The Nine

The Nine act as the "Guardians of Astra" and are described as the absolute elite of the city's defenders and investigators. Their title is likely a direct homage to the "First Nine"—the original party of nine reincarnated heroes who served as the first protectors of the refugee camp that eventually became Astra.

• High-Level Investigations: The 9 are deployed to solve severe crises that threaten the city's stability. For example, when millions of gold pieces in tax shipments were swapped with illusionary grain by the Rogue's Association, the Ghaele specifically tasked The 9 to investigate the city's gates and subterranean tunnels to recover the missing funds.

• Salaried Operatives: Serving in The 9 is an official, paid government position. 

• Elite Tactical Force: They operate as a specialized strike team equipped with their own magical support, such as their primary wizard, Adtris Silentguard, who oversaw the tactical flooding of the city's compromised irrigation tunnels. When extreme threats arise, the Ghaele can directly authorize the deployment of a "new generation" of The Nine to quietly lock down perimeters and hunt dangerous targets.