. I must admit that I was dumbfounded with astonishment.

She organized the bow and arrows, then looked me over from head to toe, saying, "I didn't expect a boy your age to be this frail. You may build the stamina you need by doing 100 sit-ups, 100 push-ups, and 20 laps of running every morning. Then, I'll provide you with meals that will give you adequate energy."

"I will do everything in my power to improve myself and become the best weapon master." I declared boldly.

"Don't just do what you can, push yourself to do what you think you can't," Imelda says as she taps my shoulder and walks over to the weaponry. "Don't lose sight of your purpose," she added.

The tower made a loud, sudden noise. It's a sign that the morning training has come to an end, and each of us should eat our lunch and return to our quarters to clean and organize our belongings. I heave a deep sigh and proceed to my quarters.

My purpose. I am here to be strong to protect my mother and get what is rightfully mine. We have been deprived of the things that should be ours, including the family that my mother yearns for.