The Great Belligerency [Round 4: Static]

Originally posted on MSPA by Dragon Fogel.

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If Cole still possessed the features to smirk, he would have had to hold himself back. For the moment, it had gone well. He spun a thick strand of webbing, and lowered himself to the floor with it.

"You'll pardon me if I forgo the customary handshake while we discuss business," he said. Reinhardt nodded. He understood the man now (or so he thought), but had no desire to touch that disgusting mound of flesh, or the insects covering its surface. Cole continued.

"Let me be clear on one point. My primary targets in this contest are the two gods."

"Understandable. I would caution you not to forget the man named Dove as you plan your assault on them, however. We were told he has made humanity his enemy."

"Indeed, I am well aware of that. I am also somewhat concerned about the Spirit; she reminds me of Anansi the Spider, the god who cursed me. That leaves four contestants for a potential alliance - the two of us, Phil Girnham, and Amy. Girnham seemed generally uninterested in taking on gods when I saw him a moment ago, but he was not hostile to me. He may be more persuadable if there are two of us."

"And the girl?"

"I have not encountered her yet, and our host was frustratingly vague about her. I cannot predict what she will do. Nonetheless, given our lack of other options, I feel pursuing an alliance is necessary regardless."

Reinhardt stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Unite the humans, hmm? A sensible approach. You've thought this through well."

"If we are in agreement, then, I suggest we follow Phil Girnham." Cole walked towards the kitchen. "He headed this way not long ago. It should not be difficult to catch up."