Balance is the judge of all things. Thus read the first sentence of the book. As the woman picked it up from her bedside, the worn and old leather surface reflected her apprehension. Opening it once again, she marveled at the careful and refined stroke that each letter possessed. It was as if the utmost care was given to every single word, in a fashion most thoughtful and dignified. On the back cover, a small slip, she read.

As you have requested of me, my dearest,

This book is my account, in its better form, for words sometimes lack weight for what one truly wishes to express. For a long time, throughout our letters, I wondered whether it was appropriate for me to narrate to you his story. As you are aware, he came blessed and cursed not from here, but from the earth. This world, as well as ours, are but reflections to the nature of our own perception. Bear in mind that, throughout your reading, some passages might trouble you or make you uneasy. Let that not deter you! As I see you now, you are ready to learn the truth. Do not hurt yourself with pointless thoughts, for those who have have fallen mad and morbid. Do take care of yourself, as goodness starts with ourselves.

With much love.

And as such, she opened the book:

***

Balance is the judge of all things.

The truest and oldest rule by which we are governed. Such that it was understood by ancients in law and trade. Today, much is different, although the most basic understanding of this principle stays true throughout all natural law.

This story is my recollection of the early life of a man whom throughout years and multiple lands saw the world. He came to be known by all. Hated by all. Envied by all. For nothing but circumstances out of his control. He was cursed yet he was purest. What they called an "angel". And thus, he was born onto earth, the poor child. His father, a soldier in service of the country of France. His mother, a seamstress' daughter, whom, out of financial need, turned to prostitution in the low town markets. After hearing of the affair, the soldier's wife could not bear the weight of it, they grew apart. Frustrated, he came to learn that the woman with whom he engaged that night was to bear his son. A bastard. This enraged him. In the middle of the night a child was born. Maids carrying him through the streets, as rats in the nights.