"Do you pledge your allegiance to the Lord of Darkness?"
"I do."
"Bow at your feet and receive the Dark Gift."
The human did so, kneeling at Abyssal soil. Right in front of the beacon of light that was called the Baptismal Grounds.
As he did, he was struck by a spear's tip to the heart, staining his Gravel Hearstone with Obsidian.
Ronin made a waving gesture. "Next."
"M-My family also makes the pledge." The man said nervously, as it was his 13 year old son's turn.
The boy was followed by his mother, who was carrying their 4 year old daughter.
Ronin sneered. "It's not up to you to decide for your family to take the pledge. After all, I have promised absolute freedom and equality in this New Magecia, have I not?"
He gestured for the boy to come forward.
Maellan asked every single one of them waiting in line with the same question.
"Do you pledge your allegiance to the Lord of Darkness?"
The boy clenched his fist, and did not speak.
