The ground trembled beneath Kyle's feet as divine light flooded the temple hall, washing over the walls like molten gold.
One by one, bodies dropped to their knees—or collapsed altogether—as the unbearable weight of the rising divine presence grew stronger.
He grit his teeth.
This wasn't a normal descent. This was a complete manifestation… something only the highest gods dared attempt.
Even his body, refined through countless battles and tempered against godly influence, felt sluggish. Heavy.
And yet, he surged forward.
But just as he drew upon his mana to sever the ritual, a sharp voice boomed above the dying crowd.
"There! There he is! Stop the heretic!"
The Grand Priest of Charrin stood atop the stairs leading to the altar, pointing directly at Kyle.
His long white robes shimmered with the power of divine blessing, and a manic gleam shone in his eyes as he ordered the masses to defend the sanctity of their goddess.
