The Year of the Phoenix 3012 marked a time of relentless warfare. Multiple wars raged across the lands, driven by greed, power, and the insatiable thirst for the magical crystals that resided within every living being. These crystals, embedded in the hearts of humans and animals, were the cornerstone of magic and power, revered and sought after for their myriad applications. They could be refined into weapons or absorbed to enhance one's abilities, forming the basis of the world's ranking system.
Individuals' ranks were determined by their mastery over their crystal's power, starting from Spirit Apprentice, progressing through Soldier, Knight, and ascending all the way to the exalted rank of Spirit Saint. These ranks not only defined one's strength and magical prowess but also their status and influence within society.
Among the chaos of a recent battle, the soldiers of the Red Moon Empire were tasked with clearing the fields of the fallen. As they moved through the carnage, a chilling sound pierced the air—a baby's scream. The soldiers were shocked to discover a lone infant amidst the bodies, crying out for his deceased mother. Clad in the garb of a medic, she lay lifeless, her protective stance suggesting a futile attempt to shield her child.
But what truly stunned the soldiers was the discovery that this baby, unlike any other, was born without a crystal. In a world where such crystals defined strength and capability, this child was considered disabled, a rarity in their magical society. Yet, this anomaly would mark the beginning of a unique and challenging journey.
"Look, what should we do with this baby?" Kane asked, his voice dripping with disdain. He was a tall, skinny Spirit Soldier, holding the baby upside down by its heel. The infant squirmed and cried, desperately trying to escape. Kane's scarred face and malevolent demeanor only amplified the cruelty of his actions.
Kane's colleague, Ron, chuckled darkly. "Should we absorb the baby's soul?" he suggested, half-joking. This act was a war crime of the highest level, strictly prohibited by the Six Nations—the strongest powers in the world who governed most of the land. Absorbing another's soul could grant power, but it was only effective if the victim's level was higher, except for newborns. Fresh souls held untapped potential.
The two soldiers, being the unscrupulous individuals they were, exchanged a knowing look and silently agreed. They decided to commit this vile act in secret. Using their shadow abilities to disappear from the somewhat deserted battlefield, taking the baby to a secluded cliff.
As they prepared for their dark ritual, Kane inspected the baby closely. To his astonishment and fury, he realized the infant had no crystal. Enraged by this unexpected turn, he snarled, "This worthless creature isn't even worth the effort."
In a fit of anger, Kane hurled the baby over the ledge, sending him plunging into the raging waterfall below.