Murphy fulfilled the Creator's promise under the urging of the being called "Netherworld Consciousness"—who was, in fact, a big shot dragged in to cover someone's shift—and set the plan called "Shadow of the World" in motion.
The instant he completed the handover of authority, Murphy clearly heard what seemed to be the entire Netherworld cheering. Even the ancient kings outside the pyramid let out delighted laughter.
For a moment, Murphy felt the Netherworld begin to "expand," like a long-awaited tide surging outward after the dam that had held it back finally collapsed. Its vast, icy will was so powerful that Murphy felt himself "melting." It was as if he had become part of the Netherworld, pouring in every direction through the void like liquid mercury.
Just as Murphy was about to lose himself in the sensation, a sharp rebuke exploded in his mind, bringing him back to his senses.
"Don't be afraid. This is just a sensory illusion. It's normal to misperceive things the first time you come into contact with the source of power. It doesn't mean you're a weakling, although you are, in fact, very weak. In pretty much every sense."
At last, the voice was no longer impossible to describe in words. It became a cold voice with an underlying warmth and calm, speaking into Murphy's ear:
"I still have a little time, so I might as well give you a final handover. If you have any questions, ask quickly."
"Um, how should I address you?"
Murphy asked. The other party made a dismissive noise and said, sounding uninterested:
"You shouldn't address me at all! Didn't that annoying fellow tell you? Our names have power of their own. For you to know mine at this stage would be no good for this fragile world.
"That fellow represents