4.13.13 Astral Noble

While the Chaos Plane at large is comprised of countless fragmented realms and demesnes that combine to form the greater planar whole, two in particular have risen to greater significance amongst the Gods and mortals of Sapience. Respectively, these are known as Corrupt Chaos, over which the Goddess Chakrasul holds dominion; and Astral Chaos, ruled by the Goddess Omei.

Despite the fundamental components of all Chaos realms being formed from conscious matter, the differences between the two empires are stark and undeniable. The darkness and malice of Corruption has long attracted members of the Indorani cult, while the vibrant colours and dream-like illusions of the Astral are an irresistible draw to Oneiromancers.

Much of the dichotomy between the two realms is reflected by the proxy governments each Goddess has left in place: Xa'azamit's Court is one of vile monstrosities and abject horror. The Astral Realm is no less deadly, sinister, or discomfiting, having persisted in at least partial independence until its conquest and forced unification beneath the banner of the Chromatic Court and Omei, the Imago in the year 498 MA.

Upon the Astral Realm, Diantha, Princess of the Dreaming Moon reigns in the Goddess' stead from her throne upon Silver. Beneath her viceroyship, the Astral Nobility project an air of fey nobility that is oft construed as more palatable and seductive - at least upon the surface. In truth, many of the Nobles maintain disquieting and unsettling masks, indulging foul and unspeakable pleasures out of mortal sight.

Nevertheless, there are those who are not satisfied with simply commanding the scraps that the aristocracy of these divergent realms deigns to send forth in battle. Some seek a greater apotheosis, transcending bargains and deals in favour of ascending as an Astral Noble. Though many mortals have pursued the power Chaos affords, few have prevailed in this course. One of the first was the Beastlord Viskein, whose ascension - while successful - was early and imperfect, leaving him permanently trapped between mortality and monstrosity.

Rihrin Silverain was the first adventurer in the modern era to successfully effect such an ascension, assuming authority over the Sapphire Sphere following prolonged negotiation with Inasea, the mercurial overseer of Astral Blue. With such power invested in them, these ascended mortals are capable of assuming their true form, shedding the constraints of mortality in favour of a body shaped by Chaos.

Thus empowered, the Astral Noble is graced with the ability to tap into many of Astral's deepest secrets, bringing to bear entropy and emotion in an array of exotic powers. Huntresses are theirs to command in battle; cyanic fire blooms at their fingertips; chaotic rainbows form by dint of their mere presence; and any who meet them in combat will find their very sense of self twisted toward the Noble's whims.

Adopting the Noble's form is an intoxicating process by which the individual infuses their body with threads of Astral might. Mid-transformation, glimmers of chromaticism spiral outwards from their heart while chaotic visions overtake their mind until impossibility becomes will-wrought reality, and Chaos ultimately accedes to their command.