Chapter 55: The Dawn of Divinity
The first sensation Ye Caiqian experienced as a deity was one of boundless serenity, an encompassing warmth that made him feel both infinite and deeply connected to the essence of the world itself. As the shimmering divine energies subsided, Ye Caiqian opened his eyes, instantly aware that he had transcended the limitations of his mortal form. His vision now extended beyond mere sight; he could perceive every living being on Douluo with startling clarity.
He sat cross-legged within the sacred chamber, feeling the rush of divinity flooding every part of his being. Each heartbeat echoed through his body with resounding clarity, aligning with the rhythm of the world itself. Ye Caiqian spread out his senses gently, curiously probing this newfound awareness.
The once elusive threads of destiny, the intricate patterns of luck, and the subtle flows of spirit energy now presented themselves openly to him. He saw how humanity's collective spirit flowed toward him like streams converging into a vast, tranquil ocean. His senses stretched further, touching upon cities and villages, feeling the subtle emotions of billions of lives—hopes, dreams, ambitions—all coalescing into a radiant faith.
Ye Caiqian became lost in his newfound perception, captivated by the limitless beauty and complexity of the living world. Hours slipped by unnoticed; the sky outside shifted from twilight into dawn, painting the heavens in hues of purple, pink, and gold. Ye Caiqian slowly withdrew his consciousness, the immense scope of his new power both awe-inspiring and humbling.
A familiar presence gently interrupted his contemplation. He smiled softly, recognizing the distinct aura of the God Officer. Moments later, a soft breeze signaled the visitor's arrival, as the God Officer materialized within the chamber, respectful and composed.
"Congratulations, Ye Caiqian," the God Officer greeted warmly, bowing with genuine respect. "You've achieved something extraordinary. Becoming the first god from the human race on Douluo is no small feat."
Ye Caiqian returned the gesture respectfully, feeling both gratitude and curiosity toward the figure who had watched over the world long before his own ascension.
"Thank you," Ye Caiqian replied earnestly. "Your guidance was invaluable to me."
The God Officer nodded appreciatively, studying Ye Caiqian's aura carefully. "You have crossed the threshold into divinity and entered the tenth tier. Tell me, young deity, have you considered your next steps? Your path forward?"
Ye Caiqian paused thoughtfully. In truth, despite preparing for this moment for years, he hadn't fully envisioned what followed. "To be honest, I have not yet finalized my plans. This transformation is still quite new, and I'm uncertain how to proceed."
The God Officer smiled knowingly, his eyes reflecting centuries of wisdom and experience. "That's perfectly understandable. Allow me to advise you on what many gods do at this juncture."
Ye Caiqian listened intently as the God Officer explained, "The most common and beneficial path is to build a God Temple and start gathering faith. Faith, as you have surely noticed, is the fundamental energy of divinity. It nourishes your divine body, strengthens your cultivation, and accelerates your advancement through the ranks."
Noticing Ye Caiqian's intrigued expression, the God Officer continued carefully. "In the Divine Realm, gods are classified clearly based on their cultivation and power, specifically through the number of divine rings they possess. Those who've newly ascended, like yourself now, start as 'God Officers' with a single divine ring. Advancing further, when you acquire three divine rings, you become a Third-Class God. Five rings earn you the status of Second-Class God. Seven rings mark you as a First-Class God, and those possessing nine divine rings are known as God Kings."
Ye Caiqian absorbed this information carefully, reflecting on the implications. "Then right now, I am considered a God Officer?"
"Correct," the God Officer replied. "However, you have a rare advantage. Your divine position is uniquely tied to humanity's collective destiny. As humanity thrives and multiplies, their combined faith naturally strengthens you. You can potentially advance swiftly. In your remaining century on Douluo, achieving the status of a Third-Class God is entirely plausible."
Ye Caiqian nodded thoughtfully, appreciating this rare insight. "What happens when I become a First-Class God?"
"At the First-Class level," the God Officer explained, "you will earn the privilege to bring people from Douluo into the Divine Realm itself, granting those exceptional individuals a chance to transcend mortality."
Ye Caiqian's eyes widened with realization. This was monumental. Being able to uplift other human cultivators to the Divine Realm was an incredible responsibility and a profound honor. It deepened the importance of his role immensely.
The God Officer's expression turned serious. "But you should also remain cautious. Your ascension as a human god will inevitably attract attention, both good and ill. For countless millennia, only beasts have ascended to divinity. Your presence may unsettle existing powers in the Divine Realm. Some may view your potential with suspicion, or even hostility."
Ye Caiqian absorbed this sober warning silently, understanding the gravity of this revelation. "Then I must be vigilant."
"Indeed," the God Officer confirmed. "Though, I believe you're capable enough to handle it. Remember always to remain alert, wise, and compassionate. These qualities will guide you well."
"I will heed your advice," Ye Caiqian promised solemnly, his voice steady and calm.
The God Officer's expression softened, sensing Ye Caiqian's determination. "Then my work here is finished. With your ascension complete, I shall move on to another world in need of guidance. It has been an honor overseeing your journey, Ye Caiqian."
Ye Caiqian bowed deeply, feeling genuine gratitude. "Thank you, for everything you've done for Douluo and myself. I will not disappoint you."
The God Officer smiled warmly once more before vanishing into a shimmering ripple of golden light, leaving behind only a gentle, comforting aura.
With the departure of his guide, Ye Caiqian sat alone, enveloped in serene quietness. He considered carefully everything he'd learned from the God Officer, the potential challenges he would soon face, and the monumental tasks awaiting him over the next hundred years.
He now fully understood the immensity of the journey ahead. He had transcended mortal limits and embraced the profound responsibilities of godhood. With humanity's fate closely intertwined with his own, his every action would shape their future profoundly.
Ye Caiqian pondered deeply, realizing the magnitude of his role as humanity's deity. How would he strengthen humanity? How would he guide them toward lasting prosperity, ensuring their continued growth long after he departed for the Divine Realm?
These were profound questions without easy answers. Yet, amid uncertainty, Ye Caiqian felt steady resolve igniting within him.
"I have a hundred years," he whispered to himself, determination clear in his voice. "A hundred years to build humanity's foundations, strengthen their hearts, and shape the future. A hundred years to leave behind a legacy worthy of humanity."
Ye Caiqian rose gracefully, his gaze steady, confident, and clear. The warmth of divinity radiated outward from him, resonating gently through the temple walls.
With purpose burning brightly within his divine heart, he stepped forward, prepared to embrace the monumental task ahead of him.
This was not merely the end of one journey—it was the beginning of a grander destiny.
He was now the God of Humanity, and the path forward, though daunting, was beautifully illuminated with infinite possibilities.
Ye Caiqian smiled, embracing the divine power humming gently through his veins.
It was time to shape the future of humanity.