The story unfolds in a new century.
Modern Earth is home to far more than just humans. Races like vampires, subhumans (beastmen), elves, and dragonkin have emerged. Except for those granted such overwhelming divine power that they could bring about the apocalypse, nearly all accepted races have integrated into society and are simply called "people."
As more races appeared, humanity’s status grew increasingly threatened. Yet, much like Darwin’s theory of evolution, this era of racial diversity saw humans evolve and unlock their potential. Some developed extraordinary abilities, maintaining balance among all races.
But in today’s diverse world, danger lurks everywhere. From cosmic threats like comets and alien invasions to mundane crises like bank robberies and street brawls—peace is fragile. To protect all Earth’s inhabitants, representatives from every race convened. They refined laws to mediate inter-racial disputes and safeguard shared interests. Thus, the Hero Association was born.
The Hero Association—a group that professionalizes the role of "Hero." Its duty? Handling incidents beyond ordinary police capabilities. When a case escalates beyond the "ordinary"—when criminals wield supernatural powers—the Association deploys its Heroes.
True to its name, the Association gathers the most exceptional, capable Heroes from every race. They must be selfless, fearless, and place the people’s safety above their own lives. In return, they earn public acclaim and fair compensation.
Heroes are ranked by Tier and Number. Tiers descend from highest to lowest: First Tier down to Fifth Tier. Numbers run from 1 to 100 within each Tier. Only those with proven heroic deeds qualify for a Tier ranking. The Association reviews these ranks annually.
Above all stands the Zero Tier—nine legendary Heroes whose very existence upholds the dignity of their races. They are the pinnacle of the Hero Association.
Bai Ming and his younger sister, Bai Ruoshui, live in this era.
They grew up in a happy, stable home. Their mother was a teacher; their father, a writer. Nurtured in such warmth, Bai Ming developed a kind heart and fierce sense of justice.
Then, at thirteen, something strange happened.
Returning home one day, he found his parents gone. Only Bai Ruoshui remained, lying weakly on her bed, barely breathing.
Confused and helpless, Bai Ming began to sob quietly. Panic gripped him—until a stranger appeared before him.
"What’s wrong, boy?"
"My sister’s dying! Please… save her!"
Young Bai Ming cried desperately, begging this stranger for help. Ruoshui’s breaths grew fainter. Time slipped away. He had no choice but to plead with the only person here.
The stranger approached Ruoshui, gently touching her forehead. His expression darkened.
"Boy, what’s your name?"
"Bai Ming."
"Listen, Bai Ming. Accept this truth: your sister cannot be saved."
The moment those words left the stranger’s lips, Bai Ming froze. His facial muscles twitched with grief and rage. Tears flooded his eyes.
He’d never witnessed a life begin—yet now he had to accept his sister’s end.
"Please… save her… I beg you…"
Bai Ming dropped to his knees. Without hesitation. Without pride. He knelt before the stranger.
"She’s my only sister! Please… save her… I’m begging you… *please*!"
His voice turned hoarse. He knew it was impossible. But as long as he had strength left, he’d fight for her life.
This stranger was his last hope.
The stranger fell silent.
"Bai Ming," he finally asked, "would you accept an equivalent exchange?"
"Equivalent… exchange?"
"Your life for hers. I can save your sister—but I must take your life in return. Do you agree?"
Faced with this impossible choice, Bai Ming seized the stranger’s right hand without hesitation.
At thirteen, he understood death. But seeing his sister suffer—he chose her without a second thought.
"Save her! Take my life however you want!"
The stranger tilted his head, gazing at the boy with surprise and respect.
"So be it."
He stepped forward—and plunged his hand into Bai Ming’s chest.
"Gurgle—"
Before Bai Ming could scream, darkness swallowed him. He collapsed into a pool of blood.
As he drifted into unconsciousness, the stranger’s voice echoed in his ears:
"Bai Ming, I’ve felt your courage—the will to save your sister. From this day forth, you *will* live as a Hero. This is not a request. It is a demand. When you wake, all will be well. And you will inherit this power… to carry it forward."
