My name is The Prince. It's a codename given to me by the secret organization I represent. It is imperative that I keep my identity a secret, for the information I am about to disclose will place my life—along with the lives of two youngsters—in jeopardy. Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you, dear reader, for the fate of the world rests in my ability to educate you on the transgressions of the past.

The tale I am about to weave begs a background summary, for to understand the severity of our dilemma, it is pertinent for you to first familiarize yourself with the most prominent actors embroiled in this devastating controversy. Enter young Estelle and Joshua Bright, two noble Bracers charged with maintaining the peace and prosperity of their fellow man. Though inexperienced in many of life's quandaries, their courage and resolve was second-to-none. The trials and tribulations they had faced were such harrowing experiences that I am perpetually astonished at how these two youths managed to overcome such adversity. Yet perhaps their one flaw would be their undoing. The heart is a tricky puzzle to master, and matters of passion seldom end well regardless of experience.

The third actor of interest is the father of both Estelle and Joshua: Cassius Bright. A legend of Bracer lore, Cassius was an inspiration to all who knew him. It is through his teachings and encouragement that his children grew to be such strong warriors. A world without Cassius Bright is indeed a dim and disconcerting one. Indeed, his life and disappearance are at the center of history's most trying and turbulent time.

Our fourth and final actor is a monster most vile. Such a despicable manifestation of chaos and suffering has been long thought fictitious—something to be found only in fairytales and storybooks. But much to the horror of the world, the emissary of darkness—the harbinger of destruction—is very real indeed. The name of this villain is too dreadful, too debilitating, too damning for me to pen at the moment. But suffice to say, dear reader, that when you gradually come to uncover the identity of this fiend as I have in my field research, your faith in your own judgment will surely come under scrutiny.

Now join me in unraveling the mystery, exploring the history that led us to what I have dubbed "The Great Debacle", and perhaps together we may yet unearth a way to aid Estelle and Joshua in their final bid to save the world.