MoonHouse Pavillion
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The Heavenly Realm became lively after the news spread. The lesser gods who coveted the seat at the table of the Higher Gods found this a good opportunity to submit their qualifications in high hopes of being selected.
A group of lesser gods, after hearing about the vacant seat among the Higher Gods, held an informal meeting at the MoonHouse Pavillion to discuss the ongoing rumors.
"I believe the vacant seat is just a mere rumor." One lesser god spoke, pouring himself a cup of tea.
"We all know the divine messengers always provide credible information." Another added, tapping his fan gracefully.
"I know right? My qualifications were accepted by a divine messenger yesterday." Another god said, pouring himself a cup.
"I can't believe there's an opportunity for one of us to become Higher Gods." Another lesser god smiled, raising his teacup.
"I shall treat you all to a feast if I get selected." Another added confidently, also raising his cup high.
Their teacups clinked in excitement.
The cranes moved swiftly, delivering the qualifications to the Higher Gods. After a month of sorting, a god was finally selected.
Day of the announcement—Adowa Peak
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One male messenger crane swooped down, the golden scroll gleaming in the early morning light. The messenger crane was ordered to make a public announcement about who received the vacant position.
The crane landed gracefully before the assembled deities who were present, opening the scroll. The scroll was sealed in gold thread and stamped with the stamp of the Twelve Higher Gods.
The announcement echoed across the realms:
"The vacant seat shall be filled by Lord Long Xiao." The messenger crane announced boldly, his voice, echoing the entire realm.
And just like he landed, he left swiftly after the announcement.
No fanfare. No ceremony. Just sighs and murmurs of those who coveted the position.
Silence fell over Adowa Peak, the murmurs beginning.
"Lord Long Xiao?" One lesser god repeated, nearly dropping his teacup.
"That troublemaker?" Another hissed behind his sleeve.
"Troublemaker or not, his divine merits surpass most of ours." An older goddess sighed.
"Merits? He was actively involved in the near destruction of the Mortal Realm!"
"And yet he still got selected."
A younger god crushed his qualification scroll in his fist. "I spent three centuries preparing for this selection..."
"Three centuries?" another scoffed. "Lord Long Xiao probably forgot he even applied."
Somewhere in the distance, thunder rumbled faintly as if the heavens themselves were laughing.