The gale howled.
Countless animals raced across the plains, fleeing toward the rising mushroom cloud.
Countless nomadic tribes were gripped by terror and knelt toward the mushroom cloud, expressing their awe.
At the Abidos expedition camp.
The wind nearly tore the hat from Yinmen, leader of Black Cloud. The black, monstrous cloud flickering with firelight was reflected in his eyes.
Yinmen's entire body trembled slightly. He could not help but glance at his daughter, Kama, grateful that he had listened to her advice and come to meet these strangers.
Otherwise, if that Fireball had fallen upon the Black Cloud tribe, the consequences would have been unthinkable.
Kama's eyes were wide as well.
She had never imagined something like this would happen.
Still less had she expected it.
The deity worshipped by these strangers had actually answered their prayer.
For generations, they had prayed to Death without ever receiving a response.
That was also why they had neither potions nor formulas, and could only swallow Beyonder Characteristics whole.
The gods no longer answered prayers.
The War Priest spread his arms, his expression fervent as he shouted excitedly, "Praise the Lord's might!"
Yinmen came back to his senses, swallowed, and said hesitantly, "Praise the Lord of War."
The War Priest continued, "Our Lord is merciful."
"Any who believe in her, are willing to fight for her, and are willing to join the Church's battle sequence as Black Knights shall become her followers."
"They may obtain the Hunter's initial-sequence potion."
"So long as they fight bravely and accumulate sufficient contributions, they need not worry about advancing."
"At least, not before becoming Demigods."
"If they perform outstandingly, the Church may even grant them potions above the Demigod level and prepare the corresponding rituals."
Nefi stepped forward at this time. "With the Lord of War's