The Battle for Mt Olympus II

The Battle for Mt Olympus II
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Game information
Host	Itachi-san
Link	The Battle for Mount Olympus 2
Size	17 Players (Large)
Start Date	February 17, 2009
Winning Faction	Achaeans
Roster	#, player SomeGuy Impervious Lost in space GreyCells Prof. Templeton dawh Fox Brandonb Riddle Master Zack Star_Tiger Artificial I Riranor Impervious2 (Joe's Student) SomeGuy2 (Randro) twin bro IDoNotExist Fox2 (CrazyPainter)
First to Die	Lost in space
Last Remaining	Brandonb, Artificial I, Riranor, Fox2
MVP
Awards	-

The Battle for Mt Olympus II was a game designed and hosted by Itachi-san based on Greek mythology

It began on February 17, 2009 and ended in a Achaeans win in D9 (March 13th).

Game Mechanics

Rules

BTSC: A special thanks to rookie for setting up 2 hidden forums for this game. There is one for the Baddies (Hades' group) and one for the Goodies (the Achaeans). Once recruited by Hades or Odysseus, players will gain access to their respective forum. Please use these forums with the same respect as you would any other part of BrainDen.

Traveling: Hades never moves from his Castle. Persephone begins by the Lake. If recruited by Hades, she stays in his Castle. If recruited by the Achaeans, she moves like they do. Perseus and Theseus start at random places and move one area per Night. Hermes starts randomly and can move however he pleases. All other players have initial starting points (Achaeans all start on the Surface with the exception of Odysseus) and can move 1 or 3 areas every odd Night and 2 areas on even Nights.

Actions, Attacks and Deaths: All physical Actions are only possible if both characters involved are on the same side of the River Styx. An Attack can only be made if both Players involved are on the same side of the River Styx. If they are not on the same side, the victim cannot be found. If any Player dies on the Surface, they wind up in a random area of Tartarus. If a Player dies in Tartarus, they are permanently killed from the game. Below is a list of the areas (in order):

1) The Surface
~The River Styx~
2) Ixion's Path
3) Hell Swamp
4) The Valley of Sisyphus
5) Fire Cave
6) Dungeons
7) Snakes' Cavern
8) Prometheus' Mountain
9) Tantalus' Lake
10) Volcanic Pits
11) Hades' Castle

The Daily Plea and Sacrifice: Each team only may get 3 independents during the game. They each require 2 pleas. A plea MUST be made by the voted victim before the Daily Sacrifice. The Sacrifice is not fatal though. The victim is revealed as (Olympian, Achaean, or Monster) and are made powerless for that Night. They are also sent to the opposite side of the River Styx (The Surface or Ixion's Path) than where they resided that Day and cannot move that Night.

Each team may only have 2 Gods maximum at any given time.

Days are 24 hours. Nights are a lenient 24 hours. Night 1 begins now and ends in roughly 24 hours. I'll send PMs out shortly. Please remember to include your Night's Travels with your action(s). It will help to have some knowledge of all the Characters if you want to get extra hints from the Night and Day Posts.

Also, remember that all Characters from the previous game have a hidden ability and there are 4 Players with hidden Abilities as well. The Story will begin with the first Night Post.

---

update made at start of D6:

Day 6 begins now. Like I said, I don't have a problem if teams want to powerplay the votes of some players who are/will be inactive (as long as those players don't mind and/or are too inactive to even reply to this) so that each team has their maximum voting capacity.

Also, assuming the Achaeans don't mind, there's a clear flaw in the game that needs to be addressed. If the Monsters lose all their killing roles, a random player (from the Baddie side) will be chosen to have a killing ability each night. 100% on humans. 50% on Gods.

Role Description

Hades and the Monsters of Tartarus:

1. Hades - Hades and Cerberus start with BTSC. Hades can only be killed by Odysseus and only if Odysseus is at Hades' Castle. Hades can guess 3 actions each Night and nullify them, learn IDs and gain BTSC partners depending on what he guesses. He can also send people from Tartarus (each Character only once during the Game though). If he is voted to be sacrificed, he will select one player who voted for him to be sent back up to the surface (regardless of prior evictions).
2. Cerberus - begins with BTSC with Hades. May Kill each night with 100% accuracy, 50% against Gods. Cerberus must be killed 3 times (once for each head)
3. Argus - Given to Hades by Hera. All-seeing with 100 eyes. Spies the ID of anyone that passes through the Dungeons. Knows half of the code to Odysseus' freedom. If killed, will get the info to Hades.
4. Medusa - Can petrify one player per night so they have no action and cannot Travel. If she petrifies the same person 3 Nights in a row they will shatter and die.
5. The Minotaur - May protect one Player per Night, but never himself. If he protects anyone from the same Character twice, he will retaliate with a 50% accurate counter-attack. Knows half of Odysseus' freedom. If killed, will get the info to Hades.
6. The Siren - Her song will halve the final accuracy (including Nestor's influence) of her victim's actions. The effect also makes them have 50% chance of death next Night as well, unless Nestor sets them straight that following Night with a good story.

The Achaeans:

1. Odysseus - Odysseus and Calchus start with BTSC. Odysseus begins the Game shackled in Tartarus without any power but his mind. No one can be sacrificed for him unless he is freed. Odysseus can kill and is vulnerable to be killed at Night once he is freed and Apollo is dead. He has 100% accuracy against humans and 50% against Gods and Monsters. He must be the last Greek standing. Someone will sacrifice themself for Odysseus if he is targeted (Odysseus selects the character from a list provided by Poseidon). Again, he must be freed for sacrifices to be made for his life. May guess 3 actions and choose: Nullify them, learn IDs and/or recruit into BTSC. Odysseus knows how he can be saved.
2. Calchus - begins with BTSC with Odysseus. Foretells a random Action each night.
3. Diomedes – Kills humans and monsters with 50% chance. 25% on Gods. If he doesn't kill his victim he will befriend them for the Night and Protect them. If he fails to kill the same Player twice, he will befriend them permanently and not be able to Attack them again.
4. Athena - Can stop the Daily Sacrifice, but not twice in a row. She may Protect one person each Night as well, but never herself.
5. Apollo – Zeus has taken over the responsibility of pulling the Sun across the Sky in Apollo's absence. Apollo's skill with the Bow and Arrow is slightly diminished since he is so far from his dominion. He may kill each night with 100% accuracy, but he cannot kill other Gods.
6. Nestor - Can boost any attacking Character to 100% kill accuracy with a rousing story of the good ole days.

Independents:

1. Charon - Can deny one Player passage to or from Tartarus once per cycle. This includes people who die above surface during the Night. They will have to stay dead and try to Travel to Tartarus the next Night.
2. Hermes - Can send a message once per cycle to any Player. Can freely travel to anyplace he wishes.
3. Persephone - She is being punished by Hades. She cannot die while hidden. If she stays hidden for 3 cycles though, she will join Hades' side automatically and reside at his Castle. Persephone begins by the Lake. If recruited by Hades, she stays in his Castle. If recruited by the Achaeans, she moves like they do. She can use her influence in Tartarus to save someone and block all action taken on that Player each night how ever many times, not including herself.
4. Perseus - a warrior wandering Tartarus in search of a good fight. Can kill each night. Can kill Medusa with 100% accuracy. All other kill attempts are 25% (50% if recruited). Will learn ID of victim though.
5. Theseus - another warrior lost, wandering Tartarus to fulfill a forgotten desire. Can kill each night. Can kill the Minotaur with 100% accuracy. All other kill attempts are 25% (50% if recruited). Will give his ID to his victim though, if they survive.

Host's Summary

Game

Secret Abilities:: finally revealed ;)

• Players:
• Brandonb: Gains the ID of anyone who attacks him.
• Prof. Templeton: Able to use a random Monster's power each Night in addition to his normal power.
• SomeGuy: Will counter-attack anyone who attacks him (assuming they fail) with a 50% chance of killing his attacker
• dawh: Can turn invisible (not 2 nights in a row) and avoid all contact except Hades' guess

• Characters:
• Odysseus: Can select any player who has voted for him that Day, to be made powerless for the Night.
• Calchus: Can sway a vote once every 3 days as long as there are 2 different victims not voted for by the Achaean BTSC
• Apollo: Once per game, can shoot a sacred arrow through the ceiling of Tartarus. Light will pour in and blind all, except for himself, from making any malicious actions. (too bad this one never got used...)
• Nestor: Can talk with someone in addition to his normal pep talk and prevent them from moving that night.
• Athena: Can save two people ever other Night.
• Diomedes: Can target two people every other Night.
• Hermes: Can override Charon’s duty if he guesses Charon's victim and can bring one person to any specific location once per cycle.

Thanks for playing everyone! This has really been a fun game for me and I hope for all of you as well. Sorry about the little glitches and overlapping of powers, but from a spectators view, they didn't have much impact. Congratulations to the Achaeans for a masterful win, and to the Monsters for an almost equally executed fight. ...till next time

---

Thanks a lot everyone! You all really did outstanding. I have to disagree about the Secrets giving the Achaeans the edge though. Just think about some things that favor the Baddies, or that the Baddies missed

• Hades can only be killed by Odysseus and at his Castle -though this made you guys too complacent :duh: You automatically get Persephone basically. Both PT and SG had secrets. Hermes was by far the most underrated character, even for his normal actions -he can be on the Surface every Night potentially, and therefore almost completely immortal as well. Nestor's normal 100% boost ability was very underrated as well. Plus, the Monsters were much more difficult to kill than the Humans.

Winning Faction

1. LIS - Apollo
2. Kat - Calchus
3. Bb - Odysseus
4. ST - Athena
5. Riranor - Nestor
6. Kat2 - Diomedes
7. Artificial I - Hermes - recruited

Day and Night Posts

Night 1: A New Beginning

Zeus stared wildly at the crystal floor of his throne room, though his hands remained steady and curled over the arms of his throne. Hera waited for him to calm down as she stood passively in the darkness of one of the room's corners. She thought she saw his eyes lower a bit. Hera: ...M.my Lord? Zeus raised his right arm and let it crash down onto the throne smashing right through the side of it. As the pieces fell to the floor he stood and walked slowly to the window. He could see the seas of Earth churning, the trees swaying and the ominous black clouds flying over it all from Mount Olympus. Zeus whirled around on Hera, his robe whipping with the movement. Hera looked up briefly and met his murderous gaze. Then he began to march toward her, each footstep accompanied by the name of one his most favored men. Zeus: Priam... *step* Agamemnon... *step* Achilles.... *step* and now... now Odysseus as well! What have you done with him. Why is Hades involved? Hera: Ask him yourself! Zeus was taken aback. Then recomposed himself enough to understand that Hera had indeed begun a plot to overthrow him. Just as he'd imagined. How she got Hades' interest was beyond him, but for now Zeus knew what to do. Hera: You look determined my husband, my brother. But you cannot kill me. Zeus: We'll see my dear... If the fates allow it, your life is over. A rush of wind passed before Zeus and in that instant Hera disappeared. Zeus saw his son Hermes, despite how fast he had flown through the chamber. "Two Gods means a revolution is at hand. Curse them! Hera and Hermes are forever exiled from Olympus!" Hephaestus dropped the metal he had been working into a sword when the bellowing word "exiled" reverberated throughout his home. He sighed and then continued on with his labor. Hera: I could have handled myself. *hmph* at least put me down now that we have left Olympus. Hermes landed on the shore of an isolated beach. "My dearest Mother. My intention was not to ridicule you or demean your power. I was under order to bring you here. My intentions, I fear, have been misinterpreted. Hera: Well, your timing was either perfect or horrible. I suppose I'll grant you this one mistake. Who was it that sent you, Hades? Hermes: Hmm. No, not Hades. Hera: Then who? Hermes: I'm not under liberty to say. Please forgive me Mother, but I assure you that my actions were dictated by a power greater than either of us. Hera: Greater than me? You should watch the way you talk to me. My patience is wearing thin... since I'm here though, take me to Hades. I need to converse with him about our dear friend Odysseus. --- Hera and Hermes walked through the giant black door of Hades' Castle. Entering an enormous room, they walked slowly as their divine eyes adjusted to such a deep and pitch blackness. There wasn't much to see except a large stairway leading up to a black throne. Hades sat there, no doubt laughing to himself. His pet Cerberus was laying its head on Hades' foot, laying its head on Hades' lap, and it was growling at its new guests with its third head lifted to the side of the seated Hades. Drool spilled from the growling Cerberus. It hit the floor like acid and seered and sizzled. The menacing dog had eyes like fire and its coat was jet black, like a shadow. Hades stood from his throne, his black cape still like a painting. He looked through his black armored mask at them. Hades (petting one of Cerberus' heads) : Well well. Now here's a pair. The fiendish word twister and the honest messenger. It's like the liar and the truthteller riddle. Hmm. Let's see if I can remember what to say to Hera to get the right answer... Hera: Enough! I will not be made the fool! Hera opened her palm and a brilliantly glowing ball floated from her grip up toward Hades and Cerberus. The ball hung in the air. It was a beautiful sight. Hades was puzzled. Cerberus was enthralled in its dazzling appearance. Then the ball cracked slightly and fell to the steps below it. It rocked back and forth and then a small being hatched from it, splitting the perfect sphere in half. It looked very odd, Cerberus began to growl at it. It was a little monster, but it grew by the second. It grew to completely hide Hera from Hades' view. Then all at once, it's eyes opened. So many eyes. Maybe even one hundred of them, Hades pondered. Cerberus ran from the monster and left the castle. Hades sat back down, again resolute his defiance. The beast began to move down the steps, clearing Hades' view and when it had fully descended, Hades saw that Hera and Hermes used that time to escape and leave him as if it were a joke. Hera (voice over): This is Argus. I give him to you for now. He will help you locate the intruders. Hades: Intruders? Listen Hera, I did what you asked. I have Odysseus and believe me when I say he is getting the torture you requested. Now be gone. And take this mess with you. I can handle Tartarus. Hera: Maybe, but you cannot handle these Achaean men come to save their leader. You sound like Ares and now look where he wound up. Hades: I do see Ares... every day. Never did care for him though. Too pugnacious for my tastes. I like to draw things out. I like to take my time. Hera: Time is exactly what you don't have. Once Odysseus is freed, you'll be in trouble. Heed my words Brother Hades. Do not take this group lightly. --- Prometheus opened his eyes to a new day. His eyes were red and pouring tears from the chronic agony of his punishment. So thirsty and even his tears dried before they reached his mouth. He blinked several times, clearing his vision. He looked up to the right to see his hand shackled to the side of the mountain. Then to the left to see his other hand in the same predicament. He sighed and looked down at his fully-healed belly. Odysseus: Finally awake my friend? Prometheus (Startled): Ah! Oh... why must you frighten me new one? Though, will I get used to your company? Shackled just as I am, waiting for the daily punishment as I do. We are a hopeless couple. Nothing more, nothing less. Odysseus: Waiting? We're already shackled up here. Prometheus: Shackled? Ha! This is nothing. Look over yonder. Here they come. The ravens. To eat us today and then tomorrow all over again. Odysseus: *gulp* I should have known Hades would be crueler than that. Am I defeated? How can one esca...? Wait.. what? Ah! Prometheus: What is it? Odysseus: A familiar voice, in my mind. Prometheus: Oh, lunacy has finally found you! I must say, you didn't last very long. Not even for a human. --- Calchus held his head to the ground, feeling, pushing dirt around. The Achaeans all had become impatient, tapping feet, breathing loudly and sighing. Diomedes practiced his forms with his one arm. He had to relearn the sword due to his injury. Calchus noticed none of his fellow Achaeans. He was listening for something. ...There! Nestor: Did you find something? Did you find him? Calchus: Yes, I have a slight connection with Odysseus' mind. Now we just need to descend. Diomedes stopped spinning his blade. "Alright, and how do we do that?" Three rays of light came forth from the sky and all pelted into the Achaeans. Through Nestor, through Diomedes, through Calchus. Diomedes grabbed the God-like shaft of the arrow that had pierced him and looked up at Apollo and Athena who had just arrived. Athena placed a coin in each of their mouths and then pushed them over, all dead on the ground. Apollo: That's how you get to Tartarus dear Humans. Easier done than explained, right Sister? Athena: I'm hardly your Sister Apollo. Now let's go. I've heard all the pieces are in play. I fear us being late might risk Odysseus' future. --- The Achaean group was split up that night though. Nestor had began to fear death in his old age and now ironically death was a necessary part of his journey. He began to ramble on and on about the past. Apollo took interest and felt himself getting more powerful from the old man's words. It was an inspiring story of a brilliant general. LIS also took note of the wise man's words, but he was a bit confused. He wondered if the general had indeed been successful since his victory meant so much sacrifice. LIS thought about it so much, he forgot to even travel anywhere tonight. --- GC heard a hissing noise behind him and he turned! Nothing. He kept walking. Then he saw a huge shadow approaching from the corridor in front of him. He rushed at the intersection, but again... nothing. Though he was cloaked in silence, he felt the icy breath of someone behind him. He turned! His eyes widened and froze that way. The snakes sprung from Medusa's hair like arrows and intertwined themselves all around GC. His body was frozen solid. Medusa raised a hand to caress his face. She tilted her head to look at him and then disappeared back into the shadows. The hissing of the snakes slowly fading away. GC stood right where he began. Like a statue. His mind was sharp as ever though. He could slowly feel his body thawing. He hoped he would be able to move in time to not be caught by that witch again. --- Perseus stalked Tartarus and came across PT. Perseus was full of rage and hatred and ready to attack anyone he happened upon that night. He brandished his sword and flung himself at PT. A huge blast of light blinded Perseus right before his sword connected. He wound up stabbing the ground and PT was standing right next to him. Perseus: So that's who you are! PT: ;) --- Twin Bro heard the sound of a rare beauty. He could not help but follow it. To find out where it could possibly be emanating from, and what beauty was singing such grace? He found the Siren. A hideous monster with the voice of a sea nymph tenfold. Twin Bro fell victim to the Siren's song and now feels as if he may even die tomorrow night.

Day 1: 2

SomeGuy ran up to the bank of the River Styx. The dock creaked as he waited for the ferry. Winds blew fiercely so that SG had to grab his robe tight. Then, off in the distance, traversing the angry River, came the cowled form of Charon. His ferry seemed as if it were a painting, moving closer, but never moving as far as the eyes could tell. SG knew he wanted aboard, but the ferryman sent chills up his spine nevertheless. SG (deep in thought): I must get to the Surface. I'll have a better chance up there. I can always return if need be. For this small sacrifice, I can earn favor in that crazed warrior's heart. The one who called himself Theseus. He's a strong one. An extra killing sword is always welcome when such a battle arises. Ah, he's almost here. Charon docked the ferry near SG, but just as SG was about to board, Charon raised a cloaked arm and held him back. SG began to get impatient, but then saw the form of someone running toward the ferry. It was Kat! She ran aboard the ferry, Charon let his arm fall, and then SomeGuy boarded as well. Charon gave the darkness a long look before he departed. SG could have sworn he saw Impervious standing in the distance, approving Charon's duty. But he vanished like an apparition and SG thought no more of him. --- Impervious watched the ferry embark toward the surface as he gestured toward Charon that his Plea was for the ferryman to join his side and take that Kat in his stead. Impervious then left the scene and returned to more pressing matters. Both Kat and SomeGuy arrived at the border of the Surface. SG flipped a coin around his fingers and thought he may need a fortune to keep this up. Stranded on the surface, powerless, SG sat and began his long wait, but Kat began to walk. SG: where are you going? aren't you powerless? Kat: psht! Me? I'm not so eager to give up my power. My departure had no hitches. Oh, and I'd watch my back if I were you...

Night 2: Beware of Dog: Trespassers will be Burned and Eaten Alive

The Achaeans, mostly gathered near the River Styx, began preparing for their descent into the Underworld. On the banks of the Styx, Nestor gave a rousing speech to quell any fears his fellow Achaeans may have been stirring. He told them of Hercules and how he once ventured to the Underworld. They, he said, could match the half-God's achievement and free Odysseus from his torture. Diomedes jumped up, invigorated, and then spun around and stabbed into the wall beside him. His spear pierced the back of a rat. "Watch out for spies," Diomedes warned as he ran into the darkness, screaming and howling, overzealous for any encounter he could find. Anyone he could kill in this horrible place to free his friend. Nestor's story had the opposite effect on ST though. She began to feel helpless as if her power was weaning and would never be able to compare to the mighty Hercules and his feats in this awful place of despair and imprisonment. Suddenly, those near the River began to walk slowly from the water's edge. It was rising, faster and faster, until some began running from it. They looked back as the river began to launch itself at them with pitch black waves, all thinking, "What is happening to this place?" --- SomeGuy fell backwards from Charon's empty gaze. "I want on this ferry! I have brought the fee. You must accept it!" Charon: I deny your passage. It's just as well. I have other pressing matters. SG recoiled as Charon's cowl waved opened slightly, revealing his rotted face and empty eye sockets. He looked as if he was Death itself, the living dead, a monster too cold to bargain with. There was nothing to it. SG was stuck. Charon turned back toward the River and raised his rotted arms. The River began to rise, more and more rapidly as time went on. SG stepped back, amazed, and then quickly hurried back the way he had come. He could hear Charon speaking, to who if anyone, SG was not certain. "The shores of the River Styx are no more. Those who have dared invade Tartarus may still cross the River if I allow it, but I will no longer harbor freeloaders on these banks! Hence forth, know that you may only be on the Surface, where you belong, or down in Tartarus, where you will end up anyway. Those of you who were here tonight will randomly be thrown to either side!" Charon let forth a maniacal laugh the likes of which can never even be described outside of Hades' realm. --- For many warriors, the Night was nothing short of a wild goose chase. Diomedes eventually calmed down and sheathed his sword. He let out a loud grunt and continued to pace the area he had run to, looking for JS around every corner. Athena could not find Brandonb, just as Apollo could not find SG. And the slithering Medusa backed into a nearby cave after tiring from looking for RMZ. --- Theseus found himself in a stalemate while battling Artificial I. When both tired, Theseus gave the man his name and offered a second duel in the future since this one had been so satisfying. "It's always good to find worthy opponents!" Theseus remarked as he left Artificial I, taking deep breaths, trying to settle his body after such a grueling fight. --- For others though, their fates were destined to collide this night. Deep within Tartarus, two extremely dangerous opponents faced off. GC looked deep into Perseus' eyes as the rugged warrior charged him, spear ready. GC dodged the spear, but as Perseus leapt into the air he unsheathed his sword from behind his shield and ran GC through. Perseus, being such a veteran of duels, quickly leapt away from the dying GC, pulling his sword out quickly. GC grabbed at the wound, blood gushed everywhere. He began to shiver and fall to the ground. Perseus whipped his sword across GC's body cleansing it of his opponents blood. The blood spattered across GC's face as he died. Just before GC fell lifeless, he seemed to hang in the air for a long moment. Perseus, thinking the battle won, turned and walked from his victim's supposed corpse. Then a sound. Perseus heard breathing. He continued walking, feigning ignorance of the odd predicament brewing behind him. "I'll fake as if I'm caught unaware, then I'll use my..." GC leapt with great speed and came crashing down on Perseus who barely had time to block the attack backwards over his head with his spear. Perseus was bent backwards and GC's now overwhelming strength was crushing his will, forcing him down to the ground where he would surely die. With his ace in the hole, he quickly kicked up his small dagger from his waist and attempted a kill stoke at GC who deftly dodged. Knowing when to give in, the sturdy Perseus used the time to make his escape. --- Ixion came rolling down the hill behind LIS. LIS moved out of the way as the screaming man rolled ceaselessly attached to that flaming wheel. "Quite a punishment," LIS thought. Then the ground began to tremble. LIS took a ready stance, but he had the ominous feeling that nothing would prepare him for what was to come. He heard a deep growl. The dull roar shook his insides. He gulped. "So this is where my story ends?" Around a gigantic boulder, one of the heads of the demonic dog Cerberus peaked. LIS made eye contact with the monstrous dog, his eyes widened in futile thought as the dog kicked the boulder over and clumsily ran after LIS. LIS made an effort to run, but he had hesitated too long. Cerberus bellowed a wave of sound that shook LIS silly and followed the roar with a blast of fire from his mouth. Cerberus inhaled and exhaled two plumes of smoke from his nostrils, snorting at the charred LIS. LIS dropped his weapon and Cerberus snatched him up quickly with his second head. Two chomps and LIS was gone. Cerberus ran off into the silent gloom of Tartarus, licking his chops.

Day 2: Deja Vu
Sorry, I'm short on time right now. Here's an abridged version: Theseus was confronted by Impervious who sealed a sacred pact with the warrior to join his side. ST tried to get close enough to listen in on their conversation, but just before she was able to hear anything, she found herself alone on the surface, both Impervious and Theseus long gone.

Night 3: The Dark Defenders

The River Styx lay dormant as a walking path. Not a ripple was to be seen on its surface. SG wrapped his robe tight around his shoulders and continued on along the banks of the surreal water. It seemed to be playing tricks with his eyes. The water's color turned blood red and then faded to a bleak white. Trying to avoid looking at the dreadful sight, SG turned his head from it and kept moving toward the ferry's rendezvous point. Each step was more difficult than the last, but this wasn't merely fatigue plaguing SG; something fowl was afoot. Then, from the river, he heard the slightest ebb of water from the shore. A glance revealed that the water was actually pulling itself away from him, as if it had no intention of granting his passage. Despite the foreboding feeling he began to develop, SG kept walking. He looked up the shore and it was as if the pier moved farther away with each step he took. Beginning to get impatient with these hallucinations, SG fought the invisible obstacle and ran as fast as he could up the riverbank, which amounted to only a quicker paced walk as it turned out. Just when SG had abandoned hope of reaching the pier, he collapsed onto his knees and let his head fall forward into the muck of the shore. "This is impossible. If the River won't allow..." Charon: The River you say? Startled, SG deftly lifted his head and spun so the mud whipped off his hair and stayed out of his face. On the River was the ferryman, Charon. He was aboard the ferry, but neither moved. He just rocked in the center of the River, goading SG. Charon: It is I who deny you passage. And as long as... A bright light filled the tunnel. Both SG and Charon were blinded for a moment. When the light vanished, SG gasped and fell back away from Charon. Charon had no idea what caused such a fearful movement, but he grinned to himself beneath his deep cowl. Teeth baring behind lips that had long ago rotted away. Amused at his prey's fear, Charon lifted a robed arm and then realized he was not alone on his ferry. A brilliantly white hand laid on Charon's forearm, giving him no other choice but to return the arm to his side. Charon hissed, but recognized his position and gave in to the God. Hermes: If you're going to be so predictable ferryman, you should really expect some opposition sooner or later, no? Haha! You two may relax, I'm just here to make sure things run smoothly. This River is meant to be passed if the price is met. Now, SG, by all means... pass. Hermes guided the ferry to the pier and kept a vigil watch until SG was safely across to the other side. Charon: You'll die down here Olympian... This is Hades realm, not Zeus'! Hermes: Take it easy ferryman, I only had interest in seeing SG pass. Besides... that's not the only trick I have up my sleeve. Laughing to himself, the fleet-foot Hermes leaped onto the thin ridge of the ferry's port side and flew off into the darkness of the tunnel. Charon stared him down under his cowl with his dead eyes. "My Lord will here of this outrage... You will join him or die, Olympian. Join him... or die. I'll even grant you free passage... just to hear of your suffering." --- The Achaeans weren't letting this evil place get the best of them, but now into the third night, still without having saved Odysseus, their spirits were falling and Nestor could see it. "Who to speak with... who to speak with?" He caught Diomedes by the arm as he passed Nestor's night vigil. The warrior learned much from Nestor and felt as if he could kill a God. He ran off full of exuberance, but Nestor only shook his head. "SG huh? Something tells me Tartarus isn't ready to lose that particular monster tonight." Nestor raised a dirty mug and drank some of the little wine he had left. "Here's to hoping I'm wrong." --- Many warriors stalked through the Night, in search of blood. Lusting for it even. But their fates did not include this night. Perseus could not find Brandonb and The Siren could not find Prof. T. Both knew something was odd about this night, but couldn't quite put their finger on it. It was as if they were in a maze and knew the way out, but the rules kept changing and the walls kept moving. Eventually, they each tired and wore their frustration away by taking it out on any nearby statues or even just random stones. Worn out they sat, ever-ready for a confrontation, but more ready to rest for the day to come. --- SG cleared his head of the strange phenomena that happened on the River. But as he shook his head a tiny shadow of a man appeared in his sights. It looked as if the man had only one arm!? He held a giant spear and carried an enormous sword strapped to his back as well. SG began to look for escape routes... fitting that there weren't any. The figure was really running fast; his silhouette was now already more than doubled since SG first noticed it. Closer and closer Diomedes came up on SG. SG stood, waiting, the sweat pouring off his head. Then the one armed warrior, Diomedes, launched his spear with the force of ten men at SG. SG held up his hands as if they could even stall the projectile, but after a few moments, nothing happened, and SG lowered his hands to see the spear hanging in front of him, completely wrapped up in vines. He was stunned. Diomedes was now almost on him. He drew the sword from his back and slashed through the vines. But they began rupturing from the ceiling and floor, the walls. They wrapped around Diomedes sword, his arm, waist, legs, neck, choking him. SG had no idea what was happening, but was glad for it. Diomedes was completely immobilized, seething with rage that only his eyes could portray. SG looked Diomedes up and down. SG: I could kill you with a rock right now, the way you are. Look at you! Haha! All tangled up like a fly in a spider's web. Tell you what. I'll give you a fighting chance. I'd say you have about a 1 in 2 chance of surviving this. SG smiled, Diomedes silently raged. Picking up a sharp stone, SG leaped about 50 paces away. He tossed the stone in his hand a few times, further humiliating Diomedes. Then threw the stone wickedly fast. It whizzed by Diomedes' left ear and flew another 100 paces until it hit ground and tumbled to a halt. SG: Lucky warrior. Lucky, lucky. I feel lucky tonight as well though. Let's meet again. SG stepped back into the shadows and was gone. The vines slowly began to rot for how could anything live very long in the land of the dead? The thought made Diomedes shout with agony. Not for himself though. He finally ripped the last whithering vine from his body, knowing SG was long gone, he bent backward and shouted again to the trembling ceiling: "Odysseus! ...dysseus!! ...ysseus!!! ...eus!!!! ...s!!!!!" Odysseus heard his companion, but was in too much pain to even tilt his head in that direction. It fell limp atop his neck once more. His mind working ceaselessly to find a way free, but his body shut down from Hades' torment. Demeter walked slowly onto a rotted patch of land. A place where just yesterday was thriving with vegetation. "My Daughter... please last through this winter so I may have you again." She knelt and lowered her hand to the land. She recoiled in pain. The pain the land had endured to answer Persephone so deep in Tartarus. Recomposing herself, she knelt back onto the land, placed her hand on it and let a single tear fall from her chin. As it hit the ground, vivid colors burst up from all over the earth, in a tapestry of waves, returning life to land that had given itself completely to Persephone's need. Demeter petted the newly-grown grass, "I'll keep you healthy. For helping her, I'll... I'll do anything. If only I could... no. The deal was made. I cannot venture to Tartarus. But if what I heard is correct, this is a very exiting time." The wind then kicked up and blew the fresh pollen across the fields of the Earth's Surface. And Demeter waited. --- GC was frozen, not literally...yet, but he stood as if he were. Accidentally, he had rounded a corner and found himself a bit lost. As he was searching around a snake-like figure descended from the ceiling. He only heard it when it landed with a disgusting splat. When he turned, he knew what to expect and thus was frozen in fear. Medusa stood behind him. The snakes in her hair reaching out to GC, closer and closer, then GC heard the rushing sound of a large weapon and the deaths of many snakes. He turned. The Minotaur stood between GC and Medusa now, his gigantic battle-axe in hand. The Minotaur pushed GC away. Minotaur: I shall be her opponent. Leave while you can. GC nodded in amazement. He ran, half looking forward, half looking behind as the two monsters fought in a battle that could only be described as epic. The Bull-headed Minotaur spinning his battle-axe around as if it were a broom. Medusa's eyes blazing a sharp beam that petrified everything in their path. Everything except the Minotaur's axe. he used the axe to deflect the deadly rays of the Snake woman. Eventually, the two parted ways, knowing Hades would not approve if one were to kill the other. GC didn't stick around long enough to see them separate though. --- dawh had walked by too many corpses to keep a settled mind anymore. Where was he? And what kind of beast could do this? The mutilated bodies were everywhere, mostly very old and just bones, but the bones were mostly shattered. It was an evil place and he felt ill-prepared. Then he felt it. He could sense a shadow building behind him. A shadow that was indeed material. He turned quickly, but could do nothing. All there was was a shadow. He then thought to pierce the shadow. This strange shadow of a dog. But he hadn't thought of it fast enough. A clawed paw came shooting up from the two-dimensional shape and it ripped right through dawh's left shoulder. He deftly avoided a fatal blow, but only by a hair. He then thought to use his last available resource and turned himself invisible. It was a power given to him a long time ago. He had nearly forgot he had it and now it may be too late. The invisible dawh ran silently around the area, thinking the dog-beast Cerberus could not see him, then he realized... he was fighting a ...dog. He could almost hear Cerberus laugh like a human as emerged from the shadow to reveal his true form. A giant dog made of black and fire, smoke and bones. The beast growled right at dawh. It did not have to see him. It smelled him just fine. And in the blink of an eye, its jaws stretched open and snatched up dawh without a trace left behind. The beast sauntered away, burping flames and then disappearing back into the shadows of Tartarus.

Day 3: Persephone

Laughing to himself over and over, Impervious finally composed himself and went to visit the River Styx. There was unexpected company though. A fellow Olympian: Athena. Impervious: Ah. The wise one... in a place like this? To what do I owe the pleasure of your acquaintance? Athena's sword was at Impervious' throat the moment he finished his question. Athena: I've been watching you and frankly, I think you've gone too far. Getting the vote again? Please. I won't allow it. You aren't sending anyone out of Tartarus today. Impervious' eyes raged. He lifted a finger to Athena's blade and sent her backwards with a thud as her back and head hit the ground. She deftly looked back at Impervious, but he remained where he stood. She rose, brushing herself off, trying to regain the dignity she once had. And then sighed when she realized how this confrontation must look. She was being made the fool. Impervious: Very well... I have more urgent matters that need attending anyway. (pointing a finger) ferryman Charon! Come with me. Athena chose to watch the two go, but both her and Impervious knew her powers were limited down here and she really had no choice. Her lack of power made her grind her teeth. --- Persephone felt the evil presence growing and then he appeared. Hades ripped down through the brush Persephone had been hidden in. He grabbed her by the neck of her robe and yanked her out of the concealment. Hades: Ready to behave yourself my dear? Persephone: Yes... my Lord.. Hades: ...mmm... good, then let there be no more talk of this Odysseus and his achievements. Must I show you that weakling again!? Hanging by his wrists! Being eaten alive each day by my ravens, only to heal and be eaten again the next? Persephone: Leave him...! Hades raised an eyebrow, but Persephone just lowered her head. He placed her down on the ground. "Come. We're going back to the castle. Forget about that loser." He pulled her along, but after a few steps she began walking on her own, defeated, praying to Zeus and her mother Demeter to ease the burden, but no ease ever came.

Night 4: A Battle of Wits: Odysseus vs. Hades!

Nestor smiled inward as he watched Diomedes run into the darkness shouting, leaping and destroying every stone structure he passed. Spear blasting through statues of ancient warriors now imprisoned in Tartarus, Diomedes feltas if he could take on the world. --- Face to face they stood, the Demon Hound Cerberus snorting smoke tendrils that wisped up to the ceiling and dissipated and cp looking the monster right in the eyes as if taunting the vile beast. Cerberus' eyes grew white hot flames and fire burst from his claws as he bounded toward cp. cp merely stood her ground, unafraid. Coming to an abrupt halt, Cerberus skidded as he almost collided into the Goddess that had appeared between the two. Athena: Sit. Cerberus raged and howled, but began motioning to back off. Athena, light as a feather, leapt high into the air, near one of Cerberus' snouts and slapped him right across the nose with the blunt side of her sword. Cerberus yelped and began to snort and shake his heads. Athena: Sit! Cerberus let out a wild howl right at Athena. The sound was intense and the walls vibrated. Flaming flecks of spittle flew from the beat's wide jaws, but Athena didn't budge. She brandished her sword and made a move for another one of his snouts, but the Hellhound finally gave in, turned and ran back into the shadows. Athena: Hmph. Not very well trained, is he? --- Sweat poured from GC's face as he fended off the murderous Diomedes. For a man with one arm, he certainly would give anyone a fight for their life in the mental state he was in. As shocking as his screams and taunts were, his moves were just as elegant, just as calculated. GC discerned it was all a mind game his opponent was playing and stepped back a bit from the wild man's lunges. GC: Alright Achaean warrior. You may have the upper hand in this duel, but when fighting to death, expect the unexpected. GC leaped back 4 times until he hit the wall, near a lever. Before Diomedes could stop him, he wrenched the lever down and a gate opened to the side of them. It opened slowly, creaking, the sounds of metal clashing and an almost human-like heavy breathing could be heard from behind the opening gate. Diomedes braced himself to fight two opponents, but then recoiled when seeing the Minotaur step out from the hidden chamber. His head was absolutely intimidating, and he spun his battle axe with such ease, even Diomedes was impressed. GC: As you see I've brought protection. Now, behold the Minotaur's power! The Minotaur ducked under the gate and stomped one foot down into their area. The entire ground near him began to crumble though and he couldn't keep his footing. His battle axe fell down the hidden passage as he clung to the sides for his life, but then he too fell into the chasm, silent, but far. Both GC and Diomedes heard the beast hit the ground with an echoing thud, and then the following scream of pain. Diomedes doubled over laughing. Diomedes (barely able to speak above his laughter): And... I'm... supposed to be... impressed? AHahha! GC scowled and pulled another lever. The ground below Diomedes fell apart and he too fell into a hidden chasm, a different one from the Minotaur. GC peaked his head over the edge to see Diomedes, no longer laughing, but holding his ribs in pain. GC: Have fun climbing back up. I'm afraid you'll be quite lonely when you get back here though. Diomedes: Stay where you are! Coward! GC: Do not confuse wisdom with cowardice. Besides, look at you now! I consider this an act of pity... later, loser. Diomedes: GC!!!!!!! --- Falling down to her knees, Kat could no longer walk hearing the beautiful song of the Siren. She felt a mist encapsulate her entire being, forcing her down, inhibiting her movement. The Siren appeared from the mists, and seemed to float about whispering amidst her song. Siren: Weaker you are becoming. Tomorrow night, I fear... you may even die... Kat fell to sleep and the mist vanished with the Siren. --- Hades felt an enormous tremor throughout Tartarus, a force his powers could not quell. The seas raged, and it was all Poseidon could do to keep them intact, his power used to its maximum and spread over the Earth. The Skies wavered and Zeus puzzled over the many storms forming that he did not create. All three brothers then realized, as if sharing the same mind, that he had done it! Odysseus Was Free! (2001 A Space Odyssey Opening linked in post, just for background music B)) ) Clenching his right fist as hard as he could, the bonds snapped, cracked and popped free from the mountain side. The Raven that had begun tearing at his stomach stopped looked up and then felt its head crush in Odysseus' palm. Still in agony, Prometheus looked over his shoulder at Odysseus and his eyes lit with a renewed sense of purpose that had been lost for a very long time. Odysseus threw the raven down the mountainside and the rest flew away in retreat from the unthinkable. Reaching across himself, Odysseus bashed open the locks and chains on his left arm and then began to climb to the apex of the mountain. From there he saw it. Hades' Castle. Far off in the distance. "I'm coming for you, Hades. And I'm bringing the pain!" Odysseus pelted Prometheus' shackles with stones until the Titan was freed. He clung to the mountain-side unable to lift himself after the years of torment. Odysseus reached down and pulled him up to his feet. RMZ (looking up at the two unwarranted bodies standing atop the mountain): And just what in the name of Hades is going on here!?! Odysseus leaped down to RMZ, who was taken completely for surprise, and bashed his head in with a boulder. RMZ's knees gave in and he collapsed, dead before even hitting the ground. Prometheus: I owe you Achaean. I owe you my freedom. Odysseus (dropping the boulder onto the heap that was once RMZ): Think on that another time. For now, try to escape this vile place. Prometheus: Sage words, but I intend something else entirely. I won't forget you friend. --- Prometheus and Odysseus parted ways. Odysseus was dead set on Hades' Castle, when two ivory hands grabbed both his shoulders from behind. "Wha...?" Hermes: You're coming with me Achaean. Far away from this place. Odysseus: No! I must kill him! I must kill Hades! Hermes: Silence! It is not part of Fate's design for you two to clash so soon. Patience Odysseus. I admit I take no side in this affair, so consider me the hand of fate. Odysseus (carried through the air): Just another meddlesome Olympian if you ask me. Hermes: I didn't ask. Look at the bright side. We'll be flying over the dungeons. Odysseus: And that means what to me? Hermes: There are many eyes in the dungeons, Odysseus... too many... Edit: forgot to add that Theseus attempted an attack on Artificial I, but failed.

Day 4: meh
Sorry for the delay, this will have to be an abridged Day since I'm super-busy right now. Kat has been sent to other side of the Styx and is powerless. I was thinking people were waiting on me, but apparently not. There was no plea. Let the night begin.

Day 4 Addendum: Out of Sight

Kat plead for the hero Perseus to join her plight against the insidious God Hades. She felt his presence as her prayer echoed across her surroundings. Looking up, she could swear she saw the heroic warrior, but he appeared almost translucent and surreal. He spoke softly, so only Kat could possible hear. Only a few words and Perseus' form slowly drifted away and dissolved into the air. Kat: Yes. A horrible fate that is ...to die in Tartarus. I'd offer assistance escaping this awful place, but it's all we could do to have freed our Lord Odysseus. Rest in peace warrior. And if not peace, then in knowing that we mean to avenge Odysseus and kill Hades. Perseus (voice over): I wish I could join you, but alas, fate would not allow it. Good luck to you

Night 5: Showdown! Odysseus Wreaks Havoc in Tartarus!

Overlooking the empty mountainside, Hades clenched his teeth and inhaled viciously. His black cape swung around him like a rippling pool of emptiness as he looked away from that disaster. "Odysseus... that man is quite the thorn in my side. To have escaped that which even a Titan could not... just what sort of man is he? Cunning, for certain. ...Cerberus!" The Hellhound walked into Hades' private chambers, right by Persephone sitting silent in an uncomfortable looking arm-chair, and kneeled right before his master's shrouded visage. "The intruder in my realm who goes by the name 'cp'. I have estimated that much action will revolve around her tonight. And.. that Odysseus must be thinking the same thing. Go forth my pet! His cunning won't save her tonight! Not from your jaws!" Cerberus ran from the room, leaving a trail of smoke and tiny flames in his wake. Hades turned to Persephone and lifted her chin with a finger. "Fear not my love. We will ween them down to nothing but that troublesome Odysseus. And then... then, I'll take over his torture ...personally..." --- Charon rocked back and forth aboard his ferry, his cowl covering his putrid appearance. He just sat motionless, arms resting on his knees, ever-waiting for souls to enter his domain. As was the case of late though, he had an unwelcome visitor. The fleet-foot God Hermes flew over the River Styx and landed on the stern of the ferry near Charon; the vessel did not even seem to move from his feather-like landing. Not bothering with the pesky God, Charon remained silent, gazing down at the water, from deep within his cloak. Hermes: So.... I was wondering who's passage you wanted denied. Just... out of curiosity. Charon: ... Hermes: Hmph. ...Hahahah! Never much for conversation, are you ferryman? Sighing and scratching his forehead, Hermes unveiled a knife, pushed Charon to the deck and stabbed him right through the left shoulder, all so quickly, only a Divine eye could have seen the movements. Without even a sound, Charon just lay on his back, staring right up at the God. His cloak had fallen back, revealing his monstrous form. Charon: ... Hermes: You're a tough one ferryman, I'll give you that, but tell me. How do you intend to row this ferry... without arms? Looking down at his own body, Charon saw that indeed his arms had been taken. Hermes held them, taunting the Monster. Charon snarled and tried to lunge up, but Hermes held him down tight. Charon: Fine Olympian, but it's of little consequence. My Lord Hades shall prevail no matter what you try. You forget his strength. Hermes: And you underestimate your opposition. Now... who... Charon: c... p... Hermes: Heh, well you won't be finding her on this side of the River. And by the time you make it across... no, you two can't possibly meet tonight. I'm done with you then. Hermes flew off in a flash, leaving behind Charon's arms. The Monster rose and reattached his limbs. Returning to his position, Charon slowly pulled his cowl back up and over his head... and waited... as he always did. --- It was true that cp did not have to worry about Charon, but as she walked through the mazes of Tartarus, she would have traded this meeting for almost any other. She came to a fork in the path and stood thinking about which way she should proceed. Then, from the right tunnel she could see fire emerging and growing. Some sort of beast was headed right for her. Then, she looked to the left and snakes began pouring out of that tunnel right toward her. Before she knew it, both Cerberus and Medusa towered over her. Cerberus, breathing fire, snorting and barking wild flames and plumes of smoke. Medusa, screeching and hissing, snakes pouring from her head and snapping their fangs open and closed. Backing off from the two demons, cp stared them down. So far, none of the three made a move, but then a brilliant light encapsulated cp. She looked through and saw Athena had come to her aid. Athena spun her sword and slashed Cerberus' paw, then used her shield to deflect Medusa's deadly stare. The Monsters had no intention of fighting a God at the moment it seemed, as they each backed off and returned down the passages from which they had arrived. --- On the Surface, Kat was again encountered by the Siren. But before the Siren could reach her, Kat clutched her throat. She couldn't breathe! She fell dead right in front of the disappointed Siren, who watched her soul travel down to the Underworld. ...Charon stirred... --- Another battle waged in the distance as Diomedes and PT went at it. The two were evenly matched though and Diomedes began to laugh with exuberance as he slashed at PT again and again only to be deftly blocked or quickly side-stepped. After about ten minutes the two stopped, both a bit winded. Diomedes clapped his arm around PT's shoulders and vowed to protect him for the night. "Anyone who can battle me with such skill is a rarity! I look forward to us clashing again my friend! So in the meantime, I'll make sure nobody else even tries to have a go at you. I want you completely rested the next time we meet ;) Nothing as satisfying as a good battle, eh?" PT :rolleyes: : ...um... yeah... I guess... --- While offering some choice words to Bb, Nestor was interrupted by Hermes descent down to the ground. A determination filled Bb's gaze from Nestor's words though as Hermes landed beside them. The three began making a map of Tartarus in the soil with their fingers. Bb: OK, so the Dungeons are here... and then Prometheus' Mountain should be... Hermes: Well, heh, it's more like this. Bb: Ah yes, that makes sense. I'm lacking your bird's eye view. Hermes: Well, don't worry my friend. You'll get to see the rest of this place in a moment. Are you ready? Theseus (beginning to run): Hold! ...Hold! ...You're mine Brandonb! Bb and Nestor both swiveled their heads in unison at the bulky warrior marching toward them. Bb motioned Hermes and Nestor to back off. "This is my fight." Hermes nodded, folded his arms and flew up into the air, watching the battle unfold. Nestor backed away, becoming one with his surroundings, watching his trusty companion ready himself. Bb: You are not my concern tonight brave Theseus. But I'm aware of your current allegiance. Is there any way I can convince you to back off? Gritting his teeth, Theseus hurled his spear right at Bb's throat. Bb sidestepped the spear, eyes watching the projectile as it almost grazed his neck. Then unsheathing his own sword from behind his shield Bb stealthily blocked Theseus' sword blow which had immediately followed the spear. The two remained locked, swords grinding and sparking. Bb: You're good warrior. ...But, not good enough. Bb purposefully fell, throwing Theseus off balance. He then picked up his shield and as Theseus regained his composure, Bb spun and blasted Theseus right at the side of his helmet with his shield. The blow knocked Theseus out. When he hit the ground, his helmet rolled away a bit, revealing his true face. Hermes descended back to the land. "Well, you certainly live up to your name, but can you surpass those expectations?" Bb: We'll find out sooner or later. Let's go. Hermes grabbed Bb by the arm and the two flew off, leaving Theseus defeated, unconscious and sprawled on the ground. --- Growing more and more aggravated by the second, Impervious prepared to welcome his guest. "Impossible! How is this happening? How is he here? Those Monsters are useless... Well, I'll just take care of this nuisance myself." Odysseus walked up toward the muttering Impervious and stopped about twenty paces from the enraged Olympian. Odysseus looked Impervious up and down. He was monstrously enormous. "Kill a God?" Odysseus gulped, but then wore a mask of utter seriousness. "Ares fell by Human blade, Impervious. Are you not afraid?" With a slight movement of his hand, Impervious lifted Odysseus in the air like a puppet. "And just what should I be fearing? I could snap your neck right now. You forget, I am not Ares... he was a fool and is now imprisoned here, just as you will be again in a moment. I won't give you the satisfaction of complete death ...no. You're going to suffer Odysseus." Odysseus (short of breath): I knew... before we met... that I couldn't beat you ...with my own strength. Beneath his black metallic mask, Hades searched the sky ...nothing. Searched the land ...nothing. "And just what else is there for me to see?" Odysseus (grasping at consciousness): No..thing. ...Nothing at all. Wondering why his almost lifeless victim was smirking, Impervious began to speak. "OK, enough games... I'm going to make certain that..." The ground beneath Impervious began to quake. Even the God Impervious could not stand his ground. "What?!?" A giant hand exploded from beneath the ground. It was larger than all of Impervious. "No..." Now moving like the wind, Impervious moved as fast as he could, finally feeling the danger of the situation. He could no longer concentrate on Odysseus who fell back to the ground and unsheathed his sword. Impervious ran and leaped all across the giant hand and forearm of the Titan Atlas. Atlas' hand kept closing, but always just after Impervious escaped his deadly grasp. Impervious: How are you free? What is going on!?! Atlas (grumbling from under the world itself): A message for you Impervious. ..From Prometheus: ...Die Atlas' hand began picking up speed and his aim was getting more accurate. Impervious began sweating, trying to think of a counter-attack to this unexpected development. "I never should have agreed with Zeus. I never should have imprisoned these Giants. Damn Zeus!" He leaped back and back and... right through Odysseus' waiting sword. The blade pierced Impervious through the chest and the brief pause was enough time for Atlas to pluck his head clean off. Odysseus wrenched his blade from the dead God's body; it was red-hot, sizzled and had nearly melted. Odysseus threw the blade to his side and knelt down, exhausted. Atlas pulled his hand back under the Earth, along with Impervious' head, still barely alive. "Damn you... Zeus..." were Impervious' last words before all traces of Atlas had disappeared. The massive chasms he ruptured began to close and seal, and Atlas once again took firm hold of the Earth. Atlas: Perhaps we shall meet again brave Achaean warrior. I do hope so. Though it would satisfy Impervious' wish, I too hold a grudge against Zeus. If your fate leads you to Mount Olympus, you can call on me... on all the Titans. For now warrior, fare well.

Day 5: GC's True Form

Rocking back and forth, traveling across the River Styx, GC looked up at the menacing stalactites above him. Though powerless, he managed to keep a dangerous look about him. Charon did not seem to care one way or the other, rowing the ferry mechanically. Once across, GC was greeted by Hermes. He hadn't even noticed the stealthy Messenger approach. Hermes: Look at you! I never thought I'd see you this drained of power. GC: Don't get used to it. ...oh, while you're here, I ask that you finally join us and eradicate these vermin. You know they don't belong here. Why are you playing these games with us? Hermes: Games? I would hardly call them games... especially after the loss of Impervious. GC: Yeah, well as I understand it, you were heavily involved in that sickening affair. Now it's time to make things right. Join us and bring balance back to the Underworld. Hermes: I'd also be careful not to call what you all had going balance. And now look at the situation. Titans being freed, Olympians being imprisoned. Well, I don't exactly look fondly on the prospect of the Titans trying to take vengeance. I may join you. ...oh wait... you have already recruited three independents? Never mind then Monster, you have enough characters to take care of matters yourself. GC: Fair enough Olympian. Fair enough

Night 6: Dueling Minds

It was impossible to tell Night from Day in Tartarus. All the Achaeans had was their internal clocks and the longer they stayed down in this horrid place, the easier time's presence slipped from their thoughts. It was the same for the Monsters of Tartarus, but they had been down there so long, time was nearly forgotten, until this recent invasion. Night after night they had fought. The blood sweat and tears absorbing into the tainted soil and stone of the Underworld. Having only recently escaped his capture, Odysseus felt tired as he unsheathed his sword once again. This time he had sought out his victim, Twin Bro, but the aches and pains were beginning to catch up with him. "Did I make the right decisions tonight?" he thought over and over as Twin Bro stared him down, the two walking circles around one another so they never got closer. Finally, just as Odysseus committed himself to the fight, a rush of black vines sprouted from the ground right around Twin Bro's legs. Odysseus ran at him, knowing he may be too late, he swung his sword violently at the air that had just held Twin Bro's waiting form, but now all signs of him and those vines had vanished. Odysseus grunted, pulling his sword back up from the bare ground. He wavered a bit standing back up straight and sighed as he held his back and began to return to his comrades, exhausted and fruitless. --- ST had many plans for the night, but they all were erased from her mind when she stumbled upon Medusa. The snake woman walked slowly toward ST who backed away just as slow. Confident she could fool Medusa, ST was ready to deflect her gaze, but Medusa had adapted to her quick thinking adversaries and used a reflection of her own. She threw a tiny shard of glass to her left and gazed unto it, just as her reflection caught the eyes of ST. ST stood completely petrified. After retrieving the glass, Medusa walked up to her latest work of art, satisfied in its captured beauty. --- Finding herself again facing two opponents, cp stood her ground, but this time she would have to go it alone. Theseus was the first to attack her, but as luck would have it, he again failed to hit his target. Utterly defeated and frustrated in his lack of luck, the warrior left the battlefield. Only a mysterious woman remained, perched on a large boulder. cp squinted at the woman, trying to make out her face through her veil. She carefully approached her and suddenly a divine voice began humming and then singing from beneath the veil. cp was intoxicated and walked over to sit next to the woman. she lazily looked up at the singer's veiled face and with her last bit of willpower, reached up and tore the veil down, revealing the revolting face of the monster known as the Siren. cp felt drained and had the fleeting thought that she might die tomorrow night, just before she fell to sleep amidst the hazy shroud left by the Siren. --- Charon winced as he saw Hermes flying over the River Styx, carrying GC across as well. Charon was getting tired of Hermes' ability to seemingly travel where-ever he pleased, defy all authority Charon had been bestowed and on top of that, the Olympian's pompous attitude... Charon smoldered watching the God and swore he would one day laugh when it came time to bring the famous Messenger across the ferry ...permanently. Hermes dropped GC right into the swinging range of the warrior Diomedes. GC was quicker than Diomedes thought and ducked a surely fatal blow. Diomedes was careless and GC kicked his sword from his hand. It landed far from the two. Thinking that was all Diomedes had, GC began to laugh. Watching from a distance, Odysseus saw the beginning of a similar growth as those black vines he had encountered earlier. "I knew this would happen." Odysseus thought aloud as he raced toward GC, bow and arrow in hand. GC looked off his left shoulder at Odysseus raising a flaming arrow, but not at him. The arrow struck the earth next to GC's foot and singed the growth of Persephone's vines. Odysseus then collapsed from fatigue, being pulled aside by Nestor. GC (looking back to his foe): No matter, I don't need protection to survive an attack from you. Nestor: Fear not Diomedes! You have gained much strength from your battle with Hector and the mighty Trojans! Seek that power and experience! Show this Monster how far you've come! The words rang true to Diomedes, but something was off. He couldn't shake a foreboding feeling he had had before the fight had even got underway. GC: Your one and only attack has failed warrior. Now what will you do? Diomedes: Hmph, you forget that I helped raze Troy to the ground, Monster. Now, ready yourself for my second attack. GC's shock only lasted as long as it took Diomedes to kick up the dagger concealed in his right boot and slash GC's throat. The Monster fell lifeless to the ground. Diomedes knew it was over and walked away from the corpse. "I guess I was worried for nothing..." he muttered walking back to his friends. Seeing their eyes widen, Diomedes looked back at the corpse and the shock set in. It was gone... GC was gone..."

Day 6: Boring
Everyone kept bickering about what would happen to Odysseus if he was Sacrificed, all the while forgetting Calchus had a Secret Ability. GC found himself traveling across the River Styx and powerless for the Night (again).

Night 7: Swaying Momentum

Again under the curse of the Siren's song, cp wandered Tararus in a daze of ecstasy. "It's just ..too beautiful ...full of grace ...divine even. I just can't help myself..." encroaching on the Monster, cp reached for her weapon of choice, but fell face forward. Before she hit ground though, Athena soared down between the two, and propped cp up with a careful shoulder. She was holding both hers ears shut tight, but the Siren never let up. Her voice actually visible, exponentially growing sound waves burst from deep in her throat. Athena riskily let one hand slide down to her sword belt, unsheathed her sword and hold it right at the Siren's throat. With only one hand, Athena grabbed cp and flew off, her other hand still holding one ear. Siren: You cannot best my song Olympian... Athena: No, but I can outrun it ...for now. (to cp) Hang in there! Don't you die on me! cp: Her song.. last night ... was just so beautiful. --- Holding a shaky hand up to Odysseus, PT wanted to scream, but couldn't. Odysseus looked satisfied, but his mind was already on other matters. PT continued to drift from awareness as this odd curse drained the last amounts of his power. PT: Am I dead? Did you kill me with that secret ability, human? Odysseus: No, but I'd be careful what I say from now on if I were you. ...excuse me, I have to deal with something. Don't worry. I'll be back to finish you off. Watching Odysseus run away infuriated PT, but to his utter dismay, he felt as if he couldn't do anything. "What is this? How did it happen? Careful what I say? ...grrrr... these Humans have gotten too powerful. ...I'll show them... Finish me off?!?!... oh yes... I'll show them exactly with who they're dealing..." --- Odysseus halted his run just short of the battleground that two other individuals had been using for the past few minutes. Both Medusa and AI fought gallantly, but Odysseus had interest in only AI's survival. By the looks of the battle at the time he arrived, Medusa would surely win. He looked all over the area for some tool or weapon made from his surroundings. "There...!" Odysseus ran up the hill that Sisyphus stood upon. Sisyphus: Watch out! Careful down there! Dodging the giant boulder as it cascaded back down the hill, Odysseus noticed a large crack in the carved valley. "Is this place falling apart now that Impervious has been slain?" He leaped up to the crack and pounded it with a mighty punch. The crack grew. Odysseus punched with his other hand. The crack grew even larger. Sisyphus' eye lit up and he dropped down next to Odysseus. Within those few seconds, AI fell onto his back from Medusa's power. She happened to have her back to him though, since she had swept him off his feet with her massive tail whip. AI closed his eyes, and when she turned to face her fallen opponent her gaze met only his eyelids. "Is that the best you could come up with? Face reality Olympian. You will die here tonight! Muahahaha!" Medusa cackled as she bent over to forcibly open AI's eyes. Odysseus raised his sword and plunged it into the hillside. That did it. The entire side of the valley collapsed just as the gigantic boulder had reached the apex of the other side and began rolling down back toward them. It rolled up and through the rubble, right for Medusa. Snapping her extended fingers back into a fist, Medusa sneered at the boulder careening toward her. She had no choice but to dodge and dodge she did. But after the dust settled from the boulder's final impact into a nearby wall, she found herself alone. Even Sisyphus was gone. Medusa screamed in outrage. --- Odysseus kept his smile as he descended further into Tartarus, now used to the horrid feeling that there was no escape. Up ahead, lay a path, as if it were put there just for him. "Sometimes, the best way to deal with a trap... is to spring it." Odysseus thought as he carefully walked down the torchlit passage. There was no one in sight, but the path led into a tunnel. Kat watched from the distance as Odysseus cautiously entered the cave to find that it was in fact not a cave at all. It was more of an amphitheater. A giant circle at the center surrounded by circular steps that easily be used for seats. "Just what is this?" he wondered aloud. ???: Your destiny. Odysseus turned sharply at the voice's origin to see Theseus standing on the opposite side of the circle, sword drawn and over his shoulder, shield swung around his back and spear in hand.Thinking they were alone, Odysseus conceded and drew his weapons as well. The two rushed each other ending in a front bind between swords. The swords shook together, grinding metal on metal. Theseus used the opportunity to attempt a shiv into Odysseus' side, but Odysseus held his Falcon guard as he parried the spear away with his dagger. Strangely, Odysseus thought he could hear cheers from the seats, but only a dark fog covered the surroundings. The quickness caused both spear and dagger to fall and with equal speed the two whipped their shields off their backs and collided them together in a masterful display of style. Odysseus' mind was again flustered. He could have sworn he heard a crowd gasp at the collision. The two leaped from each other and returned to guarding positions. Odysseus took some time to survey the area and still... nothing... wait, were those eyes? And those? And those? No. Were the dead watching them fight? No matter. Odysseus forgot the oddity and focused entirely on his opponent. "Watched by the dead or not, I need to focus. This guy has improved." Theseus: You may be the most cunning warrior Odysseus, but you've nobody but me to think about now. And when it comes to a duel, I have the upper hand. You felt it. Not that it matters though. I'm here to kill you and nothing less, so a forfeit will not be necessary. Just die in honor. Odysseus: Overconfident are you? Let's see if I can crack that pedestal. With a wry smirk Odysseus ran at Theseus again. But Theseus knew the dance of the blade too well. Each move Odysseus used, was quickly countered by Theseus. Diving Eagle blocked with Tiger's Paw, Dragon Thrust blocked with Swooping Crane and countered with Falling Serpent. There were now fully audible praiseful and contemptuous shouts from the seats. Yellow and orange eyes lit the center circle in a bizarre and frightening ambiance. Odysseus was tiring; his endurance run dry, and Theseus attempted to plunge Charging Ram right through Odysseus' midsection, finishing his once and for all. The blade struck fatality, but both Theseus and Odysseus stared wide-eyed between them. Kat had run into the blade, saving Odysseus, and she held on to Theseus' sword tight so he could not remove it from her body. The crowd was gone it seemed. The eyes winked out, almost synchronized, but neither warrior noticed their absence. Seeing the disadvantage, Theseus jumped back, keeping watch for any other intruders. He then fled without his sword, thinking of where he could pick up another. "That one LIS dropped should be an excellent blade. Now if I could just find where he fell," Theseus thought as he ran from the coliseum. Odysseus held Kat in his arms as she died. Closing her eyes for her, Odysseus promised: "Your death will not be in vain." --- Feeling the strain of six nights of battle, Diomedes rubbed his shoulder and grunted. Nestor sat near him offering choice words of advice. Behind them, lurking in the shadows, SG could hear the wise old warrior's words as well. Only they had a somewhat different effect on him. While Diomedes began getting more and more psyched from the encouragement, SG found himself glued to the spot, still with power, but completely intoxicated in Nestor's speech. It was breathtaking. He couldn't stifle a small cheer for the protagonist when Nestor neared the end of the tale and both he and Diomedes looked quizzically at the wall next to them. Diomedes, with a renewed vigor, punched right through the wall, grabbed SG by the throat and yanked him through the rest of the wall, crumbling apart a large hole. SG was stunned by the man's power. SG: You? You aren't a God. Why are you so powerful? Diomedes: You heard Nestor's speech. But it was for my ears only. I'd ask you to ready yourself, but no matter what you do you'll be no match, so I'll just make this quick. Eviscerating SG, Diomedes dropped the lifeless corpse to Nestor's approval. Blood spattered across Diomedes' face, but he left it there, as if it were warpaint. He yelled and smashed his sword across his chest. His eyes widened and sharpened. Taking a life was always exhilarating for him. Even with one arm, Diomedes was a force with which to be reckoned. Nestor: That's one less monster to worry about, eh? Right on. Let us walk further into this God-forsaken place. Did I ever tell you about the...? --- AI stood on the banks of the River Styx, arms folded, no longer laughing. Twin Bro was beside him, unconscious. The ferryman stood atop his ferry in the center of the river gazing right back at the frustrated Olympian. "Did you think you could outwit me forever, Messenger? Oh how I want to laugh at you. If only I was still able. Silence is enough though. Actually, it may infuriate you more. Oh, I hope it does. I hope it really does." Charon swayed on the tiny waves of the Styx, under cowl, trying his best to smile. --- Thinking the night was over and that he had time to rest up, PT opened his eyes to see Odysseus' blade only an inch from the bridge of his nose. He didn't move. Odysseus: I've never enjoyed having to kill someone in their sleep, well, razing Troy in the still of night as they slept was pretty great, but aside from that... PT: Oh, what I'm going to do to you... Odysseus: Heheh. You're going to die for me. Plunging his sword down, Odysseus only hit the dirt below. PT evaded such a quick attack?! PT was to his left and so Odysseus swung, but cut only air. Odysseus lowered his sword, acknowledging his opponent's skill. PT laughed only through his breathing, "Consider yourself lucky to be alive, Achaean. Enjoy it while it lasts."

Day 7: Athena's Impatience
GC: You know I'm getting kind of tired of this journey across the River... Charon: Look who you're complaining to... GC awoke with a start. "Ah, that dream again?" In reality Charon stood face to face with Athena. Charon leaned on his oar, "So, I guess nobody will be coming my way today." Athena answered with a cold stare.

Night 8: Diomedes' Power and Persephone's Secret

The hulking Theseus stood over his fallen prey Odysseus. Odysseus tried shimmying himself free, but his opponent had him pinned with his legs and sharply kicked Odysseus' side each chance he got. Theseus' eyes were ablaze with angst, watching Odysseus squirm, hopefully for the last time. Theseus' pride had been shattered too many times by this man, but no more. Theseus: No more! Driving his sword home, Theseus' arms stopped short of their intention, his sword parried and blocked by Odysseus' gauntlets. Theseus leaned down on the hilt. "Even on your back, you are impenetrable. *sigh* very well Odysseus. I'll acknowledge you. Living so long down here makes a man insane, you'll soon find that out the way you're going." Odysseus: I don't intend to prove you right. I have some unfinished business in Tartarus and then I'm leaving as fast as my will shall take me. Theseus (walking away, sheathing his sword): I've heard that one before... by a warrior named Perseus I believe. Ever heard of him? Ah, no matter... fare well warrior, fare well... until we meet again. Odysseus: Why do I get the feeling we will? --- Having fully intended on crossing the River Styx, GC collapsed and held his ears, but he couldn't keep the voice out. It was as if it was inside his head. He could almost put a face to the voice. An old man, oddly enough, but he wore a large robe with a deep hood, shading his face. GC (thrashing on the ground): Get out of my head! Nestor: You have been misunderstanding my abilities monster. You will not be getting any closer tonight. GC (trying in vain to stop the halting voice): Stop it! Let me pass or pay the price! Nestor (concentrating harder and jamming his sword into the earth before him): You shall not proceed! --- Knowing it to be futile, GC gave up his search for Riranor. Riranor felt overconfident as it was anyway, with Athena guarding his back. The two looked up to see Hermes flying high above them. He seemed to have SG2 by the collar, carrying him to Zeus knows where... but then, from a nearby flickering passageway, the torches almost blowing out from the commotion, erupted a screaming Kat2 followed by one of Tartarus' monsters for certain. The beast was near and its sound escalated as it destroyed everything in its path, chasing Kat2 down. With a shockwave, Medusa burst from the passage with a wicked shriek. Her snake-like body whipping and curling faster than a storm over the seas. It was all Kat2 could do to defend herself from the hundreds of snakes that leaped from the monster. Just when Kat2 was about to give in, Athena finally arrived and whisked Kat2 away. She left her next to Riranor and faced Medusa herself. Athena: I've had enough of you. I'll be your opponent tonight. What do you say to a duel? Me and you, to the death. Medusa: *hiss* I don't *whip* think s-s-s-so. *hiss* but this-s-s-s will be the las-s-s-st time *hiss* we ever meet... *hiss* Godess-s-s-s-s-s Athena (as Medusa retreated back into the tunnel): Coward! You're all cowards! Face me fairly, right now! Silence answered her as frustration mounted. At least she could take some solace in knowing she had kept Riranor and Kat2 safe. A bit uneasy though, Athena haltingly slid down a wall to sit down, back against it, and rest herself, ever watchful for the next disturbance. She had learned from her time with Odysseus: "There is always another disturbance. No peace with that man's destiny." --- Twin Bro walked through the depths of Tartarus in a more casual manner than usual. With all the mayhem and the changes in leadership, many of the dangers in this place had either fled or disintegrated. Unfortunately, he was a bit too oblivious, because he did not even notice Odysseus until the Achaean's blade was at his throat. Odysseus: No more indeed. This is good-bye, TB. From the corner of his mouth, TB smirked at Odysseus just as the vines rose from the tainted ground and wrapped Odysseus' arms. Cinching tighter around his wrists, Odysseus was forced to drop his sword and shield. He was defenseless! But he did not let any emotion show on his face. He only looked his would-be killer in the eyes. But TB only retreated back to the shadows. Odysseus stood there, entwined in the leafy black vines, squinting at two shadowy figures. "Persephone?" he wondered. The two conversed, as Odysseus saw a third figure appear a short distance from the first couple. It was ST! Had she come to save him? She stealthily approached the two enemies. Persephone: Oh do stop lurking back there ST. I can sense your presence at twice the distance. ST straightened, a bit flustered. "Well Persephone, I see being down in Tartarus has done... done... wha?" ST looked down and blood dripped from her bottom lip, down her cheek and onto the ground. It spattered off the thick shoots of Cypress that pierced her several times through the torso. Persephone flicked a finger and the Cypress shot back into the ground, leaving only tiny cracks in the surface layer. Blood cascaded from ST as she toppled over, knees, hips, body fell to the floor, eyes wide with shock, frozen open as Persephone and Twin Bro vanished into the darkness. Persephone (voice over): Sorry to do you in like that. Not very fair was it? As if you could fathom all of my abilities... Ahahahahaha! Look what has happened to your friends Odysseus! They came down here to save you and now look at what you created! Death. Death surrounds you Odysseus. Wise General. Great Tactician. Yet you stand on a pile of your companions' corpses. The taunting seemed to come from everywhere at once. It reverberated around the area, sinking deep into Odysseus' soul. The words tormented him because they held too much truth. But Persephone was now long gone. The vines then soon retreated from Odysseus and back into the ground. He ran over to ST, but alas, there was nothing he could do. He only held her, tears falling silently, as he made the vow of a lifetime. --- Nestor sat with Diomedes, once again boosting the warrior to his highest capability. Over his words, they heard a calamity from another region. It sounded bad. Like death. Diomedes got a bad feeling and raced ahead of Nestor. Along the way, he encountered Prof. Templeton walking in the opposite direction. He seemed relaxed and paid no heed to Diomedes' presence. Diomedes raised his spear to PT's face and demanded an explanation of what happened prior to their meeting. PT: I don't owe you any explanations, one-armed warrior. And just what do you intend to do with only one arm? I certainly hope... Almost instantaneously, Diomedes' blade was coated in blood and PT's head hit the ground with a thud and then came to a wobbling still, eyes open and fixated on Diomedes as the Achaean whipped the blood off his blade. The slash of blood hit a skulking IDNE right across the face. He sputtered and took a step back into the shadow. Diomedes: Trying to sneak up on me? IDNE: A one-armed man who can take out PT is not one with who to be trifled. I have no qualms ceasing an advantage in battle. Diomedes: Then you won't mind me ceasing mine. You see, when my mentor Nestor has anything to say about it, neither God, nor Monster can stand in my way. IDNE saw a dangerous glimmer in the Achaean's eye. He backed off, wishing he was on the Surface. Diomedes: And some nights, I get so blood-thristy, I can't help it. I just need more. More of the ecstasy I feel when I take a life. And you... you do not exist. As he thought about the phrase, IDNE realized he was looking at his own feet, sideways, and swaying up and down. He was dead. Diomedes had swung so fast, IDNE did not even see the cut that took his head. This time, Diomedes wiped his blade off for good before he sheathed it. Nestor later caught up to his friend. He saw the silhouette of Diomedes looming in an archway, grasping two heads by their hair and hollering a vicious warcry that's echo could be heard throughout all of Tartarus. All the way from Hades' crumbling Castle to the receding River Styx. Tartarus would be changed forever. ...no matter who won this costly battle.

Day 8: Hermes' Dilemma

rying to ignore the Human's Plea, the Messenger God stood with his back to Kat2 as she waited for the ferry on the shore of the River Styx. Kat2: ...but I will be powerless tonight... and across the River. We need you. Your allegiance would give us all the power we need to beat them! Don't do this alone anymore Olympian. Join us and help eradicate Tartarus as we did Troy before this. Hermes stood motionless, arms folded, scowling as he thought of his fate. Intertwined again with these Achaean warriors. Shaking his head slightly in acceptance, he answered the Human. Hermes: If I receive another Sacrifice from you or another Achaean, I will finally join you. My independence has never been personal Achaean, so do not take it as such. I'm just doing my best to survive down here and leave in one piece. More powerful Gods than I have already fallen in this forsaken place. ...come see me again. Only then.. will I join you. --- Gazing coldly over at the God and Human conversing, SG2 waited for the ferry further down the shore of dust and bone. The River looked somehow odd to him, but a mental image of normalcy escaped his thoughts. He only thought of how best to bide his time. To wait through the Night, powerless, and vulnerable.

Night 9: Nestor's Influence

Nestor: You're working on a splendid victory, m'Lord. Odysseus: Hmph. You should know better than to cast a foul curse on us with a loose tongue. Nestor: Look around you... the evil aura down here has almost completely vanished. There's hardly anything left to worry about. We've almost sealed our victory. All thanks to that cunning wit of yours. Odysseus smiled as he reached down, grabbed the hilt of his sword, and pulled it from Impervious2's fallen body. Imp2's corpse lifted a little from the tug, but then slid back down from the blade as Odysseus pulled it completely out from the fatal gash. Sending the blood flying from his blade and across a rock wall, Odysseus sliced through the misty air and skillfully slid the sword back into its sheathe. Odysseus (with a wry look): I beg pardon, but don't deny your part in this. You've been nothing but a help my old friend. I feel as if I wouldn't have been able to best Imp2 tonight if not for your sage advice on his weak-spots. ...speaking of advice, what do you think GC is up to tonight? I know he's been on your mind as of late. Nestor (beaming): Much obliged for the kind words... as for GC, he won't be able to find us tonight. I've made sure of that. It's difficult to explain, just take my word for it... he seemed to want to stay there anyway... Odysseus: ...another night then. Another night and we'll finish him off for good. Nestor: Indeed we shall. And then... m'Lord? What is it? Odysseus: I was just thinking if that trap would be enough to fool Theseus. Nestor: It was more than enough Odysseus. That one's seemed to have lost a bit of his mind being down here so long. Luck seems to have all but left him as well. Tonight, he's of no consequence. A.I. will stay safe as you predicted. ...come along now. Let's leave this one to rot. Nestor held out a hand and gestured toward an, as of yet, untrod passageway inside Tartarus. The two veteran warriors calmly walked into it, leaving Imp2's body to the small scavengers emerging from the tiny crevices and shaded inlets in the hellish terrain of Tartarus. Those not actively hindering the intruders were taking advantage and delight in the spoils of the Achaean's successful insurrection. The most horrid and powerful monsters, once feared by all others, were now slain or weakened and those that did not hold much weight now sought to venture farther then they ever thought possible. Rapidly, Tartarus was changing, evolving, but fate had yet to reveal its finished form.

Finale: A God is Born

With the rising Sun at his back, warming his soul from his long stay in Tartarus, Odysseus watched as the last remnants of Hades' minions crept out of Tartarus onto the Surface. GC: We wish to call a truce Odysseus. Your skill and power rivals that of even Zeus. It destroyed my Master and... The words began to trail off as life left GC. Odysseus had chopped off the final head of the Dog-Beast Cerberus quicker than he had ever moved before. Cerberus' body began to ignite all over and he melted into a heinous puddle of soulless evil. SG2, seeing that their rival had no interest in a peaceful end, launched himself from the shadows at Odysseus, only to be struck down from behind by the one-armed warrior, Diomedes. Split down the center, Medusa, fell to each side. Her snakes all tried to flee the carnage, but died, turning to ash as the last breath exhaled from her lips. With honor and dignity, twin bro walked up to the Surface. Carefully looking over at the dispersing ash that once was Medusa and the black sizzling ooze that had been Cerberus, he tightened his gauntlets, and pointed his sword at Odysseus. Theseus: What do you say? One last duel Odysseus? Odysseus: I wish there was another way my friend, but I can see the evil of that place has consumed your human-heart. Your soul now belongs there and I shall send it myself. A clash of blades, two swings and the opponents parted. Odysseus stood firm, facing away from Theseus who also held his position. Then blood exploded from Theseus' mid-section and he dropped his sword, clanging to a standstill on the rocky soil. Theseus: I'm glad... it was you. As Theseus collapsed in a pool of blood, Nestor and Diomedes let out the breath they had been holding as they watched the brief duel transpire. Odysseus ripped a piece of Theseus' clothing off and wiped his blade thoroughly clean this time before sheathing it. It was over. He was free. And Hades... was dead. Calmness did not find him though. Something was still bothering him. Odysseus: But now what of Tartarus? The dead still need to rest in peace. Cutting short his words, Demeter rose from the ground as if she was made of soil and leaf, and raised a finger to silence him. The three veterans stared in wonder at the beautiful Goddess of the Earth. Demeter: I know that you had no choice but to kill my daughter. I am not here for vengeance. Rather, I am here to make Tartarus my own. As you said, the dead need to rest and souls need a final destination. Henceforth, I shall take over control of the underworld and let it be known that it will be peaceful, lush and joyous from now and forever on. The cruel practices of Hades are over and soon forgotten. Odysseus: But My Lady Demeter. What of the Surface? Is it not too much a burden on you to tend to both. Demeter: Have you not felt it? Odysseus: ... Demeter: Grab hold of your companion's shoulder and imagine your desire as if it were truth. Diomedes looked puzzlingly at Odysseus as he grabbed his shoulder where his arm had once been attached. Closing his eyes, Odysseus imagined his friend whole again. Shuddering from the odd feeling, Diomedes' eyes widened in shock. When Odysseus let go and opened his eyes, Diomedes was indeed again whole. All three surviving Achaeans were elated despite their ignorance of how it happened. Odysseus threw his sword at Diomedes who grabbed it and along with own, spun them both wildly as if he never lost any time practicing his dual-sword forms. Odysseus: I...I'm afraid I don't understand. Demeter (fading away): You are a God now Odysseus. Your power is so great, it may even surpass my Generation. It is a power you must come to understand and hone on your own volition and with your own wit. I wish you well. Excuse me now, for I have quite a job ahead of me cleaning this place up. ...oh, and Odysseus. Expect to hear from Kronos. He leads the Titans to freedom from their ever long stay in this prison. Odysseus: ...Kro...Kronos? Wait! Demeter! Please don't... don't... ugh. Is my trial not over yet? ???: Of course not. Spinning to face the new voice, all three Achaeans again stood slack-jawed as Hera stared them all down with eyes colder than ice and harder than stone. Her arms were folded and she wore a scowl. "You've ruined my plans Odysseus. I intended on using both you and Hades as pieces to play against Zeus. Well, what's done is done, but I must insist that you three join my effort and finally pull this world from Zeus' clutches." Nestor: Pardon my accusation, but have you gone mad? A rebellion against Zeus? And why us? I, for one, do not want anything to do with that. Hera: You will join me or die... wha? What is this? Hera looked down at the hand that had plunged into her back and jutted out from her chest. Slowly and painfully turning her head, she saw that Odysseus had somehow managed to escape her watchful gaze and take her from behind. Her bodily form disintegrated quickly, silently and Demeter welcomed her first guest. Odysseus: How did I? and what are you two doing? Nestor (kneeling): We are kneeling before a God, Odysseus. The God of the next Generation. The Holy Usher. Diomedes (kneeling): As I would follow you to the pits of Tartarus, I will follow you to the highest reaches of the Heavens. Odysseus: Please rise my friends. I'd say that our duty is done. I now have the power to protect you and all those I hold dear. Let us return home to our families, our shores, our land, and finally rest. --- Zeus: Hades is dead. Persephone is dead. Apollo, Athena, and Ares are all dead as well. And you did nothing to help any of them? Now, the Titans are free. Surely they will want Olympus back. ... (spinning to face his guest) Well!?! What have you to say for yourself?! Hermes: I survived Father. Gritting his teeth, Zeus hazarded a glance at his son's disrespectful display. He pointed a finger at Hermes, causing the Messenger to flinch to Zeus' satisfaction. He then lowered his finger to point at Hermes' left foot. A bolt of lightning shot from Zeus and exploded one of the Fleet-footed God's wings. Hermes doubled over in pain. Still percolating with rage over the current events, Zeus lashed out at Hermes. Zeus: You are forever forbidden to aid anyone's will but my own! And now you should be slowed down enough so that I can keep you in check. Go find me Hephaestus! ...and Hera! ...Where has that troublesome woman gone now? --- It seemed as if it were a dream. The entire Earth was still, but Odysseus could still move. As could one other. Kronos walked over to Odysseus, towering over the former-Human. "You have grown strong Human. Now even cast as one of the Gods. Always remember your place though. You cannot match Zeus' power as you are. And we Titans cannot ascend back to Tartarus on our own. Therefore, I bestow upon you the power to Summon us in your coming battle." Odysseus' shock was pasted across his face. Power surged through him as he came to understand his capabilities. Odysseus: This has all been very flattering, but neither I nor my friends have any intention of this battle with Zeus I keep hearing about. Kronos (returning Time to the world): Even if you have no home to which you may return? Diomedes: Wait... What? Kronos: My son scorched Achaea from the Earth upon hearing the News of your exaltation. He has no intention of letting you live in peace. He wants vengeance and I want you to deliver. Deliver him death and a place of his own in Tartarus. Odysseus: Surely, I've fallen from his graces, but... my home? MY HOME!?!?! --- Diomedes strapped his swords to his back in a giant X. Nestor cleared his throat. Odysseus mentally prepared for the battle of wits that would inevitably come. He should have known this would happen. Fate never let him be at peace. But it had never gone this far either. His wife... he swallowed deeply as he swung his shield around onto his back. Nestor: I doubt Hermes will help us anymore. You can't fly now, can you my Lord? Odysseus: Ha! I suppose trying wouldn't hurt, but no, I'm certain. My dominion seems to be the Earth. Again we must venture into the enemy's territory. I've enlisted the help of someone I once met in Tartarus though. He'll be here shortly. Diomedes and Nestor stood in awe as Icarus landed betwixt them, giant wings folding closed on his back, stirring a massive breeze. Icarus looked at the three of them. "I'm only going to risk taking you one at a time. I hope that is satisfactory." Odysseus, Nestor and Diomedes (elated): Aye! --- Breastplate strapped on, gauntlets tight, helmet dawned, Zeus accepted the newly forged Shield and Sword from his son, Hephaestus. "Outrageous that I must bother with a human in such a way. He may have taken the Surface and the Underworld. He may have defeated Hera and Hades, but he can never take the Sky from me. I'll rip his newfound immortality right out of him and then I'll devour his soul." A current of electricity ran up and down the blade of Zeus. He lifted the massive sword above his heart and rained down upon the Earth a torrent of storms, thunder booming, lightning crackling. "The only era he will Usher in, is the Era where I take full control of all that there is. I can no longer let other Gods maintain their dominions. Not just the Sky, but the Seas, the Underworld, and the Earth will all be mine!" --- Rain beat down hard on Odysseus as Icarus flew him to farthest reaches of the Sky, dodging lightning blasts from all sides. There. They were almost there. Mount Olympus. The place where the Mightiest of the Gods waited for him. The place where his life of war would come to an end, one way or the other. The brilliant light of the Heavens almost blinded him, but Odysseus' eyes saw the unreal. He saw himself sitting at the Apex of Olympus. Zeus' slain body and the world at peace. A dream or the future? Odysseus could not tell them apart.

End of Game Roster

1. SomeGuy - Siren - Killed N7
2. Impervious - Hades - Killed N5
3. LIS - Apollo - Killed N2
4. GC - Cerberus - Killed at end
5. Prof. T - Persephone - Killed N8 (recruited by Hades)
6. dawh - Perseus - Killed N3 (not recruited)
7. Kat - Calchus - Killed N7
8. Bb - Odysseus
9. RMZ - Minotaur - Killed N4
10. ST - Athena - Killed N8
11. Artificial I - Hermes (recruited by Odysseus)
12. Riranor - Nestor
13. Impervious2 - Argus - Killed N9
14. SG2 - Medusa - Killed at end
15. twin bro - Theseus - Lynched D9 (recruited by Hades)
16. IDNE - Charon - Killed N8 (recruited by Hades)
17. Kat2 - Diomedes