The War God's summons came without warning.
On the third day after the engagement ceremony, Kasrot personally came to deliver the War God's invitation. Linley didn't refuse and brought Akes along. He knew the War God would summon him sooner or later; he just hadn't expected it to happen so soon.
The main peak of War God Mountain towered into the clouds, shrouded in mist all year round. From a distance, it looked like a giant sword pointed at the heavens. Along both sides of the mountain path, named disciples could be seen practicing austerities everywhere. Some sat cross-legged with their eyes closed in meditation; others swung heavy iron swords, hacking again and again. Their clothes were soaked with sweat, yet no one looked up at the visitors passing by.
Kasrot led them up flight after flight of stone steps. The higher they climbed, the thicker the mist grew and the thinner the air became.
Deep in an underground cavern, the Magma Lake churned, its crimson light illuminating the entire cave like Purgatory. The War God hovered at the center of a gigantic fireball, a faint golden aura swirling around him.
"Linley." The War God's indifferent voice echoed through the cavern.
Linley bowed respectfully, his movements precise and proper.
The War God opened his eyes and flicked a finger. A crimson token shot through the air and landed firmly in Linley's hand. It was warm to the touch. The only character on it was "War," its strokes bold and forceful, with a faint light flowing across them.
"From today on, you belong to my side." The War God's voice remained flat. "Come find me again once your human form reaches the Saint level, or after you defeat Hedson."
Linley accepted the token and left the cavern. The whole process took