Starfire City's skyline was shattered by towering buildings that pierced the clouds. Their surfaces gleamed with a cold metallic sheen, while flying cars left pale blue energy trails as they weaved nimbly between the towers. The clamor of breaking air blanketed the entire city from above.
In stark contrast to the prosperity overhead, the streets at ground level were nearly empty, with most pedestrians hurrying along. Only a small alley in a corner of the city stood utterly at odds with the surrounding cleanliness and order.
It was dark and damp here. Rotten trash had piled up against the walls, murky sewage wound through cracks in the stone slabs, and the pungent stench mixed with mildew could be smelled from far away. Ordinary people avoided the place like the plague.
A skinny Player approached the entrance to the alley furtively, panic written all over his face.
He had barely taken two steps when an ugly, vicious face abruptly emerged from the shadows. Thick brows stood on end above a fleshy face, and a fan-sized hand shot out and barred his path.
"Purpose!" The hoarse voice rasped like sandpaper, devoid of any unnecessary emotion.
The skinny Player's throat bobbed as he swallowed nervously. His fingertips trembled slightly, but he still forced himself to remain calm and lowered his voice. "T-trade resources!"
"Which floor?" The voice remained icy as its owner scrutinized the skinny Player.
"F-first floor!" The skinny Player did not dare raise his head. He answered quickly, fine beads of sweat already forming on his forehead.
The man in the shadows looked him over, his gaze pausing briefly on his face. He had clearly seen that the man was far older than eighteen, and undisguised contempt immediately appeared in his eyes. He snorted and spat out a single cold word.