Crash Course in War Gods pt 2

--- Last Time ---

Child: There is a saying that I have heard from a mortal, once. That for Evil to win, all it takes is for good men to do nothing. I am known as a protector of warriors, my love. If I were to have declined, then what kind of protector could I truly have called myself in the end? No, despite it all, if I was to be true to myself and my ideals, I needed to do this. Though, it will always be my most solemn wish that the war soon ends. There is so much more that our world has to offer to see it end at their hands.

Boy:.... I…. I understand…

Boy [inner thoughts]: This world is more important, after all. I just wish I could see it with you… Our better world...

--- Main Camp, Unknown Location ---

*As the Child and Boy continue to speak about some of the gods they had met during the meeting, the Child leads them towards the food tent at a sedate pace, so that they might continue their conversation*

Boy: *Sigh* so Master… that about the Yoruba god Master Oura? Something for as interesting as he was he kind of stayed to himself for the most part… i know you said you don't know much about him but…

Child: Master Ogoun? Ah, yes, I know more of him than him actually directly, so I can give you a little info. Master Ogoun is actually one of the older lifeforms. Well, not counting Mother, of course, but he is actually considered one of the first primordial Orisha to come to earth. He was once thought to have been the first king of life. Though….I’d be careful to show him respect. He once killed those who didn’t….uh...well, then himself after. Still, rumour has it he just vanished instead of dying, and would come back to help those who call for him. Well, as you can guess, he didn’t exactly ‘vanish’ but I’d guess that more meant he achieved some form of divinity. As you know, those born with godly blood can only achieve divinity through their own actions, whereas you then have gods like me who just…..*They make an odd hand motion* Poof?

Boy: ‘Poof’? Ahc, the all mighty war god [Child’s Name] has resorted to using sound effects…. Pft!

Child: Pft, yes, well, I’m not primarily a war god. Wasn’t what my existence was needed for. And I wasn’t exactly aware of what I did when I came into existence. Well, other than shock a few unsuspecting gods who really weren’t expecting little old me to pop up. So...yes. Poof.

Boy: Begs the question, were you born a baby or just a little kid? ‘Coz if you were a baby, I need to see the portraits ‘that woman’ must have made. I only remember you as a snarky young kid - or young poof? *chuckle*

Child: *Laughing, before making a motion of short height* Oh, I remember enough once I came into existence. I was about this height. According to Mother, I was quite cute. Then I told Zeus he was an idiot. I think I probably sent half the gods into hysterics. Pretty much got bumped to favourite little brat after that. Heh, I really was a brat. No wonder my furry companions are such troublemakers.

Boy: I guess Kuro is the anomaly. He's always well behaved - well, he does get kind of clingy when I'm not around too long, but appart from that, he's a saint. But the rest of them... well, they’re just like playful kids, I guess.

*They both give adoring smiles before entering their destination*

Child: Yes, well, Kuro was made for you. If I made something that would just get on your nerves, it would defeat the object of keeping him around, wouldn’t you say? *He chuckles slightly* Well, anyway, less about me. I should continue what I was saying. So, Ogoun, He’s a god of war and metals, and his followers are usually hunters, blacksmiths and drivers in the Yoruba religion. Oh, and I don’t know if you also noticed his behaviour might have a little similarities to your father as well. He’s not the same type of being as him, but Ogoun is known for certain canine behaviours.

*The boy shivers slightly thinking of the events prior  as they both take their seats*

Boy: W-wait, then does that mean h-he was sizing me up! He was giving off a predatory glare the whole time! *Mumble* Was one of the reasons I was shaking at first….

Child: Well, he probably was. I wouldn’t take it personally. He’s just an aggressive, straight forwards kind of guy. He probably just wanted to be certain you could face the danger. If you had been cowering, he probably wouldn’t have been as receptive. But you handled the pressure well, so he likely accepted you into out….ah…’pack’ here.   

Boy: And I thought the gods back home were scary…. I’m gonna die here, aren't I?

Child: Of course not. You know I wouldn’t let you die if I could stop it. Like I said, you got their attention. You’re one of us now, so you’re fine.

Boy: Yeah… right…. Oh…um, yeah! What about Morrigan? The three goddesses? There was only one today. Are they like Sumiyoshi Sanjin is? So which one was with us today?

Child: Well, yes, they are indeed three sisters. Badb, Macha and Nemain. Badb takes the form of a crow, so unless she was on someone’s shoulder or in the rafters, she wasn’t there. She’s known to cause fear and confusion in soldiers. Good against the enemy, not so much in a strategy meeting when you want everyone to pay attention and keep their heads, you know? But she may very well have just been suppressing her power. She can foresee certain deaths on the battlefield, after all.

Macha is associated with war, horses and sovereignty, so she doesn’t have quite the same issues as her sister. So I think it was her who was there today. Nemain has a similar issue as Badb - she is the embodiment of the chaos and frenzy of war, again, not precisely the best for clear thinking.

Boy: Those four are scary enough - I don’t think I wanna hear about the rest. Not yet anyway. I feel like a lamb in a den of wolves in comparison to you all.

Child: You shouldn’t *placing their hands on his shoulder* Remember who’s chosen you are. In war, no matter what happens, everyone meets the same fate. You are the ally of that fate. And in that sense, it is not you that should fear them. You are….stronger than one. An ultimate equalizer. You have every right to be here, and have their respect. *They gently stroke his cheek.* Just as you have mine.

Boy: I… um, Mast-

Drunken Soldier: AHHH! No fair! No flirting with our fairy, Master!!!

Drunken Soldier 2: Yeah, we all have to behave around the little lady, so, so do you! Hahaha! *Hick*  

Child: Ah, but have you never heard the saying of ‘Flirting with death’? *He laughs as he pulls away, waving a finger.* And I’ll have you know I’m behaving perfectly. We’re just playing a game right now. I’m winning so far, so I think that means I’m owed a drink, right? *He gives the Boy a look to play along for now*

Boy: Y-yes master! I’ll go get it now!!!

*Quickly fleeing from the slight crowd, the boy runs to the bartender to get a bottle of sacred wine.*

Drunken Soldier 1: So! I know she saved our buts the other day but who izakly  is Zee master?

Drunken Soldier 2: *Lightly nudging the child's arm* Don't tell me she's your girlfriend! Say it ain't so! Not our fairy! *Posing dramatically*

Drunken Soldier 1: Hahahaha.

Child: I’m surprised that you don’t recognise the child of Mother. They’ve been in training with Master T, so I’ve not seen them in a while. They also came with a new strategy. With their help, we’ll hopefully have this war over soon.

Drunken Soldier 2: Not in the sacred temple much, so I don't know ‘er

Drunken Soldier 1: Wait, wasn't that the girl you had a sparing match with?! Wait, she took out the enemy last time??? She couldn't even beat you last time! What changed?

Drunken Soldier 3: I kind of want to see a rematch between ya.

Drunken Soldier 4: Me too - I wasn't there for it last time, but I kinda wanna see it now.

Child: Mm…. *Looks in the direction that the Boy had gone* I’d like to see that, too. In fact…. *They smile* I’ll be very happy if they can beat me. Not that I would let them win, but….If they can surpass me, then, maybe….*They close their eyes and smile. *Yes, I think I would very much like to see just how strong they are now.

*After a time, the boy comes back with a wine bottle, and the meals for both the Child and themselves*

Boy: Oh… um… I thought I should get the food while I was up there. So what were you gentlemen talking about?

Drunken Soldier 1: Oh, nothin’… just about you fighting Master.

Boy: Huh!... T-that was a long time ago!!!

Child: They’re rather interested to see how we would fair against each other now. Perhaps when your training is fully complete, we should have a rematch. I think it will be an interesting match, to say the least. I think it’s possible you’ll even defeat me this time, too.

Boy: And what, pray tell, would be the point? I won’t fight you unless I have a good reason… plus, I still feel bad about last time… so…

Drunken Soldier: Aww, come on, I’ll buy you a pretty dress if you do.

Drunken Soldier: I’ll buy you a necklace. Come on, it would be epic to see!!!

Boy: ...

Child: I believe that if they don’t want to fight for no reason, they don’t need to. If they fight, it’ll be because they want to, not due to bribes. Of course, you could always try to explain to Mother what you’re trying…

Boy: That's not entirely fuls. It's just  you gentlemen don't have anything i desire… but master on the other hand? Well if master could make my reward worth while then…

Child: We’ll see. As much as I would enjoy the challenge, the war comes first, I suppose. Like I said, if all goes well, we’ll be home soon enough. I’ll just see our battle as something to look forwards to when it’s over.

Boy: Aww, need a little practice in before you face me, Master? *chuckle* Or you can’t think of anything good to give me? *Smile mockingly*

Child: Oh, it’s not that. It’s just that what I wish to offer is something I couldn’t until the war is over. But I know that it is something you may like very much.

*The Boy sets the food and wine down before slowly and deliberately walking over to the Child’s side, sitting on their lap and speaking in a tongue only known to the gods*

Boy: Is that so? May I have a hint, my love?

Child: *Leaning their chin on the back of their hand, a smirk on their lips* Hm….I think I’ll keep it my little secret for now. Just know that you’ll like it. Until then, my lips are sealed.

Boy: Meany. You’re such a tease *Chuckle*

Drunken Soldier 2: Ay… No fair! Speaking in a language we don’t understand!!! Plus, they’re flirting again!!!

Child: *Offering a smirk to the Soldier* Awww, I’m sorry, did you want to join in on the blushing game, too? I think you’ve already lost, considering that drunk blush you have. *flicks the man on the nose*

Drunken Soldier 2: Yeah, yeah!

Drunken Soldier 1: Hahaha! Well, I guess we’ll take our leave. Drown our sorrows in booze ‘til we fall asleep ‘n’ all that. Hahaha!

Drunken Soldier 3: Hahaha! Well, I’m off, I got the morning patrol. So, I bid Fair Lady and Master adieu. Hahahaha

*With that, the pair were left alone again*

Boy: Fair Lady, huh? I’m not even dolled up right now? I think the booze must have gotten to them already. Bunch of lightweights. Hahaha!

*The boy, slowly, with practiced hands poured for the child, still speaking the tongue of the gods*

Child: Well, I didn’t want to ruin the fun. They never realised I never actually said your gender. Maybe I’m just too used to having fun with it, myself? I’m sure they’ll feel a bit foolish by morning, once the hangover’s gone.

Boy: ...Well, maybe it’s better if they think I’m a woman… That woman can change herself. Theoretically, I should be able to do the same…  then maybe one day I can have your offspring.

Child: Maybe. We, after all, do know what one of my skills is. *They chuckle* Well, I think we may need to be a bit more careful here, though. We were lucky that they were only drunks. *Sighing* I should take my own advice, it appears. Still, no harm done. Well, shall we eat? We have a lot to do tomorrow after all.

Boy: … Yeah… You’re right.

*The boy removes himself from the child’s lap, sitting on the opposite side of the table*

Boy: My apologies, Master, I’ll be careful from now on.

Child: That wasn’t a criticism on you, love. *Gives a smile* It’s more I hadn’t realised my own control was so lax. I guess that I missed you more than I thought. And considering how much I missed you….well, it’s telling. I’m sure we’ll get the hang of it sooner or later. Still, chin up. I have a feeling that things will go well. And I wasn’t joking about the thing I had in mind for you, either. But….for now, I want to keep it sealed. I certainly don’t want to jinx it, but know I do look forwards to the day I can tell you.

Boy: … Yeah….

*Silently, the boy begins to eat his meal*

Boy [inner thought]: W-what is this…? I can’t taste anything… and ...No, no, don't think about it! Just keep yourself in check. Keep your emotions in check!!!

Child: Ah…[Boy’s name]? Are you….perhaps, still nervous? I’m sorry, I hadn’t meant to make you more concerned. If you’d like, I could give you a hint? Or we could speak of something else, if it will take your mind off the nerves.

Boy: N-no, I’m fine. I’m… fine. I’ll be ok?

Child: If you’re sure...but, Love, no matter what, if there’s ever a problem, know I’ll always listen, ok? I believe in you, though, so you believe in you, too.

Boy: …. Yeah…. I know. It's just, I felt strange for the moment. I'm fine now… but, may I ask you something? It's important.

Child: Anything. What would you like to know?

Boy: If… if my light was snuffed out from this world… would you… would you wait for me…? or would you forget me…? I had a dream, once, when we were apart… I saw your sad eyes being left behind, and I’d rather you forget me if I go first. Don’t mourn me, ok? That’s all I ask of you, just forget me.

Child: ….You….You know I….couldn’t do that. I could never forget you. You’re my light, after all. I would do all in my power to make sure yours was never snuffed from this world….. *They take a shaky breath, eyes closed* But….at the same time, I’m not a child. I….I know there will always be a possibility that….one of us might not….Make it. *He takes another shaky breath* Still, could I ask the same of you? If I were to die first, would you move on? If you can do that for me in turn, then I’ll do my best to keep looking forwards for you. But never ask me to forget you. I may move on, but you have helped to shape me into who I am today. I could never truly forget about you. Even if we were to live another life.

Boy: I would never move on… because I would join you right after. You know what my father's kind are, right…? We can't live nor move on without our life partners - mates, if you will. Both our hearts and our sanity wouldn't be able to take the pain.

Child: *Reaching over to take his hand* Well, perhaps we should do our very best not to die then. I’d rather neither of us ever have to feel that pain.

*Lacing their fingers with the Child’s*

Boy: ... Yeah…. You’re right… Just wait for me on the other side and I’ll do the same. You should be reborn pretty quickly because of how needed you are. I, on the other hand... well, I might take a bit longer. But I’ll do my best to find you again. So, promise you’ll do the same… right?

Child: I’ll do my best. And if I can’t find you, I’ll wait for you, so that, one day, you can find me. Would you look for me?

Boy: Of course! I wouldn't be complete without you. *Tears up slightly* Not ever. Cliche as it sounds, it the truth. I-I, my eyes could never look to anyone else but you. My heart hurts when we’re apart, and, and….

Child: Then, let us do our best, that we will never be torn in such a way. I still have something I want to give to you when it’s all over, after all. *Leaning their head against the boy’s, they search his eyes, a small smile on their face* And, for fulfil that, I can’t die. And neither can you. Not ever.

Boy: Yes! My love, I-

Venus: Well, it looks like your bond is as strong as ever.

Ares: Indeed.

Boy: Aunty…? Uncle? What are you doing here.

Venus: Well, I felt a disturbance in the air and I wanted to check it out, but old Ares wouldn’t let me go without company.

Child: Hmph, Always with the interruptions. Well, you know what they say. Everything is fair in love and war, I suppose *Their expression switches to something a bit more serious* What kind of disturbance are we talking about, here? Something serious? If it was just us, then Ares wouldn’t have been so insistent...

* She begins to look around at the now empty tent, but then still lowers her voice*

Venus: … Well…

[END]

Crash Course in War Gods pt 1

--- Main Base, Unknown Location ---

*As the cockerel cries fades into the distance and the snowy owl’s call rings out, the meeting between the gods draws to a close and each party beginning to say their farewells.  The fading light of a lantern leaves the meeting space along with its master.*

Child: Well, thankfully, those plans really did go over well. I think that and your conduct has gone a long way to make a good impression.

Boy: …. Sir! …

Boy [inner thoughts]: I wanna die! I think I should leave! I almost made a complete fool of myself back there in front of high ranking gods as well!  *Blush* And that even happened, too... oh nooooo...

*Giving a long side look to their companion, the Child picks up a little of their inner panic*

Child: Seriously, you don’t need to be too tense. I promise you, I have been working alongside those people since I was sent on this mission. Even if they don’t show it outright, they all had a good impression of you. You treated them with respect, you spoke clearly and explained the aspects of the plan succinctly. You did your duty well. I think the only other way you could make a better impression is by showing your fighting prowess to them directly, but that will come in time.  

Boy: T-tense? whose tense!?!? Eh! Ah….

*In a hushed tone, the boy pulls his hood over himself, trying to hide his reddened cheeks, muttering in a barely audible voice*

Boy: I'm more embarrassed than anything… What you said happened actually happened…. Oh god! I wanna die!!! And you didn't help much!!! You kept grinning, even though you had your fan covering your face, I could feel you grinning. You sadist! You didn't help me at all.

*The boy pouts, pulling his head further down*

Child: If I had helped, it would have made people question what you were saying more. By standing up and doing it yourself, it would make it seem you were here on your own merit, rather than being a spokesperson for your ‘Master’.

--- Flashback ---

Child: *Raising a brow* Are you absolutely sure you want to use the ‘Master’ thing right now? People will certainly talk tomorrow if you can’t say the word without turning red. As adorable as that would be, it will certainly prevent us from rooming together if the others think we’re taking part in questionable play.

--- End Flashback ---

H: ...Ah….Question, but….why are you so red? *placing a hand on the boy’s forehead* You don’t appear to have a fever. It came on far too fast for that

Boy: Ep! Ehhh, I, um, well. I remembered something embarrassing I had done previously. D-don’t worry, I’m not ill. Just... um….

Boy [inner thoughts]: Not exactly a lie, but…

Child: Nothing you need to worry about, H. I’ll make sure that it’s nothing more serious though. After all, it is the Master’s duty to take care of their vassel

H: Well, if you’re sure….If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask, though! I don’t mind helping out. For now though, I suppose I do have a few duties to attend to, so I’ll be sure to see you both soon.

*With that, H quickly headed off towards some of the other tents*

Boy: Bully! Pervert! Tease! Meany head…! Stupid Master! Not gonna talk to you for a while! HUMF!

Child: Oh, but I didn’t do anything. It’s not my fault that you just happen to have an….interesting mental connection to the word. *Chuckling, they lightly pat the Boy on the shoulder* Teasing aside, here is a little raining for you. You met some of the gods today. I’m interested in your opinions of them, with your current training in mind.

Boy: What do you mean by that, Master? Like their names ‘n’ stuff, or them in particular?

Child: Just your general opinions on them. Though what you know about them in general works. Don’t worry, I’m not asking for all of them. How about…..say…..four of them that stood out the most to you?

Boy: ...Ummm… Well, I guess Cinnamon ro- I mean, Master Horis is nice. His looks and his work mode don't add up, but he was pretty cool to watch in action. Master Ogoun was cool too - don't associate with the African gods much, so I'm interested in him and his fighting style. Oh ‘n then there Mistress Morrigan she...They were pretty cool, too, but it’s the first time I’ve seen them. They didn't talk much this time… kind of felt like they were testing me the way they were firing questions at me one after another haha of n lastly Master Sumiyoshi Sanjin well eh… in short when it was his turn to question me i thought i was going to die! He has such a strong aura!!!!

Child: That’s understandable. Sumiyoshi Sanjin is a god associated with sea warfare. Makes sense that he’s about as overpowering as a tidal wave at times. The Morrigan, well, they do seem to have some measure of foresight in battle, so it makes sense they would do their best to be sure that the battle plans could work. Who knows what they could have been ‘seeing’. But they seemed happy enough with them, so there must be a fairly good outcome. Or at least has the best outcome that they could hope for.

*The Child rubs their chin*

Child: Admittedly, I haven’t really spoken to many African gods, either. But you’re right. Perhaps we should both think to associate more. International cooperation, if nothing else. *Chuckling* As for Horus….Yes, he is certainly an interesting one. But as I thought, you and he could get on well. If everything goes as planned, he might be truly able to help with your own ambition for Mortal-immortal associations as well. Being incarnated as he is, he has more leeway than even myself where mortal interactions are concerned.

*Glancing over curiously, the Child cocks a brow*

Child: Did you know much about any of those four prior to today?

Boy: Admittedly not much, other than they work with you, master. All I know was that they were associated with either war or tactics why?

Child:  Would you like me to supplement what you know, then?

Boy: Yes please, master!!!

Child: Haha, alright. Who shall we start with?

Boy: Ummm, well, Master Sumiyoshi Sanjin, since he’s part of your pantheon. Then Master Horus, since he’s my friend.

Child: Fair enough. Let’s see….

*The child closes their eyes, arms crossed within their sleeves as they considered what they knew of the mentioned gods*

Child: So, Sumiyoshi Sanjin. That is actually a title rather than a name. It’s a title we refer to three gods by. Their names are Sokotsutsu no O no Mikoto, Nakatsutsu no O no Mikoto and Uwatsutsu no O no Mikoto. They, like me, are part of the Shinto Pantheon, and are all gods of sea and sailing. They were all born at the same time, along with Watatsumi during the time that Lord Izanagi came back from Yomi and purified himself. So they are actually decently old for gods. About the same age as my friend, Susanoo.The ‘tsutsu’ part of their names has a connection to the planets, and with the Orion constellation. So, with that in mind, they are also linked to Navigation. So, if you happen to be lost out at sea, they will help.

Boy: That’s so cool!!! Oh, but then, which one was with us today? Or did they fuse? Oh, and what about Horis?

Child: *laughing* Well, I’m sure they’d be glad to hear you say that. We had Sokotsutsu with us today. They made sure to go with various groups to help with, well, Navigation or the sea warfare. But one of them needed to attend to pass on the information to the others after all.

*They closed their eyes again*

Child: Now then, Horus….Similar to myself, Horus has several roles to his name, though he is of the Egyptian Pantheon, rather than that of Shinto. His roles are much more different than mine, however. Horus is known to be god of the kind, the sky, war, hunting and protection. It’s not surprising he is linked to the king - Horus incarnates into every Pharaoh of Egypt. That is why he’s not got an immortal body in the way that, say, we do. But for all his….Ah….’cinnamon-roll’ personality, Horus does actually have some rather interesting past. I don’t know if you noticed his eyes? How one is slightly different from the other? One of those eyes had to be created by Khonsu, the Moon God. His real one got torn out during a battle with the God Set. I’m not entirely sure if he can actually see out of the replacement eye, but it doesn’t appear to bother him. Still, if you ever see the eye symbol, it was originally linked to him due to this. It’s a symbol of protection these days, though some link the symbol to a few other gods as well - Horus doesn’t seem to mind. Ah! Probably best not to mention Set around Horus, though. The Eye issue is just the tip of that iceberg. There is a lot of bad blood there. But if you truly want to see just how cunning he is under that innocent persona, just see the kind of things Horus did during his conflicts with Set.

Boy: No! No, I won’t believe it! Not my cinnamon roll!!! *Poses dramatically* But, really, he sounds frightening at times. I’m just glad he’s my friend, ya know? I kind of just want to see him happy and smiley all the time and I don’t know why...ya know? ‘N I noticed, but I didn't want to mention anything, just incase it was a sensitive topic. But, now I know it is…

Child: Well, his eye itself isn’t a sensitive topic. More talking too much about Set, really. Since the ‘eye’ symbol is literally known as an ‘Eye of Horus’, I’m pretty sure he doesn’t mind others knowing of his eye. Still, you aren’t wrong on the ‘frightening’ thing. After all, if you’re associated with war, it’s rarely for peaceful reasons.

Boy: Hehe! I guess you’re right… but then, what about you? You’re really kind and you never seem to get angry. So…

*They both stop walking, the boy staring deeply in the Child's eyes, searching for an answer.*

Boy: You might be a hero… but you didn't have to say yes to this. Since I know how much this job kills you inside, Master…

*The Child sadly takes a breath, before letting it out again, opening their eyes once more*

Child: There is a saying that I have heard from a mortal, once. That for Evil to win, all it takes is for good men to do nothing. I am known as a protector of warriors, my love. If I were to have declined, then what kind of protector could I truly have called myself in the end? No, despite it all, if I was to be true to myself and my ideals, I needed to do this. Though, it will always be my most solemn wish that the war soon ends. There is so much more that our world has to offer to see it end at their hands.

Boy:.... I…. I understand…

Boy [inner thoughts]: This world is more important, after all. I just wish I could see it with you… Our better world...

[End]

Renegade Pt 1

--- Last Time ---

Agent C: I loath your presence. The man you have become… you’re not the leader - the man I looked up to. But, the most frustrating thing about all of this, is that I can still see that man when I look at you.

*C clenches his fists*

Agent C: And that’s the most frustrating part. Dumb ass, stop wearing that mask of yours and come back to the light already.

*He sighs*

Agent C: Pft. ‘I just wanna hit him sometimes, he's so thick headed now’... You were right. You're always right, N. I really wanna knock some sense into him.

--- Pandora Rendezvous Point ---

*As the piercing rays of sunlight stream through the open gap in the tent, Agent C strains to wake himself up.  Checking over the crystals that were keeping his comrade alive, he sighs, before heading out. Scanning his surroundings, he makes a beeline toward his target. C is disgusted with the man before him, but kicks him awake.

Agent C: Wake up, dog. The extraction team will be here soon.

*Lorenzo, who had been leaning up against a tree, opens a single eye, giving the man an unimpressed flat expression*

Lorenzo: Wow, rude. Looks as though your manners have gone downhill. As it is, if the extraction team is yet to be here, then we have no need to interact with each other. You obviously have better things to do with N - who is obviously alive still, or you’d have come at me with a god killing weapon rather than a kick - and so there truly is no need for you to ‘lower yourself to be in my presence’. If I make a fool of myself before your extractor team, it would hardly affect your standing.

Agent C: Huh. Oh, look at the bastard son of Zeus, running his mouth like always. It’s because of N I need your help, dog. When you earn my respect, I’ll give it. Besides, if you look over there, your excellence, you’ll see them. It’ll take about an hour for them to reach us. As far as they know, and as far as Pandora knows, you’ve been deep undercover. Faking your death to gain intell on Phoenix. That’s your cover. You wanna be persecuted? Then blow your cover. Otherwise, stick to that story. Now, if you could be oh so kind as to get your ass up and go check over N, then help me pack up.

*Snorting softly, Lorenzo did pull himself up either way, not because he had been demanded to, but rather only because the mention to help. Either way, he remained even more unimpressed with his once comrade. If C was supposed to be helping him change his mind about Pandora, he really was horribly failing. Personally, he couldn’t see himself sticking to any roles for long. He’d stay only long enough to see if these ‘changes’ really were what N had said, or if it was merely how things had been twisted for her benefit.*

Lorenzo: Perhaps you should use the word ‘please’. It gets a better response. And, funnily enough, that crosses over any form of bloodline. *He put his hands into his pockets* Perhaps rather than acting like a child with their toy taken from them, you might want to say why, precisely, you need my help for N? I thought you had it covered?

Agent C: Sorry, I couldn't hear you over the sounds of you checking over the person who's had your back since the beginning, and you packing up. Amusing, you of all people calling me a child. Pft! A dog calling me a child. Says the one with daddy issues.

Lorenzo: *A smirk crossing his face* Oh? That so? Isn’t that why you’re acting like this now? Weren’t you the one who used to call me ‘Daddy’? Looking at that, when my target has always been gods as a whole, and yours is completely focused on me? Who looks like the one with the ‘Daddy issues’?

*He snorts and shakes his head*

Lorenzo: That is besides the point. Are you going to tell me why you need me to help N, or are you going to just stand here arguing with the ‘dog’?

*C snatches Lorenzo's collar, eyes twitching, and his inner ‘self’ beginning to show. C growls, eyes bloodshot red.*

Agent C:  Don't test me, Lorenzo. Maybe you forgotten, but ‘WE’ used to be a family. We used to be close. WE used to be Brothers! But that all changed when you let them all die. All for your little get away. I wonder if N knew exactly what you did before you betrayed us…? I wonder, would she still be that willing to stand by your sorry ass? NOW go see her! It may be one of the last times you ever will…. At this rate, she’s going to die…. She almost did last night and not even my abilities can save her, not on my own. Humans are weak creatures, after all, not like you and I. So GO!

*Lorenzo’s eyes flash and he grabs hold of C’s front in a viciousness that he had not shown before, his limbs practically shaking. That he had been accused of leading those people to their death! That was not how it happened! It wasn’t! But…..in a way, it was his fault. His burden to bear. But he could never reveal the real; reason, and what finalized his decision to abandon Pandora.Instead, he just gave C a look of disgust and shoved him away, before heading towards the tent.

As he walked, he took a breath, and another, calming himself enough to put on his usual facade again*

Lorenzo: You still have yet to say how I’ll be able to help. Perhaps instead of ranting, you might want to reveal that so I can, Oh, I don’t know, help? As you said, N is human, and weaker of body. Time is ticking, C. Tick tock, tick tock.

Agent C: maybe if you shut that big mouth of your and use that so called brain you once were known for you might figure it out. Use that devin blood of your for good use, something you haven't don for the last six years already. You know as well as i, if  i do any more than i have what the risk could be.

*Closing his eyes, Lorenzo takes yet another breath.*

Lorenzo [Inner thoughts]: He doesn’t know what he’s talking about. N is more important. Telling him why he’s an idiot would only prove him right, after all. And one of us has to attempt to be above this

*He opened the tent again, ignoring C for now and instead approached N, eyes trailing over the set up. After all, he had left N in C’s care and moved out of the way to avoid being a distraction. As such, he wanted to be sure whatever he did, he didn’t disrupt something that might actually be keeping her life stable, since C had, still, not informed him of precisely what was the main thing he needed to focus his ‘divine blood’ on.*

*Looking over her, the warmth leaving the tent like it was leaving her, barely able to see the breath she drew, he thought of something...but he wavered. As strong as he was, the likelyhood of him succeeding weighed on his mind. Was the cost of him succeeding worth the toll on his physical and mental well being? She looked like a corpse lying there, rightfully so - her condition pointed to the end. If he didn't act she would surely die, but if he did, how long would she last for? No, that didn't matter. Those trivial things didn't matter right now*

*Taking a breath, he decided. Because he hadn’t made his orders clear enough was the reason for this. While it wasn’t directly his fault, Lorenzo was not above taking responsibility. As such, he stepped forwards and knelt at her side, reaching out his hands and began to focus on his aura, moving it, channeling it, changing it from its natural state into healing. He placed his hands a little above her stomach and began to channel that healing aura through her. He ignored any interference from outside, focusing entirely on N.*

*He was no full god, and certainly not one related to healing, so the task was harder than it would have been for any god of healing, or indeed, any god. However, he was a child of Zeus, and that meant where he lacked in true healing, he made up for in power, so you last longer as he fought for N’s body to listen to his direction and start to truly heal*

*Her body began to regain some of its warm the week presence began to grow slightly, enough for her eyes to flicker open, briefly, coughing violently and wheezing she a feeble not left her lips*

Agent N: L-Lorenzie?

Lorenzo: *Fighting to keep his voice soothing while still focusing on healing* Shhhh. Rest. Let me save you. If not for your sake, or for mine, then for C’s. He waits for you, so you must live.

*She breath a small sigh, her body aching, but with the little strength she had, she laced her fingers with his, before closing her eyes again, letting the soothing darkness of sleep take her.*

*Quickly, he looked over her once again, making sure she was merely asleep, not dying, twitching a little at the fact her hand was clenched over his. Still, he wasn’t about to stop until he was sure it was safe to. Eventually, exhausted, he slowly tapered off the power so the change would not be a shock to her system, and, finally, slumped by her side, using his free hand to wipe the sweat that had gathered at his brow, trying to ignore the faint trembles in his limbs, hoping only that he didn’t look as weak as he felt at that moment*

Agent C: So, you chose to save her, huh? I guess there's some hope for you yet. Here, they don't have much, but it's enough to add to what you’ve already done, and another for yourself - cant have to collapsing on me now, can we?

*Lorenzo wanted to snarl, or make a snide comment, but was too tired to be bothered to respond, other than a grunt and carefully taking the offered object, tired eyes fighting to focus on what, precisely, C had given to him. It was one of the crystals that had been used for healing N before. He sighed, but clasped it in his free hand, holding it to his chest as he allowed the energy to seep into him, like warmth from a heated stone into wind frozen skin. It certainly felt like warm energy was returning to his body. It wasn’t much, not enough to truly give him his energy back, but it stopped the world from graying and spinning around him, so that, at least, helped.*

Lorenzo: Thanks.

Agent C: Hm… No problem… Thanks…for saving her. Even if you chose to abandon us again….. *Sigh* I'm just glad she's alright - well, as alright as she can be. She was damn near inconsolable after she thought you have perished, almost went insane. But, after the stages of grief, she took on this mask, forcing smiles, but becoming bitter she blamed herself that ‘her’ decisions were the downfall of 226. But I guess that's was to be expected. Funny when I look at it. There are so many things I wanna say, so many questions I want answered. But not now, not in front of her. We’ve dug this hole so deep. So, tell me ‘Daddy’, how do you plan on getting out of it?

Lorenzo: *Closing his eyes* Maybe I have an idea, maybe I don’t. Maybe I’m just seeing what comes. I don’t yet, after all, have all the tools to either make a ladder or dig myself deeper into this pit.

Agent C: *Sigh* Fine. But, whatever you do, don't make her cry again. I’ve seen enough of her tears to last me a lifetime. And I don't care how you plan on achieving your end goal, just don't do it though Phoenix. You may not trust ‘us’, but you should be especially wary of them. That's all I’ll say for now. So rest up. I’ll be breaking down this tent soon. 20 minutes, to be exact. The extraction team are coming with healers more qualified than you and I, so she’ll be in better hands.

Lorenzo: Right….

*He already had a feeling he couldn’t use Phoenix. Especially if what N had hinted, what he had heard, were true. But he would need to go back at some point. There were good people there, good people who did believe as he did, who would feel betrayed by what Phoenix had done. But, he couldn’t think on that right now*

Lorenzo [Inner thoughts]: Before I do anything, I need to regain my strength, and do as I promised - to hear Pandora out. After that….well, we’ll see.

Lorenzo: I’ll keep an eye on N until it’s time.

Agent C: Sure… I’ll we’ll be moving out a precisely 600 hrs so until then.

[END]