The Dawn of a New Era

January 15, 1950

"The greatest event ever witnessed on the Sun's surface has unfolded before humanity's eyes. A solar flare of unprecedented magnitude erupted, its brilliance reaching Earth within mere minutes, blinding satellites and telescopes alike. The coronal mass ejections soared beyond all known limits, transforming into more than just an astronomical phenomenon. It became a signal, a herald of impending change that would soon engulf the entire world."

Consequences on Earth

"The solar flare triggered severe magnetic storms across the planet. Electrical grids, already in their infancy, were crippled worldwide. Radio transmissions faltered, and pilots reported strange interference with their instruments. Yet, the most astonishing aspect wasn't the technological disruption—it was the sky. Above Earth, the heavens were painted in colors unseen by any living soul before. Enormous swaths of green, red, and violet light intertwined, casting a mesmerizing spectacle across the sky."

"For two full days, the sky remained alight, even throughout the night. People gathered in the streets, staring upwards, unaware that this phenomenon was but the beginning of a new age. Scientists of the time were baffled, poring over data transmitted by the few functioning satellites. They recorded anomalies in Earth's magnetosphere, yet found no explanation for their origin."

The Beginning of Research

"In the weeks that followed, scientists from around the world launched intense investigations. Despite the limited technology of the 1950s, they sought to understand what had caused the Sun's bizarre behavior. Research was conducted at major observatories: the California Institute of Technology, the Solar Research Institute in Europe, and even at Seoul Observatory."

"Eventually, scientists concluded that the flare was induced by an unusually powerful coronal mass ejection, with effects far more enduring than initially believed. Energy had entered Earth's atmosphere—an energy unlike any known physical phenomenon. Analyses of particles collected by balloons and high-altitude aircraft revealed the presence of mysterious energetic particles never before observed."

April 30, 1955: First Signs of Anomalies

"Five years after the solar flare, strange changes were noted among newborns. In Texas, USA, doctors documented the first case of an infant with an unusual anatomical formation in the chest area—a small, semi-translucent organ, resembling a vessel filled with an unknown substance."

"This discovery caused a sensation in the scientific community. Within months, similar cases began appearing across the globe. Scientists named the organ 'The Core.' Initially, it was thought to be a congenital anomaly, but as cases grew in frequency, it became evident that this was a new step in human evolution."

The Start of Experiments

"Research began immediately. Given the limited capabilities of 1950s technology, the experiments were often harsh and at times brutal. Scientists strove to comprehend the nature of The Core—its composition, its influence on the human body, and why it manifested exclusively in newborns."

"Initial studies showed that The Core did not impact basic physiological functions. It wasn't involved in metabolism and seemed to have no effect on growth or development. However, some researchers began to speculate that The Core had an energetic nature, potentially linked to the unknown particles that had reached Earth following the flare."

1958: The Awakening of The Core"

Eight years after the solar flare, a pivotal moment occurred. During an experiment involving electrical activity stimulators, one of the subjects exhibited extraordinary changes. The man suddenly displayed increased strength, enhanced reflexes, and his skin became unnaturally resistant to injury. Scientists called this phenomenon 'The Awakening.'"

"It soon became apparent that Awakening activated hidden powers within The Core. Those who underwent this process demonstrated not only superior physical traits but also the ability to command elements — fire, water, air, or earth. However, it was discovered that a person could only control one or two elements at most."

"In rare cases, individuals attempting to wield all four elements succumbed to the strain — their bodies unable to withstand the overwhelming burden."

"Thus emerged the 'Altered' — a term coined by scientists to describe those whose Core had been awakened. These individuals became both revered and feared. Their abilities seemed almost divine, yet they were closely monitored and controlled by governments."

"The solar flare of 1950 altered the course of human history. It became the catalyst for a new evolutionary leap—humans endowed with unique powers. But this transformation brought not only hope for a brighter future but also the specter of fear for what lay beneath this newfound gift. Thus began an era where magic and science merged, and humanity embarked on a path fraught with the greatest of trials."

The Revelation of the Gates

1965: Progress and Cruelty

"Decades of research on children born with Mana Cores continued with relentless and ruthless determination. By 1965, these children had reached the age of ten and became the primary focus of experimentation. Scientists sought to unlock every secret of the Core, subjecting the children to grueling tests. There were no boundaries, no pity in their quest to understand the organ and its potential."

"The research began to yield its first results. Scientists started to categorize the abilities of the 'Altered.' Each awakened Core exhibited unique properties, yet they all shared an elemental connection: water, fire, air, and earth. People began to classify the Altered by their powers, gradually giving rise to a new field of science — Manakinetics."

1980: The Rifts

"It seemed that the world was starting to adapt to the existence of the Altered, but in 1980, everything changed once more. A new type of anomaly shook earthly reality. Strange spatial rifts began to appear across the globe. They emitted no sound, no light, but their presence could be felt from afar. The air around them seemed to ripple, as if the very fabric of the world was trying to conceal something."

"The military and special services were immediately put on high alert. Each new appearance of the rifts was heavily guarded. Scientists attempted to understand their nature, but the technology of the time was powerless against such a phenomenon. Despite their efforts, the rifts remained a mystery."

1981: The Revelation of the Gates

"A year later, in 1981, the rifts began to unfold. They took the shape of massive Gates, surrounded by a strange energy field. Standing nearly 20 meters tall and more than 10 meters wide, these Gates looked like windows into another world. The aura surrounding them inspired awe but also lured with its mystery."

"Military forces from various nations attempted to organize expeditions. Groups of soldiers and equipment entered the Gates, but none returned. Attempts to communicate with those inside failed. Scientists recorded anomalous activity from the Gates but could not explain why those who entered never came back."

1990: The Proposal of the Altered

"By the end of the decade, government patience had run dry. They could no longer ignore the Gates, but their research had reached a dead end. It was then that the Altered, still under strict governmental control, proposed a risky initiative."

An Altered from South Korea:

"Why not send a team that represents all sides? Ten Altered, ten scientists, and ten soldiers—each contributing their expertise. We are stronger than regular people; we are willing to take the risk."

"The idea was debated on an international level. After much deliberation and dispute, the proposal was accepted. In March 1990, preparations for the first joint expedition began."

May 10, 1990: The Choice of the Gate

"Among the numerous Gates, scientists focused on the one in the United States, near New Mexico. It stood out for its unusual shape and incredible energy activity. Analysis showed that its energy levels were dozens of times greater than those of the other Gates."

"This information pushed leadership to make a final decision. This Gate would be the target of the first expedition."

May 27, 1990: The Return

"The expedition began. A group of thirty people entered the Gate. For two weeks, there was no communication. Their fate remained unknown. But on May 27, something incredible happened. Eight people emerged from the Gate. They looked exhausted, covered in wounds, but they were alive. Their return was a sensation."

"The survivors spoke of the world beyond the Gate: strange landscapes, monsters, and unknown materials. They brought back samples of resources and knowledge that would change humanity."

List of Survivors

Altered:

Jonathan Reeves (America)

Alexei Ivanovich Petrov (Russia)

Lee Seung Ho (South Korea)

Edward Kingston (England)

Takeshi Hayato (Japan)

Scientists:

Robert Wilson (America)

Marion Duval (France)

Antonio Silva (Brazil)

"The expedition opened the doors to a new world for humanity. But what they found beyond the Gates was only the beginning."

"The five Altered who returned alive became symbols of a new era. Their efforts led to the establishment of the first organizations dedicated to studying and defending against the dangers hidden beyond the Gates."

The Rebirth Summit

May 30, 1990: Washington, D.C."

The grand hall at the heart of Washington, meant for the most important international political events, was overflowing. Heads of state from around the globe gathered at a massive round table. Seated on one side were those who had become heroes and symbols of a new era—the five Altered who returned from the first expedition beyond the Gates. Beside them sat the three surviving scientists. They looked weary, but in their eyes burned a sense of purpose fulfilled."

"A deep murmur of voices fell silent as the first scientist, Robert Wilson, stood up. His voice was tired but resolute, as if he spoke not only for himself but for all humanity."

The Scientists' Report

Robert Wilson:

"Ladies and gentlemen, the world beyond the Gates is not just uncharted territory. It is an entirely different reality. We witnessed landscapes that defy description: mountains that seemed alive, skies covered with strange energy vortices, and forests filled with predatory plants. We observed fauna that astounds with its power and lethality."

"But the greatest threat — it's the monsters. They are unlike anything we've ever seen. These creatures are not just strong; they are smart. They hunt with tactics. Regular soldiers and equipment could not withstand them. We lost people... but it was the Altered who became the force that gave us any chance of survival."

"The five sitting here before you are not just people. Their strength and endurance go beyond human understanding. What they did to protect us all deserves not fear but respect."

The Demonstration of Artifacts

"The scientists opened the boxes brought back from beyond the Gates. One contained strange ores, glowing softly from within with a blue light. Another held plants that emitted a faint luminescence. Each sample was accompanied by detailed notes and photographs taken beyond the Gates."

Marion Duval:

"These materials possess properties we have never seen on Earth. Their durability, conductivity, and potential for applications are virtually limitless. This is a new leap for science and technology. But to obtain them, we faced threats that only the Altered could overcome."

The Reaction of the Heads of State

"After the scientists' report, voices rose. Some expressed doubts, others gratitude, but most agreed on one thing—measures must be taken to control the Altered. One head of state stood and made a proposal for isolation."

Head of the United States:

"We are grateful for all you've done. But we cannot allow forces of such power to remain uncontrolled. For the safety of the entire world, we must isolate the Altered. It is in everyone's interest."

"These words hung in the air. The five Altered exchanged glances, and the first to rise was Jonathan Reeves."

The Altered's Response

Jonathan Reeves:

"Isolate us? For what we have done? We are not weapons or monsters. We are as human as you are. We fought for humanity, lost our comrades to prove that the world can handle the Gates. And you offer us a cage?"

Takeshi Hayato:

"We demand respect. We propose the formation of an Alliance. A coalition that includes all Altered so we can work together. Only we are capable of protecting you from the threats hidden beyond the Gates. Without us, you have no chance."

"The voices began to quiet. The scientists, who had witnessed the Altered's strength and sacrifice, sided with them. Gradually, the heads of state began to realize that isolation could spark a wave of protests. A decision required time."

September 5, 1990: The Rebirth Summit

"Three months after the meeting in Washington, a new summit took place. It was called 'The Rebirth Summit.' During this time, public opinion began to shift in favor of the Altered. Protests, demonstrations, and petitions forced governments to reconsider their stance."

"At the summit, a historic decision was made. The Altered, now officially called Celestials, were granted the right to establish a unified Association. They were to become an integral part of humanity's defense against the Gates."

July 15, 1993: Recognition of the Association

"Three years later, after many political debates, the Celestial Association was officially founded. It became the world's first organization dedicated to protecting humanity and researching the Gates. On the same day, preparations began for the construction of the main headquarters in Seoul."

August 30, 1995: Completion of Construction

"Two years of construction culminated in the erection of an incredibly tall and technologically advanced building in Seoul. This place became a symbol of strength and unity. The five founding Celestials, who had become living legends, took leadership of the Association. They formulated the first rules and laws by which the Celestials were to live and operate."

"From the moment the Association was founded, the world was never the same. Celestials began undertaking missions to clear the Gates, protect people, and extract resources that became the foundation of a new economy. Their existence became the guarantor of humanity's survival."

"Thus began a New Era. The Celestial Association became the link between Humanity and the unknown world. But this was only the first step on a long and dangerous path, full of mysteries, secrets, and new challenges."