Solo Leveling: The Divine Triad (narrative)

Chapter 444: The Birth of the Nephilims and the Divine Pardon

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The Forbidden Bonds

Before the creation of celestial mothers—the female counterparts to the Heavenly Soldiers—there had been instances where some male Heavenly Soldiers formed bonds with members of lesser races such as humans, elves, and dwarves. These unions, though rare, resulted in the birth of a unique and powerful race known as the Nephilims.

The Nephilims were extraordinary beings, inheriting the strength and divine traits of their Heavenly Soldier parent while retaining the mortal essence of their lesser-race lineage. This combination made them naturally stronger and more resilient than any mortal but also left them in a precarious position within the divine hierarchy.

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Sung Jin-Woo's Intervention

When news of these forbidden unions reached Sung Jin-Woo, he did not act with immediate judgment. Instead, he summoned the involved Heavenly Soldiers and their Nephilim offspring to the Eternal Judgment Hall, a sacred place within the Godverse where divine decrees were passed.

Standing before his subjects, Sung Jin-Woo spoke with both authority and understanding:

"There were no celestial mothers before this era. The need for companionship and the bonds you formed were acts of nature, not rebellion. I will not punish you for what you could not control. However, the time has come to bring order and purpose to these children of mixed heritage."

With this declaration, Sung Jin-Woo granted a full pardon to the male Heavenly Soldiers who had fathered Nephilims, absolving them of any wrongdoing.

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The Ascension of the Nephilims

To integrate the Nephilims into the divine order and ensure their continued growth, Sung Jin-Woo offered them a choice:

Each Nephilim would be allowed to ascend by aligning themselves with one of the Divine Triad systems, gaining unique characteristics and powers tied to their chosen path:

1. The Celestial Path (Ashborn): Those who chose this path would inherit the radiance and purity of Ashborn, gaining six angelic wings and the ability to manipulate light and celestial energies. They would serve as protectors of the heavens, their presence embodying balance and justice.

2. The Shadow Path (Sung Jin-Woo): Choosing this path would grant them a second black heart and mastery over shadows and darkness. They would become Shadowkin Lords, capable of summoning shadow armies and wielding the power of the void.

3. The Draconic Path (Sung Su-Ho): This path would imbue them with the fiery essence of Sung Su-Ho, transforming them into Draconic Nephilims with scales, wings, and the ability to harness draconic flames and energy.

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The Ceremony of Choice

The Nephilims gathered in the grand Temple of Ascension, a colossal structure crafted by Sung Jin-Woo within the Godverse. Each Nephilim stood before the three representations of the Divine Triad, their glowing forms radiating power and promise.

One by one, they made their choices, stepping into the sacred light of their chosen path. As they ascended, their forms transformed, their mortal limitations falling away as they embraced their new divine identities.

Those who chose Ashborn's Path emerged with radiant wings and an aura of divine justice.

Those who chose Sung Jin-Woo's Path gained shadowy, ethereal forms, their eyes glowing with dark power.

Those who chose Sung Su-Ho's Path took on draconic traits, their forms exuding primal strength and fiery energy.

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A New Era for the Nephilims

With their ascension complete, the Nephilims became a new force within the divine hierarchy, serving as intermediaries between the lesser races and the celestial realms. They were tasked with guiding mortals, defending the Godverse, and ensuring that the divine order established by the Divine Triad was upheld.

Their unique heritage and abilities made them invaluable, and they quickly earned respect and recognition from both their celestial peers and the lesser races.

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Sung Jin-Woo's Decree

Before the ceremony concluded, Sung Jin-Woo addressed the gathered Nephilims and Heavenly Soldiers:

"The bonds you formed have brought forth something extraordinary—a bridge between the mortal and the divine. Use your gifts wisely and remember the paths you have chosen. You are now part of the eternal order, a testament to the strength of unity and the power of purpose."

The Nephilims bowed deeply, their gratitude and loyalty unwavering.

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To Be Continued...

The inclusion of the Nephilims marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Godverse, one that celebrated the diversity of creation and the boundless possibilities of unity. As the Nephilims took their place within the divine hierarchy, the Godverse grew stronger, more vibrant, and more harmonious than ever before.