Theo is a conflicted individual, who watched his family die out despite his mother's prayers and belief in God. To spite her, he changes his name to Khaladore and becomes an atheist. He spent his life with the disbelief in the existence of God. But then he discovers the truth...
Belief = Power. The more conscious minds direct focused emotional energy (worship, fear, love, hatred) at an entity, the more that entity warps physical reality. Call it Gottfaktor, mass measurement of belief as power. The bigger your congregation of believers, the heavier your footprint on the universe.
Imagine Mickey Mouse and Santa Claus being terrifyingly powerful; god tier. Yes, this law approves that possibility, and yes, Mickey Mouse and Santa Claus are in the story. The more people come to believe/worship you, the more power you get.
Theo/Khaladore now wants to defy those gods because he loathes them; but instead becomes one in the process.
MC is an atheist, communist, and homosexual. ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................