Season Four Conclusion: An Uncertain Beginning

## **An Uncertain Beginning.**

“Time went on after the defeat of Nestria, much as it had for centuries before the reemergence of the Hero Astari. Hadin Al’Shadah prospered, and the Freefolk reveled in adoration of their new celestials. Among some however, doubt began to grow. Had Nestria’s raving been more than fantasy? Was her “Redeemer” truly coming? Grown quiet on the subject the Celestials once again grew for a time distant, unwilling, or perhaps unable to speak on the subject.

Though as the cycle continues, no peace ever lasts on Astoria. Thick black clouds hung over Hadin Al’Shadah, orange lightning forking across their lumbering mass. Astari of all kinds both Freefolk and Hero alike gathered to watch the spectacle. Some convinced this was some great sign from the Celestials, others more ready for a fight. Quickly the camp around the city grew until it seemed nearly all of Astoria was present. Eventually however both fears were proven correct.

From the roiling bank of clouds came a flash of lightning and beam of orange light. With some haste the Astari began to gather around the sight. From amongst their number two hooded figures emerged, bringing themselves to the fore and removing their guise, they were revealed to be the celestials Valgerd and Ghib’Batha. Entreating the Astari to venture with them, the celestials explained the creator Adramelch had tasked them with leading the Astari into a new world, one free of celestial influence that they could make their own.

Together with the Untethered Celestials Valgerd, Lavanthia, Ghib’Batha, and Phelyne a great many Astari chose without hesitation to follow, some having known the Celestials before them in life. Amongst them was the Night Sister Thibie, and ancient and venerable Astari mentioned in some of the very oldest histories. Valgerd offered Thibie something more, a chance to join with her and the other three as part of this new Host. With some reluctance she accepted the choice offered.  History between the two women was clear, but the ease of the matter has led some to speculate on Thibie’s true nature throughout Astorian history.

Pressing that time was of the essence Valgerd then lead her kin and the gathered Astari to a place she called “The Sending Gate”, the nature and purpose of which remains unclear. Valgerd gave warning that the ancient guardians of the structure would awaken, and she required time to consult with the Chronomancer Aetherian, master of the device. Combat was fierce, as the Astari fought once again along side their Celestials. Aetherian gave no word, and the structure began to crumble. Soon, however the Chronomancer’s voice boomed out across the structure, pleading with the Astari to hurry demanding the enter the gate as fast as they could. Though the guardians of the structure barred their path the Astari and Celestials fought valiantly through and as the structure fell upon itself were transported through the gate. These events are unclear in their meaning at best, and have left many to wonder what truly happened that day.”

~Excerpt from "Astari Saga" Volume 4 Chapter 3 By: Sister Rimeweaver Reileya

### Postscript:

“I write these words in the voice of my former mistress. She who has become Ghib’Batha, I venture into these new and unfound lands with hope, because she and her own mentor are with us. I bring with me all that she taught us, my brothers, sisters. I only hope I can preserve all that we were, in the light of all that we will become.”