JR.GOD

Shan reached home, his steps light and his heart bursting with excitement. He pushed the door open and called out, "Mom! I'm home!"

His mother, who was busy tending to the hearth, turned around. Seeing the joy radiating from his face, she wiped her hands on her apron and approached him. "What's the matter, Shan? You look like you've won the world."

"Mom," Shan began, his voice trembling with emotion. "I've done it. I've passed all the stages. I'm a god now."

For a moment, his mother stood frozen, her eyes wide. Then, her face lit up with a mixture of pride and disbelief. "Shan... you did it? You really did it?" She pulled him into a tight embrace, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I'm so proud of you, my son. Your hard work and determination have paid off."

Shan smiled, feeling a lump in his throat. "Thank you, Mom. I couldn't have done it without your love and support."

His mother stepped back, wiping her tears with the edge of her saree. "This calls for a celebration. Let's invite Master Yang. He'll be thrilled to hear about your achievement."

Shan nodded eagerly. "That's a great idea, Mom. I'll go invite him right away!"

His mother laughed softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Not so fast. Let me prepare something special first. You know how much Master Yang loves sweets."

Together, they began preparing for the celebration. Shan's mother cooked his favorite dishes, while Shan decorated the house with lanterns and flowers. The warm, golden glow of the evening sun added a magical touch to the scene.

Soon, Master Yang arrived, his eyes twinkling with pride as Shan shared the news. "You've surpassed my expectations, Shan," Yang said, his voice filled with admiration. "Becoming a god is no small feat. You've earned it."

The small home was filled with laughter, stories, and the delicious aroma of freshly cooked food. As they sat down to eat, Shan looked around the room—his mother's proud smile, his master's approving nod—and felt a deep sense of fulfillment.

This was more than just a celebration. It was a moment he would treasure forever.

As the celebration carried on, Shan's mother clapped her hands and said, "Let's make it even more special. Shan, why don't you invite Tilat, the shopkeeper? He's been like family to us."

Shan grinned. "That's a great idea, Mom. Tilat always has a way of making everything more lively."

Moments later, Shan returned with Tilat, who walked in carrying a basket of fresh fruits and some sweets. "A celebration, and you didn't tell me sooner, Shan?" Tilat teased with a wide smile. "Congratulations, my boy! A god in the family—who would've thought?"

"Thank you, Tilat," Shan said, laughing. "It wouldn't be the same without you here."

As the evening progressed, the small gathering turned vibrant. Tilat, with his cheerful demeanor, started telling stories that had everyone laughing. Master Yang joined in with his own tales of Shan's training days, embarrassing him in the best way possible.

Someone started humming a tune, and soon the room erupted into song. Shan's mother clapped along, her voice blending beautifully with the others. Tilat took it a step further by getting up and dancing, twirling around dramatically, making everyone laugh until their sides hurt.

"Come on, Shan!" Tilat called out, pulling Shan into the middle of the room. "You're the guest of honor—you can't sit this one out!"

Shan hesitated for a moment, then joined in, his awkward movements quickly turning into energetic dancing as the others cheered him on. Even Master Yang, who was known for his stoic demeanor, was coaxed into joining the impromptu dance floor.

The room was filled with laughter, music, and the sound of stomping feet. Shan's mother watched from the side, her heart swelling with joy as she saw her son truly happy.

As the night wore on, the celebration carried a warmth that Shan would remember for the rest of his life. It wasn't just about becoming a god—it was about sharing that moment with the people who mattered most.

As the night deepened, the lively celebration began to slow. The aroma of the delicious feast prepared by Shan's mother filled the air, drawing everyone to the dining table. Plates were filled, and laughter continued as they enjoyed the hearty meal together.

Tilat couldn't help but comment, "Shan's mom, you've truly outdone yourself tonight. This food is fit for gods—no pun intended!"

Shan's mother smiled warmly. "I'm glad you liked it, Tilat. It's not every day we celebrate something this special."

Master Yang nodded in agreement, savoring every bite. "You've always had a gift for cooking, ma'am. This meal is as wonderful as your son's achievements."

Shan blushed slightly but smiled, appreciating the praise directed at both himself and his mother. "I'm lucky to have her. She's been my strength through everything."

After finishing the meal, Tilat and Master Yang helped clear the table, despite Shan's mother's protests. "You're guests! Sit and relax," she said, waving her hands, but they insisted.

"After such a meal, it's the least we can do," Tilat said with a grin, stacking plates.

When everything was cleaned up, it was time for Tilat and Master Yang to head home. Tilat stretched his arms above his head. "Ah, what a night! Thank you for the food and the celebration, Shan's mom. It's been a long time since I've felt this much joy."

Master Yang nodded, a rare smile gracing his face. "Indeed. Tonight was a reminder of what truly matters—community and family. Thank you for your kindness."

Shan's mother bowed her head slightly, her eyes shimmering with gratitude. "It was my pleasure. You're always welcome here. Thank you both for being such an important part of Shan's journey."

Shan walked them to the door, thanking them again for coming. "It wouldn't have been the same without you two. Safe travels back."

As the two left, the soft glow of the moonlight lit their path, and Shan watched them go, feeling a profound sense of contentment. He turned back to see his mother tidying up and joined her.

"Mom," he said softly, "Thank you. For everything."

She smiled, brushing a strand of hair from his face. "You've made me the happiest mother in the world, Shan. Now, rest—it's been a big day."

With that, Shan headed to his room, the warmth of the evening still in his heart as he drifted into a peaceful sleep.