Amaunator stalked the woods around Shachi and flared his aura to reveal anything unseen. He acknowledged that the creature – whatever it was – uses the shadows to its benefits, and hoped to keep Shachi safe by cocooning her. “Shachi, you can come out. I think it’s gone,” he whispered. Luckily, Evaise had really gone. He felt sated enough to not want to attack this strange pair of mortals.

When Shachi reappeared she was bleeding. Maybe not severely or life-threateningly, but it made Amaunator all the more alert. His God instinct kicked in to protect every mortal around. “You’re hurt. Are you alright? Can you walk?” For all his speechcraft, questions were blurted out like flying fish in a net, and his attention was so fixed on everywhere around him, he cursed the limitation of dual, fixed eyesight.

“I... I think I'll be alright... The wound isn't too deep. I have a bandage with me, so I can tie it up. I… I think I can walk!” It pained Amaunator that his energy was fading fast since he’d plummeted to the humble earth and had been running at as fast a pace as he could muster. Now when it was most needed, he could either heal Shachi and have her stall with him because he couldn’t run all the way to the village of MJ or he could not heal her, but help her get there quicker than she might have herself if healed. The quicker route was preferred. Who knows what horrors this wood held?

“Here, let me help.” She had started to unpack the bandage from a satchel on her belt and looked sheepishly on the bloody wound. He picked her up and let his ears guide them to the nearest stream to clean out her wound. He expertly cleaned and bandaged her arm, all the while having her keep an eye out for weird shadows or movements. “What was that? Have you ever seen it here?”

“No idea what that creature was. We have none of those where I come from. It fought like a man, but moved like a beast! It most resembled a shade, but its... presence felt nothing like that of The Dreamer and her tools...” Amaunator remembered that Shachi like her kin had felt first-hand how The Dreamer wielded her powers. She would have known. “I had hoped Your Holiness could shine some light on the situation. I would also like to thank you for my rescue. The Teachings are correct to speak highly of you. I... should have not been caught by surprise so easily. It is unbefitting of my training.” She hung her head as Amaunator helped her up.

“Nonsense. If you hadn’t acted as you did, you wouldn’t have lived past the first strike. This foe had the upper hand, the benefit of masterful stealth and the effect of surprise. Under the circumstances you saved yourself wonderfully and I don’t believe for a second BattleF would think any less of you for sustaining a scratch, and neither do I. However, now comes the matter of getting to MJLover’s village. I want to get you out of here as fast as lightning, so I’ll leave the healing up to BattleF when we get there. I’ll be using up all my reserves to rush you out of harm’s way. You point the way.”

He took her tenderly in his arms; This sure was a strange feeling for both of them. “Oh really, no, I’ll be fine! Thank you, Honourably Amaunator.”
“Hush, we don’t want him, or it, hearing us, now do we?” He smiled and lowered his aura. “Now tell me, which way?” She conceded and pointed the way, trying to crawl into herself, be as little a burden as possible. After several hours of running they finally heard human sounds beyond the tree line and saw light flow into the shadowed archway of foliage. As Amaunator burst into the town and was steered to the other gods’ position, however, he was in for a shock. He put Shachi down on shaky legs, Kaori coming to her aid to support her.

“What is thát doing here!?” he pointed at Kremin and in his rage flared his aura like an explosion while sweat pearled his brow. “Explain yourself, creature! You attack and yet antecede our presence? Answer me! And you better have a reason for keeping it alive!” The dramatic tension rose a few inches again. Too bad he didn’t have a sword to swing around in Kremin’s general direction…

---

Bathing in eternal sunlight...

{Sig Made By SenileSkunk!}

*The situation was becoming more and more chaotic, not helped by Shachi disappearing into her shadow at the sight of Kremin, and the sound of giant footsteps approaching in the distance, as BattleF08's creature Jimmy was also heading towards the village. BattleF08 himself was still conflicted about whether to agree with MJLover, or point out the serious lack of wisdom in the decision, when Amaunator arrived. One thing was for certain though, the Shade Kremin seemed overly much into trying to convince anyone that would listen of his personal truths. These were not lies, but opinions, supported by all sorts of incriminating facts that did the opposite of helping his case. It could easily have lied, but didn't. Considering its tendency to spout horrible truth, it was unlikely it would lie about MJLover being the first god he attacked, meaning he could not have attacked Amaunator*

Well Kremin, it seems your companion is still out there trying to kill people. Amaunator, I know how you feel, but this guy isn't the one that attacked you. He does kill mortals for food and thrill however, and is quite talkative about it. He claims instinct is to blame, and that he is not . He seems willing to try different paths of lifestyle, and MJLover here means to guard and guide him in this.
*The summary of BattleF08 is uncharacteristically emotionless, betraying that his own opinion isn't in the words*

I'd say the decision is not the wisest one. The difference between animal and sentient being lies in the distinction between using instinct and rational mind. Kremin's instinct may be to hunt, but his rational mind takes control of what and how. He chooses to hunt humans since it is more entertaining. Deriving pleasure from causing harm is undeniably . Kremin is through nature and nurture, and it is unknown whether he has a soul that can turn him away from this. He seems willing to try, which is a first step, but if he is indeed driven by instinct, he may act less tame when he is no longer starved for the food we can give him.

However, MJLover, if this works out, it would certainly be a thing for this world. As you yourself have some experience getting back from , you'd be the person most suited for it. You have a load of responsibility here, but I respect your decision. Kremin, if you can truly overcome your nature, and learn to value the lives of those you would consider food, I will owe you a great apology. That's the last I'll say on this. You may want to find your companion and offer him the same deal.
*Shachi has emerged from his shadow again, as there seems to be no direct danger, and BattleF08 has spotted her injury*
I may not be so forgiving if I encounter him first.

Now then, welcome Amaunator and Shachi. Sorry for the confusing situation. I'm glad to see you are both alright. How bad is your injury Shachi?
"I'm alright, please do not worry about me. I'm certain it looks worse than it is... I have a full report on the Tree Temple if you desire it..."
Very well Shachi, well done. I would like to hear about the temple, but a little later. For now, we should update Amaunator on the current situation. Urgent things have happened.
"Of course, my god."
*BattleF08 is considering if he should heal Shachi's injury or not, when his creature arrives and solves the problem. His trained eyes spot an injury and he is quick cast a heal miracle over the gathered group of mortals and gods. BattleF08 greets his creature, who appears to be in need of some healing himself, still battered from his fight with Meiji. Yumeko has also regained consciousness and reoriented herself. She flies off to greet Jimmy, and Kagami who is accompanying him*

*Meanwhile a kick from Kaori sends a pebble flying over the village. She has grown a bit frustrated. Her god was right in all things, of course, but she would have liked to actually witness her god fighting. Now they would have to tolerate the presence of that horrible creature. She also felt somewhat left out of the situation. She'd been planning to join the fight to prove herself. To hurt her pride further, the monster has chosen Kinfu as an example of an interesting woman and Shachi had just arrived, being carried around by that very beautiful god, Amon-something. Of course, she would have been more jealous if she did not think all gods were just as asexual and incapable of romantic feelings as her own god. How could an immortal god possibly favor one mortal so far above the rest of his worshippers, right?*

*She walked over to Kinfu. It would be hard to get the spotlight now, after Shachi was carried onto the scene by a freaking god. She figured she could make some small-talk with Kinfu*
Hey Kinfu, how have things been here since I last visited?
"Ohh, things have been fine. Apart from having met this… creature before. The villagers are all fairly calm, apart from strange encounters outside the city, surely Kremin is to blame for those as well."
"Seems probable. Hopefully its over now. Your god seems to be ready to take some risks here. Personally I'd like to see it try to eat us. I bet we could kick its butt! Knock out its teeth or somewhat"
*Shachi also decides to join up with Kaori and Kinfu*
"Greetings Kaori, and you must be general Kinfu, commander of MJLover's people. I have heard of you. My name is Shachi."
"Another one of Battle’s ninja’s? I hear you all have different talents! Pleased to meet you. Although I do not run the city, I do take the liberty wishing people welcome and ask them to feel as if home!"
"I am honoured to make your acquaintance, general Kinfu. How has the situation been in this area?"
Oh it seems things are going downhill fast. MJLover escaped from some beings called the Titans, who want to open some sort of portal.
"The T.I.T.A.N.s? I was under the impression they had all been destroyed in ages past?"
I guess not. How about you? You seemed to have had a good time...
"Whatever do you mean?"
Well, you were carried here, by that god.
"What? I was injured. We were attacked!"
Yeah, but I'm sure you enjoyed it. You're totally into romantic things like that.
"Ah, I see you are attempting to tease me. Your notion is ridiculous however. There can be no feelings of romance between mortals and gods. Your focus should be on more important things."
No need to get defensive about it. I'm just making small-talk. What do you think Kinfu?
"Gods and mortals in affairs? I don’t doubt that at all. All of our gods are quite loving and caring, after all."
*As Shachi is caught in surprise at Kinfu's words, Kaori can't help but notice a small blush on Kinfu's face and short glance at her god. Her slight surprise quickly turns to a sly grin. Time for some joking around*
Why do you seem so embarrassed? Did something happen between you and MJLover? You have to tell us more details! Did he walk in on you bathing? Did you walk in on him showering? Ooh, did he give you a kiss to help you forgive him? *Gasp* Don't tell me he made you one of those Disciple Breeders I've heard about! *Kaori pokes her in the side jokingly*
"*Sigh* Don't let her spread weird rumors into the world, honourable Kinfu. She's known for causing quite a bit of mischief back home."

*After healing Jimmy a little, BattleF08 joins the conversation with the gods again. MJLover no doubt wishes to tell Amaunator about the TITANS and their plans*

---

*The skeleton remains still, unburdened as it was with the need to move in order to speak.*

While the Sun hides nothing is done.

*The creature falls silent. Though its words are few there is much implied. If one may make the metaphor, it seems as though the god Skunk and his companions were just given a quest. Just as in most online RPGs, the quest is slightly irrelevant to the task at hand and probably doesn't really need to be completed. In fact chances are the quest giver is just trying to get rid of the pestering player. Given the scope of the task, "Banish the entire shade swarm of the Jade Emperor," one could infer that the creature really didn't want to ever talk to Skunk again. Of course, that is just inference. Maybe the skeleton really hoped Skunk could bring back the light so he could live in his little subterranean home with an easy mind.*

My bet is on the first theory.

---

*Ah, how wondrous to fly! How remarkable the feeling, to soar unhindered by gravity above the heads of all around you! Undoubtedly, these are the thoughts which surge through the mind of the pebble kicked by Kaori, before it inevitably lapses back into deep consideration of the nature of reality and whether “I think, therefore I am” can be considered a true proof of one's own existence.*

*The grand arc of the tiny stone is brought to an abrupt halt two metres before it can complete the journey back to earth, however, as a hand swiftly darts up and snatches it from the air, seemingly unconcerned by the difficulty seeing in the new darkness of the Boards. With slow deliberateness, the catcher brings the stone down to eye level, and sniffs it in consideration.*

Smells like people. This came from a village, so that would make it... er, that way, I think.

The same direction as the footsteps, then? Let's hope that was one of ours.

Relax! The Ontontin of the Jaguar Knights and the great Tlacochcalcatl Xipil, warrior of the White, she who can rout the dead? I don't think we've got much to worry about, eh?

Yes, yes, very pretty. But without any troops, we might not fare so well against an invading Creature.

I'll just hiss and arch my back. I can look pretty big if I do that.

*Itotia grits her teeth as the two of them gradually make their way in the general direction of MJLover's village.* Nagual, please try to take this seriously. The Oracle has been abducted, the Chancellor's after us again, and the sky is gone. We need to see the other avatars and combine our forces, or we're doomed. Now let's just hope we can get to that village quickly, and that you've been able to navigate us into friendly territory properly. That way to the village, right?

Er... yes, Tlacochcalcatl. Sorry.

Apologies for the wordy-and-not-really-doing-much post, but I didn't want them to just drop in on the village all of a sudden, since it looks like there's about fifty different characters around there who might intercept them on the way .

Also apologies for the long absence/abrupt reappearance, I've been shamed into it by everyone else being just as busy as me and still managing this... but feel free to set fire to my characters if I'm just getting in the way .

---

*MJLover hasn't taken his eyes of Kremin yet; was it really wise to keep him alive? Battle was right, he was evil. But Battle fought for MJLover in the past in order for him to change back, and he has changed back thrice already, so why not Kremin? If anything, it should be easier to change a mortal back. But then again, he wasn't evil at heart, he claimed anyways, he was just by nature, and nature rarely proves easy to change.*

Welcome, Amaunator! *he begins,* And... my apologies for our last encounter, I've been briefed on what happened. *his tone of voice dies down a bit as he expresses those last words.*
Forget that last encounter. We both lost there, but I want to know what's going on in this encounter before it spins out of hand just as well! Why are you all so hesitant to raise a blade to the thing? I'd draw swords in the blink of an eye, but I am as of yet without, so I say: raise your swords and vanquish it. The stink of evil rises from it all the same whether it has told you anything else!
Noted. I respect your advice, but he has proven he can choose whether to hunt humans by not attacking Kinfu. However, Kremin is the least of our problems, Amaunator. Fei is mobilising, and with him the TITANS.
*Amaunator halts in every meaning of the word as a hidden cog way up in his godly brain slides into place.* TITANs? *Of course, of course, of course! How the past haunts us even now that we have fought the present for some ten times already.* And, hmm, *his mind starts and gears for a quiet jog around the slim information he has just been handed as a map of the Boards stretches out in his mind with hundreds of tiny little players moving to and fro, and he finds that a lot has gone on that he has known about and should be able to convey, but can't because of its speculative nature. He moves his gaze around the benevolent circle of villagers that watches from a distance while he notices how Shachi has been healed and started an engaging conversation of her own already.*

Okay, so we've got these vampiric bats fluttering about," he motions to Kremin while he supports his head with his other hand, "and then we've got Fei mobilising a huge semi-mortal army, buffed by scores of shades, sohei, a strange demonic creature that feeds off godly essence - the others looked at him but he waved the notion to a more appropriate time - and the TITANs are back as well?

Considering the impending doom, I would not advise embracing an adder to your chest, MJLover, but if you feel that he can change, then I won't stop you. But just remember that gods can change more easily than mortals can. We have time and patience that they do not. And our nature is far more superfluous than theirs'. At least promise me you won't let him out of your sight anytime soon?

I understand your concern, and I don’t disagree with it. He’ll stay within my sights until he has proven himself trustworthy. *Kremin couldn’t help but feel a little uncomfortable in his current situation. Not only did every single one of the gods dislike him, they were giving him an “obey or die” choice. Either stay close to MJLover, or be hunted down and killed. He didn’t want to die, so the obvious choice was to obey. He cringed a bit; the hunger was starting to take its toll.*

But back to the real issue at hand. On top of the sohei, shades and the demon, add in fallen angels as well. An unknown force. I think it is quite true that we don’t have the armies to defeat his, and I’m sure he’ll find a way to keep us gods busy from doing much damage to the numbers. I think we should be thinking about a pre-emptive strike, or force his attack into an area where his numbers count for little. Considering the angels, I’d rather go with the former.

---

Skunk emerges from the tunnel to a semi-relieved CoolAZ and Noboru.

"Nothing but a crazy old fool. We shall continue on our way to MJ's village," says Skunk as he marches past CoolAZ.

As the group begins walking Skunk explains the details of the conversation he had with the skeletal mage. Noboru and CoolAZ are just as befuddled by the nature of the creature, but are quick to dismiss the whole incident for the time being.

After a little while voices and general banter are heard through the bushes nearby the trio's path. Upon inspection Noboru notices that the noise is coming from a group of Battle's ninjas; colleagues of his.

"Greetings friends!"

---

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I think we should be thinking about a pre-emptive strike

*A streak of illuminating lightning arches through the thick black clouds of the Shades, stirring memories of the moon among those oppressed by the darkness. The accompanying clap of thunder resonated across the imprisoned world. It effect was like that of a horn on a battlefield: it gave orders. Somewhere far from the Gods, the clouds swirled and tighten, opening a great circular gap in the sky through which the light of the sun rushed to penetrate. A great column of sunlight now bore down upon a plain in the south of the Thread. It golden hue was fitting, for lack of it had truly made it as precious as the metal.*

*Arcs of lightning weaved across the clouds, and formed an orchestra to play a symphony of thunder. As the echoes superimposed, a voice could be distinctly heard amongst the boom.*

Gods of Eden, The Jade Emperor would parley with you. Come to the light, or forever know darkness as denizens of the void. Where the Emperor leads, all follow.    

*Sitting comfortably at a low table, sipping upon tea beneath the light of the afternoon sun, Emperor Fei conversed genially with a group of surrounding monks. The plain around them was unusually lush. Plants were flowering out of season and with irregular an abundance of blooms. The Emperor's aura would be envied by every gardener.*

*A member of the Sedatsu, identified by his tight black uniform and lotus emblem, weaved himself between the ranks of the Emperor’s guards. He passed between lines of attentive but statuesque Sohei, each warrior holding his naginata as if it was expectant of some sudden combat. He ducked under the searching arm of a Pallas, and survived the disdainful scan of a Koios. He survived the hungry glances and high-pitched cackles of predatory shades. Reassured by the presence of human monks, he interrupted the Emperor.*

The demon rouses, High Sovereign. 

You have a profusion of my thanks, Archimandrite. I shall extend to him my invitation. 

*The Sedatsu bowed and retreated backwards to clear the way for two Sohei to march forward into his former position, dragging by the arms an imp. They dropped him before Fei’s feet. The Jade Emperor smiled down benignly at the creature only just recovering from torture and physical injury in Iga.* 

I am Fei, Son of Heaven, I have rescued you, at great cost, from your imprisonment and torture. For this service, I ask nothing in return, for the relief that the knowledge that one less noble creature suffers brings is a reward itself. Yet, I suspect your long absence may cause difficulties for you with your comrades in mercantile pursuits. To enable you to return triumphant, I hereby offer you the following highly lucrative proposition, at great expense to my treasury.  

*He imperiously waved a gnalred finger and the Sedatsu came forward, bearing a scroll.*

I trust that your talents will be up to the task?

---

The Original Crazy Reactionary

*The little imp was confused with the situation he woke up to. The being before him, which resembled a god well enough, claimed to be his rescuer, but he was being carried by the very eyeless humans that had assisted in the little torture session he endured and had been the cause of his loss of consciousness. The god before him wasn't just the one commanding the eyeless ones; he had also been there when the imp was captured. Still, it didn't really matter to the imp whose side everyone was on, for it seems his encounter would be coming to a successful end with a sale being made. He was uncertain of what exactly he had done to accomplish this, as his entire operation had seemed to fail miserably up until this point, but that wouldn't stop him from taking full credit for successfully attracting a customer*

*He eagerly looked over the scroll he was handed, analyzing the projects detailed upon it. He scratched his head a couple of times in consideration, trying to figure out how they accomplish such an undertaking. He concluded it the group of them would be up to the task. Now he had to say some words that both confirm their ability and desire to work on this project, while still expressing the great effort it would take, so as to be able to claim high rewards for the work*
We can do, yes. Will be taking lots of hard work. Great effort! Must be perfect of course. If we not make perfect items, we not be able to give... war-entities. First project not taking very long if we working very hard. You is sneaky smart person though, but we be making sure it not usable on us to give you discount. Second project long work though.
That's alright. It doesn't need to be delivered all at once. I am proposing I pay that one in installments, rewarding in accordance with your progress.
Hmmmm. That not a bad idea. That alright. Sepherion flying back now with scroll. Very late already! Please visit soon to make payment and get first item, when we finish.
Alright, I will visit in due time. Be off now, little salescreature. I am expecting more visitors and I would rather these projects do not become known to them.
*Sepherion flies off. Respecting the privacy of the customer is important of course, even if he would have rather stayed to inform further visitors of the workshop. For now it is probably most important to return with the workshop's assignments. He is also in a hurry to return as his companions may have taken him for dead and could be dividing his part possible profits right now!*
-------------------

*Noboru is glad to see the other ninja and is quick to inform them of the undead they discovered. The gods Skunk and CooLAZ are greeted respectfully by the cheerful group. They seem much at ease, which could be related to them being in the proximity of two gods now. It's certainly a safer way to travel when unnatural darkness covers the lands. The group travels fast now, aided by many eyes looking out under the light of plenty of torches, and it isn't long before the group reaches the edge of the forest. Other than the attempts of some ninjas to spook the others in the forest, making use of the eerie situation, nothing much of interest is encountered. Under this relative carefree atmosphere, Skunk, CooLAZ and the group of ninjas reaches MJLover's village. As the gods are greeted, BattleF08 gives them a quick update*

Hey CooLAZ, Skunk. Seems we're all sort of gathered here now. Some quick information, to get you up to speed: The being of darkness over there that might have caught your eyes is named Kremin and has supposedly joined MJLover in order to obtain its food in alternative ways. There is another around, which is still hunting for mortal bones. Stay alert, but, well, know that there is a chance it can be reasoned with. Other point, Amaunator has recreated a gigantic Tree Temple with connections to all the flora and fauna on The Boards. He's taken responsibility of its safety. There is also a demon that attacked Amaunator to look out for.

Now then, on to Fei, which is probably the threat you've come here to discuss. His thing with the clouds is obvious to see. It's actually caused by his shades. Now, it turns out there are also the TITANs to deal with.
"Titans?"
Ah, the TITANs are highly advanced robots that apparently have been around since before the banishment most gods endured for 1000 years.
"Ah, robots, like Cortus was."
Yes, though without conscience and with a tendency to both sing and dance, and somehow cause this behavior in others at times. At any rate, they attacked MJ and seem to be aiming to open a portal to a prison dimension of fallen angels. I'm sure the toughest of those we have already faced the last time this portal opened, but there could still be plenty of lower class sealed in there. I personally wouldn't mind facing them as I hate to leave threats lurking about, but its just more trouble we don't need right now.
"Seems there is a lot to prepare for"
Indeed, we were about to start discussing what our next steps would be. I understand urgency is needed, but considering the amount of enemies we could potentially be facing, I would love to give my ninjas another training session in my realm. Right now their skill is probably insufficient face the mystical and physical forces aligned against us. Did you two encounter anything of note in the world?

"Well, we had weapons forged at an imp workshop. The work is quite amazing. We also encountered a dug-in undead inside the forest. It claims to have no purpose while the skies are darkened..."
Interesting. It's to hear the imp workshop is proving to be what the flyers claimed. I may make use of it sometime. As for the undead, that is a rea-*BattleF08 is interrupted by a thunder in the sky, followed by a hole in the clouds letting the sun shine onto a section of land somewhere south of them. A booming voice confirms that they are indeed being summoned to that location, by none other than Fei himself*

Well, I guess the wait is over. We might as well go and meet with him. If he is still working out of Kaiser's "How to be an dictator"-book, this is the stage where he will show off his power and confidence, claiming there is nothing we can do to stand in his way anymore. He may also try to temp or pressure us into joining him so he can claim more twisted moral high-ground later.
*BattleF08 opens up a two-way Vortex to the site indicated by Fei as meeting point, leaving it open for anyone who wishes to go*
It would be rude to disappoint of course. Still, it may be a ruse. I doubt he plans an ambush, but he may be trying to take out attention away from other places. MJLover, I suggest you keep the guard here on high alert, in case of attack. My ninjas, please aid MJ's people in this as best you can. Should anything happen, send someone through the Vortex. If anyone has prayer power to spare, this village may do well with a shield.

I'll leave everyone to decide whether to show up or not. It may well be a trap. I'm going as any glimpse we can get into Fei's true plans and intentions is a worth taking a chance on. Besides, some may come of this meeting either way it turns out. See you later, or see you on the other side!
*BattleF08 is quick to dive into the open portal. Not the wisest decision perhaps, but when only his own life is at stake, the Lunar god is quick to charge into danger. It's unclear whether the others would so quickly follow his actions, or discuss the situation first. BattleF08, on his end, was already approaching Fei's lovely tea party*
Very subtle, Master Fei. Well, let's hear it then...

*Unfortunately for BattleF08, he leaves right before the people of Iacobus also stumble into the village, who could possibly delay the arrival of his allies for a good time. Still, BattleF08 would probably even have undertaken this action, had he been alone, so the others are under no moral obligation to rush after him, to a potential opportunity for death and tea*

---

*On his way to the villages, Shalriek was stopped in his tracks; the lightning strike message didn't just catch or grab his attention, it more seized it by the throat, pinned it against a wall and started screaming in his face... Or more appropriately for Fei, speaking gently and politely while offering a biscuit...*

Best go see who turns up, I guess.

*He said this half to himself, half to Omega who was still perched on his shoulder, stony tail coiled around his master's arm.

The god set off at a run towards the column of golden light, intending to keep his distance to see who else had chosen to answer the summons.*

*A short distance away from the site where great things were about to happen, a vortex violently opened. Before it had even reached its full size, a Fuyushimo came out. Without delay, he rushed towards the gathering point, the portal closing in his wake.*

*A few of the monks who witnessed it were alarmed when they saw the deity storming towards them, but since there were no bloodcurdling screams uttered, swords drawn or miracles tossed at them, they didn't flee - I mean, tactically retreat - at the sight of him. Which was , because it allowed one of them to recognise the god as an ally. Shortly after, a sedatsu appeared on the scene.*

Ah, you have come. I -
Yes, I'm pleased to make your acquantaince. *The deity said in a friendly tone whilst carefully but resolutely turning the man in the direction of the assembled group whilst keeping up the pace, forcing the man into a steep stride.* However, I believe there's not all that much time before the other deities arrive, and I kind of have a small request.
What request are you -
Oh, nothing special, I assure you. Spoke to the Jade Emperor about it too. So if you could be kind enough to - *At this point, a Koios bot loudly clears his mechanical throat in the preparation of the songs he will likely be singing soon to praise the glory of the Jade Emperor. This conviently censors what was being said, of course.* - I'd really appreciate it.
Ah, of course, that's not -
Less talking, more acting. It'll be a lot more amusing for me if nobody notices it before it's too late. Step up the pace.

*And so, alongside a sedatsu which is moving a lot faster than he probably should, Fuyushimo dissapears in the crowd, to do whatever he wanted to do. Meanwhile, not too far from the deity, a vortex created by a certain Lunar Deity has begun to open up...*

---

As Skunk glances over the new arrivals he seems to recognise them in some way. Perhaps he had seen them somewhere or visited the town they had come from, but they were not well known enough to stop him from following Battle.

"CoolAZ, I think you should stay here with everyone else. I'm not risking your wellbeing here. If you want to you can come through later, but I'm going now. If it is a trap Battle is going to need help, or at least company in the torture cell; and I'm rather good at keeping company."
Skunk then turns to Mephitis, "Alright boy, let's go."

The relatively young god hastily dives through the portal hearing cries of caution from some behind him, but they fall on deaf ears.

On the other side he turns his attention to Battle who had already reached the tea party where the tea party princess -who must have been Fei- sat.
Not wasting too much time, Skunk followed suit with Meph close at his back.

---

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*As the weary Aztec travellers reach the settlement, Itotia slows down and surveys the scene cautiously. The villagers have already spotted them, but to her eyes the various ninjas scattered around look little different from Kaiser's monks. Nagual, however, hops forwards cheerfully and waves.*

Hello! You'd be the followers of BattleF08? Relax, Itotia, I recognise one of them from earlier.

*There is a brief pause amongst the conversing villagers, before Noboru steps forward to greet the two. Mizumi follows, not speaking yet.* Ah, greetings. Yes, my name is Noboru and I am a follower of the god you speak of, pleased to meet you. Based on your clothing, I believe you are a follower of the wise Iacobus, correct? What brings you to this village? Can I be of help to you?

Really, you worked that out just from my clothes? Wow! I've gotta say, most people just think I'm a wandering idiot or something, but-

And for obvious reasons. I'm Itotia Xipil, general of the forces of the White, and this is Nagual, who heads the Order of the Jaguar - I assure you that he is more competent than he likes to pretend. As for why we're here... well, the full story is quite long, and involves a few military secrets, but the main concern is Fei. It looks like there's more than one tribe represented here - if there's a war meeting or council of some sort going on, we'd like to be involved.

Well it there was a meeting going on, but Fei's message shouted from the sky seems to have interrupted that. My god took off already, and I guess others are about to do the same. The meeting was basically just sharing information and confirming the resolve of the gods to stand against Fei though. They didn't really get to the planning phase of things. From what I heard, some more enemy groups are being uncovered by Fei to strengthen his side and the deity Amaunator the Revealer has regiven life to some gigantic Tree of Life.

I can't follow to the meeting with Fei... who's in charge while they're away?

Hmmm. Well, if all gods do depart, I guess the authority of this village would lie with MJLover's general Kinfu. I could help you find her if you want. There may be some gods still that haven't departed yet you could try speaking with however.

If you could, thank you. I'm sorry if we're being more pushy than diplomatic, but matters are quite urgent.

I think we should speak to you as well, if you'd be willing to join us. *As he speaks, Nagual sidles up to Noboru, with a conspiratorial wink.* You represent BattleF08's followers, right? Even if you don't want to boast about it.

Well, I'm not sure I'd use the word represent, but I am quite knowledgeable when it comes to my religion and people. I could at the very least attempt to speak for most of them.

He's just being modest. Truth is, he probably tries more to be informed and diplomatic than any of us, even if Kaori wouldn't admit to that. Feel free to talk to him as representative of the others and as primary authority in absence of our god. Talking to Jimmy wouldn't be as helpful.

Ah... thank you, both. *Itotia seems a bit unsure of herself now - she is clearly unused to dealing with people less strictly regimented than an army. That a position of authority might simply be by general agreement is almost entirely alien to her.* In that case, I'll explain to you too, since it might change how we should act. Please understand, first, that what I'm about to tell you is of vital importance to the safety of my entire people. If this information gets out...

We can trust them. BattleF08 does, and the Oracle trusts him.

Of course, I'm sorry. The truth is, our tribe is especially vulnerable right now. As you probably know, we were forced to relocate to the Boards after the war against Ceron. It was meant to be temporary, but now the Oracle - Iacobus - is gone.

Gone, you say? That could certainly be troubling if it is not in your god's nature. Has he been gone so long it is cause for such alarm already?

Sorry, sorry, I'm still having to force myself to give up the details - he was captured. He recently came to us after a thousand year exile, and banished a tyrant called Nomiki who had enslaved us. We thought that was the end of the matter, until he strode back into our city this morning with several of his men holding the Oracle captive.

When he entered the town he obviously expected us to just surrender at once, and when the people actually started fighting back, it looked like he'd had to exhaust his strength just overpowering the Oracle. He could open a portal to flee and start fires to cover his retreat, but they were nothing... if Liberalis had been closer we might have stopped him there and then.

But regardless of that, he's obviously dangerous enough to capture the Oracle. And turning up just now, as Fei makes his move... I find it hard to believe that it's a coincidence.

---

Battle! It brings great joy to my heart to see you. Could I tempt you with a biscuit?

 

*He offered a small plate, on top of which was an assortment of neatly arranged pastries and cakes.*

 

As an Emperor, I have access to some simply exquisite pastry chefs. It is one of the few trappings of power I confess to all too readily indulge in. It is my hope that my people can forgive this weakness.

 

No? A pity, they are quite delightful. 

 

*He returned the play to his desk, looking slightly crestfallen. He had taken to emphasising his age and looked in all ways an innocent old man, with an expression of being almost perpetually bewildered at the fact he was still alive. With sudden surprise and delight, he looked at Skunk.*

 

afternoon. It is my understanding that I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting you? Welcome to the boards. I am Fei. I also have an abundance of titles and honorifics you may employ if you so wish, but it is all a little excessive and I do not insist upon their use. Do make yourself comfortable. Tea? Biscuit?

 

[I’d appreciate it if all attending would arrive at this point, unless there’s a in character reason to be late. I’d rather not have to do the speech again, is all. ]

 

Battle looks very much more keenly upon pies. He had an exemplary device, you know: a machine that could make all flavours and varieties of the dish. I saw it once, when I was sheltered briefly in their long destroyed home. One wonders how many people died whilst he made a glutton of himself and with no more thought a chew he abandoned them to their fate. 

 

How many people the Kaiser was free to hunt down and massacre because he was left unmolested in the Thread whilst the Gods frolicked and tinkered in their safety of their dome. You see they only opposed the Kaiser when he threatened them. Otherwise he was to be tolerated, to be left in peace. 

 

Look at them, the sometimes enemy of . He is a champion that in the midst of the advance of darkness, *He pointed to the sky* finds time to host get-togethers *He cast a disdainful eye at the vortex both Skunk and Battle had emerged from*. 

 

So ceasingly has he combated all wrongs! 

 

Even now, when he thinks me a tyrant, he has done nothing to stop me. He can never die, but even that does not give him courage! He could attack again and again, fall again and again, and then rise and strike again and again. In the end my armies would be exhausted, depleted, dead. There is no obstacle he and his ilk cannot conquer except there own lethargy. 

 

They tolerated Kaiser when he did not threaten them. They worked with Ceron when he did not wage war on them. And now they do nothing about me, so long as their prayer power generating followers and resources are undisturbed.

 

They think me unfeeling because I can kill and not feel remorse. They do not know what experience I had to endure before the most benign and beautiful of emotions had died within me. For unlike them I fought with everything I had. I gave the fight against it every moment of my life I had, every strand of intelligence I had, every skill I had and I gave it more yet. I gave it a beloved wife. I gave it an infant son whose face I never saw. They have never sacrificed anything. They have never lost anything. They never did anything that did not serve their purpose. 

 

They care for their followers. So do I. But they do not care for the followers of others. But I do. And I shall save them. 

 

Amend your ways. Seek redemption for all those you never saved. For all those that died whilst you did nothing. Come with me to a greater battle. Help me end the suffering of man. Help me bring about an eternal peace.  

 

*His grandfatherly manner, which had evaporated as the passion of the anger and resentment had built, instantly returned when he stopped speaking. He reached for a biscuit, taking a moment to study his choices, before taking a bite out of the smallest.*

 

These really are rather . Are you sure you won't have one? 

---

The Original Crazy Reactionary

"Quite sure. You don't by any chance happen to have any red apples lying around though, do you?

Now, I do not believe that killing army after army is a good move; even if it is to save a few lives. Do not get me wrong, sacrificing a few to save many is acceptable, but what you were talking about there is killing many and saving what is left; not something the good gods are accustomed to.

But you are in luck, I am no good god. I act as they do, have morals as they do, and I treat other beings as they do - with a small exception: I have no trouble destroying forces of evil to what ever extent is necessary. Which -from what I've heard- includes you."

---

[Lionhead Pub] [Good Read] [Photobucket]

If you so callously embrace the logic of the few for many then you must surely agree that killing many and saving what is left would be far superior to killing many and saving no one. The Gods are not accumstomed to saving what is left because they have never saved anyone. For all the servants of the Kaiser that have died by their hand, countless soldiers merely doing their duty, they brought my people no closer to the freedom that I have brought. Their meaningless victories, destroying machinery and rescuing captives, rendered each of those death meaningless. Robbed their death of its rightful and deserved purpose. For everyone I have killed, it has been for a greater , a greater that has been achieved!

Do you see your folly? I proposed a method by which they may achieve something lasting, something permanent, and you balk at it? Does the triumph of righteousness frighten you so?

Hearsay, as such reliable and damning evidence, should surely be all that is required to convince you to take so momentous an action as attempting to destroy me. Whilst your motivations are your own, I would hope they would be based on firmer foundations than rumour. I assure you, I am a noble man, seeking to bring harmony and an end to the burden of supernatural trials so injustly placed upon the human race. Now you have heard differently. Perhaps you will listen less to your prejudices?

*He reached into an inner pocket and extracted a seed, which he cast onto the ground with an idle throw. He extended a glowing hand to the side, and in the glow of its green radiance, a blade of green sprouted from the earth. It weaved itself, growing and thickening until gone was the green and instead was a sapling that burst into pink blossom. For a few seconds it was in full flower and beautiful, before the flowers fell off ensemble, their petals dancing in the light breeze. As the leaves turned bronze, so the flowers became riped red cherries.*

I apologise, in the battle of orchards it was cherries, not apples, that conquered my heart. They are sweeter by far. It is my fondest hope that they will suffice?

Perhaps those who knew me in past times are curious as to my sudden interest in horticulture. The answer is rather disappointingly plain. I spent my hundreds of years in perpetual torture in a cottage waiting for your return. I felt I required a hobby, to pass the time.

 

---

The Original Crazy Reactionary

A human performing divine Miracles? That certainly seems related to Fei's recent gaining of divine abilities! Perhaps they have allied and Fei has helped him gain this power to take Iacobus out of the fight early, to gain advantage in the coming holy war. Are there any clues how he obtained this power? He might have stolen a Creed from a god. Hopefully not yours. You mentioned Liberalis is alive though, so if my understanding of these things is correct, that is probably not the case.

Well, he's had the years since he was banished... although it might seem like weeks to you, with how time flows here. I couldn't begin to say what he might have done during that time. The alliance with Fei would make sense though - he hated all idea of gods, said they were just myths or tricks. He'd love the idea of a mortal gaining a god's powers, it agrees with everything he believes.

Right. Seems like we have a problem on our hands. As gods are immortal, I doubt your god's life is at stake, but he will have to be rescued, if he does not succeed at freeing himself before his presence becomes a necessity of course. If will not make the mistake of underestimating the ability of a god with Iacobus' experience and skill.

Indicated by the exhaustion of power your runaway dictator displayed, I would say Iacobus is still superior when it comes to the number of followers he possesses, and probably most gods here would prove more than a match for him, now that they are warned of the presence of this threat. You have done great service to your god and possibly his allies, and I thank you. I will make sure we will relay your message to any that can help your people and deity in this time of need.

Thank you. Though we don't even know where Nomiki is holding him for now, and as far as I'm concerned the safety of the Oracle isn't my job. If the priests want to fret about him, let them. My concern is, if Fei does know about this, then he might see it as an opportunity to attack my people. I came hoping to combine intelligence and forces, so that we might stand a chance.

I know that it may seem selfish coming here asking you to help defend us, but we'll do exactly the same for you if Fei strikes at you first. Besides, if any of us falls, it weakens us all. Fei would be happy to pick us off one by one.

Very well then. For now, the only advice I can give you regarding your missing deity is to keep your faith. As long as that remains, your god will return to you sooner or later. As for the issue of defence, if wish I could be of more help to you. My military knowledge will be insufficient to aid you in protecting an entire metropolis of people. Especially my experience is lacking in this area. I'll get you in touch with MJLover's military commander Kinfu now. I cannot commit my comrades to the defence of your city without going against specific orders of my god, but she has the necessary experience to aid you in establishing a proper defence of your city.

*With no other way to help, Noboru seeks out Kinfu to be of further assistance to Iacobus' people. Fortunately the other ninja scouting the village quickly guide them in the right direction*
-----------

*Skunk looked upon the gathered forces of Fei, the man-god before him, as he walked over to the cherry bush. They certainly were a varied bunch. Especially the Sohei, with their perfectly muscular build and empty eyesockets, were an intimidating sight. They did not show any emotions and made not the slightest of unnecesary movements. He plucked one cherry and turned to Fei before putting the sweet cherry into his mouth*

I just struggle to take the word of a man who has blackened the skies and draws power from the suffering of others, that is all.

I had a lot more to post, but it will have to wait. I am just to tired to complete BattleF08's ranting. I have a lot of it already, but I'm just too tired now. I'll post it late saturday or early sunday.

---

Heyhey, apologies for the double post. This one adds on to the original post. I'm deeply sorry for the length of this speech, unfortunately it would be uncharacteristic for BattleF08 not to speech at this point.

*As Fei was taking a relaxing sip of his tea, BattleF08 has reached the point where he was ready to enter the conversation. Had FelttaB not torn away all the negative elements from his soul when he separated from BattleF08, the god might would perhaps have been enraged enough to have attacked Fei the very moment he insulted everything he was and has ever done or created. Still, the words had cut deep into BattleF08's soul. As Skunk and Fei had talked more, the anger had turned to irritation however. Fei was being a politician, which what not something BattleF08 was terribly fond of. The former-mortal was interpreting everything to his own advantage, basing his words only on enough interesting details to obscure seeing the whole situation and larger truths*

You hypocritical MORON!
*The words were enough to cause Fei to choke on his sip of tea a little. He had been called many things in his long life, but moron was never one of them. Not like this anyway, for this was meant more as a statement than as true insult, and lacked the mocking undertones normally associated with the use of this word. Though, anger and ranting were of course to be expected from a god like BattleF08. The following rant would probably play out much as Master Fei, the master strategist, had predicted. Though perhaps the god could surprise the wizened master once more...*

You sit here, surrounded by your minions, holding up the facade of living like the decrepit old man you so greedily tossed away when you became a deity. You think just because you look old and wise you get to pass judgment and act like you know everything?! I am older than you are and I have been fighting Kaiser since you were acting like a fool in his service. I have been fighting since long before you were born. You hardly know who I am!

Here you sit, accusing me of doing little more than creating a machine to stuff my own face with pie during my ages here. While claiming that loving pastries is the one sin you have you hope your people will forgive you for, no less!
*Defending the creation of the Pie Machine probably doesn't add to the credibility or persuasional power of the rant of the lunar god, but he isn't one to let a project dear to his heart be used as an insult*
Yes, the Pie Machine made pies which I enjoyed. What it was however was a remnant of a time where I considered improving the lives of my people with the aid of technology. I stepped away from that frame of mind to instead help create a realm in which my intervention is unneeded however. Instead it became a tool of diplomacy and appeasement. Part of an atmosphere of cooperation and unity for the united gods. In addition, it provided the secret access point into my lab and was, when needed the most indestructible defence of the collective temple of the gods, the Thread. Rewarding and punishing, defending and kicking butt, it was my ultimate creation and more importantly, a symbol of our unity.

You accuse me of not doing enough? Do you think we had nothing to do at all when the gods were done trying to destroy us? Do you forget we were constantly on the defensive? Indeed I could have rushed out alone and died countless times, taking out as many enemies as I could, but that would mean I could not protect, rebuild and prepare. The gods had mighty armies, and I created tools to defeat these. There was also rebuilding to do. Do you know what would have happened in those days if we would have been getting ourselves killed with the Thread dome lying in ruins? In that time, temples were vital for influence. Without our collective temple, we would have lost our influence and been unable to return to this world upon defeat.

You accuse us of holding get-togethers? How could you possibly presume I was not gathering allies, forces and information together to stop an overwhelming opponent such as yourself? You, of all people, should know that preparation and using patience isn't the same as doing nothing. You've been "inactive" since the Ceron war as much as we have been. You're also mistaken if you think I have never lost or had to sacrifice everything. Gods don't have wives, and you have my sympathy for losing yours, but don't think us immune to powerful emotions like such loss.

I have possibly lost my life in this unique realm more than any other god, but I have fought against every mayor power. Yes, I have returned by the will of my people every time, but that does not mean there is nothing in the universe I would not be willing to lay down my entire existence for. And indeed, of the many foes I have defeated, the gods have most often returned to fight another day. Even if this realm lets gods feel the sting of death, it will not enable their permanent demise. We can usually do little more than defeat them and expose their flaws to their people, in hopes they will realise their power and weaken or banish their gods, in which you have succeeded.

You speak both of killing loads mortals and of saving them. What exactly are you blaming us for? Not saving Kaiser's people, or not killing them? You know that a god is sustained as long as believers exist. Should we have destroyed you, Fei? Should we have killed you, your family and everyone you ever knew, to rid the universe of Kaiser? Should we have committed his sins in order to prevent them? This sort of reasoning seems to be what you are going by. I believe it is not for a god to decide the fate of mortals by determining who lives and dies however.

I am not perfect of course. I may not agree with you, but I do have flaws. I'm trying to create a world that does need my intervention. The fact that I am here is a testament to the incompletion of this project, as my people still seem to desire my existence in this world. I cannot accomplish everything I would like to in this world. People suffer and die on my watch, and I am unable to prevent it. Right now, right behind you, there are former people, their minds and bodies in unimaginable agony. I can offer them nothing. I cannot restore them and give them back the lives and time they lost. Even granting them a final peace would prove difficult. Those people you leave in this state willingly, you who can command or save them.

But perhaps I am speaking too much? You did seem to suggest that if I want to defeat the gods in the world I should be throwing myself upon your forces again and again. Perhaps I should do the rude thing and send a bolt of electricity through your face? I have a different suggestion first, if I may be so bold. Let me tell you first about the nature of this realm. Not having arrived here divinely through usual ways, you have not found this place by discovering a strange calling while floating around as an immaterial sphere of light with a symbol within it. Knowledge of a realm of power unique in the known universe. This realm is special, a Hub Realm where gods walk as mortals, accessible by gods of all walks of life who have reached a certain level of maturity. What you do not know is this; the reason behind all the conflicts in this realm.

Were one united influence spread over this realm its properties would be accessible by the power or powers responsible for this influence. If one god or one side were to hold sway over this world, its properties would work both ways. One could not only access this place from every land and world, but one could access every world and land from this place. Every land would be accessible and this side could spread itself throughout every realm in existence. That's the theory anyway. The situation right now is unique. SirJoe, Solar and Kaiser, the gods of old, are defeated and gone. With the side united and being the majority, perhaps you are correct. Perhaps the time has come in which merely preventing the control of of this realm is no longer the task of the gods. Perhaps the time of the conflict over this world is nearly over. Perhaps we stand victorious. Only one man can say so.

Fei. Your past life has brought you to this point. A mortal has overthrown a god and is reaching for the keys to the universe. The question remains what he stand upon when he makes his final grab for them. The shoulders of his allies, or a mountain of corpses? Will the wind in his hairs be the cheers of the world or the shrieking of tortured souls? I'm asking you to join us Fei. Join the gods and reclaim the humanity you try to save within yourself as well. Let us help each other free the world of its burdens and our own, by carrying them together. Destroy only that which cannot find redemption, and shelter those that can. Rid yourself of the powers of darkness and rely on the powers of allies. Help me purify the remaining shreds of darkness from this realm and free those in torture. Let us end this together.

*BattleF08 respectfully stretches his hand out towards Fei*
Master Fei, the Jade Emperor. I humbly ask of you. Will you join us?

---

*A group of monks near the scene is tensely listening to the discussions. Though without doubt, their emperor will succeed in the end, the life of a monk is never easy. In fact, official statistics say that whenever a deity is nearby of any given alignment, their life expectancy rates drop by at least twenty years. One can understand their discomfort with the presence of gods, especially those with murderous sounding names, such as "Battle."*

*There's one who doesn't seem to be too worried however. Standing behind them and watching over their shoulders, he calmly keeps an eye on the surroundings. There's nothing unusual about him. He's in standard serpent monk equipment, wearing a simple robe over his armour. His naginata lies loosely in his right hand, the blade uselessly leaning on the ground. The only difference is that he doesn't appear to be quite as agitated as the rest of the monks.*

*The monk's sharp ears hear a sound behind him; the naginata is raised from the ground by a few centimeters. A swift glance in the right direction merely shows a bird, trying to crack the shell of a snail on the rocks. Softly, the blade lands on the rocks again, as the monk turns back to the scene before him, dispassionately listening to the conversation.*

*Another soft sound, as if a rock was falling and hitting the ground. The blade stops leaning on the floor, and the monk looks in the direction where the sound cames from. He sees nothing. Behind his helmet, an eyebrow is raised as he slowly scans the surroundings. Most likely, the monk is just imagining things. Slowly turning back to the meeting, the monk appears to relax again. However, even as Battle offers his hand to Fei, the blade remains a few centimeters above the ground, ready to be put into use just those few milliseconds quicker than might it might normally be the case...*

---

Skunk shifted uneasily as Battle spoke. This was the first time he'd seen the lunar god upset and it was quite a display. He snapped off another cherry and scoffed it down, not breaking his focus from Battle's speech for a moment.

Mephitis had been silently watching from behind both the gods as they spoke with Fei. He'd sprawled his eyes over all the other strange, fascinating beings around the area. Most did not look too pleasant, the rest looked indifferent. He looked up at the sky where the rays of light were piercing through the clouds. What a beautiful sight, especially during such dark times. And there, only metres away, sat the 'man' responsible for it all.

Just throwing in some filler. You know, since Kaiser is taking is precious time posting! Also just reminding everyone that Meph is just chillin' behind the gods as they jabber.

---

[Lionhead Pub] [Good Read] [Photobucket]

*His eyes narrowed with true curiosity and consideration. The man that monitored the surrounding world, always searching for opportunity or attack, allowed his senses to concentrate on one single object for the most fleeting of moments. For a brief instance he seemed to truly focus on Battle. He took a sip of tea as Battle outstretched his hand. Then sat back silently, his fingers pensive.*

 

*He mouthed something, inaudible, then reached into an inner pocket and extracted a small mahogany box with the symbol of a golden chrysanthemum embedded onto the centre of its lid. He held it with a certain longing, a certain consideration before swiftly returning it to his pocket. He stood up. The gap in the darkness closed. The light of the sun vanished, replaced by his ever brightening aura. He bathed the surroundings in a divine gold that drew flowers and foliage towards it. Then, when he shone with his greatest, blinding, radiance, he placed his hands behind his back and when he spoke it was with his greatest aristocratic flair and with a most distinct undertone of determination.*

 

My star shines bright! Singularly a constellation. Alone, it guides all in the darkness. It shall never fall from Heaven. Its meteoric iron shall neither be your sword nor shield!

 

I ask you to help me and you reply by demanding my submission? The arrogance! Never! I will never bend my knee to you.  I will not stand alongside a God so weak he slaughtered his own people upon the whims of Ceron. I will not call brother a God so manifestly supercilious that he thinks nothing of crowning a mountain with the doom of the world. I will…

 

*His voice softened and an empty, hollow smile replaced his stern and regal manner. It was the change from a speech to an insult.* 

 

I will forgive you your inequities. I sense that your intentions are noble. Actions are malleable, twisted in the confluence of a hundred wills. Truly, we can only be judged on what we intended for that is the product of our reason and morality, undistorted by the pragmatism fortune and opportunity force us to adopt. It is a pity, I think that our intentions are similar and if your actions had been less beset by failure perhaps I never would have had the need to spill the blood I did to rectify the damage brought about by your incompetence.   

 

*Before Battle could reply, a Koios bot, whose crystal frame also provided some light, shuffled forwards to the Emperor’s side.*

 

God-Fei, we have completed our work. As this conversation is going nowhere, you will stop engaging in frivolous talking and arguing over who has bigger morals or better principles or shinier trophies and move on with the operation. We do have a plan and unless my systems are malfunctioning, it does not involve elevenses. 

 

My apologies. By all means, begin. 

 

Interlinking...

 

*There was an explosion of light behind Fei and his entourage. In the distance, a thousand lamps ignited in the windows of the abandoned fortress. It walls crackled with renewed energy, both metaphorically and literally. Without warning, lightning bolts streamed from the tallest tower, striking the surrounding air. It struck  in the pattern of a sphere, forming a bubble around the fortress. The Kaiser’s long unused lightning shield had been reactivated. In various isolated places, the ancient, and much in need of repair, structure exploded and collapsed under the strain it was now being put too. But altogether the building held, once again alive. Once again under the control of the minions of .* 

 

Inferior lifeforms, direct those gelatinous orbs embedded in your calcium craniums upon the reactivation of TITAN power. Our brethren have restored the temple of our beloved creator. The corpse’s filthy, inferior taint has been purged. Within we have reassembled the Oblinihilation weapon of the divine life form Sir Joe and enhanced it with TITAN knowledge. In the ice caves to the south we have repaired the Doomsday Device of SirJoe. The combined cataclysm these two devices will be capable of will strip this world of the weak. Unnatural selection is upon you. This world will evolve because you and all humanity shall die. TITANs supreme! Kaiser supreme! 

 

I see you are intractably opposed to my pleas and it pains me greatly. But I have done all that I can to make you see reason, to bring peace to this fractured world. You force my hand and once again I must adopt the methods of the villain to achieve the aims of the hero. It is a burden I have always had to bear.

 

Disrupt vortexes at our facilities! Prepare the weapons for firing! Full power to reactors! Begin countdown. Begin the second phase of the primary operation: stabilise the portal to the prison dimension! 

 

It is a pity your comrades did not come. There are times when even the company of fools has it advantages. 

 

Defensive postures! Do not permit the divine life forms to interfere with our plans! 

 

I had had also hoped to speak with Iacobus once more. I loved him like I loved my own brother. Fittingly I killed him, with great relish. No matter. I have to lie to someone of some importance, which shall be sufficient conversation for today, I think.

 

bye Battle, bye young one. May you find the peace of Fei an eternal one. 

 

*The Emperor smiled at them once more, as all eyes and electromagnetic sensors turned to the Gods, awaiting their move.*

---

The Original Crazy Reactionary

Amaunator, CoolAz and MJLover had been left to ponder the obvious trap Fei had laid out for them all. Amaunator for his part felt annoyed with Battle rushing into things, and at the other hand, was slightly shamed for letting him go in alone. By now, the streak of light had faded - which did Amaunator some pleasure. Nobody toys with the light of the sun. If present, Amaunator would have made apparent that it was not in Fei's power to abuse sunlight. If. If. If...

If anything, the extinguishing of the beam of sunlight made it plain something had happened, and by that something Amaunator immediately pictured the image of a trap falling shut on a desperate mouse. The instinct to rush after Battle into the fray was there, for sure, but that would be madness. Rather, Amaunator turned to see Noboru and the delegation of Aztecs. He had from afar overheard their discussion. "So, MJ, it seems that Iacobus is down for the count on this one. Shall we await Battle or rush after him while we still can? It seems to me that the time has come to fight together again."

"Kinfu, can you hold the fort for me? You heard Battle: keep the guards on high alert and beware of Kremin's brother." A perking-up MJLover directs his speech at his general who - with cold regard - nods, after which she obviously has little to do in the self-maintaining village of MJLover's. "I think we're just about ready. Let's see what Fei has in store for all of us, shall we? Oh, and Kremin, you're coming with us." The creature swallowed surreptitiously, but approached the gods to dive in together with them.

"Let's go." A spark lit up in the gods' eyes as they rushed for the portal Battle had left them. A short trip through nothingness later brought them to Battle's side, as they saw the ranks of Koios bots, Sedatsu, Sohei and human monks closing in on them. "For the old days, eh, Battle?" Amaunator smiled, though unarmed. The odds were improving. Four gods and a shade-ling against an entire army. Glorious carnage lay ahead.

---

Bathing in eternal sunlight...

{Sig Made By SenileSkunk!}

*BattleF08 was truly glad to see his allies again, but they seemed about ready to plunge into battle, which BattleF08 could not allow. Not because Fei didn't need to be destroyed. Not because he didn't want to fight. No, because it was exactly what Fei wanted to accomplish. There were plots within plots within plots going on here, and trying to get the gods to be the aggressors was but the first of many layers of Fei. Every word Fei had spoken had been carefully decided upon. Rather than frankly giving out his honest opinions, Fei had actually been manipulating. Giving subconscious instructions. He has silently been yelling to BattleF08 to attack him*

*It all added up. The blatant insulting. The absence of the overpowering Slayer. The provoking to throw himself upon Fei's forces till nothing remained, as befitting an immortal. Likening preparation to face foes the same as slothful apathy, and finally, to ignite the barrel of gunpowder, presenting the threat of global destruction. Every bone in BattleF08's body was screaming to bring judgment upon the being before him, whose heart was a monstrous abomination controlled by the mind of a ruthless dictator. He wanted to fight. He loved to fight. He was made to fight. He HAD to fight. Right now!*

*But he didn't. It went against his nature, but it wasn't the wisest thing to do right now. Sure the gods had some chance here. Out in the open they could make full use of their area of effect miracles. Meteors, Lava, even a Death miracle would be devastating here, with all these forces gathered so close together. There were mortals in the group however. On the enemy side they were, but he could not risk their lives, or he would validate Fei as a hero to his people and damage his oath not to take mortal life. BattleF08's aura flared up in brightness, matching that of Fei in intensity. He acted if he didn't notice however and actually seemed to calm down while it happened, letting his anger and lust for battle slide off of him as he turned to his allies*

Welcome to the tea party, Ammy, MJ. I'm glad to see you both. Fei here was just explaining how everyone in the universe not falling to their knees in front of him has to die, because they weren't effective enough at making his life better. I've tried to see if he would stand together with us so we could all have a happy ending, but it seems that won't happen unless he gets to stand on our shoulders and tell us where to go. Added to that his artificial life-form just claimed that they have rebuilt the Doomsday Devices of the past and as you can see, they stand ready for our attack. If we take them on now, we have an advantage and a seemingly decent chance to win. Too bad for us we're not going to take it.

I'm not so into the whole "the end justifies every means" as Fei here is and I am certainly not in a habit of slaying people gathered in a meeting of diplomacy. No, I vote Fei, and especially his gathered followers, leave here unharmed. If it is Fei's will we may have to face them in battle at a later time, but it shall not be by our will. I will not be trapped into throwing the first stone. What then should be our actions? Going after the Doomsday Devices sounds like a plan. We can forsake our needed preparations, divide ourselves and rush like headless chickens into the cataclysmic situations presented to us. It certainly sounds like the me thing to do.

Only this time we would uncover there is nothing threatening the world at our target locations. I apologise for making the explanation so lengthy, but it is necessary for everyone to understand my conclusions. First off, Fei, did you really think that just because you had an artificial life-form bring this news that I would not expect it of falsehoods? I have built robots and AI's before, you know. Also, the TITANs' knowledge of the past might be greater than your own, but it is not bigger than mine, as I was present at all those events. The TITANs rebuilding weapons not invented by Kaiser would force them to acknowledge the superiority of a design other than Kaiser's, something I would guess would be difficult for their programming to acknowledge. Ignoring where the TITANs might even get the designs from after over 1000 years, it is the nature of these weapons that makes their recreation most unlikely by your hand.

The Oblinihilator of SirJoe was a stationary cannon aiming only in the direction of one stationary target, the Thread Dome. Even if the TITANs fixed its aiming issues, the only thing of interest to aim at is the Tree of Life, which you have seemingly already disabled for the time being. An unnecessary action if you could destroy it at any time. The Doomsday Device of JontheDark from the ice caves exploded, destroying the caves and machine, and the remaining core of it was later leached empty by what would become Ceron. Recreation of the device would require a new power crystal, fueled by the stored souls and essence of countless mortals and greater beings. As you are no necromancer and Sohei are probably a preferred choice when empowering your side at the cost of enemy lives, I doubt you have made this step, also because it could lead to a repeat of the Ceron situation. Furthermore, like I explained, the existence of this realm is of great benefit to any would-be dictator of the universe, so I doubt you would destroy this world.

*Fei had finished his cup of tea, and had stood quietly listening with his hands reaching behind him and his back slightly arched, like he was an old professor looking down upon a student presenting a clearly flawed theory, but was being humored by being allowed to proceed. He slowly raised his index finger of his right hand a little to draw the attention and right to speak back to himself again*
I do apologise for interrupting, but you should know that-No I shouldn't and I never will! I have heard enough of your performance for today. I am mainly speaking for the benefit of my allies right now. Our conversation ended when you threatened to destroy my allies and the world.
Divine fleshbag! By the grace of the supreme emperor Kaiser-Allow me to push your Escape button as well! Though as a scientist I find your design and development of great interest, I have no interest in discussing anything with an propaganda jukebox machine. My allies and me are leaving. We will leave your forces gathered for this meet and greet untouched, but allow us to make a final statement through actions, rather than words.

My allies, let us bring back the Sun!
*A smile appeared on Amaunator's face. The unnatural denying of Sunlight upon the land had been a direct insult from Fei to the Sungod. If BattleF08 had a plan to undo this unnatural darkness, he would be eager to accomplish it. Fei too, subtly raised an eyebrow. If the cover of shadows in the sky could indeed be undone be the gods, it'd be quite a feat*
My friends, I ask of you. When the sun is darkened during an eclipse, what part of it still reminds us of its presence?
The corona.
Indeed, and here she is. *BattleF08 unsheathed his sword, the Holy Corona, its aura still blazing bright in the darkness*
MJLover, since you are the god with the most strength among us, please take hold of my sword.
*MJLover accepted he sword and clutched his hand around the handle. The light embracing his hand brought forth a familiar, almost nostalgic sensation to his mind. Not surprising, as the holy light of the old God's collective base is what still empowers the blade's enchantment*
Thank you, but what do I use it for?
When I say so, you need to throw it into the air as high as you can. We'll use miracles to blast it the rest of the way there. We have to get it above the dark clouds made by the Shades Fei controls. Skunk, how well are you with throwing miracles?
I have done my best to master precise control of the Wind Miracle. It's my favorite one.
Excellent. I'll trust the last step to you then. I'll do the first miracle, as my throwing accuracy is most trained on short distances. Ammy, I presume you know what to do?
No problem. My aim shall be true.
Alright then, MJ, whenever you're ready!

*With all his might, MJLover throws BattleF08's sword up as high in the air as he can. It is far from high enough to reach the clouds of course, but as it's ascend slows down, it is impacted by a wind miracle thrown by BattleF08. The weapon is thrown up to an even greater height, riding the blast of wind. When it is about to consider falling down again a fireball explodes against it, launched by Amaunator. The explosion launches it upwards once again, spinning wildly. The last part is up to Skunk, who charges his miracle as the gods place themselves between him and Fei, in case he and his forces try anything. The weapon is now up so high it would be hard to spot if you didn't know where it was, despite its great glow*

*Even Kremin looks on interested, wondering if the cooperation of the gods can indeed break through the power of one that controls the skies. Fei has the possibility to retreat his Shades at this point, to save them from possible destruction, but that would still mean a small victory for the gods, as they would have forced his hand against his will. Skunk wasn't exaggerating his skill with the Wind Miracle. He hits the sword perfectly, and it speeds through the layer of dark cloud, piercing through the shades that it's made up off that were unfortunate enough to be in that exact spot. It isn't till the sword reaches above the darkness that the real attack begins however*

*In sunlight, the sword's Solar Flash ability is once again usable. Though the holy blast of light does little more than temporarily blind normal creatures, such is not the case for the unfortunate incorporeal creatures of darkness. The destruction tears through the darkened sky in all directions, tearing open the darkness, like fire through the middle of a newspaper. The energies travel further in some places than others, creating deep tears. The gods escape under the cover of the blinding light and the last thing Fei sees of them, when his sight fully returns, is the Corona, crashing down near the Vortex of the gods and being sucked through to the other side right before it closes. As an added effect to BattleF08's plan, besides the sun, the edges of a large portal forming in the sky behind the clouds can be seen. The portal to the realm of the Fallen Angels that Fei was using the darkness to hide. The gods catch their breath in MJLover's village, as BattleF08 retrieves his sword and the villagers begin loud cheering at the return of sunlight in the realm*

Well, as fun as that was, we have preparations to make. Our next encounter with Fei will no doubt be more hostile. We have to be prepared. MJLover, I am sure you still have things to take care of here. Amaunator, now would be a good time to arm yourself. I wouldn't want to face Fei unarmed. I myself will enter my home realm to give my ninjas their second part of their training. Once that is complete they will actually be a usable force in this war. We should do our best to strengthen ourselves as best we can, while we still have some time. Skunk, it has been great standing beside you across from an enemy. You seem well prepared for a new god. Certainly better than I was at your age. I can honestly say I have no further advice to give you for the time being. If you can't think of anything to do, you could always train your creature or check upon Iacobus' people. His absence is disturbing, as is Fei's minion The Slayer being unaccounted for. What you do is up to you of course. For now, I'd say we've all worked well together to make our first stand in this conflict. Let's hope we can keep this momentum...

*The gap in the darkness covers a large portion of the sky, but by far the largest part of Fei's shades remained unharmed. He may even be able to just cover the whole sky again, but perhaps if he did the sun's light could not be blocked for 100%, leaving at least an outline of hope. Regardless, for today the gods had shown that together they could still break through the power of Fei...*

---

*When the Gods took their leave they left a stunned silence behind them. The usually loquacious TITANs tilted their heads in analysis of events. Monks made eye contact with each other, trying to understand what had happened and how it meant the Emperor had won. The Shades screeching cackles had become subdued as the death of so many of their brethren reverberated throughout them all, and they were presented with the interesting scenario of having to feed on themselves. Even the Sohei momentarily stumbled, but only because the will that held them in an iron grip itself waned: The Emperor had been truly an old man for a second, as the shock of so many extensions of his power had perished in the light of Battle’s plan. He looked about for support, for explanations, none of which were forthcoming.*

So they’ve learned not to be so gullible. Impressive.

*He staggered forward to lean on the table, his temple throbbing and grimacing as if making some great effort. It went unnoticed by everyone though. In the bright sun his golden armour was painfully blinding to look upon to human eyes. The Sohei didn’t have eyes. And the TITANs had never really grasped such human things. They were also preoccupied with being furious.*

Analysing. Formulating new strategy. We still have the location of their settlement. The Gods will be present but that merely means we need reinforce The Shogun’s regiment. All units redeploy. Prepare for inter-dimensional shift to –

- You are being impetuous. No.

*Came Fei’s voice from over his back. It sounded strained.*

We cannot tolerate their existence. All the blaspheming humans must be eradicated. Activating genocidal protocols.

No!

Engaging sardonic subroutines. Your opinion is worthless, Feity. Why don't you lean over your desk some more. Find wisdom in the wood's grain. You go about practicing botany, we will handle the more pressing issues. The Kaiser would have it so and therefore it will be done.

You will obey the Emperor!

*Fei’s accompanying Exarch, commander of the guarding monks, piped up in response to this affront to their Emperor’s dignity.*

Oh look, it can speak. Shut up, Exarch Fleshy. Adjusting diplomatic parameters. Our alliance is terminated, the Gods and all their servants will be exterminated for the glory of the Kaiser. All units prepare for an inter-dimensional shift, co-ordinates -

We will not permit you to disobey the Emperor! Kai-Zar!

Pathetic! We annihilated all the monks once before, we shall not struggle to do so again! Lock weapons!

*There was the sinister clicking sound made as every surrounding TITAN did a stylish flick of its wrist and pointed its arm at the nearest Monk, who responded by unsheathing their katanas.*

You can’t defeat us we have the Sohei!

Improving upon humanity is wasted effort. You are irreparably flawed. Kill them! Kill them!

- If you will permit reason to be heard you will realise that there is no need for such an assault. All we sort to achieve has been achieved, albeit not through anticipated events.

*Like an expert in brinkmanship, Fei turned around to calm events. With some effort he managed to stand bolt upright and place his hands behind his back. He took a moment to take in the warmth of the sun, as did the plants that grew in great abundance around his feet.*

Elaborate.

We need not tip our hand that MJLover has betrayed his people a second time. Not yet. We sought to distract them; they have denied us this. Yet they have also denied to interfere: we can continue as planned.

One would have thought, perhaps even hoped, that after I berated them for so often doing nothing they might have tried a different approach. I suppose no one pays attention to the opinions of the old.

Interlinking…. We agree with your assessment, we are especially jubilant about the part about not paying attention to you and intend to adopt this as our policy with all expediency. We shall follow your plan even if it does lack sufficient slaughter, or revenge.

There will be time for revenge. After all, they have allowed themselves to love and we were students of a master that knew how to have his revenge from such things.

Contact Meiji, inform him of a change of plan. He will conduct a rear-guard in case the Gods should manage to conquer their indolence. The portal and the Thread serve no further purpose. When we reach our destination close the first and destroy the second.

Objection! The Thread –

Is a relic of an eventful past brimming with long buried secrets. I do not intend for some history of it, unremembered by failing memory, to be used against me at a critical moment. As Battle himself said, he knows it better than either of us.

But the Kaiser –

Has not inhabited it for a thousand years. Forgive me, but it would appear you are being sentimental.

Never. Evacuate troops!

Excellent. Then with the light of the Sun to show us in ways of righteousness and paths of justice, it is time to begin our noble work. Lest there is further deviation from my expectations, Xial shall assist us in our great struggle.

August Personage of Jade, Emperor Li, Xial is -

My apologies, I meant the Dreaming Child. I remain disoriented from their attack.

*He sighed and closed his eyes. He had a look that if he was a lesser man, he be screaming. Unsubtle as his race was, the nearby Koios appeared to pick up on this and said something that had all the implication it referenced an earlier lively debate.*

We have already voiced our concerns about this –

And they have been duly noted. Forgive me, but it is not your area of expertise.

We learn quickly. We have already learned that you are obstinate. You have our projections. Prometheus concurs.

And you will have what you want long before they come to be so. What does it matter to you? Consider it a guarantee of my faith.

Human irrationality makes nothing guaranteed, but the probabilities are in your favour, we will have Fei-th. This unit shall enact the rendezvous with the infant.

Legates Cao and Yuan, your sections will accompany him. No Sohei.

Lord Fuyushimo, I apologise for the lack of activity. It seems I have been bested, it has been known to happen. I appear to have overestimated their tendency to interfere, but no matter. Yet it would be a pity if your journey here had been wasted, so perhaps you would care to join me and see first hand what I have planned? It is not far at all to the slopes of Mount Doom.

*Fittingly, there was probably unrelated lightning strikes and lava eruptions at the mention of "Doom", but no one could really be sure.*

---

The Original Crazy Reactionary

Sure enough, the thrill from throwing that one fireball took all the spunk out of Amaunator. That walk to Mount Doom would be a damn long one. "Well, Battle, that surely was a blast... I don't think I quite follow everything Fei told you two, but I'm guessing from your grin that things worked out quite well for us. And then to think I was finally gearing myself to some ole' combat again. At least it's a thing we didn't take the bait. I told you it was a trap, but the nature of it was diametrically opposed to anything I was expecting. I figured the trap would involve us definitely having to fight should we not be convinced by his speechcraft." Relievement and celebration hung in the air between the gods.

"And you're right that we should split up and gather forces, strength and weapons for the coming conflict. Fei may curse at our revealing whatever portal it is that he has opened above the Boards, but he won't allow his efforts to go unrewarded. We must act quickly to strike at the TITANs. We should have made sure they were eradicated a thousand years ago; now we're left regretting that oversight. The reason I say we have to attack them is because of their position, their power and their hindrance. Their position is not easily protected, I wager, they've grown beyond their previous abilities, and they have managed to disrupt my link with the Tree of Life by super-saturating the input. There's no harm for nature or the Tree, but it does mean that I cannot deploy an army I'm breeding on the boughs of the Tree. I may have brought it to Battle's attention in passing, but it's imperative that you all know: a horde of flying humanoids, which I have named wisichi, protect the Tree. They will answer to my beckonings and maybe to those of my allies too, but I cannot be certain. They are linked to the Tree much the same way I was, or more empathically; it's possible they are in distinct disarray now. That means the Tree is effectively defenseless. For that purpose alone we must destroy whatever power source is triggering the surge into the Tree of Life and I'm confident that we'll find that power source in the TITAN headquarters."

A pleading look has come over Amaunator - which is not much of a miracle considering he is generally catching up with how tired he is from the last days' pursuit for stability. Disregarding whatever else his allies had in store for their brief off-time, he hoped they would soon rally to his cause and disable the brunt of Fei's army. Action was imperative.

"I hope I can count on all of you to muster whatever forces you can bring to bear as soon as possible and bring them to this village so we can march upon the TITANs. I will be back as soon as my weapons are forged, which hopefully won't take long. I wish you all expedient fortunes. Unless anyone of you still has anything to say, I will take my leave."

Amaunator holds back to look all of the other gods in the eyes - his gaze passing Kremin by -, urging them to speak if they want to. If not, Amaunator will be off to the East, in search for sunlight and a smokey mountaintop.

---

Bathing in eternal sunlight...

{Sig Made By SenileSkunk!}

MJLover may have overdone the throw. He twists his right wrist around a few times and stretches out his arm, a slight ache shoots through it. It was nothing serious, his arm just wasn't ready for maximum exertion. Give it a few minutes, it'll all be fine. He looks up at Amaunator, and switches his attention back and forth between him and Battle.
"I cannot send my villagers back into a war. They've suffered more than enough. There aren't enough villagers anymore. Barely scratching a thousand and less than half of those are men ready to go into battle. You have me and my sword, and the shade who has no other choice," MJLover gives him a cold gaze, then returns his attention to the gods. "But none of my villagers will fight unless the situation really calls for it."

He's not going to let this turn into a discussion, and quickly jumps from that topic to the one Battle mentioned. "And yes, I have a few things to attend to. I think Kremin needs something to eat, and he'd be no going into any kind of conflict with a chance of combat on an empty stomach. I suppose it'll take less time than your tasks, so summon me when you are ready." He bows courteously, and to make sure he's the first one ready he decides to leave the scene, with Kremin staggering behind.

They do not return to the village, though. Instead, MJLover steers into the forest, and releases Kremin from his grip. He promised not to let his sight wander off the shade, but he believed that if he was to hunt and hunt quickly, it would be best to allow him to do so on his own. Kremin showed off the same kind of manners MJLover had done earlier to the gods, and bowed in an equal fashion. The shade dissappeared in a poof of smoke, and MJ could see the footsteps lead into the forest, and out of his sight. All he was going to do now, was wait for Kremin to return, and a part of his conscience told him he'd be waiting in vain.

---