By the age of six, he had already begun basic combat training under his father's warriors. Unlike other children who were merely taught to wield a wooden spear for self-defense, he demanded more. He learned not only how to fight but also how to analyze an opponent's movements, predict their attacks, and exploit weaknesses.
The warriors, at first, had scoffed at training a boy so young. That was until he bested one of the older trainees in a practice duel. His ability to observe and counter his opponent's movements shocked even the most experienced fighters. But he knew that physical strength alone would not be enough to forge an empire.
He sought out Mabini, a young scholar trained under the elders. Though initially hesitant to teach a child, Mabini was soon drawn into Louigi's relentless curiosity. Together, they studied the histories of powerful rulers, military strategies from Chinese, Indian, and even Islamic texts that made their way to Tondo through trade. He committed these to memory, cross-referencing them with his knowledge of world history from his past life.
His biggest lesson: Power was built on knowledge as much as the sword.
By the time he turned eight, he had begun gathering key individuals to his side. His natural charisma, backed by his growing reputation, made others take notice. Among those who would shape his future were:
Bagani – A fierce warrior and son of a well-respected chieftain, who saw potential in Louigi's unconventional battle tactics. Though initially skeptical, he became one of Louigi's closest allies.
Haliya – A healer and herbalist, whose understanding of medicine proved invaluable. She taught Louigi about poisons, battlefield remedies, and the importance of maintaining his soldiers' health.
Tala – The daughter of a merchant, who understood the importance of trade. With her help, Louigi learned the art of negotiation and how wealth could be just as powerful as an army.
Lakan Dula – A wise elder and statesman, who took an interest in Louigi's ideas on governance and strategy. He became a mentor, advising Louigi on how to unite the scattered datus under one rule.
Each of these individuals had something to offer, and Louigi made sure to learn from them all.
As Louigi's knowledge expanded, so too did his System. On his ninth birthday, a notification appeared before him:
[System Upgrade]
New Stats Unlocked: Charisma, Leadership, and Diplomacy
New Skills Available: Tactical Warfare, Economic Mastery, and Psychological Warfare
New Quest Added: Forge the Foundation of an Empire
[Quest: Forge the Foundation of an Empire]
Objective: Establish control over at least three allied settlements
Reward: +10 Intelligence, +10 Leadership, Access to Advanced Military Formations
Louigi's heart pounded as he read through the updates. It was clear now—the System was pushing him toward a greater destiny. It was no longer just about survival. It was about conquest.
Despite his age, Louigi began advising his father on political matters. His idea,unheard of in Tondo's traditional system,were radical but effective. He proposed trade agreements that benefited both parties rather than relying on sheer force. He established a small group of scouts to gather intelligence on potential enemies and allies.
His father, recognizing his son's wisdom, began to grant him more responsibilities. By ten, Louigi was leading small groups of warriors on minor skirmishes against raiders, testing his strategies in real combat. His unconventional tactics,using ambushes, diversions, and psychological warfare,baffled his enemies and won him small but significant victories.
The legend of the young strategist began to spread.Many call him the "The little tyrant",though they saw him as just a child, his ability to outmaneuver them made it clear,he was no ordinary boy.