Prologue

Imagine a world where there are different races, each with their own unique characteristics and ways of thinking. You might think that this would lead to chaos and constant fighting. Even in times of peace, there could still be uncertainty and more problems to deal with. But what's even worse is that humans are the ones who face the most difficulties in this situation. 

Throughout history, humans have always been at a disadvantage compared to other races in many different areas of life. This includes physical abilities, technological advancements, and cultural achievements. Humans have witnessed the incredible abilities of other races, like elves who can do magic, dwarves who are exceptional craftsmen and miners, and even mythical creatures like dragons who possess immense power.

When it comes to technology, humans have often fallen behind other races. They struggle to use natural resources effectively and understand advanced sciences. While other races have ancient knowledge passed down through generations or access to powerful and magical objects, humans have had to learn through trial and error, which takes more time. This slower progress has put them at a disadvantage in protecting their interests or developing their societies.

In addition, humans have faced prejudice and discrimination from other races, which has made their suffering even worse. They have been held back from reaching their full potential, exploited, and had their dreams shattered. Other races have taken advantage of their empathy, sympathy, and other emotions that make them human, using them against humans and causing them more pain.

However, in the last 10 years, humanity has faced a terrifying threat of extinction. Most other races have declared war on mankind, and humans have suffered defeat after defeat, losing many soldiers in the process. They have been forced to take desperate measures, even mobilizing young and inexperienced children to join the fight. But even that hasn't been enough to stop the enemy. When the enemy came close to the capital, people lost all hope.

In the orphanage of the capital, there was a 9-year-old boy with black hair. We don't know his name, but one day an officer took him to the battlefield. It was clear that he was given a small task for his first mission, and it was expected to stay that way. However, when the enemy came dangerously close to the capital and the government was feeling hopeless, even the top officials in the army couldn't do anything. So, they made the difficult decision to send him into battle.

In a surprising twist, he and the other children from the orphanage were unexpectedly sent to the battlefield to stop the opposing army. This decision came as a shock to everyone because these kids had only known a life of struggle and difficulty. They were not prepared for the terrible things they would experience in war.

Afterwards, everyone believed they had succeeded, although nobody really knew what had happened on the battlefield. The truth remained a mystery, hidden by the sacrifices made and the chaotic nature of war. Out of all the orphans who had been sent into battle, he was the only one to return. His return brought a sense of hope, and people started calling him "Ace."

After that happened, he kept winning one victory after another. But with each win, he felt a tightness in his chest and a growing anger inside him. Despite his success, the more he achieved, the more his chest felt constricted, and the more he felt consumed by rage and the need for revenge.

He couldn't escape the conflicting feelings within him. On one hand, people saw him as a hero, but deep down, he felt like a vessel of anger, fueled by the memories of the battlefield. His triumphs, once joyful, now left a bitter taste in his mouth. The cheers from the crowd sounded empty, as if mocking his inner struggle. He questioned whether he was becoming the very monster he fought against, surrendering to the darkness that had claimed many lives.

Alone, his mind replayed the horrors he had witnessed. The faces of his fallen comrades haunted him, and their screams echoed in his nightmares. Their deaths fueled his anger, pushing him towards seeking revenge. But deep inside, he knew revenge was a futile pursuit, only leading to more violence. He longed for peace and a way to reconcile the conflicting emotions within him. However, he felt trapped by the expectations of the people, who saw him as their savior and symbol of hope.

Despite the fact that not everyone believes in this occurrence, Ace's accomplishments continue to inspire people, humanity regained its confidence and began reclaiming lost territories, causing concern among the other races. Confronted with this unforeseen uprising, the other races were compelled to pursue peace.

After the war, the country that used to be rich and successful faced a terrible aftermath of destruction and loss. The damage caused by the war deeply affected the lives of its people. Monsters also inhabit places like forests, caves, and fields that are far from human civilization. They are out of control, more numerous, and more violent. The majority of settlements were attacked, which resulted in forced emigration to cities, leaving the countryside increasingly desolate and overrun by monsters.

Families were separated, homes destroyed, and whole communities displaced. Society was torn apart, leaving people feeling hopeless and unsure about the future. The war not only destroyed buildings but also had a profound impact on people's emotions and well-being.

Despite the devastation, there were signs of strength and determination. People came together, forming close-knit communities to support each other. They shared what little they had, providing shelter and food to those in need. Even in the face of hardship, people's spirits remained strong, refusing to give in to the darkness that surrounded them.

The scars of war were visible, both in the physical landscape and in the hearts of its people. But they refused to be defined by the past. They embraced resilience, finding solace and inspiration in their collective spirit.

Years went by, and the country slowly recovered. It rose from the ruins of war stronger and more determined than ever. However, Ace ended up stationed at a distant desert border for ten years because he had nowhere else to go. In the scorching desert that stretched for kilometers, Ace protected the border from possible dangers and maintained order in the area. The days were tough, with the blazing sun relentlessly shining on the barren land.

He fought with his own inner struggles, trying to find comfort and understanding. Slowly, he began to let go of the anger that had consumed him. He focused on healing and making things right, determined to end the cycle of violence. Being cast out from society made him feel less suffocated, and his anger gradually faded away. However, he also felt empty, lost, and found it hard to connect with others.

With no signs of further conflict, many troops, including Ace, were discharged without any recognition or promotion. The abrupt transition from a life of war left Ace in a state of great suffering, both mentally and physically. Despite being true heroes, their efforts went unrecognised, with only high-ranking military officials receiving acknowledgement and awards. True heroes like Ace were left traumatised and neglected.

Left jobless, Ace now resides in a secluded location, far from bustling civilization. To sustain himself, he relies on hunting and foraging skills, exploring the intricacies of the wilderness to find food. He felt his life was similar to when he was in the orphanage, only at this time he was alone. His struggles with interpersonal communication have made him isolate himself from others. Strangely, Ace lacks the drive or ambition to embark on a journey of self-discovery, unveil his identity, or seek his parents. Such matters seem unimportant to him, as if he possesses an indifferent nature towards them.

While hunting alone one day, Ace was pursuing the prey while moving farther into the forest. He suddenly hears a woman's scream. Without a second thought, they quickly rush towards the sound to see what's happening.