*Chapter 18: Favor of the Gods*

The crowd around the arena erupted in cheers as Kenji and Percy emerged from the golden portal—bloodied, bruised, but victorious.

Chiron stepped forward, eyes filled with something more than approval: *concern*.

"You two were never meant to finish that trial so easily," he said quietly. "The elite boss was a *Level 15 Storm Sentinel*. Most demigods would've barely survived."

Kenji replied coolly, "Then maybe you should start expecting more from us."

---

*System Prompt*

> *Main Trial Completed: Olympus Week Trial I – Maze of Elements* 

> *Rank: S* 

> *Rewards: 

> – Rare Item: Stormforged Band (Equip: +10% resistance to Lightning, +5% Attack Speed) 

> – 150 Drachmas 

> – Favor Point Gained: Poseidon, Athena, Boreas*

> *Godly Favor: Poseidon – Curious Interest* 

> *Athena – Analytical Watchfulness* 

> *Boreas – Protective Pride*

Kenji opened his inventory and equipped the *Stormforged Band*, feeling energy surge through his limbs.

---

*Later That Evening – Campfire Ceremony*

The flame flickered higher than usual, blue and gold streaks dancing along the wood. Campers whispered as the fire bent toward Kenji slightly—a clear sign.

Chiron announced, "The gods have acknowledged today's feats. For the first time in decades, three divine beings have extended partial blessings to one demigod."

Clarisse scoffed. "That's not suspicious at all."

Kenji stayed silent. He wasn't interested in the politics—just the strength to survive what was coming.

---

*Private Message – System Notification*

> *New Quest Unlocked: Divine Attention* 

> *Description: Maintain Favor with Multiple Deities Without Conflict 

> Failure Condition: Provoking Divine Displeasure 

> Reward: ???*

> *Special Offer from Boreas: 

> Skill Tome – Shard Storm (Uncommon Cryo Skill) 

> Accept?* 

> [✔️ Yes] [ ] No

*Kenji accepted* and immediately felt cold particles gather at his fingertips, ready to be unleashed.

---

*Poseidon's Cabin – Later*

Percy paced. "Kenji, I don't know what you did… but the sea's been restless since we got back."

Kenji raised an eyebrow. "You think it's me?"

"I think whatever you're becoming… is making the gods nervous."

Kenji paused. "Good."

---

*Scene Transition – Olympus*

A shadow moved beside Zeus' throne. Hades leaned forward, speaking to the air.

"The boy of wind and winter… his soul *doesn't belong* to this timeline."

Zeus narrowed his eyes. "Then whose game is this?"

Athena's image flickered beside them, sharp and cold.

"Whoever he is, he's not playing by our rules."

---

*End of Chapter 18*