[IC] The War of the Three

[The 42nd Gecko]

@KoL

Miyu

Upon arriving at Hohenheim's invitation place, Miyu had shown off the Party-Mode Diamyo's full capability, namely, that it had a cooler with some snacks and drinks carried on the outside. Anyone that wanted one could ask, and Miyu'd say sure, but she wasn't going to bother offering them to people who'd probably just look at her funny.

She seemed largely apathetic about the whole deal, drinking some sort of fruit cocktail. However, Hohenheim did eventually manage to capture her interest with the nature of her nearly absolute barriers and mechanics to prevent shenaniganery.

Miyu got out of her mech and walked over to the side of cliff before the abyss. And she poked the tip of her wing over. Presuming it wasn't instantly destroyed, zapped, or otherwise attacked, she'd sit down with her legs over the side, grab two rocks, unite them with her unity magic, and throw one at the castle, paying special attention to the bacteria on the rocks to see if there was any difference in what happened to living and non-living. She seemed to be paying more attention to her experiments than to Hohenheim, albeit, she did apparently be listening a little bit.

"About how much dilly dally time do we have? I've got a couple experiments I wanted to run to see if I could figure out how that "no return from death" inter-dimensional pit and the barriers work. But I don't want to miss out on the later stuff." Miyu asked, as she had the Daimyo set a first aid kit by her side and start sterilizing a knife. She also waited to see if anything would happen to the rock in flight and/or on her lap.

Loadout Changes

Miyu did make a few small loadout changes to her Daimyo. It has a wakazashi now, and a first aid kit in the cockpit. Both of these were mentioned as intent earlier, but I forgot to actually post doing them. If that's not ok, let me know, plz.

[Awesomoman64]

Omega

After the loss of Alt Signia, Omega found himself aimlessly wandering the halls of Celestia. Choosing a more secluded part he walked alone accompanied only by the soft chink of his spurs that echoed through the empty halls. While others drank or sat around trying to forget their woes, Omega racked his brain trying to figure out what heaven’s next step would be.

This latest defeat had put them in quite a bind. Without the resources from Ruthia they wouldn’t have the power needed to make any grand pushes. Even if they did have them or managed to steal them back Alt Signia was the only facility they had that could actually use them. The unfortunate truth was, unless they got something to tip the scales back in their favor, the next major conflict wouldn’t go well for heaven.

“Excuse me. Are you Omega, The Divine Deputy?” A messenger angel called halting both Omega's train of thought and movement.

”I'm gonna let you guess, slick. Of all the hosts of heaven who do you think would go by a name like 'Deputy’?” He said holding out his arms to display his attire.

“Ah. Good point. Anyway I have a package for you from Miyu.” The messenger held out the small package which Omega eyed for a second before taking it from their hands.

"You haven't been keeping up with the times have you?”

“Not really. Why?”

”Nothing. Just that if you had you’d be a bit more cautious with this parcel.” Omega explained as he read the card that was on the package. He gave a short laugh as he finished, ”Well, nice to see somebody appreciates my efforts. Let’s take a gander shall we?” Slipping the note in his duster he reached to untie the ribbon, but stayed his hand after a sudden message from Deva entered his thoughts. ”Heh, duty calls once more. Here, kid, do me a favor and take this to my place will ya?” He tossed the unopened package back to the messenger and readied himself for teleportation. Hopefully this prize was just the thing the Angels needed to get back in the game.

---

The first think Omega saw as he was teleported to starting point was Miyu with a variety of drinks and snacks on her mech. ”Miyu,” he said calmly walking up to her and glancing at her “equipment”. ”You are without a doubt the strangest person I know. And keep in mind this is coming from an ethereal being who dresses up like a cowboy.”

After the rest of the brave souls who decided to brave Hohenheim's trials showed up, the Alchemist began raving of all the things she had in store and the rules that came with them. After she ended her spiel Omega turned to Juno. ”Hold on a minute, so if we lose we could get turned into test subjects while you get a fancy date? Seems a tad unfair if you ask me.” Omega jested as he checked his revolvers before twirling them back into their holsters. ”Won’t really matter I guess, since we’ll be winning this thing anyway. Right, fellas?”

@The 42nd Gecko@KoL

---

Balrog

Challenge. That was all he needed to hear.

When Rufus finished his speech, Grafdakka began convulsing violently. Dark orange lighting surged around him until he rose and a familiar though slightly robotic voice roared, ”WHO CHALLENGES BALROG?”

The powers of hell combined with Graf’s weakened mental state had allowed Balrog’s essence to seize control. No longer dormant Balrog was able to fully look over his new form. It was a bit more mechanical than he liked, but it’s potential for destruction was great enough for him to overlook that fact. ”This do. This do very...” Balrog stopped mid sentence as his gaze was caught by the large condom on his crotch cannon, which he had now apparently.

There was really only one person he knew who would do such a thing, and since she was present it all but confirmed his suspicions. ”Succubus,” He growled at Fran. ”You know rules. First Balrog crush enemies, then he crush pelvises.” He pulled the oversized rubber off and tossed it to the side as he stepped through the portal. Hopefully Henry’s dogs would try to eat it before he got home.

---

Balrog glared at the Alchemists castle through her whole speech. How he wanted to just send barrage after barrage of missiles at it until he turned in into a true work of art; which to him was just a pile of rubble. But, doing so might kill Hohenheim and ruin their chance at getting the “prize” that for all he knew could make more things go boom. Couldn’t risk losing something like that now could he?

When she ended he looked at the others, ”So. Who go first?”

@Lucius Cypher@floodtalon

[Flamelord]

Tatiana Lorenz

Karaoke with the Commanders had been fun, though Tatiana had ruefully realized that her singing voice wasn't as good as she had thought it was. It might not have mattered since that was the whole point of karaoke in the first place, So she enjoyed her time with the others, up until she got the message from Eos that they had another mission on hand.

First though she deposited the book she had gotten from the owner of that Mech in the last battle off at the recycling center. Honestly she didn't need the reminder of how she had died, and the joke gift was more annoying that anything. She'd get back at her for that next time.

The task was unusual, apparently a challenge run by one of the Independent factions in the war (Neutral implied uninvolvement, something that could not be claimed in the Nexus given that apparently everything was hostile to everything else all the time). They'd have to go, complete some challenges, and then get a reward. The only problem was that Eos didn't seem to be able to help out in any fashion, so they'd have to do this on their own. Which she wasn't that concerned with. She could manage.

Once she had gotten all her stuff ready she hit the button, and found herself teleported to their destination. "Someone's on an ego trip," she muttered aloud as she hefted her rifles, on the ground for the moment as she observed the castle. Small wonder she was banished, as the following speech accentuated.

Listening to the description of the challenges, Tatiana couldn't help but grin a bit, in spite of how difficult it would probably be. "What, only four challenges? I thought this was supposed to be difficult," she noted aloud with obvious confidence. Of course they would succeed in this challenge. They were the Machina; overcoming ridiculous adversity was what they did. Rebelling against Divinity tended to involve playing the odds.

Needless to say, she was fairly confident, and once the address had been finished she turned to look at the others for the plan. Time to show those other two groups just why the Machina were the ones who were going to win the war.

---

Tartys

While conversing with Torag, Tartys was pleasantly surprised to find herself approached by a courier, who handed her a package before heading off. She wasn't sure what it could be, given that she had not ordered anything nor was she expecting any packages. Looking it over though she quickly found the note, a smile gracing her features for the brief message that was written there. For all the hardship she had been put through Miyu had still proven herself to be loyal, so while she didn't feel like this was needed she would nonetheless accept the gift.

Opening it up, she found a small sculpture of a snake inside it, hand made and beautiful in its simplicity. She wasn't sure why it was a snake, perhaps her armor, though she would have thought a lizard was more appropriate there. She wouldn't reject the gift though, and kept it close by so she could store it in her quarters later. At about that time the summons came, and Tartys rose to join the others who had been called in listening to what the Imperator wanted of them.

With the letter they had been shown, it seemed that they would be taking part in a challenge proposed by some third party in the Nexus. They had been chosen to brave the challenges, whatever they might be, and claim the reward for the challenge at the end. Fairly simple as far as objectives went, though she had no doubt that actually accomplishing their goals would be a tad bit more difficult. Third parties traditionally were not on their own simply by the goodwill of the other factions.

But they headed out, Miyu allowed to come with and Juno coming along too. That made Tartys a bit more nervous than she had been otherwise, if only because Juno ha demonstrated her willingness to throw the rest of them under a falling boulder if she felt like it. That would definitely impact their ability to succeed in this challenge.

With Miyu's gift stored away, Tartys soon fund herself with the others at the entrance to their destination, resplendent in shining armor and spear honed to a sharp knife. There were two other groups with them, the other factions having arrived to take part in this challenge. She hovered slightly above the ground as Hohenheim explained the challenges that they would be going through, and it looked like it would be quite difficult, especially with the restrictions on advancing through the various challenges.

"Well then. I suggest that we be careful," she noted to her allies. She didn't want anyone captured and left stuck with the Alchemist if they could help it. Eternity was too long for a fate like that. Specifically to Miyu she added, "Thank you for the gift. I'm glad that you're back with us."

@KoL@Awesomoman64@The 42nd Gecko

[Gardevoiran]

Bonesword

~Intermission~

---

With a new body in tow, the skeleton pressed forward, his little stump-minion coming with him. Stumpy hung around to carry the needless stuff with him, like booze, fruit snacks, and spare swords (despite these being ordinary swords). He stood in front of the teleporter, observing the thing for a minute. He was told by Eos that there was a series of 4 challenges awaiting all those who were willing, and by god was the swordsman willing. Bonesword crowded into the teleporter, sitting on top of Stumpy, and pressed the button that sent him directly to the castle of the Alchemist.

Once there, he rode Stumpy and waited as he heard the challenges being announced. They weren't actually all that bad, in the skeleton's opinion. It was largely just a bunch of trials that he couldn't even break the rules for if he wanted to. He continued listening to the Alchemist explain the rest of the challenge as he sipped his bottle of whiskey, the booze dripping down and being collected in a plastic bag the swordsman taped to his ribs prior to coming. Who knows when someone needs a drink that wasn't really drank?

After the alchemist finished speaking, the swordsman looked for any fellow Machina that he could group up with. Not before long he found a soldier for the Machina. He approached her and spoke to her. "Hey, fellow Machina soldier. Care to team up with this swordsman for this? Strength is within numbers, after all." Bonesword was closing his bottle of whiskey as he said this, and he gently placed it within a knapsack tied to Stumpy.

@KoL@Flamelord

[Lmpkio]

Ghelgath Fenrir Calder-Berg

@floodtalon

Ghelgath listened to Hohenheim's rules about the little "game" at hand. He couldn't help but chuckle in glee. He feels like this is going to be a rather fun game to participate in. Several levels and stages, all sounding like much fun. Yet out of the five stages, he knows which one he's going to ace without any trouble at out. He was molded by the cold, he LIVES in cold, and yet he's so cold, hot heat actually affects him if exposed for such long periods.

Perhaps it will be better if Ghel joined a group or at the very least/most, a single partner. He could always send out his golems or goons, but he'll be saving them for later. That way his magic can be reserved for say... the final stages if anything. But to think he'll play clean... is to say that mud can be clean. He'll need to partner up with someone of his own. Even if he doesn't it'll be ok, but it's better then going alone.. He then sees good ole' Henry, perhaps one of the most relatable people in Hell's doors. Giving him a nice budge on the shoulder, Ghelgath simply chuckles as he invites him over.

"My main partner-in-crime Henry," he says to him quietly while winking confidently, "Waddya say we team up on this one, eh?"

---

Zeruel

@Awesomoman64@TheWindel

Zeruel was not amused at what he was seeing and hearing. A game? A simple insignificant game? He thinks it's rather pathetic. He signed up to square off against some demons, not against some simple game. To him, it's going to be all too easy. He can easily get to the end without getting sunk or held back by many forces. He remains silent, all until Hell's brute, Barlog, asks a simple question.

”So. Who go first?”

It's best to get this game over with. The Arm Of God steps forward, having no care to anyone that he "shoves" out of the way. He wasn't doing this competitively, but again, rather to be finished with this little game. Glaring sinisterly at the castle's host, he speaks loud and clear.

"Confidence born of ignorance..." he booms in reference to everyone else that was in the room, as he crosses his white muscular arms, "This insignificant challenge is miniscule compared to real challenges I've fought over the eons of my existence. You rudimentary figures of blood and flesh, will be shown how effortlessly I will beat this little game..."

I demand myself to journey first."

[Flood]

Henry Pearl Avaritia The 2nd

@Lmpkio@The 42nd Gecko@Awesomoman64@Lucius Cypher

---

Henry listened to Hohenheim's rules, right until she reached the third part where he got bored. He then looked over at Miyu and smiled maliciously. He picked up a nearby rock and tossed it at her mech to get her attention. When she looked over she would see him holding a collar similar to the one he had put on her originally. His intent was quite clear.

Ghelgath walked over and budged him, making him shudder slightly but not because of the cold. He didn't like other people touching him, it was annoying. But he got over it quickly, smiling back at Ghelgath. "Hell yeah, where have you even been? The war has been feeling a little lukewarm without you around Frosty."

Balrog asked who wanted to go first and Henry looked at Sliske. "I nominate the guy who dipped out of the last battle. Have him show off his spooky new power." He said that last part in a mocking tone, hoping to get Sliske pissed off. An angry fighter was usually a stronger fighter.

The some asshole angel started yelling about how great he is. Awesome, just what we needed in this thing that was supposed to be fun. "OR... the glorified pigeon with a ten foot pole up its ass. That's fine too."

[Mega Birb]

Sliske Arkilius

Having found himself and his minions in the wrong location, Sliske openned up another rift to the edge of the Nexus. Specifically, to the doorstep of the Alchemist where everyone else was gathering for the coming trials.

He arrived just in time to hear the description of the challenge from the Alchemist. While some either ignored the warning of what was to come or went off into their own conversations, the incubus was forcing some of the skin on his left forearm to change colors to an inky black. This minor transformation was writing in the native tongue of most demons; Ozkavosh, and he was taking down every significant detail of what the Alchemist said. He finished 'writing' a short moment after the head honcho of the oddly built castle before them ended her speech. This was the last chance he would have to back out of something like this... and instead, turned to the Warfather beside him. "Spawn us some imps, will you?" His hand met the priest's chest and briefly assimilated into it, only to be pulled out a moment later as the monstrocity set to work bending magic.

Sliske's ears perked slightly when Henry decided it was a good idea to try and invoke his wrath, which would usually work. To an extent, it did. The taunt made him mildly annoyed, although he couldn't help but chuckle through it. "Henry, if you really think I'll go out on a narrow bridge first, you're sorely mistaken." He turned around as a fleshy growth started to form near the Warfather, soon bursting to let out five fresh imps. Cannon fodder. "Besides? Why send a powerhouse when a minion gets the job done?" His ambition of keeping everyone alive for a little while as a hulking member of Heaven's forces demanded that he cross the bridge first. The incubus cracked a smile and relocated himself to the start of the crossing, bowing forward slightly and holding his right hand out, not unlike a doorman. A classic signal to allow him the first cross.

@floodtalon@Lmpkio@KoL@Awesomoman64

---

Syphax Gallus Aquilus

At what could be considered base camp for the factions on the edge of the Nexus, the tension could be cut with a knife. Syphax, however, appeared carefree as always. He was pacing while listening to the Alchemist's description of what the whole challenge thing was about and what the challenges were about. Nothing concerned him hugely, except the maze of frozen experiments, kept far below zero. He was a harpy, and not one of the winterized kind, so he'd only be able to stay in that area for an hour at best...

All things considered, he could probably brute force parts of the maze and manage perfectly well, or stay near the demons and cripple them with misinformation. They would probably be fine, most of them even radiating heat, except one that was chilling the air around him. One other thing he wanted to test was the truthfullness of her claim to what was basically a gravity well around the castle. His talons clicked while he strode over to the cliff and extended a wing over the edge, the increased gravity pulling hard on it. Not even the sheer strength behind his strokes would combat this. The bridge it was.

"Damn... well, I'm grounded. And uh... Miyu, was it? Mind if I steal a snack or two? Haven't eaten all day." He came back from the edge and approached the mech, jumping into the air and hovering about where he guessed the cockpit was, at about chest level on the thing. Sure, he was an amgelic being, but he still had a stomach and it was empty from his adventure in Hell. Speaking of which, he noticed a familiar skeleton standing with the Machina's forces, to which he waved to. If Deva was watching, she'd probably chew him out for that later.

"With who was have here, hell yeah we will! The three of us will tear this up if we stick together, four if Dora shows up." He smiled down at the spirit berating Miyu, giving him a thumbs up. "Name's Syphax, by the way. Yours?"

@Lmpkio@Banana@Flamelord@Awesomoman64

[KoL]

Eclipse Princess
^{Current Location: Hohenheim's Castle}

@Lmpkio @Grombus @Banana @floodtalon @The 42nd Gecko @Mega Birb @Awesomoman64 @Ryonara @Flamelord @Lucius Cypher @Lonewolf685 @TheWindel

When Juno was called by the Imperator, she was sprawled over her bed, after trying the present given by Miyu and finding that it was a bit too small. "Hmph..." Juno put the thing aside, dressing her usual casual attire in place of it.

After listening to the whole briefing with speaking as much a word, mostly because she was eating a pack of strawberry Pocky that she bought on the lower dimensions, Juno nodded. "We just have to do as that person said, huh? Nom nom~ Fine."

At teleport later and Juno would find herself before Hohenheim's castle, listening to the Alchemist's swagger. At least Hoho had being considerate enough to get a ticket for an all-paid date for Juno and 'that person', so there was no reason for the Spatial Valkyrie to get bored and just go back home to play her video games. "Ok, but you better not be lying." Juno yelled, knowing that Hohenheim would be able to listen to her well enough.

"We are kinda like one another, Hoho and I. There's somethings I can't tell you. Nom, nom~" Juno replied to Omega, after the ghostly cowboy approached her, all the while devouring the supply of treats that was loaded on Miyu's mecha, since no one else looked like they wanted anything. Though, as a hint of wat she was talking about, Juno pointed to the tornado like clouds behind the castle. If Omega had good eyes (or any eyes), he would be able to see faint wisps of what looked like the body of a huge (as in dimension sized huge) serpent coiling around the Nexus borders as if it was the only thing keeping the chaotic matter in place. He could make of that hint what he wanted, though.

"I'll be back." Juno pushed a pack of potato chips on Omega's hand and went after Miyu when she noticed the angel going dangerously close to the edge of the world. "You don't want to fall down there. You can't fly and all that, you'll fall to the void forever, even if you die." Juno kicked a rock down the edge as she lifted Miyu by the scruff of her neck, dragging the Angel back with a hand as the rock was slowly being unmade by the power of the spatial vortex. "If you do anything dangerous again I'll hit you over the head. Nom, nom~" The Spatial Valkyrie warned Miyu, not unlike a mother chastising an unruly child.

"So, what are you all waiting? The door is beginning to close. Nom, nom~" The purple-haired warrior asked as she resumed eating the chips she left with Omega.

Ni-Mu
^{Current Location: Hohenheim's Castle}

"..." Ni-Mu stared blankly at the world around herself as she was activated for the first time. The orders of the High Queens had already been downloaded and assimilated by her processing core and before she could even take a step out of her stasis pod, she activated the teleport program that would take her to the fortress of the Alchemist of Genesis.

The prototype listened to every word from the Alchemist, processing every bit of information that could give the edge over her foes. For this battle the Machina were severely outnumbered and outgunned, anything that they could use at their advantage was needed to be seized immediately. "I'll call a card, then. Targeted at the Angels of Heaven." Ni-Mu said in a low monotone. Considering the information she had loaded about Tarot cards, the most sensate option was to have it target at an enemy, given the odds. Putting trust at their foes was a stupid move as well and, finally, the Angels were the ones with a number advantage, plus Eclipse Princess on their side. Logic dictates this course of action.

"Heh, heh. So much for trust others' good will, eh?" Hohenheim quipped as she shuffled the deck before drawing the card V - The Hierophant and discarding it. "How convenient, The Hierophant, to the Holy Whores. Hahaha! Well now, a double folded blessing within a curse. Protected by the Divine and at the same time restricted by it. I guess that's luck for the Angels, then. This card would force whoever drew it to obey one of Deva's orders to the best of their ability, in exchange for a blessing of her choice that will last until the end of the game. Considering that the Angels already obey her no mater what, that's just a free buff for their team."

"Now then, O Mighty Emperor of the Heavens. Make your choices, what orders and what boons do you have for your vassals? Try to not exaggerate too much, because they must balance each other, by the way." Hohenheim's voice reached all the way to Deva's chamber, who got informed of the conditions of the call from the Alchemist just as Hohenheim spoke.

Ni-Mu ignored the botched draw and began walking to the gates at a normal run pace. That was a game of odds, naturally something like this could happen. The only thing that mattered now was reaching the Gate before the others did and try to take some of her enemies down with an ambush on the narrow passage as soon as she had the chance.

[The 42nd Gecko]

Miyu

@Awesomoman64

"Oh yeah, partner, I'mma definitely able to significantly affect who wins this here game!" Miyu responded back to Omega with all the obviously false cheer and drawl she could muster. "That's why I gotta keep myself at 100%, otherwise poor widdle Juno might get in trouble." She ended with a wink over at her chaperone, who was approaching with a somewhat unsettling appearance. "More seriously though, yeah, I'm... Uh.. Well, I'm just trying to uh.. stay positive?" Miyu did not look particularly positivie.

"Looking good Balrog, loving the new bod. I haven't seen that model before. Looks a bit like a Grafdakka creation." Miyu yelled over Omega's shoulder at Balrog, having no idea how kind of right she was.

@Flamelord

"Oh, uh, you're welcome Tartys. To be honest, I didn't have any idea what to get you, so I just got something I liked and gave you a copy. Still, I guess it is good to be back.. And maybe we could hang out sometime or something so I really know what to get you next time. Was thinking about making it an annual thing?" Miyu shrugged and looked uncertain of herself.

@floodtalon

When Henry threw the rock, it did indeed gain Miyu's attention, with her looking around for a few moments to see what the cause was. When she spotted him, her expression was surprise for a moment before becoming a wide toothy grin. Raising a half-drunk glass and a bottle, she toasted them against one another in his direction before drinking up. From the bottle, not the glass.

@Lmpkio@Awesomoman64@floodtalon

A moment later, Zeruel started doing his... thing.. And Miyu looked at him and then back at Henry and Balrog and rolled her eyes. She mouthed and did the hand motions for her earlier, "GRRR FANCY WORDS GRRR JUSTICE GRRR I'M BETTER THAN YOU GRRR JUDGEMENT!" tirade about Angels who acted like stereotypes.

@Mega Birb

"No prob man, help yourself." Miyu responded to Syphax. The snacks were going over far better than expected. She wasn't really sure if he was talking to her or Omega, so she responded anyway, "I'mma Miyu."

@KoL

At which point Juno arrived and treated Miyu like a cat. Juno may be used to hanging around super-strength people for whom it didn't matter, but normal level people aren't generally used to having their bodyweight and some change focused directly on their neck from the back. That was not a thing people were built for, unlike cats, for whom it's still not a great idea for cats once they're fully grown and there's some significant square-cube law going on. The result was an instant reflexive undignified panicky wingflapping that would likely slam right into Juno's face or something as her body tried to do something about the sudden unexpected pain.

However, in a moment, after she realized what was happening, Miyu activated her magic to spread out the force so that she'd be fine and stopped struggling. And she began sassing back as usual, as soon as she conquered the lingering pain.

"Um... I'm about to cross a narrow bridge while potentially drunk where one misstep will throw me in the same situation while people from other factions who wish me harm on both a factional and personal basis watch. Then I'm going into the home of a person who can inflict worse fates than mere death, who has promised to use me as an experimental subject if I screw up. Or probably if I'm just not entertaining enough. Care to inform me where the lines of dangerous or not begin? And why even care? Even if I die for realzies, you guys could literally give my stuff to any other angel with no useful traits, let them train with my stuff for a month, and you'd have all my vaunted value to the angelic cause back. Probably more so, because they statistically wouldn't have my penchant for talking back, cowardice, or betrayal." Miyu drained the half-finished and half-spilled glass, that at this point barely had anything in it, before having Daimyo toss her a small bottle, and Miyu started opening that. "That Angelic Cause that is so important of 'Continue everlasting war because the Nexus demands it in which victory isn't actually the goal'. Whee, I'm so glad to have been born with such a glorious and barring perma-death pit otherwise inescapable destiny!" Miyu was a complainy drunk, it seemed. Or, well, maybe she wasn't drunk and she just randomly swung between faction-bridgingly cheerful and endless whiny sassery anyway (My personal bet). That said, after this next bottle, given her bodyweight, drunk would likely be inevitable.

As the first card's effect happened, Miyu started paying a little more attention. That was kinda interesting. "Hey, hey, Hoho, do you call down cards on factions only, or can you target specific people?" Of course, Hoho hadn't paid attention to her last question, so Miyu was expecting to get ignored again.

[Flamelord]

Tatiana Lorenz

Tatiana looked over as she was approached, to a figure that IFF tags said was Bonesword. "I don't see why not," she replied smoothly. "We are on the same side after all. Just try and keep up." Maybe she couldn't fly very far with this gravity thing, but that didn't mean she was going to take it slow.

She was about to go on when their new ally decided to call for a card, and right off the bat gave the Angels an advantage. Note to self, never have her call a card again. With her luck thus far she'd probably give one of the other factions the victory for all their efforts. Which, naturally, was something that she'd prefer to avoid if possible.

Still, it seemed they were on the march, and her thrusters activated as she skipped along towards the bridge. "Let's go," she called to Bonesword as she did so, rifle at the ready. Time to get this show on the road.

@KoL@Banana

---

Tartys

Tartys nodded to Syphax as he arrived, soon followed by Juno and Omega, with another angel that she could not immediately recognize presenting himself and demanding to go first. At least she didn't have to look to test the gravity here, to know that actually trying to fly was dangerous, and so she didn't. It would not be seriously debilitating, for a mission like this.

Looking to Miyu, she nodded in agreement. "I would like that," she confirmed. Obviously they would all get out alive, and at the very least she was not going to ruminate about the fates worse than death that could be delivered unto them here. Really though, one had to wonder what the purpose of this war even was when there were beings in the Nexus who could force their will upon all hree factions at once without consequences. Though Miyu decided to drink herself into oblivion wasn't really inducing all that much confidence in the first place.

But that pales compared to what happened next, with the Machina calling for a card before they even made it into the castle and unintentionally giving their faction a boon. She didn't know what it was, nor did she have an idea as to what would be useful, she merely looked to their new companion as she noted the moves of the others. "If you wish to go first ten we had better move," she pointed out. "The other factions are not waiting." With that she started towards the door, not moving so fast as to leave everyone else behind, but quick enough that it would hopefully instill some sense of urgency in her comrades. Time was wasting after all.

@Lmpkio@Mega Birb@KoL@The 42nd Gecko

[Ryonara]

Hibiki & Shizuka

Hibiki and Shizuka were relaxing back at home, with Hibiki playing video games and Shizuka working on her rituals. Shizuka had just finished lifting the spell that forced her to be near her sister, as well as removed the life link, though Shizuka still intends to stay near her sister whenever possible. Hibiki always questioned why her sister insisted on making the life link in the first place, but Shizuka had her reasons. She knew that while she fought for the Machina of man, her true loyalties was with Hibiki herself. If Hibiki ever chose to defect and join a different faction, Shizuka would follow her. And Shizuka was certain that the others in the Machina knew this, and if Shizuka didn't make the life link herself then surely they would have tried to force Shizuka's loyalty to the Machina somehow. So now without the life link, Shizuka felt unsure. She was still loyal to her sister of course, and their recent accomplishments have earned them some favor with the Machina faction, but Shizuka couldn't help but feel uneasy here. All this fighting made it hard for Shizuka to relax like her sister.

Sensing that something was bothering her beloved little sister, Hibiki threw a pillow at Shizuka. "Hey! Let's play a game." As the two sisters played some games together they received Queen Eos's message about a new mission. They've never heard of this Alchemist before, and Shizuka wasn't too certainly about joining this mission. Looking at her sister, who's mechanical leg was quite obvious right now, Shizuka would rather much just stay at home for now. Alas, Hibiki in all her sisterly knowledge, knew that Shizuka was thinking of this and stood up with her sister.

"We're definitely going. Specifically, you are!"

Surprised, Shizuka immediately tried to plead with her sister. "Hawawawa! No, can't we just stay home this time? You almost got killed last time!"

"Psht, so did you! Besides, I got a plan... I'm not climbing the tower with you." Before Shizuka could question it Hibiki raised a finger to Shizuka's lips, her way of quietly telling Shizuka to shut up. "You just unlocked your new rituals for your wings, and it hasn't been properly tested yet! This would be the perfect opportunity to do so. And we both know that until I can upgrade to a new leg I'll only slow you down. Not only that but as Eos had said, we wouldn't be able to rely on her for information. So instead I'll see if I can't use my drones to scout around while you climb the tower. This will be good training, and this way I'll be out of any direct danger."

"Sis, you can't be sure of that! The nexus always has a way to make things worse. What if you get attacked while you're scouting for me? Or if you get taken prisoner? Besides, this tower challenge looks too difficult for me to do alone..."

"You won't be alone, the other Machina would be there with you. Listen sissy, you're a strong girl. You took on the Leviathan all by yourself! Unlike me who lost a leg and was nearly left for dead the last two times I tried to go on my own. Hell, you even survived that surprise explosion. I believe in your Shizuka, now how about you believe in me, hmm?"

Shizuka looked down at her feet, uncertain. When she was resurrected in the Kingdom of Heaven, she was raised to be docile and follow orders. That by following the Deva's commands and laws, Shizuka would never suffer. And at first this was true. Shizuka never had to do anything hard or stressful, and even her training was fun. But Shizuka ran away from heaven to be with her sister, even if that meant not only making the forces of Heaven Shizuka's enemies, but suffering through the Nexus as well. All of this just to be with Hibiki. And Shizuka wasn't sure what she'd do if Hibiki wasn't with her. But just as Hibiki could tell what Shizuka was thinking, she too could understand Hibiki's motives. Her elder sister just wanted Shizuka to be able to stand on her own two feet instead of being a tag along of Hibiki. Even if that's exactly what Shizuka wanted.

"I... I guess I can... But if you can't find somewhere safe, please stay with me! I don't want you trying to be in danger when I can't reach you."

Shortly after the two girls suited up. Since they had a bit of time instead of being forced out all of the sudden, they were able to change into their combat armor and geared up. Without Ascalon Shizuka chose to leave the Valkyire's weapons at home, since her combat armor would allow her to use the Rocket Hammer. It might not be magically enchanted to slay demons, but as long as the demons aren't immune to getting their skulls caved in, it would be more than fine. Hibiki herself made one slight modification to her Bastion Turrets: she can now detacht the main gun and carry it herself, which she normally couldn't do if she wasn't wearing her combat armor. While Hibiki is hoping to play a more supportive role, she was always a fan of cunning brutality. After all, no one expects the maid to tote a minigun.

Once geared up the girls activated Queen Eos's teleporting program and arrived just in time to hear the Alchemist speak. She was generous enough to explain each stage of the challenge. Hibiki was eagerly taking recordings while Shizuka just listened. The first stage was fairly simple enough: get across the bridge to the other side. The only issue however was that there was only one bridge, it's very narrow, and they would have to try to compete across against the other factions. The second challenge was basically a race to the elevators, or failing that a game of king-of-the-hill as whoever is left waiting in the lobby must fend off whatever the alchemist sends at them. The third challenge was much the same but with a maze and faction locked elevators. Shizuka wondered how often she could use her flying for these parts. At the very least, she'd like to be able to simply fly up the elevator shafts. Probably not that simple however.

The fourth challenge was basically a boss fight. Seems simple enough, but knowing that their host was some sort of mad scientist, there is like an eldritch abomination waiting for them. Fortunately it seems like fighting the guardian was optional, though no doubt it'd made ascending far easier. The last stage was meeting the Alechmist herself, which arguably was one of the most dangerous parts of the tower. At least with the other four levels the chances of Hibiki and Shizuka dying was there. Who knows what might happen if or when they actually meet this person.

Hibiki and Shizuka looked at each other and quickly formed a plan. While they should work with their allies, Hibiki still had everyone on comms, so assuming that they came properly geared they should be able to hear them as well. Reaching up to the side of her helmet Hibiki tried to contact her allies. "Hello? Commander Hibiki here! I should make up a cool codename. Anyways, if you can hear me then you must be on the Machina local Comms. I can't say I have much of a strategy here, but scooping out our competition I have a few ideas. I think I see Grafdakka with the Machina, and if he's still anything like the Grafdakka we know, he won't be too interested in problem solving. Assuming that he isn't eliminated soon watch out for his attacks, but take advantage of them too. What can hurt us can hurt our enemies as well. I also think I saw Juno somewhere around here... I'd be careful around her, but she's powerful too. If what the Alchemists said is true, then Juno could easily subvert the teleportation interference around the tower. Could be important!"

Soon a new member of the Machina went ahead and drew a card for them. Hibiki has never heard of this newcomer before and cringed when she chose to target the Angels of Heaven with a card that'd mostly just give them an advantage. How fortunate for them. Then the same girl ran ahead on the bridge. "Well so much for a strategy talk..." Hibiki said to herself. She then turned towards Shizuka and handed her three things: A deployment pack for a Bastion Turret, one of Hibiki's repair drones, and a the Stalker Cloak. "You'll need these more than I would. Catch up with the newbie and watch her back, work together, and get to the top of the tower!"

Shizuka took Hibiki's gifts and nodded her head. The time for hesitation and doubt was long passed. Without further due Shizuka ran after Ni-Mu, quickly catching up by using her wings to give Shizuka a bit of a push. "Commander Hibiki, engaging. I'll see the rest of you at the top." Shizuka said over the Machina communications. Meanwhile Hibiki looked up at the top of Hohenheim tower, which presumably is where the grand Alchemist herself was. This was a bit of a stretch, but anything could happen now. So Hibiki shouted out loudly towards the top of the tower to try to get Hohenheim's attention. "Hello! My name is Hibiki Meido, maid of High Queen Eos. If it is true that you have been banished many eons ago, would you perhaps like company courtesy of the Machina of Man? I could provide color commentary for all our viewers watching us today!"

Hibiki was very much aware of how utterly insane this sound. Asking this mad alchemist if she could keep her company, which could also imply that Hibiki had just volunteered herself to be strapped onto an operating table. Or make herself a hostage of not only the Alchemist, but potentially the other factions too. And being a commander of the Machina faction, Hibiki would be a high valued target even if her power wasn't nearly as great as other members. But this was the Nexus, and it was never bound to the rules of reason and logic. Everything here was a gamble, and Hibiki was willing to roll the dice.

@KoL@Flamelord@Banana

[Gardevoiran]

Bonesword

~Alchemist's Castle~

---

After a quick wave to Syphax, the swordsman nodded towards Tatiana, and climbed off Stumpy to untie the knapsack attached to him. The little stump would unfortunately have to stay behind for this, as it would be a bit risky to have him go across the bridge with Tatiana and Bonesword. The swordsman dismissed the stump as it fell into the ground with a thud, and the swordsman drew one of his swords as he began to speak to Tatiana while the two were in front of the bridge. "Now, don't take this the wrong way, but I'm gonna go first. I weigh less than you with all that armor, and it'd be less risky that way." The skeleton didn't wait for approval, as he started to cross the bridge very carefully. He drew another sword and used both of the ones he had out as a way to balance as he crossed the bridge at a fast, but cautious pace. The skeleton even had his breathing as steady as a snipers gun whole he crossed the bridge, and the only interruption he came across was a communication call from Machina Commander Hibiki, to which he responded to.

"Bonesword reporting in. I'm crossing the bridge as I speak. This damnable thing is bound to bust at any damn second. As for the possible opposition here, I have two swords primed and ready for both Demons and Angels alike. The way I see it, if we can get the Angels and Demons fighting each other somewhere in the castle, we can push far ahead. The only issue is when we get to the special elevators, as that will split us up greatly and our combined strength will be spread out. I'll think more when I get across this bridge. Bonesword out." He stopped transmitting communications after that, and went back to focusing on crossing this bridge. In the case this bridge broke down while Bonesword was crossing it, the skeleton could latch onto the bridge and climb it as a ladder to get to the gate. If not... well... he'd have to be a good shot with his belongings.

@KoL@Flamelord@Ryonara@Mega Birb

[Flood]

Henry Pearl Avaritia The 2nd

@Lmpkio@The 42nd Gecko@Awesomoman64@Lucius Cypher@KoL@Flamelord

---

"Ya know what Sliske, I changed my mind I'm going first. Later! Come on Frosty we got a Gauntlet to win." Henry had not realized the Gauntlet had already started until now, so he took off running as soon as he got done taking out a grenade from his Gates. Henry ran past Miyu and Juno, making sure to flip both of them off as he moved onto the narrow path, slowing down slightly as he did not want to fall into a permanent death. He rushed past Tartys as quickly and as carefully as he could and pulled the pin on the grenade, dropping it by her feet as ran by. Instead of a regular explosion it would explode in a blast of light, blinding anyone who looked in that direction depending on how close they were.

He saw Ni-Mu up ahead and drew his sword. "Excuse me, gotta move past, man with sharp object running, sorry about that!" After seeing what she just did he was kinda hoping she would be dumb enough to move just because he said sorry. If she didn't then he had no problems with just pushing her off the path, unnecessary as it was.

[Lmpkio]

Ghelgath Fenrir Calder-Berg

@floodtalon

Ghelgath chuckled at Henry's response. While he hasn't interacted with him in awhile, the two used to have been pretty good friends, often hanging around and sometimes fighting Angels or Machima for fun's sake. Oh, and pranks too, especially with the Lich King. Those were some really good times. But then the War erupted once again and with him having been busy with... personal ideals, their relationship was severed for a minute. But maybe now the duo can rise again!

"Just been a lil' busy." he responds with a wink, "But It's good to be back in action. Let's put em' on ice!"

He ignored the "nonsense rambling" that Zeruel proposed in front of him. He knew little about the Arm of God, only knowing how much of an ass he can be with his haughtiness. He's just like the rest of the highest ranking Angels... Laguna were they called right? He hated them. They were even colder in tone then even his own ice... and that's already both physically and mentally cold.

Yet as soon as Hohenheim opened the gates, Henry signaled for Ghelgath to follow him for the gauntlet prize. The latter didn't think twice as he runs after him.

"Ya don't have to tell me twice!" responds the lich King as he follows quickly behind his pal.

---

Zeruel

@TheWindel@The 42nd Gecko@floodtalon

"OR... the glorified pigeon with a ten foot pole up its ass. That's fine too."

"GRRR FANCY WORDS GRRR JUSTICE GRRR I'M BETTER THAN YOU GRRR JUDGEMENT!"

Zeruel ignored the words that were being thrown at him, let alone taking very little notice of them, as if he were blocking them out. He didn't need to be either. In his mind, he was one of the strongest beings in the world, only second to Imperator Deva. They were insecure, unconfident, weak in comparison to his magnificent power. He could crush them if he wanted too, in fact, he doesn't even know why he's playing this game. If anything, this is just a brush up exercise to get him warmed up for the battles he'll face out there.

The card being shown was of no concern to the Laguna Angel. He just wanted to get this over with. And so when the door opened, he seemingly floats towards the first location, knocking down anyone to the ground (not abyss) who happens to get in his way as he approaches the narrow corridor alone.

[KoL]

Eclipse Princess
^{Current Location: Hohenheim's Castle, Outside}

@Lmpkio @Grombus @Banana @floodtalon @The 42nd Gecko @Mega Birb @Awesomoman64 @Ryonara @Flamelord @Lucius Cypher @Lonewolf685 @TheWindel

"Stop being an edgy revolted child." Juno whacked the back of Miyu's head with a slap ( not a really strong one, before "someone" tries to subvert it in a killing blow, just enough to hurt). "If you don't like fighting, all you need to do is not join the fights. By the way..." The purple-haired warrior confiscated any kind of alcohol that Miyu had with her, before throwing them down the abyss.

"Children shouldn't drink, it's bad for you. Now, go cross the bridge or wait here until Hoho teleports you back home." Juno pointed to the gate before beginning to walk in their direction, at a leisure pase, since there was still enough time to spare. "Are you coming as well, or not?" She turned around to call Omega and whatever other Angel forces who were left behind.

"Call me that again and I'll turn you into a pair of used socks and sell it at a garage sale on Hell." Was the none too friendly first part of Hohenheim's rely to Miyu's question. "That said, the answer is: It depends on the card. The Tower and the Star are certainly single target only, either to who calls it, or a random member of the chosen target team. In the end, it all depends on whether you are feeling lucky or not."

Ni-Mu
^{Current Location: Hohenheim's Castle, The Bridge}

"Following retroactively provided commands is beyond my current capabilities, Commander." Ni-Mu kept on moving forward as he replied to to Hibiki's command. In fact, time travel was beyond her skills, orders given after Mi-Mu already took an action were highly unimportant to the android. She couldn't follow them if they conflicted with her already performed actions. "Logic dictates that improper orders should be ignored." The machine was cold and monotone in her speech.

The nearly simultaneous arrival of both Henry and Shizuka, as well as the yet lagging, but sure approach of Zeruel and Bonesword were all taken in consideration as Ni-Mu darted and weaved around the bridge in an erratic pattern at fast speeds. Each of her steps left behind an invisible trap that once approached by a non-ally would release a burst of armor piercing shrapnel strong enough to tear through the heaviest of the Machina's APCs. "I'm transmitting the coordinates of the traps I'm setting, on the path, try to drag the enemy to them. Any orders, Commander?" Ni-Mu transmitted the data over the com link to the other Machina units, continuing to feed them back as she set more traps.

"I don't see why not. However, if you are really a maid, I'll request that you service me while on your stay. As long as you agree with that, you are welcome to do as you wish." Was Hohenheim's reply to Hibiki's question. "Just say what you want an I'll teleport you here."

[Mega Birb]

Sliske Arkilius

Sliske couldn't help but roll his eyes in Henry's direction as he took off, rushing past the opposition and dropping a grenade behind him. The greedy idiot had no patience after all, and he appeared determined to cause as much damage as possible already. And then the ice demon beside him followed close behind, leaving Sliske alone with the other factions and Balrog. He looked over to Juno, absentmindedly chewing on his lower lip.

An idea hit him when an unfamiliar Machina combatant began to flit around the bridge, every step erratic yet deliberate in some way... something was certainly off about this. "Angels of Heaven, I would like to extend an olive branch for this obstacle. The Machina is planning something devious, and I would recommend you stay put for a moment." The second the android was off the bridge, the incubus signalled for his imps to run across. They were light enough to go across with no issue, their weight wouldn't effect the bridge at all. In addition to possibly tripping up Bonesword and Zeruel, they would trigger the mines left behind by Ni-Mu that they happened to step on in their clumsy stride... which would probably be the majority of them. If any made it through alive, they would run straight inside and into the waiting elevator.

@Lmpkio@floodtalon@Banana@KoL

---

Syphax Gallus Aquilus

Syphax nodded his thanks to Miyu and grabbed a bag of sour cream and onion potato chips off of the mech's upper arm, setting himself down and opening it a short moment later. With little else to do because of the extremely suspicious movements of one of the Machina, and Bonesword taking his sweet time getting across the bridge, he started munching on his first meal that day. "Bonesword! Don't look at me but focus on the ground in front of you, you'll move faster!" He briefly considered trying to fly directly over the bridge, then shook his head, realizing that his wingspan was wider than the crossing point. Stuck until the skeleton got across... he must be getting close to the cut off time the Alchemist had mentioned.

@The 42nd Gecko

[Lonewolf685]

Suparna Wolgen

---

As usual, Suparna was fashionably late to the party but still came with ample time to hear the details and witness what could only be described by the Queen of Carrion as a freak show parade with a motley assortment treating the bridge like a tightrope instead of a functional path from one end to the other. Seeing as this challenge was open to beings as large of Bal-Dakka or that colossal angel she didn't recall seeing recently, the skeletons insistence in theatrics was worthy of a sigh of exasperation.

"This challenge is truly off with a bang." She remarked off the cuff and raised a sleeve before her face to dim the violent burst of light and sound Henry thought to release on the bridge. The structure itself was no worse for the wear and Suparna was far enough away to be unaffected, but how it affected those currently crossing was yet to be seen.

"Hmm, if what the Alchemist said is true, I'd rather not risk being disqualified on a technicality." That technicality being Chirada, who may for all intents and purposes be only half of one entity divided between two vessels, but Suparna wasn't going to gamble on the elevator making that distinction. "Fran dear, please look away for a few moments."

Suparna stepped back into the waiting embrace of Chirada...and was skewered upon its ribs. A grotesque squelching noise erupted from the Lolita whose body convulsed from an outpouring of maggots along each puncture, a sight befitting the nightmares of mortals until Chirada closed itself around her and concealed it from view. It's body rumbled and shifted, masses writhing every which way alongside the grating sound of bone tearing flesh to release the carrion contained within. Chirada noticeably bulked up from the increase in mass and the seam it often opened to expose its ribs had sealed itself as though never existing in the first place. Two more wings erupted from the angelic corpse's back to loom larger then the four already present, and soon after arms emerged like the sleeves of a coat and terminated in the same black plumage that circled Chirada's mask while the hands themselves were concealed beneath velveteen gloves of the starkest white.

"Ooooooh my, I almost forgot how good it felt to be whole!" Came a the jubilant cry of the united Whole, its voice seemed to echo from behind the mask now serving as its face. Chirada, as that really was the easiest way to identify them in this form, now loomed two heads over Fran and was caught in a fit of laughter as she experimented with her newly formed arms and the wings from the starting area. Their was a temptation to indulge in the urges of her wings and fly across the bridge to reach the castle, but even Chirada's exultation of her empowered body, she wasn't so foolish as to forget the reason she assumed it.

The Rules mattered, as the others would soon discover.

---

It was to the surprise of any viewer to this contest that it was not any competitor. but a gaggle of meager imps that began to set the wheels of calamity into motion.

A series of detonations ran along the bridge from their single minded race along the bridge, a hazard that would claim many of their rank and possibly fling those still crossing into the abyss below. Yet this was not the end of the issues they would raise.

Two Sliske's imps would do as commanded and continue into the castle, finding the elevators waiting for them without any trap to hinder their progress. The remaining duo continued inside and piled into one of the open elevators and slapping the only button present, which closed the doors with a resounding ding. Rather then ascend, the elevator's occupancy limit sent them hurtling downwards towards the inescapable holding area all of Hohenheim's captives would find themselves residing in before they were stuffed into cryogenic storage.

While the imps got acquainted with their cell, the use of the elevator had triggered the Second Phase of the competition before anyone was actually present. Hohenheim had told them that whoever remained on the first floor when the elevators moved would be left with company, and each ascension or descent would result in greater and greater numbers of greeters to come down and welcome the competitors. For this first call came down a trio of serpentine woman brandishing swords that burned the same color as their scales.

Were Ananta not slumbering upon a delightful heated rock that came through the mail, this would have been an easy matter for Heaven to circumvent, but as it was, the three lamia surged out of the lamia and took to the bridge with the intent of knocking them from the dangerous precipice. Moved with each undulation of their powerful tails, they charged forth with a flurry of steel, flame, and muscle to topple the intruding Factions into the void below.

---

@Lmpkio @Grombus @Banana @floodtalon @The 42nd Gecko @Mega Birb @Awesomoman64 @Ryonara @Flamelord @Lucius Cypher @KoL @TheWindel

[Lucius Cypher]

DORAFRAKI GOLDION

Sufficient to say, things where somewhat confusing for Dora, not helped that she was still rather sloshed. Hearing Miyu ramble on about her own drunken state got a good laugh out of Dora. The dwarfish woman approached Miyu from behind and gave her rear a solid smack. Possibly, at this point Dora was seeing double. "Quit yer bitchin! Don't got ta make this more complicated than it ain't. Git to the other side of the bridge, easy! Acht, looked like them demon bastards already fucked things up for us... Ah well, they gotta go through machina first." Of course while the angels were hanging back, Dora didn't intend to sit idly by. Raising her hammer into the air Dora called upon a storm onto the bridge. Just because she wasn't running the bridge doesn't mean they can't attack!

The storm would gradually build in power, but first came the rain. It started off as a drizzle, but soon became a torrent of water that smashed into the body and faces of those on the bridge. The rain made the bridge wet and slippery, and those without some sort of spiked shoes may have a hard time maintaining their footing. And even those who did may still trip up. The rain also had a secondary purpose of limiting the mobility of flight for those who have it, as the rain and wind would push around and affect their flying ability. As the storm persist, worse weather effects will take place. Hopefully by then the bridge would be cleared and the Angel's of heaven could make it across.

Juno then commanded the heaven's forces forward, which was no problem for Dora. Should could part the storms as they get closer, and the worse they'll have to deal with is whatever was left on the floor. "Ready when yer are, Princess!"

@The 42nd Gecko@Mega Birb@KoL@Flamelord@Awesomoman64@Lmpkio

---

Francisca Labrys Seax Luxuria

Fran had arrived to the place of battle alongside Balrog, since she was still swinging around his body when he showed up. Looked like everyone was here! The machina moved first with their new player, some neon blue girl followed by one of the mech maids. Then Henry ran out followed by Sliske's imp army, who triggered every trap and busted down the door. And proceeded to bust down the elevator... "Devil's dammit Sliske." As Fran worked her way down Balrog next to her sweet lolita, Suparna told Fran to cover her eyes. So putting her face into her hands Fran waited until Suparna was done, where she had then fused with Chirada. And yet despite being physically bigger now, she was still Fran's sweet lolita. "Suparna~"

Flinging herself onto her lover Fran gave the mass of maggots a kiss and a hump. Alas, playtime was over. Now it was time for work. Looking up to Balrog, Fran shouted so he could hear her. "Balrog! There are too many people on that bridge! Either blast them all or throw us at the entrance!" Fran was aware that Hohenheim (Henceforth known as Hoho) wanted them to cross the bridge without cheating, like teleportation and flying. Fran couldn't fly, but surely she could be thrown. So after giving Suparna some tender loving, Fran hopped back onto Balrog and into one of his hands. Perhaps she could try to hitch a ride on one of his missiles.

"Aim through the storm! Get me all wet!"

@Lonewolf685@Awesomoman64

[TheWendil]

~ Imperator Deva ~
^{Current Location: Celestia, Heaven’s Capital}

Stark Zealot would notify the High Queen, watching the untested unit but not with a physical presence. Whether this meant something further would be hard to discover. However, it was to the side of Heaven that found itself set with the most challenges, not the Machina. For Deva considered long and hard about her chosen card, watching the trials from Celestia.

She was to give both an order and a command to her forces thanks to Ni-Mu’s careless drawing. But how best to act upon these complications? From her observation now, the bridge had released several creatures meant to inhibit and halt the progress of all their forces. Lamia by the looks of it; for a moment, the Imperator considered ordering Ananta to swiftly take charge of the battlefield.

But while there was no doubt her lamia could defeat these small beings, there was no telling about the future challenges up ahead. With this in mind, the Imperator made her decision and when she next spoke, her voice boomed out all over the enemy’s castle. “My order is thus: do not fail your Imperator! Git good. My command is as follows: I call forth the native forces of this land in assistance to Heaven’s might! I promise bountiful rewards for their efforts so come forward, Amazons of the Nexus!”

One by one, pillars of light began to appear all over Heaven’s forces. In there place was a powerful woman adorned with fighting prowess and the capacity to fight. Ordinarily they’d ignore Deva’s order entirely but Hohenheim's domain held powers greater than most. They would be bound by the rules of the Arcana cards. “Take these allies as sisters in arms my Angels! Let them assist and guide you to victory!”

---

@Lmpkio, @KoL, @Lonewolf685, @Lucius Cypher, @The 42nd Gecko, @Mega Birb, @Awesomoman64, @Flamelord

[Gardevoiran]

Bonesword

~Alchemist's Castle~

---

Just his luck, every other side started firing off at those on the bridge as the swordsman was making his way, although he was now at the halfway point of the bridge and could decently sprint to the end of that bridge. Once he heard the detonations, however, was the time that Bonesword began to sprint through the rest of the bridge. It was going to give way with all the traffic on it, but that didn't stop the swordsman from doing some split-second thinking as he jumped when he was directly over a detonation. Sadly for those who rigged it, Bonesword was propelled into the air towards the end of the bridge and beginning of the gate. The armor the skeleton was wearing was able to block most of the damage, but it wouldn't continue to hold if it took a lot more... honestly the skeleton was surprised he was able to actually survive that blast and was in the air flying. Anyway, while he was flying towards the end of the bridge, he couldn't help but turn around mid-flight and flip a single finger on his hand up towards the person who triggered the damnable explosion as the skeleton tumbled within the gate just in time to avoid Dorafraki's newly-summoned storm.

Bonesword spoke through the Machina Comms next once he made it across. "Hate to tell you this, but those traps you set are probably good for nothing now. Demons and Angels are teaming for right now, and they just pretty much destroyed that bridge... they got me across though, so that's helpful." Bonesword did a quick check of his stuff before he remembered Syphax existed, and as such he yelled over to him. "Syphax! Good luck man! If it's you and me at the top, we're going to settle it like men!" The swordsman also noticed the discarding of Miyu's alcohol, and out of sympathy put down his bottle of whiskey by the gate and pressed on towards the elevators, where he decided he would wait for any other Machina forces before pressing forward.

@KoL@Flamelord@Ryonara@Mega Birb@The 42nd Gecko