Soulless in Astraea

The factory bell rang at dawn, its shrill cry cutting through the perpetual haze of coal smoke

that blanketed Astraea's industrial district. Kael Varin pulled himself from the thin mattress on

the floor, careful not to wake his parents in the next room. The small house

creaked with age, but it was home—more than most soulless could claim. He splashed cold

water on his face from the basin, watching his reflection waver in the dim light.

Gray-blue eyes stared back at him, tired despite his nineteen years. His right arm bore

no mark, no glow, no proof that the gods had blessed him with a soul.

Just pale skin, unmarred and empty. *Soulless.*