Evergreen stood rooted to the spot, stunned.
On one side of the charred plain stood a cold, deadly formation of drones, giving off the distinct scent of metal and ionized air.
On the other stood a figure who had melted back into the shadows, as immutable as the Judgment Law itself.
In the space of half an hour, both of his teammates had crossed the boundary that separated mortals from gods.
One had become the Machine God, master of war and destruction.
The other had become the Shadow God, judge of death and defiance.
And he was still a support fighter holding a Holy Light Cross.
An isolation unlike anything he had ever felt closed around him.
Neither of those newly awakened divine auras was aimed at him, but their mere presence made his Holy Light feel as feeble as a candle guttering in the wind.
"Hey, Little Xu. What are you spacing out for?"
Season Star's voice broke into his thoughts.
She descended from the air, the metallic wings of flowing light on her back slowly folding away. Everything about her radiated newfound sharpness and confidence.
She walked up to Evergreen and nudged him with her elbow.
"Well? Is it stressful having two new gods for teammates?"
The familiar teasing was there, but Evergreen couldn't smile.
He opened his mouth and managed two dry words.
"Congratulations."
Season Star pursed her lips and stopped teasing him. She turned toward the hundred-odd drones hovering nearby, excitement flashing in her platinum eyes.
"This feels incredible. I feel like I could take this planet apart and put it back together!"
Just then, Qin Chuan's calm voice sounded in all three of their minds.
"Everyone, return to the Magic City Stronghold."
Season Star's smug I'm the greatest look vanished at once.
She waved a