Volume 1, Chapter 2: The Bicycle – The Hero Meant to Save This World

Meanwhile, in another world, inside a grand temple adorned with ancient relics and sacred altars, a gathering of priests stood solemnly. All were draped in robes of white and gold, their expressions serious and reverent, heads bowed in prayer. They were preparing for the arrival of the hero - summoned to save their lands from a looming disaster.The High Priest raised his hands toward the heavens and declared: “O Great Spirits! We are ready to receive your chosen one!”A massive beam of light, blinding and majestic, burst into the temple, flooding it with radiant brilliance. The prayers ceased, silence fell, and the priests held their breath - the anticipation was unbearable... Then, the light dimmed, and in the spot where they awaited their hero stood... a bicycle.An awkward silence followed.“Ahem…” the High Priest cleared his throat quietly, glancing at the others.“Is… is this our hero?” one of the junior priests whispered.“Maybe it’s a symbol?” another offered, staring at the bicycle with the same bewildered awe one might have if a dragon had suddenly materialized before them.The bicycle stood in the center of the room, gleaming in the light. One of the priests, his face filled with reverence, knelt before it.“O great iron steed, we welcome you!”One of the younger priests dared to touch it but hesitated - unsure if he should do so with reverence or caution.“Do you think it’ll… speak to us somehow?”The High Priest furrowed his brow, scrambling for any kind of explanation. Suddenly, an absurd yet brilliant idea struck him.“Perhaps… Perhaps this is only the hero’s first form. He needs time to transform!”The priests lit up with excitement, quickly discussing theories about what form their hero might take. Someone speculated that the hero could be a mighty warrior, disguised as an object to test their faith. The bicycle remained motionless, mysterious and silent, leaving the priests utterly perplexed.