Pierre Dimaculangan is a digital artist, designer, and author of Trials of the Middle Kingdom series. He was born in Manila and grew up in Queens, New York. He’s a lover of world history and Chinese culture and civilization. He loves to read, conquer story-driven video games, play drums, and practice Muay Thai and Parkour. He’s currently pursuing a master’s in history at Harvard University Extension School. 

Follow the story of a legendary wandering swordsman and a political cabal of vigilantes known as the Martial Scholars as they investigate the maritime arrival of a mysterious nonhuman military force. A thorough investigation reveals the truth about their agenda as well as a conspiracy against the emperor and the entire Ming Empire. Through careful planning and utilization of their deep network, they succeed in warning the emperor who then prepares the nation for the possibility of war. First however, he must quell the Underworld where rebel groups and secret societies have risen against him, and conspire with the nonhuman foreigners to create a new world order. Together with a motley crew of misfits, the legendary swordsman ventures into the Underworld to discover the deeper plans of the enemy. His new friend, an enigmatic sage, insists that the real battle is, in fact, a spiritual one, and that victory lies only through following the will of Heaven.

Trials of the Middle Kingdom

Zuo Shilong and Buff Baby found the shore after being dragged by the steady current of the river for what felt like ages. They pulled themselves onto the murky ground and could hardly find the strength to stand. Buff Baby lay on his back trying to catch his breath. He began to chuckle and giggle and within moments it escalated into a full-blown bellowing laugh. 


"You find this very amusing, do you?" Zuo Shilong said to him somewhat irritated. 


"Well, I'll tell you something, someone with my built and frame should never get into the water! Hahahah," said Buff Baby. He was, in truth, greatly relieved to be alive, having been able to escape the clutches of a bloodthirsty demoniac deep in the wilderness, and having survived the huge drop into the gorge soon after. "Don't get me wrong, Monk. I still don't like you much... but I am grateful that you've bailed me out of such a dishonorable demise. I owe you one."


Chapter 25: A Turn of Events