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Chapter 4 - Constants

As the newly formed universe stabilized, the vast energies wielded by the Seven began to fragment and spread throughout the cosmos. These fragments took on distinct forms, becoming ever-present forces that permeated every corner of existence. The six, along with Ashura, observed their power interacting with the world, shaping reality in ways they could not have fully anticipated.

Each fragment became a fundamental force, something that would exist across all space and time, unseen yet undeniable. It was Adam who first gave these forces names—"Constants"—a term that captured their omnipresent nature. These Constants became the underlying principles of the universe, the invisible threads that held reality together. And each of the original seven gave rise to one or more of these Constant.

Anu's essence fragmented into the Constant of Time, guiding the flow of moments throughout the universe. The Constant ensured that everything experienced a continuous rhythm—growth, change, decay, and rebirth. Anu himself embodied patience and foresight, always mindful of the long arc of existence. Time would become the silent observer, ever-present, yet unchangeable, ensuring that everything moved forward, even if imperceptibly so.

Time governs the natural progression of events, ensuring that nothing remains static.

Ashura, the origin of all stories and the one who gave meaning to existence, splintered into the Constant of Order. This force would ensure that the chaos of creation did not spiral into endless madness. Order would give structure and purpose to existence, just as stories provide meaning. Ashura's presence brought clarity to the universe, maintaining balance and harmony.

Order provides the structure for life, holding the universe together with an unseen hand.

It shapes how everything interacts, giving purpose and coherence to the universe.

From Enryu came the Constants of Chaos and Fate. Though seemingly contradictory, these forces were interwoven. Chaos was the spark of change, the catalyst for creativity and transformation, while Fate guided those changes toward a destined end. Enryu's nature reflected this paradox; he was both a free spirit, delighting in unpredictability, and a master planner, weaving the threads of destiny.

Chaos fuels innovation, breaking stagnation and sparking the creation of new worlds.

Fate ensures that within the chaos, certain outcomes are inevitable, shaping the destinies of all who exist.

Kosha's essence became the Constant of Life, which infused the universe with vitality and growth. His influence ensured that beings born into the world could dream, explore, and pursue freedom beyond the limitations of reality. Life became the vibrant force that colored the universe, constantly seeking expression and new forms.

Life is the source of growth and evolution, fostering endless possibilities.

It ensures that the universe is never static, always pushing toward new frontiers.

Macaria's essence formed the Constant of Death, the final force to take shape. Death was not an end but a necessary conclusion, making room for new beginnings. Death embraced her role with a quiet understanding, ensuring that nothing would last forever, allowing life to evolve and transform. Her presence was a reminder that all things must pass to make way for the new.

Death ensures that nothing can remain eternal, making room for rebirth.

It provides a boundary, marking the end of one existence so another may begin.

It is the force that ensures the cycles of birth, death, and rebirth continue without fail.

Although Adam did not become a Constant himself, his power to name and define gave form to all the other Constants. His influence ensured that the forces would take shape as abstract aspects of reality. Adam's gift was to bring clarity and understanding, solidifying the essence of each Constant.

With the Constants now set in place, the universe began to breathe and expand. The newly established forces interacted seamlessly, creating stars, galaxies, and entire worlds. As these systems stabilized, the first lifeforms began to emerge. These beings were reflections of the original seven, sharing in their essence but each influenced by a specific Constant.

The universe was now a tapestry woven with the threads of Time, Order, Chaos, Fate, Life Death and many more that splintered off from these. From these forces, countless beings would arise, each living out stories influenced by the Constants that shaped their reality. And so, the universe began its journey, filled with endless potential.

Michael marveled at the vast expanse of stars and worlds that had sprung into existence. Yet, his awe was short-lived. He noticed that something was terribly wrong. The air seemed to crackle with an intensity that made the entire universe tremble.

"The power... it's too much," he muttered, eyes wide. The newly formed world couldn't withstand the overwhelming energy of the Constants. Chaos clashed with Order, Life and Death waged their eternal dance, and Time itself threatened to unravel everything. Whole Stories, newly born, were torn asunder by the relentless conflict.

Ashura's brow furrowed. "If this continues, everything we've created will be destroyed."

The group fell silent, pondering a solution. Finally, Anu spoke, his voice calm and measured. "We need to separate the Constants from existence itself. If they're allowed to flow freely, they will continue to destroy the worlds they touch."

Michael blinked. "Separate them? How would that even work?"

Anu glanced at him and continued, "We create layers—spaces within each world—each one higher than the last, so far removed that they transcend mere numbers. The Constants can reside above these... realms."

Adam scratched his chin thoughtfully. "Dimensions, you mean?"

"Yes," Anu affirmed, nodding. He raised his hand, and space itself seemed rippled and folded. New layers began to form, each one higher and more abstract than the last, stretching infinitely beyond comprehension. The Constants were drawn upwards, their energies redirected into these newly formed dimensions. Only Time, ever connected to the flow of existence, chose to anchor a significant portion of its power in the fourth dimension, allowing it to interact closely with the world without tearing it apart.

"This way, we can influence creation from afar," Anu explained. "We can shape reality and the spaces beyond without destroying them."

Adam watched the elegant structure take form, a satisfied grin spreading across his face. "I think that'll do," he said, relief evident in his voice.

As the years passed, millions of them in fact, the universe found balance. Life began to flourish and spread, unhindered by the once-catastrophic clash of the Constants. New beings, each with their own Stories, emerged across countless worlds, unaware of the silent guardians that now watched over them from beyond existence.

Michael exhaled, tension melting away. "So... it worked."

Adam clapped him on the back with a grin. "It did, my friend. And now, a new story begins."