VOL. ONE: Ivoryta

At dawn, a light mist covered the valley of Thumpaadhur, and the gentle glow of the sun rose between the hills, casting golden hues over the landscape. Circe arrived at the agreed spot, eager and full of anticipation. In the distance, she spotted the figure of her Magister, Pandora, already waiting beside an old tree, whose branches seemed to stretch out protectively.

Pandora met her with a warm but intense look—the kind of gaze that conveyed that what was to come was not just a lesson, but a revelation.

“Good morning, young Prenova,” Pandora greeted, motioning for Circe to sit beside her. “I see curiosity kept you awake last night.”

Circe smiled, barely containing her excitement. “It’s true, Magister. I couldn’t stop thinking about what you said regarding the story of Nike and Selene. My mind filled with questions… Who were they, really? What did they do that’s so important that we still remember their names today?”

Pandora nodded, pleased with the spark of understanding and curiosity she saw in her disciple. With a gentle sigh, she began.

“Circe, what you’re about to hear is a story hidden within the shadows of our collective memory, a tale that few truly know. Nike and Selene were extraordinary figures, two Kwasars who marked a turning point in our Universe. Their story is as essential to understanding the true threat the Raptors pose to our existence.”

Circe leaned in, captivated. “Were they warriors, like the Valkyries?”

Pandora’s eyes took on a faraway look as she considered her response. “Nike and Selene were twin sisters. Both were training to become Valkyries, much like you, Circe. Their father, Adonis, was their mentor and Magister, guiding them through the rigorous process.” Her voice dropped, taking on a more somber tone. But the Raptors saw them as a prey. In that era, the Raptors were so few in the Universe of Tzion that we Kwasars were unaware of their existence. Silently, they set out to grow in numbers, aiming to become strong enough to pose a genuine threat to us. Crafting a stealthy plan, they devised a process to hunt down solitary Kwasars, unprotected by our forces. For this purpose, they armed themselves with a vile Symbiont Metal known as Prouranium, from which they forged their armour. This metal drains our abilities, skills, and powers, leaving us vulnerable. This cruel and treacherous hunt of our kind they named ‘the Kwasar Hunt.’

Circe’s eyes widened as a chill ran through her. She was utterly taken aback, barely able to comprehend the audacity and ruthlessness of the Raptors."

Pandora nodded gravely. “The Raptors launched a merciless campaign, stretching across galaxies, to capture Nike and Selene. What happened to them was truly horrible, something that left a scar on our history.”

Circe, her heart pounding, couldn’t hold back any longer. “Magister, what happened to them? Did they survive?”

Pandora took a deep breath, her gaze meeting Circe’s with profound intensity. “The truth is more complex than survival or defeat. What happened to Nike and Selene that day changed everything, and their legacy remains with us, a reminder of what we must protect.”

Circe was now entirely enthralled, her eyes reflecting a mix of awe and excitement. “Please, Magister, tell me. I have to know.”

Pandora gave a slight, almost sorrowful smile. “Then listen closely, young Prenova, but first, let me tell you that as I recount this tale, I shall draw special and beautiful illustrations, honoring their memory by your side."

“These are the traditions, young Prenova, and you know them well, do you not?”

“Yes, Magister, I know.”

“Then show respect to your ancestors, and let pride for them fill your heart.”

“Yes, Magister! I will do so with all my soul!”

Pandora had to interrupt the story of Nike and Selene as it was getting too late. They had a long day ahead, and she didn't want time to slip away. Besides, Pandora wanted to take advantage of the early morning hours to take an incredibly important step in Circe's Educatio process.

"Magister, what happened next? You can't stop telling me the story right at this point; I need to know what happened with Nike and Selene!" Circe's voice was filled with eagerness, her curiosity almost tangible.

Pandora smiled, her eyes twinkling with a mix of fondness and authority. "Ah, Circe, patience. The tale of Nike and Selene is not one to be rushed."

Circe sighed, her shoulders dropping slightly. "But I need to know! It’s just so fascinating..."

Pandora placed a gentle hand on Circe's shoulder, her gaze soft but unwavering. "I know, dear one. Their story is indeed compelling, and I promise you, we will continue it. But there is a time for stories, and there is a time for your trainning."

Circe bit her lip, the struggle between her desire to continue the story and her respect for her magister evident on her face. After a moment, she nodded reluctantly. "Very well, Magister. But you must promise me we'll finish it soon."

Pandora chuckled softly. "I promise, Circe. And perhaps, when you hear the rest, you will see it through different eyes. The journey you are about to embark on will bring you greater understanding, not just of Nike and Selene, but of yourself as well."

Circe's curiosity, though momentarily subdued, was soon replaced by a sense of anticipation. She took a deep breath, her focus shifting. "I understand, Pandora. Today's trainning is important, isn't it?"

Pandora nodded, her expression turning serious. "Yes, very important. You are about to learn the secrets of the Ivoryta symbionts and choose the one that will accompany you for the rest of your life. It is a day that will shape your future, Circe."

Circe straightened, determination replacing her earlier disappointment. "I'm ready, Magister. I will face whatever challenges come."

After Pandora deemed Circe ready, Magister and Prenova sat opposite each other in a meditative pose. The landscape around them was breathtaking, yet it paled in comparison to the radiance emitted by these two Kwasars together. A conversation unfolded between them, serving as a recap of all that had been learned. Pandora highlighted key points, ensuring Circe understood them clearly before invoking the Ivoryta symbiont.

Pandora began, her voice calm and steady, "Circe, your journey has been one of remarkable growth. You've shown exceptional physical and mental resilience, qualities essential for handling the powerful symbiosis with the Ivoryta without being overwhelmed."

Circe listened intently, her mind clear and focused.

"Your empathy transcends the Universe of Tzion, allowing you to understand the needs and emotions of the Ivoryta. This creates a symbiotic bond based on mutual respect and deep understanding. This connection will be your greatest strength," Pandora continued.

Circe nodded, the significance of Pandora's words settling in her heart.

"Your insatiable curiosity and dedication to exploration make you perfect for discovering and mastering the abilities the Ivoryta can offer. This path of continuous growth is crucial," Pandora added, her eyes reflecting the morning light.

Circe felt a surge of determination, ready to embrace the challenges ahead.

"Your emotional balance allows you to maintain calm and clarity in high-stress situations, essential for wielding the power of the Ivoryta without being dominated by it," Pandora emphasized, highlighting the importance of mental stability.

"I understand, Pandora. I feel ready," Circe responded, her voice filled with resolve.

"Your innate compassion for all living beings, combined with your strong sense of justice, ensures that you will use the powers of the Ivoryta responsibly and for the greater good," Pandora concluded, her gaze soft but serious.

Circe felt a deep sense of purpose, her heart aligned with her mission. She absorbed Pandora's words, a profound sense of destiny enveloping her. She was not just undertaking a personal journey but stepping into a role that had been foretold, ready to fulfill her part in the grand tapestry of the Kwasars' future.

Pandora's voice, calm and authoritative, cut through the serene morning, "Circe, you must now use your senses deep into your soul to feel the depths of the earth and search for the Ivoryta symbionts. You need to find the one that best matches your being. Not any symbiont will do; it has to be one specifically designed for your personality, a complement to your physical, mental, and spiritual self."

Circe closed her eyes, initially feeling nothing but the cool breeze against her skin. However, following Pandora's guidance, she gradually began to sense the presence of the Ivoryta deep within the earth. She sensed hundreds of them, but their presence brought her discomfort and a sense of aversion. These were wild, powerful, and aggressive creatures, and the connection pained her soul. "I don't like this," she confessed to Pandora, a note of distress in her voice.

Pandora was firm, "You must not give up. Continue your search. Do not falter."

Fear and insecurity started to seep into Circe's resolve. Pandora, sensing her apprentice's turmoil, instructed, "This is not the path, Circe. Find stability, remember everything you've been taught." Encouraged by Pandora's words, Circe realigned her focus and, digging deep within, rediscovered her strength.

After moments that felt like an eternity, Circe finally connected with a symbiont that resonated deeply with her being. "That's the one!" Pandora exclaimed. "Draw it towards you."

With a renewed sense of purpose, Circe did as instructed. At that precise moment, Circe and the symbiotic being connected telepathically, instantly knowing everything about each other as if by magic. As the symbiont began its ascent from the depths, its power proved overwhelming. "It's coming towards me, but I can't... I'm tired... It's too powerful," Circe gasped, her energy waning.

"Do not give up. Continue," Pandora urged, as tears began to streak down Circe's cheeks. The effort was immense, far beyond what she had anticipated. It was only then that she truly understood the necessity of her rigorous physical, mental, and spiritual training.

Just as Circe felt she could go no further, Pandora stepped closer, her presence exuding an aura of unwavering strength. "Strength lies not only in the power you wield but in the courage to stand when all seems lost," Pandora said, her voice filled with encouragement.

Empowered by Pandora's support, Circe's resolve hardened. The symbiont, unable to resist the pull of their deepening connection, continued its ascent towards the surface from the depths of Urkulo. The bond between them, forged in the crucible of Circe's determination and spirit, marked the beginning of a profound and transformative partnership.

The symbiont named Blanka, chosen by Circe, began to emerge from the earth, its distinct white form marking its arrival. Blanka manifested as a fluid patch, roughly a meter in surface area, with an otherworldly appearance that sparked the imagination. Its malleable nature allowed it to change shape, size, and texture at will, seamlessly adapting to the needs of its host or the environment's demands.

Visually, Blanka was defined by its predominantly white color, which seemed to absorb light around it, giving it an even more menacing appearance.

The appearance of the Ivoryta symbiont was both deeply unsettling and fascinating. Its body seemed to be made of an ivory organic substance, akin to a thick, sticky liquid, allowing it to change shape at will. This viscous mass moved with supernatural fluidity, enabling it to stretch, expand, or compress with astonishing ease, that was crucial for its ability to traverse the terrain.

As the symbiote approached Circe, her heart raced with both fear and awe. The creature, a living mass of viscous white liquid, seemed to struggle against the planet's atmosphere, its form shimmering with vulnerability.

Pandora, standing close, her voice steady and reassuring, broke the tense silence. "Circe, embrace your fear; it's a part of you, but it does not define you. Blanka senses your emotions; show it trust, show it strength."

Circe nodded, though her eyes remained fixed on the quivering mass before her. She could feel Blanka's confusion, its fear mirroring her own. "I... I'm scared, Pandora," Circe admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's so powerful, and I feel its pain. How can I... How can we become one?"

Pandora offered Circe a warm, reassuring smile, her gaze steady and full of understanding. "By accepting it, Circe. By accepting yourself. Your strength lies not only in your power but in your capacity to understand and empathize. You and Blanka are not so different. You both seek connection, a place to belong. Reach out to it, not as a Kwasar to a symbiont, but as one being to another."

Encouraged by Pandora's words, Circe closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. She extended her hands further, not just physically but with all her being, her willingness to bond. "Blanka, I don't fear you. I... I understand you. Let's face this world together, not as master and servant, but as partners, as friends."

The air seemed to thicken with tension as Blanka hesitated, its form pulsating. In that moment, Circe's fears amplified, her mind assaulted by visions of the symbiont overwhelming her, consuming her identity. She could feel Blanka's power, vast and untamed, and doubt crept into her heart.

Pandora's voice, calm yet powerful, rallied her spirit. "Circe, you are not alone. You've never been. Your strength, your courage, they've brought you here. Trust in yourself."

Tears streamed down Circe's face once more, not from fear, but from a deep, resonating understanding. She felt Pandora's support and, beyond that, Blanka's hesitant curiosity. It was a creature not of malice, but of survival, seeking a refuge from the pain of existence.

With a final push of will, Circe's fear dissolved into a wave of acceptance and determination. "We can survive together, Blanka. I offer you sanctuary within me, a bond of mutual respect and strength."

As the symbiont began its delicate dance of integration with Circe, it first traced the contours of her hands, its presence cold yet compelling. Slowly, it fused with each cell of the skin on her hands, sending waves of power that Circe felt becoming part of her. Yet, this union brought pain; the connection to her nervous system was agonizing, though essential for the bond to form. The symbiont continued its ascent, wrapping around her arms and torso, slipping beneath her clothing to reach every hidden corner of her body, covering every inch.

Circe fell to her knees, her entire body trembling under the weight of the agony that coursed through her. The pain, initially intense but bearable, had escalated to an excruciating crescendo, consuming every fiber of her being. It felt as though her very soul was being torn apart, her nerves ablaze with the relentless onslaught of the symbiont’s integration. Tears began streaming down her cheeks, uncontrolled, her face contorting in anguish as the symbiont enveloped her body completely, sparing only her face and hair, which clung to her sweat-drenched skin. Each breath was labored, each heartbeat a drum echoing her struggle.

Circe's vision blurred, and her mind teetered on the edge of surrender. The sheer force of the pain threatened to shatter her, her cries echoing in the silence around them. Her entire being screamed for respite, but deep within her, an ember of determination flickered.

Pandora stepped closer, her voice cutting through the haze of agony like a lifeline. "Circe, this pain is the price of union. Soon, you will emerge stronger, wiser, and more powerful than you've ever imagined. Hold on, for this transformation will redefine your existence." Her words carried both a fierce command and a gentle reassurance, a beacon of hope amidst the storm.

Circe clung to Pandora's words, her resolve hardening. She would not let this pain break her. She was more than this suffering—she was a Kwasar, destined for greatness. Inside, she rallied herself, her spirit refusing to bow. She provided unwavering support to herself, her thoughts a mantra of resilience. "Feel our combined strength, Blanka. Let our resilience flow through us. This pain is transient, a doorway to a new dawn of power and understanding."

The sight of Circe, her body writhing in pain yet still holding her ground, was both heartbreaking and awe-inspiring. Her figure, illuminated by the glow of the symbiont, seemed almost ethereal. Her muscles strained, her skin grew firmer—smooth yet tense—but beneath the pain, there was a beauty in her struggle: an indomitable spirit refusing to yield. The ivory hue of Blanka glistened, molding to her form, highlighting the graceful curves of her body, a testament to her strength and resilience. It was as if the very essence of the universe was weaving itself into her, creating a harmony between power and elegance.

Circe's cries turned into a roar, a sound born not of despair, but of defiance. Her tears fell, but her eyes blazed with an inner fire, her mind pushing beyond the limits of her physical form. She was not just enduring—she was conquering. The fusion of Blanka on her body became a spectacle, a testament to her courage and determination, a beauty forged through suffering. It was raw, primal, and profoundly moving. She was no longer just Circe; she was becoming something greater—a confluence of strength, grace, and unyielding willpower.

Pandora watched, her heart swelling with admiration. She was strangely surprised; Circe had not lost consciousness during the symbiosis process with Blanka. Normally, Sapiens fall unconscious from the strain, their energy nearly depleted; Only Kwasars of superior lineage can endure the process without losing awareness. But Circe... Circe was an ordinary Kwasar. How was this possible? Pandora didn’t give it much thought at the moment, unaware that Circe was unlike any other Kwasar. Gradually, Pandora would come to realize that her Prenova was destined for something truly extraordinary. But neither Pandora nor Circe knew it yet.

"You’ve done it, Circe," she whispered, her voice nearly drowned by the light and energy radiating from their merging. In that moment, Circe was a beacon—a symbol of courage, beauty, and the relentless pursuit of transformation.

THE IVORY SKIN

As the symbiont reached every part of Circe's body, a radiant explosion of light and energy marked the culmination of the symbiosis process. Gradually, the pain subsided, leaving behind a sense of profound renewal. Circe, now a Kwasar reborn, found her clothing disintegrated by the energy surge, her form adorned in the primordial attire of the Ivoryta symbionts. Her skin, an ivory hue, gleamed under Urkulo's sun, the symbiont clothing her in a suit that clung to her like a second skin, highlighting every curve with an ethereal glow.

Pandora, witnessing the transformation, offered words of encouragement and pride. "I'm so proud of you, Circe. You and Blanka are now one, a testament to the courage and strength of your spirit. Embrace this new beginning, for you stand as a beacon of hope and unity."

As soon as the symbiosis between Circe and Blanka was complete, Pandora took a moment to explain the significance of their new form. "This transformation, what you see as 'The Ivory Skin,' is the symbiont's gift to you, enhancing your appearance with a marvelous sheen as if dressed in an elastic garment that fits your body like a second skin, covering every corner except your head. It's luminous and resplendent, a mark of your union," Pandora detailed, her eyes reflecting the awe-inspiring sight before her.

"But 'The Ivory Skin' is merely the beginning, Circe. Blanka bestows upon you a multitude of other abilities, each more incredible than the last," Pandora continued, her voice filled with excitement and pride.

Circe, still absorbing the magnitude of her transformation, listened intently.

"Firstly, you now possess renewed strength, agility, and speed. This will grant you extraordinary resistance to physical damage. These enhancements will empower you beyond any ordinary being," Pandora elaborated, each word imbuing Circe with a sense of newfound potential.

"Additionally, Blanka can move freely across your body, covering it completely or partially, focusing on the areas that need the most protection. It can form shields around your arms to absorb heavy impacts and protect you, or it might concentrate primarily on your torso to guard against a fatal frontal blow. Remember, the ivory skin is not a suit; it's alive and can move freely over you. Normally, it responds to our will, but don't forget it has a life of its own. If you give it some freedom, it will constantly shift form, allowing your outfit to change subtly or dramatically, giving your presence a unique, unparalleled creativity in style. This ever-changing outfit, independent of our will when permitted by its symbiotic master, we call it 'Flux.'"

ADAGIO

"First of all," Pandora continued, her voice filled with excitement, "be aware that you can alter the design of your Asgardian Skin as you wish; you can make your Ivory Skin shine and display any colour you desire. Isn’t that wonderful? Moreover, the ability to camouflage and blend seamlessly into your surroundings, transforming your attire into an infinite array of designs at will, is now yours to command. This adaptability also grants you rapid wound regeneration, greatly enhancing your survivability," Pandora added, her gaze locked with Circe's to ensure she understood the enormity of her gifts.

Pandora continued, her voice both encouraging and earnest, "Activating your Ivoryta and molding it into the attire design you desire involves a process that might seem complex at first. However, with practice, it will become an intuitive extension of your will."

Circe listened intently, her eyes reflecting the thirst for knowledge.

"The first phase is what we call 'Imagine.' This is crucial," Pandora continued, gesturing with her hands as if sculpting the air. "It's here that you shape the design of the attire you envision. This phase is deeply creative and is particularly enjoyed by the Ivoryta. It thrives on creativity, feeding off your imaginative energy."

Circe nodded, absorbing every word. "So, I need to clearly visualize what I want it to become?"

"Exactly," Pandora affirmed. "Visualization primes the Ivoryta. But moving to the next phase, 'Wish,' is where the deeper connection forms. In this phase, you must desire the change with your entire being. The Ivoryta needs to sense that this new form will bring joy to your heart. It's about establishing a profound emotional connection with the symbiont."

Circe furrowed her brow slightly, understanding the complexity of such an emotional transaction. "And how do I ensure the Ivoryta truly senses my emotions?"

"Through your heart's sincerity. The Ivoryta is sensitive to the genuine desires of its host," Pandora explained, her voice soft yet compelling. "Now, once you have established this bond, you transition to the 'Attraction' phase. Here, you take control, drawing the symbiont closer to you, commanding it subtly but firmly to conform to your wishes."

"And finally," Pandora paused for effect, ensuring she had Circe's full attention, "you reach the 'Morph' phase. This is where the Ivoryta transforms, taking on the physical form of the attire you've envisioned and desired. It’s a seamless fusion of your creative vision and emotional intent."

Circe, inspired by the depth of the connection required, felt a surge of determination. "So, it's not just about changing shape. It’s about harmonizing my thoughts and feelings with the Ivoryta to create something new."

"Yes! that's what it is," Pandora smiled, pleased with her insight. "The Ivoryta is not merely a tool but a partner in creation. Together, you'll bring to life wonders that are a true reflection of your inner self."

As they continued discussing, Circe felt a newfound appreciation for the symbiotic relationship with her Ivoryta. She was eager to start practicing, motivated by the thought of how this partnership could express her identity and emotions through the art of attire transformation.

SAPIENS.

“Circe,” Pandora continued teaching and emphasizing the lawst key concepts of the day to her Prenova, “there is something fundamental about who we are. Every living being you see here, across this entire Universe of Tzion—no matter their strength, or origin—is part of a grander design. We are all Sapiens, united by a single, profound truth.”

Circe’s eyes widened as she absorbed Pandora’s words. “And what is this truth?” she asked, breathless with curiosity.

Pandora’s smile deepened, almost sad but filled with warmth. “We were all created in the image and likeness of Goddark—the Architect of all Sapiens, the creator and lord of our Universe. This divine essence flows through each of us, binding us to a purpose far greater than our individual lives. When Goddark appears in physical form, this sacred essence lights up within every Sapiens, like a spark reminding us of where we came from and where we are destined to go.”

A look of wonder dawned on Circe’s face. “So… we’re all connected by Goddark? Every single Sapiens?”

Pandora nodded. “Yes, every one of us. And this connection? It’s what gives us our power and purpose. It binds us to each other and to the Universe itself, Circe.”

Circe was silent, her mind racing with the implications. “And… we, the Kwasars—how do we fit into all this?” she finally asked, her voice a mix of reverence and wonder.

Pandora’s eyes lit up with pride. “Ah, now you’re beginning to see!” She chuckled softly. “We, the Kwasars—or Prosapiens, as we are sometimes known—are more than just one of the many species in the Sapiens family. We are a noble, resilient, and wise people, Circe. We were blessed with strength and insight beyond many others, and with that comes responsibility—a sacred duty to uphold Goddark’s values and to honour the trust placed upon us. We are, in many ways, protectors of the Universe of Tzion.”

Circe’s heart swelled with pride as Pandora’s words took hold. “So we have a special role to play, don’t we?” she whispered, her voice filled with awe.

“Yes, Circe,” Pandora replied, her tone reverent. “Our connection to our Universe runs deeper than that of most Sapiens. With this connection comes the responsibility to safeguard Tzion and to act as beacons of wisdom and courage. We must hold ourselves to a higher standard, to show the others what it means to live in harmony with the Universe. By doing so, we honour Goddark, and we make him proud.”

Circe was silent for a moment, taking in Pandora’s words. Her eyes shone with newfound determination. “It’s… it’s so inspiring, Pandora,” she said, her voice trembling with emotion. “I want to honour this purpose, to make Goddark proud, as a true Kwasar should. I want to embrace this destiny.”

Pandora placed a gentle hand on Circe’s shoulder, her gaze filled with pride and affection. “And you shall, my dear. You have the heart and spirit of a Kwasar, one of the noblest among the Sapiens. Never forget, our diversity across the Universe is vast, yet we are all united by our shared origin, bound together by the Architect’s divine hand. Together, we all contribute to the unfolding story of Tzion, and you, Circe—you will come to know more of the other Sapiens in time. You will see for yourself just how special our place is among them.”

Circe lifted her head, feeling the weight of her legacy settle within her, grounding her and lifting her spirit all at once. “Thank you, Pandora,” she said, her voice filled with quiet resolve. “I understand now. I feel… connected. And ready. Ready to live up to this legacy, to be a Kwasar worthy of Goddark’s trust.”

Pandora’s eyes sparkled, her voice now a whisper. “Then go forth with pride, young one. Honour your ancestors, our creator, and the Universe of Tzion itself. This is our shared destiny, Circe. And it begins with you. But before you leave to rest and continue your path of learning tomorrow, join me in reciting the Kwasar Oath.”

“Of course, Magister, it will be an honour,” Circe replied, her voice filled with reverence. Both Kwasars lifted their gaze to the heavens, seeking a deep connection with their god, the Architect of all Sapiens—Goddark. With profound respect, they recited together, their voices merging into one: