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The next day…

*Life around the house returned to some sense of normalcy after the events of yesterday. It seemed Erikon was more lenient with allowing the residents to return to the weight they desired. As activity picked up over time, the courtyard became a complex mixture of vibrant colors, varied species and different builds. Some busied themselves with preparing the wide-ranging breakfast that became something of a staple around the house while others trained. Others still engaged in recreational activities or idle chatter.

For Erikon and Sirius, however, one event of last night in particular gave them some pause. It seemed they had a new enemy to prepare for. The young wolf was naturally shaken by it, as he had been by various encounters he’d had over the past few days. If the dragon was worried by it, he didn’t show it, not visibly at least. All that he knew was that this entity seemed vast and sprawling, and what they knew about their goals was limited. The Merc Group, or at least one of its members was squarely in their sights apparently. And rather shockingly enough, this wasn’t the first time either. Perhaps the drake knew they needed answers before acting. And at least he knew one Guild to start with.

For the father and son, their mornings started rather different. Said past events seemed to weigh upon Sirius as he got out of bed and gave himself and his remaining bulk a shake. He didn’t know what to think about… many things about the Fused World. But he did share a desire to help with Erik. And indeed, this would not be the first shapeless, malevolent global entity they’ve fought.

The dragon meanwhile woke up and stretched, wondering what the day would bring and what events would occur. When it came to answers, he knew one place to start their search… though for all he knew, he might be able to get more from the Creator, Destroyer, or even Chesh.*

The sounds of combat could be heard within the house's dojo. It seems like someone had decided to start the day with early combat training of some kind. The Creator's children were, for the most part, hanging around with the Atherusians. Blank was showing them several cheat codes to a pixel-art retro game, Tech Lyle is talking about paving the roads around the house to replace the dirt roads they have used, Shadow Lyle is busy selling overpriced weight loss potions, while Literature Gill has now set up a stand next to him selling fattening potions.
Chesh: About time you two got up.
The cheshire cat Shadow known as Chesh had a...Look to him this morning. He was fat. Not obese, but he had a rounded portly body. He also had a dull grey coloration of his fur, except for his waist where it was white with red hearts to give the appearance of boxers. In his hands is a mug full of some dark liquid, along with a rolled-up newspaper.
Chesh: You should've seen how angry Crey was last night, what with the thought of Those guys floating around in his head. *drinks from the mug* So I managed to convince him to come over and replace it with a different mood. Of course that slithery whippersnapper said it may be better to just pick fear, but I knew better!

*Erik looked Chesh over with curiosity, while Sirius adopted a defensive stance. Only briefly though, upon catching a glance from Erik*
Sirius: Sorry. It was a reflex. *rubs the back of his head*
Erik: Well, *nods to Chesh* Most signs point to something having happened. *He did agree, Chesh had a look to him. It seemed… strange to see him so dull.* Given the little bit of lore that he appeared to share last night, I can see why the thought of them would be upsetting.
Sirius: Well… that, and that ‘slithery whippersnapper’ seemed to experience a lot of pain and panic shortly after they were mentioned. To nearly bring about the end of the world upon the mention of a name…it’s concerning to say the least.
Erik: *nods* I think you and the Creator know we’re here to help regardless. I’m not minimizing the threat they pose, considering some world-spanning entities have a nasty habit of engaging in… oh how to put this delicately *he cast his glance outside, seeming to focus on Malkur and those he protected, among others in the courtyard* …activities they really shouldn’t in the course of broader and firmer control. *looks back to Chesh* Besides, they threatened Gill and I would wager they’re attempting to use Luke and the Guild to get to him. I can’t exactly let that slide, now can I?
Sirius: *grimaces slightly* I… know I’m going to regret asking this, but what mood did you convince the Creator to replace what he was feeling with?
Erik: *sweat drops* I… would like to believe Chesh just convinced him to come hang out with us. Replace the anger with some revelry and joy, as it were.

Chesh: Yer darn right I convinced him to come. Outta the way, young'uns! *stomps over to the two stalls*
Lit Gill: *blinks as he takes a step back*
Chesh: *proceeds to pour whatever was in his mug into one of the potion bottles on Lyle's stand*
Shadow Lyle: Hey! What did you- *a small explosion rattles the stand, and causes Lyle to fly backwards. Both stands soon collapse on themselves, with Lyle looking aghast* NO! MY MONEY!
Lit Gill: What money?
Shadow Lyle: I worked hard on those damn potions! *pounds at the ground*
Chesh: *changes his appearance, becoming thin and regaining his purple/pink stripes* Aaah! Nothing like a good cup of Despair to start your morning! I feel like singing! Dancing! *proceeds to do a spin, throwing the mug at Malkur's direction and smacking the newspaper into Merk's face* And playing some pranks!
Tech Lyle: I can make a pretty good stink bomb if ya want.

The Creator appears in the middle of the courtyard, currently using Chibi's body. He was pouting and had his arms crossed while Kiba had an arm around his shoulders. It looked like the Vassal had been eating a lot as his armor appeared bloated.
Kiba: I don't understand how you can still be upset after all the cookies and the prawn crackers and the iced tea.
Creator Chibi: I still want something with meat in it, though. *looks at Erik* Oh, Erik. Child. *nods to Sirius* Other people I barely remember. *glances at the other Atherusians* ...Black Erik. *nods to Merk* So, my pet cat wants to replace my anger with something else. Would you pick Song, Karaoke, Horror, or Improv?
Kiba: ...W-what?
Creator Chibi: Song, Karaoke, Horror, or Improv? I dunno what's hard to understand about the choices. Seems pretty clear to me.
Chesh: Wait! You got any more prawn crackers? *a bowl of prawn-flavored crackers pops into existence, which Chesh munches on*

Sirius: *glances at Erik as the chaos unfolds*...
Erik:... Well I was right though. *sweat drops*
Sirius: Mhm.
Erik: Look, all I'm saying is try not to view him as the villain all the time.
Sirius: Oh really?
Erik: Really.
Malkur: *huffs side stepping the mug* I'm not touching that.
Merk: Ow! *rubs his cheek* Seriously? That hurt.

*Most noticed the Creator's arrival straight away, nodding in greeting*
Sirius: *seems mildly offended, perhaps due to the more recent interactions they've had. Still, he said nothing, acknowledging the Creator had a lot on his mind.*
Erik: Well, something tells me a song might help matters. You seem like you need uplifting, and you have awesome entertainers.
Sirius: *clears his throat* And after that-
Erik: Indeed, why not go assemble your team, Sirius? We will have briefing on what we'll try to do today afterward.
Sirius:... Very well. *leaves to head around the courtyard.*
Merk: Oh? So have plans for today?
Erik: More or less. More bonding, a trip to the city, basic matters really. *He seemed somewhat vague on exactly what they'd be doing today in the Creator's presence.*

Creator Chibi: Hmm! What song though...
Kiba: Well, how abo-
Creator Chibi: I got it! They're in the dojo doing some training. Well training is done for today!
Tech Drake: Dad, don't interrupt them when it's still too early for nonsense.
The Creator doesn't listen as he summons his other Vassals to his side, namely Jun, Jureus, Wolfried, and Hiro.
Jun: Sir? We were in the middle of combat training.
Creator Chibi: And now it's over. I need your opinion on my song choice.
Wolfried: Are...you still upset? I thought you slept on it.
Creator Chibi: Yeah, I did. Not gonna cut it. *starts making a stage*
Hiro: Welp, I'm gonna grab breakfast. *wanders to the chefs*
Shadow Lyle: Are we not gonna talk about Chesh blowing up my stand!?
Lit Gill: *sets up a new stand using a bunch of imps holding onto each other* Weight gain potions! Get your weight gain potions!
Chesh: *proceeds to follow behind Sirius*

Erik: *sweat drops* Well, at the moment, something that brings you joy… or y’know, maybe a heroic ballad for morale boosting, if we’re going to be specific. *a small sigh escaped, though he was glad the Creator was seeking the opinion of his Vassals before proceeding… a part of him did agree with Tech Drake though.*
*The chefs meanwhile were happy to serve Hiro, and a few did seem sympathetic to Lyle’s plight.*
Dojin: Why? They were overpriced any-OW! *gets elbowed in both his sides by Mikal and Rufus* My ribs….
Rufus: If you desire help rebuilding, we can provide it. *eying Erik, seeming to deduce something was amiss.* We may have need for more combat potions before long…
Dojin: Eh?
*Meanwhile, Sirius gathering his team appeared to consist of speaking with some of his siblings and relatives and getting them to come back to their father for the day’s briefing. Gaius was more than ready, seeming to have a similar sense to the kangaroo Rufus regarding that something was going on. Korigen as well. Still, by the time they were headed off again, Sirius turned around to confront Chesh, rather annoyed.*
Sirius: Can I help you with something?

Creator Chibi: Now, this is a song from a past iteration of the Fused World. I destroyed it when it grew incredibly stale and boring, until Monohebi showed me how freeing it actually was. One of Chesh's friends even got permission to stick around with him after I remade everything. *turns to Erik* Let that piece of info be a hint for why I hate those self-proclaimed gods after my son.
*He continues building the stage as Hiro orders a breakfast buffet for himself. The other Vassals were setting up the backdrop and putting around props. Shadow Lyle quickly perks up at what Rufus said, quickly getting up and dusting himself off.*
Shadow Lyle: Oh! Well, since you need my expertise so much, I suppose I could possibly allow you to rebuild my stand for me...
Chesh: Oh no, I don't think you can. *grins widely* Especially the way you are now.

Erik: Errr... sure. *sweat drops. He wasn't sure how much of a hint was needed: the familial revelation last night was a pretty big one. Although... more context was certainly desired at the moment.*
*After being ordered, the breakfast buffet was served with all manner of meats, fluffy pastries and more.*
Rufus: *facepalms slightly* We'll set you up with the stand you had before. *shrugs* I imagine the alchemists could be asked if you need assistance restocking.
Sirius: *growls* Then we have little to discuss. *continues on his way*
Altrios: Ahem. *clears his throat in a loud manner just behind Chesh* Just so we're clear, what of all things could you need help with? You seem capable of doing... well, I'm debating if 'anything' is a fair descriptor or I should put 'just about' before that.

Shadow Lyle: Okay, fine. I ain't greedy. But juuust so you guys know, I wouldn't mind a big neon sign thrown in.
Hiro: *starts eating the breakfast buffet* Oooh, it's gonna start soon!
Chesh: *grins at Altrios* ...Making Crey smile. Although, the alternative is letting him be a punching bag to focus his aggression on, but then Erik will cause a fuss over that alternative. *walks back to the courtyard*

In almost no time at all, a large sign on top of the stage appears, written in stylized white letters on top of multi-colored splatters "Song of the Dead".
Kiba: Oh boy. *grabs a sausage to munch on*
Tech Drake: Oh yeah, remember that iteration?
Lit Gill: I'm trying to forget that one, actually.
Tech Lyle: Dunno what the big deal is, it's over and done with already.
Half Wil: At least the Despair twins were pretty happy in that one. Kept them quiet for years!

Rufus: *rolls his eyes, rounding up a few builders so they could make use of the house’s resources for the reconstruction of Lyle’s stand*
Farust:… Should we be concerned?
Fauxu: Nah, I’m sure it’s fine.
Altrios:… Well you’re not wrong. *seems to linger there for a moment* I think he’s more defensive and concerned about your methods than he is unwilling to help. *turns his head around, shrugging* Or is scaring the puppy into further distrust really the best idea? *heads back to the courtyard as well, not taking the same path as Chesh.*

Merk: *tilts his head* What do you think we’re in for today?
Erik: Oh… well, I think he said it best. *Was now a good time to say it might be happening again? Not because of boredom, but because of rage?*
Merk: Eh… I thought I heard you ask for something uplifting.
Erik: Well… the conclusion sounds good at least. *clears his throat* I’ll uh… try to explain matters further after the show.
Merk: I’ll hold you to that.


*It starts out with a screen opening, showing a human mentally dying in an office. It then transitions to that same human grinning on a rooftop. The music starts hard as four figures are on stage.*
Cheshire Cat: Dystopia, Song of the Dead!
Cheshire Creator: *checking himself out in a mirror* Dystopia, Song of the Dead!
Des: *is a winged snake looking at his phone* Dystopia, Song of the Dead.
Monohebi: *is dressed as a samurai wiping blood off his sword* Dystopia, Song of the Dead!

*The screen is now showing multiple scenes of a zombie apocalypse, with the undead running rampant in a city, with blood covering practically every surface. All the while, the figures on stage, except Des, begin dancing to the song.*

Cheshire Creator: Hey! Start now with a Ban-Bang! It's scary!
Monohebi: A metamorphosis of how we're living our lives daily!
Des: Cause when it was our time, when humankind had all thrived
Cheshire Cat: We ate and slept and danced and laughed. We always had a good time! Ha!

Cheshire Creator: This endless agony from the grinding pressure of society
Des: But I see the truth on the news. That's the norm, so we're all screwed.
Cheshire Cat: Forced into routine, but now I'm free! Let's go get breakfast burgers!
Monohebi: Life's turned around with the status quo down when all that's left is murder
all: Song of dead, Song of the Dead!

*The screen shifts to now show images of the human, Cheshire Crey, Des, and Monohebi now living their best lives during the zombie apocalypse, dining at fine restaurants, riding on motorcycles, stargazing, taking selfies with expensive accessories, parasailing, and even fighting zombies with various weapons.*

Cheshire Cat: I wanna dancing, dancing, rolling rolling, only one my life!
Monohebi: Everything that's alive will someday die. But there's more to life than being all alone
Des: *gets pulled by Crey to dance with them* D-d-d-dancing dancing, rolling, rolling, it won't last forever
Cheshire Creator: Nothing left to make it better. I'll live my life now and start over again!
Cheshire Cat: Every night, every time, having fun until the moment's right! For the day I choose to die!

*Monohebi starts using his sword hilt as a microphone, and the Creator shakes his butt to the audience. The cat on stage begins to freestyle dance, while Des just moves to the side with a giant blush*
all: One two three four! Dystopia, Song of the Dead. Dystopia, Song of the Dead. Dystopia, Song of the Dead! Dystopia, Song of the Dead. *The song ends as they all strike a pose. Except Des.*


Lit Gill: So cool!
Shadow Lyle: Weren't you complaining earlier?
Tech Drake: Oh, it's the shortened version.
Tech Elly: I don't think dad trusts them enough to show everything.
Tech Lyle: Of course not, he's always gotta keep something up his sleeve. At least it's this one instead of the one I was in. Or Luke. Or even the princess.

*Those gathered did seem to enjoy the show. Some did find Des’ reactions, or lack thereof, somewhat amusing, given it seemed to contrast the tone of the rest of the song. And in spite of Erik’s reservations, it seemed the show went off without a hitch, with the crowd applauding at the end. Still, it left Erik confused, and perhaps missing the hint that was indicated.*
Merk: So… I mean, it was energetic to be sure. *seems a bit confused as well*
Porcius: Hey, how else you gonna spend the zombie apocalypse?
Farust: Trying to find a cure?
Porcius: Ehhhh, but if you don’t have medical know-how?
Farust:…
Taurius: Well, just survive I suppose. Which is more or less what they did.
Erik: Hm… *seems to be listening to the children talk. He did still maintain it was the Creator’s choice what he revealed to them. And he was still reluctant to press him for details, considering what little he already knew about what happened.* In the end, it was entertaining. *nods* Still, we have work to do.

The stage itself dissolves within seconds, revealing Chesh and Monohebi excitedly talking with another Cheshire Cat that looks a bit like Chesh, but judging by their interaction is uniquely different from him. For starters, he wore a green jacket and goggles, actual clothing and not just Chesh's method of changing his fur pattern to resemble clothing.
Creator Chibi: *is suddenly beside Erik* So, what are you and Merk planning today? Is it a surprise birthday for me?
Des: I highly doubt it.
Jun: Yeah, me too.
Hiro: *looking bigger* You guys have any ketchup?
Kiba: *walks away in search of Sirius*
*All of the Creator's kids seem at ease, at least. Lit Gill starts whistling to himself, as if trying to act nonchalant, but anyone who got close to him would feel a sudden pang of hunger. He even leaves his stall of imps and just wanders around the courtyard, very much walking straight towards the Atherusians while acting aloof about it.*

Erik: Hm? *seems to stare at the new Cheshire Cat, wondering who they were, and what he was discussing with Chesh and Monohebi. He didn’t want to think the worst, wishing to follow the example he expected of Sirius. After a moment’s thought, he made some peace with the conclusion Chesh probably prefers ‘exciting’ individuals, and remained focused on the larger threat. And speaking of that threat* Ah, Creator. *nods his head* Oh, it’s nothing that extravagant. Just some bonding with your children.
Merk: *tilts his head* You keep saying this, but you’re acting as if something else is going on.
Erik: Well, I was thinking about stopping by the Guild in particular and asking around. *looks at the Creator and Des* I…I mean, look if you’re available for a discussion, that’d be great. In reality it’s just getting to know your children a little better.
Merk: *seems confused as to why Erik was being so vague, but seems to shrug it off* When is your birthday by the way? Not that we need more motivation to smother you with blubbery forms and take you to a theatre production with a cast of incredibly buff actors. But… is that a matter of… worldly record we just haven’t seen?
Erik: Erm… *In some ways, he was glad Merk changed the topic… but in others he really wished he hadn’t picked THAT topic. He pondered if there was a date in the records he’d read through. Or was it all about how the Creator came to be and not when?*

Sirius: *seems just about done gathering up some of the others in the courtyard. A passing glance at the group would show that they were what appeared to be the eldest nieces and nephews of Erik. From the stoic dragons Stirix and Seishin to the aggressive Dylithos and Vinari, from the contemplative Rinui and Fumoir to the strategic Asargoris and Seki, it was a collection of leaders with varied skills and disciplines… and some with demeanors not dissimilar to the ice wolf’s.* I’m sure father will make it all clear.
Rinui: Are you though? I don’t doubt you, but he seems set on keeping the details vague.
Sirius:. It’s… complicated. *he seemed oblivious to Kiba searching for*
Vinari: Meh, do we ever deal with simple stuff?
Seki: Sometimes we do, yes. Seldomly, but there are the occasional standard matters we needn’t think too hard.

*The Atherusians meanwhile don’t pay Lit Gill too much mind… right up until the chefs and imps were faced with an increasing number of starving mouths.*

Creator Chibi: *appears to listen to Erik as he talks about his plans, even glancing over at Merk when he pops the question* ...Hmm...Everyday is my birthday!
Des: *facepalms* ...That's just his excuse to get anything he wants.
Creator Chibi: Nuh-uh! It's the truth! I say so!
Jun: Have you...Have you ever shown Erik how you came to be? All I know is, he found those records, er, I think Chesh found those records and gave it to him?
Creator Chibi: *appears to think* ...No, I definitely didn't show him how it happened. That's a top secret.

Hiro: *is definitely fatter and more bloated* Okay Gill. *faster than his weight suggests, he grabs Gill and pushes him to the ground* That's enough of that.
Lit Gill: Hey! What's the big- *Sees Hiro turn around* ...Oh.
Hiro: *proceeds to sit on Gill with his fat butt* Better?
Lit Gill: *offers zero resistance and just lays there* ...You could put on a few more kilos.

Kiba: *finds the group Sirius gathered and walks up to them* Hey, Sirius. Mind if I stay by your side for a while? Think of it as...Okay, well, the Creator's being nosy and wants some eyes and ears on you. You don't mind, right?

Erik: *sweat drops along with Merk* Ah, I see. *he does clam up when Jun presses the matter further.*
Merk: Oh really? Well now I'm kind of curious. Did you suddenly gain consciousness and then decide to make the Fused World? I mean, we do know you and Des were chaotic gods for a period and then... well, your children convinced you to try something different if memory serves.
Erik: *clears his throat* He said it was top secret. I don't think it's fair to pry.
Merk: Oh... *shrugs* Alright, fair enough. *chuckles* As I said, we don't need much of a reason to come up with some entertainment you may like. Just ask Selavra or Lavira to work alongside a Gill, or give Sirius or Altrios belly rubs. Or coax Erikon into showing off again.
Erik: H-hey, I have a fair amount of self control, and it might be too early for the Fat World to come back. Besides, you said there'd be buff actors.

Jera: *snickers quietly* I was just about to call for Orynyx. Is that really all it takes to calm the demon?

Sirius: Hm?...*looks uncertain about that* I'm not sure. *He wasn't sure to what end the Creator wished to 'be nosy'....*
Fumoir: Well, we were headed back to speak with Erik, no? Something about a briefing? *looks to ponder* From the sound of that, we'll be working the Fused World on some matter either way.
Sirius: *sighs* You're not wrong. *looks back to Kiba* I don't know how much you know about what's going on, but we're going back to my father to discuss the events of last night, and what the course of action will be today. After that that.... *shrugs* If you wish to come along, that's... more or less your decision. It could involve scouting or general intelligence gathering, given what little we know of the situation.
Paxfried: So we don't even know where we're going?
Sirius:...As I said, general intelligence gathering.

Creator Chibi: Heheheh, hahahahaha! *hugs Merk* Hahahahahaha! *hugs him tighter* Heheheh, I'll skin you alive in your sleep. *steps back and moves to Chesh and Monohebi* Heeey! Been a while since I saw you!
Chesh: Yeah, when was the last time I called you out, by the way?
Cheshire cat: Oh gosh, it's been a long time, huh? I think the last time I was out, the Fused World was trying a cyberpunk aesthetic. You updated the game system yet?
Creator Chibi: Of course I did! I had to replace chemistry with alchemy, though. Too many people causing explosions trying to level it.

Hiro: Well most demons don't wear their heart on their sleeve. They're usually much more secretive about what they want. Not Gill, of course. It's just a matter of giving them what they want, and they can't really complain about it. Ain't that right, Gill?
Lit Gill: *is hugging Hiro's fat tail* ...

Kiba: Understood. *doesn't say anything else, and just follows behind Sirius* ...

Merk: *blinks* Um, eek? F-Fine, I won’t ask about the past again…
Erik: *sweat drops, looking at the Creator* I mean… I’m trying to tell if you’re happy or upset by the idea. *looks over to Chesh and the other Cheshire Cat* And who may I ask is this?
Merk: Uh…doesn’t… alchemy cause explosions too? *seems sheepish about speaking now*

Jera: *nods* I’ll remember that the next time he tries one of his mass-gluttony stunts. I don’t feel Erik would appreciate him being chase off. *glances over at… well, any one of the residents who it was hard to remember if they’d slimmed down and either by Gill’s imps and magic blown back up to some earthshaking size, or they were always like that. Were some… even bigger?*

Sirius: *True to his word, he was headed back over to Erikon, his group still speculating about what the day’s activities would be.*

Creator Chibi: Oh, I'm happy about it, silly! Just a little frustrated that Merk is being straightforward about it. I expected a bit more espionage stuff like going back to the Lit Group and searching their library for more info on me.
Cheshire cat: Oh hi! You must be off-worlders. My name is Koryu, it's nice to meet you! *grabs Erik's paw and gives a vigorous pawshake*
Monohebi: Careful, he's a ray of sunshine and is not afraid to show it.
Des: Yes, alchemy also causes explosions. Don't try to overthink Crey's reasoning.
Koryu: I know I don't!

Hiro: Ah, just be careful if he's being especially forceful. It may take a bit more than one fatty to sate his hunger.
Lit Gill: Oh haha, Gluttony lord and stuff.
Hiro: Hey, you enjoy those puns when you do it with your pallies. You have no ground to criticize my puns.
Lit Gill: Yeah, but they're kinda light for my taste.
*A cursory look around, everyone was at their regular weight. Except for anyone overeating due to hunger from earlier, or are just naturally gluttonous, or are standing close to Gill's imps, as they seem perfectly keen on feeding anyone that asked. And a few that don't ask. They even make a line from the chefs to the nearest hungry maw.*

Kiba: *simply follows Sirius all the way back to Erikon, though his tail is noticeably wagging when the Creator turns to them* ...
Creator Chibi: Ah, Sirius my boy! My son! My one and only trustworthy heir!
Des: What are you talking about?
Creator Chibi: *grabs Sirius by the shoulders* I have an important task that you must complete. See the young lady over there? *points at Selavra* You must deliver this to her, post-haste. *shoves a bouquet of roses into his paws*
Kiba: ... *opens his mouth* ...I have several questions.
Jun: *looks away* And I have plausible deniability.
Wolfried: Is the boss...Trying to pair them together?
Creator Chibi: Hey, a long time ago, I paired Erik and Merk together, and I don't regret that one bit.
Kiba: Excuse me, what the hell?

Erik: I... see. Are you sure about that? *He was speaking to the Creator, but looking to Des, perhaps trying to remind the serious sibling of his affirmation to not reveal more than they creator wished to. He was interrupted by the Cheshire Cat shaking his hand* Oh, well greetings. *nods in turn.*
Merk: Ah, ok. Noted.

Jera: *nods* Fine. I will suggest that Orynyx and Aguaxin bulk up in that case. *Still from the amount of gluttony going on, those were only two of many options available for literal Gill-sitting.*

Sirius: Eh? *sweat drops, taken aback slightly* Uh....not as many as me. I'm like.... mostly certain if you had a heir-system, Wil would fall under that. *looks to Erikon, appearing to desire some instruction.*
Erik: Ah *sweat drops looking over at Merk* Well... in a way he did help. I don't know if I would call it a 'pairing'. *nods to Sirius* We'll talk later.
Sirius: *appears very confused* Alright, I suppose. *nods to the rest of his group* I'll be right back. *leaves to head over to Selavra*
Erik: Hm... *seems mildly disappointed looking over Sirius' group, muttering.* Have you truly outgrown your old dreams? *shakes his head* Well, in any case, what are you planning exactly? I know Sirius and you haven't always seen eye to eye, but he does wish to help.

Creator Chibi: Hmm? Oh, what I'm planning? Well...I'm out of ideas, actually. I could maybe throw a water balloon at Sirius, see if he'll melt.
Des: He's not a wicked witch or whatever you're thinking.
Creator Chibi: ...So you're saying I should fatten him immobile.
Des: ... *throws his hands up* Yeah! Sure! Toss him into a chocolate river while you're at it!
Creator Chibi: *chuckles* Des, you get some weird ideas sometimes. Where am I gonna get a chocolate river?
*The Creator was focused on Sirius, most especially when he would give the flowers to Selavra. When the handover was complete, the flowers would start glowing.*
roses: Roses are red, violets are blue. I'd eat a whole mountain of ice cream for you. *stops glowing*
Creator Chibi: *grabs Erik's paws in anticipation* Do you think...This is the moment our child finds true love?
Koryu: Is Crey alright?
Chesh: Oh yeah, he's just bored and looking for entertainment.
Koryu: Oooh. I could put on my shark diving suit and we can be heroes again.
Monohebi: Oooh! I'll get my armor!
Jun: *moves to Merk and whispers* Hey, if you and Erik wanna go and do what you gotta do, we can...Distract the Creator if you want.

Erik: *facepalms* You... are quite the pair as well. *looks between the Creator and Des. One seemed more and more impulsive while the other seemed more calm and focused.*
Selavra: *seems mildly confused by the roses, though she does look at Sirius sweetly*
Erik: Err, just to help keep you up to speed, since I am aware it is difficult to keep track of who everyone is around here, that's my sister. Well, my...niece I think we decided? *glances at Merk*
Merk: Sister for the sake of simplicity. *sweat drops* Unless you want to hear Kyrice's latest attempt of trying to parse the exact nature of our family tree and where everyone's been throughout the ages.
Vinari: Meh, pass.
Korigen: An interesting topic, the result of scouring many history books, and enough information to fill several more.
Fumoir: The short version; we'd be here for several days.
Selavra: D'aww are you working on something for a love interest?
Sirius: H-hey look, don't get the wrong idea. They're his. *gestures back to the Creator*
Selavra: Hm? *looks in that direction* Oh boo. I think your father would be overjoyed to hear you're interested in someone. Oooh maybe someone to stuff you so big and full~
Sirius: I think he just wants me to follow my own path, thanks. *begins backing off*
Selavra: Ah, well since you're playing messenger. *pulls him close to whisper something in his ear, much to the mild annoyance of the wolf who wondered how he got wrapped up in this.*
Merk: Are...are we sure this is just boredom? *sweat drops before nodding to Jun* That might be best. We might never hear what Erik seems reluctant to share right now.

Creator Chibi: I got time. I'd be interested in hearing how you're all related in close detail. But my attention span is like lv5, so you're gonna have to do it in song.
Des: *facepalm* You want them to explain their family tree, but in the form of a song.
Creator Chibi: Preferably a rock ballad. And a guitar solo!
Jun: *nods to Merk* Well what if I make a rock ballad right now!
Creator Chibi: *turns to him* Oh really? Let's hear it.
Jun: Yeah. Uh... *grabs Jureus* Somewhere, in the depths of time and space, the God of all Existence spoke.
Jureus: ...Oh! Let there be two heroes, destined to save us all!
Wolfried: *plays air guitar* Bananaw, dununununuh!
Jun: *starts singing* At the dawn of all of time and space, a crystal was forged. The...The crystal essence of divinity...
Hiro: Looks like they're keeping Crey occupied. You guys may wanna take your chance to book it, before he does a mini-Fat World here out of boredom.

Merk: Couldn’t agree more! *nudges Erik away to the house’s interior*
Erik: H-hey, I can take a hint!
Sirius: *His ears perk up as he spies what’s going on by the Creator* Uh, I’ll deliver your message later, bye! *scurries off, still wondering how he got wrapped up in this. He collected his team, along with one spare member in Garo, brother to Korigen, who tagged along in secret and followed the rest into the house.*
Jera: Hm, well if the fate of the world is at stake, I would like to be in attendance. *nods* Thank you for distracting Gill. *leaves to join the meeting*

*Inside, the group was gathered around.*
Erik: Okay…. so it took some doing but are we all here? *looks around to do a head count of who was there aside from his kin. He did feel it necessary to include some from the Fused World, for obvious reasons, and did see at least one of the Creator’s vassals in the company of Sirius. He had little doubt they would need the skills of some of the children as well… although in hindsight he pondered how much they should be involved given what they were up against.*

Lit Gill: Hmm? Someone mention my name?
Hiro: Yeah, I think you need a bigger dragon butt sitting on you, so I'll have a late-breakfast pre-brunch meal of, oh, a whole pot of lasagna, two whole boars, and a diet soda.

Kiba: Yo. *waves at Erik*
Light Elly: *is sitting on the couch holding a frilly pillow* ...
Merc Akira: *is standing nearby* ...Is something going on?
Blank: *is peeking out from their open room door* Don't mind us.

*The chefs were happy to oblige, cooking and conjuring up Hiro’s order. And some of the non-chefs were all too happy to let Hiro continue on Gill-sitting duty.*

Erik: *nods* Right, so where to begin…
*Next came a fairly basic, to the point explanation: Last night, Merc Luke came to Gill and them with an ultimatum on behalf of the World Government: Gill was to “remember his place” or they would move forward with the bounty on his head. What came next was a near-reawakening of Monohebi and some information on who exactly the World Government was to the Creator and children. He left out one key detail, causing Sirius to twitch his ears and glance at him.*
Fumoir:… So in essence, an entity from a bygone instance of the Fused World has returned and for reasons presently unknown is attempting to coerce Gill into ceasing his activities.
Rinui: And the mere mention of that entity was enough to nearly bring about the end of world via the monster atop Tartarus from so long ago.
Jera: Hm, I thought I sensed a disturbance last night. It was brief but… *shudders*. Is there anything we can do?
Erik:… At the moment, we’re trying to find out information. All that we can reasonably infer is that they’re trying to use existing systems to execute one facet of their plans. *glances at Merc Akira, pondering if his omission was the right course of action. He looked to think a moment* At present, we have no indication that they are using Amrita or demons, though I would remain on standby should this change Jera.
Jera:… Understood.
Merk: And… what are we to do then? Gather information?
Erik: Yes. *glances one more at the children present* Carefully.
*Even with no words spoken, Merchios seemed to gather there was something more sensitive going on.*
Merk: Ehem, right right. They likely would appreciate us inquiring about them.
Paxfried: Ok, but why the sudden interest? Merc Gill’s been engaged in… rather loud activities for some time. He’s only now beginning to irk them to the point they wish to bargain?
Seki: My guess would be they need him out of the way now. He went from being a tolerable inconvenience, or at least not a pressing concern, to a threat to their plans.

Everyone is silent as Erik explains the incident, and their plans to find more information regarding the World Government.
Merc Akira: We actually get a few bounties from the World Government on a regular basis. All of them are genuinely dangerous criminals and pirates, though, as we couldn't really deny them.
Tech Drake: If you wanted info, you could've asked us to trawl the net.
Tech Elly: Too easy.
Light Elly: ...Oh! *raises a hand* I actually get invitations to the annual royal ball hosted by the World Government. It's supposed to foster relations with other royal people or whatever. I've still got some of their cushions in my closet.
Kiba: *is silently in thought* ...

*The group gathered seem to look at each other when the children describe the ways they could get info on the World Government.*
Sirius: I mean… *nods to Merc Akira* that does track that they would have regular contact with the Guild. Maybe to build a positive reputation? Provide the means for bounties on actual criminals to hide their actual intent?
Korigen: *shrugs* They wouldn’t be the first to do so.
Erik: *nods to Tech Drake and Elly* If you could do that, that would be most helpful. Although, be careful. They may have a public facing profile, and a well-secured private one. *It was an obvious statement…but he felt it needed to be said, given they only knew a part of what they were capable of.*
Gaius: *nods in agreement* Not that you’ll need help it seems, but we do have an effective cyber team as well.
*Everyone was silent when Light Elly put forth an… obvious contribution to the intelligence effort. Although, Erik looked apprehensive about sending one of the Creator’s children into… well, less the lion’s den and more the chimera’s domain. Even if it happened regularly… the sudden interest in Merc Gill may have indicated a shift in policy.*
Vinari: …You think they’d let her take a plus one?
Asar: *face palms* Are you volunteering?
Vinari: *chuckles* ‘Course not! I crack skulls and look intimidating. They’ll be more chatty if they think they’re speaking with another wealthy politician.
Asar: …Amusing, but true.

Light Elly: Okay, come back in 4 months.
Merc Akira: Considering they would have a large reach to put huge bounties on a lot of people, they would use the Guild to have adventurers take them out for them. But it's not really concerning, as they've all been actual criminals and we would've had to arrest them anyway. I'm more concerned by how large their reach is.
Tech Drake: Hey, if you wanna lend us a cyber team, we'd be more than happy to make use of them.
Kiba: ...What if...Gill had assaulted one of them.
Tech Elly: No, something lighter than that. If he did, we'd be seeing his bounty already.

Erik: *nods* Alright, fair enough. *They couldn’t just presume that they would be able to go to a royal ball right away.*
Sirius: *nods to Merc Akira* I agree their reach is concerning, and it would seem they’re using their reach… well, go after someone who may or may not have done something to them.
Gaius: *nods* I’ll gather them up once we’re done here.
Erik: I’m inclined to agree with Tech Elly also. If an assault had occurred, I’m not sure they would try negotiating with the perpetrator. They have the means and a history of putting bounties on criminals.
Fumoir:… I mean, perhaps he witnessed something? That would be relatively lighter, depending on what, and they might be more willing to try and deal with the matter quietly without calling attention to it. *shrugs* If not, we do have a baseline of the hypothesis that they’re planning something and having a force that is difficult to control or predict on the field is a liability.

Merc Akira: Okay, so what do we do about this whole thing?
Kiba: Pretty sure Erik mentioned the Guild. Bounty hunting is an acceptable field of adventure, ya know.
Merc Akira: Okay, but I doubt they would've had any contact with the actual head honchos of the World Government.
Half Wil: In those cases, sending a liaison or a proxy makes much more sense, and it wouldn't necessarily be the same folks, either.
Kiba: When did you get here?
Half Wil: The front door. Dad got bored of the improv rock ballad and wanted to go swim in a lake.
Light Elly: That sounds so soothing...
Kiba: ...Did he leave any presents behind?
Half Gill: Other than Hiro Gill-sitting, he did leave behind a yellow balloon with a "P" on it.
Tech Drake: Of course that stupid balloon would pique his interest.
Half Wil: Of course it's a video game thing...

Erik: I did. The current plan is to see what Merc Luke and Gill know about it. Luke because he’s had contact with the World Government, however limited and through whatever proxies they’ve elected to use. Gill because… well, if he did or saw anything, he’ll be able to speak to it more completely than we are able to guess it.
Sirius: *nods* That’s good logic. But uh… you’re sure Gill’s going to talk to us? He barely brings up missions with us, and elects to charge in head first. What he does bring up is usually coated with talk of beating up bad people, which is technically true to some extent but… not exactly beneficial for our intents
Erik: Well both of those cases can be solved by spending more time with Gill. *looks to think* He’s already shown he cares enough about us to fight the Creator’s influence and come here. *smiles* Say what you may on pirates not following the rules, he could have just as easily ignored the situation if he wished.
Sirius:… Ok, so we spend more time following him around then?
Erik: Indeed… which uh, brings us to the matter of your crew… *looks across the individuals Sirius brought along*
Sirius: *twitches his ears* What about it? *grimaces* You’re not about to ask me to go and hang out with Gill are you?
Erik: Well…I thought it would be a good outing for you and your old team. *it seems at the mention of the ‘old team’ some of Sirius’ team got a bit apprehensive or additionally gruff.*
Sirius: *frowns* One, you know him better than me. Two, you can tolerate his brashness better than me. Three… that team disbanded years ago. Plus I really hope you’re not seriously suggesting we all crowd Gill’s ship?
Erik: *grumbles* Well those first two points show where you can improve. On the third, I would leave the logistics of who to bring in your capable paws.
Sirius: *huffs slightly* Why not Luke though…
Merk: Err, not to butt in, but do we need someone on Creator-distraction duty as well? *looks between Erik and the Fused world children* I understand he may be preoccupied now, but I also understand we seem to be trying to limit his involvement in this. Given this World Government seemed to survive the end of the world, that is… troubling.
Sirius:… On second thought, I’ll take Gill.
Erik: Well I do welcome input on how we should split our forces. *looks among the children* I do know Merc Luke, so my plan was to go and speak with him. I thought Sirius and his fellows could use a nice outing, so I put them forth for Gill. And father… well, he does bring up a fair point, given the Creator’s propensity for… ehem boredom. *looks to him* You sound like you’re volunteering for that?
Merk: If I can help, then yes.

Light Elly: *yawns* ...What?
Merc Akira: Okay, I dunno how much Luke is willing to disclose. And Sirius...Ehhh...
Half Wil: I dunno what this "old team" drama is supposedly about, but as long as you're "fun to be with", Gill will take you in. He's surprisingly simpleminded and perceptive at the same time.
Kiba: This does mean I'll be tagging along, as I still need to keep an eye on Sirius.
Merc Akira: What about dad?
Kiba: Eh...I dunno about that. He left a P-balloon in the courtyard. Something tells me he's gonna keep an eye on this place, and divided attention means he'll be too busy to look at other things.

Erik: *nods* That's fair. I imagine disclosing who is placing the bounty is against Guild policy. And given he likely has history with the World Government...
Gaius: Well, the only way we'll know how much he's willing to disclose is to ask him.
Fumoir: Ah, the old team is just us and our siblings forming one big team. Logistically speaking, I can understand the concern about swarming the ship. *looks to Sirius* Although, you'll agree if the others have talents that will be of use, it would be wise to invite them.
Sirius: *scoffs slightly* I... ponder if we'll have enough time for that level of planning before we're in a brawl... *eyes Kiba* And why, precisely?
Fumoir: Err, perhaps to further divide the Creator's attention, hm?
Merk: Well, that sounds like a reason enough to have some of us do activities around here. *nods* Which means poking the balloon.
Erik: *sweat drops* Or... I don't know, encouraging someone else to?

Half Wil: It sounds like we have a plan, then.
Light Elly: Goodnight. *heads to her room*
Kiba: It's morning, but sure.
Merc Akira: I guess I'll join you guys back to the Guild, I gotta pick up some stuff anyway.
Kiba: Blank can get onto that net trawling task, and Sirius will meet up with Merc Gill.
Half Wil: ...Anyone know where they are right now?

Erik: *nods* It does. We should be able to head out shortly.
Gaius: I’ll go gather up our members for the net trawling team.
*Although, at the mention of where Merc Gill was right now, everyone seemed to draw a blank.*
Erik: Hm, I’m reasonably certain he hasn’t been seen since last night, around here at least. *looks to think* Unless he’s gone back to the guild, a potential starting point would be to head to the beach and see if there are any signs where he may have gone.
Sirius: Sounds like… a plan at least. *looks to him* We’ll discuss who’s going with us and then head out there. If we learn anything else, we’ll act on it if possible.
Merk: Well then, the meeting would seem to be adjourned.

Merc Akira: Got it. Meet up outside in 5 minutes. *heads to his room*
Tech Drake: We'll get started on info gathering.
Tech Elly: I hope you guys have plenty of rope. *shuts the door*
Kiba: ... *sigh* Is it the P-balloons?
Jun: *opens the front doors* Guys? Uh, a few people touched the yellow balloon that the Creator left in the courtyard. Aaand they inflated, but they can't remove the air in their bodies.
Kiba: I'm guessing the air won't leave until the "power-up" wears off.

Erik: *nods* Understood.
Gaius: *looks confused* Rope? *sweat drops before taking his leave to go and collect some tech assistance.*
Erik: *looks confused* And it hasn’t popped? *sighs*
Merk: I’ll take care of matters here, including if anyone wants to hang out.
Erik: Alright. Just make sure no one goes floating off. I’d… rather not have a repeat of yesterday.
Merk: *nods heading outside.*
Sirius: *looks at Erik briefly before heading out into the courtyard as well, likely to assemble a small group for the beach investigation… possibly concerned about the Creator’s intent. Still, he couldn’t help but wonder: why did Erik leave out the fact the World Government had killed Luke and Gill’s brother? He seemed completely oblivious to Garo making an exit from the meeting, heading straight for Altrios.*

Back outside, Hiro is considerably wider and is engulfing Gill almost completely, except for his tail still sticking out. The Creator's children who were hanging around outside or just arriving were all minding their own business, mostly chatting with the Atherusians.
Tech Lyle: What do you think the pH balance of the soil around here? The plants you all cultivate are thriving, but they could still get healthier like a certain pig's gut in a buffet.
Shadow Lyle: *is pacing in a circle* ...
Half Wil: Oh boy, I see a few problems.
Lit Luke: Oh you think?
Floating around is a large yellow P-balloon, drifting in whatever direction it wanted. A few feet in the air is the incredibly rounded air-inflated forms of Porcius, Cai, and Azure. The balloon suddenly jerks as a light breeze actually sends it into Jean-Louis. As it bounces off his side, a hissing sound is heard, and the cream wolf quickly inflates big and round and starts floating off.
Half Wil: Do I have any string here? *searches his pockets*

Sirius: *looks a bit annoyed as he picks out his group.*…
Merk: Hey, don’t worry. I said I’d handle matters here. *pats his shoulder* Plus, this really reads as he just wanted to have a bit of random fun if you ask me.
Sirius: I… whatever. *picks out Vinari, Korigen and Rinui to accompany him. He does look back to Stirix.* Remain on standby. We may need transport out to wherever Gill is.
Stirix: Understood. *watches as the others leave*
Erik: Eh… I get that sense too.*looks over to Merk before watching Sirius leave* It does seem like he’s bored and wanted something to happen…well, something outside of what may already be happening.
Merk: *nods* It may be a fair sign he wishes to focus on something comical and fun rather than… well the net you’re going to investigate. *looks back to him* Just… be careful.
Erik: *chuckles* What? I tend to be careful. *leaves, recruiting Kelvicelsiureit and Asteriskar before heading out to the Guild*

Adonis: Huh… I mean, I don’t know if anyone has actually bothered studying the pH properties of magic-enhanced soil. Oooh I wonder if it makes a sort of micro-biome around the roots of the plant. *appears to be focused on the soil needs of different plants that all seem fine growing together.*
*Elsewhere, true to what he said earlier, Rufus and a few others were in the process of rebuilding Lyle’s stand. Dojin even whistled nonchalantly as he worked on a neon sign of a Lugia… whose big belly resembled a huge potion flask. Grimacing in frustration, Rufus did make one small change to the design of the stand: making it modifiable, perhaps so that Lyle could choose whether or not he used the sign.*
*Meanwhile, the three inflated individuals, now four just bobbed around in the air.*
Azure: H-hey! Don’t give us that look, the balloon came to us.
Porcius: Yeah!
Jean: I uh… can attest to that. *shrugs* I’m used to this at least.
Merk: Alright shhh, no harm’s been done here. *creates a few shadow tethers, making it to where those inflated couldn’t float too far off. He even attempted to tie down the balloon. It could still get caught by a stray breeze, but it gave it a bit of a radius so that it could be worked around, as long as one was careful.* Just so I can assuage the scowling, does anyone know how long this lasts?

*While Gaius gathers the members for the tech team, Merc Akira follows after Erik and his team to the Guild. Kiba follows behind Sirius and his team as they go down to the beach in search of Merc Gill. As if to answer Merk's question, Half Wil walks towards the inflated individuals and equips what look like a doctor's stethoscope. He stares at them for a few seconds and shrugs.*
Half Wil: It looks like the status effect lasts for about 10 minutes.

Merc Luke: *is in the Guild serving drinks at the bar*

*A pirate ship sails in the distance, visible on the horizon*

*In short order Gaius had gathered up a fairly diverse group of tech-aligned allies among the Atherusians. This included Saorvanos the dragon, Carsios, a parakeet, lion and a form of serpent hybrid. The group was prepared to assist in researching the World Government on the internet*
Merk: *nods* Oh good. Well, the tether should keep the chaos down, provided everyone is aware of the balloon. Now then... *looks around the courtyard, perhaps pondering what they could do. He spies Sarkon and appears to have an idea.* Oh! He did leave a note on that idea. *approaches where Hiro and Lit Gill are.* Is it acceptable to run an idea by Lit Gill? I think there was mention of putting some of our demons through...Gluttony Demon training? Or was it just letting them practice with expansion magic? *looks to think a moment before shrugging* Eh, either way. I think an outing with Lit Gill was mentioned at some point.

Erikon: *continues plodding along, once Merc Akira joined them, looking uncertain about asking something as they walked. Eventually, he elected to ask* Ehem, I didn't wish to bring this up back at the meeting but... have there always just been seven of you, Akira? Seven siblings and group members I mean.

Sirius: *spies the pirate ship in the distance, sighing quietly* Looks like we may need to take to the skies after all.*
Rinui: *nods* I'll inform Stirix we'll need air transport. *leaves to head back to the house.*
Korigen: What do you think he's up to?
Sirius: *shrugs* I... haven't really seen him plan anything so...

Blank is currently in their room, eating what look to be packets of MREs. A glance around the room showed the only evidence they took part in breakfast is the large empty ramen bowls sitting in the corner.
Tech Elly: Start breaking the firewalls, but don't trip any alarms.
Tech Drake: They definitely market themselves as defenders of justice and all that crap.
On a few screens in the room showed websites affiliated with the World Government, and how their navy is like a police force against any pirate activity.

The shadow tethers were keeping the affected individuals from floating off, and the balloon certainly isn't breaking free from its hold. Hiro looks over at Merk and shrugs in response.
Hiro: Perhaps a little exercise would be good for Gill. *slowly gets up* Up and at em!
Lit Gill: Mmm...butts.

Merc Akira: What? Er, yeah. It's always been seven. Seven members in a Group. Although...I do remember Luke and Gill called someone else their brother a really long time ago.

Kiba: *watches Sirius without saying anything*

*Gaius and his team took a moment to look around before getting to their stations. It seemed they were used to Blank by this point, even the newer members or those that hadn’t had much interaction with them.*
Gaius: Alright, you heard them. Get in, get out with the info, don’t leave any sign you were ever present.
*They began examining the websites, looking for what information the World Government was willing to say about themselves. The one entry seemed quite useful for their purposes. However, the group started small, avoiding the more secure or high profile websites, knowing they’d likely have the most alarms around to protect that information. With a few sets of credentials, they could make an effective pass key… and the navy’s website would be a great place to begin their information search.*

Merk: *nods before explaining the proposition to Gill* I believe Erik would like some of the demons to work on their gluttony abilities. This is important for the management of demons on Atherus, given that using nonaggressive means of subduing them is preferred to open conflict. Where possible of course. *looks to think* I will note that this is a learning process. There is a high chance they will mismanage magical energies during this process and someone will end up massive. If they’re not careful, they may end up rolling on top of you. *Of course, he didn’t think these warnings would dissuade Gill*

Erik: Oh, I see. If it’s… not too much trouble, do you recall anything from that time? It… does apparently relate to what’s going on, I assure you.
Kelvin: *strides close by, saying nothing…but sensing something was amiss with the dragon*

*It was a few moments of silence, with Sirius having said nothing else on the subject of Merc Gill, or anything else for that matter. Rinui soon returned with the towering Stirix.*
Stirix: Hm, *crouches down to permit access to his back* so we’re headed after the ship?
Sirius: *gets on Stirix with the rest of his group, awaiting Kiba.* At a distance. I don’t know where we’re going. If we fly into airspace… unfriendly to dragons we may need to break off. Otherwise, I’d prefer approaching them once they’ve docked somewhere.

It begins with some basic information regarding the World Government. They tout themselves as the law makers to tame the pirate-infested waters, with their rule enforced by the navy. They have a navy HQ, which also has an execution platform meant for only the worst of the worst. They even have an impenetrable prison fortress on an artificial island, housing some of the craziest criminals to terrorize the sea. At least, this is all that they're sharing to the public.
Tech Drake: Well now...They hold a summit or ball or whatever to schmooze with the royal folk, affiliated or otherwise. And it takes place on a different location every year.
Tech Elly: Why can't we be invited to a fancy ball like sis?
Tech Drake: The guys in Akiba threw a fan meet and greet some ages ago, didn't they?
Tech Elly: And they all complimented your Dragon Hunt 3 character instead of mine...

Lit Gill: *immediately gets up* When do we start!?
Hiro: Well that was fast.
Half Wil: You would think he'd need a second after the metal-element Vassal sat on him after putting on several hundred pounds of extra weight.
Hiro: Are you calling me heavy? *feigns insult*

Merc Akira: ...It's not a happy memory, Erik. All I can tell you is that Luke and Gill know the real story. But a long time ago, they thought his friend died before their eyes.

Kiba: *climbs onto Stirix with the others* Ya know, Gill's crew already has a pretty fierce reputation as being bloodthirsty pirates. Are you really sure about heading over to talk to him?

*The group sifts through the information, gradually building a picture of the navy branch of the World Government.*
Carsios: Well, this gives two locations to gather further intelligence. They may prefer keeping detailed records more localized, although there are likely communications between the different areas we can use.
Parakeet: Yeah... weren't some of Gill's crew imprisoned before subsequently being freed?
Gaius: Probably not that place... but if there's a connection, "craziest criminals" might just translate to "people we want alive and muzzled"
Lion: The hosting of a ball would track with what Light Elly brought up, yes? I believe we were considering that as another intelligence opportunity.
Saorvanos: Um... if I may, do you two wish to attend a fancy ball? I thought you disliked crowds is all.

Merk: *chuckles* As soon as you want. Well, I do still have to go gather up the demons. You can come along for that if you'd like.
*There were a few sweat drops around the courtyard in agreement with Hiro and Half Wil*
Jera: So the way to placate him is by sitting on him and the way to stir him is by mentioning gluttony. Who would have thought?
Merk: Ah, speaking of demons...
Jera: *blinks* Err, look I appreciate the gesture but I'm quite happy with my current means of calming demons.
Merk: Eh, well in fairness I'd rather just introduce Gill to the demons, who and how many he takes under his... tutelage should be his choice. They all have potential, after all.
Jera:... Which is just your way of saying he gets to choose what demonic creature he gets to lay under when their "training" goes wrong.
Merk: *snickers* You said it, I didn't.

Erik: I... gathered as much. I'm still working out how to ask this of Luke.
Kelvin: Well, you seem prepared to gauge his responses.... and this death is relevant to our inquiry of the World Government I gather?
Erik:...
Kelvin: ... It's just outside your character to go dredging up unhappy memories without a reason.
Erik: ... At the moment, I'm still surprised there was, for lack of a better descriptor, an eighth member of the Merc Group. And now there's not, apparently because of the group who gave an ultimatum to Gill last night.
Kelvin: Hm... we're not just dealing with sinister apocalypse survivors, are we?
Aster: *scoffs* Well they never sounded like some band of wasteland raiders to begin with.

Sirius: *shrugs* A fierce reputation, and ample public support if what father recounts is true. *looks back to Kiba* I gather you're more concerned about appearing to be in league with Merc Gill and his crew rather than what harm they might do to us? Because you and I both know they tend to be "bloodthirsty" towards corrupt entities, and have a track record of fleeing the authorities. *pauses to think* The way I see it, we either set out after them to ask our questions, or we wait for them to dock here again, which they may or may not do depending on the circumstances. What do you suggest, Kiba? *it did appear to be a genuine question. Going after Gill may have been a mistake... but matters were different now. The same logic that potentially made pursuing him a bad idea also meant he might stay away from the house.*

Tech Drake: Oh we definitely dislike crowds. Especially if they have your ugly mugs in them. *gets a high-five from Elly*
Tech Elly: We just want the adoration.
Tech Drake: *opens a news site* ...Well now. It says here they won a war against an army of pirates that tried to rescue a convicted criminal. I wonder how much they're downplaying what went down...
As the team is able to build up security keys, they do find a recruitment website located on another island. And the first piece of hidden information they find is that members of the navy have been known to receive credit for the actions of other people.
Tech Elly: For example, a bonehead digi and his crew rescuing a town or two?

Lit Gill: Come on, Jera. Even you must agree that you can't have too many tricks in your arsenal. *although he eyes Jera like a predator to prey*

They arrive at the Guild, with Akira heading in first. Luke is there polishing glasses while whistling to himself. A look around showed very few adventurers present today.

Kiba: *snickers* Are you implying I may be corrupt in some way? I ought to fry your tail for such a comment. *shakes his head* Anyway, it doesn't look like they're changing course to our direction. So we may as well go to them.

Saorvanos: *sweat drops* Alright then…
Gaius: *his ears perk up at hearing about the World Government’s victory in the war against an army of pirates* Wait, go back to that if you could. I presume that’s not about Gill? As far as we’re aware he has succeeded in freeing prisoners. How much detail do they go into?
*While the team ran final checks on the credentials they’ve constructed, the new website garnered additional interest.*
Carsios: Hm, that makes sense. If they take credit for Gill’s heroics, and either fully omit the destruction that follows or place the blame for that fully on Gill, it would bolster their own reputation.
Parakeet: But people are very much aware of Gill’s heroics.
*There was a moment of silent realization.*
Saorvanos: Um… does that sound like there might be a net gradually closing in around Gill? Like if they’re able to perfect doing that, take all the credit, put all the blame on Gill, and leave no one to speak to what actually went on.
Serpent: What you’d have is a destructive pirate and a heroic navy. Only now with the latter having full public support.
Lion: …Alright, so we’re on the clock. Nothing has changed then. *nods to the recruitment site* This offers some unique opportunities, however. Depending on the risk, we could send someone there to collect information. What recruits are deployed where could also be of use. Like if we were to locate recruits to public relations, we may have found where stories go to be altered, and where evidence of what actually happened is present.
Carsios: *nods* Possibly. Depending on how much information is kept on-site rather than globally accessible, we may need to go to these locations at some point.

Jera: *rolls his eyes* I will accompany Merchios purely to make sure he informs you of who these demons are. Some are welcome additions to any team. Others are recently reformed from… ehem, wrath, envy or greed, if we’re using other evils. Others still are a risk.
Merk: *chuckles* Splendid! Then we have a few minutes to convince you to accompany Gill. Oh, you could go to make sure the more nasty demons remain in line. *walks off to gather up the demonic residents.*
Jera: *opens his mouth to object… though he finds it hard to argue. It was a legitimate reason to go. A sigh escapes his maw, a shrug raising his shoulders.* If you really wish me to come along then fine. I have every confidence Sarkonith can perform the task of demon-sitter. But I do agree you should be mindful of who and how many you take on. Ultimately, that choice is yours in the end. *follows along after Merk*

Erik: *moves to approach Luke* Luke, are you free for a discussion? I wish to talk about last night. *glances around* In private, if at all possible.

Sirius: *scoffs* No, I meant all of us appearing to be in league with Gill. I uh… apologize if it came across as singling you out. *motions for Stirix to take off after the ship. With that, the dragon takes off with a beat of the wings and heads toward the ship, staying a fair distance away.* That’s what I meant by him potentially not coming back to the house. With the heightened interest in him… well, contact with anyone risks the World Government targeting them. *shrugs* Granted, I don’t know if he’s that forward thinking…but it’s not like I lack a reason to think he is. *To the contrary, working to avoid a destructive conflict in the wrong setting with Luke showed some sense of planning. This was not lost on the ice wolf.*
Rinui: *shrugs* Plus he might need our help. Emphasis on might. We don’t know the extent of what he’s had to fight up until now… but we also don’t know what weapons or tactics the World Government will deploy.

Tech Drake: Hmm...Not a lot of detail, actually. It's mostly journalistic fluff to hype up the battle.
Tech Elly: *shakes her head* Not feasible. New recruits undergo a couple years of navy bootcamp before they're assigned a post. You guys have people with skill to maybe cut that down, but soldiers are trained for obedience, not combat.
Tech Drake: I could use the fake credentials to look at their more private communications, however limited that might be. If the navy is the World Government's right hand men, we might finally find something about them.
*It takes a bit of work, but they find something interesting. Merc Gill broke into the impenetrable prison through unknown means, and then broke out again with a large group of inmates. Not only that, but following this string of communication, Gill was seen at the war at navy HQ, along with an admiral Luke.*
Tech Drake: What the...
Tech Elly: Luke is in the navy? Huh.
Tech Drake: *opens another channel* ...And there's a security video from the war. Encrypted, but it should be easy enough to handle.
Tech Elly: Any dead man's traps?
Tech Drake: Mmm...There's one. We could watch maybe a few seconds before an alarm sounds. Wanna risk it?

Lit Gill: If I was a greed demon, I'd probably say all of them...Oh what the hell! I'd still pick all of them! *follows behind Merk and Jera, though he glances at the balloon for a moment.*
*The ballooned individuals still had about another minute left, though Gill casts a glance at them with a smile.*

Merc Luke: ... *nods to an open room* That'll be good enough. Akira?
Merc Akira: Leave it to me.
*Luke guides them into the empty room while Akira stays outside, presumably to keep watch.*
Merc Luke: This is about that warning to Gill, isn't it.

Kiba: Even if our beloved pirate captain isn't forward thinking, his crew is. They probably forced him to stay away when it's a neverending party at Erik's house.
*As they head to the ship while also keeping their distance, they could steadily make out members of the crew milling about. They actually look pretty relaxed, all things considered.*

Carsios: *nods* Fair point. In the end, the amount of intel they'd be able to get to us might be limited.
Lion: And we may not have that kind of time.
Parakeet: Our thoughts exactly, Drake. They might have stuff that's only accessible within these branches. But they'll still discuss their plans, or at least material they don't want everyone else hearing about.
*They all take a look at the latest articles of information they found.*
Seprent: Well, that's intriguing. I wonder why they haven't sought out Gill sooner, given that would undercut two of their major stories.
*Then came another major revelation, and that was Luke's connection to the navy. When it came to whether or not to watch the video, Gaius paused*
Gaius: Are we just about done? If we're going to trip an alarm, it should be once we're ready to leave for now.
Parakeet: Got the credentials copied, along with what we've discovered so far.
Carsios: Location's scrambled too. We should be set to lock up on the way out. To them, it should appear that only the video was accessed, and they'll be sent on a bit of chase.
Gaius: Alright, well if we're done, go ahead. Let's see what's on the video.

Jera: *facepalms as he follows along. As they walked, Merk gathered up Sarkon, and a collection of other demons. They ranged in form and motive. There was a cockatrice, a few goats, an equine, the hellhound Balor, a hellhound with literal hair on fire, a muted avian, a horned rabbit, a trunked yokai, a boar and a dual headed serpent. One charcoal goat in particular was large, well built, gruff and huffy, remaining toward the back of the group, seeming to have a preference for keeping his distance from everyone. He did seem to exude a large font of power.*
Sarkon: I'm.... still not sure this is a good idea.
Merk: Oh hush, I think some gluttony training would be good for everyone.
Jera: Yeah, they're pretty sold on this idea already... *looks to Gill* Do you at least desire a basic introduction of everyone?
Sarkon: I'm more concerned about where this training will take place. I don't want anyone breaking off from the group to try and start up a new city of demons or create a new dungeon without some clearance from Erik.
Rabbit: Aw, do you really have that little faith in us?
Sarkon: Yes. Yes I do. Some of you at least.

Erik: *follows Luke into the room, with his party remaining outside* It is. We're currently looking into the World Government and are pursuing different sources of information. I'd like to ask what you can share about them.

Sirius: *nods* That is true.
*Once the ship was in sight. Stirix kept his distance, making sure they were in view, and that they were ready to descend once they determined where they were docking.*

Tech Elly: Most likely, they still use physical papers or have closed networks to keep any outside folks out.
Tech Drake: How usefully archaic. Welp, here goes...
*The video begins to play. There was no sound, but it did show Luke in a navy officer's uniform. There was a prisoner beside him in some kind of stockade, but the angle didn't show any details. They were on some kind of wooden platform, and smoke seemed to billow in front of them. Luke was talking, judging by his mouth movement. Merc Gill runs up to them, injured and panting. He then breaks out into a smile as the three of them start talking. Gill seems to grow upset and punches Luke to the ground. He just stays there, not moving while Gill undoes the prisoner's locks.*
Tech Drake: ...Is it just me, or is Luke just letting them get away?

Lit Gill: Yeah, sure. An introduction is fine. Just gimme a sec. *he makes some chocolate, crackers, and marshmallows in the air. And then he takes a stick, jabs marshmallows on it, and goes over to the hellhound with flaming hair and does what one would expect.*

Message: Strengthen your bond to gain more information.
Merc Luke: The World Government...Well, they were founded by this...Pack of thugs who had the power to survive the previous Fused World iterations. I say "had", they've grown complacent in their prideful positions. They made the navy and dressed it up as arbiters of justice. But clearly, they break their own rules, since the navy can't arrest them. Theft, murder, slavery, and that's on a good day. *seems to stare at empty space*

Merc Gill: HEEEY!!!
*They see Gill climb the mast and proceed to wave his arms frantically.*
Kiba: I don't think he seems to mind our presence.

Saorvanos: Yeah, that’s true.
Parakeet: So a B&E might be in our future?
Gaius: Don’t get too excited. We should form a plan before taking that kind of action. It’s a little more difficult to mask our acitvity.
Saorvanos: …
*They watch the video seeing Luke and a prisoner, and then Gill.*
Carsios: It’s hard to make out what they’re saying…but I’m inclined to agree with Drake, if only because of what we know about Merc Luke.
Lion: *nods* Indeed. He might not be able to publicly support Gill’s actions… but he doesn’t seem like he’ll correct someone who touts how Gill’s actions saved them from villains.
Serpent: That’s what we currently knew. This is… well, if he’s letting them escape…
Gaius: *grimaces* It would seem to fall on the line of openly supporting what Gill was doing. I… sincerely hope these guys haven’t picked up on that detail. *looks around* Are we set to exfiltrate?
Parakeet: Yeah, window’ll close behind us once we leave. They get particularly curious, they can go investigate some nondescript location. Otherwise, it’s just a glitch in the system.

*Jera, Merk and Sarkon were speechless. The hellhound did not seem too fussed about it.*
Fire Hellhound: Eh, not the first time.
*One of the goat demons, one with dull green fur and brighter swirls spoke up*
Goat demon: Well, if I may begin. I am Zakucabros. I normally busy myself assisting others in the pursuit of knowledge.
Equine demon: I am Dariann. I have held a variety of roles, though none really capture my interest *shrugs*
Avian: *simply nods* Falchurok.
Doberman: … Megatarun.
Boar: Hehe, I’m Gamus! And I’m pleased you think me a demon!
Jera: … You’ve lived for centuries, seen multiple wars, and survived multiple mortal injuries.
Gamus: Well yes, you have a point.
Trunked-demon: *nods* I am Shinko, professional eater of imaginary depictions cast by slumbering individuals. *shrugs* Reformed eater of dreams, to an extent.
Hellhound: Yeah, if I can speed this along. You probably know me already as Balor. *gestures to the cockatrice, rabbit and dual-headed serpent.* That’s Ludovic, Rabuth, Bayon and Belkin, respectively. The one you’re using as a fireplace is Masaru. We’ve all had… err, colorful pasts. But we are working with this lot to help defend Atherus and stuff.
*That left the other goat, who seemed unwilling to speak*
Merk: Aw, c’mon, don’t be a stick in the mud. You’re the newest member to the demon squad.
Goat: … Baphormisith. Don’t forget it.

Erik: *nods along* Well, I’m not surprised. But… this is more information than I was expecting. I mean, I was under the impression they still had that power. That does imply their pride may be their weakness. *clears his throat* Rest assured, I don’t wish to minimize what they have done and could still do, especially without knowing . But I do wish to help, hence why I’m asking about them. *looks to think a moment* Is there anything else you can tell me? Like… why would they be after Gill now? You and I both know he’s been very loudly fighting against corrupt figures for some time. Why try to bargain with him now when he’s likely been against them for…well, I imagine a long time.

*The group in flight was relatively silent.*
Rinui: So about his perception.
Sirius: *rubs his temples* To paraphrase and add to Luke’s statement, he probably wouldn’t last this long on brawn and a good crew alone.
Korigen: Should we…go down and speak to him?
Sirius: *sighs* Well, he knows we’re here. *he motions for Stirix to descend so they can speak without yelling as loudly at each other.*

Tech Drake: Yep, time to get going.
Tech Elly: But the navy won this fight.
Tech Drake: They did.
Tech Elly: What happened to the prisoner?
Tech Drake: According to a report, died during the battle.
Tech Elly: Brother...
Tech Drake: I know. It's a real touchy subject that those two wouldn't wanna relive. *exits the navy's domains and making sure there were no traces of their search*

Lit Gill: *eats some s'mores before looking at Baphormisith* ...What's your name? I forgot.
Hiro: *is watching the interaction with a shake of his head*
Lit Gill: *chuckles* You're one of the naughty ones, aren't you? Terrorized some folk before team Erik took you down, and now you're on probation. I can tell, you reek of vengeful frustration and embarrassment. *looks at the other demons* ...Rabuth, Masaru, Shinko. You guys stand out the most in my head right now, so I hope we get along just fine! *points at the now-deflating balloon individuals* Let's start off with a little practice, okay? Show me how much you know about Gluttony.

Merc Luke: Just needed to let it out, I suppose. *looks at Erik* My guess for why they're paying Gill attention? He proved himself a threat. One that even the navy would have to struggle to contain. If he rallies all of his allies to him... *shakes his head* Well, let's just say he has much more than pirates by his side. Much, much more.

As Stirix descends so they were in earshot...Gill proceeds to jump off of the mast and onto Stirix.
Kiba: *moves back* Whoa! Pirate on board!
Merc Gill: Guys! How ya doing? Did you come over just to talk? Come on! We're gonna have a second breakfast soon! You guys totally can't miss out on Darro's cooking. It's the best!
Kiba: Aren't you a cook too?
Merc Gill: Me? Oh, I only learned how to make Guilmon bread when I still lived with dad. My sibs have to guide me with everything else! Now come on! *grabs everyone* Let's go eat!

Gaius: *twitches his ear at Elly’s comment, and Drake’s response* Alright, that’s probably enough for now. I know we were careful, but I’d rather not push our luck too far in one session.
Carsios: *nods* It was informative to say the least. We have multiple avenues to continue our search through. To your point though, it is crucial we don’t cause them to raise their guard.
Lion: … Do you think records still exist on this prisoner?
Serpent: I… won’t go pursuing something we don’t know the present relevance for. If they do still exist, they’ll likely be heavily guarded.
Parakeet: Yeah, suffice to say it gives Gill as reason to dislike the navy, probably Luke too. Beyond that… *shrugs* I mean, if we wanna run a truth campaign and start digging up the bodies they’ve buried, we’ve got options.
*With that, the group appeared ready to disband.*

Baphormisith: *lets out a low growl*
Merk: Oh, you got it spot on. Erik blew him up to quite a large size to show off his abilities to the rest of the demons.
Baphormisith: Shut it!
Jera: *sweat drops* Indeed. I imagine he let him come here due to our close proximity to one another. If he tries anything, there are several hundred eyes that might see at a given moment, not including the Creator’s, your siblings and any of your allies that may be here on a given day. If he escapes into the Exploration Zone… well, he hasn’t given Erik a reason to come to his rescue. Any rules he breaks or crimes he commits fall on his head, along with any punishment you all may deem fit for him.
Baphormisith: *growls* As if that would intimidate me.
Sarkon: Well, you are still here.
Rabuth: Eeyy, we made the cut. *appears gleeful*
Shinko: I’m pleased.
Masaru: Eh, I’ll try my best. I’m more a bomb thrower and deal maker.
*The deflating individuals soon made contact with the ground, as the excess air left them.*
Rabuth: Pfft, piece of cake. *strides up to Azure* Hey big guy! You were up there a long time. *pats his flank, a little bit of magic being visible at the contact point* Feeling like getting a bite to eat?
Azure: Oh you know it!
Masaru: *shrugs heading over to Porcius* Hey, you wanna get something to eat? It’s about lunch time.
Porcius: Sure!
Shinko: *chuckles, approaching Cai* I know you dream of bountiful harvests. You desire that no one goes hungry. Would you accept assistance in this endeavor, that the horrors of hunger may be abated?
Cai: D’aw, you know just what to say!
*The trio of demons appeared to have their partners set, two having gotten what appeared to be low hanging fruit with the third being a temporary alliance between the profane and divine, while the remaining ones looked around*
Sarkon: I… take it we’re all supposed to go around and find someone to help “show” you what we know about gluttony? Or just those three. *sweat drops*

Erik: *nods* Understood. I had similar thoughts relating to Gill. I still wonder how he did that though. As I said, he’s been very vocally ignoring rules and authority for some time. You’ve shown me some of the records and reports: they usually depict significant monetary and property damages. Although… when you put it that way, perhaps it isn’t this that they fear? We have also discussed previously how Gill has a lot of public support from his endeavors. If he rallied these allies to him… well, in many ways, it could mean the end of the facade the navy has. That reputation as an arbiter of justice reduced to nothing.

*Needless to say, Sirius’ group were surprised by the sudden boarding. Not fearful or defensive… but quite a jump.*
Sirius: Well-yes, we did just come to talk.
Vinari: And maybe help out against bounty hunters or in a prison break.
Rinui: Vinari.
Vinari: What? We were all thinking it, and don’t you deny it!
Rinui: That’s… not the point.
*Still, the group did little to resist Gill. Stirix descended further to offer a safer boarding of Gill’s ship.*

Tech Drake: *sighs as he closes all the open channels* Merk is playing with the demons outside, he's gonna wanna know what we found so far.
Tech Elly: ...Is Luke still in the navy?

Lit Gill: Hmm? *turns to Sarkon* Oh yeah! Partner up with your favorite food I guess! Oh, and Baphy? *grins* You should be careful. Pain and death are some of the lightest punishments we can think of around here. *blinks* ...Huh, I feel like we've had this conversation before...
Hiro: Deja vu?

Merc Luke: Yeah...Yeah. What are you going to do, Erik? *the Heirophant card appears above him*

While Stirix is descending closer to the ship, Gill hops off of him. All while still holding everyone in his arms.
Kiba: GILL!
Merc Gill: *lands on his feet, absorbing the impact of everyone's weight before letting go of them* Food time! Food time! Food time! *marches towards the deck of the ship, where a large table is set up*
Simon: Guys! Why are we not getting away! That giant monster descending from the sky is gonna eat me!!!
Barn: *looking at Stirix* A g-g-giant monster!?
Darro: *carrying out the food* I prepared a nice beef curry, a vegetable pasta with spicy wasabi sauce, careful it's hot, a macaroni stew with garlic bread croutons, and for dessert, creme brulee!
Ryugami: Oh, everything looks so good, my stomach won't stop growling! Well, if I still had one!
*Other than their brave sniper mouse riling up the Barioth doctor of the crew, everyone else appeared completely unperturbed by the appearance of Sirius' team. There even seemed to be a new member, from the looks of it.*
Kiba: Sorry for dropping in like that, but your captain didn't give us much of a choice.
Mentah: Yeah, he's like that usually.

Gaius: *nods* I'll give him a summary, and we'll report to dad when he comes back. *leaves*
Lion: *blinks at what Elly said* That's... a good question.
Carsios: It's something to ask him to be sure. Or search for if we get around to accessing personnel files. *looks to think* It might depend on whether his employers think like you do, and that it appears he allowed Gill and the prisoner to escape.

Sarkon: Food? *frowns* People, Gill. People.
Baphormisith: *growls*
Merk: Hehehe, the point is Erik wouldn't invite you here without a plan and insurance.
*Still, with the missive given, the rest of the demons broke off to interact with the others. Some followed Masaru's example and went with the path of least resistance. Sarkon went with Zhulai, seeking a basic meal, only to get more than he bargained for when Konwu demanded a seat at the table and a contest of gluttony ensued between the brothers. Jera, to humor Gill, went with Kagara the mouse, also desiring a quiet meal, though finding the tables quickly turned as the mouse thought Jera didn't look enough like a gluttony demon, and took advantage of the fox's sweet tooth. Dariann, seeming fairly indifferent, sought a random individual in Arisar the draconic pegasus before going to eat with him and steadily entice him to eat more. Mega seemed wholly of Sark and Jera's mindset, more being chosen by Teri the arcane jackolf than actually choosing him, the fellow canine attempting to get his friend to loosen up. Falchu was similar, though he at least chose Juzu, who was thoughtful and accepted the avian's invitation. Gamus was incredibly boisterous, not choosing just one individual but rallying with Gallus, Gnash, Tokezu, Maki and other warriors in an uproarious mini-feast. Bayonbelkin took some time, mostly due to the heads' differing interests before compromising accompanying Laikon on a lunch date with Selavra. Although, it couldn't be clearer the two serpents disagreed on what gluttony meant to them.*
Masaru: Whew, *steadily swelling, both from Porcius pigging out and from the occasional meal being shoved his way.* You *burp* really should save that for yourself, urp.
Porcius: Nuh-uh, gotta make sure you get your meal too!
Masaru: Oh I am, trust me. *sweat drops*
*Others were like Rabuth and more devious and... perhaps Gill like, using their powers to...entice their partner to eat a little more. Ludovic greedily picked Tirath to accompany on a gluttonous meal... although, not unlike Rabuth, drawing off of such a large glutton was like attaching a balloon to a fire hose, and that was before enticing Tirath to eat more.*
Rabuth: Hehe... ehh... *like Masaru, he grew fuller and fuller from Azure chomping his way through draconic dishes, and was often offered a piece of the meal.*
*Lastly were the in-betweens, working with a gluttonous chef for the benefit and enlargement of a wide swath of the residents. Zaku worked with Rik to conjure up a feast, while coaxing the dragon to eat as well. Similarly Balor laughed with Demitris as they engaged in a bit of a symbiotic effort of boosted-conjuring of food, the consumption of which boosted Balor's powers, in turn allowing Demitris to eat more and make more. For his part, Shinko encouraged Cai to bask in the sunlight to amplify his own crop-growing prowess, all while getting him to eat some of the yield.*
Shinko: Mind your strength. That's how you do it... *he chuckled, benefitting from the harvest going into food, which in turn was given others such as Porcius and Azure. Whether this helped Masaru and Rabuth was... debatable. And lastly there was the grumpy Baphormisith who, after some coaxing, managed to find some camaraderie in Guraeth and Talfryn.*
Baphormisith: You know, I wanted to keep my figure for a bit. *swelling as he says this*
Guraeth: You say this, and yet you're doing as they are. *points to his glowing horns as he tears into a leg of cooked meat*
Baphormisith: Well you could resist more! I'm barely doing anything here!
Talfryn: *sweat drops, idly munching on a sandwich.* Oh no, the two dethroned rulers are commiserating.
Baph&Guraeth: Shut it, birdbrain!

Erik: *looks to think* In the long term, what I can to help Gill, which I believe helps both of you from the sound of it. This means I'll be catching up with the others when I return home. In the short term, more activities with you all, and more research to answer questions I have. *pauses* There is one I know not ask without good reason. *And as far as he knew, he lacked it. Luke was forthcoming with information about the World Government and its navy... and what they did was a motive for both Gill and Luke to be against them. He could work with that without knowing every detail about who the brother was: what mattered was what they were going to do now.*

*The surprise of the group only continued as Gill leapt off from a great height.*
Vinari:...
Korigen: You alright there?
Vinari:.... I mean, it was a bit sudden and I'm used to jumping of my own accord, not being carried down. *shudders.*
Korigen: *snickers* Do you require a parachute?
Vinari: Shut up. *huffs*
Rinui: Hm, this is a well made ship to resist an impact like that....
Sirius: R-really Gill, I'm just here to talk. *eyes his group* Ok, and I came prepared because I didn't know where you were heading and whether that would entail joining in a brawl. *Although, there is a slight wagging of the tail when he sniffed the food being brought out*
Stirix: *sweat drops and grimaces* I do not know whether to be offended or honored. We've said several times we mean you no harm at the house. That hasn't changed. Quite the contrary in fact.

Interestingly enough, Lit Gill went around observing everyone's actions, remaining quiet and nodding to himself like an instructor. He didn't add anything, food or words, and simply observed the demons as they partnered up with Atherusians and did their thing.

Merc Luke: *the tarot card vanishes* Hmm. At least you have an idea of what to do for now. I'm glad to hear that. Still, you need to watch your back, before a bounty goes out for you too...Actually...Gill is...The Star Arcana, I believe? Perhaps ask him what his goal is, why he even became a pirate in the first place. It should give you some insight.

Barn: Oh! Okay then. Welcome aboard!
Simon: No wait! What if it's a telepathic mind trick to lower our guards!
Barn: What!? Is that true!?
Mentah: Sit down, Simon. Or Gill is gonna eat your share again.
Simon: Hey! Gill, don't you dare touch my food!
Kiba: *walks over to the naga archaeologist* Say, aren't you...
Rodah: Rodah. The pleasure is all mine. *smiles*
Darro: Gill! Hands off the ladle! You eat what you're served!
Merc Gill: Aw come on! Please?
Mentah: If you steal my food again, it's gonna cost you!
Brack: *is already eating* So what did you off-worlders want with Gill anyway?
Kiba: *turns to the individual next to Ryugami. He looked like a cross between an otter and a salmon.* Hmm...

Merk: *seems pleased that Gill appears entertained, and hopes that it extended to the Creator as well*
Gaius: Grandpa, we need to speak.
Merk: Eh? Did you find something?
Gaius: We did, *pulls him off to the side to begin explaining what happened during the information gathering*
*For the most part, demon and partner continued what they were doing, whether it be a genuine effort at being a gluttony demon with subtle and not-so-subtle tricks to influence the partner into eating more to a more cordial, almost festive, meeting to a mutually beneficial agreement whose magnitude stretched far beyond just the demon and cook.*
Gallus: Hey, what’s the mood over here? *approaches Baphormisith and the others he was with, with steins of fizzing liquid in hand, belly wobbling and bouncing, and the company of feasting warriors at his back* It’s a feast! Try to lighten up a bit.
Talfryn: Eh, pass.
Baphormisith: No.
Guraeth: I’m fine as is.
Gallus:… Please? Just one drink?
Gamus: I agree! You all can probably regale us with tales of your exploits.
Baphormisith: *grumbles and growls*
Gamus:… Well, you don’t mind if we stick around here, do you? *smiles as he strides up to Baph, patting his swelling gut which seemed to respond to the presence of the newcomers* We can be pretty persuasive, if you give us time.
Baphormisith: *grunts before belching* Hmph, where you eat is none of my concern.
Gnash: Aw, didn’t you read the memo? It should be all of your concern!
Porcius: *sees Gallus and company* Oh! It looks like uncle’s throwing a mini-party! *grabs Masaru by the arm* Let’s go!
Masaru: H-h-hey! Whoa! L-let me acclimate to-meep! *he already seemed to struggle to keep up with the power surge from the hog’s binge, only to be dragged to a meeting of hogs*
Arisar: *eyes the display, munching on some oats while turning to Dariann* Shouldn’t you… y’know, be going to a crowd or something like them?
Dariann: *is potbellied and still growing, slowly* And be smoothered by all of their gluttony? Where is the logic in that? You see some of the others struggling to keep up with the influx of energy. *points to the growing green orbs that were Ludovic and Rabuth respectively, both their dragons being fed a steady stream of food from one of the two demon-powered cooks and one crop booster.*
Arisar: *chuckles* You’re looking for logic in this scenario?
Dariann:… Well, if we must, we can see how the others are fairing. *shrugs* Shinko’s tactics intrigue me, and it seems Zaku and Balor seek to emulate them. Meanwhile, Sarkon and Jera would appear to have failed in abstaining from this “scenario” while Mega and Falchurok have reasonably succeeded through sheer… indifference? *shrugs* I mean, one is engaging in a meal with his friend while the other appears to be enjoying beverages by the barrel with his friend.
Arisar: Eh, it’s a start. You’re at least being nosy about what else is going on.

Erik: *nods* I’m not going to rush into this, though I do acknowledge we’re on a bit of a time limit here. *nods again* I’ve been hunted before. It usually belies a group of people having more pride than sense. *The words didn’t seem to come from overconfidence. Perhaps more calm resolve mixed with past experience. He looked to think* He is of the Star Arcana, yes. I thought his goal was to have a sparring match with you but…*That was before he knew of some… additional motivation.* to your point, it may be beneficial to ask more directly what his goal is. Sirius should be speaking with him now, or at least is tracking him. If it doesn’t come up, or Gill’s… reluctant to answer for Arcanic reasons, I’ll know what to ask next time. *prepares to leave*… Also, it may be fair to warn you to watch your back as well. I do not know the extent to which you’re entangled with the World Government, but… I think we’ve established they might not care much for someone standing in their way. *As far as he knew, Luke was a contact in the Merc Guild, where the World Government could issue bounties and further their appearance of law enforcers. He wouldn’t find out how deep that entanglement went until he returned home.*

Stirix: *looks like he wished to facepalm* Oh dear.
Sirius: Well, I just wished to speak with Gill. In private, if possible.
Rinui: *observes Kiba, and takes note of the otter-salmon. He pondered briefly if he or anyone at the house had seen the individual before, given they had been introduced to Gill’s crew in the past.

Lit Gill: *claps his hands loudly* Okay class! I think I've seen enough. *actually dispels all the demon magic in the surrounding area, removing everyone's enhanced hunger and making the magically-conjured food vanish in puffs of smoke* ...So it would appear that gluttony to you guys is essentially overeating and overindulgence on all things edible. But! It ain't all it is. Oh no no no, it's so much more than just making your target indulge in more chicken legs or another tankard of ale.
Hiro: I'm beginning to worry where this is going...
Lit Gill: Let's start with a little bit of philosophy. What are the three desires that all creatures possess? Eating, f*BEEP*, and sleeping.
Tech Lyle: You have the NSFW filter on?
Lit Gill: Yeah, but that's not the point. We'll ignore f*BEEP* and sleeping for now, and focus on eating. Now why do we call food sustenance?
Hiro: We need it to sustain ourselves?
Lit Gill: Right! We need sustenance to nourish ourselves. We require it to live, to exist. Now...Gluttony is the innate desire to fulfill that need. What happens if it goes unheeded? Especially overtime...

Merc Luke: *chuckles* I've been in the navy for a very long time, Erik. Trust me when I say, I don't leave trails behind. But...That sparring match may've just been a pretext to fight me for real. He's always had that drive in him. And honestly? I respect that.
*For a little while, Luke grows quiet before he takes out what looks like a communicator of some sort*
Merc Luke: ...This wretched thing. If things continue as they have, I may have to use it. *shows it to Erik* It's an alert signal to navy HQ. The moment I activate it, it will tell them to send as many as 10 battleships to my current location. It's...The same thing used to destroy Rodah's home. *sighs as he puts it away* I'm somehow still a navy admiral after... *shakes his head and lets out a laugh* Let me just say this final thing. The alert signal? It's the only way, currently, to make one of those damned World Government founders show up. Nepotism put him in as a fleet admiral, you see. The only one higher up in rank than me. And I'd love the chance to "accidentally" put him out of commission. Permanently...

Merc Gill: We can talk later. *starts stuffing his face with food*
Darro: And besides, why do you need it private? Something you don't want the rest of us to hear?
Brack: *intentionally nudges one of his sword sheathes as he eats* ...
Barn: Is this one of those telepathy tricks Simon was talking about?
Rodah: No, he's just thinking too hard again, dear. Now come and eat, you don't wanna get left behind.
Alwen: By the way, have we charted a course for a new destination yet?
Mentah: Not yet. We don't have any leads regarding that thing Tatsu mentioned.
Kiba: Tatsu. *looks at the otter-salmon* I knew you looked familiar. You joined the Red Flame pirates?
Tatsu: Indeed I did. I owe a debt to Gill, and I intend to give my all to the crew for as long as they want me.
Ryugami: Heheheheh! Yep, our newest member is fitting in already! Oh, but how do you know who he is?
Kiba: ...Ah, my boss told me about him.

*There was a mixture of confusion and relief once Gill dispersed the magic going on with the mini feast. Confusion as some of the demons appeared to genuinely have fun, interacting with each other. Relief as some of them bit off more than they could chew.*
Shinko: *nods* More or less. It could be said we each approached gluttony in a different way.
*They listen to Gill’s explanation, though some of the more serious members appear apprehensive.*
Dariann: I mean… this filter… most everyone here is an adult you are aware?
Porcius: Well technically we’re helping kids though.
Shinko: To answer your question, or at least attempt to, starvation can result.

Erik: *nods* Well, it’s just two individuals who are used to covering their tracks giving each other advice. Even if I’m somewhat retired. *smiles* I can see the logic in that, now that you mention it. *thinks for a moment as Luke takes out the communicator and explains what it is* I… see. *nods* Well, that time may come soon. *pauses*… Okay, it will have to come soon if we’re going to help out Gill. I’ll reconvene with my allies at the house. They should have some effective starting points. *nods with a small smile* Certainly enough to start putting together a trap.

Sirius: I… see. Err, I didn’t mean…
Vinari: *growls* How many times-
Rinui: Ahem. This is a sensitive matter discussed while Gill was ashore last night, one that may be best discussed privately.
Sirius: … Right. Suffice it to say it’s a follow up on a matter discussed last night. *shrugs* If he wants to talk about it with you all, that’s probably fair.
Rinui: *nods* And you have a new crew member with a new quest? *looks between Tatsu and Kiba* May I ask who he is? And is it too soon to ask about this debt?

Lit Gill: *nods* For the next exercise, try and knock me down. But you can only use Gluttony, so no touching me, no throwing a fireball or a punch, try and bring me to my knees.

Merc Luke: Well...I dunno if the trap will even work right. The only way they'll come out is if someone like Gill is cornered. And I'm the only one who can convincingly do that, and that also involves calling those 10 battleships. The army that comes with is going to be huge...

Merc Gill: *gulp* Wait, are you talking about that World Government warning?
Mentah: WHAT!? What warning!?
Merc Gill: Oh, they said they're watching me now.
Mentah: ... *drops the utensils* Giiiill, why didn't you tell us right away!?
Merc Gill: I didn't think it was that big a deal. Ya gonna eat that?
Simon: *drops his glass, which clatters on the deck* ...Okay, new plan. Let's fake our deaths.
Brack: Like that's gonna work. If they're pointing their swords at us, I say we do the same.
Simon: Nooo! Are you crazy!? No, don't answer that. Of course you're crazy!
Mentah: Now what are we gonna do!? We gotta throw them off our backs somehow!
Merc Gill: *proceeds to sneak bites off of Mentah's and Simon's plates* Heheheheh...
Rodah: Don't worry, you guys. It'll work out, I'm sure.
Barn: R-really!? But those guys have a lot of...Guys.
Alwen: So? We faced those kinda odds before.
Tatsu: *looks at Sirius' team* Well about that. I am indeed a new crew member. Gill rescued me from imprisonment.

*Surprisingly, only a few of the demons gathered looked like they were on board with that idea.*
Rabuth: Alright!
Sarkon: A-are you sure about this?
Jera: I…must agree with Sarkon’s reservations. That feels like an escalation to just below torture, if that. *They clearly knew how to use Gluttony to achieve this… whether it was the right thing to do was… debatable.*
Baphormisith: …I want it on the record he asked for this first.

Erik: *nods* It will, if we plan accordingly. I agree that the army will be huge, which is why we should avoid directly confronting all of them. If we could confirm their planned route we could ambush them, perhaps box them in to prevent their escape, if they even consider that an option. *looks uncertain* The one part of the plan I’m unsure how to proceed with is Gill. Cornering him naturally seems unlikely, given his ability to flee, and it gives us little time to form an ambush if it does succeed. Informing him of the plan might cause him to try and expedite it… *grimaces* And… I gather there aren’t many like him who the World Government would send their leaders out for?

Sirius: …I mean, I think you’re proving why we probably should have discussed this privately, but alright it’s in the open now. Yes, he’s being watched now apparently, although why he wasn’t before is one thing I wanted to ask about, given you all will probably agree the level of destruction he’s engaged in should’ve got their attention, oh I don’t know, at the first prison break? Or one of the other times he razed a structure to the ground? Or-
Korigen: *sweat drops as Sirius goes on his tangent, tilting his head to Tatsu* A new crew member?
Rinui: Oooh, rescued from imprisonment. How intriguing! It must have been quite recent too; we haven’t seen you around the house with the others.
Sirius: *still on his rant* Seriously, what changed? Why are they suddenly after you now?
Vinari: …Hey, new guy. What did they put you in prison for?

Lit Gill: *nods* Oh, I'm sure. I need to assess everyone's skills to see if you understand the importance of Gluttony in life.
Hiro: Gill.
Lit Gill: I'm sure. It's on record, I'm asking for it.

Merc Luke: There are very few in the world that they would consider an existential threat like Gill. And...Concerning Gill, I could always just meet with him and then use the alert then and there. Simplicity that even he can understand. But...I think we are close enough. Barely. I will inform you when I'm ready.

Merc Gill: Hmm? I thought it was obvious. They were scared of dad. They didn't see me, they just saw who I was related to. I wasn't Gill, I was the Creator's son. What I did was just an extension of dad, he wanted his entertainment, a good show. *glares at Sirius* Do you have any idea what it feels like to have your father's shadow swallowing up everything about you?
Tatsu: ... *turns to Vinari when Gill goes back to eating* I uncovered something while investigating the World Government. They destroyed the evidence shortly after my imprisonment.

*Both the more serious demons appeared hesitant about this strategy.*
Sarkon: *sighs* If you’re sure…
Baphormisith: *nods, and with a glow of the horns, he casted a powerful blast of magic toward Lit Gill. It was an attack targeted at the contents of his stomach, making them disappear into the ether. His hunger would also spike, potentially making it feel like he hadn’t eaten in days… then weeks… then months…*

Erik: *nods* Understood. *tilts his head* Huh…if that’s possible sure. *nods once more* Likewise. We still have reconnaissance to collect in order to prepare. *with that he turned to leave*

Sirius: *blinks* They were? Past tense?
Rinui: Implying they aren’t anymore. Which again begs the question: why would they no longer fear the Creator?
Korigen: …I do not know if I wish to hear the answer to that.
Sirius: …*scoffs looking away* No.
Vinari: Eh? Ah, so you got a peak behind the curtain? You saw the stuff they don’t want the rest of the world seeing.
Korigen: *looks between Sirius and Gill* If I may, that could be the difference. The World Government may see loose ends they’ve failed to tie up. Not critical enough to warrant an immediate assault, not insignificant enough to ignore. Therefore, they respond with bargaining, with the threat of an escalation.
Sirius: …

Lit Gill: *takes the attack without defending himself* ... *a moment passes, then two* ...Ah. *smiles* This feeling. This hunger, I know it well. But still, so shallow of an understanding. Here's a tip...It works much better if you experience starvation firsthand. Shall I give you a demonstration?
*Demonic tattoos manifest on his body as he snaps his fingers. The demons all feel a stinging pain in their guts for a split second. Suddenly, they feel it. The intense hunger begging them to eat. But not just that.*
Lit Gill: Can you feel your strength draining drop by drop? How your limbs feel heavy like lead? How your core is sapping away your ability to move until you're rooted to the ground? How your eyes can barely stay open as sleep tantalizes a momentary respite from the pain? Now THAT is true hunger. That is the hunger of a Gluttony demonlord. *he stops the curse on everyone, who may or may not have fallen to the ground from it*
Koryu: Halt, fiend! *jumps in front of Gill wearing a full-body diving suit*
Lit Gill: ...Uh, what are you doing?
Koryu: I'm stopping your reign of terror! For I... *strikes a pose* Am a hero of Justice!
Chesh: Just go along with it. He never got to fight a demon before.
Lit Gill: Oh! Muwahahahaha! You!? A puny creature dares to oppose me? The audacity!
Koryu: I will not allow your evil ways to continue any longer! *raises his fists* Now, come and face justice!

Merc Akira: *is outside the room with Erik's teammates* Are you done in there? I got some stuff from my room.

Merc Gill: *shrugs* I don't care what they do. I'm gonna beat them up sooner or later.
Mentah: Gill...Where is all my pasta?
Merc Gill: *immediately turns away* Um...Maybe you dropped it.
*Mentah immediately begins pounding on Gill, who brings his arms up to defend himself. Rodah starts laughing as he watches while Simon starts crying upon realizing his food had been taken as well.*
Barn: I'll get the bandages ready.
Tatsu: The World Government is highly secretive. But at the same time, they can't help but flaunt how they are higher than all others. That is why they blatantly travel by slaves, despite slavery being outlawed by the navy. They have even experimented with bioweapons and robotics. And worst of all, if members of their own family develop an inkling of humanity, they are quick to stamp it out. Even banish or outright kill them.
Merc Gill: *has a black eye and several head bumps* Yeah! They're total jerks.
Darro: *passes out more food* At least that's only according to what Tatsu managed to overhear from those founder guys. We don't have any proof, of course. Except for the slaves part, that's kind of an open secret.
Alwen: Pretty sure Gill's bro knows more about them, but he's super tight lipped about it.

Baphormisith: *growls though grunts as well. He and the rest of the demons are severely impacted by the curse. Some of them did collapse, others proved a bit more resilient. And through it all the, goat still had an attitude.* Hmph.
Rabuth: Ugh *picks himself off the ground* alright, a straight Gluttony match with you is unwise. Got it.
Dariann: *sweat drops* In… our defense, we spend much time on the other side of the spectrum I suppose.
*Everyone was visibly confused when Koryu joined the group*
Sarkon: I’m sorry, who are you again? Have we met before?
Jera: He might have been at the city but not at the house.
*Still, the others seemed prepared to listen to Chesh, if only because some had no idea who the hero was.*

Erik: *nods* I am. We can head back now, or you can meet us back at the house if you have other matters to attend to here.
Kelvin: Was the meeting beneficial at least?
Erik: *nods* It was.

Korigen: Is… is this a common occurrence? *sweat drops at the display between the crew and Gill*
Vinari: *shrugs* Hey, give the guy a medal. He landed punches on Gill. *looks back to Tatsu, grimacing* Yeesh, that’s…bad.
Sirius: Gee, it’s as if we can operate better with a fuller picture of who they are. *eyes Merc Gill*
Rinui: *rubs his forehead* Sirius, I think you’ll agree sarcasm does not aid us here. *looks between Darro and Tatsu* Still, from their response, it would appear they have some secrets they wish to remain as such. And though they did manage to get rid of the evidence against them, perhaps they were concerned Tatsu might have more, or the capability to get more.
Vinari: That’s… still speculation though, isn’t it?
Korigen: Well, apparently they’re not shy about killing. Imprisonment to individuals like this is usually just a way of keeping someone they need alive but silent.
Rinari: *nods* Suffice it to say, we are trying to help here, and have other teams working to gather intel.
Sirius: … *looks to think about something, muttering* Will he have better luck?

*Koryu and Lit Gill get into a fist fight, but it was clear that Koryu had the experience of a civilian in a bar fight. While Gill was more likely to have fighting skill, he was holding himself back as the two traded random punches, slaps, and even kicks with each other*
Hiro: Koryu is a member of Ultimate Despair, and a former human from a past Fused World iteration. He lives on as a soul soldier in Chesh's tail.
Chesh: Soul soldier. Souldier. Soul...so-oul-dier.
*The two take a few minutes to eventually tire each other out, right before Koryu delivers a slow but flashy uppercut. Gill makes a show of being knocked onto his back, and Koryu strikes another pose.*
Koryu: Justice...Is served!
Hiro: Did you have fun?
Koryu: *takes off his head part, shaking his head fluff around* Yeah! It was awesome!
Chesh: Cool! Let's go grab some milkshakes.

Merc Akira: Nah, I'll be alright. It's just some stuff I didn't grab last time to fill out my room with. If we're done here, we can get going. *starts heading to the door*

Alwen: Oh yeah, it's more common than you think. Gill's our captain, but he's not...Got all his screws tightened in his head.
Mentah: *dusts his hands* Now, about the World Government business. You guys are here to get more info about them, right?
Barn: *is patching up Gill* Hey, if you guys are allies, we should be working together, right?
Tatsu: Hmph. I assumed such, which is why they kept me alive to figure out any other pieces of evidence I may have had at the time. But then again, I am not so easily killed.
Ryugami: *places an arm around Tatsu* Tatsu here's a water spirit! From the same village, too! I knew he was always a toughie, and now we can fight together under the same flag!
Kiba: Oh! Good for you two.

Sarkon: *grimaces* Oh. Joy.
Jera: So we haven’t met, for obvious reasons. *watches the fight take place.* Honestly… his dedication to justice is the surprising bit. *shrugs*
*Still the fight went on without issue, and they watched as Gill was knocked to the ground*
Rabuth: Hey, our hero!
Sarkon: …Yeah.

Erik: *nods* Let’s head home then. *regroups with his team before heading out to begin the journey home to relay the intel with the rest of the group*

Korigen: Ah… I see.
*Everyone elected to let the screw loose comment slide.*
Sirius: Yes, yes we are. *nods* And yes, we’re open to working together.
Rinui: Oh, how interesting. I certainly does seem like fate that you should be able to work with someone from the same village.
Sirius: I agree. *looks to think* So they took all the evidence you had on them already? *ponders how close Tatsu was to… well in hindsight he actually may have been safe from execution. The imprisonment may have been because killing him would be difficult. Still, he came around to agree with the hypothesis that the World Government was becoming more aware of Gill’s actions and how close he was to having access to information that could be used to harm them.*

*While Chesh and Koryu get milkshakes from one of the chefs, Hiro simply nods as Gill gets up.*
Lit Gill: That guy is pretty fun to play with. Now then, *turns back to the demons* Shall we keep playing until Erik gets back?
Tech Lyle: Yeah, about that. Merc Lyle sent a text that Erik's party just left the Guild.
Hiro: Why is he keeping you up to date?
Tech Lyle: Does it really matter? He's just thinking of his dear brother and making sure his best friends remain in the know. Ain't that right, Merk?

Barn: Great! We got more allies to work with!
Tatsu: That's right, I'm afraid. It's just my word against theirs now. But soon, they will falter, I am sure of it.
Merc Gill: More food please!
Rodah: I suppose if and when they make a move, we could send a distress signal of our own to all our friends.
Merc Gill: Oh yeah! It worked at navy HQ.
Alwen: Hey, setting something like that up will take time!

*Some of the demons shake their heads vigorously, mostly Masaru and Rabuth, who went from getting stuffed with food and energy from their gluttonous marks to experiencing extreme hunger from Gill’s curse. Dariann seemed to not mind either way while Shinko looked ready to rejoin Cai.*
Merk: *blinks* Err, yes. That’s likely it.
Gaius: Agreed.
*Both presumed Tech Lyle had asked his Merc counterpart to keep him informed. It was probably for the best, all things considered.*

Sirius: Hm…*nods* As has been implied, they may be getting concerned. *his ears perk up* Wait, what? Distress signal?
Rinui: …And you’ve used this before? At a holding of the World Government no less.
Korigen: Well, there’s an interesting bit of information.

Lit Gill: *pouts* ...Well, magic is like a muscle. Keep working on it, and you'll improve overtime. And remember, Gluttony is a way of life. Don't forget to indulge regularly.
*Erik's team returns by now as Lit Gill wanders towards the P-balloon. And he starts tugging on the Shadow tether.*
Merc Akira: Gill, what are you doing?
Lit Gill: Just testing the strength of it.

Merc Gill: Oh yeah! So many friends ran over to help! We saw Chandy, and Bonbon, and even Noah!
Kiba: *goes into thought* ...Who?
Mentah: Hey Gill, are you sure about just blurting their names out like that?
Rodah: I think it's fine. Two of them are nicknames he came up with a long time ago, anyway.
Kiba: Wait...I know them. They're your allies!?
Merc Gill: Uhuh, we're friends!
Kiba: ... *turns to Sirius* those three are really big names in the world. That much I can tell you.
Tatsu: I must admit, even I was surprised to learn Gill had friends in such lofty places.
Ryugami: Why would you? Just who can resist this bundle of joy? Hahahaha!
Barn: Yeah, Gill is an amazing person. Only a total jerk wouldn't like him.
Brack: It's why I pledged my swords to him.
Simon: Well, I taught him everything he knows, after all.
Kiba: *chuckle* You have a tight knit crew, Gill...

Jera: …*nods* That is a fair statement.
Shinko: *snickers rubbing the back of his head* Does this mean we can still hang out with our partners?
Rabuth: Eh, p-pass for now-oof! *snatched up by Azure*
Azure: Aw, c’mon! You haven’t tried dragonfire steak yet!
Rabuth: …Help me, I don’t like spicy food.
Porcius: *chuckles* What about you, Masaru?
Masaru: …*belches loudly creating a gout of flames* Eh, what the heck, I think I or Gill made some room. Let’s go.
Porcius: Yes!
*The tether meanwhile was fairly strong. It held the P-balloon within a radius… but the wind could still push it however it pleased.*
Aeryn: Hm…*decides to give it a little gust in Gill’s direction*
*Meanwhile Erik left his group to go meet up with Merk and share info.*
Merk: Ah, shall we head to the briefing room then?
Erik: *nods* We should.
Merk: Alright, *brings Gaius along to the house* He can help fill in the pieces I may have missed.

Vinari: …Seriously, who are they? Have we met them.
Rinui: Ehhh, I agree with Mentah on this one. If Gill used nicknames, that’s probably for the best.
Korigen: *nods* You know not which walls have ears, you mean?
Rinui: Essentially. Let’s just take this as an advantage we have in our plans.
Sirius: …Ok, but you said you’d need time to prepare? If we could get you some additional information, would that help? That’s essentially the stage we’re at currently; devising a way to fight them. Depending on what the others have found, that could involve troop movements, approximate strength, and other details we could use to set up an ambush. If combined with the use of that distress signal…
Korigen: They’d find themselves in a much tougher fight than they anticipate.

Lit Gill: *gets bonked in the head by the balloon* Hm? Oh. *quickly inflates into a large balloon* ...I'm hungry. Hey, can anyone pass me those steaks?
*Interestingly, Gill was still holding onto the shadow tether and floated upside down, watching everyone going around. He began manifesting several imps, who proceeds to meticulously gather food and line up towards Gill's mouth like ants.*

Rodah: I highly doubt you've met them, so don't worry about it.
Alwen: I dunno how much help that would be, considering we win most of our fights by winging it.
Darro: A more organized fight would actually be a relief compared to all the random brawls we get into.
Mentah: I'm more interested in hearing how you'd get that information...

*The chefs were happy to provide food for Gill’s request, giving it to his imps to send his way. Meanwhile Erik and Merk were caught up on the present state of their inquiry into the World Government, along with the brewing strategy for taking them on and taking them down. All that they needed was the report from Sirius and see what his intel could add to the strategy*

Rinui: Hm, understood.
Korigen: Fair point, but this could be tougher than what you’ve faced before. *shrugs* Emphasis on might, as we don’t know what they’ll be using currently.
Vinari: Meh, we leave that stuff to the tech guys.
Sirius: *sweat drops* To answer your question, it depends on how much information is communicated between sections of the navy. Information such as troop and supply movements should at least have orders sent and received between where troops originate and the destination. *he looked to think* Although I will admit some information may be more closely guarded at an individual location, especially if it does not need to be sent somewhere else for any reason.
Vinari: Short version, we might be able to pick up stuff sent between bases that involves them organizing. Stuff like vulnerabilities might be more compartmentalized however.

*While Lit Gill weighs himself down with food, Chesh and Koryu start chatting and catching up with the rest of the Creator's kids, along with the Vassals too.
Hiro: You don't get out much, huh?
Koryu: Nah. Only because this guy forgets to let me out from time to time.
Chesh: Hey! I resent that!
Shadow Lyle: Uhuh. Well as you can see, there are no zombies in this place, unless you're talking about undead type monsters.
Koryu: Heheh, that's fine. I had my fun during the apocalypse. I have no regrets.
Lit Gill: Mmm. How do you guys make the steak so tender? *is visibly swelling up and dipping lower to the ground*
Koryu: ...That actually looks like fun.
Chesh: I'm pretty sure we went ballooning at some point.
Koryu: Yeah, but not as the balloon!

Mentah: Well that's pretty handy!
Tatsu: I take it we have a plan, then?
Brack: All that's left is the timing.
Alwen: Super! So we can relax until then!
Merc Gill: Yeah! Party!
Mentah: You guys are too laid back!
Barn: Yeah! Overeating can really upset your stomachs!
Kiba: I don't think there's much else to gain by sticking around.

*The others appeared content to let Chesh and Koryu chat with the Creator’s kids and Vassals*
Vance: …Are we dull?
Takumo: Hm? How do you mean?
Vance: Well, I imagine that whole fight before was to entertain the Creator, and Chesh of course, and we tend to act like Chesh is a threat all the time.
Takumo: Eh… not without reason. Although it does feel like you need someone around to point out what is an actual threat we need to take serious and what’s… I suppose just fun? I’d say don’t think too hard on it.
Baruk: Hehe, that’s a trade secret!
Kagara: Pretty such the spices are sources from volcanic regions for their intense heat.
Jera: …I mean, I’m fairly certain you could go and touch the balloon if you felt like it.

Sirius: *nods* It helps to know how to fight the enemy. It’s far from the perfect solution, and I imagine the others have taken steps to avoid alerting the navy to our inquiry. Otherwise we may be “winging it” as you say.
Vinari: Eh, let’s be honest: there’s gonna be an element of that. How much of an element depends on how much we can learn between now and the battle, and how we can implement it.
Korigen: *facepalms* Just… make sure you’ve done any preparations you need for the distress signal, as well as any others.
Sirius: *nods to Kiba* Likely no. *looks to think, perhaps finding the meeting more beneficial than he originally believed it would* Let’s get going then.
*Stirix flies in close to allow the group back onto his back.*

Koryu: ...Okay. *goes over and pats the balloon, and quickly swells into a large cheshire cat balloon* Heheheh.
Lit Gill: Hey there, good lookin'.
Chesh: Well, Jera, good job. You made one of my followers lighter than air. I hope you're proud of yourself.
Koryu: *begins to float around the courtyard* This is so cool!
Lit Gill: Yeah! Hey, did Erik get back? I think he's in the house, right? Why isn't he out here with us?
Chesh: Probably because he's too much of a square to hang out with us.
Kiba: *As he climbs on Stirix and they start heading back* I wonder if you've learned anything from hanging out with them. *He mostly stays quiet after his remark as Stirix flies back to the house*
Koryu: *is floating about* I see something coming over here!

Jera: *shrugs* He expressed interest, and the Creator left an item that could facilitate that interest.
Gaius: *cracks open a window, before closing it* You might want to head out to keep appearances.
Erik: Perhaps…
Sirius: *glances back at Kiba, though says nothing during the flight back home, which seemed shorter than the trip out to the ship*
Altrios: *looks out when Koryu spots something* Ah, looks like Stirix is on his way back.

Kiba: I can feel the Creator's gaze on my back...
*They disembark shortly after Stirix lands on solid ground. And Kiba just stares at Lit Gill, now bouncing on the ground, apparently trying to gnaw on the shadow tether with his teeth.*
Half Wil: Gill, your teeth are not gonna break that thing.
Lit Gill: *is drooling on the tether* I can try!
Hiro: Hey, Sirius. How was your trip?
Chesh: *quickly approaches Kiba and whispers something into his ear*
Kiba: ...Ah, excuse me, fellas. *quickly disappears*
Chesh: *giggles to himself as he goes to play with Koryu*

Sirius: *tilts his head* Huh, just being nosy then?
*Meanwhile Jera sweat dropped, as the tether was indeed resilient to teeth and drool.*
Jera: I feel like this is why the wind bonked you on the head with the balloon… *glances at Aeryn, who gave a nonchalant shrug.* Why are you trying to break the tether now?
Sirius: *nods in greeting to Hiro* It was fine. The worst that happened was that Merc Gill got into a brawl with his own crew. *Honestly, he did seem relieved.* He’s still… himself, but I can say he was helpful *looks on as Kiba disappears. He doesn’t even get to comment when Seki approaches him*
Seki: Ah good, you’ve returned. The others are waiting in the main house.
Sirius: *nods* Understood. *looks back to Hiro* If you want more details, you’ll have to speak with the others that came with me… *shrugs* or Kiba, if he should return from whatever business called him away. *glances back at Chesh as he moves toward the house to brief the others*

Lit Gill: Because! I wanna test if the balloon has limits to its effect. So I'm gonna bop as many people as I can until it pops!
Merc Akira: *shakes his head* And what about the possibility that it doesn't?
Lit Gill: *looks to think* ...Then how about if it can double inflate someone.
Half Wil: Why not bonk yourself, then?
Lit Gill: Because I wanna see the effect happen in front of me! And it's not like we have a giant mirror hanging around.
Hiro: *watches as Sirius heads into the house* Gill, this feels like a weird way to spend your time. I'm sure it sounds like a fun activity and all- No! I'm not helping him break it!
Half Wil: Dad?
Hiro: Yep. I said no! I'm not gonna break...No, I'm not gonna willingly inflate myself either...Because I have a dinner date later tonight, and...Yes, I wanna look my best.
Merc Akira: You have a dinner date?
Hiro: Yeah, it's with Feral Gill. We're heading to the Fetish Group's Restaurant. What are you talking about lighter-than-air metal!? I'm not inflating!
*There's a hissing sound as a whole batch of yellow P-balloons descend onto the area.*
Hiro: *inhales* You're being quite childish, sir.

Jera: *heaves a deep sigh* I don’t know, perhaps the wind could bop you repeatedly.
Aeryn: Eh… the wind might feel fickle about that.
Sarkon: *sweat drops looking to Half Wil* Your father… really woke up and chose chaos today.
Takumo: Not sure that’s how the saying goes.
Sarkon: It feels like it applies in this situation.
*As the balloons descended, the courtyard cleared somewhat, mostly as those involved in some activity moved to conduct it elsewhere.*
Altrios: Hey, if it’s any consolation, the effect only lasts ten minutes. And I think we know Gill appreciates round individuals.

Merk: So that’s where we stand?
Erik: *nods* We know the basics about the World Government, and have the beginnings of a strategy to deploy against them: We organize a meeting between Luke and Gill. Luke uses the beacon to call forth the battleships;
Sirius: With the leaders of the World Government presumably leading the charge to fight Gill.
Gaius: But what they hopefully won’t know is that we’ll be waiting to ambush them on route. We cut off their escape, Gill’s crew uses their distress signal.
Merk: Then we rid the world of one more malevolent force.
Sirius: *grimaces*…That’s all fine and good. Are we sure Gill won’t trigger the plan early?
Gaius: Eh, I feel like his crew could keep him in check. Are we sure they’re going to want to work with Luke?
Sirius: *scoffs* Well between the two of them, Luke’s more reliable.
Gaius: *sweat drops* Perhaps. He’s also an admiral in the navy. And, not that long ago, he had a Palace. All I’m saying is we don’t normally work contacts in enemy groups that are that high up the chain. Informants and low-level turncoats maybe. And I have a hard time believing they don’t have any suspicions about Luke’s loyalty. *looks to think* I mean, the fact they recruited him even though they supposedly feared the Creator at one point. Doesn’t that seem odd?
Erik: *clears his throat* Boys, this isn’t an either or choice. This strategy relies on both of them being able to do what they say they can. And it relies on us being able to source those warships’ weakness before the battle. This is far from without risk, after all, and I’d rather use this team ensuring we have as many advantages as possible.
Gaius: *shrugs* Jamming their comms shouldn’t be too hard. That’ll impede their ability to coordinate. *looks to Erik* You don’t have any doubts about Luke though?
Sirius: …
Erik: *shrugs* If he meant to set a trap, he might’ve made it seem more feasible. As is, we still will have other heavily armed enemies standing between us and the leaders if we go with this strategy. Besides, he cares for his siblings. That much has been established repeatedly.
Merk: *nods* The God of Control took full advantage of that.
Erik: Furthermore, both he and Gill appear to support the fact Gill does have powerful friends. All we need to do is catch the leaders out in the open and force a meeting between the two.
Gaius: *sighs* If you say so. We’ll see what we can dig up about the warships next session, along with who these leaders are precisely. *pauses* Open conflict is still the emergency option?
Erik: *nods* It is. But it is also the option that requires significant care, and the one we need to prepare for.

Half Wil: He... *looks to see Chesh riding on Koryu* Okay, at least he's not influencing his decisions. *is bonked by a balloon* Nice try, dad! I'm Separated right now!
Hiro: *is rapidly inflating until he floats in the air* Eh, I'm not so lucky.
*Lit Gill is laughing as several Atherusians get caught, either because they stuck around or didn't move fast enough. These included Shinko, Porcius, BayonBelkin, and Rabuth.*
Lit Gill: Yay! Everyone looks so round like gumballs! *starts bouncing towards them, bumping them around*
Merc Akira: *is sticking close to Aeryn* ...So, what are the chances the wind will conveniently blow them all out of the place?

Monohebi: *peeks out of Erik's room* What are the chances Luke went to them to join them in the very beginning? It's doubtful they would scout Luke themselves. Oh! And Erik, I finished redecorating your room, no need to thank me.

Jera: Oh. Joy.
Sarkon: *shrugs* I’d… call that a win, honestly.
Jera: We… can agree to disagree.
Sarkon: Or have a debate later.
Porcius: Aw, I already floated around once.
Bayon: You see?! This is why we should’ve left with the others!
Belkin: But I was having fun!
Rabuth: I really can’t catch a break today…
Aeryn: Eh… hopefully close to zero? *sweat drops* I’ll err… call for Erik if it looks like that. He does seem preoccupied at the moment, but I don’t think he wants a repeat of yesterday *rubs the back of his head*

Erik: *looks to Monohebi* Hm… it’s not impossible. The navy may have had more credibility as a law enforcement agency in the beginning. *thinks a moment* Emphasis on “may”. From what Luke said, it doesn’t seem like the World Government founders were upstanding individuals to begin with. However, I suppose that doesn’t discount the possibility it was an extensive undercover operation if they knew it was already corrupt.
Gaius: Ok, but again how did he get promoted that high, and why are they still keeping him? I’m not sure I like a situation where the best case scenario is that he may be being watched and doesn’t realize it.
Erik: *grimaces* Then we try to ensure that isn’t our only option. It is currently the most direct approach, and depending on where they are in their plans for Merc Gill, we may need to use it. *glances back at Monohebi* You what? *sighs* Monohebi this… let me come and see. *looks back to the others* I don’t think we’re going to learn anything else from each other. *looks outside* Err… as you were I suppose. *makes a hasty exit to check his room*
Sirius: …*looks to Gaius* So, no more hacking for the day?
Gaius: *shakes his head* Blank was an invaluable member of the operation, and they may be preoccupied. Besides, the video we found may have triggered an alarm. I’d rather they settle down after potentially investigating a glitch in the system than create another glitch in the system.
Sirius: Fair enough.
Gaius: And you? Is more bonding on the docket?
Sirius: Oh hush. Gill’s crew was more helpful than Gill. *pouts*
Gaius: …And most of them wouldn’t be there if Gill hadn’t come crashing in.
Sirius: *grumbles* And he may have been captured a long time ago if not for his reflexes, as Luke said, and let’s be honest, the same crew wasn’t looking out for him. *turns away* I need some air. *looks out into the courtyard*… from the dojo. *leaves*
Gaius: *sighs*.
Merk: Oh don’t look so down. I feel you both raise valid points. Perhaps above all things, this risky strategy relies in large part on reuniting two brothers with different ideals. And different roles that stem from the same trauma, long ago.
Gaius: …I’ll see what other sites and communication lines make for potential sources of information we can use, but nothing more than that. We’ll do a more detailed effort at retrieving information later on. *glances back at Merk* If he is on our side, I think he’d agree we should put him at no more risk than he’s already in.

Lit Gill: Heheheh, bounce! *bounces towards the ballooned individuals, knocking several balloons around.*
*It looked like inflated individuals do not inflate any further from being hit by the balloons again, though their status does reset back to a full 10 minutes. While Gill is bouncing around, the balloons proceed to hit Cai, Baruk, Masaru and Baphormisith, causing the sky to gradually darken with the bloated forms of the ballooned individuals.*

Monohebi: Alright! Here's your new and improved room! *proceeds to show Erik the changes he made. Namely, the bed has been replaced by a giant red velvet cake, the floor is covered in what looks like chocolate chips and sprinkles, and a large hose was hanging down from the ceiling. Right next to the bed is, what appears to be, an entire bookcase made of gingerbread, but instead of books, it contains hundreds of vials of some bubbly yellow-green liquid.* Ta da! What do you think? *smiles at Erik expectantly*

*In the dojo, Sirius finds both Creator and Des, taking on the forms of two lions. The Creator was staying a step behind Des, mimicking all his movements while Des is using two crossbows to do some target practice.*

Jera: *sighs annoyedly* Alright, let me help the wind. *tosses a talisman towards Gill. If struck, he was weighed back down to the ground.*
Sarkon: *sweat drops* Getting a bit edgy?
Jera: Just helping him return beneath a blubbery rump.

Erik: Oh. *he does look starry eyed around the new space* Well this is… *nods* this is very nice I will admit. *tilts his head looking down at Monohebi* What brought this on though? I mean… I would like to think I’m trying to help the Creator, but we’re more in the progress of that at the moment. *blushes lightly as he looked like he was seriously considering just heading into his room right away*

Merk: Well, I should probably head back out there. It sounds like Gill may be getting antsy.
Gaius: Right, *chuckles* that’s a word for it. *nods* I have organizing to do before the next information gathering meeting.
*And with that, the meeting was completely adjourned as Merk went back into the courtyard and Gaius left to do some additional research*

Sirius: *glances at the Creator and Des, perhaps second guessing his decision to come to the dojo. It wasn’t dislike; just… an awkward feeling. Still, he mostly kept to himself, heading over to the punching bags and beginning to train.*

Lit Gill: *almost immediately is weighed to the ground, his bouncing stopped as he rolls to a stationary position on his belly* Boo.
Half Wil: We've still got a bunch of inflating yellow balloons floating around because of dad being a stubborn child.
Hiro: Actually, where is he, anyway? *floats towards the house, just as Merk walks out* Oh hey Merk. We've got a situation.

Monohebi: Well, I wanted you to know that I appreciate all the effort you put into helping Crey and his problems. See, the chocolate chips and sprinkles floor is made with a potion that becomes a vapor through contact with open air, causing a weight gain gas, ya just have to walk around a bit. The red velvet bed is actually made with a regenerating icing, in case you wanna eat it. The hose is connected to a tank of butter. Just butter. And the gingerbread bookshelf contains over a couple dozen bottles of tiny potions that will shrink you to about a foot tall.

*As Sirius does his training, it does appear like Crey and Des are either ignoring him, or simply didn't notice him. However, the latter didn't seem very likely as the pair continued to train. But it did appear like Des is the only one training, while Crey perfectly shadowed him from behind, copying every movement.*

Jera: *sighs exasperatedly* And he’s being helped, let’s be honest.
Sarkon: I… don’t know. Is he in the area?
Merk: I can see that. *sweat drops as he works somewhat quickly to try and isolate the movements of the balloons through barriers and tethers. He was a little more forceful in his attempts to control the balloons, pushing some out of the courtyard. Notably, he didn’t try to pop any of them, just prevent them from coming into contact with anyone else. He couldn’t even catch all the balloons, leaving some to twist and swerve at the end of a tether, potentially catching someone unaware.* I mean, I’m inclined to agree with Half Wil. However, I do feel relatively comfortable in saying the Creator may have a lot going on right now.
Jera: …
*Needless to say, those in the know were willing to agree with Merk as well. They might not all have known the full extent of the World Government’s crimes… but they knew they were a present threat being investigated, one that was old and highly proficient. And perhaps they knew the Creator was upset about it earlier.*
Merk: And you sir, *pokes Lit Gill’s side repeatedly* I feel like you’re trying to avoid being pinned beneath someone so you can cause more mischief!
Jera: …*sighs* Can we at least agree distracting a good swath of our forces and one of his Vassals does not help the situation?

Erik: *smiles* Aw, thank you. *looks around as Monohebi runs through what each of the new features did. He could feel his tummy rumbling, and the idea of laying in bed and constantly eating was appealing. He did look perplexed with the potions* Well this is all good, but how am I going to use the potions? *And then, inspiration hit him*… Actually, I may have to thank you. This room is giving me all sorts of ideas on how to deal with our latest problem. *clears his throat* Err, as well as a space to relax while working on how to bring them into reality. *Perhaps he didn’t wish to appear all business all the time.*

*Sirius did glance over at the two of them from time to time. Even if Des appeared to be the one training, he was no fool to think the Creator didn’t know how to fight or that he was only copying Des. To the contrary, the memory substantiating that he could, and quite proficiently at that, weighed heavy on the canine’s mind. Thankfully as time passed, it wasn’t as heavy as his bulk, which stopped his training at several points while he waited for it to settle. Still, his seemed adept at incorporating it in his routine, throwing forceful blows, yet maintaining a ferocious agility as he dodged out of the way before resuming the onslaught. All the while, his blubber wobbled.*

Half Wil: *shrugs* Still, isn't he redirecting his stress on us, which just hurts our efforts in dealing with the problem in the long run? I agree with Jera here.
*With most of the balloons tethered or walled off, they can at least stop randomly inflating more folks. Until one such balloon bumps into Tempest and adds him to the ballooned ones in the sky.*
Lit Gill: *squirms as Merk pokes him* Mmmph! I am not! I simply am exerting my dominance over the demons.
Hiro: *bumps into Rabuth* Yeah, you'll need to spell that out for us.
Shadow Lyle: And stop sabotaging the workers for my stand! They've barely set up the neon sign, I need an entire second stall, a whole band stage to announce my triumphant return, and a buffet table to attract money- er, uh, wallets- I mean, customers! Yeah, for the lovely customers. *gets bonked by a balloon and swells into a Lugia balloon* ...I hate you all.

Monohebi: No need to thank me, Erik. Now, how about we go spread these potions on all your friends and try to step on them until they pop like grapes? I'm sure the sheer Despair everyone feels will bring about a shining Hope to help you!

Crey: Shouldn't you have a stock of weight loss potions or something?
*It looks like the pair had stopped their own training and were now watching Sirius. For how long, though?*
Des: Your stance is too narrow. Widen your legs and twist your hips more, especially if you're gonna use that fat gut to guide your momentum.

Jera: *nods* See?
Merk: *sweat drops, as this inquiry put him in a somewhat awkward position of not knowing whether to push back against the Creator. Or at least, how delicate he needed to be in his pushback.* Well, do you think perhaps you can assist us in discussing this when he’s in the courtyard next? *It was a genuine ask for help for a genuine problem.*
Sarkon: I mean, your “assertion” is kind of spreading to everyone, based on what you did. And it seems like it would have kept them up in the air indefinitely had father not intervened.
Merk: *snatches Sarkon and Jera up with shadowy hands* Well! It’s a good thing I have two volunteers to help tame Gill while Hiro’s in the air. *food gets spawned in the air in mass. Steamed buns, cooked boars, noodles and other sweet, tangy and savory dishes were dangled above the pair*
Jera: *meeps* I-I didn’t agree to this-
Sarkon: Nor did I!
*Soon enough though they were fed the meals, transitioning slowly to them pigging out and swiftly to them swelling into a pair of blubbery demons.*
Merk: Hehe, come now, you really should assert your dominance in turn.
Tempest: *grimaces* Is that what we’re calling this?
Rufus: *sweat drops as he and his team moved the stand and their materials into the house when… events started happening* Oh let’s be honest, you probably would be up there if someone said we had Mina trapped in a dungeon beneath a spot within the original balloon’s movement range.
Dojin: …Dang that was a good prank. Why didn’t I think to try that?
Rufus: Besides, the effect is temporary. *eyes Merk* And we will be able to resume work momentarily?
Merk: *sweats further* Uh… maybe? *glances at Hiro* You really can’t tell where the Creator is?

Erik: *actually chuckles* I think you know we’re not doing that. *thinks a moment* But I am working to bring a large amount of Hope to the Fused World. How long it lasts… will depend I suppose.

Sirius: *meeps as his fur stands up from shock* I-I mean… yes? I just forgot to take one? *he felt somewhat embarrassed, though seemed receptive to Des’s commentary. He did widen his stance as he prepared to resume, though he paused* If I’m distracting you two, I can… err...*he was about to say go to the courtyard, but that place was heavily preoccupied. He cleared his throat again* I do have some research to do.

Hiro: Well, he has a general idea of what happens in the world, and he can experience our senses. But we can only do the same, kinda...If he wants us to know where he is. If he goes into hiding, it's pretty much a one-way situation. He sees us, but we can't see him.
Half Wil: *Is tying some rope to help the ballooned individuals from floating away* But you were talking to him earlier.
Hiro: Yeah, but it was only auditory. He's already cut the connection and hiding right now.
Lit Gill: *is watching Jera and Sarkon fattening up before him* ... *starts to drool a little*
Shadow Lyle: Hmph! I'm far too intelligent to be deceived by such a prank. I would have immediately figured out that you guys were lying with my superior-
Half Wil: Merk, you have an apple big enough to stuff in his mouth?
Shadow Lyle: HEY!

Monohebi: Oh...? *stares for a second* ...Ooooh! Erik, you're even more devious than my dear brother! Well, don't let me get in the way of your fun. *heads out of the house*

*Crey and Des glance at each other for a second, with Crey shrugging.*
Crey: There is a method to instantly earn the respect and admiration of Feral Wil. Simply pass the three trials of the OneSong.
Des: Survival, Wisdom, and Compassion. All three will absolutely test you beyond compare. But it will only work if you let go of any preconceived notions.
*With that, the pair walk out of the dojo without another word.*

Merk: Ah, fair enough. It sounded like that might be how it worked.
Dariann: So he causes chaos and then leaves?
Aeryn: I mean… that’s kind of a blunt way of putting it.
*Meanwhile Jera bloated into a behemoth of a fox demon, while Sarkon swelled into a humungous serpent demon. They gorged and grew casting a long shadow as they were hoisted above Gill…*
Merk: Oh! Say no more. *drops both Jera and Sarkon on Gill, smothering him in their collective bulk. He moves over to place a large apple in Shadow Lyle’s maw*

Erik: *chuckles* Ha… I’m not sure devious is the right word. *looks around* One things for sure; this’ll either bring a great deal of Hope or potentially result in a cascade of Despair. *He wasn’t ignoring the potential risks of the mission. Even if they found a way other than the one Merc Luke provided, that way may not have been less risky* Hm… well, for the moment, I think I’ve earned a small break. *With a mischievous grin and rumbling belly he headed into his room and shut the door…*

*Sirius paused, looking at the pair skeptically, perhaps because that piece of information came out of nowhere. He watched them leave, weighing his options. It was no secret he was mistrustful of Feral Wil… but he knew they needed allies, both for this latest trouble with the World Government and in future endeavors. With a small sigh, he left to see about giving Erik this new information so they could decide what to do with it.*

*Lit Gill, upon being smothered by two gigantic demon blobs, began wagging his fat stubby tail. Shadow Lyle starts letting out muffled curses almost immediately when Merk stuffed an apple in his mouth.*
Monohebi: *strolls out of the house* Heya party people! What's shaking?
Chesh: Hey! Come on up here, the view is fantastic.
*Monohebi joins Chesh on top of Koryu, their friend laughing as he floats along.*
Hiro: It's gotta be ten minutes already, right?
Merc Akira: I really hope dad- wait, no. Not gonna jinx it.

*With Gill placated by the gorging demons on top of him, Merk focused more on helping out Half Will with containing the situation in the courtyard. A few nodded to Monohebi in greeting.*
Aeryn: I’m… not going to finish your thought either.
Dariann: Would you like some wood to knock on? *tilts head* Is that still a practice mortals engage in to avoid jinxes?
*Still, many on the ground were watching the skies to see if those hit with the balloons would start deflating after… well ten minutes had passed since they were last hit.*

*Sirius meanwhile elected to make good on his earlier comment, seeking out Gaius to see if he needed any assistance with his research efforts. What the pair did was not too intensive, primarily identifying sites where they might learn more, acquire floor plans or schematics, and generally prepare as much as they could without physically visiting a building. After that, they checked for ways in and out of the more secured sections of the site. They didn’t speak on which brother they trusted more, perhaps realizing and accepting what they were doing would benefit either or both of them, when the time came.*

Merc Akira: Knock on wood, throw pepper over your shoulder, kiss some religious symbol, wear lucky socks, and so on.
Half Wil: I thought it's salt you throw over your shoulder.
Merc Akira: I'll throw an entire spice cabinet if dad doesn't randomly get a negative thought turn his mood for the worse.
Hiro: Oh yeah, I remember that happening twice.
*Interestingly, only some of the individuals deflate after 10 minutes pass, most likely because they were hit while inflated, the timer had reset so they had to wait a while longer. Sarkon and Jera actually feel Lit Gill deflate from under them.*
Koryu: *steadily deflating* Going down, fellas!
Monohebi: Oooh, we could've gone skydiving!
Chesh: We'd need parachutes for that, and where are we getting parachutes?

*Something they manage to dig up is a damage report from the high-security prison that Gill had infiltrated. Not only had there been extensive damage along all the floors, but over half of the cells had been destroyed with the breakout of the inmates, with an ongoing repair effort underway to restore the prison. They still have no idea how Gill infiltrated the prison to begin with, as his rampage began on the second floor.*

Dariann: I see. I was wondering if they still used those practices.
Aeryn: Well, we can hope at least.
Zaer: Eh, we’ll still try to help out by keeping him distracted. *sweat drops* Him and Lit Gill I guess.
Aethir: Oh, that should be easy!
Oryn: …You sound far too confident about this.
*Once individuals began to deflate, the food stopped spawning for Jera and Sarkon, their roles apparently fulfilled, according to Merk.*
Juzu: Hm, we could make parachutes if you’re that eager to try it out. We do have aerial training for those without wings after all.

*The pair were surprised at this find, though nonetheless optimistic about it.*
Sirius: They must be in a hurry, if we can find this by simply casing their websites.
Gaius: Well, this was a recent event from the sound of it, and it’s a PR nightmare considering how much they value their public image. *looks to him* A pirate breaking into and out of the high-security prison? It would beg the question if the navy is actually capable of its claims.
Sirius: *nods* At least we have a feasible place to visit in person. Their guard will be up, but there are more ways in and out. And because their guard may be up, there might be a greater naval presence there.
Gaius: *looks to think* Meaning we could get a make and model of ship they use, which could be traced back to a shipyard, not to mention there will likely be records for staffing, ammunition stored, weapons… *nods* Alright, so we have a few places of interest for our next digital operation. *pauses once more* Although… how did Gill get to the second floor for his rampage?
Sirius: *shrugs* He was shot out of a cannon?
Gaius: *chuckles* And here I thought you lost your sense of humor.
Sirius: *rolls his eyes* You thought it as well.
Gaius: *snickers* Well, if there’s anything to learn from that, it’s potentially to look for vulnerabilities where they aren’t expecting them. Still, that might be something to ask Gill about as well. There’s little use in speculation.

Half Wil: In all honestly, I'm glad Erik has a lot of friends. We need an entire distraction crew just for dad alone, and that's assuming he doesn't have a game or a dungeon for us to play with.
Hiro: Buuuurrrrp! *flops on the ground* Urrgh, I don't think it sat well with me. *gets up* Anyway, I'm gonna head out. I need to check if things are...Overall okay.
Lit Gill: *starts to chuckle as he spawns his own food and shoves it into Jera and Sarkon, fattening them up further*
Koryu: *turns to Juzu with sparkling eyes* Oooh, could you!? That'd be awesome!
Monohebi: I'd be up for some skydiving!
Chesh: And we can do our laundry while we're at it!
Koryu: Oooh, skydiving laundry ironing? That sounds cool! Let's do it!
Shadow Lyle: *is floating in their direction* Hey! Get me down from here!
*It looked like everyone was now doing their own things. With the balloons mostly under control and more individuals deflating, it was curious that the Creator hasn't shown his face again yet.*

Aether: *nods* I agree.
Aethir: Ooooh, we can discuss who’s on it later on!
Orynux: …I’m pretty sure the team’s members being flexible and interchangeable is important.
Zaer: So it’s less a team and more just grab who ever is available and has a skill we need?
Orynyx: More or less.
Merk: Well, depending on who Erikon wants to meet up with on a given day, I can see what activities I can come up with. *looks to think* Hm…speaking of… *glances around*
Altrios: *waves* Have fun with the other Gill, Hiro.
Rufus: *sweat drops as he and the others carry out the parts for Lyle’s stand* He’s still at it? *glances over at Jera and Sarkon*
Kagara: Eh, at least he seems calmer now, *smiles* Maybe those two will loosen up a bit too.
Juzu: *chuckles* Alright alright. *looks around the crowd* Korigen, do you think you could help with this?
Korigen: I’m busy.
Juzu: Doing what precisely? *tilts his head* I’m aware many of us are supposed to be on standby for something, but as far as I’m aware, that something isn’t happening yet. Could you provide assistance with a crafting project in the mean time? Please?
Korigen: …Fine, I’ll go and get Naxiu as well.
Juzu: *nods* Thanks. *looks up at Lyle* It’s fine, you’ll probably deflate momentarily.
Altrios: Hm… all this talk of the Creator, and we really don’t know where he is as his spontaneous activity appears to be coming under control.
Sirius: *exits the house with Gaius, after having wrapped up the web searching for the moment. They had their proposed targets, however they would have to wait for now. And the rat had encouraged him to come out and see about socializing and grabbing a snack*

*As Hiro heads out, Half Wil lets out a sigh as he sees Sarkon and Jera rivaling the size of the house, and slowly outgrowing it.*
Shadow Lyle: Oh you're so lucky you're all the way down theuuuUUURRRp! *deflates*
*With the chaos finally wound down and the inflated individuals deflating, Chesh, Monohebi and Koryu mention something about driving a jeep and head off into town.*
Merc Akira: *turns to Sirius* Hey Sirius. Have you seen Erik? We're kinda wondering if he's seen dad. It's kinda weird that he's stopped paying attention to what's going on here.

*Half Wil would find himself in good company, as some were frustrated with the Gill-aided chaos brought on by the balloons*
Juzu: Oh don’t be like that. We learned a lot today! Like how to pacify a Gluttony demon without divine water.
Kanjin: …And how to turn a scarred fox demon into a playful pup?
Merk: Eheh, well we always knew that. I thought he’d like a respite from his torment, and satisfying his sweet tooth just so happens to make Gill happy.
*With plops and thuds, those in the air gradually returned to the ground. Korigen looked confused after having gone and gotten Naxiu and prepared to make parachutes for the chaotic trio.*
Sirius: *tilts his head* Not since earlier, when our meeting ended. *looks to think* Monohebi said he’d done something to father’s room. I seriously hope he hasn’t been cleaning up this entire time. *glances in the direction the trio left in*
Gaius: Hey now, let’s not jump to conclusions. *looks to Akira* Suffice it to say, our dad’s likely not met with yours outside of this morning, unless he teleported to his room. I… do find that somewhat strange. *shrugs*
Sirius: Oh come on, he probably didn’t want to hear arguments on why leaving a balloon that inflates others in the courtyard was a…distraction, never mind swarming the courtyard with them. *turns to leave and find Erik*
Gaius: Eh… well there is that. But yes, outside of the bad idea-sorry “distraction” debate, I can’t really think of why he’d stop paying attention to the house when he’s normally quite curious. *looks to where Sirius left, knowing well when the wolf bit his tongue*

Half Wil: *looks at Juzu* I'm fairly certain you could pacify him by challenging him to an eating contest and just sneak out when he's not looking.
Shadow Lyle: *gets up rubbing his back* If fattening people is a general solution for calming down tormented folks, I think I prefer the crazy rampage fighting instead.
Half Wil: *walks over to Korigen and pats his back* Don't dig too deep about those three. They bonded in a zombie apocalypse, making use of every second is pretty much ingrained in them by now. So while they look for a jeep to joyride in, I bet they'll be pleasantly surprised with a set of new parachutes on their return.
*When the topic turns to Erik and his room redecoration, along with the Creator's apparent absence, the Group members seem to be in thought. Even Lit Gill stops feeding the pair of demons atop of him when they're a few feet larger than the house.*
Merc Akira: We could always try...Calling him. Unless he's really not paying attention, we could suggest something loudly and see if he'll pop up to chime in.
Half Wil: *watches Sirius leave* ...Hmm. Oh boy! I am feeling peckish right now.
Merc Akira: *looks around* ...I don't think food is gonna work this time.
Half Wil: Really? Well, I did have a hankering for yakisoba noodle bread. But the academy's cafeteria runs out of those real quickly.
Merc Akira: Or what about that cream soda back in the desert region? That's so good. Although that reminds me of the tikka masala we tried there.
Half Wil: Oh! And the seafood pancakes that were at the island resort. Remember those?
*there's a growl coming from Jera. Although one look showed a small white Joltik on his round sausage arm drooling.*
Half Wil: ...Of course, I bet dad wouldn't be interested if the Atherusians tried their hands at making these dishes.
Merc Akira: Yeah. I bet he's just busy doing something else right now.

Juzu: Ehhh… *shrugs* Would his imps allow you to leave? He does not seem shy about finding ways for you to stick around and play the food. *chuckles lightly*
Aethir: Hey, it’s worked for us! *laughs* Just look at these fine generals of torment we’ve pacified. *gestures to some of the individuals, Baphormisith among them*
Baphormisith: *grumbles*
Rufus: Well… let’s not confuse a solution with the general solution.
Korigen: *rolls his eyes* You overestimate how much I actually care. *looks to think* However, I can understand that mindset. And I did agree to a job. *shrugs* And I’d rather Juzu not spike my drink with one of Lyle’s wares. *He seemed indifferent about doing a job for Chesh and his allies. The knowledge that they might return for the skydiving seemed to work in tandem with his general principles…and his loyalty to his sibling.*
Gaius: Eh? You’re… sure that’ll… *shrugs* You know what, sure. He likes to spy, and he does have a habit of popping in to join in a conversation. *he was willing to let Wil and Akira attempt to summon the Creator.*
Selavra: Coming right up, good sirs!
*When the order was received, the chefs got to work on it. Before long there was a cut bun with steaming noodles with the scent of sauce wafting up from them. Rice topped with broiled chicken and a spicy sauce joined them, along with cream soda and light and fluffy seafood pancakes.*

Sirius: *knocks on the door to Erik’s room* Father, are you available? We have new intel to go over.
Erik: Oh! Err…no I’ll be right out.
*There was a sound of heavy movement and a stifled belch.*
Sirius: *sweat drops*… Do you need any help? If Monohebi gave you yet another headache to worry about-
Erik: It’s fine, I’m coming.
*The door opened to reveal a heavily engorged and fattened Erikon, whose broad bulk was wider than the doorway. The scent of butter and red velvet cake caused the wolf’s nose to twitch, and he caught small glimpse of what was beyond the dragon.*
Erik: Eheh… so about Monohebi’s gift.
Sirius: He’s got you to spoil your dinner now?
Erik: W-well, the chefs do a fine job of that as is. And it has inspired me with some tactics we might employ against the World Government. I…just thought a brief break was in order.
Sirius: Mhm…
Erik: But now that break is over, and we can head back out.
Sirius: Are you sure? I don’t mind discussing plans with the others if you’d rather pig out some more. *there was a note of humor in his voice*
Erik: *huffs* Now listen here, if we’re going to discuss pigging out, don’t make me get your aunt to actually make good on the Creator’s earlier intent.
Sirius: *his ears perk up* Aw, dang it. I was supposed to deliver her reply! *sweat drops* I… guess we need to find him.
Erik: We should, yes. *moves to leave the room… only to become caught in the doorway* Err…
Sirius: …Need some help?
Erik: Yes please.

Shadow Lyle: Well, dad actually showed up. Let's see if he's just gonna keep pretending he's not here, or if he's gonna speak up.
*Lit Gill noticeably begins to wriggle free from between Sarkon and Jera. With the food all prepared, Half Wil and Merc Akira smiled as they looked at the spread before them.*
Merc Akira: Hmm, which one to pick.
Half Wil: I don't know! Such good food needs to be enjoyed slowly and carefully.
*Another growl from Jera, actually coming from the Joltik Creator on his arm. Wil grabs a piece of the seafood pancake and blatantly moves to take an agonizingly slow bite.*
Half Wil: ... *pulls back* Actually, maybe I should just gift it to Luke back home.
Crey: NO MIIIINE! *Jumps off of Jera's arm and lands in the chicken tikka masala, which steadily disappears into him*
Merc Akira: About time you spoke up, cause I'm pretty sure Erik's friends were starting to wonder where you ran off to.

Sarkon: *huffs, trying to move his colossal tail to block in Lit Gill* Now now…are you done…causing mischief… for now? *from how full he sounded, he wasn’t in a position to resist Gill further*
Jera: *glances down contemplating whether to nudge the Joltik. Before long, he saw that it was unnecessary, as the Creator made himself known once more.*
Dojin: Meh, like Kori said, you overestimate most of our concern or care… *sweat drops and shudders as he can feel the penguin-hawk glaring at him whilst menacingly holding a needle mid-stitch*
Rufus: I think most of us were concerned. You did seem in a bit of a mood earlier.
Baphormisith: A bit?
Merk: Ehem, I feel he should talk with his children more about it.
Rufus: *tilts his head, visibly confused* I mean… I see no reason he shouldn’t. *shrugs, putting the last touches on the stand* Your stand’s ready, Lyle. *sure enough, it was a near identical stand to the one that blew up, save for a neon sign and what appeared to be modular features. It was clearly made with alterations and upgrades in mind*
*From the house, Sirius and Erikon emerged, still appearing to chat and perhaps share intel with each other.*
Erik: *takes note of the commotion* Ah, I gather the Creator has returned? *chuckles*

Lit Gill: *almost immediately stops when Sarkon's tail blocks his path. Sarkon could feel a pair of arms hug the tip of his tail soon after.*
Half Wil: *picks the Joltik out of the food and holds the bloated white tick.* So dad, are you in a mood right now?
Crey: ...Define a "mood".
Merc Akira: Well you were being childish with Hiro earlier. Not to mention overdoing it with the P-balloons. Which you haven't dispelled, by the way. *points at the various balloons either tethered or walled-off*
Crey: Oh yeah. I was just feeling a little upset.
Half Wil: Oh really? The World Government got that deep under your skin?
Crey: No, I'm upset that I haven't thought of a game to play yet. It's eating me up inside!
Half Wil: Excuse me, what...
Shadow Lyle: *looks at the stand, smiles, then quickly shakes his head and scowls as he inspects it* ...Why isn't it gold-leaf? Why are there no excessive amounts of jewels inlaid on all the surfaces? And why is there no massage chair attached to it? And I'm not paying you for this slop! *gestures to the neon sign of a fat Lugia with a potion flask gut*
Light Elly: *wanders out the door, heads to Lyle's stand, and stares at it*
Shadow Lyle: *notices Elly, and quickly get between her and the stand* Ooooh no, Elly. You stay away from this! It's mine, not some materials you can rip apart for your projects!
Light Elly: ... *turns to the neon sign* Then I'll take the nightlight.
Shadow Lyle: *grabs the neon sign and holds it protectively* You can't have it!
Crey: *turns to Erik and Merk* Ahem. Onto more important matters... *points at them* The Star and the Hierophant may go to war soon. If you get them to acknowledge each other, your vow will become a true bond. As for the Hermit, you have already bonded with them. But they may lead you to bonding with the Fortune and befriending the Death.
Merc Akira: *stiffens a little* ...The Hermit, that's...Tech Drake and Elly. Fortune is...
Half Wil: That's me.
Merc Akira: And Death is Lit Luke. *Lit Gill wriggles a little* So Star and Hierophant is...
Half Wil: That's Merc Gill and Merc Luke.
Crey: *is trying to reach the yakisoba bread* Eeh. Eeeeh.

Sarkon: *sweat drops* More comfort time I suppose then. *looks to think before sending a pulse of magic through his tail to make Gill fuller and fatter*
Rufus: Yeah, pretty much what Akira said.
Jera: *sweat drops as well upon hearing the Creator’s explanation* I… ok, is he sarcastic often, if at all?
Rufus: *rolls his eyes* One, I don’t believe we discussed payment. Two, I said we’d recreate your stand, not add any frills or baubles. *looks between the siblings*… And I’m going to guess you like it enough to keep anyway? *facepalms* I’m seriously getting mixed messages from you; we did make it to where you could remove the sign in case you didn’t like it, yet you’re defending it like it’s priceless art and not some joke Dojin shoehorned in.
Dojin: Hey!
Rufus: *sighs*… If you like it that much, how about we come up with a night light for Elly?
Erik: Hm…I think we knew that was coming. Honestly, that was part of the current plan.
Merk: *nods* So was getting them to acknowledge each other?
Erik: Well, them actually fighting a war would seem to benefit the one they both hate. I would say them acknowledging each other is quite central to the plan.
Sirius: *narrows his eyes upon hearing who they could bond with next*
Erik: Well, we’ll see about pursuing those leads. At the moment, Blank’s talents also seem suited to helping with the matter you lead with.
Merk: Well if they have time, I was thinking about a trip to the Library.
Sirius: …I suppose talking with Half Wil would be good.
Gaius: *chuckles* Hey, just so we’re not hinging several activities on two busy tech members, my team and I can handle the intelligence research if need be.
Erik: *nods* That’s good.

Lit Gill: *squirms a little as he gets fattened up some more*
Half Wil: Dad can be sarcastic sometimes, you'd hear it in his voice. But I don't think he's being sarcastic right now.
Shadow Lyle: N-no! I'm just keeping it anyway because...Well, I'm generous. And kind! Rejecting it would shatter your fragile little hearts. Same goes for the sign.
Light Elly: ... *wanders away*
Shadow Lyle: ...But if you have time to placate her, I wouldn't object to that.
Merc Akira: How are you going to get them to acknowledge each other? The only thing I could think of is if they fought and recognize each other's strength.
Crey: That reminds me. Have you bonded with the Strength?
Merc Akira: Er...me?
Half Wil: Dad, focus. What do we need to do about the World Government? Should we be worried that you're getting restless again? And what about the other Shadows? We already stopped several apocalypse scenarios, so I'm not keen on another one anytime soon.
Crey: Hmm. Well I am getting restless, that much I know. But I'm not sharing too much information. Erik, Merk and Sirius don't have a high-enough clearance.
Half Wil: ...Okay, is it the bonding thing?
Crey: Yep!
Merc Akira: *facepalms* ...Erik! Sirius! You guys are my best friends! Does that count?
Crey: Nope. You're still whiny about your physical strength. And Wil, you're still whiny about belonging in the family.
Light Elly: Well that's blunt. *is picking herbs*

Sarkon: *sweat drops… although he does seem happy for Gill*
Jera: I… see.
Rufus: *rolls his eyes* And annoyed with you, sure. *looks to think* The modular design does go for if you wanted to add on to it as well. Replace sections, make it larger, add storage, stuff like that. *nods* Alright, you heard him Dojin.
Dojin: *gawks* Why me?!
Rufus: Because if you have enough time for jokes, you have enough time to help out with her.
Dojin: I- *grumbles before pouting and going to work with more glass*
Erik: *looks to think* Luke may be prepared to. As I said, them working together is what ultimately makes this plan have a chance of succeeding, given it’s what will cause their enemies to… overplay their hand.
Gaius: …I hope you’re right.
Sirius: *sighs* Well, Gill’s nowhere near ready. His crew maybe, but I don’t know if he sees any benefit to acknowledging Luke. Heck, I don’t know if he sees him as any more than another bad guy.
Gaius: *clears his throat*
Sirius: *growls slightly, becoming annoyed with the Creator, when the children were trying to be helpful.*
Merk: Hm, well distractions did come up earlier. *nods to the P-balloons* I mean, I hope you know I was trying to get your attention. Lit Gill is a wonderful teacher I believe. *smiles before appearing to think* Would it be fair to ask for you to keep your restlessness in check if it allows us to bond with your children more effectively? Because we do wish to help. Bonding with Luke and Gill is a part of that, and I see no reason not to try bonding with the others. *He appeared to try and politely bring up what Half Wil was discussing earlier*
Altrios: Yeah *throws his arm around Sirius*, especially now that Sirius is being considered, they can cover more activities with the kids.
Sirius: H-h-hey, wait a moment, I didn’t agree to that! *attempts to shove him away* Lend an ear and some advice sure, help save the world sure, that’s… *shakes his head* You might do better with Altrios.
Altrios: Aw, I’m touched you think that. But I think you’re better for counsel and problem solving.
Sirius: Oh please, you probably could talk to any of the Gills better than I could. I… get annoyed too easily.
Altrios: Eh, *nods to the Creator* maybe I’ll help throw around some shiny objects, if it gets you where you need to be.
Erik: *chuckles slightly, seeming more than willing to send Sirius out to play with some of the Creator’s children. He did seem curious about how the Creator would respond to Merk’s query*

Crey: Oh yeah, the balloons. *all of the balloons suddenly pop at once* That'll do. Now then, what about the demons? Have they been well tenderized?
Half Wil: *shakes him a little* Dad.
Crey: Okay! Okay. My restlessness...Well, no. I'm actually so bored I wanna make a floating island and just watch and see how everyone will react. Aaand maybe drop it-
Half Wil: *shakes him* Dad!
Crey: Uuuggh! Stop yelling at me! *shocks Half Wil and jumps to the cream soda, downing it in seconds*
Des: *from the shadows* He's getting upset...
Merc Akira: *sighs* ...So Sirius, you wanna hang out or...Something. It's hard to get anything out of him when he's moody.
Crey: Reverse Wil is in charge of a small village. You could ask for his advice there. Or talk to Gill's crew some more. They're docked in another town right now, resupplying from Gill's appetite. And lastly, Feral Wil is nearby sniffing around.
Half Wil: Why is he nearby?
Crey: New day, new map. I almost forgot to reconnect it to this place. Oh, and there's a Nergigante somewhere. Have fun with that.

*The group seems pleased that the balloons were finally dealt with, although worried that the Creator seemed… moody still.*
Merk: That err… wasn’t the goal honestly.
Sirius: *growls a little more* Are you- you’re still getting-
Altrios: *yanks him back, almost pulling him to the ground* Heeeey, guess I know what I’m doing to help out around here. *grins* If what you’re looking for is a song and dance here and wherever these three go to hang out with your kids, I’ll see what I can do.
Sirius: *yelps and coughs, tapping Altrios’ arm*
Erik: *sweat drops looking in Des’ direction* Err… could you… perhaps let us know if there’s anything we can do to help? I can’t help but feel he’s barely listening to anyone, including you, if this morning was any indicator.
Sirius: *coughs and sighs upon being released by Altrios. He was still grumbling as well*… Sure. *He couldn’t help but narrow his eyes when two particular Wils were brought up*
Merk: Well, I still think a trip to the Library would be good. If Blank would consider joining me. Otherwise we could chat and I’ll consider where to go from there.
Erik: *looks to ponder* I could check up on Feral Wil. We’ve parted on… somewhat neutral terms these last few times. And I may see how I can prepare for some trials. I’d… prefer Reverse Wil come to us. Or we meet on more neutral territory. Only because I’m concerned how he would react to trespassers.
Sirius: …I feel I’d be better hanging out with Merc Akira at the moment. Maybe Half Wil. Or someone else who makes sense.
Erik: *sweat drops* Really, you don’t need to qualify it like that.
Sirius: *is listening less and less* And what is a Nergigante?
Erik: Well, a monster if memory serves. I will say our monster hunting is perhaps a bit rusty, though I know that’s… no easy foe. *sweat drops*

Crey: ...Ya know what? I take it all back. Sirius is my favorite Atherusian visitor now.
Half Wil: *is rubbing his hand* I have a bad feeling about that statement.
Crey: Now I wanna keep teasing and teasing him and pushing the line until I see him pull a Merk in the olden days!
Des: Well, dealing with the World Government as soon as possible is priority 1. Priority 2 is the trials of the OneSong for Feral Wil.
Merc Akira: Um, I'll hang out with Sirius then, just to make sure he knows some of us still have our heads on straight.
Half Wil: And I can get Blank out of their room so we can visit the Library. I don't think Merk can convince them to leave otherwise. Sorry, Merk.
Shadow Lyle: *has already reopened his stall* Looks like another full schedule even though we have to worry about Gill and Luke killing each other.
Crey: Oh they won't, don't worry. Not until the big war is ready to happen. By the way, I should call Show Drake sometime, been a while since I've seen him.

Sirius: *growls further*
Altrios: *sweat drops and tenses a little* I’m pretty sure you know that’s a bad idea. For many reasons. *shrugs* Not the least of which is that by that point you’ve pushed him pretty far away from you for… reasons.
Erik: *nods* Then we have our priorities correct. We’ve spoken with Luke and Gill already, and they have their parts of the plan either ready or being prepared. And I’ll see about keeping up with both of them, along with recruiting additional allies to provide additional avenues for success.
Gaius: *nods as well* We have the intel front relatively covered. We’ll dig up what we can remotely, and let you know if we need to physically visit a location for more sensitive information.
Merk: *chuckles* Oh it’s fine Wil. Them accompanying me was optional. If they’re preoccupied, we can talk and I’ll either head to the library myself or stay here and chat with you.
Sirius: *grimaces* I don’t doubt that, Akira. It’s the ones that don’t have their heads on straight and their intentions that concern me. *looks to think*… Ok, and that extends to the intentions of some who also have their heads on straight.
Altrios: Oh, may we ask what brought on talking with Show Drake?
Sirius: *looks like he had something to say, but withholds it*

Crey: Push Sirius away? You make it sound like it's a bad thing. I already tried it three times on Erik and Merk, and they're stubbornly sticking around.
Merc Akira: ...Ending the world is a pretty good way to push people away from you...
Half Wil: Mm...If you head to the Library on your own, they're gonna make some excuse to guilt trip you into giving them something. Just sit tight. *heads into the house*
Merc Akira: *cough* Anyway Sirius, we should head somewhere so dad can't keep teasing you.

Altrios: …*sighs* I’d bring up the ways this is different, but… eh. *shrugs*
Merk: Hm… alright, I will abide by your counsel.
Sirius: *grumbles* Fair enough. *looks back to the Creator* Oh yeah, Aunt Selavra says she’ll happily make a mountain of ice cream for you. Anywhere. Anytime. *thinks on what to say next* As a chef with a fraction of Gill’s enthusiasm, and a divine ruler, nothing more *thinks further* There might’ve been some verse about seeing your girth push the bounds and scope of the world as well. *prepares to leave with Akira* Where to? The dojo?
Erik: *looks to think before chuckling* It sounds like she wishes to be friends.

Crey: Hmm. *looks at Sirius, then at Erik* Weird. I'm not exactly looking for a mate at the moment. *scratches himself*
Merc Akira: Mm, I was thinking more that we just talk over at the firepit. I don't think more training is gonna do much. *starts walking over there*
Half Wil: *comes back out* And I'm back.
Tech Drake: Ugh. Why do we have to go to that fake place?
Tech Elly: Yeah. Didn't you get enough on the first visit there?
Crey: Anyway. Erik, your friends seem pretty concerned over my mental state. But shouldn't you be checking on one of my kids now?

Erik: *chuckles further* Weird indeed. Where could she have gotten the idea you might enjoy being a tick bloated on good food?
Sirius: ...Alright sounds good, I'm in no mood to answer a rhetorical question. *heads over to the firepit*
Merk: Oh come now, at least one thing is real there, and everyone seems to think it's highly important. Plus I heard you could tell me some things about Lit Luke.
Erik: *looks back to the Creator, nodding* You're right. I'm also...curious how Feral Wil is doing. *begins to leave before pausing* And try not to worry, alright? We're around half way to preventing a war, and hopefully to being able to using our enemies confidence against them.
Altrios: *tilts his head* Don't you think you should slim down first?
Erik: Hm? Eh, I'll decide on the way. *begins to leave*
Altrios: *rolls his eyes* Fine, don't blame me if someone tries to take a bite out of you. *looks back to the Creator* And you. Are you going to stick around here?

Merc Akira: *sits by the fire* ...Ya ever notice the fire pit never actually goes out? Weird. *stares into it for a while*...

Tech Drake: Hmm? Lit Luke? You wanna know more about him?
Tech Elly: Other than his Arcana.
Half Wil: It's why we're heading there with Merk.
Tech Drake: Hmm...Well, he really enjoys action fantasy. He tends to avoid slice of life and romantic dramas.
Tech Elly: We can say more on the way.

Crey: *watches as Erik leaves* ...Mm. I'll stick around to see. Halfway to preventing a war huh? In all honesty...I'd like to see that war happen. I wanna see the World Government crushed under heel. But I can settle for being put under new management. Question is can you differentiate the white sheep from the black when both colors are...Meh, I'll leave Chesh to explain color theory.

Meanwhile, the moment Erik enters a different zone, the humidity turns dry and arid as he enters a rocky barren region. The sound of roars immediately hits him, echoing through the landscape.

Sirius: *shrugs* It's magic fire, I imagine. It probably saves on fuel costs. *doesn't sound as grumpy, and is making more of an observation*....So, what did you wish to talk about?

Merk: I do. *nods as he appears prepared to leave* Really? I would've guessed he preferred more serious topics... then again, action fantasy can be a pretty broad umbrella.

Altrios: Eh, I get the feeling he means between the two brothers, at least temporarily. Merc Luke might be on board with working with Gill, if it means what you say. That is, if it gives them an opportunity to weaken, if not outright eliminate, the World Government. *shrugs* He's also likely acknowledging he still has work to do, probably with Merc Gill and maybe a bit more with Luke, before all the pieces fall into place. *glances over to where Gaius is* Although, Erik's probably treading lightly, and not just because of the threat this foe poses. That thing you just said about putting them under new management? It might have some bearing on how the current plan proceeds. *shrugs once more* Though what do I know? He could be planning on eliminating the leaders one by one, making use of the ensuing chaos, and helping with Luke and Gill's rivalry is just to get further intel on said leaders. *He did appear to know more than he let on*

Erik: *looks around, taking a moment to adjust to the sudden change in environment* Well, I gather I'm in the right place. Now to find Wil...

Merc Akira: ...Sirius. You ever think...Or, you ever been in a situation where...You're not strong enough?

Tech Drake: Oh, you definitely need to spend more time with Luke if you don't know his genre preferences.
*Blank is already heading out to head to the Lit Group's Library*

Crey: Oh, they definitely have a lot of work to do with those two. But I've got a feeling they're getting fairly close. But it's weird if Erik thinks they'd ever wage war with each other. They're brothers, after all! Brothers until the end. *looks at Altrios* But it would be foolish to take them out one by one. The founders of the WG. They'd bring the fight here the moment they find out, after all. They don't exactly...Like possible threats to their absolute rule.

*As Erik looks around the area, he does find traces of a struggle. Rubble, claw marks on the ground, and what look like large spikes stabbed all over the place. Like they were launched at high velocity. It doesn't take long for the sound of roars and fighting became closer*

Sirius: …*sighs before nodding* Several times. Mostly thinking… occasionally actuality.

Merk: Hm, well we can fix that over time. *follows them out towards the Lit Group’s Library*

Altrios: Really? I thought I heard Merc Gill wanted to fight Luke? And if Luke were to actually do… well, attempt to do what the WG wants… eh, Gill’s proven he’s nothing if not evasive at least. *shrugs* And Luke’s actions would appear to bear out what you say. He’s worked to defend Gill, going as far as to give him a heads up when trouble is brewing in this instance. And it would appear he can see matters from the viewpoint of those impacted by Gill’s actions. The ones he saves I mean. *he does smirk lightly* Now see, that’s presuming they’d be able to trace what happened back to here. Plus the house can move, with a little help. *looks to think* Still, among other reasons, we may be running out of time for the slow and subtle approach. And even a string of unfortunate “accidents” might cause the remaining leaders to hunker down. For those reasons, and the one you just described, I can see Erik selecting a quicker solution to the problem. How he’s linked that potential solution to getting the brothers to work together… *shrugs yet again* well, it seems we’ll have to wait and see. Unless you’d like to speculate further? Or discuss something else, because oof this topic is getting heavy. *he seemed open to talking further with the Creator, even changing the subject if need be.*

Erik: Hm, *leans in closer* Have you been through here? And if so… hunters perhaps? No, the spikes seem crude, and much too large for individuals like the villagers we met with. It is a physically powerful foe regardless. *looks in the direction of the sounds* Let’s find out, shall we?

Merc Akira: Mm. Does it get...Any easier? When those thoughts pop up?

Crey: *chuckles* Now now. Gill wants to fight him, but it isn't the same as wanting to wage war. When the pressure is on, they'll always choose to fight for each other. And I hope this place doesn't get traced, it would be a shame. *goes back to eating* You think this Joltik form makes my abdomen look big?

*Erik finds a jeep, occupied by a white snake, a purple-striped cat, and another cat wearing a jacket and goggles. It looked like they were observing an anthro wolf and Lucario in the middle of a fight with a large horned dragon covered from wing to tail in spikes.*

Sirius: *looks to think about the question* Over time, and depending on the circumstances, yes. I won't say the thoughts ever completely go away.

Altrios: Huh... alright, fair enough. Good to know. 'Cause the pressure will be on later. *looks to think, glancing again at Gaius* Eh, so far it seems we're just seeing what we can learn and use against them in the actual fight. They'll be careful, for obvious reasons. *chuckles warmly* I think the combination of being a Bug-type and eating so much makes your abdomen look big.

Erik: Hm, so that's where Chesh and company went... *observes the battle, wondering if he should get involved. Unlike the three in the jeep, he was fairly noticeable against the landscape*

Merc Akira: ...Really? *sighs as he puts his head in his hands* ...Is there...No way to shut up those thoughts?

*Merk's group quickly arrives at the Library. Blank doesn't even greet their siblings and just strolls into the Skyscraper and into the place.*
Lit Drake: *is seated at the front desk reading through a large chained book while blindfolded* Oh, hey there, you three. Looking for something?
Half Wil: I'm here too.
Lit Drake: S'cuse me, four.
Tech Drake: We're here for Luke. Is he here?
Lit Drake: Yes, actually. Third floor, next to the sci-fi section.

Crey: *giggled to himself* You think I could match Gill's size?
Lit Gill: *starts wriggling to freedom again*

Monohebi: You can do it, guys! Watch out for that tail!
*The Nergigante starts shooting its spikes at the wolf and Lucario*
Chesh: Heheheh! Shouldn't be much longer now!
Koryu: Guys, incoming intruder!
*Something drops towards the ground, causing explosions along the area. A large wyvern monster flies in, one with a very thick neck. Large pod-like scales begin to drop from its neck and tail, which cause explosions upon hitting the ground. The wolf, Lucario, and Nergigante are actively dodging these pods as the Bazelgeuse lands and starts roaring at all of them.

Sirius: *looks to think* As far as I'm aware, no. Although, I suppose I've tried to use those thoughts to keep me on my toes.

Merk: *tilts his head back and forth, seeming curious about Lit Drake and... the way he was reading.* Thank you Lit Drake, *leaves, heading up to the third floor of the library*

Altrios: Ehhhhh...sure. *shrugs* A Gill-sized Joltik wouldn't be the strangest thing here I imagine.
Sarkon: *sweat drops, sending another pulse of energy through his tail, curious to see if Gill could resist long enough to keep struggling to escape*

Erik: *continues watching the fight ensue, still pondering if he should get involved.* Yeesh, I really haven't kept up with monster hunting... *nods along as it appears that Wil and Luke were doing well enough. Still, eventually he spoke up.* I don't suppose you two would accept some assistance?

Merc Akira: But, how do you handle all of that? How can you stand the thought that...That you're just getting in everyone's way? Like...Like...

*Heading up, the group finds an open room where Lit Luke is apparently doing something with a photo album.*
Tech Drake: Heeey there, Luke!
Lit Luke: *looks up* Oh, you guys.
Half Wil: You seem frustrated at something.
Lit Luke: Well for your information, the photos in this album is mixed up with the album for the amusement park vacation.
Tech Drake: Really? *looks at the album Luke is holding* Hey, isn't this our various Akiba trips?
Lit Luke: Yes, and I'd like to remove the pictures of the roller coasters and ferris wheels from it.

Crey: Oh? Well now I must ask. What is the strangest thing you've seen here, in your opinion?
*Lit Gill seems to swell bigger between Sarkon and Jera before he stops struggling again. Although now Sarkon can feel something wet and warm cover the tip of his tail.*

*The moment Erik spoke up, Wil and Luke give each other a nod.*
Feral Wil: Yeah, thanks Erik!
Luke: We'll leave it to you.
*They proceed to run past Erik, hop into the jeep, and Chesh steps on the gas to drive away. All the while, the Nergigante and Bazelgeuse roar while charging in Erik's direction.*

Sirius: *he tilted his head again, thinking*...I suppose keep moving forward. I can't say that's something we've never experienced. I mean, I hope I'm doing the right thing in assisting in matters here. But...I do think you perform your role as a tank admirably, based on what I've seen and heard. So... I guess what I'm trying to say is I don't feel like you're just getting in the way.

Merk: *looks over the scrap book with Blank* Err... would you like some assistance? Sorting through photos seems manageable.

Altrios: Hm? Hm... *looks to think * Well there was... eh... alright, I guess a mallet that alters the size of someone. *shrugs* Then again, we don't work with a lot of micro individuals or scenarios. Macro sure, we've got a bunch of dragons and giants as allies.
Sarkon: *blinks and shudders* H-hey! I'm not food!
Jera: ...Then maybe stop filling him up?
Sarkon: *glares at him* Ok. And do you have a better idea for keeping him placated?

Erik: *rolls his eyes* Well, I'm happy you two seem interested in a little sparring. I could use a little exercise. *kicks the ground forward, sending a barrage of sharp icicles forward. The air around him seemed to chill rapidly as well*

Merc Akira: *takes a deep breath* ...I'm...It's good you think I'm doing alright, I suppose. It's just...I try so hard to match up to my big bros. Be like them, you know? I'm just not...Sure. About...About my place in the team.

Lit Luke: ... *looks at the album, then at Merk* No thank you.
Tech Drake: *swipes a picture and shows Merk* He's just embarrassed.
*The picture is Luke eating a bowl of ramen, while half a dozen empty bowls sat beside him.*
Lit Luke: *swipes the photo back* Okay, you don't show the newbie any photos, got it?
Half Wil: *giggles to himself* What's the matter, afraid of letting your hair down?

Crey: Oh yeah! My lucky mallet! *Said mallet appears in the air* Shall I use it?
*Interestingly, Lit Gill lets go of Sarkon's tail after his outburst.*

*The monsters were barely able to dodge the icicles as they leap to the sides, getting a few glancing blows striking their sides. The Nergigante and Bazelgeuse then start throwing spikes and explosive pods at him.*

Sirius: *nods, thinking for a moment* Would you like to speak further on that? As far as I’m aware from our own outing to the water dungeon, you’re a tank within the Mercenary Group. And if the Group follows the format of the others, Wil is the leader, Luke is the agile damage dealer and Gill… well, I’m going to say high-yield damage dealer in this instance? If only to because there’s enough evidence of how destructive he can be. I say all that to say I don’t know enough about your place in the team to comment fully on how you feel.

Merk: *gawks slightly* Aw, and I thought Fetish Luke was the only former glutton. *smiles, stopping himself from asking what happened* I mean, Erik or I would like to spend time with you at some point. If now isn’t a good time, that’s fine, but I did wish to deliver that message.

Altrios: *sweat drops* Eh…I’m fairly sure we shouldn’t cause more chaos, but who did you have in mind?
Sarkon: …
Jera: …
Sarkon: …Well I’m not food.
Jera: Yeah… but…
Sarkon: … *grumbles* Ok. How about the two of us have a sprawling feast, eh Gill? *looks over to Jera* Unless you’d like to join us?
Jera: *shrugs* Why not? My figure’s already fairly overblown for the day.

Erik: *just grins as he throws up a wall of ice to block the projectiles while leading into the air in front. It was fairly weak in terms of defense, falling apart when struck, but spreading a chilling mist around when destroyed. When he landed, it sent a massive quake throughout the surrounding area, possibly attempting to shake the two monsters* So I presume you're the “hunter” I saw signs of earlier. You’ve got the strength, I’ll give you, but your prey would be more spear than meat when you’re through. And you seem like fun. Do you think I could hire you to be my lair’s cooktop? *he seemed to relish in taunting the Nergigante and Bazelgeuse*

Merc Akira: Okay. Well, I did start out as a scout and damage dealer. I am pretty speedy with my size, but seeing how easy everyone else could knock down an enemy, I wanted to change my specialization. I'm a tank now after a bunch of training sessions, but it still feels...lacking. I mean, I've seen Drake take a whole explosion in his face without flinching. So now I feel like I'm stuck playing catch-up.

Lit Luke: ..."Former" glutton? Excuse me? Merk, neither you or Erik are hanging around anywhere near me unless you can explain why I love food. *crosses his arms* That is, if you can even figure out that much.
Tech Drake: Heheheh! Oh Merk, you really gotta watch what you say!
Tech Elly: Instant noodles are a revolutionary invention because during times of war, it is important to establish a supply line to feed your army. Preserving foods while also making them transportable has made them invaluable to any army.
Half Wil: Heheheh! I guess my hint is Luke enjoys different flavors of ramen, including curry ramen. Not as much as Drake, but I've seen him ask Gill to cook curry with chocolate before.
Lit Luke: *rolls his eyes* How many hints are you gonna give him?

Crey: Um, everyone?
*the mallet suddenly smacks down on Altrios. In the next second, Altrios finds himself face to belly with a white Joltik gut.*
Crey: You'll make for a good appetizer, though. *presses himself against Altrios*
Lit Gill: Mmph! *starts wriggling upwards towards Sarkon's face. And probably failing due to gravity and his widened weight*

*Both the Nergigante and Bazelgeuse are thrown off balance by the quake.*
Monohebi: Take 'em down!
*The jeep drives back into the area, with Koryu and Monohebi chucking a flash bomb and a fire bomb at the monsters. Chesh chucks an antidote at Erik, and then a potion at the Nergigante.*
Koryu: Where are you aiming!?
Chesh: I have one hand on the steering wheel! Excuse me if I have my attention divided!
Feral Wil: Then let me drive!
Luke: Not in your condition!
*The sound of their arguing could be heard as they drive around the area and continuously throw items into the fight at random*

Sirius: Hm...perhaps focus on ways you contribute to the group? Whereas Drake can tank explosions and can be more rooted, you might serve as a more agile shield for more dynamic battles? Or offer more ways of supporting allies or debilitating opponents? I suppose what I'm trying to say is while you might be catching-up in certain areas, you might be ahead in others.

Merk: *giggles* Oh? Is that to imply he's not a former one? *looks to think* I mean that's a bit hard, considering we only just met and I've observed a photo of you. *glances between Wil and Elly* If I had to guess, because he enjoys variety of ramen and wants to try all the possible combinations and attempt to come up with new varieties, possibly for the rest of the group to enjoy.

Altrios: *sweat drops and grunts as he suddenly finds himself pressed against the Joltik's belly* Ok, just another reminder that we can't do our tasks when small. *grins though he's rather irked, perhaps already scheming a bit of revenge*
Sarkon: *sighs lumbering off Gill, narrowing his eyes* Try anything, and you'll be a Zone-sized billboard of tightened blubber before you can summon an imp.
Jera: *sweat drops scratching himself* I... feel like you're threatening him with a good time.
Sarkon: *clears his throat*... Only because a good time pleases him. I feel Erikon's strategy of... reverse-gluttony? Overloading gluttony? In any case, his way is perhaps more applicable here.

*Erik was already winding up for another attack when the jeep came back onto the field, distracting him. He sweat dropped, pondering their intentions before shaking his head and stowing the antidote*
Erik: Well, not sure either of you deal poison, but I'll hold onto this. *skates toward the pair on a frozen path, minding the jeep's route and spinning to swing an ice-encrusted tail toward the Nergigante's head and an ice-encrusted fist at the Bazelgeuse's head. He seemed to favor blunt attacks over sharp lethality*

Merc Akira: I... *sighs* Yeah, maybe? I guess that's a good point. It's just so...I dunno. I should think about it a little more.

Lit Luke: *raises an eyebrow* ...Really, Merk? I'm of the Literature Group, not the Fetish Group.
Tech Elly: I thought my hint was pretty good.
Half Wil: In all fairness, all four of us head to Akiba together somewhat regularly. I can still remember how it started out as an impoverished small town during dangerous times.
Tech Drake: Luke is also the Death Arcana.

Crey: Hmph, I'm sure those tasks aren't all that important, little guy. *The Lucky Mallet hovers over them*
Lit Gill: Oh, does that mean I should try something!? *excitedly scrambles up the rolls of fat* Go on, do it! Show me your Gluttony!
Crey: *turns to Gill* Gill! Don't you have any paperwork to do back at Des' place?
Lit Gill: *freezes* ...Uh, nooo...

*Both monsters are knocked down, just as a smoke bomb explodes between them and disorient them*
Chesh: Finish 'em off, Erik!
Feral Wil: But maybe make it quick? I still need the meat!

Sirius: *nods* I think that is wise. I will note that the same logic applies to being a damage dealer as well. You might have strengths that apply to situations where others might struggle.

Merk: Well, I tried to combine the two hints. The Lukes have a tendency to care about their siblings. Testing out the rations they’ll consume and improving them is in line with that. Hm… does he like reminiscing about older times? Certain foods could trigger such memories. Or… well, to get an indirect hint, what are some qualities of the Death Arcana, if I may ask?

Altrios: *sighs, before his ears perk up*
Sarkon: Wha-no. I mean, I think that’ll happen regardless. *sweat drops*
Jera: …See, this is why you don’t threaten someone excitable with a good time. *tilts his head* And you do paperwork at Des’ place?
Altrios: Heh! *attempts to shove the Creator off of him and launch himself at the Lucky Mallet.*

Erik: Hehe, alright then. *takes a moment to inhale deeply before exhaling a thick mist toward the two monsters. It was a focused attack… if it could be called that. Inhaling the mist caused the pair to fatten up significantly with each breath, while Erik seemed to rapidly lose weight. It seemed his goal was to incapacitate them rather than kill them.*

Merc Akira: Mm...Thanks. For listening, I mean. *walks away*

Lit Luke: *rubs his temples* Sometimes I wonder what you guys hope to gain by trying to be so close to us. We're already on the same side, technically.
Half Wil: Anyway! The Death Arcana. Despite the name, it usually means renewal and new beginnings. The reverse means the end or the literal or figurative death of something.
Tech Drake: For some interpretations, it could mean being stuck on something instead of moving on. Since the upright position is all about new starts and such...
Lit Luke: *sighs* I know they dropped some war-related hints and talked about Akiba's history briefly.
Lit Drake: *from outside the room* Oh, are you guys talking about how you glut in Akiba restaurants to reminisce the times it was still a small town?
Lit Luke: CREATOR DAMMIT DRAKE! *Forms an Aurasphere and launches it at the door*

Crey: *is shoved back with little reaction* By Des' place, I mean the demonic realm in general. If I refer to his actual residence, I'd just refer to it as his house or home.
Des: It's more like a pit in the ground...
Lit Gill: This is why I hire demon secretaries to do the boring stuff! Plus I like seeing them crush their desks from all the donuts and coffee I send them.
*As Altrios jumps up to the mallet, there's a flash of light and he returns to regular height.*

*Erik's final attack causes the pair of monsters to swell pretty large. At least big enough that they have a great deal of difficulty moving. They definitely can't continue fighting in their condition.*
Chesh: Great job, Erik! Now eat them!
Koryu: ...Can you eat them? I thought only herbivore monsters could be eaten.
Monohebi: You can eat anything if you're brave enough.
*Wil and Luke disembark, approaching Erik.*
Luke: Good job. I'm Half Luke, by the way.
Feral Wil: So what are you doing out here?

Sirius: *nods in turn, smiling* Thank you for sharing. *watches Merc Akira leave* I… hope I was of some help. *sighs as he decides to return to the others*

Merk: Eh, a better understanding of our allies? Plus your father seemed antsy about letting us know who we could potentially bond with. *listens to Half Wil* I see…huh-snrk *giggling and looks like he’s trying to suppress laughter* So err… I was on the right track with reminiscing? I mean, I wanted to ask about the Death Arcana to see if it was a good connection to make. Because… well I mean, organizing photos is a fair tell as well. *smiles, though… he does ponder if Lit Luke was stuck in the past, or hopefully just reliving fond memories*

Altrios: Heh. *transforms into a large maned dragon, moving to flop on the Creator* What goes around comes around.
Jera: Ah. I see. I… wouldn’t have guessed the demonic realm was Des’ domain. I… guess Gill made his own slice of paradise then?
Sarkon: *clears his throat* R-right so uh… I mean, if we’re going to feast we should probably move away from the house.

Erik: Eh… *takes a moment to poke the two hefty monsters comically* Meh, I can do without the internal bleeding. *pats the Nergigante* Or the heartburn. *pats the Bazelgeuse before nodding to Half Luke and Feral Wil* Well I came to hang out with you, see how you were doing and… *glances at the monsters* I’ll admit, I didn’t think I’d be showing off who’s the heavy hitter around here. *chuckles* Still, I figured I would just disable them. They’re not in my territory, I feel like their fate isn’t my choice. *shrugs* I will say the spiky fellow’s not so bad, now that more of his edges are curves. *snickers*

Lit Luke: Uhuh. Well if we're gonna spend a lot of time together, we should do it at Akiba. I have a bit more organizing to do here, so I'll see you later.
message: Thou art I, and I am thou.
Thou hast attained a new vow.
The power of the 13th Arcana, the Death, the power of change and transformation, is now yours.
Tech Drake: By the way, Wil. Have you seen that new web novel that's been trending?
Half Wil: Oh yeah! The one with two worlds colliding and they're figuring out how to live together?
Lit Luke: What the hell is wrong with you two? Why don't you try putting down your screens and pick up a real book?
Tech Drake: Well sorry you're so stuck on paperbacks, old man. But the rest of us are modernizing.
Lit Luke: *rolls his eyes* As if a book needs batteries...

*The Creator doesn't move and is smooshed underflab*
Lit Gill: I work hard to expand my city! But why would we move away from the house? Don't you wanna give everyone here a big ol' belly hug?

Feral Wil: Oh! Well, let's hang out, then! I admit, I have thought of spending more time in your territory.
Half Luke: *nods* Well then, I did hear something interesting from my cousin. You're going to take the trials of the OneSong?
Feral Wil: *eyes widen* Erik, don't. You're not ready for that. Those trials are not for the faint of heart. You will have to accept different perspectives, often conflicting ones at once.

Merk: *nods* Sure, we can work on your noodle-bod, ‘cause you’re sending all the wrong messages, “former” glutton. *chuckles cautiously, though more humorously at the banter between the siblings* Why does that sound rather familiar? *looks between Blank, Half Wil and Lit Luke* Well, I do have some other business here if you all would like to continue your discussion. *seems reticent to get involved in that debate.*

Sirius: *looks on at Altrios somewhat wistfully, appearing to question some things*
Altrios: Hehe, aw, all you needed to say was that you needed a bit of belly-time. *sees about hailing a chef for some food*
Jera: Mhm. The size of its borders or its residents? *The question was laced with sarcasm… but moderate amount of admiration as well*
Altrios: Eh, I’m gonna say both.
Sarkon: …I’m concerned about the house? I’d rather not push the limits of whatever invincibility... magic is cast on it.
Altrios: Meh, I say go nuts. C’mon, don’t you wanna put dear brother’s teachings into practice?
Sarkon: *sighs* I will employ Erikon’s technique of conflict resolution on my terms.

Erik: *nods, smiling* Oh good. I was mildly concerned given… well, it feels like some conversations we have had ended awkwardly somehow. *his smile fades somewhat at Half Luke’s interjection* Ah. Nothing stays a secret for very long, hm? I am… considering it. *From the sound of them, it seemed Feral Wil might have a tough time also… though that hardly meant he’d fair better* I… would appreciate it if you could tell me more about them, Wil. I’m reasonably confident in my survival ability, and much of my time has been spent extending compassion. *shrugs* Gill’s techniques offer a way of disabling large armies, and removes a tool used by despots, after all. Wisdom… *appears to think back on a reason for one awkward ending to a previous conversation, and the wisdom that could have gone into it.* I’d rather take the concerns of others close to me under consideration and not let them override every position. And I feel wisdom comes from preparation for a challenge, rather than rushing into it.

Half Wil: If you need to do something else, you can go on ahead. We'll be here for a while.

Lit Gill: Why, both of course. And I will say, it's not easy considering how stubborn a lot of demons can be about relinquishing their territories.
Des: If Gill gets too excited, you could always sneak something into his food to ruin his appetite.
Reverse Luke: *walks into the area* Greetings, everyone. I trust that you all have been enjoying your stay? I came over because I heard about Uncle Crey getting up to mischief.

Feral Wil: Hmm...Should I really give you hints about the trials?
Half Luke: On the bright side, though, if you pass...You'll gain the utmost respect of the entire Feral Group.
Feral Wil: Eeehh... *the Hanged Man Arcana appears* Okay, I'll give you a little hint. Do not be swayed by anything for Survival. You must choose what benefits you most, even if it feels cruel. The path of Wisdom takes many shapes, but do not settle for any one. In the trial of Compassion, remember. I art thou, and thou art I.

Merk: *nods, leaving the siblings to go and explore the library further, as he goes looking for something amidst the books*

Sarkon: Urg… *shifts uneasily* I… think I prefer Hiro’s tactic.
Jera: Eh… I feel the same.
Altrios: Hm? *twists himself so he’s laying on his side, still atop the Creator, and so he can address Reverse Luke* Ok, and? May I ask what you came over to do?

Erik: *shrugs* If not a hint, how the trials are conducted would be helpful. *still it appears Feral Wil was willing to help out, although he does shift uneasily.* Well… that is helpful. We can… at least discuss how to begin the trials. Today may not be a good time.

*While Merk perused the various books, the majority he finds are filled with blank pages.*

Reverse Luke: I came to check up on what's happening, as Uncle can be a lot more...Unpredictable than father.
Crey: *muffled something under Altrios*
Reverse Luke: But it seems you all have a decent handle on it.

Feral Wil: I agree. The hunt took a little longer than anticipated. We'll have to relocate these two, until they shed the extra pounds, anyway.
Half Luke: *nods* I hope you have good fortune in helping the Merc Group. They're a lively bunch.

Merk: Hm…maybe he’s hiding it now… *he appeared to be looking for a book on the Creator’s origins*

Altrios: Oh yeah, nothing much. Just flooding the courtyard with contact-inflation balloons and hitting me with a size-altering mallet. *shrugs* He was in a “mood” as both my relatives and yours seem to agree. *rolls off of the Creator enough for him to speak* Really, you could’ve said something if all you needed was some blubber time. Erik only went and pigged out enough to get stuck in his room, and dad tried to make a big show of working with Gill to embiggen others. *He seemed so open about what happened because he was curious about what, if anything, would happen. He didn’t have an accusatory tone, just a matter-of-fact retelling of what occurred.*

Erik: *nods* Glad we’re in agreement. *pats the Nergigante one last time* Hehe let’s do this again sometime, big guy. *chuckles before addressing Half Luke* I hope so as well. It’s not assured… but it’s not impossible, I feel. I do know that helping them would seem to benefit the entire Fused World, in some way or another.

*As Merk continues his search, he does get a few looks from the rest of the Lit Group present. He eventually gets approached by Drake.*
Lit Drake: Are you looking for something specific?

Reverse Luke: Oh, that's been...Uh, rather eventful.
Crey: Well I didn't wanna just say what's on my mind! You might think I'm weird! You're all a bunch of strangers and weirdos. Except for Sirius, he's more of a...a white crayon. An unsalted cracker. A boring book that could put a librarian to sleep.
Reverse Luke: ...Uncle Crey, I can tell you just want a rise out of him.
Crey: If he was a Pokemon, he'd be a Normal-Type! Like Organ before his awakening.
Reverse Luke: Organ? Do you mean Orynyx?
Crey: Who's Orynyx? I'm talking about the ground guy.
Reverse Luke: ...Sure.

Feral Wil: Now then, shall we talk about something you wanted to speak about? I know you're still worried about the whole...When I attacked that village and stole a mounted head...Thing.
Half Luke: Oh yes, I heard about that incident. That village is still expanding into the Great Green.
*Meanwhile, Chesh, Monohebi and Koryu are listening in*

Merk: *turns to look at Lit Drake* Oh. I was just looking for some books on your father. He seemed to try and coax me to look up more information on him, so I figured I would while I was here at the Library.

Altrios: Eeeeh, I mean, you are generally and typically weird. That’s part of the charm and such, and helps with coming up with events. You just seem comfortable with ignoring… nearly all of your usual council today. I mean, I think you know our tasks, for the moment at least, are kind of important. *shrugs* That’s not to say we’re all busy of course.
Sirius: *flattens his ears, grumbling*
Altrios: Meh, I mean he’s all that, and he’ll listen if you warn him about a particular plan of attack against a particular agency. Because he wants to help, and knows you know more about this threat than him.
Orynyx: H-hey! Don’t drag me into this. *blushes slightly* I’ll crush you!… Between boulders!
Altrios: …So you’ll sit on him?
Orynyx: *blushes more furiously* S-shut it!
Altrios: Eh, all things considered, I think a certain bland wolf taking my place is more advised so you can actually talk through your feelings for each other.
Sirius: *blinks and gulps*

Erik: *tilts his head before clearing his throat* Only if you wish to. It’s… a touchy subject clearly. *nods* I think you have an idea of my position on trophy hunting. If not monitored… well, one hunter’s glory can turn into an extension of this expansion into the Great Green I suppose. Species becoming endangered or extinct… *sighs* That’s part of my view on the matter. If I recall correctly, your argument is that this act violates the practice of a proper burial and release for the prey, correct?

Lit Drake: Ah. *begins scribbling something* Well I doubt you're going to find it, Merk. Dad keeps information on himself on a tight lid. Usually it'd have to be himself or his Shadows who disseminate that information, and he's usually quite quick to silence that. I won't stop you from looking for it, but it's a waste of time. *walks away, dropping the scribbled note discreetly*
note: turn around, walk straight, third bookcase on your right, bottom shelf, black cover

Reverse Luke: Um...
Crey: *gasp* But...But, I'm already taken.
Reverse Luke: ...No comment... *walks away*
Crey: *blushing face emote appears above him* I'm flattered, but I think I like my men with more meat on their bones, you know? So I'm sorry, Sirius. But I can't go out on a date with you. Altrios, on the other paw...
Lit Gill: Aaahem, ahem! *gives Sirius a wink* If you're in need of attracting the gods...

Feral Wil: *nods* That's close enough. There are two great Ways and many minor Ways that all living beings live by. But the ones who walk on two legs, the humanoids, the No-Tails...
Half Luke: *rubs his chin* ...
Feral Wil: They are the only ones who Destroy without consuming, and consume that which they did not Destroy. I am not upset at them Destroying a wyvern, but that they denied its song from returning to the OneSong.

Merk: Ah. *blinks as Drake appears to scribble something. He elects to sigh and play along* Oh well, he appears to be sending mixed messages then. Although, he was perturbed this morning. *nods* I’ll look around for a bit more, then head back to the house. *Once Drake had left, he went to pick up the note, and proceeded to follow the directions to look for the black-covered book.*

Altrios: *rolls his eyes* Not what I meant, but hey we can go with this.
Sirius: I- look, every conversation we have seems to end awkwardly, ominously, or with him acting… eheh, weird. I… really doubt talking while I’m pinning him down is going to end differently.
Altrios: *Ignores him* Aw, come now. You’re acting like there’s no way to bulk him up. You can chat over a meal here, at the restaurant, at some other restaurant we don’t know about, in Lit Gill’s city… I could drone on for a bit, but the point is, if you wanted to fatten him up, there are options. And talking through how you feel might be healthier than complaining he’s bland and trying to ruffle his fur. Heck, I could come along, and it needn’t be a romantic meeting.
Sirius: …I’ll just go, if I’m not going to be listened to- *turns to leave, only for Porcius to be in his way, bulk and all*
Porcius: Well, I for one think Altrios is making sense. I don’t know what happened, but you and the Creator not being able to talk seems like it will cause problems in the future.
Sirius: *grunts* Porcius, if you did know- *pauses before sighing and grumbling* besides-
Porcius: *grins* I also think it’s an opportunity for you to bulk up too. Be a big dog leading us to victory.
Sirius: *sweat drops* That’s- look, if anyone should be flexible in their strategy, it’s the one leading the group.
Altrios: *chuckles looking down at the Creator* Well, the case has been made; more food will result in a meatier man, we both have the means to make it so, and you should talk through your differences. You sure I can’t persuade you with some words to sit down over some seafood pancakes and just talk?

Erik: *nods as he listens to Wil’s explanation* That’s… fair and honestly accurate. *looks to think* Would there be any room for change or adaptation? Asking the hunted if their body can be used to teach others, to use the village’s reasons as an example. That’s not to say I support the practice unchecked, as it feels like Destroying without consuming will lead to more friction. You just describe one way that friction can occur… hm, *looks like he has another thought*

*Searching through the bookshelf, Merk finds a multitude of colorful books. Only one of them has a black cover. Looking through it shows pretty much the same information that Erik had seen. Including the two entities that eventually became Creator and Destroyer.*

Crey: Hmmm...Y'alright.
*the Joltik creates a fancy round table with two cups of what looks like tea. He almost has to dunk his head over the rim to reach his tea, though.*
Lit Gill: Huh, is dad actually going to be a little honest about his internal thoughts? *leans closer with interest*
Crey: Sirius, I hate you.
Lit Gill: *facepalm* Is it too late to eat my own words?
Crey: No no no! Lemme explain. It's because you're now occupying some of Erik's, and on a lesser degree Merk's, time. Your existence means they have less attention to spare for my antics. So now I have to do crazier deeds to make them notice me, or fight you for their attention.
Reverse Luke: *from one of the chef tables* Have you never even tried to get to know Sirius as a person!?
Crey: Of course not. It's much easier to live a callous life if there are far fewer people precious to me. Much less stress about their well being and whatnot.

Feral Wil: I can see you are trying, Erik. But does the predator seek permission to consume the prey? I am...Honestly willing to allow them to use the silent bodies to spread wisdom to their cubs. But one of my greatest fears is their expansion. The greatest of hunters often hunt alone. What ravaged land will be left behind should they hunt as a pack? But they already instill a disquiet within me. To use false fangs and wear the pelts of other Good Beasts...
Half Luke: But you're already learning to overlook those things. You and your siblings are left in charge of the Reaper's Game, which happens in a modern city full of these No-Tails.
Feral Wil: Yes...A greed hive with towering spikes. But at least it is contained and not belching black clouds or spilling their black rainbows on the ground. If it had been allowed to...Spread...

Merk: *decides to give the book a quick read as it seemed like his renting it out wouldn’t go unnoticed, based on what Lit Drake told him. He seemed… mildly confused about what he was reading. He pondered if Erik knew more about this, based on how he was acting earlier. With his curiosity somewhat sated, he closed the book places it back where he found it before turning around to rejoin the others*

Sirius: *looks reluctant about joining the Creator at the table, however Porcius was insistent about him trying, so he sat down while the hog left to get them some food.*
Altrios: *gets off the Creator as he looks to Lit Gill* Maybe… *sweat drops as Sirius’ ears shoot up and his fangs were bared* Or maybe not.
Sirius: Wow just… don’t even be subtle. *listens further to his explanation* Ok, one I’m not sure father or grandfather spends any less time with or pays any less attention to you because of me. Or do I really need to point to… I don’t know, the World Government, Feral Wil’s trials, getting materials for Light Elly, or any other of the activities we do with your children. Two, your logic, or lack thereof, could LITERALLY be applied to any of father’s allies. I don’t see you picking on my other father, and he was furious about your pets egging on Jera’s rage and dad getting caught in the crossfire.
Altrios: *scratches his chin* I mean fair. I think you may be underestimating how much attention they have to spare. As Sirius so…annoyedly described, spending time with you and or your children is one of the activities we plan.
Sirius: *huffs as Porcius brings over a…sizable amount food to the table.*
Altrios: Eh…I can understand the feeling… but it does seem like you’ve singled out Sirius like suddenly everything has changed because of him. *shrugs* I’m not going to say it’s without reason, ‘cause there may have been events I’ve failed to notice here. But have you tried… I don’t know, talking with Erik or dad? Because it seems like you suggest an activity, and either or both of them agree to engage in it, for example going to talk with Lit Luke. *nods to Sirius* Sure, that one will play the Luke, the Vassal, or heck surprisingly enough, most of your kids it would seem and advise caution about the activity you suggest, if it is required. But ultimately it’s only advice, and Erik and dad have the final say in what activity they do. So… if you ask them to spend time with you, chances are they’ll accept, or decline because they’ve got plans elsewhere in the Fused World. As does Sirius, or me, or Porcius, or Korigen or… fill in the blank with any of our relatives or allies. The point is we’re here to hang out… and y’know, occasionally save the world from supernatural manifestations of lingering feelings and corrupt entities, but mostly hang out.

Erik: *sighs* Well, it was only a suggestion based on what I’ve seen. Most prey…don’t get the chance to comment, I suppose? Show acceptance, speak before dancing with the predator, something like that. *still, he was quiet through the rest of Wil’s explanation. Perhaps because he had no clear counter argument to that.* I… want to say the shaman we spoke to may offer a way forward. From how you describe it, it doesn’t seem like many individuals within village or similar settings can actually Sing, or care about the Ways you describe. Individuals like the shaman might offer a mode of safe expansion, a way of adapting to change. *The advice of the notification was still present in his mind, though he found it hard to side with the cities, even if just meant getting Wil to adapt rather than resist.*

*Back at the room...*
Lit Luke: And I'm saying the fried tofu place is the best, that's why they're able to last for so long!
Half Wil: But steak ramen, Luke! Steak in ramen!
Tech Drake: We still haven't tried the gyoza in the cosplay cafe.
Tech Elly: I'm craving pot-stickers, guys.

Crey: Oh yes, I'm well aware that my reasonings can be applied to anyone else. And I admit, I have singled out Sirius quite a bit. Mostly because he's Erik's kid.
Reverse Luke: *walks back towards them* The Creator isn't a fully mature...Entity, I will add.
Lit Gill: Well I will say, he tends to single out anyone that reminds him of himself. But he also considers teasing as his show of affection. If he really doesn't like you, like he says, he'd either ignore you or try to actively kill you.
Crey: Y'all are crazy. *drinks his tea* I dunno where you're getting these ideas from.
Reverse Luke: Mhmm...Yes, very convincing when you can't say that while looking at us.
Crey: *scratches his neck* Did you get that trope from a movie or something? How weird.
Lit Gill: *looks at the food Porcius had brought over* ...
Crey: Wait. Your other father? You have a dad other than Erik?
Reverse Luke: ...I...Uh...*shakes his head* I'm just not gonna...Say anything.
Lit Gill: ...Do Atherusians make babies like that? They get so fat they split apart? Like slimes?
Reverse Luke: Gill...

Feral Wil: I...Am somewhat hopeful, that you bring that up. It means even the No-Tails, or some of their number, realize the effects of their strange Ways, and are working to come closer to harmony with the OneSong. I still feel disquiet when near their hive, but further communication could be fruitful.

Merk: Hehe, based on what Half Wil described earlier, though you like what is tried and true, you do appear to be willing to experiment with what’s new. *looks to think* Unless chocolate in ramen is something I just haven’t thought or heard of. *looks around* How has the conversation been going since I left?

Sirius: Are you- then why- *glares across the table* Oh yes, Half Wil made that very clear that he’s-
Altrios: Hey hey, I’m gonna interject and maybe caution you against following that tangent. At least while you’re…frustrated.
Porcius: Eh… I mean, again with the logic, dad has five of us to look after, maybe more if our siblings were able to get away from work. So… it does kind of feel like Lit Gill might be onto something.
Sirius: *huffs* I… don’t see how I could remind him of himself. And he does sometimes ignore me, for your information, not that I’m seeking his attention outside of mission-related matters. And he did toss me into an arena with a lethal threat once without instruction, and has actively mused about injuring me or the others.
Altrios: Well, normally he ignores you when you’re complaining about something. And… I mean that’s technically not actively killing you. Bit of a stretch, but…Lit Gill’s reasoning does still make sense, and appears to have touched a nerve? *eyes the Creator*
Sirius: *blinks* I… I’m sorry I thought you knew. *sweat drops*
Altrios: Well yeah, Erik did mate with someone male. Charisuokun, or Casey ‘cause that’s a mouthful. At the end of a long, long courtship culminating in the ultimate boss battle for the fate of Atherus, only then did the Great High Overseer Erikon Erkanis create a family name, settle down into his new position and move unto the prospect of a heir to the position, among other things. *clears his throat* And the maturity filter’s still on, Gill… although I guess you’re talking more about breeding in this instance.
Sirius: *awkwardly munches on a steak, now not looking at the Creator* L-look, the point is you complained about dad not having as much attention for you when that’s demonstrably false. I’m more in agreement with Reverse Luke and Half Wil that you’re being immature on the matter, and I maintain you’re being highly illogical.
Altrios: I… think we established Lit Gill’s thinking may by closer to the heart of the matter.
Sirius: *huffs* And I’m saying we barely have anything in common…. *grumbles* I feel like he and dad are more similar than he and I, and even dad would admit the Creator’s more experienced than him.
Altrios: *rolls his eyes* Gee, it’s almost like you’re both in a position you dread and don’t have all the answers for all the time.
Sirius: …I don’t know what you’re talking about.

Erik: *smiles and nods* The feeling is mutual. I’m in the somewhat awkward position of trying to help you find a way forward when…I mean, let’s be honest, you raise points of concern with examples not just here, but back home. But… I do believe a way forward is to work with those who are doing as you say, and see if there are further points of compromise or adaptation. *pauses to think, feeling the instinctive need to tell Wil to run and prepare for a fight if those like the shaman could not be of assistance.* I would perhaps caution against attacking anyone else, unless accosted first of course, given that it may limit your options going forward. Avoid rash action, leave without letting them know what your position is, or at most inform them of points you will need to discuss during the next meeting. *As is, he was unsure the “hive” would be willing to speak further with Feral Wil after what happened.*

Lit Luke: *gives Merk a short glare before shaking his head* Whatever. *walks out of the room*
Tech Drake: *lets out a whistle* I think he likes you!
Tech Wil: Heheheh...

Crey: Okay, listen guys. I think we can all agree that Sirius is a little baby.
Reverse Luke: No we don't.
Crey: But it's not his fault. Clearly, we need to come together and work as a team to overcome this.
Lit Gill: I'm pretty sure he's just saying a bunch of buzz words and catchy phrases now...
Crey: And I think I know the perfect solution. Let's all put our phones in a bowl of rice.
Reverse Luke: ...That's...Dealing with water damage on your phone, not with your attention-seeking problems and projecting it on Sirius.
Crey: ...Oh. Huh. Then how about a song?
Lit Gill: How about you don't keep trying to avoid the topic?
Crey: *quickly slurps the tea* Oh wow, Altrios! I need your gut again! *hops onto him* By the way, where's Vance? Or whoever's the eldritch cat one.
Reverse Luke: How...How many of Erik's friends do you actually remember?
Crey: Oh well there's Erik and Merk, Sirius...Um...
Lit Gill: Didn't...Didn't a bunch of them go to an underwater dungeon and even play as bosses in them?
Crey: ...Cai...ju? Kaiju.
Reverse Luke: I have a strong feeling you're just feigning silliness to make us forget about your beef with-
Crey: Beef! Yes! We need beef! *generates an entire cloud of floating burgers...Which suddenly shoot off into everyone's faces, mostly slapping them when caught unawares* Who else is hungry?
Reverse Luke: ... *wipes meat sauce and condiments off his face talisman* Sirius, this is what bottling up your emotions and avoiding having to face it looks like. Don't grow up and be this emotionally stunted.

Feral Wil: Hmph, I will take your advice under consideration. But as it stands, it's unlikely that I'll be visiting them again anytime soon. Still, what they were able to accomplish, that...Art...Even Good Beasts could only dream upon dreams to interpret the OneSong in such a manner.
Half Luke: ...I guess you two are good now? Cause those three are getting restless.
Chesh: *honks the horn* Come on, we relocating these two wyverns to the steakhouse or what?
Monohebi: I thought we agreed to take them to a zoo?
Koryu: No, a wildlife preserve!

Merk: *chuckles* Well, I think he’s fibbing to himself if he thinks he only likes the old and the past. *looks between the children* Well, shall we head home?

Sirius: *growls* Want me to hold up a mirror?
Altrios: I mean… even if they’re buzz words, it would be great if he meant them *shrugs and rolls his eyes as the Creator hopped onto him* Mhm, I feel like you avoiding the issue is going to continue causing issues down the line.
Sirius: …Well, credit where credit is due, you got a relative right. He’s a dragon cat, or dracat and… eh, with how random he can sometimes be, I can maybe get how you’d think he was eldritch.
*When the burger swarm struck, most were caught unaware. Altrios craned his neck, Porcius eagerly opened his maw, and Sirius caught an unexpected mawful.*
Sirius: …*gulps hard* Bleh, I still don’t know what you’re talking about.
Altrios: …So you’re not working through any issues?
Sirius: None that I’m discussing with someone who can barely stay on topic.
Altrios: Welp, I’m thinking about putting you two in a room and letting you work out your differences. Preferably with him under your enlarged rump.
Sirius: …So yes, I have other tasks that need doing, assisting in saving the world and such. I’m sure the Creator’s busy as well. And so long as he gets dad and granddad aren’t going to suddenly stop paying attention to him because of me, we have nothing more to discuss.

Erik: *nods* That’s all I ask. *looks to Half Luke* I believe so. It’s to have a conversation I don’t feel like I made a dozen or so missteps. *chuckles before glancing back at the trio* Well, I am mindful about territorial jurisdiction, but I could take them into my care if you’d like. *shrugs* The spiny one at least. I may just turn the other into a great big firework… *looks to ponder* Eh, on second thought, he can come too. We can use a good barbecue spit back home. *snaps his fingers* Ah, that was the term I was looking for earlier. *smiles* Joking aside, I would advise relocating them as the original intention was. Or, at least check with the Fetish Group and see if their meat is even edible and won’t cause…at minimum bad indigestion and at maximum internal lacerations and… organ explosions?

Tech Drake: Yeah, sure.
Tech Elly: Let's.
Half Wil: *shrugs* I guess there isn't much else to do here.

Crey: Oh, were we having a discussion?
Lit Gill: Yeah, he's totally closing off the topic.
Reverse Luke: Good luck with your other duties, Sirius. We'll see to Uncle Crey's behavior.
Lit Gill: I wonder how long a fat gut could pacify him. If only it worked as well for him as it does for me. Ain't that right? *nudges Sarkon and Jera*
Mina: There is an option.
Lit Gill: *jumps a bit* Geez, Mina! Where'd you come from?
Mina: Hmm? Oh, I was heading to the forest to look for demonic activity. But I somehow ended up here. *steps out from one of the chef booths*
Reverse Luke: You say there's an option?
Mina: *nods* We could perform worship ceremonies for the Creator. It calms down his more aggressive behaviors, but it'll take hours to have a noticeable effect.
Lit Gill: How long does it usually take?
Mina: Well, the shortest ceremony was dancing at his shrine for roughly 20 minutes. But the longest ceremony I've ever performed lasted for 20 hours.
Lit Gill: ...Non stop? No breaks?
Mina: No breaks. It has to be continuous. He waited in line to purchase a new game, only to sell out right before he could obtain one. We had an earthquake ravage a nearby town during that entire ceremony.
Crey: I vaguely recall nearly destroying it...

Chesh: ...That sounds totally rad!
Koryu: Honestly? Yeah! Like eating those poisonous puffer fish, but taking out the venom sac first.
Half Luke: Okay! Let's get them rolling to a new territory where they won't be able to hurt anyone.
Monohebi: Okay, fine.
*The five of them, Chesh, Monohebi, Koryu, Feral Wil and Half Luke, all get to work relocating the blubbery monsters to a new habitat, leaving Erik by himself.*

Merk: Right, let’s head back then. *moves to leave the library with the others presumably in tow.*

Sirius: Ugh, just…why. *prepares to leave in a significant huff*
Sarkon: *rolls his eyes* If you're under someone heavy and being fed and fattened, you do seem fairly content.
*The demons and the others were surprised at Mina’s appearance.*
Jera: Ah right, your… wondrous lack of direction? Teleporting powers?
Sarkon: …Lack of control over her wondrous teleporting powers.
Jera: Fair enough.
*Still, the group seemed intrigued by Mina’s suggestion, though some seemed to question its effectiveness.*
Altrios: I mean…I have several questions, but alright.
Sirius: …*shakes his head* Or he could just ask me to leave. Because all the gods know father would probably say yes, as he probably will assist in the ceremony, even though this one seems content ignoring literally everyone and everything we do. *leaves for the house, obviously annoyed and frustrated*
Porcius: Sirius…
Altrios: …Now see, that’s why you need to be mindful when teasing him. Kind of makes him blind to the fact that we’ve been engaged in your activities for the most part, and perhaps something suggested by someone who knows you better than us, for obvious reasons, will work better.
Porcius: *scratches his chin* I uh… feel like he’s more annoyed at the prospect of doing something incredibly strenuous from the sound of it when he has no reason to believe it will work.
Sarkon: He may also not appreciate being the source of problems, especially not having done or changed anything.
Altrios: Yeah, he’s also not a dancer, but details details. We’ve got a few dancers in the family, a few more back home we can call if they aren’t here already. *nods to Mina* We can make this work.

Erik: *sweat drops* I mean… yeah? *sighs* Well, be safe and live life you guys. *bids them farewell before electing to return to the house, content that matters with Feral Wil ended on a higher note than normal.*

Mina: *shakes her head* I have no teleporting powers. I'm always so confused why everyone keeps saying that.
Crey: In all honesty, even I'm confused how you keep getting around without such powers as you say. And I'm pretty sure I keep a somewhat close eye on you when it happens, too...
Lit Gill: *watches Sirius leave* You're not gonna finish the food?
Crey: *crosses his tiny arms* Why does he get to be upset? When I get upset, everyone starts complaining how I should cheer up, or look at the bright side, or stop killing a bunch of guys in a tidal wave mixed with a tsunami tornado with sentient lightning.
Mina: *clears her throat* Thank you for offering your aid, but this sort of ceremonial ritual becomes more costly the stronger the target deity is. I'm simply using the Creator as the example here, but the goal is purely to calm him. It becomes more difficult the more upset he is, and the ritual fails if we miss any key details.
Lit Gill: But it's an option.
Mina: Yes, an option nonetheless. However...Since its intended effect is to calm him, someone will still need to resolve the cause of his unrest. Even if it's simple boredom, but Chesh is the one responsible for resolving that particular source.

*The two demons look at each other*
Jera: I... honestly side with the Creator on that point, Mina.
Porcius: *sweat drops* Eh... I could finish it, but this is part of his bulking. *shrugs* I can go to his room and bug him about it later. *snickers* You can come too, if you like.
Sarkon: *sweat drops* I... think you answered your own question. You essentially said you hate him because you think Erik's paying less attention to you because of him, cause chaos, mischief and mayhem to varying extents to win back said attention, ignore advice and evidence to the contrary , and are unwilling to discuss the matter with him, choosing instead to continue "teasing" him, again against the advice of those around you. All this, and rather than cause a literal storm, he's decided to help out around the world, up until this point at least, now that he's offered to remove himself from the situation.
Altrios: Hm, fair enough. *looks to think before continuing* Do you have a suggestion then Mina? I mean, with one source of unrest, we're working on it. By his own advice though, we're not rushing it because...well, best not to underestimate your foe and all that. But this...eh... I don't think the Creator wants Sirius to leave. And I don't think Erik's paying any less attention to the Creator. *shrugs* I don't get what the source of unrest there is.
Porcius: ...Is it because they fought that one day? The one the uh... Reaper Game? That got brought up and Sirius got really tense. Dad did object to... well y'know.
Sarkon: Huh, now that you mention it. He did seem agitated. I mean, it's a game of life and death potentially involving someone close to him, and involving Feral Wil who... ehem, we've had mild differences with. I understand his cautious stance, but he seemed especially fearful of the outcome.
Altrios: Eehhh, maybe we should let Mina answer the question first before conclusion jumping, hm?

Mina: ... *nods* It's himself.
Crey: Oh look at that! They're back! *skitters away towards Erik and Merk's group*
Mina: He's seeing a lot of himself in Sirius. So now he is projecting his issues onto him, making him the target of punishment when he wishes to punish himself. But he also recognizes that it is unfair to Sirius, which makes him wish to connect with him. That's why he doesn't wish for him to leave, and even teases him. But such blatant bullying makes him wish to punish himself further, and in turn punish Sirius further, which makes him wish to befriend him more...
Lit Gill: And on and on it goes until Sirius leaves the Fused World. Which could send dad spiraling...And maybe even trigger another apocalypse.
Half Wil: *looks at the fat Joltik* Hey dad, we're back.
Tech Elly: Ew, a bug. *lifts her foot*
Crey: No wait!
Tech Drake: *snaps a pic* Now that's a reaction face.

Altrios: *sweat drops* Alright, got it, convince him to stay.
Porcius: So uh… yeah, Altrios, you wanna-
Altrios: Yeah sure, I’m peckish. Still gonna make sure he gets the brunt of the food he left though.
Jera: …So scaring Sirius is actually impacting the Creator more than we realize?
Sarkon: *looks to think* I… can maybe see the logic in that spiral. The Creator does have a habit of punishing himself. So projecting that onto Sirius while at the same time wishing to connect with him…
Altrios: Okay, we’re agreed on a present course forward… but that still leaves the question on how to safely break the cycle. I think this is what Sirius needs to hear but… y’know to say this isn’t healthy for the Creator is kind of an understatement. If he doesn’t end up causing more friction with Sirius, he will with the others. What we do have going for us is that Sirius doesn’t actively hate the Creator. He’s wary of him, the randomness not helping nor the ignoring of even his closest allies, but he still supports Erik’s position, and will do what he can to help out here, be that going up against an army or giving advice.
Sarkon: …And there’s still the point you seem to wish to avoid Altrios.
Altrios: Eh? Don’t know what you’re talking about.
Sarkon: Something happened to make Sirius especially wary of the Creator’s games. I needn’t point this out, but him and your father are going to draw blood at some point with how often they bite their tongues.
Porcius: Eh? When did grandpa Merk nearly bite his tongue?
Sarkon: I speak of Khajaltan, who I gather is an additional witness to whatever you do not wish discussed.
Altrios: H-hey, seriously don’t know what you’re talking about. Like really, not being cute or funny, I actually don’t know. I do know that digging around isn’t going to help if it’s something they’d rather not discuss.
Sarkon: …Fair.
Merk: *chuckles* You two like to live dangerously way too much.
Erik: Of that, we’re in agreement. *looks to Merk* Did your trip go well?
Merk: Oh… errr… yes, we can now hang out with Lit Luke. He might appreciate our thoughts on new ramen recipes and also some assistance in coming to terms with the past and how it differs from the present. I… also wish to discuss something with you.
Erik: *nods, glancing at the Creator before speaking* I thought you would. *looks over to where the demons were, as it appeared there was a discussion going on* How about we discuss what happened once I’ve confirmed no one’s got a bellyache or such. I’d like to hear how Sirius’ talk with Merc Akira went as well. *leans closer* All I ask is that you talk to no one else about this, except perhaps Chesh, Des or the Creator himself. Understood?
Merk: Erm, yes.
Erik: Good. *looks around, speaking up* So, how have matters progressed here? Did anything happen while I was away?

Mina: With this business concluded, I suppose I should find that forest now. Take care, everyone. *goes around the house to the backyard area*
Lit Gill: I don't see what Lyle sees in her. She's too...Pure.
Crey: *waves his arms* Ooh! I like ramen!
Half Wil: Dad, are you going to stay a Joltik the whole day?
Crey: Well what if I do? Jealous? *The Lucky Hammer appears above him*
Half Wil: Nah, just checking. You can't play video games if you're smaller than the controller. *heads off*
Tech Drake: Speaking of games... *Blank wanders off*
Crey: Hmm. Was it my breath? *breaths into his arms*

Sarkon: *sweat drops* Safe travels?
Jera: *nods* That seems about the right thing to say.
Altrios: Eh, one of the world's great mysteries? *shrugs*
Erik: I mean, he has a fair point, Creator. Unless you shrink the controller down and that has no impact on the communication to the console.
Merk: Eh, I think it was just games. *shrugs* They were a big help in speaking with Lit Luke, though that should come as no surprise, given your recommendation.
Erik: *looks around* Where is Sirius by the way?
Altrios: Oh, err... around?
Erik: *sweat drops* Did something happen?
Altrios: Eeehh, nah. He just had something to do. *snatches Porcius by the arm and a cart loaded with food from the table* We'll go get him.
Erik: *raises an eye ridge* And fatten him up before our meeting?
Porcius: Hey, he left the food behind! We're thinking of Reverse Gill here.
Erik: *rolls his eyes* Alright, fair point. *waves them off before turning his attention to the Creator* But seriously, did you two fight again?

Crey: *gasps* Erik! I'm shocked you would accuse me of such a thing! I would never start a fight with anyone!
Half Wil: Sounds like you did.
Lit Gill: He sure did.
Crey: *hops onto Erik's head* Hmph! How rude of you all. I'm a god! That means I'm the pinnacle of perfection. It's literally in the definition of the title, and the majority of the world populace can't all be wrong.
Half Wil: That's a logical fallacy.
Crey: Your face is a logical fallacy!
*a screen shows up in the air and begins to play a recording. It was Half Wil running through back alleys, trying to avoid something.*
Half Wil: *in the recording* Dammit. These blood-sucking leeches just won't leave me alone! What does it take to get rid of these monsters!?
*He makes it out onto a main street, where he's cornered by a suited man*
man: Hi! How would you like to purchase some insurance!
Half Wil: Damn, these insurance salespeople are even worse than the vampires!
*Wil watching the screen had an odd expression. Gill was giggling into his hands, though. The insurance broker continued to pester Wil, all the while he made up a number of excuses to leave, to no avail.*
Half Wil: *to the Creator* Dad...Why are you showing them this?
Crey: Huh? Oh...Huh. Why did I? I forget.
Half Wil: Daaad.
Half Wil: Alright, I'll buy some insurance, but on one condition. You join me on my quest.
man: Quest?
Half Wil: You see, I'm actually an alien prince who escaped a civil war on my home planet and I need to gather a band of faithful allies to represent a peace council to the current rulers of my world. But after shortly escaping, there've been these assassins that are trying to claim my head to prevent the peace council from forming, so I not only require my allies to be charismatic, but I need them physically capable to hold their own in a fight. But I also recently learned that one of the kingdoms in the war is searching for a magic artifact of untold power that could potentially destroy the entire world if mishandled- Oh good! He left. Geez, that short story I wrote for school actually came in pretty handy...
Tech Drake: Heeey! You got one of those parasites off your tail!
*the screen shows Blank walking towards Wil, both holding shopping bags in their hands.*
Lit Luke: About time. You realize the dumpling sale is about to start in 30 minutes?
*Lit Luke also walks in holding several meat skewers in one hand and a large chocolate bar in the other, plus a bag full of candy hanging on his arm. It looked like they were a close group in Akiba.*

Erik: *sighs exasperatedly* Creator…
Sarkon: It’s also provably false. *clears his throat* Although I would advise against going down that route. It would… complicate matters.
*Still, when the screen appeared most of those present watched what went on*
Dojin: Bleh, some things ever change.
Erik: *rolls his eyes* Really. *It seemed like they were on Half Wil’s side on this issue. Still, he couldn’t help but admire how he resolved the issue. He didn’t even appear to use his powers to vanish from the man’s sight.*
*The rest of the video made slightly more sense as to why the Creator would show it.*
Merk: Now see, this is why I’m surprised he eats so much. It’s not a detriment obviously but…I don’t know, I would’ve thought he’d go for hanging out in an old bookstore still present after all the changes that have occurred in Akiba.
Erik: *still seemed focused on the issue* Creator, I appreciate giving us a hand in bonding with your children, but I can’t help but feel this is a deflection.
Sarkon: Erik, if I may, you might hear a more… nuanced response later. What you hear now may just be more confusing without context. *nudges Gill and glances around to see if Reverse Luke was still there, desiring for Erik to hear the full reason for the Creator’s grievance and not the abbreviated version.*

*Meanwhile in the house, Sirius was taking the news well enough, once that Altrios and Porcius managed to work their way into his room and sat down to finish the food they brought.*
Sirius: I just don’t get it. *idly munches on some dumplings* I don’t get what he sees in me that I don’t. That we could be similar in any way…
Altrios: Brings a whole new meaning to your mirror comment, hm?
Sirius: I just… I don’t doubt you two, and I don’t doubt Mina. But… I’m not going to get a straight answer from him and he sounds like he’s going to continue to pester me or heaven forbid, come up with more dangerous stuff for father to do or be more random around us.
Altrios: Ok, for one, I don’t think he’d suggest anything he didn’t think Erik was at least remotely capable of accomplishing. *sweat drops at the look from Sirius* Ok, he might. But he did advise caution when dealing with one matter, no? I’m sure it’s the same with these Trials.
Sirius: …
Altrios: Aside from that, if you want answers… maybe get them from him-but-not-him?
Sirius: What?
Porcius: Oh! You mean Des? Or Chesh?
Altrios: Bingo. They’re a good source of info on stuff the Creator knows but doesn’t want to admit. They might be a good place to start searching for a solution.
Sirius: I… don’t see how that is when he barely listens to their council now. Maybe Chesh’s, but there are reasons for that.
Porcius: The point is you shouldn’t leave. It’s… apparently more complicated than what the Creator describes.
Sirius: …

Crey: Please! When have I ever deflected anything?
Half Wil: *coughs a little* Are you sure about saying that?
Crey: I heard it after saying it out loud. Now before I put my foot in my mouth any further, good day. *blurs away*
Lit Gill: Aaand he's gone. So, Jera? Sarkon? Would you like to warm my bed tonight?
Half Wil: Ew, Gill! Not in public!
Lit Gill: As my bed cushions! Get your mind out of the gutter, Wil! *clears his throat* But if you two wanted to mate with me-
Reverse Gill: That's enough.
*Reverse Gill grabs his cousin and pulls him through a hole that forms in the ground. As soon as they're through, the hole closes up on itself.*
Reverse Luke: ...I'm still here, so...I guess I'll fill in any blanks for the explanation.
Half Wil: For dad's behavior and targeting Sirius a lot?
Reverse Luke: *shrugs* Yeah, pretty much...

Sarkon:... Well, add that to the pile of questions that should probably remain unanswered for now.
*The pair of demons look at each other.*
Jera: You're moving just a little too fast, Gill.
Sarkon: *nods* I'll consider the bed cushion offer, and see about making sure you have a blanket or buffet for your next visit.
Erik: *nods* If you would, Reverse Luke. Given there is a concern the Creator's version of events would be problematic... *sweat drops* I can see the merit to that argument, if only because he can be cryptic at times and this is a moment that requires clarity. So, why did they fight now? And to Wil's point, what is the reasoning behind the Creator's behavior and targeting Sirius?

Reverse Luke: Short version is he sees a lot in common with Sirius. Good news, he wants to befriend him, which includes teasing him a bunch. Bad news, he's also projecting a ton of problems he's dealing with onto Sirius, and then punishing him for it. That's why he targets Sirius a lot after you guys came to this place a second time.
Half Wil: Honestly, I can see a lot of the things they have in common. Low self-esteem, namely towards the position they're in as a god and as your heir respectively. They also tend to lash out when upset. Oh, and they do both have a sweet tooth for cold things.
Reverse Luke: Is Uncle Crey still doing that Assassination Classroom game with E-class?
Half Wil: Nah, semester's over for a while. The academy's getting a few renovations done in the meantime.
Reverse Luke: Anyway, I think we're getting Sirius to stick around for now and try to befriend Uncle Crey more. If he leaves and heads back to Atherus, Uncle Crey is likely to blame himself big time. And...It might be enough to put the World Government situation on hold.
Half Wil: On the bright side...He likes Sirius? As much as you and Merk, I think. He actively remembers his name when most others the name slowly fades away and...He just starts describing them by characteristic.
Reverse Luke: Also! He somehow didn't know Casey existed...Though I'm sure he has appeared here at least once, right?

Erik: *nods as he listens along* I see…then, the teasing blends with the punishment, or at least becomes hard to distinguish by someone who is already wary and…well.
Sarkon: *nods* Were you to hear it from him, he may have simplified it to that he’s jealous of Sirius, and thinks him being here means there’s less attention for you to give to him.
Erik: *ponders further* Leading me to potentially resolve the issue by sending him home, which is… the wrong idea, for obvious reasons.
Jera: Oh no, Sirius flat out said the Creator should ask you to send him home if his being there was such a big deal. So he was rather done with Creator, his explanation and his apparent disinterest in discussing the matter further.
Erik: Hence the speedy exit of Altrios and Porcius?
Jera: *nods* Pretty much.
Erik: I mean, I don’t disagree with Half Wil. He lacks confidence in himself. *shrugs* He gets caught up in what a leader should be, which is… at least partly my fault. I did unintentionally fill his head with stories that gave him a lot to look up to… and to fear, until… well, Luke seemed like a good role model. Him and some of the others seemed to agree the world was too dangerous to be youths in or for their siblings to not have a protector against. Case and point, five of their cousins were literally rescued from a laboratory. I will say he tries not to lash out when angry, usually opting for isolation. Additionally he uh… has a habit of not listening to his council, though when I say that I mean relatives such as Garo and Solbane, whom he considers under his and his team’s protection. *tilts his head at Half Wil* Does this mean we can’t bond? Oh boo.
Sarkon: *raises an eye ridge* Y’know, your lack of self-preservation coupled with the Creator’s varying restraint likely do not help your son work through his worries.
Erik: Eh… I mean, fair. *sweat drops* I-it’s just a game, not like we’re actually killing each other.
Sarkon: Mhm. That’s a rather important distinction to hammer home to the protective wolf.
Erik: Anyway, I’m pleased to hear the Creator likes him. I would like to resolve this issue though, if only for the collective sanity around here, and the progression toward what it is we’re trying to do. The Creator becoming moody and lashing out serves at least in part to complicate matters. *looks to Reverse Luke* Casey who?
Sarkon: *snorts* I swear, if he heard you say that-
Erik: *sweat drops* Alright, alright! Yes, he’s been here before. Once in the final battle atop Tartarus and once in my defense when… err, Chesh and Monohebi’s egging on of Jera- ehem, I mean he’s hard to forget. He came within inches of snapping off their heads.
Sarkon: …I feel like that does little to narrow down who he is in amongst both the populace of the Fused World and Atherus.
Jera: *sighs* Perhaps it’s best for you to intermediate between the Creator and Sirius? We don’t know if Porcius and Altrios have been successful. And I feel like you can nudge the Creator if he’s going too far and keep Sirius on track.
Erik: *sweat drops* Only if and when the Creator agrees to talk again. I would rather not presume his schedule, or… I suppose willingness, especially as he’s just teleported away.

Half Wil: Sounds like we have a plan.
Reverse Luke: Considering how capricious the Creator is, I can only assume the best case scenario is that he returns tomorrow with a bright personality. If not, then we may have a problem on our hands.
Half Wil: *checks his phone* It's getting late, I'm gonna head back now.

Erik: Indeed it does. *looks to think on what Reverse Luke said* Well, I suppose we’ll take it in stride. And I will try to speak with him, at least to see what he has to say, if not to resolve what’s on his mind at that particular moment. *nods to Half Wil* Alright, we’ll see you tomorrow hopefully, and thank you for your assistance today. *looks between Merk and the house* I suppose we need to talk before I go to check on Sirius?
Merk: Oh, I’m fine. I would like to discuss my outing with you, but that can wait.
Erik: *nods* Well, if time permits, we’ll talk before the day is done. I suppose it all has to do with our plan moving forward. For now though, I would like to see how Altrios and Porcius has faired.
Merk: *nods in turn* I’ll get dinner started.

Reverse Luke: Altrios and Porcius is with Sirius in his room, I believe. I'm pretty sure Sirius will get the important details and you can... *looks at Erik* ...What do you mean Monohebi turned your room into cake?

Erik: *nods* Alright, fair enough. We can speak now Merk.
Merk: Oh good. *clears his throat as Erik blinks* What's this now?
Erik: Err, just a... gift? *sweat drops* Well he's clearly concerned about me maintaining my figure.
Merk: Mhm.
Erik: Anyway, about your excursion- *before anyone else could ask about Erik's room renovations he dragged Merk off to have a private conversation about what he read*
Sarkon: *rolls his eyes* Well, given Monohebi and Chesh's propensity for randomness, including jokes about killing others, I suppose one of them doing something nice should be celebrated.
Jera:...Is this not a bit of a distraction however?
Fauxu: Nah. He does his best to adapt to the situation.

Reverse Luke: *watches Erik and Merk heading off* ...Okay. Well then. *turns to Jera and Sarkon* ...I honestly just got a bit too...Shocked by Erik's cake room thought. I um...Yes. *goes off to check on the other demons, just to assess the effect of Lit Gill's earlier lessons*

Jera: *shrugs* In a world where the chief god can transform it into a world of excess and indulgence on a whim, I don’t find it that shocking.
*Still, the demons seemed to be fully recovered from Gill’s earlier lesson, either by hanging out with their chosen ally, or by glutting themselves. The lesson did leave an impact on some. The ambivalent Dariann for one, who seemed curious about Gill’s methods and where they fit into the greater demon archetypal dynamic. And Baphormisith, who was so self-assured in what he thought power meant, only to be shown gluttony by Gill, to be coupled with the show of inverse gluttony by Erik and his allies. The others seemed more or less comfortable with their own tactics, save for Rabuth. He seemed to have a natural inclination for schemes, making others desperately hungry fitting well into that. If the exercise today proved anything, it was that those schemes had a strong tendency to backfire in the rabbit’s face.*
Sarkon: …Do you think any of them made an impression with Gill?
Jera: Hm? How so?
Sarkon: Like is he even going to remember any of them and want to hang out tomorrow or in the future?
Jera: *shrugs* They have stories all their own, from the most simple to the complex. How gluttony fits in with any of them will vary, and it is ultimately Gill’s choice how and if he pursues that. *looks to think* If nothing else we can facilitate a meeting by plopping one of them on top of him to placate him.
Sarkon: I find it hard to believe that trick won’t lose its effectiveness.
*Still, while the pair chatted, Sirius emerged from the house with Porcius and Altrios, fuller and more bloated than before and with the empty food cart pushed by Porcius. The wolf looked around and seemed somewhat disappointed the Creator was no longer there, although he was in a much better mood overall.*

*Meanwhile with Erik and Merk…*
Merk: …So he’s essentially a Shadow… for the entire world.
Erik: Yep.
Merk: And… he does not wish this fact to be known?
Erik: Nope. At least not by everyone.
Merk: But… why? As far as I can tell, this only impacts how he can do the things he does. I mean, arguably it explains why he can hear the thoughts, feelings and wishes of everyone because… well, Des exemplifies his connection with the Creator’s inner thoughts. And on that note, Des, his other Shadows, and his children. How… can a Shadow have Shadows?
Erik: Well, I have a hypothesis behind that last part. I’m still working out where his children came from. *nods* Needless to say, the presence of anyone whom Gill and Luke would call a brother raises many questions on top of the ones already present. But that’s a separate issue. To your earlier question, I believe the concern is what others will do with that information. The fact that you’ve reached similar conclusions and questions as I have is good but… well, he would prefer it if the information remained a close secret. So unless he directs anyone else to the library, we don’t mention anything on the matter to anyone. As far as we’re concerned, he is a being of immense power that works to shape the world; not a lie, but not the whole truth. Understood?
Merk: …Alright.

Reverse Luke: *nods to himself as he leaves the demons to their devices* Hmm...I wonder if Gill... *slowly leaves the property*

*Dinner eventually rolls around, with Light Elly, Blank, Shadow Lyle, and Tech Lyle staying in their rooms being left to their own devices. Although at one point, smoke emanated from Tech Lyle's room. The day was mostly finished while the night settles in.*

*The chefs were hard at work to produce dinner for everyone. Erik and Merk came out to join the others. The ice dragon was treated to the heartwarming sight of Sirius sat with his siblings and a few of his other relatives. From the sound of it, he was willing to include Altrios and the others in on their preparations for taking on the World Government... in an official capacity, and not one where the draolf and his team paid a night-time visit to one of the facilities that would put the others at risk. Generally though, Sirius seemed a bit more relaxed. He still had his mind on the mission, and there were still lingering doubts in his mind... but he didn't seem to mind slowing down and enjoying time with his relatives. A glance toward Tech Lyle's room caused Erik to sweat drop.*
Erik: I... wonder if I should check on him. Offer my capabilities as a fire extinguisher. *He elected to keep an eye on Tech Lyle's room to see if he had the situation in paw as he went to chat with those also in the courtyard.*

*With night and dinner time settling in, the majority of the Creator's kids were sticking in their rooms. Tech Lyle's room eventually stops smoking, thankfully, though he does come out with black splotches in his feathers.*
Tech Lyle: Well! That's one way to use gunpowder with iron minerals mixed in.
Light Elly: *walks out of her room, holding a pair of hedge shears-sized scissors* Fur. Need soft fluffy fur. *starts to stalk the halls of the house*

*It was more of a normal gathering for once, with everyone eating a moderate amount, aside from a few exceptions who by morning would be in possession of a bigger belly and plumper form. Shadow Lyle’s new stall would see a few customers to be sure. And oddly enough there was a small procession of individuals bearing cakes, pies and other sweets into the sleeping quarters of the house.*
Rufus: Is that what you were trying to do? If you’d like some tips, I could direct you to Masonori or Horacio. They’re pretty good at gunpowder manufacturing from scratch.
Sirius: *glances over at the house to see Light Elly, sighing slightly.* Is it bad that I don’t know what’s a joke and what’s a threat? *He muttered the question while trying to keep a more upbeat attitude so as not to sour the experience with the others with his lingering doubts and ponderings on how they should proceed in some cases. The jovial conversation continued, with occasional muted dialog about what they’d do tomorrow. Not that it was that much of a closed secret, but they weren’t sure who could be listening in. Eventually, Kanjin was dragged over by Altrios to chat and feast with them, the wily wolf seeming to want to get two particular stone-faced serious fighters to unwind.*

Tech Lyle: Hmm? Oh nah, I'm just experimenting with firework wicks and...Heh, using different plant fibers and measuring how long they burn out. Of course, it's also why you don't put the wicks and the gunpowder so close together. Anyway, time to clean up for the next experiment. *heads back into his room*
*All through the night, the Atherusians were having time to themselves, being able to enjoy their meals in relative peace and even returning to their rooms. Although a few notice some "bald spots" appearing on their bodies as the sound of soft footsteps and the grinding of scissors is heard. Light Elly returns to her room with a small bag full of fluffy fur and down for her new cushions.*

End Chapter