### Chapter 3: The Dawn of Divinity
**Date: August 28, 2024 - 9:00 AM**
The morning sun cast a golden glow over Beijing as Li Wei awoke with a surge of excitement coursing through him. Today was the day—the long-awaited release of Realm of Ascendancy. Two months of anticipation had led to this moment, and he could hardly contain his eagerness.
He had spent the previous night double-checking his VR equipment, ensuring everything was in perfect working order. The sleek headset lay on his desk, waiting to transport him into the world of gods and realms. Li Wei dressed quickly, his mind racing with plans and strategies he had meticulously crafted over the weeks.
As he made his way to the living room, he noticed the morning news broadcasting a segment on Realm of Ascendancy. Images of celestial landscapes and towering gods flashed across the screen, accompanied by commentary on the game's revolutionary gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals.
With a determined nod, Li Wei settled into his gaming chair and carefully donned the VR headset. The familiar sensation of immersion washed over him as the headset powered on, transporting him from his apartment into the virtual realm.
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**Welcome, Li Wei.**
The deep, resonant voice of the Avatar greeted him as he materialized in the heart of an ancient temple. The surroundings were awe-inspiring—majestic columns adorned with intricate carvings, and sunlight streaming through stained glass windows.
**Avatar:** "You stand at the threshold of godhood, chosen one. Choose your path wisely: Hell, Earth, or Heaven."
Li Wei's heart raced with anticipation. He had already made his decision long ago.
**Li Wei:** "I choose the path of Earth."
As he spoke, the temple vibrated with energy, and before him, the figure of an Earth God materialized. Clad in robes of earthy tones, with tendrils of ivy coiling around their form, the Earth God radiated a sense of harmony and power.
**Earth God:** "Welcome, fellow deity of Earth. Together, we shall nurture life and shape the world."
Li Wei nodded, feeling a surge of pride and determination. He was ready to embark on this journey—to cultivate his realm, to gain followers, and to face the challenges that awaited.
The temple faded around him, replaced by the vast expanse of his domain. Rolling hills stretched into the distance, dotted with ancient forests and shimmering lakes. Birds chirped overhead, and a gentle breeze rustled through the leaves.
**Earth God:** "Your journey begins now, Li Wei. May your reign be fruitful and your spirit resilient."
With newfound resolve, Li Wei set forth into the world of Realm of Ascendancy, ready to carve his path among the gods, to forge alliances, and to confront rival deities in epic battles that would shape the fate of the ancient realm.
As he ventured deeper into his realm, he felt a sense of exhilaration and wonder. The line between reality and virtuality had blurred completely, and he embraced this new reality with open arms.
The dawn of divinity had arrived, and Li Wei was determined to ascend to greatness in the world of Realm of Ascendancy.