The cry of "Boss Roderick!" was like a signal, instantly setting the approaching crowd ablaze.
"We want to join too! Count me in!"
"Damn it, I watched that video ten times! That sword strike was incredible! I want to summon a Holy Spirit too!"
"Please take me in! I can do anything! I'll even sweep the floors!"
Thousands of players poured in from every side of the ruins, surrounding Roderick's group of five hundred until there was no way through.
Their eyes held a mixture of awe, fervor, and cautious eagerness to please.
They looked at Roderick as though he were a divine messenger walking among mortals.
Scott's mouth fell open and stayed that way.
He had expected the video to cause a stir, but the scene before him went beyond anything he had imagined.
These weren't merely "reinforcements." This was a migration of faith sweeping across the entire North American War Zone.
"Roderick..." Scott's voice was dry. "What do we do now? Take them all in?"
The others in the group looked troubled too.
There were too many people.
Three or four thousand, from every walk of life. Managing them would be impossible.
Besides, their food and supplies could never sustain a force that large.
"Quiet, all of you!"
Roderick's voice rang out. He did not roar, but the authority forged in blood-soaked battles and the descent of a divine miracle quickly silenced the crowd.
Standing above them, he swept his gaze over the eager faces below.
"You want to join the War Ladder?"
"Yes!" thousands answered as one, their voices shaking the air.
"You want the power of a god?"
"Yes!" Their answer was louder this time, edged with frenzy.
Roderick did not respond at once. He simply watched them until the excited players gradually calmed and some