Chapter 81: Ascendance

A Spark of Divinity:

It begins with a mere spark, a flicker of divine essence nestled within the mortal of the god spawn. This essence, pulsating with the raw potential of creation, whispers secrets of the cosmos into the very soul of the individual. At this nascent stage, the god spawn may be unaware of their celestial heritage, yet they are drawn to moments of awe and wonder, inexplicably attuned to the rhythms of the universe.

Awakening to Destiny:

The awakening is a pivotal moment, a celestial ascendance that reverberates through the fabric of existence. It often manifests in a profound revelation or a cataclysmic event, where the god spawn's latent powers surge forth like a tempest unleashed upon the mundane world. Whether through a battle of titanic proportions, an epiphany amidst the stars, or communion with ancient spirits, the spawn's destiny becomes irrevocably intertwined with the tapestry of divine providence.

Trials of Ascension:

Ascension is not a journey for the weak. It is a series of trials, both internal and external, that test the spawn's resolve and understanding of their place in the vast cosmos. They must navigate treacherous realms where the boundaries between reality and the realm of gods blur, confronting manifestations of their deepest fears and desires. Each trial is a crucible that refines their essence, forging their spirit into a vessel capable of bearing the mantle of divinity.

Communion with Celestial Forces:

Central to the ascension is the communion with celestial forces beyond mortal comprehension. The spawn must seek guidance from elder beings of unfathomable wisdom, converse with astral entities that dwell between the stars, and confront embodiments of cosmic principles personified. Through these interactions, they glean fragments of divine knowledge and imbibe the essence of the celestial realms, transcending mortal limitations.

Transcendence and Metamorphosis:

As the spawn progresses through their trials and communion, they undergo a metamorphosis of spirit and form. Their mortal shell becomes a vessel of radiant light, suffused with the essence of divinity that blazes like a supernova. This transformation is marked by a fusion of mortal and immortal qualities, where the spawn's consciousness expands to encompass cosmic truths and their very presence exudes an aura of otherworldly power.

Elevation to Celestial Heights:

The culmination of the ascent is the moment of elevation to celestial heights, where the spawn ascends beyond the mortal plane to become semi-gods. This apotheosis is a transcendent union of mortal and divine, where the spawn's essence becomes indistinguishable from the fabric of creation itself. They become a beacon of celestial harmony, a guiding star in the vast expanse of the cosmos, wielding power that resonates with the pulse of the universe.

Legacy in the Tapestry of Eternity:

Having ascended, the spawn leaves an indelible mark upon eternity. Their deeds echo through the ages, inspiring mortals and gods alike to reach for greater heights and deeper truths. Their essence continues to weave through the celestial dance, shaping destinies and nurturing the sparks of divinity in those who dare to dream beyond mortal bounds.

In the end, the ascent of a spawn of a god is not merely a transformation—it is a symphony of creation and transcendence and something she would have to go through in this short, short moment. So Agatha ignored all else, ignored the severe tremors that assaulted the very earth, ignored the battle between Asmodai and Asaun. She focused inward, her being close to death moments earlier was the key.

She focused on that spark of divinity, ignoring the sharp shard of ice that scraped by her face. She focused on the shield she created when she was close to death, a shield capable of fending off the dark and powerful magic of the Chaosmaw Asmodai. Her magical prowess was never like that, her creation magic was never so potent. The explanation Asaun gave was wide and confusing and with Asmodai battling them, it was hard for Asaun to get any words out, even so Asaun had merely bid her to focus. The Goddess Isadora would take her to her realm if his words were to be believed. She just had to be lucky enough to actually be chosen.

She focused and focused more and more.

And then she heard not more and she felt naught more. Raging tremors were nowhere to be felt nor was the battle between Asmodai and Asaun. She opened her emerald eyes to find herself standing at the edge of a shimmering lake that seemed to stretch into infinity. The air was crisp yet warm, carrying with it the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the gentle rustling of leaves from ancient trees. She stood upon a soft carpet of lush green grass, each blade vibrant and alive beneath her feet.

Looking around, Agatha realized she was surrounded by a breathtaking landscape straight out of a fairy tale. Towering trees with bark that shimmered like silver stretched their branches towards the heavens, adorned with leaves of every hue imaginable—emerald greens, sapphire blues, and ruby reds that sparkled as if dusted with fine gemstones. Sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting a kaleidoscope of dancing lights upon the forest floor.

("The realm of a God?")

But it was not just the flora that enchanted her; the fauna seemed equally fantastical. Butterflies of iridescent colors flitted gracefully from flower to flower, their delicate wings shimmering in the sunlight. Birds with plumage of gold and silver sang melodious tunes from branches that seemed to bend under the weight of their beauty. Creatures she had only read about in fairy tales—like gentle deer with coats that glowed like moonlight and foxes with eyes that twinkled like stars—moved gracefully through the underbrush.

As Agatha wandered deeper into this enchanted realm, she came across a meadow where a crystal-clear stream meandered lazily through banks adorned with wildflowers of every kind. The water sparkled with an inner light, reflecting the azure sky above and the fluffy white clouds that sailed serenely overhead. Along the stream's edge, she spotted elves with skin like porcelain and hair that shimmered with a silvery sheen, weaving intricate patterns with vines and flowers that seemed to obey their every command.

Further on, she discovered a grove where ancient stones stood sentinel amidst a carpet of moss that glowed with an otherworldly luminescence. These stones hummed with an energy that resonated deep within Agatha's soul, filling her with a sense of peace and wonder she had never known before. Ethereal wisps of mist danced around the stones, weaving intricate patterns that seemed to tell tales of ages long past and futures yet to come.

In the heart of this magical place, Agatha found a majestic tree unlike any other. Its trunk was as wide as a castle's tower, adorned with runes that shimmered with an inner light. Its branches reached towards the heavens, adorned with leaves that whispered secrets of the cosmos to those who dared to listen. Beneath its boughs, a circle of beings—elves, faeries, and creatures both familiar and fantastical—gathered in quiet reverence, their eyes alight with wisdom and kindness.

Overwhelmed yet inexplicably drawn to this place of prosperity and life, Agatha felt a sense of belonging she had never experienced before. Here, amidst the ethereal magic and the abundance of nature, she sensed her purpose unfolding like the petals of a rare and exquisite flower. In this enchanted realm, time seemed to stand still, and Agatha knew that her journey had only just begun—a journey that would lead her to discover her true self and the boundless potential that lay within her soul. A journey to ascendance.

As Agatha stood in awe of the enchanted realm, a soft melody began to drift through the air, harmonizing with the rustling leaves and the bubbling stream. The melody grew clearer and more enchanting until a figure emerged from the dappling sunlight, gliding gracefully towards her. She had never seen this woman before, but she was sure of it, she knew who this was.

It was the Goddess of Creation and Prosperity, her presence was commanding yet gentle, radiating an aura of ancient wisdom and boundless power.

The goddess had flowing locks of liquid gold that cascaded down her back in waves, shimmering with every step she took. Her eyes were pools of deep emerald, sparkling with the light of a thousand stars, and her skin glowed with a luminescence that seemed to emanate from within. Adorned in robes that flowed like liquid moonlight, woven with threads of silver and spun with constellations, she moved with a grace that transcended mortal understanding.

"Agatha," the goddess spoke, her voice like a symphony of celestial harmonies, "you have wandered into the heart of my realm, where the forces of creation and prosperity converge. I have watched over you as you discovered the wonders of this place, for you possess a rare spirit touched by the essence of my divinity."

Agatha's heart raced with a mixture of reverence and curiosity as she bowed her head before the radiant goddess.

"Goddess," she murmured, "I am humbled by your presence and grateful for the beauty and abundance of this realm." She tensely stated.

The goddess smiled warmly, her gaze unwavering yet tender. "You stand at a crossroads, Agatha. Within you lies the potential to ascend to new heights, to become a conduit of divine energy and wield the power of creation itself. But first, you must undergo a trial—a journey of transformation and enlightenment."

Agatha listened intently, her senses heightened by the goddess's words.

"What kind of trial must I undergo for Arcane Ascendance?" she asked, her voice filled with both anticipation and determination.

The goddess's emerald eyes gleamed with a knowing light.

"The trial will test your courage, wisdom, and compassion," she explained. "You must venture deep into the heart of the enchanted forest, where the boundaries between reality and dream are blurred. There, you will face challenges that will mirror your deepest fears and desires, confront truths that have been hidden within your soul, and forge bonds with beings both mortal and immortal."

Agatha nodded, her resolve strengthening with each word.

"I am ready," she declared, her voice steady despite the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. "I will embark on this journey."

The goddess's smile widened, a gesture of approval and encouragement.

"Know that you do not walk this path alone, Agatha," she said softly. "My blessings will be with you, and the denizens of this realm will offer guidance and aid when you need it most. Embrace the trials ahead with an open heart and an unwavering spirit, and you shall emerge transformed."

With a graceful gesture, the goddess extended her hand towards Agatha. As their fingertips touched, a surge of energy pulsed through Agatha's being, filling her with a sense of purpose and destiny. She looked into the goddess's emerald eyes, feeling a profound connection that transcended words and understanding.

"Go now, Agatha," the goddess murmured, her voice a gentle caress. "May the light of creation illuminate your path and lead you to the heights of your true potential."

With a final nod of gratitude, Agatha turned towards the heart of the enchanted forest, her heart brimming with determination and wonder. The goddess watched her go, her presence a beacon of guidance and hope amidst the ethereal beauty of her realm.

("Please Ser Asaun hold out until I am finished.")