In the beginning, at the dawn of time, in the infinite and endless void. Universe was born. Not as mass condensed into a single point but a stream running through the void. On that stream there were barely visible small pebbles. The kinds on which one could cross the stream jumping on them. The stream itself seemed to flow for eternity, infinitely beyond what any mind could fathom, as if it had always existed and encompassed everything it contains.
Upstream the pebbles slowly began glow, emitting small light. Some flickered like broken streetlights, some dimmed for eternity and some became brighter lighting up the void itself. Downstream the pebbles stayed dull for far longer, till some also slowly started to glow. However never quite becoming as dazzling as the ones upstream
Eventually other streams were born as well. Some larger, some smaller. Some even combining with other rivers. Some of them even ended up having their streams collide and start forming entire lakes.
Flash—
A single bright light shot out from one of the pebbles upstream. The glow penetrated the void as it travelled at an unfathomable speed down the stream. It was like a shooting star, it narrowly avoided countless pebbles along the way. Then it reached a corner long forgotten in the universe. One where all except one dim, barely lit pebble had died.
By some sheer of coincidence or maybe a greater plan. The shooting star perfectly hit the pebble vanishing into it without a trace of anything happening. The pebble hit however slowly started to flicker, changing between brighter and its original dimness.
In the eternal darkness. a single ethereal voice resounded
"How interesting"
The voice was light, as if something was amusing. The kind of reaction parents give to their kids talking about their little shenanigans. Amused.