Rebirth and Reincarnation

Darkness gives way to light, and the feeling of floating is replaced by the harsh reality of birth. You scream, a tiny body struggling, as hands wrap you in cloth. The world is blurry, sounds are muffled, but a beautiful singing voice fills the air, comforting you into sleep.

You awaken later, unsure of the time passed, but with a startling realization: you are an infant, but your mind is that of a 36-year-old man from the 21st century. You were reborn.

Days turn into months, months into years. You learn to navigate this infant body, absorbing the world around you. Your parents are loving, your home grand, and you begin to grasp the language. By age two, you can speak simple words, delighting your mother. You practice writing, driven by the memory of your past life as an author.

Now, at age seven, seasons have cycled six times since your rebirth. You've mastered reading and writing, enduring rigorous training in martial arts and meditation. Society's expectations weigh on you – you are a noble, expected to follow in your father's footsteps. Your talents are recognized, earning you praise from your teachers and pride from your parents.

Just as you finish martial arts practice, your teacher, Master Fa, informs you that the royal Eunuch is here, and your father requests your presence. A sigh escapes you. Another meeting where your father will undoubtedly boast about his 'genius' son. But this time, the news is different: you've been invited to the palace for the third prince's birthday.