The campfire was lit once more, but it was different from those that symbolized the reclamation of lost territory.
The campfire used for offerings to the god was larger and more solemn. A decorative longsword with spiral patterns had even been planted in its center.
No one knew which bug had started it. But when the Sunfire God expressed surprise at the decoration, then nodded with a smile, the answer no longer mattered.
And so, all the bugs tacitly accepted the custom of planting a spiral-patterned longsword in the center of a sacrificial campfire, and it was passed down.
"Radiance, blazing heat, hope."
Three invocatory phrases, each pointing to one of Lin Jin's three qualities as the Sunfire God.
The piled charcoal began to burn without being lit, and motes of dust spread through the air.
"Please hear our prayers, accept our offerings, and guide us on the road ahead."
The flames flickered continuously until they finally took shape and steadied.
Within those flames, a majestic figure slowly formed.
It was still that same perfect body, with exquisitely crafted armor and mask, and eyes filled with warmth and compassion.
The assembled leaders, Gron among them, immediately dropped to one knee to show their loyalty.
Outside this temporary altar, farther away, the rank-and-file soldiers who were not qualified to witness or participate in the offering also clutched small divine statues carved from various materials and prayed to the god in their hearts.
Once his body had fully solidified, Lin Jin began taking stock of the offerings.
"These offerings seem different this time. Souls imprisoned in steel... interesting. It seems you have indeed run into some trouble."
"Then give your report, my believers."
The Sunfire God's tone carried an effortless authority. Quite a few bugs were so nervous that they had to