NOVEL NEXT Chapter 2: The Great One’s Guidance
The empty land of the planet slowly started to come alive. It was like a huge blank canvas that was getting splashed with color. Wide rivers began to carve paths through the open ground. Lush forests popped up with bright green leaves. And where there was once barren dirt, rich soil started to appear. This was the place that Astrael, a mysterious being, had created.
Astrael's first creations were humans. They appeared in groups scattered across the land. At first, they looked confused. Their eyes were wide, as if they were carrying a heavy weight. They didn't know where they were or what they were supposed to do.
Even though they couldn't see him, Astrael was very much there. He floated in the background, watching this new civilization take its first steps. He wanted to join them, to give them a hand and steer them in the right direction. But he held back. Astrael knew that a good leader doesn't do everything for people. His job was to help them learn to stand on their own.
Astrael spoke into their minds. His voice was calm, like the soft rustling of leaves or the distant rumble of thunder.
"I am the one who gave you life," he said, not with any boasting, but with a strong presence. "You can call me the Great One. You are the first people of this land, the seeds that will grow into a thriving community. But understand this: I won't walk beside you. I won't live your lives for you. You have to shape this world for yourselves."
The humans dropped to their knees. Some were trembling, while others shed quiet tears. To them, his voice felt like a message from something beyond their own understanding.
"Great One," a man named Harold spoke, his voice shaky. "We are lost. We don't know how to survive here."
"Don't worry," Astrael replied softly. "I will guide you from a distance. You need to learn to be independent. Listen closely, and you will find success."
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Astrael began with the basics. He shared knowledge with them, giving visions of tools and methods as if they were dreams. Even without seeing him, they felt his influence shaping their actions.
"Go to the riverbanks," Astrael instructed. "The soil there is great for planting. Clear the land and sow the seeds I've given you. They will be your first crops."
Harold led a group to the riverbank, where they found bags of seeds waiting for them—a gift from the Great One. They worked hard to plant the seeds, whispering thanks in their own way, but Astrael reminded them to focus on the task.
"Remember," he said. "Farming isn't just about putting seeds in the ground. It takes patience and care. You have to understand the land and listen to your crops. Nature will show you what it needs—be aware of it."
Elara, a bright young woman, stepped forward. "Great One," she asked nervously, "how will we know when it's time to harvest?"
"When the plants grow tall and the fruit becomes heavy, that's your sign," Astrael answered.
The humans nodded, feeling a little more confident.
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Astrael then guided them to a grove with strong trees. He shared visions of how to cut down trees and turn the wood into sturdy homes. The humans worked hard, building simple shelters to protect them from storms and cold.
"Your shelter is your safe place," Astrael reminded them. "Build it strong. The storms can be fierce."
While they worked, he also taught them to make weapons—spears and bows from wood and sharp stones.
"Don't forget," Astrael warned. "You're not alone here. Some animals are friendly, but others can be dangerous. Protect what you have built, but don't start fights without reason."
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After several days of hard work, the humans began to find their roles. Harold naturally took charge, showing a knack for leadership. Astrael, watching from a distance, decided this was the right time to affirm Harold's role.
One night, as they gathered around a fire, Astrael's voice resonated in their minds.
"Harold," he said, his tone firm. "You are to lead your people."
Harold was stunned, his eyes wide. "Me, Great One? I'm not good enough for that."
"Leadership isn't just about being worthy," Astrael replied. "It means taking on responsibilities. You'll make mistakes—that's part of it—but you have to learn from them. Lead with thoughtfulness and humility, not arrogance."
Nervous but determined, Harold accepted the task. "I will do my best," he said with conviction.
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With the basics established, Astrael recognized it was time for him to step back. He knew he didn't need to manage everything. The humans needed space to grow and make their own choices.
"You've taken your first steps," Astrael spoke one evening. "Starting now, I won't speak unless absolutely necessary. Believe in yourselves and each other. You're in charge of this."
The humans fell silent, their faces a mix of gratitude and nervousness. They had relied on the Great One's guidance, but they understood the value in what he said.
As Astrael's presence lessened, he felt a twinge of guilt. "They will stumble," he muttered.
[Yes,] the system replied calmly. [But they will learn. And their growth will make you stronger.]
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Soon after Astrael stepped back, the humans faced their first major challenge. A pack of wild beasts, attracted by the smell of food, charged into their camp one night. Panic spread as the humans tried to defend themselves.
From his hidden spot, Astrael watched closely.
"They're not coordinated," he observed, seeing how Harold tried to get everyone organized.
[Will you help them?] the system asked.
"No," Astrael replied after a moment. "This is their battle."
Even without a solid plan, the humans managed to fight off the beasts. They were injured a bit but came out with a new sense of confidence.
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The next morning, Astrael's voice filled their minds again.
"You've shown your strength," he said. "Every challenge you face is a step toward growth. Learn from each experience, and you will become stronger."
The humans bowed their heads, respect for the Great One growing deeper.
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As the humans continued to adapt and learn, Astrael turned his focus elsewhere. He looked to other planets and civilizations in the vast universe.
"This is just the start," he thought. "For my people to survive, they need to become much stronger."
[Your job is to guide, not to control. Their strength will be your strength too,] the system reminded him.
Astrael nodded, feeling more determined than ever. He wouldn't interfere too much, but he would always be watching, ready to help when needed.