To understand the world of Astra, one must look to its beginnings, where myth and creation intertwine. In the stories of gods and the shaping of the cosmos lie the truths of who we are, and the echoes of choices that still ripple through the ages.
By Tamiel, guardian of history, wisdom, and knowledge.
[ Zephyrios—Dwelling of Hope ]
The hall was vast and serene, its walls inscribed with sigils that shimmered faintly, as though breathing with the pulse of Astra itself. Elyon had departed to attend his divine duties, but not before unlocking this chamber—an exclusive space he had consecrated for teaching.
At the center stood Tamiel, his form poised with solemn dignity, eyes aglow with austere wisdom. Beside him was Astéria, whose presence radiated a quiet, luminous grace. With a gentle motion of her hands, she summoned an ethereal projection—shifting veils of light and shadow that danced in the air, painting the void with shapes unbound by matter.
The four Chosen Ones watched in silence as Tamiel's voice rose, soft yet resonant, each word echoing as though carved into eternity itself:
"In the ages beyond memory, when neither time nor space had yet taken form, there was only the Ocean of the Void.
In that boundless emptiness, Nothing reigned. No star, no breath, no sound—only the stillness of infinite night.
From this silence arose the first of the primordials, the one who opened his eyes within the abyss. He was as the Void itself: a mantle of shadows veiling the chaos beneath.
Pure darkness, untouched by malice—only the endless night of existence. Cold, hollow, lifeless, eternal. The gods yet to come would name him Nadhëer.
Thus was Astra, in its beginning, no more than shapeless gloom adrift within infinity.
But then, from nowhere, came a blazing heat, fierce as a newborn sun. A brilliance so radiant it pierced the void, disturbing the Lord of Darkness… yet awakening within him a restless wonder."
As his words fell into silence, the projection shimmered: an endless black ocean, pierced suddenly by a burst of fire that painted the shadows in fleeting gold. The Chosen Ones felt the weight of the vision press upon them, as though they themselves stood at the edge of creation.
Tamiel lowered his gaze, allowing the echoes of the tale to sink deep into their minds. His eyes, deep as the very abyss he described, swept briefly across the Chosen—as if to remind them that his story was not a distant myth, but a truth laid upon their shoulders.
Then his voice lingered in the stillness, solemn yet unwavering, each syllable bearing the weight of ages untold:
"It was then that the second primordial emerged—
the incarnation of life and of light, named Astra.
She was the vital source, the first divine essence to take on a tangible form, born of her collision with the Lord of Darkness.
Her warmth shattered the barren chill, and the Ocean of the Void yielded to her flame.
Drawn by her radiance, Nadhëer, sovereign of shadow, went forth to meet her, and in their encounter the void itself began to take shape.
The Darkness grew curious of this being who was his opposite.
Their natures stood in contrast, yet together they were whole.
From their sacred union arose the first stirring of self, the awakening of identity.
And from that convergence came the third primordial—
Matreia, also called Koraia, the hidden foundation of all substance.
She was the veiled representation of the material world, not yet conscious of her own form, yet bearing within her the promise of existence itself.
And so great was Astra's light, so profound her gift, that the universe itself came to bear her name. A tribute eternal: that all who dwell within it might remember that life began with her flame."
As his words resonated through the hall, the ethereal projection shimmered once more: waves of shadow and flame weaving into the outline of a figure vast and formless, her shape elusive, as though carved from the very breath of creation.
It was Adam who finally broke the silence. His voice was steady, yet his eyes betrayed unease.
"Are you telling us that the world is not the work of the One, the Creator of all, but of beings… born from the void itself?"
Tamiel regarded him with quiet patience, his gaze both compassionate and unyielding.
"I do not ask you to abandon what you believe. I only unveil what has been, as it was witnessed, and as it was preserved. Truth wears many garments, Adam, yet its essence is one."
Beside him, Sophia gazed with wide, searching eyes. Awe tempered her doubt, but she leaned closer, whispering almost to herself:
"If all this is true… then perhaps the divine is greater than we ever imagined."
Tamiel's gaze, though distant, seemed to rest upon them all. His tale was not merely history; it was revelation—and the burden of understanding now lay heavy upon the Chosen.
Tamiel's voice deepened, his tone like a current flowing from ages unseen.
"No one can say how much time passed in those first dawns of existence. Yet at last, Matreia—the Mother of material and physical being—awoke to consciousness.
With her awakening came purpose. She stretched forth her will and began to scatter, throughout the vastness of the cosmos, the elements needed for the foundation of the world.
Thus Matreia, the hidden one, rose as a supreme divinity, counted among the three primordials. Though she was the last to emerge, her station was no lesser. Indeed, many gods in the ages to come would possess the strength to rival her… yet none dared. For she is the ink of stability upon which all creation is written.
To challenge her would be to unravel the very fabric of existence."
He paused, and for the first time, a faint smile curved at the corner of his lips. His voice softened, as though drawing closer to them across the centuries.
"Her importance is beyond measure. And perhaps, if fate wills it, you may one day meet her. She dwells in secrecy, preferring solitude, yet she is of a social nature when she chooses to reveal herself.
It was she, in fact, who told us this tale in ages past."
The projection shimmered again, showing vast fragments of light scattering across the darkness, like stars seeded into the void.
The Chosen watched in reverent silence—though unease still lingered in Adam's eyes, and Sophia's breath caught as if she feared the story might overturn all she had ever believed.
Tamiel's voice resonated once more, solemn and deliberate, as the projection pulsed with each word:
"Upon Matreia's full awakening, she began to scatter the elements of existence throughout the void, shaping the very foundations of the cosmos. From this act of divine will arose seven colossal beings — the Titans of the first generation, born to govern the fundamental principles of the universe:
Terrion, Titan of the Earth, embodiment of gravity and unwavering stability.
Aetherion, Titan of the Air, master of winds and the invisible currents that animate life.
Pyrrhos, Titan of Flame, guardian of energy, transformation, and the spark of creation.
Hydrynn, Titan of Water, keeper of seas, rivers, and the eternal flow of life.
Chronalis, Titan of Time, weaver of cycles, memory, and the passage of existence.
Noctyra, Titan of Shadow, preserver of limits, balance, and the boundaries of all things.
Lumira, Titan of Light, illuminator of paths, consciousness, and revelation.
Hana and Clayton exchanged a quiet glance. They could sense, without exaggeration, the presence of an ancient force radiating from these beings. Awe mingled with respect in their minds; never had they witnessed a power so fundamental and eternal.
Adam and Sophia, more reserved, observed with a mixture of curiosity and reflection.
Tamiel continued, his voice a current of ancient wisdom:
"These beings, born of Matreia's will and the sacred convergence of light and darkness, are guardians of the first laws of existence. Their purpose is not to dominate, but to maintain the harmony of the universe — a cosmos now bearing the name of Astra, in eternal tribute to her life and light. Through them, the void was filled with order, substance, and the promise of all that was yet to come."
The ethereal projection shimmered again, weaving the Titans into a still dance of power and equilibrium. Each of the Four Chosen Ones, in their own way, understood that what they saw was not mere myth, but the living memory of creation itself.
Afterward, the Seven Titans, alongside Mother Matreia, had finally provided a model for the first living beings to inhabit the universe. These initial beings, made in the likeness of the Titans, were weaker yet formidable, and in terms of power and essence, they were classified as a semi-divine race.
They were the Giants, beings of immense physical strength, granted dominion over the elements through the Seven Titans. Their power was raw and untamed, their mastery unrefined, and their wisdom still fledgling. Yet they marked the first spark of civilization, a prototype for sentient life, whose existence and actions would later inspire the gods of the second generation.
Through this divine interplay, the concepts of the first generation—order, balance, and elemental force—were set into motion, each acting and reacting in a cycle that fueled the ongoing expansion and evolution of the universe.
Thus, this cycle continued, giving rise to the third generation of gods, as the first prototypes of civilizations began to evolve into fully distinct forms. They were no longer mere prototypes: diverse civilizations had finally taken shape.
Among them, one race particularly caught the attention of the gods: humanity. Through them, the gods were fully stirred, their power and influence growing, fueling the ongoing expansion of the universe. The human race, seemingly disadvantaged compared to other beings, possessed a unique gift: absolute uncertainty. This fragility, this instability, paradoxically became their strength, allowing them to operate at the edge of possibility and the unpredictable, shaping the course of the world in their own way.
Here is the story of Astra. I have briefly summarized it for you, for if I were to recount the entire history, it would take more than a century. Remember this: it is the essence of the myth as you can perceive it here. It is the genesis of the world.
Tamiel paused, his eyes sweeping over each of the Chosen Ones, as if gauging their understanding. Adam met his gaze and felt a shiver of uncertainty mixed with curiosity, while Sophia, captivated, wondered how many truths lay beyond what she had ever known.
As the God of Wisdom and History, I have access to the memory of the world. Of course, I am not the only one with this privilege. These truths are for us, gods of knowledge — open secrets, not hidden, yet far from ordinary. Few mortals could ever wield them, and fewer still would do so wisely.
Hana, leaning forward slightly, pondered the infinite patience and breadth of Tamiel's mind. Clayton, arms crossed over his knees, felt a subtle mixture of admiration and unease, as if this being already knew the end of all paths.
But very well. I have told you the story of the world. That was to give you a glimpse. Now, we must determine what knowledge you need to fulfill your mission.
You may ask me questions, tell me what you wish to learn, and I will guide you as best as I can. I know of combat… Adam allowed himself a faint, skeptical smile, thinking that even a god might exaggerate… yet there was a truth in the air he could not Denny.
So… what is it that you wish to know?
Sophia, observing the calm mastery in Tamiel's presence, realized that even in his boasting, there was something impressive: a quiet confidence, almost reassuring. Hana and Clayton exchanged a subtle glance, a silent acknowledgment of their respect and awe. Adam remained silent, his mind alert, trying to reconcile what he thought he knew with what he had just learned.
I know many things. I do not master them all, but for you… I am, let us say… extraordinary.
And for a fleeting moment, in the stillness of the hall, each Chosen felt the weight and breadth of what he had said, unable to look away or ignore the sheer presence of this being.
"Of course," Tamiel continued, a faint smile tracing his lips, "my dear friend Astéria is here as well, to teach you something crucial for your journey. The power to shape reality itself.
For, by nature, compared to the other living beings of this world, you are still… infants. You have yet to grow. You do not yet know the cultures, the customs, the strengths of this world—whether military, magical, or otherwise. Things you may have dismissed as mere fantasies…
He let his gaze drift slowly across the Chosen Ones. Hana's brow furrowed slightly, her mind racing at the hint of powers beyond comprehension. Clayton's jaw tightened as he struggled to reconcile the idea with what he knew. Adam's eyes narrowed, skeptical but attentive, while Sophia's lips parted slightly, caught between doubt and awe.
I have perceived in your eyes, since the very beginning, a certain… hesitation, a faint skepticism. But that is natural. From the expressions on your faces, it seems clear that such matters are not ordinary in your homeland.
Hana exchanged a glance with Clayton, a silent acknowledgment of the weight of what was said. Even Adam and Sophia, though quieter, felt the subtle pull of anticipation, the hint of knowledge and power beyond their comprehension.
You will, however, grow accustomed. You will learn. And you will come to understand the extraordinary nature of what lies before you."
After sharing the tale of creation and the first beings, Tamiel turned his gaze toward them, more focused and tangible now. It was time to move from story to action, to let words transform into experience, and to prepare the Chosen Ones to embody what they had just learned.
…
Tamiel's words faded into silence, lingering in the air like a promise.
Clayton was the first to speak, voicing the question that lingered in everyone's mind.
— "Lord Tamiel, since you are about to begin your teaching, I would like to know if we will also receive proper physical conditioning, for myself and my companions, as you see fit. I would also like to know the scope of your instruction: how far can you train us, and at what point will we be considered ready?"
His words were simple, direct, and perfectly suited to the situation.
Tamiel allowed himself a faint smile.
— "You have a wise and cautious leader," he said. "Those are very good questions."
He paused briefly, then continued:
— "The purpose of my teaching is clear: to prepare you to face the challenges of this world. I cannot make you invincible, nor grant you divine power, nor bind you to me as disciples. But I can set you on the path, give you a solid foundation. The rest will depend on you—your choices, your effort, and your ability to endure."
A silence followed his words. Adam stood slightly apart, arms crossed, his eyes lowered, yet his thoughts moved quickly. The notion of limits struck him deeply. On one hand, it made sense—better to learn to walk on their own than to rely forever on divine intervention. On the other, a quiet unease gnawed at him: when the time came, would they truly be able to face it on their own?
When Tamiel looked back at them and asked:
— "So? What do you think?"
— We are ready !
The four answered in unison, determination clear on their faces. A faint, approving smile crossed Tamiel's features.
— "Good. My dear Astéria, you will help me put them through the drills later," he said.
Astéria inclined her head, serene and unreadable.
— "Don't worry. With me, you will be able to push them as far as needed," she said calmly.
Tamiel allowed himself a faint nod of approval.
— "Thank you," he added, turning back to the group. "Know this: you will not die. Yet for the week that follows, you will feel as if you might. We begin immediately. But first—your garments."
He studied them as a teacher might note a small oversight.
— "I notice you are still attached to the clothes you arrived in. You have not parted with them, nor asked Elyon for alternatives—perhaps it never occurred to you. You have remained presentable, yes, but you have already been here several days. It is time to change that."
…
Some moments later, the group had changed into new attire. Lightweight outfits, resembling training suits. They were surprised, but considering that gods were at work, this was nothing compared to the methods that would follow.
The suits clung to their bodies, unobtrusive, allowing full freedom of movement. Perfectly suited for training.
"Now that you are dressed," Tamiel began, "physical conditioning is very simple. I have already assessed your bodies, and I must say, you astonish me."
It seemed that, apart from you, Mr. Clayton, the other three had been merely waiting for guidance. To put it plainly, in terms they could understand: your bodies had never been prepared even the slightest challenges of survival. You had never been trained to face a dangerous or difficult situation. You were simple civilians, perhaps even nobles. I do not know all of your history, but I sense that among you, you are ordinary mortals.
Clayton felt a shiver run down his spine. He had been a veteran, familiar with exertion and pain, but this was different: this was no ordinary instructor. This was a god, preparing to train mortals. How far would his methods go? The unknown extent of his abilities made Clayton uneasy.
Adam stood silently, observing. He weighed every word, every intention. Tamiel's promises stirred a mixture of excitement and caution within him. He understood that their limits would be tested, that both body and mind would be pushed further than ever before.
Yet despite the apprehension, a sense of unity arose among them. They would face this together, and each of them sensed that this trial, however intense, would become an essential part of their journey and what they were meant to accomplish.
"You, Mr. Clayton," Tamiel continued, "you radiate the aura of a man seasoned by harsh battles. I can feel your determination, and the experience of a veteran resides within you."
"Indeed, Lord Tamiel," Clayton said, his voice calm but measured, "I was once a soldier, and I left after a few… unpleasant experiences. After that, I built my wealth. But that does not set me apart from the others here. Deep down, we are all merely humans. I have simply lived through more trials, and I am the eldest among us. That is all."
Tamiel nodded slightly, acknowledging the candor of his words.
"Very well said," he said. "As for the three of you," Tamiel continued, addressing the others, "the events ahead will be challenging. Prepare yourselves mentally and physically; this will be no ordinary training."
"I will teach you an art: the Vital Breath, gift of the gods to mortals. It's made in such a way that it will allow you to regulate your physical conditioning and prepare for greater challenges ahead. This art, passed down and perfected by humanity through the ages, will be revealed to you today—in its purest and simplest form, the zero prototype. You will discover how to surpass ordinary human limits but do not be mistaken: mastery demands patience, discipline, and courage, qualities that only the most determined can fully cultivate. "
For a moment, the four Chosen Ones leaned forward, anticipating Tamiel to step closer, to begin demonstrating the art itself. Their eyes followed him, tense with eagerness.
And then, almost as if she had only just remembered, Astéria spoke—her voice calm, casual, and unobtrusive, as though dropping a trivial comment rather than teaching:
"Oh… by the way, Elion forgot to mention, but you haven't noticed yet—you aren't actually speaking the same language. A divine spell was cast on you so you can understand one another.
Consider it a kind of advanced communication. Only gods can do this so effortlessly, except for a few who have studied this art deeply. But for now, you may use this privilege while under our instruction."
Adam blinked, startled. Now that he thought about it, he knew only a little English—enough for greetings and a few rude words. Yet facing an American, a Japanese, and a Frenchwoman, they were conversing flawlessly.
"If we hadn't been told, we'd never have known," he whispered.
He glanced at his companions, seeing surprise etched on their faces. Hana, most visibly shocked, deliberately spoke in measured Japanese toward Sophia, carefully choosing her words, almost testing the magic:
"こんにちは,ソフィアさん…" (Konnichiwa, Sofia-san…)
Sophia blushed slightly, responding with a small smile:
"It… it doesn't change anything. I still understand you perfectly."
Adam shook his head, marveling silently. These gods, indeed, were astonishing.
Clayton, sensing the group's distraction, raised his voice firmly, drawing their attention back:
— "Everyone, don't get sidetracked. Noted, Lord Astéria. We can begin, Lord Tamiel. How will you demonstrate this art to us?"
The shift was immediate. The Chosen Ones refocused, eyes fixed on Tamiel. The weight of anticipation settled again in the hall, the air thick with the promise of lessons yet to unfold.
Tamiel regarded them with his serene, unwavering gaze, a faint smile touching the corners of his lips.
— "Very well. Let us begin. Today, you will witness the first steps to exceeding your own limits."
Tamiel fixed his gaze on the Chosen Ones.
— "It is time to begin your training. What you will face will be difficult, but necessary. Every effort will bring you closer to your limits… and awaken what you still do not know of yourselves."
— "Prepare yourselves. You begin immediately."
Tamiel raised his hand, his finger pointing gently at the four Chosen Ones. A golden glow sprang forth, splitting into four distinct sparks. Each entered silently into the consciousness of one of the chosen, touching their mind, imprinting itself on their being.
The art of the Vital Breath inscribed itself within them without sound, without words, a seed ready to grow.
Yet no one noticed a subtle presence among them, unseen, that had also received the Vital Breath. A quiet change began to stir, sensed only by Inannael.
Tamiel lowered his hand.
— "That concludes the introduction. The rest will depend on your own efforts. In two hours, you will undertake a series of trials to put into practice what I have imparted."
______________
reader,
Welcome once again to the world of Astra. As you step into this chapter, know that you are about to witness the whispers of creation itself, the echoes of gods and primordial forces shaping a universe beyond imagination.
I must confess, my writing tools have changed—my computer is no longer with me, and so these chapters arrive to you through the careful work of mobile hands. This may cause slight delays, but rest assured: the journey continues, and each chapter will reach you, ready to unfold the story we share.
Thank you for your patience, and for venturing ever deeper into Astra…
And sorry I forgot to put this:
Vital Breath levels and effects:
Level 0 — Awakened Breath (Prototype)
• Stabilizes heartbeat and respiration
• Basic posture, balance, and tension awareness
• Accessible to most humans, but rarely practiced correctly
Level 1 — Core Breath
• Enhanced endurance and fluidity of movement
• Optimization of natural strengths (force, agility, reflexes)
• Rarely mastered, forms the foundation of all further training
Level 2 — Flowing Breath
• Sustained effort with minimal fatigue
• Complex coordination under stress
• Advanced deployment of individual strengths
Level 3 — Harmonic Breath
• Near-supernatural control over body and mind
• Coordinated movement, energy, and breath at peak potential
• Effects on magic or environment remain mysterious and subtle
• Achievable by very few; mastery hints at divine-like capability