Elesta smiled warmly, her voice gentle yet inviting. "Shan, I'd be honored to have you join my team. You've proven yourself in ways most couldn't. What do you say?"
Shan blinked, surprised by the offer. After a brief pause, he nodded firmly. "I accept."
"Wonderful!" Elesta said, her smile widening. "Now that you've taken your first step as a god, there's something important you need to do—choose a name. Every god has a title, something that defines their essence. What will yours be?"
Shan's eyes widened as the weight of the moment sank in. He stood in silence, deep in thought. Seconds turned into minutes as he tried to find the right name, his brows furrowed with concentration.
Elesta watched him quietly, her lips curving into a soft smile.
Noticing her expression, Shan finally asked, "Why are you smiling?"
She let out a light laugh. "It's nothing," she said, shaking her head. "I just think it's endearing how seriously you're taking this. Have you made up your mind?"
Shan hesitated, then nodded slowly. "I have. My name will be… Jr.God."
Elesta raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Jr.God? That's… unexpected. Why that name?"
Shan's face softened, a flicker of nostalgia crossing his features. "Everyone used to call me 'junior' because it took me so long to complete Stage 1. They'd tease me, saying I'd never make it. But someone special… someone very close to me, called me that too—'junior.' They didn't say it to mock me; they said it with warmth, with kindness. It reminded me that even when I felt small or unworthy, I was never alone. So, Jr.God feels like a part of who I am—a reminder of my struggles and the people who believed in me."
Elesta's expression softened, her respect for him deepening. "I see," she said, her tone quieter now. "That's a meaningful choice, Shan. Jr.God it is. Wear it with pride."
She extended her hand, her voice becoming steady and commanding. "Now, come with me. I'll show you our base."
As they walked, Shan glanced around, taking in the shimmering corridor of celestial light they now traversed. Every step felt surreal, as though he was venturing into a dream. His heart pounded—not from fear, but from a mixture of excitement and uncertainty about what lay ahead.
Elesta led Shan through a pathway of shimmering golden light, each step resonating with a divine hum. They reached a towering castle that appeared to be carved from celestial crystals, radiating an ethereal glow. Elesta smiled and said, "Welcome to the Citadel of Eternal Light. This is where gods who protect this realm reside and strategize. Now, you're one of us, Jr.God."
Shan looked around in awe. The base was bustling with activity—gods sparring in open courtyards, others poring over maps of cosmic landscapes, and a few meditating in levitating pods surrounded by halos of energy. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with purpose and power.
"Come," Elesta gestured. "Let me show you the War Hall. This is where we plan our battles against threats to the realms."
As they walked through the massive hall, Shan noticed murals depicting ancient wars, gods wielding incredible powers against dark forces. One mural caught his eye—it showed a figure surrounded by a fiery aura, battling what seemed like endless waves of devils. Shan paused. "Is that... the Celestial King?"
Elesta nodded, her expression turning serious. "Yes. He is our leader, and his power is unparalleled. You'll meet him someday if you prove yourself worthy."
Shan clenched his fists. "I'll do my best."
Elesta laughed lightly. "I can already see your potential, Jr.God. But remember, being a god isn't just about power. It's about responsibility, choices, and protecting those who depend on us."
Shan nodded solemnly. "I understand."
Elesta then led him to a chamber filled with glowing weapons and artifacts. "This is the Armory of Eternity. Each god chooses a weapon that resonates with their soul. Step forward, and let one choose you."
Shan hesitated, then stepped into the chamber. A golden staff with intricate engravings floated toward him, radiating warmth. Elesta's eyes widened. "The Staff of Aeons... it hasn't chosen anyone for centuries. Shan, you truly are special."
Shan grasped the staff, feeling a surge of energy flow through him. "I won't let anyone down," he promised, determination lighting up his eyes.
Elesta smiled, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Welcome to the team, Jr.God. Your journey has only just begun."
Shan stood tall, his voice filled with determination. "I will protect this land, no matter what."
Elesta's smile faded, replaced by a look of concern. "But Shan," she said quietly, "you've already begun to fall into darkness."
Her words hit Shan like a blow. He frowned, confusion flickering across his face. "What are you talking about?"
Elesta folded her arms, her gaze steady. "I suppose you don't know who those people were—the ones who helped you overcome your curse."
Shan hesitated, guilt creeping into his expression. "They... they told me they were helping me, Elesta. They gave me what I needed."
Elesta sighed, shaking her head. "If something comes too easily, Shan, it often doesn't last. Power granted without struggle can corrupt. Be careful. Don't speak to them again."
Shan lowered his gaze, conflicted. "Okay, I won't."
A small smile tugged at the corners of Elesta's lips. "You know, I thought you might lie to me. But you told me the truth."
Shan's lips twitched into a faint smile. "I know you can read my mind, so lying would've been pointless."
Elesta laughed, her voice warm and genuine. "Fair enough. Enjoy your first day as a god, Shan. Do whatever you like today, but tomorrow, we start work. Got it?"
Shan stood straighter, nodding earnestly. "Yes, ma'am."
Elesta chuckled again and gave him a light wave as she turned to leave. "Bye, Shan."
"Bye," Shan replied, watching her walk away before taking a deep breath. He turned toward the town below, his excitement bubbling to the surface. He had something important to share with his mother.
As he made his way down the hill, his heart raced—not with fear or hesitation, but with pride. Today, he wasn't just a boy chasing a dream. Today, he was a god.