The Fall of Gods: Book I: Chapter II: Act III

[Laughing Peninsula]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:04 PM GMT

"Louis Evans," commander Fedorov said. He recognized Louis. One of the richest men in the world, perhaps even the richest. And yet he was unlike most other rich men: Louis had poured fortunes into the rejuvenation of New Germany, mostly the eastern half, after the defeat of Londim. His investments had greatly boosted the European economy which, even after Rome's sudden invasion of Iberia, remained strong as a result. His investments were considered too risky back then to most investors: nobody believed that any amount of spending would revive the destroyed industrial heart of what was once the centre of one of the greatest empires of mankind. Whether Louis felt like gambling when he made those investments or whether he actually cared about the fate of Germany and its people remains knowledge privileged to only few people.

Sebastian was not surprised to find Louis answering his call. Rome's intelligence services already knew that Louis and the Red Hand had connections: thus far, nearly every single one of the Red Hand's activities against companies and their executives had benefited Louis in some way. The ones which did not were actions against Louis's own companies, which were most certainly attempts to avoid suspicion. But of course, intelligence services the likes of the inquisition were not tricked that easily. Louis and the Red Hand were working together, this was a fact.

"My name is Sebastian Fedorov, commander of what Rome has dubbed the 'rogue inquisitors'. I had liked to speak to you and the Red Hand leadership separately, but this will do just fine. Will said leadership be joining us soon, or are you speaking for them?" Sebastian said.

Berlin, New Germany
Louis' Office, Red Hand HQ
5:06 PM GMT, October 26th

Louis gave a mild chuckle, he knew that the Romans had to of know about The Red Hand, the incident in Frankfurt proved that much, but it was clear that even the highest ups weren't aware of much of its workings. Louis decided that he should play it safe, still thinking it could be a trap, and answered.

'Yes, I guess you can say I speak for the Red Hand, so I say again, how may we be of assistance Fedorov?'

[Agadar]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:07 PM GMT

Sebastian squinted curiously when Louis chuckled. There was something Louis was not telling him; something which Louis apparantly found amusing. Sebastian quickly analyzed the conversation, creating several hypotheses in his head. One of these hypotheses was that Louis was the true leader of the Red Hand, which was supported by Louis's chuckle at Sebastian's question about the leadership of the Red Hand and his suspicious answer: 'I guess you can say I speak for the Red Hand'. Sebastian quickly disregarded this hypotheses, however. Louis did not fit the profile attributed to the mysterious upper echelons of the Red Hand. Louis was a business man, reserved and calm. The leaders of the Red Hand were assumed to be religious and passionate, which would be the exact opposite of Louis. Yet, Louis could also be merely putting up an act. If he was the leader of the Red Hand, then which persona was his real personality? That of the business man, or that of the Red Hand leader? Or was the inquisition's profile attributed to the Red Hand leadership incorrect, and was Louis just himself when ordering the Red Hand around? All of these contemplations were however only relevant if Louis was truly the leader of the Red Hand, something which was unproven thus far. Sebastian kept the hypothesis in the back of his head, along with the several others. In the end, generating the hypotheses took Sebastian mere seconds: as is to be expected from the former leader of the inquisition's Section 1.

Sebastian leaned forward and folded his hands together. "Fair enough. Mister Evans. As you already know, Rome has got to be taken down. Its current leadership has brought death and destruction to every corner of the world. We are therefore organizing a meeting between world leaders in order to form a global effort. Rome can be taken down, but only if we stand united. If you so desire, you and the Red Hand may attend this meeting to represent the German people. It is no secret that the 'legitimate' German government is on Rome's payroll, nor is it a secret that you and the Red Hand are the two most popular things in Germany right now."

[Laughing Peninsula]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:07 PM GMT

Sebastian squinted curiously when Louis chuckled. There was something Louis was not telling him; something which Louis apparantly found amusing. Sebastian quickly analyzed the conversation, creating several hypotheses in his head. One of these hypotheses was that Louis was the true leader of the Red Hand, which was supported by Louis's chuckle at Sebastian's question about the leadership of the Red Hand and his suspicious answer: 'I guess you can say I speak for the Red Hand'. Sebastian quickly disregarded this hypotheses, however. Louis did not fit the profile attributed to the mysterious upper echelons of the Red Hand. Louis was a business man, reserved and calm. The leaders of the Red Hand were assumed to be religious and passionate, which would be the exact opposite of Louis. Yet, Louis could also be merely putting up an act. If he was the leader of the Red Hand, then which persona was his real personality? That of the business man, or that of the Red Hand leader? Or was the inquisition's profile attributed to the Red Hand leadership incorrect, and was Louis just himself when ordering the Red Hand around? All of these contemplations were however only relevant if Louis was truly the leader of the Red Hand, something which was unproven thus far. Sebastian kept the hypothesis in the back of his head, along with the several others. In the end, generating the hypotheses took Sebastian mere seconds: as is to be expected from the former leader of the inquisition's Section 1.

Sebastian leaned forward and folded his hands together. "Fair enough. Mister Evans. As you already know, Rome has got to be taken down. Its current leadership has brought death and destruction to every corner of the world. We are therefore organizing a meeting between world leaders in order to form a global effort. Rome can be taken down, but only if we stand united. If you so desire, you and the Red Hand may attend this meeting to represent the German people. It is no secret that the 'legitimate' German government is on Rome's payroll, nor is it a secret that you and the Red Hand are the two most popular things in Germany right now."

Berlin, New Germany
Red Hand HQ, Louis' Office
October 26th, 5:07 pm

Louis paused for but a moment, taking in what had just been offered to him, he could only answer this question once, and his choice would alter his plans, plans he had been building for over the last year. If he said yes, not only would it be obvious that he was not just a figure head of the Red Hand, probably relieving his status on a world scale if these people get involved in the clockwork. But, Louis also realized that this will make may things easier, with them, the German Government will finally crumble, and at last, after so long, he would have the power he sot, the power of an entire nation guarded by him, protected from its self and from dangers, it could all be his if he played his cards right. Then the word flashed through his mind, Alliance, Partnership... there was no way the USNA would say no to this offering, he could finally smooth over their relations, which was egg shells at best.

'I wound consider it an honor to represent the people of New Germany in this United Effort, the menace of Roma have enacted horrors and atrocities that have stained the minds of all of New Germany for years, the Slaughter of Paris and Battles for London being the most damming as late, and have lead to the most damaging consequences, but from them, we merely grow stronger, consider it done. Now, if you'll excuse me' Louis motions to his desk, foot tall stacks of paper currently lining his desk 'I have many things to attend to, I thank you for your call, and will relay your message of alliance'

[Agadar]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:08 PM GMT

Sebastian nodded approvingly. "Thank you for your support," he said. The rogue commander seperated his hands. "The conference will take place in the United States of North America Capitol on the 25th of November. You will be informed of the exact time and details before then. If you have any questions beforehand, then you can contact me on this channel. We will see you then." The connection was broken. Sebastian contemplated the conversation. Louis Evans's words and body language had made Sebastian suspect that Louis could very well be the leader or one of the leaders of the Red Hand. At the very least Evans was a member, most likely a highly ranked one. It was a theory Sebastian would like to be true. If Louis and the Red Hand were seperate, then there was a possibility of a power struggle between the two after or even during the fight against Rome. This was something Sebastian obviously would like to avoid. But if Louis was part of the Red Hand, then there would never be such a power struggle. The German support for Bismarck's cause would then be undivided and untroubled.

Sebastian turned his head and looked at Annette. "Call the next one," he said. Annette nodded and looked down on the e-reader she was holding in her hands. "Next up are the Caribbean," she said, after which she turned around and nodded to one of her lieutenants, who initiated the call. Sebastian turned his head to face the screen in front of him again.

[Apostledom of chaos]

Sebastian turned his head and looked at Annette. "Call the next one," he said. Annette nodded and looked down on the e-reader she was holding in her hands. "Next up are the Caribbean," she said, after which she turned around and nodded to one of her lieutenants, who initiated the call. Sebastian turned his head to face the screen in front of him again.

Caribbean
October 26th, 2043
5:10 PM GMT

“Come on J, play one more hand!” Jeremiah looked at his friend, one of his friends, hell, they were all his 'friends'. Hangers on, brown nosers, and ass kissers, but he loved them all. Of course that doesn't mean he never got tired of listening to them. But thankfully, the tablet he kept on him for the government to rout calls to was buzzing and ringing, signaling that he had a high priority call coming through, so he had a solid excuse to get away. “Sorry boys, I've got to take this call, maybe Fred here will play a couple hands with you.” He gestured towards his friend, companion and body guard, and left out the back door of the bar he was in, tapping the screen as he walked. “This is Jeremiah Evens, Benefactor of the New Caribbean Coalition, who am I speaking to?”

[Agadar]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:10 PM GMT

Jeremiah's face appeared on the screen in front of Sebastian. "Jeremiah Evans," the rogue commander said, greeting him. "You may recognize me from the news. I am Sebastian Fedorov, former commander in the Holy Inquisition, and currently the leader of the Roman resistance movement." Sebastian quickly glanced down at the e-reader which was laying in front of him, showing Jeremiah's profile. Jeremiah found himself in a similar position to his brother, Louis. Both were loved by the people of their respective nations, and both held great power. The only real difference was that the politicians of the New Caribbean Coalition loved Jeremiah as much as the Caribbean population did, while the politicians of New Germany were on Rome's payroll and greatly opposed Louis. The political power and by extension the military power in the Caribbean was centered around Jeremiah. His allegiance would provide the rogue inquisitors with additional pressure against the South American Union, Rome's only relevant ally.

Sebastian looked up. He leaned forward and squinted slightly. "The New Caribbean Coalition has managed to stay out of this world war for quite some time now. The South American Union has thus far been focussing its efforts on the USNA, and Rome has kept its conquests within Africa and Eurasia. However, the Caribbean peace will not last." Sebastian leaned back. "South America may have proven itself to be incompetent, but Rome is its complete opposite. The African alliances crumbled all too easily under the heel of the Roman war machine, and the Russian provinces of the Japanese Empire are falling one after another as we speak." The rogue commander paused briefly.

"Rome will not stop there. Once they have Russia and the Middle East, they will aim for the rest of Asia. From Japan, they will traverse the Pacific Ocean and invade the western coast of the USNA, while simultaneously traversing the Atlantic Ocean and invading the eastern coast. The USNA will not stand a chance, and once they have fallen, the Caribbean will be one of the last free nations of the world. But that position does not hold any honor or hope, because let's face it: the Caribbean cannot hold Rome at bay. You cannot repel firepower of that magnitude." Sebastian folded his hands.

"But there is a chance for you and the New Caribbean Coalition to survive this war. I am inviting you to an international meeting between world leaders. Together we can find the solution to our Roman problem. You are not alone, mister Evans. You are but one of the dozens of other world leaders I have already contacted, and will contact. Most of the ones I have already contacted accepted the invitation without hesitation, amongst which are the president of the USNA, and the emperor of Japan." Sebastian paused briefly, giving Jeremiah some time to contemplate.

"Can we count on your presence during the meeting, mister Evans?"

[Apostledom of chaos]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:10 PM GMT

"Can we count on your presence during the meeting, mister Evans?"

Caribbean
October 26th, 2043
5:11 PM GMT

"Please, call me Jeremiah or Mister J," his face twisted into a grimace, "Mister Evans is my brother." Jeremiah sighed, he didn't want to get involved, not when his sources told him that his brother was already chest deep in it and getting deeper fast. Not to mention his other brother wanting him to help him shut him down before he ruined everything, just like he used to. His face firmed into a look of determination and resignation, well he new he'd have to get involved at some point, and it had might as well be now, "Back to business, if I come will my people be given protection, and will my country be given military aid?" He paused, "You see, the NCC has almost no military to speak of, and what we do have is inadequately equipped. And I can't commit my people to a course in even the slightest of fashions without some sort of assurance that they will be safe if things head south, I'm thinking a semi-permanent military base on one of our islands, and aid in equipping what defense force we do have." He looked at the renegade inquisitor, half hoping, half fearing that he would say yes to his suggestions, but knowing that even if he didn't, it was to late, for himself at least, to not begin to wade back into the affairs of the world at large.

[Agadar]

Dublin
October 26th, 2043
5:13 PM GMT

Sebastian folded his hands. "Mister...J..." he began somewhat awkwardly. Being a professional and reserved inquisitorial commander and a surprisingly effective-yet-still-rather-reserved diplomat, he was not used to using such 'loose' naming conventions. "I cannot make such decisions at this time, nor is it appropriate. Attending the conference will not force you into a co-operation with us. If you oppose the proposals presented to you at the conference, then there is nothing stopping you from declining and leaving without repercussions."


Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
4:24 PM GMT

The skies above Washington were awfully peaceful compared to the rest of the world. Though the South American Union had been trying to break the USNA's southern borders, they had been completely incompetent at doing so. The government of the USNA probably did not even recognize South America's actions as acts of war: they were a nuisance at best. Calling them acts of terrorism would in fact be slightly more appropriate. Exactly why the incompetent Union continued sacrificing their troops by throwing them at the USNA was quite a mystery. It was possible that Dacarus Bartolt was somehow forcing the Union leaders to do so, or perhaps he had used his well-known charisma to convince them that great power awaited them if they listened to him. Greed was one of man's greatest weaknesses, and Bartolt was known for exploiting exactly such weaknesses. Curiously enough however, most of Bartolt's top servants weren't motivated by greed. They were motivated by loyalty to Bartolt and his cause. Still, it begged the question why people like Ansed Booth and Harold Montego, or rather, the Will of Iscariot, were in league with Bartolt. Ansed had been one of the heroes who had fought Omega and his minions, and the Will of Iscariot was not one to co-operate with someone like Bartolt, who severely restricted its actions. Perhaps Bartolt had promised Iscariot plenty of powerful superhumans to fight against in exchange for its help. It was certainly a possibility. But perhaps Iscariot was actually dedicated to Bartolt's cause. There was even the possibility that Iscariot wasn't working with Bartolt, but the other way around. Either way, the heroes could only speculate. Iscariot remained a mystery, even to the other Apostle's Wills and people like Bismarck and the Keeper, whose knowledge on the Apostle's Wills was extensive.

An inquisitorial aircraft bearing the seal of Bardarus Bismarck landed in the garden in front of the White House. It was a peculiar sight, seeing an aircraft belonging to a state which was believed to have attacked New York mere hours ago land so casually near the house of the president of the United States. But the men and women inside of the aircraft were no Roman inquisitors. They were the rogues, the renegades, lead by former Section 1 commander Sebastian Fedorov. He had made an appointment with the president to talk about a possible alliance, and more. The Roman rebels wanted to dispose of the current Roman government as much as the USNA. They could prove to be valuable allies to one another.

When the aircraft had landed and the hatch opened, several inquisitors stepped out one after another, carefully observing their surroundings. Almost a dozen inquisitors had left the aircraft when Sebastian Fedorov finally came out. Were all of those inquisitors there for his protection? It was unlikely. Anyone who knew Sebastian even remotely knew that the inquisitorial commander needed no protection of his own. If his own skills could not protect him, then nothing could. But then for who were all the bodyguards? After Sebastian departed the aircraft, the hatch closed behind him. He was the only VIP, leaving the question as to who the bodyguards were for unanswered. Sebastian stared at the American welcoming committee and walked towards them. It was a peculiar sight: sitting on the shoulder of the rogue commander was a great white owl, with a stern, almost human look on its face.

[Jedi8246]

The Pentagon, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
3:44 PM (2:44 PM GMT)
Garrent sighed.

"I see. Well find Dugal and determine what his plans are then. I will be attending this conference. I can't run into him there. He could recognize my voice, which would be hazardous for us. Report back in when you have details."

---

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:24 PM (4:24 PM GMT)
The USNA was expecting the arrival of these Rogue Inquisitors. Circumstances had changed quickly and the USNA was adapting with them. Had the call been made even two days previously, the USNA would likely had denied the request for a conference concerning Rome. The American government was proud of it's non-interventionism. Despite raids by South America, the USNA had not bothered invading them. Keeping the borders strong was easy against such a weaker nation.

With the Roman invasion the previous day, the USNA had moved quickly. The USNA had already found an ally in Japan and was now preparing to mobilize it's army. It was earlier that morning that the rogues had called requesting a meeting with USNA leadership. President Johnson was interested to say in the least. And thus the meeting time had been set.

President Johnson walked across the lawn to greet his guests. He was accompanied by Secretary of Defense David Payne, some Secret Service agents, and Secretary of State Camela Fall. President Johnson extended his hand to Sebastian as press took photos of the historic meeting.

"Greetings Sebastian Fedorov. I am Gary Johnson, President of the United States of North America. This is Secretary of Defense David Payne. And you've already spoken to Ms Fell. Let us go to a more private room."

The President led the entire entourage into the White House. No attempts were made to ask the Inquisitors for their weapons. Apparently there was trust of the Romans. Or in the Secret Service. Both were valid suggestions. They arrived at a meeting room that was empty save for an oak table surrounded by chairs and the seal of the President on the Wall. When everyone had seated, President Johnson opened dialogue.

"I am not one to beat around the bush, so I'll get straight to the point. What's your purpose in coming here? I know you want to fall Rome and everything, but why have you people specifically rebelled? And what do you want from us?"

His Texas drawl was accentuated now.

[Agadar]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:24 PM (4:24 PM GMT)

Sebastian nodded acknowledgingly as he shook hands with the American president and his secretaries. Despite the presence of the press, Sebastian paid no attention to them and did not put up a facade of friendliness. His face remained stoic. As the president led the entire entourage into the White House, Sebastian couldn't help but notice that his inquisitors were not being searched for weapons, which they most definately were carrying with them. Not that they would use them, as the rogue inquisitors had not come to start a war: but it was peculiar nonetheless. Were the Americans so eager to trust the Roman rebels that they would not even bother searching them? Or were they so confident in their Secret Service that they would allow former special operatives of an enemy state to walk around armed? The latter reason was even more naive than the former. The Holy Inquisition was globally recognized as one of the agencies with the most well-trained, well-equipped elite superagents, right besides the likes of SPECTRE. Allowing almost a dozen inquisitors of who you weren't sure whether you could trust them walk around armed to the teeth was incredibly ignorant, no matter how you looked at it. Sebastian was walking besides the president, two silver handguns and half a dozen bayonets hidden within his long white overcoat. If he desired it so, he could assassinate the president in an instant. Were the Americans truly this dense? Or were they perhaps playing a psychological game? Were they trying to make the inquisitors feel at ease by giving them so much power over the situation? Or were they trying to intimidate them by showing them that they did not fear them? Both reasons were still naive in Sebastian's mind, not to mention utterly useless to the likes of these Roman superagents.

Almost as soon as Sebastian took a seat opposite of the American president, the latter initiated the conversation. The rogue commander listened carefully. "Our purpose here is to convince you to ally yourselves with us," Sebastian replied. He leaned forward and folded his hands. "What we want from you is to host an international conference where we can, together with the nations of the world, formulate a plan to take down Rome, or rather, state secretary Dacarus Bartolt, the sole drive behind this entire abomination of a war." Sebastian glanced at the white owl on his shoulder, which hopped off and landed on the table, staring at the American president. "And the reason as to why we rebelled..." the renegade commander continued, "...is him." The room was silent for a brief moment. Then, an unnatural, booming voice originating from the white owl spoke: "President Johnson, forgive me for the late introduction. Though my body has been stolen from me, I am still the person I once was: I am Bardarus Bismarck, pope of the catholic church and head of the Roman Federation, now dubbed the 'Roman Empire' by state secretary Dacarus Bartolt and the thief who now inhabits my body."

[Jedi8246]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:24 PM (4:24 PM GMT)
The Americans did nothing to reveal their emotions at the revealing of Bismarck. Though Camela Fell had a look of wonder in her eyes. The Americans consulted breifly among themselves, before President Johnson answered.

"This is indeed an interesting development. If events are true as you say, then we extend our grievances to your position. However that does not change the facts of the matter. Despite the leadership, Rome has launched an attack on our nation. Mr Payne contacted this Mr Bartolt yesterday as the attack was occurring."

"Yes. He was unreasonable. Claiming that we opposed your Christian Crusade. And while you may claim that Bartolt is an usurper, all of you still share in the Catholic faith. You can understand our concerns that you are not so different from the Roman regime. It's in itself a surprise to us that the true Bismarck is not who we thought he was." David Payne allowed his words to hang for a moment. "However, our allies the British have told us of your help against the Roman invasion on their land. You seem to be allies to a one Dugal Cain. Our intelligence agencies have picked all sorts of interesting information about him. Such as him being a former assassin for the fallen Londim Empire. And the fact that no record of him exists before that."

"What Secretary Payne is getting at is that we are willing to help you rogues out. We share a common enemy and would be willing to host this meeting of yours. However, we would like certain information. We are not prepared to trust this Mr Cain who has such a shady past. We want everything you know about him that is relevance to the security of this nation. And we want information detailing how long exactly that Rome had belonged to Bartolt. As well as details on all of Rome's chains of command. This would information given before the meeting obviously." continued President Johnson

[Agadar]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:28 PM (4:24 PM GMT)

Bismarck and Sebastian briefly glanced at one another. The Americans seemed to be ignorant about the entire ordeal with Omega. Though the official story was fairly classified, it was globally known that a gigantic monster had been roaming the planet and ravaging entire cities for a brief period twenty years ago, after which it had suddenly vanished. It was also strange that the Americans were completely ignorant about Dugal Cain as well.

Sebastian stared at Bismarck, awaiting permission to share data they had about Omega and Dugal to the American president. Bismarck contemplated for a brief moment, then nodded approvingly. Sebastian took an e-reader out of his inner breast pocket and laid one hand on the communicator in his right ear. "Send me all confidential-level files on the Omega incident, Dugal Cain, and the Roman chain of command," he said. It took but a second for the encrypted information to appear on his e-reader. Sebastian laid the e-reader on the table and shoved it towards the American president. "I trust you will keep this information between the three of you," the rogue commander said. His tone was serious, almost intimidating. The files revealed confidential, but not secret or top secret, information about Omega, the Collective, Rome's lord high commanders and generals, Dacarus Bartolt, and the heroes who had fought against and defeated Omega as the Earth was pulled into the Void. Sebastian made sure that none of the information could bite him or his allies in the behind. Nothing was revealed about any of the heroes' current whereabouts, nor did the files contain a single word on Snowflake's daughter, Dugal's family, and Dugal's mysterious sword. "Take your time," Bismarck said peacefully. He trusted that the information given to the president would be sufficient.

[Jedi8246]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:29 PM (4:29 PM GMT)
The Americans cunningness had paid off. They were handed the data disk which was promptly inserted into a data pad that was held by David Payne. Feigning ignorance to the details of the Omega incident had worked beautifully. The USNA was well aware of the many involvements of the Omega incident and Dugal Cain. However in order to gauge how much Rome likely knew, they needed a way of acquiring this information in a non obtrusive manner. They quickly read through the files that the rogues held. Most of it was similar to what the USNA had. There were some details regarding the Roman action against Londim and the Collective that they hadn't had. Curiously, details of Dugal's family had been left out. They were purposely hiding that. That was odd, especially considering medical and marriage records could easily be found on that family.

"So you seem to lack information on Dugal's life before HUNT in any manner. Has he not talked to you about any of it?"

"Come now Ms Fell, show some gratitude. IF they don't have anything, then they don't. I'm sure they wouldn't risk an alliance by deliberately withholding information that we requested." He paused. "Now it seems that Mr Cain has redeemed himself in your eyes, as well as the British. That's fine and good, but we don't feel comfortable letting him into our meeting chambers. We will host this meeting, but Mr Cain will have to observe from a different room with some men keeping an eye on him. Agreed?"

[Apostledom of chaos]

"I cannot make such decisions at this time, nor is it appropriate. Attending the conference will not force you into a co-operation with us. If you oppose the proposals presented to you at the conference, then there is nothing stopping you from declining and leaving without repercussions."

Caribbean
October 26th, 2043
5:14 PM GMT

Jeremiah thought for a moment, rubbed the back of his neck, sighed, and relaxed as he visibly came to a conclusion. “Alright, I'll come, but I doubt that me and the NCC have got much, if anything, to give you in terms of strategic benefits.” He paused, “Oh, mind if I bring some friends? Three to be specific, my companion, a friend of a friend, and my brother, Gerald.” He turns his head and looks back towards the bar as a particularly loud crash can be heard emanating from within it's depths.

[Agadar]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:29 PM (4:29 PM GMT)

Sebastian's initial suspicions had been correct. The Americans were playing a game of gouging how much the rogue inquisitors knew. But the Americans had been fairly obvious with their faked obliviousness of the Omega incident and Dugal Cain. Besides the fact that their lack of knowledge was strange to begin with, their behavior and body language betrayed that they were not surprised by the information given to them. Sebastian was admittedly somewhat amused by the psychological chess match. He had left out information about Dugal's family life, information which even the lowest government clerks had access to. It was meant to both mock the Americans by subtly revealing to them that Sebastian knew what they were trying to do, as well as gouging exactly how the Americans were estimating Sebastian. If they did not recognize the mockery, then it was clear that they were assuming that the lack of the information about Dugal's family was a minor screw-up of some sorts, which meant that they were underestimating Sebastian. On the other hands, if they did recognize the mockery, then the Americans and Sebastian would be on the same line. Curiously enough, the Americans did not mention the lack of data at all. Either they were holding on to their cards, or they had disregarded it.

Sebastian frowned when the American president suggested keeping Dugal guarded and isolated in a seperate chamber. He was about to retort, when Bismarck beat him to it. "I trust Dugal Cain as much as I trust commander Fedorov. I vouch for him, and I would like to ask you to trust Dugal as much as you trust me." The catholic leader was being his polite self, but he was not shy of playing games just like Sebastian. By asking the Americans to trust Dugal as much as himself, he was essentially forcing them to choose between either trusting Dugal, or declaring that they did not and thus by extension declaring that they did not trust Bismarck, the leader of the most widespread religion in the world and a major player in international politics.

Sebastian was somewhat amused by his old mentor's witty words, and patiently awaited the Americans' reply.


Caribbean
October 26th, 2043
5:14 PM GMT

"That should be no problem. I'll have an assistant call you to put them on the guest list," Sebastian replied. He leaned back. "I thank you for deciding to attend the conference, mister J. If you have any questions beforehand, you know how to reach me. Have a good day." Having obtained what he wanted, Sebastian politely disconnected the call.

[Jedi8246]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:30 PM (4:30 PM GMT)
The Americans were no fools. These game of shadows they were playing had reached an interesting turn. Bismarck had thrown a gauntlet down at them. To go against Dugal would be to go against the Pope. President Johnson betrayed nothing in his expression, nor did Camela Fell. David Payne was looking slightly testy. It was then that one of the Secret Service agents leaned down and whispered in Johnson's ear. He went back to his position and Johnson replied.

"Interesting words Bismarck. It's not that we doubt your judgement Your Holiness, but it seems your trust has been misplaced as of late. Your arrival in that owl is only one indicator as well as that all you have that are loyal to you are this small group of Inquisitors. So you'll have to understand why we are apprehensive about inviting one of the world's greatest assassins in with us. Especially one whose loyalties are unclear, unlike yours. It is a simple request. You need our help and we are willing to provide it. It would mean ending our years of peace as well as trying to prevent Vladimir Reznov from making Europe a colony. Our request is a small one and one that we hope you will take into consideration."

President Johnson's message was clear. Not only was he pointing out the desperate position that the Inquisitors were in, but he also was pointing out that their negotiations with Vladimir were more damaging than an alliance with the Americans. The USNA was the only ally that currently stood willing to help without thought of colonial gain. The only ally for a free Europe.

[Agadar]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:30 PM (4:30 PM GMT)

The president's words intrigued Sebastian. Did the Americans really believe that the inquisitors waiting outside of the chamber were the entirety of the renegade faction? That would be a very strange and ignorant assumption indeed. Sebastian decided not to address the supposed misconception: he believed it to be likely that the president was trying to poke Sebastian into hinting at how many operatives and external supporters his faction had. A nice try, but Sebastian would not fall for it.

The president continued to carefully dodge Bismarck's dilemma. He knew what he was doing. When Bismarck was given an oppertunity to reply, he immediately did so. "With all due respect, your years of peace ended a long time ago, president Johnson," he spoke. "The South American Union has been trying to break your southern borders for years now, and with the recent attack on New York, any hopes for keeping the USNA out of this war have been utterly shattered. You have already become a part of this war, whether you like it or not." Bismarck remained silent for a brief moment. Meanwhile, Sebastian contemplated the president's words about the Japanese emperor. The president had mentioned Vladimir's desire to turn the to-be-liberated European states into Japanese colonies. There were only two ways in which the president could have found that out: either the Americans had spied upon Vladimir and Annette during their preliminary negotiations in Tokyo, or Vladimir had already talked to the president.

"If I cannot convince you of Dugal's trustworthiness, then I guess I have no choice. I shall inform him that he will not be allowed to attend the conference, at least not in person." Bismarck had a somewhat disappointed look on his face. "He'll remember this distrust of him, though. I hope for the both of us that it will be forgiven." Having said that, all obstacles which prevented a conference to be organized had been removed.

[Jedi8246]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:31 PM (4:31 PM GMT)
All the Americans had the good sense to keep their faces noncommittal this time around. But it seems negotiations would now move forward.

"We thank you Pope Bismarck for your tolerance. However, it's not necessary to keep him entirely away from the meeting. We just want him in a separate area. IF he doesn't want to be kept in a box and stay away, that is his prerogative. But we will host this meeting then. Our press will be informed. A date then?"

[Laughing Peninsula]

Caribbean
October 26th
5:10 GMT

Fred sighed, the game they were playing now was Jeremiah's favorite, it was called Mao. Mao was a game who's only rule was not telling the other players the rules, yet penalizing them if they broke any. The game was relativity chaotic and hard to grasp, and that is exactly why he liked it. Fred approached the table, a glass of Abthine in hand, and picked up Jeremiah's old hand. 'Alrigh-'

The man to his right interrupted him 'Penalty'

'Sneaky buggers, they got a rule on entering the game don't they...' Fred thought, taking a sip of Abthine.

Abthine was a translucent greenish blue fluid he had a few druggists from the Pacific concoct for him years ago. It was an alcoholic beverage with a minty taste, but that wasn't why he payed them to make it. Abthine was a hallucinogenic, a specific one, for it was the same every time he drank some. After drinking more then three shots, he began to see a woman, a beautiful woman, one who was completely without flaw, only she was an opaque green. She was the most beautiful thing Fred has ever seen, because everything he ever knew, is ugly. The pasty make -up, the pores of people around him, the hairs that break out of the skin, the insects and parasites that crawl on them and through the air, all of them hideous, except for her.

The Green Woman floats just inside his field of vision, and that’s all he needs, when he realizes something, he can't see Jeremiah. Going into protection mode, he bolts up and looks for the door Jeremiah left out of, relaxing when he sees Jeremiah is just outside the door. Not wanting to see him out of his sight, Fred grabs the table and drags it closer to the door.

'Jesus Frederick, he isn't going to puff into smoke, their ain't an enemy of J's in over a thousand miles!'

Fred ignores the man's pestering, if there is anything about war Fred remembers, it is the fact it has no boarders.

The game continues a bit longer, when Jeremiah hangs up the phone, when suddenly a loud crash comes from within the bar. Going into protection mode once more, Fred knocks the table on its side, effectively knocking everything off it, rips open the door, grabs Jeremiah by the collar of his shirt, and throws him behind it, taking his gun and aiming it at the door. It couldn't of been some drunk falling over or someone dropping glass, too loud for that, someone broke though the wall or the door, could be someone reversing into the building, or it could be a raid, he doesn't know; and he isn't going to take that chance.

Brazilian Amazon
October 26th
5:12 GMT

There is a faint rustling in the distance, definitely human, the way it brushes past the leaves and the pressures on the roots. The height is unknown, but it walks with a large foot, and is of average weight. It is clear it is trying to sneak, probably would of worked, if he knew who he was trying to sneak up on.

Gerald opens his eyes, he has been asleep for roughly five sun rotations, finally resting after the last raid. Now this human was trying to sneak on him. Sinking into the tree, Gerald moves freely through the interconnected roots, and finds the man. Gerald raises through the root, behind the man, and places a hand on his shoulder.

'You should try harder next time'

The human jumps almost out of her skin, falling forward and ending up on the ground. Gerald is not positive on the name, but he believes it is a newer recruit.

'G-G-Gerald?' She askes

'Yes?'

'My name is Samantha, I've been sent by the others to warn you'

'Warn me of what'

'The Men, they are back, they have the Machines again'

Gerald sighs Humans they think they can kill Mother...

'Run back to the front lines, I'll be there shortly'

The woman named Sam runs off, and Gerald reaches to a vine, caressing it 'Don't worry my sweets, they won't harm you' and almost in reply, the vine slowly wraps around his fingers lovingly.


October 26
Red Hand HQ, R&D Department
5:14 GMT

'Quinn, it is finished'

Quinn slowly arises, they drugged him a while back, so he hasn't a clue what day or time it is in the windowless room he finds himself in. his vision adjusting the bright light takes a bit, but thankfully one of the techs remembers his disability and hands him a pair of sunglasses.

Quinn looks over to his left arm, and studies the new base they have made for him. It is currently only the skeleton of a hand, currently slightly clenched around the arm chair. He raises the arm and tries to move a digit, but fails.

'I thought you said we've “finished”' Quinn snorts

'Well... we have finished connecting the various nerve endings together, it is still going to take a while to backwards engineer the hand you gave us Quinn, but we assure you that we have no bottom to our gratitude for delivering that devise, with the tech in that... we may be able to make other prosthetic, perhaps even organs! Without that arm, we would of just cut away the useless parts and slapped a sword or something on there.'

Quinn smirks 'I probably could of used that'

The researcher beams 'Such is the glory of the devise you gave us! With it, we were able to make that, but make it so you could swap it out with other things. Now I know you want to have a hand again. So a am going to hard ball this for you. We theorize the ETA of you being able to move that hand with even 50% of what you once could, will take months if not years.'

Quinn frowns 'Time dates? YEARS? The war'll be over by then!'

Quinn concentrates on the metal rig he has on him, and slowly the hand balls into a fist, one digit at a time 'I will do it in a month'

October 26
Red Hand HQ, Louis' Office
5:10 GMT

Louis closes the call, and begins to laugh, laugh hard. He simply can't believe it, that his luck has been able to bring him this far, this long. One meeting, one meeting and it'll be done, his aspirations, his goals and dreams, will finally be met, Germany will be his, all he has to do is aid in the defeat the largest empire the world has ever known, and he doesn't care, to get this, he would level entire mountains, move entire rives, and beat back the tides themselves. It will be his, all of it; and nothing will stop him.

Louis gets up, and looks to the sky, or rather his ceiling. 'Ministry, I hope you are watching this, I will take this entire world, and I will take it for you...'

Louis points to the door, his secretary sheepishly opening it to see what he was laughing about. 'Get me the guardians! I have wonderful news!'

[Agadar]

White House, Washington D.C.
October 26th, 2043
12:31 PM (4:31 PM GMT)

"The 25th of November would be perfect," Sebastian said, but without revealing exactly why it would be perfect.

Bismarck silently observed as the rogue commander and the American president continued to schedule the conference. It would be a world-changing conference. If Bismarck could obtain international support for his cause, then Dacarus Bartolt would fall. No matter how advanced Janner's neo-technologies were, the sheer numbers of the global armed forces alone would be enough to defeat them. Rome would be attacked from all sides. But just like back with the Londimian empire and Omega, it was going to be a race against time. Back then, Omega had tried to spread the ability to unlock innate superpowers to every single human being in one fell swoop. Bismarck and his allies had been able to stop him and prevent the utter chaos and violence which would have been the result of the mass spreading of superpowers, but only just. And now, Dacarus Bartolt was trying to do something at least as devastating, that was for sure. The unknown thing for which he needed the souls of millions; the thing which he had described as 'killing God'. Whether it was merely a nickname for something else or whether Dacarus truly believed that he was trying to kill God was uncertain. In fact, what Dacarus was trying to achieve was a complete mystery to Bismarck and his allies.

A while ago, almost as soon as Bismarck had learned that Rome wasn't just collecting all of the souls for their neo-weapons but also for something much greater, he had Sebastian come up with a list of possibilities. The list which Sebastian had given Bismarck contained more than a hundred different scenarios, and it was impossible to narrow it down with their current intel. On top of that, there was even the possibility that what Dacarus was trying to achieve wasn't even on the list. To make it even worse, Sebastian's spies within the Vatican had thus far produced no new intel on Bartolt's goal whatsoever. It seemed that only a handful of Bartolt's people had even a slight idea of what was going on. Most Roman officers and politicians, even the generals and cardinals, simply had no clue. It was truly a secret well hidden.

The future is painted with both hope and despair. It will be the actions of the world powers, but more importantly, the actions of Man's greatest heroes, which will decide the fate of Earth.

~~~End of Act III~~~