John knelt before the projection of Linsley, his heart pounding with reverence and gratitude.
He had lived his entire life with nothing—no power, no status, no hope. Yet here he was, no longer a wasteborn, but an Archbishop of the Sinclair Order, gifted with power beyond his wildest dreams.
As he rose to his feet, his mind still racing from the flood of knowledge and energy, he knew that everything had changed.
"Thank you, my God," John said, his voice trembling with devotion. "I swear to serve you with all that I am. My life is yours."
Linsley's illusory avatar regarded him calmly, his expression unreadable. "You have been given much, but remember this: just as power can be bestowed, it can also be taken away. Remain loyal, fulfill your duties, and the Sinclair Order will raise you to heights beyond mortal reach. But stray from the path, and you will face judgment."
