Degree

Middle Ages, approximately 5th–11th centuries.

An ordinary kingdom flourished on the banks of a river. It was renowned for its invincibility and the largest kingdom, forging and crafting the finest weapons. The kingdom was called "Stalgrad" because of its ruthlessness. At its head were a king and queen and a young heir, Gradus.

Gradus was quiet and calm, with a quick temper, but he was also inquisitive. He wanted to see the world, but he was forbidden to leave the castle. Gradus wore glasses with thin blue frames. He inherited his mother's blue eyes and his father's unruly chestnut hair.

The parents of the degree were renowned for their cruelty and brutal methods of execution. Everyone was afraid to look them in the eye or protest; no one even had the courage to disobey.
Soon, the queen fell gravely ill, and the king ordered the best healer to be found. But everything was fair, no one could help the queen, until one of the servants told her of a herbalist living in the forest swamp—a man who could cure any ailment. Everyone also said he had an unusual appearance. The king ordered this man brought to the kingdom.