"Because I choose to."
Born to a Miqo'te mother, and a Garlean father on the Isle of Val, Aster has always struggled with her place in the world. In her youth she dreamed of becoming a geologist, and an archeologist, but such dreams were not meant to be. Tragedy, in the loss of her father, and Imperial schemes, set in motion by her mother, led her down a very different road.
Though chosen by Hydaelyn, Aster does not boast her title as the Warrior of Light, and would rather be rid of the powers gifted to her altogether. She instead refers to herself as the Bearer of the Torch, with an understanding that she carries the hopes of those who died for her, and those who live to fight at her side.
Aster wields the power of a White Mage, first by way of a living staff that lent her his powers, and then by stolen and modified Empire magictek. She cannot use magic alone. Past attempts have left her scarred, and because of her Garlean blood, she will never master any magic unassisted.