O-Oh... Hill blinked a little before clearing his throat, re-composing himself in front of the new face After some time to reorganize himself, Hill bowed in front of the girl, politely I'm sorry, miss... Losaria, right? I got kinda... confused, indeed. Thank you for your help... ...although, maybe I should apologize to the rusian cat later...

The girl smiles and pats Hillock gently on the head. Her hand feels a little cold and calming to the touch L: Worry not child, your friend will be alright. You will have plenty of time to see them later. The girl looks around the dream, taking in the sight of the empty alleyway, the hints of a celebration nearby L: It’s a beautiful dream, is it not? It’s rare I have a chance to talk to anyone, let alone a kindred spirit like yourself.

Hill smiled a little, looking around again to the now empty place, nodding I wouldn't call myself kindred... I have many flaws. After all, I'm still human inside. I've lived and saw a lot of things... I just wanted some peace for those that helped me all this time... Sighing relieved, Hill moved his attention to Losaria, bowing again The name is Hillock, it's a pleasure to talk to you too, miss Losaria.

Losaria laughs brightly, her eyes closed. Her kind, caring voice seems to be carried by the air itself L: That’s what I meant dear Hillock. You wanted, not glory for yourself, or some sort of self-satisfaction. To appease a sense of guilt. Rather, you wished for others to be happy, and denied yourself the pleasure and praise. Losaria opens her eyes again and takes a deep breath before looking at the sky L: I wonder, if more people were like us, perhaps the world wouldn’t have gone thus far. We might have never met.

Hill was, in general, less tense than the previous moments. He even felt calmer... anybody could tell by looking at his face, following Losaria and looking up too Maybe... if humanity looked for the those around them, if the world worked together to improve... so many things would have been avoided... who knows, though? Maybe I would never appeared here... maybe we would have met somewhere else... After getting his hands on his pockets, Hill looked down, a nostalgic look on his face Nobody is perfect, not even me though... that, is a fact. But either way, miss... Losaria-san. I'd love to talk more with you, in this relaxed mood... But I'm afraid I still have a few questions... and I know what just happened doesn't mean this is over...

Losaria looks back down to Hillock, her smile is gone, replaced with a straight-faced and relatively serious expression. She looks at a Hillock with concern L: Of course dear Hillock, I would be glad to answer any questions you might have. But, please, be quick. I don’t know how long I have.

Hillock nods, the mood returning to a normal tension I'm sorry for breaking the mood miss. Call it... work gags. But please understand, my experience tells me something bigger is happening, and I'll be forced on it... I heard this place is a collective dream, of sorts. And the priestess before started babbling about "Nexus", and the end of reality... I'd like to know who exactly are you, if I may ask, and what is happening.

Losaria sighs and looks behind her. Of course, nothing of note is there, so she begins trailing off on her own story. L: In order to know what’s happening, it may be good to know where it starts. But it’s quite a long story. Losaria closes her eyes in remembrance. In this moment, she looks quite a lot older than befor L: It started hundreds of years ago, I cannot remember how long now. I was a little girl, perhaps ten or twelve years old then. A famine had struck the area where I lived, caused by a sudden failure of crops. Some blamed it on sorcery, others called it The will of god. They became angry with each other, and began to lash out in their misery. Losaria takes a deep breath, as though calming her nerves before she continues L: those in power saw this as an opportunity. They fanned the flames of dissatisfaction, starting a war that lasted for four years. During this time, I could do little to speak out against the chaos, no one would listen to a child like me. Would you care to know who finally did?

Hill kept looking at Losaria, nodding so she could know he was hearing, as he grabbed a chair to sit Please, continue...

A chair conveniently appears for Hillock to sit in, guess any story that starts with “hundreds of years ago” is likely to be long. Regardless, Losaria continues, almost as if unaware of Hillock’s input L: after a few years, I heard a voice. It was quiet, and soft. I assumed it to be my own. The voice would tell me. “It doesn’t have to be this way.” “The world shouldn’t be like this, and we can fix it.” I found it comforting, really. But I never acted on it. Not until one day when I came home. To find my father gone. He was rather old, in his fourties, but not old enough to avoid being conscripted. So, I began to question the voice. To ask it how I could help him, help everyone. And Nexus answered. Losaria takes another deep breath and wipes a tear away from her eye before continuing L: That day, Nexus came to me, they descended to this earth, clad in my form, and stopped everything. They stopped the war, they stopped the arguing, they stopped the pain. Much like they are trying to now, Nexus came to answer my wish. Losaria smiles and looks back at the sky.... Or is it past the sky? She seems to be looking at something further L: and much like now, some people dissented. Six dreamers came to disagree, and they ended it. However, Nexus did not fade. I still existed, in some place between the dream and reality. Until one day The priestess from earlier, Eris, called to us. She was such a scared and lonely child, so..... As dreadful as it may sound, I answered.

Hill couldn't avoid taking his hand to his chin, with a thinking expression over his face, curiously trying to follow Losaria's eyes to nowhere So... we could say, "this place" is Nexu's creation, am I right? A dreamplace, somewhere you can find peace, a way to force humanity into slumber and stop wars... ... surprisingly, Hill didn't seem to tense or anything. In fact, he was still calmed, now deep on his own thoughts ... I kinda understand the logic... human pain is always created by other humans... if humans can't interact with others, they can' create pain...

... so you answered Eris's call, and created a new "Dream place", correct?

Losaria blinks a few times and turns her eyes back to Hillock. She stares at him for a moment, and chuckles L: I suppose that’s right. Or at least, true enough. The idea was for everyone to be able to live their own life, happily, with nothing to cause them pain or stress. Their needs would be met, as would their wants. But, if you tell them it is false, people tend to fight back. Seeking some grand reality. So..... It didn’t. Losaria takes a deep breath and sighs, looking off to the side L: All I did was.... Let Nexus through once more. Nexus itself, is the creator, and the dream.

OOC: I apologize but I'll be busy for the next few hours so I don't know if I'll be able to join unless this goes on for a while.

... ... ... *sigh*... Look... I understand your ideals. Or rather, Nexus,s ideals. A place of harmony, of peace... it's a complex project, a world where I'd want to live... A place where I could have my friends and loved ones safe, without worrying about the next god, monster, deity... without feeling pained each time I see myself surrounded by demi-gods, wildcards, interdimensional travelers... without feeling useless at all... ... Nexus seems like a good entity, huh? I share your feeling... I saw enough conflicts and wars to really wish people could just... stop killing themselves... ... but there is a problem with that plan, I'm afraid...

OOC: that’s fine Kazuya, there are actually going to be two stages, one begins very soon, the other begins in 5 hours. Hopefully you can join the second Losaria chuckles, but it seems a little more... Hollow this time L: oh, please. Do tell me. But..... I have a feeling I already know. I know th....At this moment, Losaria begins to flicker, and fade. She smiles back at Hillock L: it seems we’re out of time. No matter, go forth. Do what you must, who knows, maybe we’ll see each other again? For real, of course. Losaria continues fading away, in her place, is a vague... Distortion, much like the one Yuri left through. It seems like it might be time to go

... Hill got up from the chair, which disappeared too, and quickly bowed to Losaria, almost in a hurry I'm honestly glad we could talk, miss Losaria. You don't really see people who share the same opinion as you on this matter... it's been ages since I could talk like this with an unknow face... He stops bowing, smiling lightly I'm sorry you think I'm against you or Nexus. Nothing further from reality... if we meet again, I'd like to continue our talk... Take care... and good luck with your dream. Maybe someday we can find a way to make it reality... even if that goes against human nature...

Hill thinks he can hear Losaria’s faint laughter, although the girl herself is long gone. The distortion intensifies and grows, soon enough, the dream itself fades away, and Hillock finds himself on a hillside, near a forest. Standing on the Hill is the priestess from his dreams, looking out towards a strangely close star formation. There are others around, though she pays them no heed. Instead, she continues watching the nearby stars E: It’s about time, isn’t it? If anyone has questions, please ask them now. We’re going to bring an end to this disaster, somehow. OOC: and this is where any of the people mentioned in the first post can jump in if they want. Finally about to start the finale.

... ... ... What is the plan, exactly? I thought you were with Nexus... Guess it's time to point out how Hill changed to his Phantom uniform, huh?

Well, this is probably a pretty obvious question but... Yuri stares up at the constellation, one hand on their chin as they think. How do we defeat this god, Eris-san? Do we just attack it, or must we do something else?

Oh, russian cat is here. Yuri, right? Did I introduced myself before?

*Sam finishes maintenance on his robotic arm* Wasn't summoning this god what you wanted? Why do ya want it dead now?

Yes, that's right. And I never caught your name back there. They don't look away from the stars above.

I'm sorry. The name is Hillock, it's a pleasure. Thank you for trying before... I got kinda lost, though... is not like Nexus's ideals are that bad... After waving a hand to Sam, Hill followed Yuri's sight to the stars... and didn't found anything interesting

Eris chuckles for a moment, she turns back around to the group, at a loss E: Honestly, I don’t have much of a plan. The most I have is something our friend Aincrad brought up. If we manage to defeat Nexus out here, she’ll simply retreat to the dream. Fortunately there are.... Others, some who will find it inside the dream, and hopefully drive Nexus off for some time.... Eris begins toying with a few of her amulets, nervously glancing to the side as she does so E: You’re not.... Wrong exactly. Sam. I wanted to bring her, but not as an end in and of itself. I wanted to be able to give everyone peace, the peace of the dream. But.... As your presence gives testament to. Nexus cannot do that. In fact, some suffer more in her embrace. I.... I’ll simply have to find another way. And hope my efforts are enough.

I see... so we are on the real world now... Well, I guess that's something. Plans never work, after all, so it's good enough

So we chase the Nexus into the dream, and the others will do the rest? It could work... and it's the best chance we got. Yuri shrugs, then scratches behind one of their furry ears. They have their doubts, but what else could they do?

So, we're chasing the god into it's own Lotus Eater Machine? Better than any plan I can think of right now.

Eris laughs nervously as she gives the group one last look. E: wonderful, absolutely wonderful. Now, let us hope it even works. If there are no further questions.... It’s time to do something reckless. Eris turns back to the stars and walks towards it. High in the air, a young girl can be seen floating in the middle of the formation, though it is hard to tell many of their features, Yuri and Sam would most likely recognize it as Nexus. Nexus looks down upon the group, cold and indifferent, before descending to meet them. Looking more closely, Hillock would recognize the form as Losaria’sj N: So, the blind dreamers have come, led by a lost lamb no less. Have you come to repent, and accept peace once more? It is not too late for you.

*Sigh*... I thought so... She said Nexus was acting through her... Hill gazes at Losaria, tense, before whispering at Eris from near Eris, right? Tell me... if we are in the real world... that means that's her real body, no? Losaria's body...

How many times to I have to tell you? I'm not here to accept your dream, like it or not. The nekomata glares at the floating girl. So don't waste time trying to talk me out of my own choice.

Your peace ain't worth anything to me. I'm here for a secondary reason.

(Oh crap and here I thought a new topic would be made, where do you want me to jump in?)

OOC: right now Aincrad, it’s fine, I hope you didn’t miss anything too important. The fight’s just starting. Eris looks back up to Nexus, no longer a hint of fear in her eyes. She grips her staff tightly and proclaims E: Your peace is worth nothing, it is falsified and insufficient. My apologies, but this is- Eris turns over to Hillock, eyebrow raised E: Losaria? Who is.... The ground rumbles with Nexus’s laughter she looks down upon the group with a faint blue glow in her eyes N: Very well. I am Nexus, that is my name. I bring unto the world harmony. A red spear materializes in Nexus’s grasp, it begins dripping a black, smoky substance, as though it were poisoned. The substance fizzes upon striking the ground N: By mankind’s desires am I brought forth, and mankind’s desires shall I fulfill. Those who seek annhialation, come forth, and receiveth thine wish. Nexus swings her spear in the air, causing more if the smoky substance to land upon the ground. It begins to come together and coalesce, taking the shape of two black humanoids, where their eyes should be are two glowing blue orbs, and they possess a mark similar to those of the stars behind upon their chest. Sam would recognize them as shades he fought in the woods. A faint whispering begins to arise from the very ground [Battle, Start]

Aincrad walks out of the woods stretching. "Damn it over slept agai-" he looks up and at the Nexus and shades. "What the... straight to fighting then." He shakes his head summons a spear made out of holy light. "Kouagon!" He walks forward besides Eris and tosses it at the shades. "Eris how goes the planning, and sorry for leaving you alone to do it." ++Action++ Heavy Bless Damage

So basically, you're saying we have a death wish? I'll admit this is crazy, but don't count us out just yet. Blue Blaze! With a flick of their tails, two blue fireballs appear, one on each side of Yuri. The blue flames shoot at Nexus like a comet, pulsing with a fear-inducing aura.

Shit... I'll have to work on that later: Let's begin! Without waiting any moment, Hill grabbed his weapons forth: the light saber and the silenced gun. Gripping them confidently, he gave a step forward before looking at the humanoids, breathing deeply I lost some practice... but don't fail me now, Boss... ++Action++ Big Boss: Tetrakarn. Physical shield for one hit, casted on @Wolf_

Those things again... *Sam charges his cane with electric power and fires a beam of light at one of the shades* This worked last time, so hopefully it works now. -Action- Heavy Electric Damage- one foe

Eris smiles at Aincrad and laughs. E: I’d say this is less of a plan more of a prayer, now please, focus on the effort at hand, these amulets take concentration. Eris grabs one of her pendants and focuses on it, one depicting a towering suit of armor E: The words of the people become a prayer for safety. Aincrad’s spear of light strikes a shade full force as it finishes forming. The shade gets a large hole in its center, and dissolved into a musty substance once more. Similarly, Sam’s bolt of electricity strikes the other one, it seems to struggle for a moment, attempting to maintain its form, but soon begins dissolving as well Wolf has prepared his defenses..... We’ll see how that works out. Yuri fires their attack at Nexus herself, The blue fires shoot off towards their foe. Nexus swipes one fireball to the side, hkwever, the other manages to reach her.... Or so it seems. Nexus has little mark on them beyond a faint, ashy gray on her dress N: The might of so few is nothing compared to the will of all. Now suffer for thine transgressions. A faint white light glows at the tip of Nexus’s still-dripping spear. She a white, almighty laser comes from the tip as she swings it down, aiming for Hillock and Aincrad. The beam causes an explosion where it strikes the ground, one that can be heard echoing through the forest behind the group. Meanwhile, Another pile of the black substance forms in front of Nexus. The two previous smoking piles merge into this one, as it’s shape twists and forms..... The shape of a young schoolgirl, one Yuri might recognize from the forest. In the blink of an eye, there’s a pistol in her hand

Oh fuc- Hill hasn't been active in some time... that pays off. The blast hits him whole, throwing him a few meters away before landing on his two feet (Perks of being part cat) That blast hurted, though! I don't think Physical shields would stop a laser attack... G-Gah... geez, I'm rusty... never been a good fighter. Still... I should concentrate on the mushy thingy... Sirius Black! Wild thunder! ++Action++ Persona switch: Sirius Black: Wild thunder (All foes, massive electric damage)

Aincrad quickly looks at Eris then at the laser coming towards him, and in his mind his decision was already made. "Keep it up Eris, you got this!" With that he takes the full brunt of the laser and gets thrown back, burns starting to form on his skin. "Gah!" Panting he gets up and summons another holy spear. "Hey cat person!" He yells towards Hil. "Put a shield around the priestess!" With that he aims at the Nexus and tosses the spear towards her. "And you can just fade away now you 'god'!" ++Kouagon++ Heavy Bless at Nexus

Yuri would have liked to take control of the now-dead shadow creatures, the girl's formation had foiled that. They shift into the form of a two-tailed silver house cat and dash forward, zig-zagging to throw off their foe's aim. Soul of Leo! Once they get close enough, their form ripples and grows, expanding to the size of a lion as they try to knock the gun-using girl to the ground.

Uh? The "Cat person turns to Aincrad, then nods Got it! I'll see what I can do... OOC: In the next turn, lol

You guys alright? Eh, probably. Raijin! *At his call, a bolt of lightning comes from the sky heading straight toward Nexus -Action- Heavy Electric Damage- One foe- Nexus

Eris continues her chant, oblivious to the world around her E: The people’s prayer’s reach the heavens, and become a blessing for the righteous.... Meanwhile, Yuri dashes towards the shade as it finishes forming. In the blink of an eye, the pistol is exchanged for a shotgun, which is then fired at Yuri, several pellets strike home, and it prevents her approach perhaos that was a good thing. Hillock’s thunder arcs towards both opponents, passing just over Yuri’s head to strike the schoolgirl. They don’t move, and begin bleeding out more of the wispy black substance. The girl behind to speak G: Never save them... All my fault.... Both Sam and Hill’s bolts of thunder approach Nexus from different directions, she attempts to swipe them aside, however, the metal spear only succeeds in attracting the Lightning, and leaving Nexus too stunned to avoid Aincrad’s light. The spear strikes Nexus in the chest, leaving a faint wound from which more of the wispy black substance flows. Nexus’s voice has become distorted, now that the body has been pierced. It sounds as though a small chorus, one with men, women, and children all speaking together. However, there’s something more... Sinister behind it N: Foolish.... Useless.... Those who would stand against serenity, face the sorrow you so desperately long for. A ball of black energy forms at the tip of Nexus’s spear. She swings it straight downwards, launching the orb to the ground. Once it strikes, a wave of dark energy and terror pulses throughout the battlefield. If it strikes, the faint whispers get louder, foretelling nothing but doom, destruction, and loss, in addition to the curse damage. Another puddle of the black substance has formed, but it doesn’t seem to be forming a shape just yet.

Aincrad glares at the Nexus and watches the ball strike the ground. "Welp this'll be interesting." He runs in front of Eris and holds his hands in front of him, sending a beam of holy energy through the darkness trying to split it around him and Eris. "You do realize you are screwed right? Which reminds me, how's that statue I burned in your dreamland? Is it burned to the ground yet?"

Lucky me! Sirius Black is strong against curse! The fact that the black energy passed through him didn't waved Hillock, who was still standing, looking at Losaria... or rather... Nexus. Seeing her pierced didn't pleased Hill, who started to look nervously Shit... I can't get distracted... His attention moved to Eris, and concentrating on her, Sirius Black's protection was casted on her... ++Action++ Sirius Black: Makarakarn. Magic Shield for one hit, casted on Eris

*A bolt of lightning strikes next to Sam, from which Sam pulls a bow out of it and fires an arrow of electricity at Nexus* So, Nexus is a god illusion, I take it. With the Siren effect and it's summoning ability tht's what I assume. Fascinating. Very fascinating. -Action- Severe Gun/ Electric damage- Nexus

OOC: curse resistance is strong in this party. IC: Aincrad manages to split the wave of darkness around him and Eris, though they can still hear the whispering as it passes, there is little else to worry for. This allows Eris to complete her prayer E: The blessing of the righteous becomes a shield to protect the innocent. The amulet glows brightly, and from the light emerges a colossal suit of armor, twice as tall as a man. It seems to be made of gold, and is ornately decorated. The armor clanks forward, empty shell rattling with each step. The shade fires another round at Yuri, however, they dodge the worst of the blast, and then pounce upon the shade. It crumbles beneath Yuri’s weight. Forming a puddle of steaming ooze that stings like acid Sam’s Arrow whizzes through the air towards the injured Nexus, who shouts at Aincrad, apparently unaware of the approaching threat N: Fool! The statue is an idea, a dream. Ideas can never be destroyed. I will come back to haunt you until all ca— At this moment, Sam’s arrow strikes home where her heart would be. It buries itself into Nexus, more and more dark substance pouring out of the wound. Nexus turns to him next N: You dare challenge me? Only destruction awaits you fools. This same Dark ooze begins pouring out of the tip of Nexus’s spear. She directs the flow at San first, shooting out the black, acidic substance, it burns and sizzles upon its target, much as the earlier had. She then directs it to Aincrad, leaving some poured on the ground between the two.

!! We are taking too much damage... do you think you can hold, guys?

Aincrad chuckles and dives to the side. "Glad to see its up and running Eris, what say you to a little party with our Nexus friend up there?" He then looks up at the figure and smirks. "Seems awfully narcissistic of you doesn't it? Also I'm pretty sure I at least singed that statue so it isn't an idea, it's just a rock that was made into the form of an idiot false deity. Not really an idea of you catch my drift." With that he points a finger gun at the nexus. "Oh I'm sorry is it too much of a burn?" With that he fires the gun and a stream of fire gets shot towards her. ++Action++ Severe Fire Damage - Nexus Severe pun damage - literally everyone

*Sam hops around a bit after being struck* Fuck. Hot hot hot. Get it off. Raijinraijinraijinraijin!!!!! *Raijin strikes Sam with a bolt of lightning, disintegrating the black substance.* Ah. Much...better... *Sam then flips off Aincrad for the pun*

... ... ... ... Hillock takes too much damage and dies from that pun ... *sigh* Guess you guys can hold for now... Big Boss! take her down! The persona switches again, taking the form of the legendary mercenary before throwing a punch on Nexus, from behind ++Action++ Persona switch: Big Boss. Miracle punch: Medium physical damage, high chance of critical/Down

Eris flinches at the pun, fortunately her suit of armor is deaf and has no such issues E: I..... I can’t believe you can say that at a time like this. And I come from a religion that prays tigers into existence. The suit of armor is splashed by some of the acid, but no significant marks are made on its form as it swings a massive arm at Nexus Sam and Yuri take care of themselves, ready for whatever comes next. Aincrad launches a stream of fire at Nexus, she raises her spear, directing the acid to meet his flames. Turns out the acid is flammable, and the flames rapidly run up the stream, singing the spear and forcing Nexus to drop it. She catches sight of the approaching suit of armor, only to be sucker-punched by Hill’s Persona. The suit merely scrapes by her, knocking Nexus back. The acid on the ground begins bubbling and moving towards her N: Vessel is severely damaged. Retreat necessary. The acidic, black substance pours out of Nexus and begins covering her. That one the ground rises to join in the formation of another, far more massive Shade than the rest. It forms a slender, humanoid shape who’s head reaches the sky. Behind it spread out four, massive wings, formed of the same wispy black substance as the rest. The entity is dotted with points of light, much like the night sky. Rather than two larger orbs where it’s eyes would be, the shade possesses one massive, person-sized orb in the middle of it. E: And this..... Is where we just start improvising.

That... Is one big monster. Yuri limps towards the thing, still rather damaged from the gunshots. They flick their tails to fling two blue fireballs at their large foe. Blue Blaze! ...Probably won't do much against something that big...

"Everyone hates puns, figured I would aggravate her to attack me while the rest of you annihilate her. Besides bad humour is keeps morale up. So it serves to purposes, give us a morale boost and taunting. Which reminds me," he holds his hand in the air and casts Salvation healing everyone. "Everyone back at full strength?" He grins and gets in to a position to move. "Now we get to the fun part." ++Action++ Salvation

Improvising... yeah... uh? Want improvisation? Heh... Seeing the massive monster in front of them, he prepares to switch personas once more and attack- But his actions are suddenly stopped, a thought running on his mind, an idea Hold a moment... it could work... Looking around to his allies, Hill centers his attention to a certain point of the terrain: and starts running over there, mumbling a few words This better work... ++Action++ Hillock is moving places... let's say he is guarding too...

I think if anything, your humour would shoot our Morale in the foot. At the very least, it'll be distracting. *Sam shoots the creature in the foot with an arrow* -Action- Severe Gun/ Electric damage- Creature

Eris takes a deep breath and focuses, while her suit of armor meets the creature head-on. The two grapple, with the creature gaining an immediate advantage with its size Sam and Yuri fire at the creature, the flames dissipate almost harmlessly against its skin, leaving no visible marks. However, Sam manages to pierce one of the numberless stars, and a cry of anguish can be heard resounding from the location he struck. Aincrad takes care of the group, while Hill maneuvers, it seems he is approaching the dropped spear Finally, more creatures begin peeling off from the location where Yuri struck it. These four small, humanoid shades come down fully formed, and approach the group. Behind them, another, larger, bulkier shade forms from the creature’s leg. It lumbers towards the group, empty orbs of light gazing at Hillock as he gets closer to the spear

Aincrad grins be looks up at the beast. "Hmm so the acid is flammable huh?" He smirks and summons a spear made of fire. "Oh and buddy, my humour only helps. Mostly. Half the time. Here it does." He chuckles and aims for the glowing orb. "Let's see if we can light the whole thing up! Blazing Hell!" With that he tries tossing the fire spear right into the heart of the beast. "I could always make more puns if you would like." ++Action++ Severe fire - Nexus

Hill throws himself, rolling on the floor... before grabbing Nexus's spear, smirking There we go... hope my gut is right! Taking a battle stance with the spear, aiming a first combo of two slashes and a pierce to the enemy close to him

Yuri sighs as the healing energy passes over them. They shift into their more human form and draw their gun. So the stars are their weak point? They fire at one of the smaller creatures to get them to back off, then fire two more shots at the large god's "stars."

Target the glowing spots. How very laser tag. As for your humour, Aincrad, you remind me of Gin. You couldn't tell a good joke if your life depended on it. Neither can I, but that's why I don't tell jokes. *Sam fires a barrage of wristbow bolts towards the creature.* -Action- Medium gun damage X5

The hulking figure before Hillock swings it’s massive, branchlike arm clumsily towards him. However, Hillock’s roll manages to evade it, he lashed out with the spear, slashing through the creature twice, a bright light flashing as it cuts through, finishing the thing off with a thrust/i] [i]Aincrad, San, And Yuri focus their fire on the creature, while they’re safe under the armor’s protection. However, rather than more satisfying shouts, they are answered with more and more shades peeling off? , and falling stricken to the ground. The massive creature pushes back its opposing suit of armor, soon forcing it to the ground, and crushing it beneath the creature’s weight. It turns towards the group, single menacing orb glowing Yuri takes out one of the four rushing the group, as it dissipates into a black smoke, the the remaining shades arrive and lash out, one slashing at Aincrad, one aiming to sink its claws into Sam’s non-mettallic arm, and one more meeting Eris’s staff. More shades peel off the massive creature, they’re in the middle of forming something.... When everything stops. All creatures, of varying sizes, freeze up momentarily, as though a collective gear became stuck. The orbs all over each shade, from the countless speckling the massive one’s hide, to the 8 on each lesser, begin to glow a bright, white. Beams of light begin to form out of each creature, leaving them frozen and surprised E: N... Now’s our chance. Give it everything you’ve got.

You got that right... this thing didn't like lightning, right? Such a bummer, looks like a normal spear... I'll spend some time investigating this thing later... For now, let's give this a new use! BLACK! A big lightning hits Hillock... or rather, Nexus's spear, Hillock smirking with a menacing glare... ... and then he throws the spear to the monster's head ++Action++ Lightning spear: Normal physical damage, enhanced with massive electric damage and massive bless damage, to monster-chan

Yuri nods, then calls upon their inner beast once more... Soul of Leo! A cat-beast takes their place, yowling as it launches itself towards the massive creature. It claws aside the smaller beings in its way as it prepares to claw their foe with all they've got.

Aincrad gives Eris a smile and steps around the creature in front of him. "Don't worry, I've been saving this." He then looks up at the beast holds his hand in the air. "Time for a showstopper! Come on out Hephaestus!" Blue flames surge upward from the ground and Hephaestus grows to full size his hammer on his back. "It's about time you called, it was getting boring just watching." Heppy says, and he looks towards the beasts core. "So we are doing that again?" "You betcha, just try not to blow us up." Aincrad grins up at Hephaestus then turns to the beast. "All right Heppy, use Holy Nova!" "Happily." Heppy raises his hammer into the air and white light descends into it while fire swirls around his body. Once a ball of energy has formed he point his hammer at the beats and the fire surges from his body and rockets towards the beast, encasing the holy ball as he does so. ++Action++ Severe Fire and Holy -Beast

*Sam flinches at the claw strike, kicking the shade away* Now's our chance, hmm? Very well. It's time, Raijin *Sam leaps into the air, aiming his bow. Suddenly, a colossal lightning bolt strikes the bow. As it hits, Sam redirects it towards the creature* Begone with the lightning. -Action- Mjolnir- Colossal Electric damage- Creature

with the light tearing it apart from the inside, the creature is immobile, and far more vulnerable than before. The spear passes straight through the creature’s head, leaving a large hole which shines with a bright white light, and expedites it’s decay Yuri shoves aside lesser shades, they dissolve upon striking the ground, leaving behind only their faint, starlit marks. Yuri pounces on the creature’s chest, rending it and opening up more spots for the light to shine through Aincrad fires a ball of holy energy at the creature’s large, glowing orb in the middle, it strikes the orb, but does not go all the way through, merely opening far more space for the light as his energy flows through the fading creature Finally, Sam’s electricity surges through the creature, burning away at its essence all around, it begins dissolving much more quickly all around as the electricity surges through it The numberless, starlike orbs begin to leak out with the light, flying away into the sky. However, soon the shade seems to begin a faint attempt at reforming, it jerks once more, as its center orb glows brighter and brighter.... And.... OOC: Tune in for the end in roughly an hour, where a totally different group selves into the core of the dream to take on Nexus in its home turf. I do still plan on using this topic, no need to make more for the same plot line after all. Thank you for participating, and if you see Kazuya, Boom, Homura, or Aitome, I would appreciate you passing on the message

(So, can I join this?)

OOC: Don't worry about me showing up I've been lurking for a while, I shall be here on time.

OOC: afraid not Jiyu, would be odd to add someone in at the back half of the last thread in a months-long plot line. Participation requires having been in and cleared one of my “Serene Dream” threads. Those were the last chance.

(Oh, okay.)

OOC: I regularly lurk around the forums but I only join or post when I have the time to do so. So I'll make sure to be here on time.

(Aitome exists! I'm ready whenever)

OOC: Alright, it seems are players are here, in which case, let us get started. IC: While the other group is standing on a hillside in the real world, three other dreamers are gathered within the dream. As happens far too often, they are in a forest, within some random person's dream. The forest is filled with evergreens that stretch on for miles and miles without end, its quite a breathtaking sight. Though, the group isn't here for sightseeing. Before them is the young, blonde-haired priestess they've all met before. She turns to the group with a smile, bowing gracefully to them E: I must thank you all for coming here, to help put an end to this dream once and for all. But, well, I suppose I owe some explanation, after all this. Please, if you have any questions, ask them now. I know a lot has happened, and odds are many of you are a bit.... Confused as to how you ended up here. I... I owe you that much at the very least.

Kazuya looks around confused at his sudden surroundings. He becomes disoriented for a moment before looking to the priestess. It was the same one from before or at least one who looked similar. He knew that perhaps he should be on guard as he still wasn't sure about her exact intent but he felt he had nothing to be wary of at the moment. He turns to her with the same indifferent gaze as usual and wide blue eyes. "I'm more concerned with where this is rather than how we ended up here. There doesn't seem to be much rhyme or reason for getting around in this dream."

Aitome gathers her bearings and takes a look around, surprised at the scenery change before turning to Eris Well! I'm really just wondering whats there to do next! Are we going to save another dreamer? Although an explanation as to how we got here wouldn't be the worst...

Homura glances around the area, so then it seems she's still in this freaking dream... Geez what a thing. Regardless she walks up and introduces herself to the blue haired boy, before turning to Eris with a curious look in her eyes. "So then I guess this is it huh. I'd like to know how exactly you intend to put an end to this dream Eris, where and how and all that don't seem to matter much right now. In the end we're here for... A Witch Hunt I'd call it, so tell me what you can about our foes please." Gone is the casual demeanor from Gamma's dream, replaced with a dead serious look on the girl's face as she wonders how exactly they'll do this... Best to think of it like Walpurgisnacht more than anything else.

Eris bows apologetically to the group, she chuckles faintly, as though embarrassed E: My apologies for bringing you here so.... Suddenly. But it was much faster than finding and talking to you individually. Eris meets Kazuya's curious gauge. Her eyes are a calm, normal brown, unlike some he had found earlier. She nods to him before responding E: This is the dream of an individual by the name of "Wakayama Shuji". They are a young boy who feels most at home in the wilderness, but that's not really important. Far more important is where it is in relation to everywhere else. The dream has a.... Strange way of getting around, this is the point closest to an... Empty space of sorts. If I were to guess, this is where Nexus most commonly resides, and as such it has likely been hidden, but, a blind spot is as suspicious as any other. Eris sighs and looks over to Aitome, smiling E: We're not going to save one dreamer, with a little help from some others outside, we're putting an end to the dream, hopefully for good. Finally, Eris turns to Homura and shakes her head E: I'm afraid I don't know much of anything about Nexus herself, beyond appearance and the fact they're supposed to be invincible. However, I can imagine we'll find other obstacles on the way there. These.... Embodiments of sorrow, of sorts. Shades are inhuman monsters, and shape shifters. Sometimes they take the shape of individuals, and fight as though they were the other. Though, they're often far weaker than the one they copy.

Kazuya looks back to the young girl as he introduces himself. If he's going to be working with the others he should get acquainted with them at least. "You can all just call me Kazuya. I hope we get along." Kazuya looks directly at this Eris. It seems she's willing to help though whether this is a trick or not is unclear. For the time being, he decides to help even if it's just to escape from this dream. He feels a burning in the back of his head though. It almost feels as if something is telling him to kill Nexus. He tries to ignore the voice as his own survival is what he should be focusing on. "So, all we have to do is get there and then beat this Nexus to clear the dream. If that's our goal then we should get started. No point in wasting time."

Aitome listens and nods happily, ready to end this once and for all Well then! Saving all of them at once will be effective! I'm ready to go! Although these shifters sound... scary to say the least, but I can't let them get to me, not now anyways, at any rate we just have to find the Nexus right? Lets get to it then! Oh! The names Aitome Korichi if you didnt know! I hope this will be a success! Now! Onward! Aitome then begins to take a step forward before stopping, turning to Eris Um... where are we going exactly?

"Shifters that take the forms of others? Almost like the minions of Walpurgisnacht. Don't take anything we're dealing with here lightly everyone there's no telling what Nexus has up her sleeves... I've got no idea beyond keep your guard up though, but you can count on me to do my best. Shall we save... I don't know about the world but at least a few people?" And with that the girl's clothes burst into her Magical Girl outfit as her shield forms on her wrist, and her shotgun appears in the girl's hands. She looks over to Eris with a face that says where exactly are we heading now.

Eris nods and turns back to Kazuya E: Very well, it shouldn't take long to find... I just need a few moments, as Keeper, I should be able to find it shortly. Eris chuckles at Aitome's obvious excitement, then turns to the trees behind her. She looks around, tapping the ground with her staff occasionally E: The entrance should be around here somewhere....... After a short time... A faint blue glow emanates from a patch of grass, Eris smiles and focuses on the area, causing it to twist and distort, until ultimately, the grass is gone. In its place, is a passageway, much like a ramp that goes deep into the ground. It is fairly well-lit by many faint blue lights along the path, all along the roof, ceilings, and floors. With this done, Eris smiles back to Homura E: While we're going, try counting the lights. Each one of them is a dream, and a dreamer. I think that'll help occupy you, and give you a bit of an indicator. And with that, Eris begins walking down the path herself, slowly, but surely.

Kazuya follows behind Eris as he looks around with a passive thoughtfulness. Each one a dream...Such a thought was hard to imagine yet he peerlessly looks over all the lights trying to memorize each and every one. These many people trapped in an illusion of their own desires. Something burns brightly in him. This was a crime that shouldn't go unpunished. Kazuya began gritting his teeth as his eyes briefly flashed to red. He knew he had to calm down or he might risk losing himself again. He looks forward to Eris when he can no longer handle the sight of the light. "Why? Why do this? Do they really think this is how people should live? Just stuck in some made up fantasy. That's not even living..."

Homura nods to the woman and absently looks up at the lights... So many people trapped in this false peace, far too much like that thing Madoka might become for comfort really, she shakes her head and simply tries to focus on where exactly they're heading towards at this point. As the girl hears Kazuya speak she nods to him. "My thoughts exactly Kazuya-san, whatever this Nexus happens to want I will not allow her methods to be used. It's unforgivable to me to just trap people this way."

Aitome oohs and awes at the magic Eris does as she follows behind with a small spring in her step, upon entering the tunnel her eyes glow like a dim lightbulb, casting a few shadows as she begins to count the dreams with her fingers Hmm... so that's 1... 2... 3...

Eris shakes her head, looking back at Homura and Kazuya over her shoulder as they continue on E: But there's no more fighting, no more despair, no more hatred for them. They're happy where they are... A.... Eris chuckles, it seems she forgot who she was talking to for a moment. She looks back down the passageway in front of them. E: Well, they're not all satisfied, obviously. You, the four outside, all proof of that. I... I wanted to give everyone some measure of peace, but... It has become clear, that Nexus cannot do that. As Eris leads the way, its hard to tell how she feels about the situation. There's little more to do than move forward Aitome tries her hardest to count all the dreamers. She misses thousands of course, but its the thought that counts. More importantly, staring at the walls, she notices a shift in some of the stars. Several groups of them seem to form together, making solid blue orbs. As Aitome watches, these shadows almost seem to dance and flicker along the walls.... However, they make no movement towards the group. It almost seems as though they are afraid of what's down there.

Kazuya keeps an eye on the shadows as he follows along. He keep a hand on the Comp in his pocket. He looks back to Homura and Aitome for a moment. He wonder how others can be so brave in a situation like this. A question he ponder about himself as well. "How much farther until we arrive. I'm looking forward to speaking with Nexus directly."

Aitome eventually gives up on trying to count the amount of dreams and instead watches the strange shifting of orbs and shadows, wondering as to why it's happening, before speaking to them, trying to calm them down like a child talks to a skittish cat Aw! Don't worry! We'll save you! Or else I'm not the Wandering Fate Changer!

Almost as if in answer to Kazuya's question, the passageway soon opens up into a wide, empty area. There are no blue lights here, unlike the passageway beforehand. Nothing but an endless void. Strangely, the group can see each other perfectly fine, in spite of the abyss around them. Eris steps into the area first, seemingly walking on nothing E: This is the place, I think. I... We may be a little early. The others are probably sti..... The area shakes and rumbles as another person enters. They are tall and slender, with short, white hair that goes just above their shoulders, and an elegant dress, or what once was elegant anyways. They seem to be heavily injured, with two stab wounds, and a faint, black wispy substance leaking out from them. Kazuya would recognize them as Nexus, the figure who appeared outside, while Aitome would recognize the girl from elsewhere..... They collapse to the "ground", having yet to notice the group

Kazuya stares onward defensively now. His eyes begin flashing with red occasionally as he stares at Nexus with pure disdain. The burning in his mind increases as he barely manages to hold back Abel's influence. He slowly walks up to Nexus as he tries to keep himself under control. "Nexus...This isn't the first time we've met but this is the first time I've been like this when we have. I want answers, answers as to why you would do something like this. Is this really the type of "peace" you think is necessary. This is...disgusting."

Woah... this place is definitely strange... Aitome then begins to wander around the room, looking at the dark abyss and swallowing a lump in her throat, looking a little distraught at the darkness before noticing the white figure H-hey! Are you okay? Come on! What happened to you? Aitome then runs over and tries to help out the person in white, looking at all the wounds and frowning before hearing the Devil Survivor Huh? Nexus? Where? You don't mean her do you? Shes a nice person! Theres no way! Her names Low Soar!

Homura glares at the woman and raises her gun towards Nexus. She's not about to act polite in the middle of a hunt, not to her target at least. "So then your the lunatic behind all this hmm? Homura Akemi. Normally I'd say nice to meet you... But it really isn't honestly, your mad idea of trapping the world in a dream ends here and now Nexus. I won't stand by and let another Kriemhild Gretchen happen." She sighs and looks over to Aitome, making a point to keep her gun trained on Nexus. "That's our foe for sure Aitome... I don't know how, but I can tell it's her. Haven't the foggiest why you think she's someone else but get ready please. We can't afford to play around here if she's half as strong as Eris says."

The girl turns to Kazuya, faintly smiling. She considers him for a moment, before sighing and shaking her head. Their voice is not what one would expect from any human, it sounds like a chorus of men, women, and children, all crying out at once. Heard above it all is a singular, deep sound. G: Tell me, how much do you know of the ways of man? They will eagerly claw and attack each other for the sake of their own gain. They slight each other many ways, even unknowingly. In light of this, it is clear that people can not know peace when kept in a group. They will always fight, and argue, making each other miserable with their mere presence.... The girl looks at Aitome, head tilted in confusion. G: The girl you refer to gave up that name long ago, when she decided to allow me to right the wrongs she could not. The girl starts laughing, a low rumble resounding throughout the area. G: I shouldn't be surprised, especially with the priestess here. You came all this way, seekers of sorrow. I owe you this much at least. The black mist intensifies and pour out of the girl at a much more rapid pace, her body collapses to the ground, unconcious, while the mist forms in the air behind her. It begins to coalesce and take shape. Its form twists and alters several times, ranging from that of a young child to a crippled old man, before settling on a floating black orb. The orb's surface ripples, as though disturbed by a wind. Finally, its liquid surface begins to ripple violently as it speaks N: I am Nexus, that is my name. Have you truly come so far for the sake of bringing sorrow and misery upon your fellow man? You must be mistaken, if you seek anything else. Eris finally takes this chance to speak up, she holds one of her amulets tightly, and looks back up at the orb E: It is you who are mistaken... You would satisfy many, but at the cost of any who dissent.... That's not saving everyone, that's saving yourself.

Homura pulls back on the trigger causing shells to fly towards the orb, as the rounds fly at her foe the shield clicks and time halts for a couple seconds before twisting back to normal. Hopefully it'll be enough to make sure her shot doesn't go wide. "I've to free people from an endless fake that's all too good to exist, if you think some perfect world they didn't work towards at all is what mankind needs you're wrong! I won't allow some silly dream to replace reality because a few would rather not have to struggle... Sure people will do those things you mentioned and more sometimes, but even so I'd rather have this dark and messed thing we call life than I would some illusion conjured up by a mystic being with an inflated ego!" As she speaks her voice goes from the attempt at cold and professional... Right to boiling rage as Homura's hands grip her gun and shake, eyes alight with pure hate for the thing before her. It was bad before, but after finding out she took over someone too? Tch, the thing just got worse. OOC: Soul Gem 5% dark.

Kazuya's eyes shift to a violent red as his mind begins to give into Abel's will. The boy who was once standing there may look the same but no kindness can be felt from him anymore. A red aura surrounds him as he looks up at the black orb with disgust. "People will always fight and die and struggle with one another for power. Men and Demons really aren't so different but that's how things are decided. Through exercise of power the one whose 'right' will always reign supreme. Do you plan to show us that your way is a better alternative to conflict through conflict itself? Isn't that a bit against what you're trying to say? If you ask me you're no better than mankind either. No, you're even worse. An egotistical god who interferes with humanity for your own purposes! So for the conceited god, I'll give you the same treatment I'd give my own! I'll destroy you! Come forth! Fallen deity! Wronged by the lord unleash your inner hate! Belberith!" Abel puts his hand forward as the red energy begins streaming into his palm. A red circle forms onto the ground as it slowly shapes into a pentagram. In a red flash of light, a purple ball with the faces of many creatures and people forms upward with the legs of a spider. Abel stands atop the creature as he looks straight towards Nexus. A cold energy builds in Abel's hands as he unleashes a torrent of icy spikes towards the dark ball to see if it can even be hurt by conventional means.

... *Aitome then backs up and draws her short sword, frowning at the circumstances and entering a battle pose, keeping the sword in front of her with 1 hands on the handle Sigh... this always seems to happen to me... well, no time to mope around, I'll change your fate! Get ready! Blazing Star! *Aitome then summons a orb of white flames and in one hand and holds it in front of the sword, shifting to a position akin to throwing a javalin as she strikes the orb with a singular strike, sending a drill of holy fire at the Nexus

Homura's pellets sink into the orb's liquid exterior, causing ripples across its surface. Nexus hardly seems to notice, instead its shape ripples violently again as Nexus's voice rings out N:You're the arrogant fools. Thou seekst to annhialate the only chance at peace, all for your own selfish need. Mankind cares not whether it be a dream or real, only that they can be satisfied. That is what conflict is about, a means to the ends of self-satisfaction. Abel's spikes drill into the orb's surface. The ripples seem to slow and solidify as the cold energy is spread through Nexus, but its shape remains the same N: I was called upon, begged for, can you say the same descendant of Abel? Humanity cried out for relief every hour, every day, until one day, I was able to drag them out of their misery. Can you say the same? Kazuya's spikes are melted as Aitome's holy flame approach the orb, its surface begins to ripple vividly once more, this time, a blade seems to form out of the orb's black, liquified surface. It meets the drill in mid-air, heating up as the drill blows out all of its energy. Nexus speaks once more N: I am Nexus, that is my name. I bring unto the world harmony. By desire am I formed, and by desire am I called forth. Those who seek misery, come forth and receive the sorrow you so desperately long for. The orb's surface ripples again, it seems to spin in the air, more and more rapidly. A tendril of the dark substance lashes out at Belberith and Aitome, any that strike would remain on their subject, fizzling and burning away like an acid. More of the substance splashes on the ground, and begins to coalesce and take shape. First, it forms a large, bulky humanoid figure. Its body is almost orblike, with two large, branchlike arms coming out of it. Where the figure's eyes should be are two glowing blue orbs, with a pattern of stars on its chest. The girl seems to stir on the ground near Nexus... Eris looks at the others with concern, but decides to check on the girl first, kneeling on the ground near her.

Homura wisely decides that firing upon a god might not be the best plan, instead she darts away from Nexus and aims her gun right for whatever has been summoned, shots flying right towards the stars upon it's chest as she glares at the thing. "I don't give a damm who called and begged for you! There's more to the world than just being peaceful and I refuse to let you do whatever the hell you think needs to be done... So what if humanity cried out for relief? Living life in something that doesn't exist isn't an answer to anything! And I'm not sure what all this Abel stuff means but none of it matters to me, anyone who will stand against a beast like you can't be so bad." She watches the figure and waits, not even taking eyes off for a moment as she screams towards Nexus... How one thing can possibly be so wrong she's got no clue, but soon it shouldn't an issue right?

The black liquid strikes at the stationary Belberith causing the flesh it touches to sizzle and bubble. Beleberith remains unflinching as its body swirls and shifts to hide the destroyed flesh. Abel gives Beleberith a glance as if giving it an order but there's almost a look of respect in Abel's eyes as he orders Belberith. The heads of Belberith cry in rage as the ground begins to freeze and large chunks of Ice begin forming up and outward around the massive demon. Abel then dispels the cold energy on his hands until it's replaced with a march more wild burning power. Flames burst forth from Abel's hands as he smirks at Nexus. "The people will always forget the fallen. That's just the world works and how god decides it to be. People cry and pray to god all the time to gain his wisdom and what good has that done for humanity? He drives my brother to murder and then brands him a murderer. So, what makes you any different from that god? Do you still doubt that it is by only power alone that you decide what is best for the people? Even now you use power to control the masses." Abel fires the flames not at Nexus but around Belberith more specifically at the ice creating a massive vent of steam that surrounds the two and continues to spread out.

Aitome observes the fire melting the ice and decides that perhaps she shouldn't do that again, however she is cut off by the massive creature in front of her, taking interest in the stars Stars? Something about that rubs me the wrong way... Aitome then turns to Nexus to answer her, determination in her eyes That isn't right! You shouldn't confine people to a singular path! People have the right to choose their own destiny! Taking that away from them is a horrible thing to do! That's why I'll stop you! Agidyne! Aitome then sticks her sword into the ground, trusting what the Devil Survivor has for a plan and a pillar of fire erupting straight from the ground strikes the ice

Homura's shots strike the shade, from each wound spills some of the black, wispy substance, similar to what formed Nexus. The stars seem to move to slightly different locations whenever hit, in order to keep their formation solid. N: My duty is not to find an answer, it is not to improve, or detract from humanity. I exist only to act on their desires. If their desires do not coincide with what is best, so be it. The acid sticks to Belberith as it reshapes to hide the wound, it will continue to burn, but he's a big boy, he can take it for a while. Their combined steam quickly reaches Nexus, Eris, the girl, and Abel's allies. It continues to expand, as though there was no limit in the area, but in moments everything important is touched. N: Do not compare me with a fool driven by their own desire for power and respect. Does that not apply to you? One who refuses to accept the will of all, far more than I? Aitome helps add to the steam, it seems to thicken and grow further.... This is gonna be flashy I bet. N: They chose to rely on my grace, I forced no one to remain. You could have left, easily if you wanted. Instead you return, to wreak havoc upon the efforts of all. Yet still you're foolish enough to claim superiority. Pay for your insolence. The shade lumbers towards Homura, its bulky, branch-like arm swinging in a wide, horizontal arc. While slow, it seems to have more than enough power behind it. The orb spins again, vertically this time. Its shape ripples and forms.... IN an instant, a spear of the black substance extends from the orb, striking out at Aitome. Another soon follows, aimed at Kazuya. Both leave a small puddle of the black substance behind their target, however it goes. The puddles form more, much smaller humanoids. These shades share the orb-like eyes and starry chest of their predecessor. Eris checks out the girl, she's bleeding pretty badly. It is difficult to hear over the sound of combat, but a faint voice can be made out G: So.... Sorry.... Trouble..... My fault....

Through the steam suddenly a pair of glowing red eyes can be seen. The eyes of Abel glisten brightly as the cold once again clusters around his hands. Abel jumps away from Belberith before shouting. "Get behind me if you don't want to be cooked alive!" Belberith's eyes begin glowing with a yellow spark as Kazuya points his palms towards both Nexus and Belberith. The cold energy stretches forths as an icy wall builds up between Kazuya and Belberith slowly. When the ice wall is completely separating the steam on Belberith's side its eyes burst with power as electricity spreads from every head on its body. The electricity would spread through the condensed steam to amplify its power creating a massive cluster of energy that will surround Nexus completely. "No way this will be the end if it's anything near the level of YHVH but this should at least leave a mark."

Aitome grunts at the sludge and jumps back to prevent any further damage, meeting face to face with the new shade More of them? Gah... there has to be some way to stop them from being created... Aitome is about to run into the fray when it suddenly sparks to life, almost shocking her as she stops and instead decides to assist Homura, running over to the shade and adding a layer of holy light onto her blade before doing a rising slash with it across its back, using a blast of fire from her feet to propel herself upwards

Fortunately, the ice blocks off Aitome's attempt to charge forward towards Homura. As Homura and the girl are both rather near Nexus, they are forced to remain on the other side of the barrier. Homura's bomb strikes the shade in the chest, causing it to stumble back and begin to dissolve.... She makes it over to Eris and the other girl.... And that's when disaster strikes. Belberith sends forth a massive surge of electricity. It pulses all the way through the steam, striking Eris, Homura, and the other girl. Fortunately, as they are on the edges of the steam they do not receive the brunt of the blow. Nexus, on the other hand, is not so lucky. The electricity surges through their form, and the orb slowly begins to evaporate, its exterior steaming and bubbling as the electricity courses through Nexus.... In moments, it seems to dissolve away into that familiar black mist. The two shades behind Aitome and Kazuya rush towards the two while they are distracted, one lashes out at Kazuya from behind, its claws stinging and burning with the same acid as the many other attacks, the other approaches Aitome from the side, catching Kazuya's eye as it rushes forward, aiming for the girl's neck, The ground rumbles again as the mist gets a hold of itself and begins to take shape. It coalesces, much like before, and forms that same, liquid orb. It takes shape directly in front of Homura, Eris, and the girl. It ripples and speaks again N: Give up, accept serenity. The will of a few cannot hope to stand against the wishes of all.... Aceept your fate, and embrace eternity. The orb spins once more, vertically this time. It lashes out with a more solid form this time, sending out a massive branch in an attempt to crush Belberith, taking a large chunk of Kazuya's wall out with it. The girl coughs up a little blood and looks at Homura and Eris, smiling. She seems to be having a difficult time breathing, but is still very much alive... G: Please.... You have to kill me.... I.... Without me, Nexus has no anchor. So please, end this.... I.... I never wanted it to go so far..... E: N.... Don't talk like that... You'll get out of here too. If.... If you don't..... Then... Eris can't seem to bring herself to speak any further, she looks at the girl, no longer in reverence, or in pity, but with fear in her eyes.

Abel tries to block the blow as the harmonizer technology cushions the strike. The direct strike still hits him as red sparks fly off seemingly reducing the slash to a mere scratch however the acid is not reduced by the harmonizer and thus a slight amount clings to Abel's chest causing it to burn as red sparks fizzle from time to time. Belberith is crushed by the orbs strike as disintegrates into red sparks. Abel noticing his lack of demon decides to find cover but must take care of the shade first. Abel holds his palm upwards as a ball of pure energy forms into it. He throws the ball of energy at the shade as it expands to a much larger size midair. While the shade is distracted he would attempt to move away to gain some distance as he attempts to summon a new demon onto the field.

The electric attack slams right into the girl... Thankfully for her being a Magical Girl is good for more than a flashy costume, her nerves feel a bit off and she moves slowly for a moment, but eventually her Soul Gem glows and the girls sighs in relief as her body returns to normal... The other girl however looks less okay, and Homura quickly leans down with energy covering her hands, the magic hopefully flows through her and well it won't fix everything it should keep her from dying. Maybe get her up again if she's especially tough. "Hi there I'm Homura Akemi and I don't give up on people, now you shouldn't die thanks to my magic but straining yourself too much would be bad so sit tight okay? And if you know anything about our foe now would be a great time to tell us as well, anyways we can talk more later but for now just know you'll be fine!" And Homura stands up, pointing her shield towards Nexus and preparing to block any attacks that might come towards them... Unless just can't react in time that is.

C-careful! That attack could have hurt someone Digimon Summoner 2.0! Gak! Aitome then notices the shades incoming and clenches her hands as they radiate with light, being enveloped with fire and light before channeling the energy through the short sword and firing a laser directly into the shade that Kaz was not distracting I promised to change your fate and I won't go back on it! You better remember that! I won't go down without a fight!

Kazuya's orb flies directly into the shade, it begins to steam and dissolve into a mist. It maintains a solid enough form, to stumble towards him.... Only to dissolve before actually reaching the summoner. The shade approaching Aitome is shot through the middle of the brand on its chest. the black substance steams and splashes out of its form, before it collapses into a puddle directly in front of her. Looking down, Aitome notices some of the acid managed to splash onto her clothes, but it soon falls off, no harm done. Under Homura's care, the girl's condition improves a little, enough to stabilize her at least. It seems she was beaten up pretty badly outside. She coughs and attempts to speak, only for Eris to silence her. E: T.... There has to be another way, I'm sure of it. All we have to do is destroy them.... Right? As Homura turns and prepares to block, a single, black tendril reaches out for the girl, swiping Eris and Homura aside. The tendril grabs the girl, and brings her behind the orb, almost as if trying to protect her N: Those who seek suffering, who bring ruin upon their fellow man, tremble, and perish before the will of all. Embrace thine wish, and suffer in futility. The orb spins, horizontally this time. Rather than lash out with any appendages, it sends out a wave of dark energy towards the group. It washes over them, first Homura, then Eris, next Aitome and finally Kazuya. The wave is filled, not only with a surge of dark energy, but also with a sense of sorrow and dread, washing over the group. They can feel the anguish that brought Nexus forth, an intense desire, one strong enough to bring many to their knees

As the darkness washes over Abel he seems fine at first and tries to begin the summoning. Suddenly, his eyes begin flashing rapidly between blue and red as he grabs his head. His head begins pounding in pain as Kazuya's will is slowly widdled down. His eyes settle on blue for a moment. "I-I can't fight this...I-I want to live! I-I don't want to die!" Visions of numbers slowly counting down to zero fill his head as the horrors of the lockdown spark freshly in his mind. He drops to his knees as the Comp falls to the ground.

Ah! More sludge? *Aitome clenches her teeth in preparation to be burned but instead, it falls off, Aitome looking quite confused but shrugs it off We must find a way! The Lady In Purple is right! We have t- w-whats going on? *Aitome then sees the incoming despair wave and begins to succumb, falling down and yelling in pain before falling silent and looking onward with darkness in her eyes, before shaking it off and grunting No.. not this again.. just hold out for a bit Ai.. there has to be something you can do... stay hopeful...

Homura... Snaps for a moment, the jewel turning blacker and blacker as she rushes right at Nexus. Somehow or another her magic seems a bit different at this point, a black wave of energy flying from her hands right towards the orb, aiming to slice a hole straight through it's center. And as she moves mad laughter erupts from the girl, sounding akin to a cackling witch. "Heh so I guess this is despair you're using on us? Well it's an interesting choice... But now I'm going to rend you to bits you stupid manifestation of pointless masses!" A mad grin crosses over her face, in spite of the great sadness filling Homura's head for some reason violence seems entirely too fun at the moment. OOC: Soul Gem 65% Dark.

Eris falls to her knees, remembering a time long ago, as a child. When she first ventured out into the world.... It is like she is a child again, wandering clueless into an abyss of suffering E: It.... Its all my fault.... This is the end, isn't it? Homura's slashing passes straight through the orb, it splits, only to reshape and reform, no harm done. The girl, laying behind Nexus, reaches out towards Homura, but is way too far to do anything N: Fools, accept your fate. Those who resist the will of all, those who reject peace, those who seek to bring ruin upon mankind, receive your punishment. The orb spins once more, preparing another wave of energy. This time, it doesn't even need to expand, forming a cage of sorts around the combatants. The dark is much stronger this time....... Soon, they begin to hear voices, many of which are familiar to them. G: Come on, you're not giving up yet are you? Don't let some overgrown wish-machine tell you who's boss. We don't need it, and neither do you. You can beat it, remember that. Next is the voice of a child, one Aitome and Kazuya would find familiar. E: I.... I know it can be scary, a lot of the time... B.... But there's no reason to give in.... We don't have to listen to them, j.... Even if they're right. We'll just make our own way. Finally, the voice of a flamboyant young man, another one Kazuya and Aitome would recognize Q: There's nothing wrong with pain, and suffering. its a natural part of life. We must accept it, and move forward. No god can tell us that. OOC: If anyone is watching and wants to give their own words of encouragement, please do so. The orb begins to distort again, changing shapes rapidly as though unable to control itself. Its shape becomes more solid than before, and the dark energy disappates around them..... Its finally time.

Philemon's voice rings out for a brief moment. Do not give in. You are all the deciders of your own fate. Whatever despair you may feel you can always find a way through it by forging your own path. You have my belief as well children of fate. I am counting on you returning safely.

A voice rings out in the back of Homura's mind, amidst the darkness... Homura-chan... I don't know where you are right now, but I can't help but feel like you're in trouble, and I can't get to you... It makes me feel scared and helpless, but... I know that whatever you're facing right now, you can do it, Homura-chan! You're so much stronger than you think you are, maybe even stronger than me... In my heart I know that we are connected, no matter how far apart we are. So please don't give into despair, Homura-chan... I almost died to protect you, and I wasn't deceiving myself doing that! Come home safe, and let's find Sayaka-chan, Mami-san and Kyoko-san, and fight together and have fun together! I believe in you. I love you, Homura-chan!

... A black jewel appears in her hands, the girl quickly brings it near her Soul Gem, the black inside flowing into the Grief Seed as she smiles to herself. And to think she almost... Well it's just a good thing that happened. And Philemon too huh? Well time to get this show on the road again. "Come on everyone we can do this... I know seems may seem hopeless and that you just want to give up and cry, but even so we can still do this! So what if she's the will of "everyone", that claim's false just cause we're standing here isn't it!? I'm not about to give up and let her win, so neither should anyone else!" And with that the girl replaces her shotgun, taking aim at whatever the hell Nexus turned into with some quick shots from her sniper rifle. Before turning towards Aitome and Kazuya then grinning at them, who knows? Maybe seeing her will do them some good.

Kazuya gets back onto his feet as he looks up his eyes split between blue and red as they form into a vibrant violet. No matter what happens now he knows that his path forward is clear. If his memories were what was locking him down he would simply go back to his base instincts to survive. The freedom of humankind, the fate of everyone around him, the tyranny of a false god. He felt that he had no choice but to fight on. "No more messing around. Nexus, I don't care who or what you are! Humans don't need your guidance to be happy!" A bright white light engulfed Kazuya as he walked forward. With one swift motion, he lifted an arm to the sky as circles of light began forming on after another. "Judgment!" He lowered his hand as the circles fused into one and rained a beam of light down upon Nexus.

Gaaaaahhh! Aitome gets torn asunder by the darkness before hearing the voices, opening her eyes as they glow a bright white, strong enough to pierce the darkness as it disappears she stands up Your right.. nothing will stop us... your just another obstacle in our way! Aitome begins to radiate a bright light as she gathers energy from the voices, smiling as she does so Children of Fate huh? Hehe.. Ill one up that, how about a Warrior of Destiny!?! Let's do this Vestal. Aitome then spins and reveals an evoker, using it to summon a giant golden bell as she begins to pour the energy into a ball as Vestal tolls once again, a loud ring dong ding is heard You... who has been fated to ruin... who has traveled down a path of despair, I, the Changer Of Fate shall set you free from your ill-fated destiny! Come! Hopeful Crusade! Aitome then releases her grip on the ball as it explodes in a fury of white, striking down anything hostile in its path and ripping away any dark energy left in the air before Ai falls down on her knees, breathing deeply Gah... hehe.. perhaps a little too explosive? Aitome then gives Homura a thumbs up with a smile and tries to stand again with shaky legs, obviously exhausted

The orb twists and writhes attempting to maintain its form, but, in spite of its vessel's presence, it seems to be struggling. N: I am Nexus, that is my name. By Man's desire am I brought forth, and man's desire shall I fulfill. Eris stands up, she holds one amulet tightly, glowing in the darkness. Its light shines brighter and brighter, much more rapidly than those before it, as though the thoughts of millions were being sent their way E: Our desire is simple, to make a new world. One without you in it. The amulet bursts, like those before it, and from the light emerges another angel. Her slick, black wings are almost invisible in the darkness. It is difficult to tell much about the angel, as she dashes through the orb, cleaving it in two before dissapating into the wind. Homura's shots rip through the orb's mostly solid exterior, leaving many holes in each side, exposing more of Nexus's inner workings. Kazuya's beam of light seems to originate from infinitely high, no matter, they crash down upon the exposed and vulnerable orb, tearing into its very essence, and beginning to dissolve it. Aitome's own burst of energy dispells what remains in the area, any left over acid, the bodies of the shades, even the sense of pain is completely gone. The group is left standing, in an open area, with only each other, Eris, and the girl left.... Or so it seems. The orb tries to reform again, its voice echoing through the chamber N: F... Foolish. So long as they need my assistance, I can never go away. I'll come back, over and over again, until finally mankind can be freed. It begins to coalesce into the familiar shape, only to stop, numberless voices echo out in the darkness. They're from people of all, shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Such as these. V1: I've earned my life, I don't need anyone telling me otherwise V2: Growing up can be scary, and that's ok. Being scared is a part of life. V3: There's no need to cry anymore. So long as I can live my life, that's enough for me. The orb slowly but surely finishes dissapating in Kazuya's light, with no more than a faint echo of its existence. A whisper in the wind. Outside of the dream, the creature's central orb bursts in a shower of light, with the attacks from both sides, the dream has finally shattered, leaving the many points of light to return back to where they came from. The Eris outside smiles, and watches the light show. Inside, the dream begins to fade away as Eris runs over, to kneel by the girl. She seems to be struggling, though she's still not dead. She smiles, and holds Eris's hand G: You've grown, haven't you? You're no longer the scared little girl who first called out to us.... I wish I could have met you earlier. But, I suppose none of that matters now....

Kazuya smiles as the dream ends. His eyes violently shining with a violet hue now. They begin to cool back down into their regular blue but Kazuya can feel his mind beginning to shatter slightly as his memories start to seep in. It seems he's finally starting to remember everything without Abel's influence. A mild headache begins in the back of his head that seems to only grow by the second but not wanting to interrupt Eris' moment he ignores it. "So, did we do it? Is the dream finally over?"

Homura grins to her proudly, honestly she was expecting a battle on par with Walpurgisnacht herself tonight... In spite of getting a bit rough from the despair? This went far better then she would of expected. Kazuya however seems less than good and she glances over to the boy with a worried look on her face, geez what's with all these people she meets giving her reasons to worry anyways? "I'm pretty sure it is Kazuya-san! And um are you feeling alright after everything that happened tonight? If you need healing or anything then I could help you out..."

Aitome takes a few deep breathes before taking in the change of scenery, as well as watching the light Whew.. if that's not a sight I don't know what is! What did I say? Another fate changed another person saved! Hehe.. Aitome then notices the eyes changing colors and shifts over to Kaz Hey.. are you okay? Do you have a split personality? I kinda noticed with the color changing.. im sorry if I'm prying..

Once the dream finishes fading, the group finds themselves in a field, outside yet another forest. Kazuya would remember this area from his journey, though the others found a way around. Another Eris is waiting outside. Eris approaches the young girl, found in the dream, and kneels next to the other Eris E1: Don't worry, it'll be fine. Everyone's safe now. E2: I can't believe that actually worked. Nexus is really gone? G: Its *cough cough* Its almost over, you two still need to do something. Not exactly normal, your condition. All three of the girls laugh, bright and free for the first time in a while. The Erises look towards each other, one last time, and take hold of each other's hands..... In a brief flash of light, only one remains, the real Eris. She looks back at the group, taking note of Kazuya's attempts to stumble away, and helps the other girl to her feet. The pair walk up to the others, struggling through E: Sorry for all the trouble I've caused. But, I suppose now that Nexus is gone... The world is safer? I.... Sorry if it seems like I'm excusing this. I.... I know what I did was wrong The other girl smiles at Eris, leaning on her for support L: Don't worry Eris, its in the past now. We simply have to move forward... Oh, and before I forget. Sorry, I didn't have the chance to introduce myself to most of you. Please, call me Losaria. That is, or at least was, my name.

(Well considering I'm done work now and we are back in the forest... jump in time!) Aincrad leans against a tree smiling at the group and giving them a thumbs up. "Great going everyone, that's another deity defeated and another notch in our belt." He stands up and stretches and yawns. "So anything left to do? Or is it time to actually relax?"

Aitome observes the fusion dance? Whatever happens to Eris and smiles back, waving it off Oh it's fine! I don't really like to dwell on the past, better to push forward right? Ai then turns towards the girl in white, scratching the back of her head Mm! Just like she said! It's good that your back to normal Lotus! Are you sure your going to be okay though? Aitome then jumps back at the sudden voice, turning to Aincrad Oh! Mr.Carnival! Good to see you again! Where have you been? At any rate it should be good! Just another day in the crazy place huh?

He shrugs and smiles. "Here, there, stuck in a dream. The usual." He walks towards the group. "What about you sis? Any good stories to share? Besides the one currently happening." He smirks and analyzes Eris and Losaria. "So I understand Eris, but two things I don't. One, why were there two of you Eris? And second, why possess you miss Losaria? That's very curious to me."

Heh.. sounds like you've had a better day then me, I had to fight a person that I thought was dead as an illusion in that dream then they came back alive for real, it was... confusing... to say the least, Aitome then turns to Eris, thinking about it Hmm... you do raise a point... why are there two of you?

Eris chuckles and looks between Aincrad and Aitome. Oh there’s only one of her now, she closes her eyes and thinks for a moment before answering. E: It was a... Quirk of my status as dream keeper. A sort of omnipresence. There were as many Erises as there were dreamers. But, now that the dream has ended, it’s just me now. No need to worry about finding more.... I think. Losaria looks at Aincrad, and speaks up, though her voice is a little faint and weak L: I told them to leave me, much easier to eliminate Nexus that way.... But they wouldn’t have if. It.... It’s been a long time. I don’t know what I’ll do anymore.

W-what?!? There was one of you for everyone?!? H-how many existed? Over a thousand? I can't even imagine that many! Aitome then begins to calm down from the freakout as she turns to Losaria, trying to comfort her Don't worry about that! Everyone is lost in this world! We all just chase our dreams, but I think that's okay, we just have to keep looking and improving for the future!

Aincrad raises an eyebrow. "Interesting indeed, that must've been some experience then, fighting with yourself." He smiles and stretches. "At least now all your thoughts are in one collective whole, now more splits." He then turns to Losaria. "Normally I would ask more but you seem fairly worn out, for good reason. And don't worry bout not knowing what to do. Just wing it. That works for me, though I may not be the best example."