The man awoke in a cool, unfamiliar place. There was no one in sight. The air felt thin, and a heavy mist hung around him, cloaking everything in cloudy obscurity.

Hello, Elder...

It was the voice again.

"Who—who are you? Where am I?" He shouted into the air. His voice echoed, swallowed by the clouds.

I am the world. I am something beyond your perception of time. But don’t worry—you are safe.

The clouds began to stir, swirling as they slowly took shape. Hooded figures emerged from the mist—silent, imposing, and formed entirely from the vapor itself.

We need a council... those who can shape the world. Guardians to govern the realm below you. They will be the gods of this world.

“Gods? Huh? Why?” he stammered, stunned by what he saw.

You will be the first to ever step foot into the land of the gods. Don’t worry—we’ll guide you every step of the way.

The hooded figures slowly surrounded him and then merged into one, extending a single hand toward him. The man stood frozen for a moment, trying to make sense of what was happening. Then, as if pulled by something unseen, he stepped forward. His hand rose to meet theirs—but he hesitated.

He had no idea what he was getting himself into.

Then the voice returned, louder, closer.

Take our hand.

An overwhelming urge surged through him. Without thinking, he reached out and touched the hand.

A blinding light erupted around him. Power rushed into his body, coursing through his veins like fire and wind combined. Then—everything turned white.

The man awoke, now dressed differently. A cloak draped over his shoulders, a hood shadowing his face—just like the other hooded figures. He felt it immediately: a new sense of power... and wisdom, as if something ancient had awakened within him.

He felt an irresistible urge to step forward.

It is time. Your first task. Use your power to summon the Elder Gods.

Reaching into the swirling mist, the man extended his will—and shapes began to form. One by one, the figures emerged, drawn together by his command. The council was assembled. The time had come.

In solemn silence, the Elder Gods stood in formation, their eyes fixed on the distant horizon.

Now, the Elders could watch over the world—and shape it as they desired. This was the beginning of the Elder Gods.