In the Falling Star Empire, far from the gleaming palaces and grand flying ships, there existed another world.
Broken cobblestones. Rotten timber shacks. The stench of filth and despair.
And among them was him—a commoner so lowly his name barely mattered to those around him.
He was a servant in the Quan household, a Cultivator Clan, respected by many.
His job was simple: sweep the floors, scrub the stables, polish the boots. A dog's duty. And yet, even dogs were often treated better.
His wages were nothing—just enough gruel to keep him from starving.
His back bore the scars of years of lashes. He had long since stopped counting.
What else could he do?
This was his fate. A commoner's life, worth less than mud.
That day, however, was worse than any before.
The young master of the Quan family, infamous for his cruelty, had lost a wager.
His fury demanded an outlet, and who better than the worthless servant who stood closest at hand?
