### Chapter 10: Calm before the storm
**Date: October 7, 2024 - 10:00 AM**
Li Wei stepped out of the VR pod, stretching his limbs and taking a deep breath. The immersive experience of Realm of Ascendancy always left him feeling both exhilarated and slightly disoriented. As the cool morning air of his Beijing apartment greeted him, he felt the contrast between the virtual and real worlds keenly.
His apartment was modest but comfortable, filled with the hum of city life outside. He moved to the window, looking out at the bustling streets below. The city was alive with activity, a stark contrast to the serene and mystical realm he governed as an Earth God.
**Li Wei:** "Time to get some breakfast."
He changed into casual clothes, grabbed his wallet, and headed out. The convenience store down the street was his go-to spot for quick meals. As he walked, he couldn't help but notice the advertisements for Realm of Ascendancy plastered everywhere, from billboards to bus stops. The game was rapidly becoming a global phenomenon.
Inside the store, Li Wei made a beeline for the instant noodles aisle. He grabbed his favorite flavor and a few snacks, then headed to the counter to pay. The cashier, a young woman with a friendly smile, scanned his items.
**Cashier:** "Big plans for today?"
Li Wei returned her smile. **Li Wei:** "Just a quiet day at home, catching up on some reading and maybe a bit of gaming."
He paid for his items and made his way back to his apartment. Once home, he boiled some water and prepared his noodles, savoring the simple pleasure of a hot meal. As he ate, he opened his laptop and navigated to the Realm of Ascendancy official website. The homepage was filled with news and updates, along with player forums buzzing with excitement.
Li Wei clicked on a few articles, catching up on the latest developments. One article detailed the recent system update, highlighting the introduction of skills, churches, and labs. Another article discussed upcoming in-game events and competitions. The game's community was vibrant and passionate, and Li Wei felt a sense of pride knowing he was part of this expansive virtual world.
After finishing his meal, Li Wei cleaned up and decided to take a short walk around his neighborhood. The fresh air and the lively streets of Beijing helped clear his mind. He passed by a few cafes and bookstores, eventually stopping at a small park where children played and elders chatted.
As he sat on a bench, watching the world go by, he reflected on his dual life. In the real world, he was just another face in the crowd, enjoying the simple pleasures of daily life. But in the virtual world of Realm of Ascendancy, he was a god, shaping destinies and battling cosmic forces.
**Li Wei:** "Balance... that's what it's all about."
He smiled, feeling content with the harmony he had found between his real and virtual lives. With renewed energy and a sense of purpose, he headed back to his apartment, ready to dive back into the adventures that awaited him in Realm of Ascendancy.