Wang Ming sat cross-legged on his bed, meditating in silence. The familiar knock at the door broke the stillness. Without opening his eyes, he spoke coldly,
"What is it now?"
The door creaked open, and a middle-aged maid entered, her posture cautious, voice trembling slightly,
"Young Master, the clan leader has sent a representative with gifts. He has also instructed you to visit the clan hall this evening."
Wang Ming remained silent for a moment, after thinking and weighting pros and cons . Finally, he spoke, his tone indifferent,
"Fine. Go and accept the gifts. Tell the representative I will attend."
The maid, not daring to question further, quickly bowed and left. As her figure disappeared, Wang Ming's gaze lingered where she had stood, his mind churning with thoughts.
The clan assigns a maid proficient in mortal martial arts to every offspring of a Rank Two Formation Apprentice. Their role is simple—protect the young master from dying before reaching maturity. Even one percent talent is valuable to the clan, given that only two to three thousand formation apprentices exist. Assassinations are not uncommon; rival apprentices prefer to send mortal martial artists to eliminate potential threats before they blossom."
His lips curled into a faint, almost imperceptible smile.
"These maids shield the children from such threats until they can protect themselves. Their loyalty is often rewarded; they become concubines or close aides when their charge matures. On the other hand, if the child fails to awaken during the ceremony, there are two choices— or become a menial disciple and work for the clan or if she is young, she can choose other children as well. as for their masters their situation is no good they can either become guards of the clans or if they have high-level relatives, then cling to them and live in the clan for their lifetime as stepping out of the clan would mean death by those of their family ( parents) enemies ."
Wang Ming's gaze hardened. ".They tie their lives to their master's fate—whether it soars high or falls to the dust."
Time passed, and the sun dipped below the horizon. Evening had arrived. Wang Ming rose from his bed, his movements slow but deliberate. He approached his wardrobe, selected a simple but dignified outfit, and dressed himself. Stepping out, he noticed his maid waiting outside, bowing, a fresh bandage wrapped around her forehead.
"Come with me," Wang Ming ordered.
A flicker of joy appeared on the maid's face, and she responded with unexpected enthusiasm,
"Yes, young master! I won't let you down this time!"
Wang Ming didn't respond, his gaze passing over her as if she were merely a fleeting shadow. Without another word, he strode forward, the maid hurrying to follow.