Gods and the Man in Black

"I am a god!" The hidden presence spoke with a hint of arrogance. Gods were considered legends in the world, especially since the heavens no longer allowed ascension to godhood. People gradually became uncertain about the existence of gods.

"If you're a god, why hide and avoid showing yourself?" Qin Yudie scoffed, not believing the words of the hidden presence. In a world where becoming a god was nearly impossible, she found it hard to trust someone claiming to be one.

"I truly am a god. In a great battle long ago, I suffered severe injuries and was sealed in this mountain. I only awakened recently. If you break the seal for me, I can offer you the assistance of a god, making you also become—a god!"

...

Meanwhile, as Xu Yan was painting, incorporating the principles of the Tao into his artwork, he felt an uneasy sensation. It was a sudden and fleeting feeling of discomfort, but it gave him a premonition of trouble.

The system spoke, "Master, something happened outside."