Prologue Two
Nicholas Liao Cheng, born on July 17, 2007, is a Malaysian of Chinese descent, with roots tracing back to Imperial China. His family's lineage spans hundreds of years, and their rich history is a testament to their resilience and perseverance. Over generations, the Liao family has thrived in Malaysia, building a life that blends traditional values with modern aspirations.
Nicholas was raised in a household filled with love and care, yet also marked by a sense of quiet determination. His family consists of six members: his father, Kenny Liao Keng; his mother, Madison Pak Weng; his younger brother, Dylan Liao Tong; and his paternal grandparents, Adam Liao Lew and Ying Chong Na. Together, they made their home in a three-story modern bungalow, which they had lived in for decades. The house, though simple and practical, was a symbol of the family's stability and persistence, made all the more significant by the ever-rising housing prices in their area.
The Liao family's residence reflected both the sacrifices and successes they had made over the years. Their home, though humble by some standards, was a place where every meal was lovingly prepared by Madison, where every challenge was met with the strength of a family that had weathered both the struggles of immigration and the day-to-day hurdles of life. Despite the high cost of living, they had always managed to maintain this sanctuary, and it stood as a testament to their enduring commitment to one another.
Kenny Liao Keng, Nicholas' father, was a successful manager working for a U.S.-based IT company. He had a keen interest in cars, watches, and technology, often indulging in these passions during his rare moments of leisure. Though he could be stern and decisive when necessary, he was a devoted father who valued the peace and well-being of his family above all else. His tendency to avoid conflicts and tensions within the household was balanced by a willingness to act with force if the situation demanded it, always ensuring that his loved ones were protected.
Madison Pak Weng, Nicholas' mother, was a successful director and a businesswoman at a local printing and German IT company, where her organizational skills and leadership were recognized and respected. Despite her professional success, her most fulfilling role was as a mother. Madison was the anchor of the family, nurturing her children with love, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility. Her commitment to cooking every meal for the family was a reflection of her dedication to their well-being, and her passion for jewelry and items from other countries showcased her appreciation for beauty and culture. Though strict at times, she was also reasonable, with expectations that her children would be respectful, responsible, and successful. Her hopes for them were always clear, and Nicholas and Dylan's lives met her expectations.
Dylan Liao Tong, Nicholas' younger brother, was an energetic and ambitious young man. Born in April 2011, Dylan followed his path with a growing love for cars and a particular interest in anime, a shared hobby with his older brother. However, his relationship with Nicholas was marked by moments of moodiness and conflict, a reflection of Dylan's complex nature and their contrasting personalities. Despite their differences, they shared a platonic bond, rooted in mutual respect and understanding. Dylan was a successful driver and a YouTuber, carving his own space in the digital world. Though he did not always express it openly, he too cared deeply for his family and enjoyed the times when they could travel together. His travels were mostly within Asia and Australia, reflecting the family's practical approach to vacationing. When the finances allowed, they would explore new countries, but Europe and the Americas were rare destinations due to the costs involved.
The family's travels were often centered around nearby countries like Thailand, Japan, China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Australia. Each trip was a chance for the Liao family to bond, experience new cultures, and create lasting memories. However, their limited finances meant that they could not always afford more distant destinations, like Europe or the Americas, despite their dreams of seeing the world. The family's financial situation was comfortable but not without constraints. Kenny and Madison earned an annual income of at least 100,000 MYR, which allowed them to provide for their family and afford these occasional trips. However, Nicholas and Dylan earned less than 100,000 MYR per year, and their contributions to the family were more modest. The grandparents, Adam and Ying, had an income of about 50,000 MYR per year, reflecting their simpler lifestyle in retirement.
Despite the economic challenges, the Liao family was a close-knit unit, always finding ways to support one another. Their combined efforts and hard work allowed them to live a fulfilling life, and the sacrifices they made for the greater good of the family were never in vain. They celebrated their cultural heritage while also embracing the opportunities and challenges of modern life, forging a path that was uniquely their own.
In the years that followed, Nicholas' life would take an unexpected turn, one that would propel him from his humble beginnings into a realm of unimaginable power. Yet, the family values instilled in him would remain the bedrock of his identity. As he embarked on a new journey beyond life itself, the memories of his familyâhis caring father, his nurturing mother, his complex but loyal brother, and his loving grandparentsâwould remain etched in his heart, shaping the destiny he was about to fulfill.
(PROLOGUE TWO END)