《The Epic of Astashica》 Tlandar鈥檚 Journey Begins Scene 1: The Call of Astashica Tlandar was a halfling¡ªan Asemtek, born of both Asemeri and human heritage. Standing nearly six feet tall, he possessed striking light blue eyes and medium-length blonde hair. He lived a humble life as a farmer and rancher in Verdantis Nexus, a small agricultural village on the outskirts of New Asemeri, within the territory of Val¡¯katl. Dressed in a simple dark green, sleeved V-necked cotton shirt, he spent his days tending cattle alongside his family. One afternoon, as he herded his livestock near the riverbanks, guiding them to drink from the water holes, a phenomenon beyond his understanding unfolded before him. A radiant, light-blue and white orb¡ªa holographic projection¡ªmanifested in the air, pulsating with an otherworldly glow. Tlandar¡¯s three sisters were nearby, unaware of his whereabouts, their laughter echoing softly through the meadows. The orb of Astashica, the intelligence of the planet itself, addressed him in a voice both ancient and commanding. "Tlandar, brave soul of the farmland. Behold. I am Astashica. I need your help." Tlandar froze, his breath caught in his throat. Never before had he encountered something so extraordinary. His mind raced, trying to comprehend the vision before him. "Who¡­ who are you?" he asked hesitantly. The orb pulsed, its light intensifying. "I am the collective consciousness of the Ancient Acherons, the hidden guardians of Astashica. We dwell beneath the surface, within our forbidden city, watching over the planet¡¯s survival. Long ago, we terraformed this world, shaping it into what it is today. We present ourselves in this form so that you may see only what truly matters¡ªand not fear what is beyond your understanding." A brief silence followed before the hologram continued. "Tlandar, the fate of this planet now rests in your hands. An impending catastrophe approaches¡ªone that threatens to consume Astashica in fire and ruin. The Asemeri overlords, warrior chieftains from the collapsed Xothek Empire, rule with cruelty. But among them, one stands above all others¡ªa tyrant whose ambition knows no bounds. Chieftain Cosmus commands the Defiance Vanguard, an ancient Xothek warship. He possesses three Azurevat missiles, each capable of unleashing one gigaton of destructive power. Even one missile would be enough to reduce Astashica to ashes. The weight of the words settled heavily upon Tlandar¡¯s chest. The planet itself was calling him¡ªchoosing him. "You hold the power to prevent this catastrophe, Tlandar." The orb flickered before continuing. "But you will not be alone. You will find allies in this fight. Behold, one such warrior¡ªa protector from the land of Salgar." Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. A bolt of lightning struck beneath a towering banyan tree in the distance. From the flash of energy, a figure emerged¡ªa woman, materializing as if woven together by the very storm itself. She rose from the ground, her form solidifying¡ªAkashma Xil¡¯ha, a Salgaran operative, half Asemeri, half human. Steadying herself, she stepped forward and regarded Tlandar with piercing hazel eyes. "Greetings, Tlandar. I am Akashma Xil¡¯ha." Her voice was calm, unwavering. "You do not yet understand what is to come. But you will. You must come with me¡ªto the Sanctum of Orchids. There, you will learn what must be done, and the path you must take." She was clad in a dark red cloak, her kuprix armor concealed beneath its flowing fabric. Along her waist, barely visible, was a set of kuprix throwing daggers¡ªweapons of precision and lethality. Tlandar studied her for a moment, then nodded. "I will help. I know what Cosmus is¡ªa tyrant who seeks to rule this world through war and oppression. I have heard of his military campaigns, his so-called Asemeri Wars of Supremacy. Many Asemteks want no part in this conflict, but Cosmus and his warlords enslave us, ruling through fear. I will stand against them." The orb of Astashica pulsed in response. "You have chosen wisely, Tlandar. History will remember your name for the deeds you will accomplish. I will continue to guide you in moments of great need, but for now, you must go with Akashma. Your journey begins, and in time, you will become the Protector of Astashica." A sudden surge of lightning and energy erupted from the orb, illuminating the sky. And then¡ªjust as suddenly as it had appeared¡ªthe hologram of Astashica vanished. Tlandar turned to Akashma, determination in his gaze. "Let¡¯s go."
Scene 2: Departure to the Sanctum of Orchids Tlandar climbed back up the riverbanks, making his way to where his three sisters sat, still unaware of what had transpired. They were laughing, playing in the meadow, their innocence untouched by the weight of the world¡¯s impending war. He approached them with Akashma at his side. "My beloved sisters," he said, his voice carrying both warmth and urgency. "This is Akashma Xil¡¯ha. She has come to warn me of a great danger approaching our world. I must leave for now, but you must understand¡ªthis is not a choice. It is a duty. I must fight to stop the threat that looms over Astashica." His sisters¡¯ expressions shifted from confusion to concern. "Tlandar, what are you talking about?" Seriya, the eldest, asked. He took a deep breath. "Cosmus has waged war against the free peoples of this world. He seeks to rule all of Astashica, and if no one stops him, he will unleash destruction upon everything we hold dear. I have been called upon to stand against him." His sisters looked at one another, absorbing the weight of his words. "But what about us?" Nelia asked softly. Tlandar stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Go home to Mother and Father. Tell them I will return¡ªbut when I do, I will be ready. They will prepare me for war, train me to fight. When I return, I will be the champion of Astashica. I will bring light to this world, a world consumed by darkness. Cosmus will not win." His sisters remained silent for a long moment. Then, Seriya nodded. "Then go. And come back to us, Tlandar." He pulled them into a final embrace, holding onto the warmth of home for one last moment. Then, from behind them, a sleek, four-thruster Verdan-class Salgaran transport ship uncloaked, its hull shimmering as it reappeared. The vessel hovered in place, awaiting its passengers. Tlandar turned to Akashma. She nodded. Together, they boarded the ship. The transport smoothly ascended, vanishing once more as its cloaking systems engaged, disappearing into the skies with a thunderous boom. Tlandar¡¯s journey had begun. And the fate of Astashica would never be the same.
The Journey to the Sanctum of Orchids Arrival in Drak¡¯Zir Village The Salgaran transport ship descended smoothly toward the spaceport of Drak¡¯Zir Village, a remote settlement in Salgar territory. Situated near the Sanctum of Orchids, the capital of the Salgar City-State, Drak¡¯Zir served as both a trading hub and a gateway to the mountain stronghold beyond. As the hangar¡¯s upper gates retracted, the transport glided downward with precision, landing gently on a circular stone platform at the center of the port. Though sleek and efficient, the spacecraft appeared almost dwarfed by the massive landing structure that surrounded it. Inside the vessel, Akashma turned to Tlandar. ¡°This is our first stop before continuing to the Sanctum of Orchids,¡± she explained. ¡°We are now within Salgar¡¯s territory, but tread carefully. This village is quiet¡ªsecluded from the rest of the world. It is the perfect place to prepare for our journey ahead. Be vigilant, stay close to me, and follow my lead. They will likely be expecting us outside.¡± Tlandar peered through the viewing panel. The spaceport was eerily silent. ¡°It¡¯s very quiet,¡± he observed. The Salgaran pilot moved toward the spacecraft¡¯s exit, pausing for a moment. ¡°Well done, Akashma,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll return to my post now. Safe travels to both of you. May fortune favor your path.¡± With that, he stepped inside the cockpit. The transport¡¯s thrusters ignited, lifting the craft smoothly into the air. It ascended swiftly, disappearing past the spaceport¡¯s opening gates, which promptly sealed shut behind it. Without hesitation, Akashma led Tlandar toward the exit gate of the landing hangar. Approaching the electronic access panel, she swiftly entered a sequence of coded commands. The massive steel doors groaned as they slid open, revealing a dimly lit corridor ahead. The gate locked behind them with a resounding metallic clang.
Through the Spaceport¡¯s Corridors The corridor stretched endlessly, its high-arched ceilings and dim lighting casting elongated shadows across the polished metallic floors. It served as a central hub, branching into numerous passageways that connected different sectors of the Drak¡¯Zir spaceport. Tlandar glanced around, taking in the scale of the structure. ¡°This place is enormous,¡± he murmured. ¡°It has to be,¡± Akashma replied. ¡°This corridor leads to every part of the spaceport, including storage bays, security outposts, and supply docks. Ships from all over Salgar pass through here to trade and refuel.¡± Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. They walked in silence, passing by dozens of sealed gates along the way, each leading to a different part of the complex. The air smelled faintly of engine lubricant and cooled metal, remnants of the ships that had passed through before them. Finally, they reached the far end of the corridor, where another reinforced gate blocked their path. Akashma approached the digital access panel and quickly input a second security code. With a soft mechanical chime, the gate unlocked and slowly parted, revealing the world outside.
Stepping into Drak¡¯Zir Village As they stepped through the gate, the atmosphere shifted instantly. The cold, metallic sterility of the spaceport was replaced with the warm, earthy scent of the village air. The stone pathways of Drak¡¯Zir stretched ahead, lined with wooden market stalls, stone buildings, and small gathering plazas bustling with activity. Akashma led the way. ¡°Welcome to Drak¡¯Zir Village, Tlandar,¡± she said. ¡°This is a Salgaran port settlement¡ªsmall, but essential. It serves as a waypoint for traders, travelers, and those journeying to the Sanctum of Orchids.¡± Tlandar took in the village¡¯s charm, its mix of rugged simplicity and hidden sophistication. Though primarily a trade hub, Drak¡¯Zir boasted marketplaces, taverns, and supply stations, all catering to the needs of those passing through. Akashma gestured toward the towering mountain range looming in the distance. ¡°Beyond those mountains lies our destination,¡± she continued. ¡°The Sanctum of Orchids is hidden deep within them. No roads lead there, no maps mark its location. Those who attempt to find it without a guide never return.¡± Tlandar studied the distant peaks, their sheer cliffs wrapped in veils of mist and shadow. ¡°That¡¯s our path?¡± he asked. ¡°Yes,¡± Akashma nodded. ¡°We will climb through those mountains by foot. But first, we should eat. Drak¡¯Zir is known for its food¡ªsimple, but excellent. We should take the opportunity to rest before our journey.¡± Tlandar glanced back at the village. ¡°Then let¡¯s get something to eat and prepare for the climb.¡±
Salgaran Cuisine & Rest Before the Journey The village bustled with life as Tlandar and Akashma made their way through its narrow streets. The scent of roasting meats, freshly baked bread, and simmering stews filled the air, drawing them toward the heart of the marketplace. They browsed the stalls, taking in the vibrant displays of local goods¡ªdried spices, woven fabrics, polished gemstones, and intricate handcrafted weapons. Tlandar purchased a sturdy rucksack, filling it with travel essentials and fresh food from the market. Akashma, ever disciplined, carried only what she needed, already familiar with the terrain ahead. As twin suns sank behind the mountains, they sought lodging for the night. At a modest but well-kept lodge, they rented a room for ten kuprix, securing a comfortable space with ample room and a clear view of the mountains beyond. Tlandar set his rucksack down beside the bed and exhaled. ¡°This place is nice,¡± he admitted. Akashma inspected the room with a nod. ¡°It will do for the night. Eat, rest, and prepare. There is a bath if you wish to use it. Tomorrow, we climb.¡± She pointed toward the window. Through it, the shrouded peaks of the Salgaran Mountains stood in the fading twilight, their silhouettes casting long shadows across the land. Tlandar settled into his bed, removing a small leather-bound journal from his belongings. Under the dim lantern light, he began writing¡ªrecording the first steps of his journey. Ascent Through the Salgaran Heights

Breakfast in the Drak¡¯Zir Marketplace

Tlandar and Akashma awoke at dawn in the modest lodge where they had stayed the previous night. Gathering their belongings¡ªrucksacks, provisions, maps, and essential supplies¡ªthey made their final adjustments before departing. As they passed the lodge¡¯s front desk, they returned their keys. ¡°Thank you,¡± Tlandar said politely to the receptionist before stepping outside. The village of Drak¡¯Zir was beginning to stir as they made their way toward the marketplace, where merchants were preparing for another busy day. They sought a final meal before beginning their arduous climb into the Salgaran Mountains. Akashma soon spotted a street kitchen nestled among the vendor stalls. The scent of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filled the air. ¡°This looks promising,¡± Tlandar said, nodding toward the stall. They took their seats on round stools, where a waitress promptly approached them. ¡°What would you like to order?¡± she asked attentively. ¡°We¡¯ll have two breakfasts,¡± Tlandar replied. ¡°Here¡¯s the menu,¡± she said, handing them a parchment with a list of meals. ¡°I¡¯ll take eggs, sausage, and hot chocolate,¡± Akashma said. ¡°I¡¯ll have the same,¡± Tlandar added. With a nod, the waitress returned to the kitchen, and the cook began preparing their meals. Tlandar gazed up at the towering peaks in the distance. ¡°Akashma, what awaits us in those mountains? What will happen when we reach the summit?¡± Akashma¡¯s expression grew serious. ¡°The mountains are home to creatures native to Astashica, not brought here by the Asemeri. Some are highly predatory. We must remain vigilant¡ªthey will not hesitate to attack if we intrude upon their territory. I am trained to handle them, but you are not. Stay close and follow my lead.¡± She paused, then continued, her tone softening. ¡°Beyond these mountains lies the Sanctum of Orchids, a hidden village where trade flourishes. Merchants from all across Salgar travel there, even some from Val¡¯katl. But its exact location is known only to those who live there. The Sanctum is meant to remain unseen by outsiders. It thrives in secrecy, preserving what truly matters.¡± Their conversation was interrupted by the return of the waitress, who placed their meals before them. ¡°Enjoy,¡± she said before stepping back to attend to other customers. Tlandar exhaled, steadying himself for the journey ahead. ¡°After this meal, we begin our climb.¡± The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

The Mountain Ascent

With their hunger satisfied, Akashma and Tlandar left the marketplace and made their way toward the base of the Salgaran Mountains. The towering peaks loomed above them, shrouded in drifting mist. They began their ascent along a winding, uneven trail, their boots crunching against the rocky terrain. The path was treacherous, weaving through jagged cliffs and sheer inclines. They moved carefully, navigating each ledge with precision. After hours of relentless climbing, they reached the summit of the first mountain. Three more lay ahead, connected by narrow rope bridges that swayed precariously in the wind. With measured steps, they crossed the first, then the second, and finally the third¡ªeach bridge an ancient relic of the Salgaran wayfarers who once traversed these heights. Upon reaching the final peak, the landscape changed. The dense rainforest canopy concealed the sunlight, casting eerie shadows upon the ground. A chilling stillness settled over the land. Then, they sensed it. Something had been watching them.

The Stalker in the Trees

A Xel¡¯Quari, an apex predator of the Salgaran wilds, emerged from the foliage. It had been trailing them unseen, concealed within the treetops, its chameleon-like skin blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Now, it stepped forward, its movements measured and predatory. The creature stood ten feet tall, its elongated snout lined with a hundred serrated teeth, its powerful hands ending in deadly curved claws. Its two round, crimson eyes, encircled by black irises, locked onto them with chilling intelligence. It crouched low, one clawed hand pressed against the earth, coiled like a predator prepared to strike. ¡°Tlandar¡ªwatch out!¡± Akashma warned. Tlandar rolled behind a thick tree, taking cover beneath its hanging branches. Akashma reacted swiftly, hurling three Kuprix throwing daggers toward the beast. The Xel¡¯Quari evaded effortlessly, its movements an unpredictable blur. Zigzagging through the underbrush, it released a guttural growl that distorted into an eerie, chittering laugh, almost mocking them. Then, with inhuman agility, it lunged into the air, sinking its claws into the bark of a towering tree. Within seconds, it vanished into the canopy, its chameleon-like skin blending seamlessly with the shadows. It was no longer visible¡ªbut it was there. High above, the leaves rustled unnaturally. Then came a sharp, burning sensation. ¡°The air smells peppery!¡± Tlandar gasped, his eyes stinging from the creature¡¯s presence. ¡°Yes! My eyes burn as well!¡± Akashma said, shielding her vision. The Xel¡¯Quari¡¯s venomous musk had saturated the air¡ªbut now, it was dissipating, the creature having shifted deeper into the treetops. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here¡ªnow!¡± Tlandar called from his cover. Akashma nodded. ¡°Move cautiously. It could still be near.¡± Treading lightly, they proceeded through the rainforest, their senses heightened. Every movement in the treetops sent waves of tension through them, but they could not see the predator. Tlandar tightened his grip on his rucksack. ¡°I don¡¯t see it¡­¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean it¡¯s gone,¡± Akashma whispered.

Reaching Safety

Their escape led them down a steep incline, where the dense jungle gradually gave way to an open clearing. Before them, nestled against the mountainside, was a tribal village¡ªelevated wooden huts with thatched conical rooftops, their foundations resting upon tall stilts. ¡°We made it,¡± Tlandar breathed. Akashma exhaled, scanning the treetops one final time. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for this village¡­ we would already be dead.¡± Behind them, the forest remained eerily silent, the Xel¡¯Quari unseen¡ªbut never forgotten. The hunt was over¡­ for now. Zha鈥橯uari Village A Refuge in the Mountains Akashma and Tlandar had reached Zha¡¯Quari Village, a secluded tribal settlement nestled deep within the Salgaran Mountains. They had narrowly escaped the Xel¡¯Quari, the relentless predator that had been stalking them. ¡°I thought we were done for,¡± Tlandar exhaled, still catching his breath. Akashma glanced at him with a knowing smirk. ¡°That¡¯s natural¡ªfor you. You¡¯ve never faced the true dangers of Astashica. But I was trained for this. These threats are second nature to me.¡± Tlandar shook his head, still in awe. ¡°Let¡¯s keep moving. I don¡¯t want to stand around and wait for another creature to find us.¡± The two pressed forward, stepping onto the village¡¯s main path, where they found themselves surrounded by hundreds of Temsek villagers going about their daily routines. The air was thick with the scent of cooked meats, fresh herbs, and smoldering firewood. The village center was marked by a great communal fireplace, where a large cauldron bubbled over a roaring flame. A villager stirred the thick stew, its fragrant aroma drifting through the settlement. Despite the sense of peace, Tlandar remained alert. The Salgarans of this village were skilled survivors, hardened by the mountain¡¯s dangers. Even here, vigilance was paramount. ¡°We should keep moving,¡± Akashma said. ¡°We¡¯re close now.¡± Leaving Zha¡¯Quari Village behind, they entered a forested trail¡ªthe final stretch leading to their destination: The Sanctum of Orchids.

The Sanctum of Orchids

As they ascended the path, monumental pillars began to emerge from the dense jungle, towering on either side of the cobblestone road. Each ancient column was entwined with lush vines and exotic flora, their surfaces adorned with intricate carvings depicting legends of the Asemeri race and the rise and fall of the Xothek Empire. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. ¡°This road leads directly to the Sanctum of Orchids,¡± Akashma said. ¡°We¡¯re nearly there¡ªno turning back now.¡± Tlandar studied her expression. ¡°You seem familiar with this place.¡± Akashma nodded. ¡°Of course. This is my home.¡± A strange sense of calm settled over Tlandar. The looming tension from the Xel¡¯Quari encounter faded, replaced by something else¡ªa feeling of sanctuary. ¡°There¡¯s no danger here, at least not until we reach the Sanctum¡¯s gates,¡± Akashma continued. ¡°If the Xel¡¯Quari had followed us, the Salgaran scouts would have already seen it, and a war party would have driven it back into the shadows.¡± Tlandar hesitated. ¡°You¡¯re telling me those monsters¡ªthe Xel¡¯Quari¡ªfear something?¡± Akashma gave him a sharp glance. ¡°They fear us.¡± She gestured toward the distant entrance of the Sanctum of Orchids, where two Salgaran warriors stood guard. Their dark red cloaks fluttered in the wind, and beneath them, their kuprix armor gleamed with a dull, obsidian sheen. Each warrior held a long spear, its bladed tip glinting in the dim light. ¡°These are the Sanctum¡¯s defenders¡ªscouts trained under Chieftain Salgar herself,¡± Akashma explained. ¡°They are among the finest warriors in Salgar, raised to repel incursions from rogue Asemeri chieftains and any who dare trespass into these lands.¡± Tlandar exhaled, taking it all in.

The Gates of the Sanctum

As they reached the towering guard post, one of the female warriors stepped forward. She lowered her spear slightly but held her ground, her piercing gaze fixed on Akashma. ¡°Welcome home, Akashma,¡± she said. Akashma nodded in greeting, and the warriors stepped aside, parting the way for them to pass. Beyond the sentries, they entered the final village of their journey. Unlike Zha¡¯Quari, this settlement was larger, busier, and more structured¡ªa true gateway to the hidden city beyond. At the far end of the village, carved into the face of a colossal mountain, stood the Sanctum of Orchids'' grand gate. It was a massive pair of stone doors, seamlessly embedded into the rock. The engravings upon them told stories of forgotten legends, unbroken oaths, and the silent watchers who had guarded these lands for centuries. Tlandar stared in awe. ¡°Akashma¡­ this is it,¡± he whispered. ¡°This is the Sanctum of Orchids.¡± Akashma turned to him with a small smile. ¡°Prepare yourself, Tlandar. We¡¯re about to enter the heart of Salgar.¡± Tlandar clenched his fists, excitement building within him. ¡°Then let¡¯s not keep it waiting.¡±
Tlandar鈥檚 Mission Begins Akashma and Tlandar stepped into the Sanctum of Orchids village, where life thrived in a harmonious blend of commerce, scholarship, and tradition. Traders, merchants, and scholars moved with purpose, while artisans and farmers tended to their crafts. Along the main thoroughfare, vendor stalls overflowed with goods, leading toward the grand gates of the Sanctum itself. As they approached, two Salgaran guards stood at attention. The moment they recognized Akashma, they stepped aside, nodding in acknowledgment as they opened the gates. "Welcome home, Akashma," one of the guards greeted her. Without a word, Akashma led Tlandar forward. Beyond the gates, a majestic palace rose before them, its vast halls upheld by hundreds of towering pillars, each intricately carved with the history of the Salgaran people. They walked in measured steps toward the final gate, leading into Chieftain Salgar¡¯s palace. With a firm push, Akashma opened it.
Inside Chieftain Salgar¡¯s Palace The chamber they entered was vast, with a broad staircase ascending to an upper floor, where Chieftain Salgar stood, waiting. Akashma saluted in the traditional Salgaran Crimson Order manner¡ªcrossing her arms into an X over her chest and bowing her head. "Your Majesty, I bring before you Tlandar, the Starborn. I have completed my mission," Akashma declared. "You have done well. You will be richly rewarded for your efforts," Chieftain Salgar replied before dismissing her. As Akashma departed, the great doors opened and sealed shut behind her. Now, alone with the towering ruler of Salgar, Tlandar faced his fate. "Tlandar, did you know that you are the Starborn of the Oasis Prophecy?" Chieftain Salgar asked. "I¡­ I don¡¯t know," Tlandar admitted. "That is why you have been brought here. You are the Starborn," she said. Towering ten feet tall, Chieftain Salgar was a commanding figure, draped in a dark red royal cloak over intricately designed kuprix armor. Her golden tiara crowned her elegantly styled hair, and the scent of dark red roses surrounded her¡ªa fragrance both regal and intoxicating. Tlandar inhaled deeply, gathering his resolve. "Astashica spoke to me. She needs my help. I must protect her. I must save this planet from the wicked Asemeri overlords who are destroying it. I will help. Tell me what I must do." Chieftain Salgar¡¯s gaze sharpened. "Then I will make you strong. For four years, you will train. Are you prepared for that, Tlandar?" "I am," Tlandar declared. "Prepare me to defeat Cosmus and his confederation of doom. I will bring my blade upon them. Astashica will live." Salgar smiled, pleased by his determination. "Good. You have the right spirit. But know this¡ªyour homeland, Val¡¯katl, is under siege. The Ixtielan marauders have pillaged and ravaged it for years. You, a humble rancher from the outlying regions of New Asemeri, may not have known the extent of the destruction. But had you stayed, you and your family would already be dead. They will reach those lands soon, leaving nothing but ruin in their wake." Her voice carried the weight of prophecy. "You will grow strong with my guidance, for I, too, am a protector of Astashica. When the time comes, you will stand as its shield. You will be the Protector of Astashica. But first¡ªyou must prepare. Your true mission begins now." The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. At her command, several Salgaran eunuch servants arrived to escort Tlandar to his royal living quarters. As the chamber doors opened, he stepped inside, the gates sealing behind him.
Tlandar Begins His Apprenticeship For the next four years, Tlandar lived within the palace of Chieftain Salgar, undergoing intense training in combat, philosophy, engineering, and strategy. He was no longer a simple farmer¡ªhe was being forged into a warrior. His mentor, a Salgaran eunuch named Xelvath, was among the great sages of Chieftain Salgar¡¯s court. His name, meaning "Life" in the Asemeri language, symbolized the wisdom he carried. Xelvath was six feet tall, with light hazel eyes, tanned skin, and short black hair. Though of medium build, he was agile, cunning, and relentless. He wore the dark red cloak of the Crimson Order, as did all who lived within the Sanctum of Orchids. Tlandar¡¯s training began in the lowest levels of the Sanctum, where a vast, colossal space had been constructed for training Salgaran pilots in the operation of Formicron mechas. The floors stretched endlessly, allowing hundreds of Xothek Formicron units to maneuver freely. Here, the future defenders of the Salgaran Dominion honed their skills. Under Xelvath¡¯s guidance, Tlandar learned every facet of Formicron warfare: The standard Xothek Formicron, standing 30 feet tall, was a bipedal war machine, with rotating cylindrical joints at the arms and legs. Its cockpit, integrated into the torso, was protected by an armored shield, displaying a tactical HUD, real-time sensor data, encrypted communications, and holographic mission maps. The Salgaran Formicrons, painted in dark crimson with black weaponry, were symbols of power and precision. To master these machines, Tlandar underwent grueling training missions, including: His training was unforgiving. He learned not just to fight, but to think like a warrior, to understand the mind of an enemy, and to wield his machine like an extension of his own body.
The Warrior¡¯s Attire Upon proving himself, Tlandar was granted the dark red cloak of the Crimson Order of Salgar. Its fabric, woven with advanced optical fibers, could render the wearer completely invisible at will. He also received a Salgaran combat uniform, crafted from cloth and leather, designed for both mobility and durability. Beyond mecha warfare, Tlandar was trained in traditional combat arts, mastering: Like Akashma before him, he was now a warrior of the Crimson Order.
The Starborn Awakens The farmer from Verdantis Nexus was gone. In his place stood a warrior¡ªa warrior who would one day rise against Cosmus. Tlandar was no longer just a pilot or a student. He was the future Protector of Astashica. And his real battle¡­ had only just begun.