"We will now begin by inspecting your basic attributes. Will the patron please come forth!"
Mendax suddenly threw his head back while raising both hands towards the sky. Two lightning bolts shot out from his palm and ignited the clouds like some ancient war engine.
*RUUUUUMBLEEE*
The space shook as the profile of a several hundred-meter-tall entity was projected onto the clouds. The gazes of all the candidates were obviously pulled towards it, towards Lord Aekor who sat on the golden throne in all his glory.
In the absence of the champion he was the highest-ranking member within the 'Sect of the Deep' and he made no effort to hide that fact. He was proud of it like most others from his sect because their Master had the most worshippers and servants amongst all of the Nine.
His mighty silhouette looked down upon the figures on the platform and none could escape his scrutinizing gaze, especially Hao Xuan who was not afraid to return the favor in much the same manner.