u/Thebeanmanboi

Chapter 61

The nameless god, as per usual, stood in the center.

Nameless god: HELLO, HELLO! MATCH 2 OF ROUND 2 SHALL NOW COMMENCE!

Right as he began speaking, the crowd was in an uproar. They were familiar with the game between their Karl and Clansman and were sure to witness a fantastic bout!

Nameless god: ALRIGHT! ON THE LEFT, WE HAVE OUR FAMED SCOTSMAN! A MAN WITH STRENGTH AND FREEDOM, AND A GAZE OF BURNING WHITE! THE UNICORN OF SCOTLAND!

The gate opened and Fergus ran in at full charge, a pitchfork raised forward, only to be confused why there's nobody ahead of him.

He halted with a skid beside the nameless god.

Fergus: What gives, god-man!? Why'm I out first!

Nameless god: You charge before the round starts, I can't take the risk.

Fergus: Tch, fine. Go'n send ‘em out!

He stood ready as the other gate opened.

Nameless god: AND ON THE RIGHT, OUR VERY KARL OF THE NORTH! A MAN LIKE NOTHING WEAKER THAN A GRIZZLY BEAR!

Asbrand entered the arena, a casual grin on his face, as per usual.

He stood before Fergus, looking down at him. Asbrand stood quietly before putting out ahead of him.

Asbrand: Let's have a good match, friend!

Fergus eyed the hand before grabbing it, impressed with Asbrand's grip strength.

Fergus: A good match is for a wuss! Don't spare me a bit of y'power, man!

Asbrand's face lit up at Fergus’ insistence at fighting full power immediately, even if he was already planning to.

Asbrand: You have my word!

He takes some steps back as the nameless god set the two and stepped back himself.

Nameless god: FIIIIIIIIGHT!!!

Chapter 60

Bahram passed out where he sat, the medical team wheeling him off to go deal with his full body injuries.

The nameless god made his way to the waiting rooms, opening the door to Asbrand's room.

He perked up as the door opened, only for the nameless god to walk in on his making a life size wood carving of his wife!

Asbrand: Oh, is the match already over?

Nameless god: Yep, knight won the match.

Asbrand: I see, I see, must be my turn then!

His wife shifted uncomfortably in her seat upon hearing this…

Snaefrid: Asbrand…Must you really go?

Asbrand: I'm sorry, my dear, but I must, yes…

She let out a small breath of air, looking him in the eyes.

Snaefrid: You better win, Asbrand. I can't lose you again.

Asbrand: You have my word, dear.

He planned a kiss on her forehead before getting ready, his trusty skeggøx in his hand, and his seax at his hip. No point in changing what works.

As he put on his helmet, Snaefrid stood, biting the tip of her thumb before tracing a protection rune on his helmet.

Snaefrid: Don't let up, not even a second, my love.

Asbrand: I'm certain you'll see me again, Snaefrid. Just trust me.

Snaefrid nodded, albeit with uncertainty, before sitting back down. Asbrand left the room and to the arena, Snaefrid immediately pulled up the hologram that allowed a view of the arena.

The nameless god left to go to the room over from Asbrand's, opening the door to be met with…two men wearing absolutely nothing pumping squats!

Fergus looked up and grinned a wide grin.

Fergus: ‘Ello there, god-man!

He spotted his squats, immediately getting dressed in his battle-wear. Though as he dressed, the nameless god couldn't help noticing the second dirk at Fergus’ hip…

Fergus: Well then, my wee lad!

He looked to his close buddy Baenard, who was still hitting leg-based motion as he spoke.

Fergus: Wish me luck! I gots me a fight to win!

Baenard stood straight, looping an arm around Fergus’ neck.

Baenard: If ye nae come back, lad, ye owe me yer life's worth o'drinks!

Fergus: Aye, aye, ye ‘ave my word! Now then, let's get a move-on! Outta my way!

He pushed past the nameless god, heading to the arena.

Nameless god: He's gotten really good with that fake leg, hasn't he!

Baenard: Aye, man's right as rain. He tell ye what he's got hidin'?

Nameless god: Mhm, he's hiding a whole shotgun in there, isn't he?

Baernard: That'll get him far, I reckon…That fool can take a beating harder than any fool I know…

The nameless god soon left the room, waving to Baenard as he left.

And so, match 2 of round 2 will now commence…

Chapter 59

The two stood face to face with each other for a moment, simply breathing, trying to catch their breaths.

Bahram: I can see that passion in your eyes…heh, no wonder y’still goin’!

Gunya didn't care about what his opponent had to say. Raising up a fist, he rocked Bahram's head to the side.

Bahram followed suit, punching him right back.

Again, then another, then one more…just like Gunya's first match, it turned into nothing but a slug fest.

A particular shock to the jaw caused Bahram to tilt to the side for a moment, before catching himself on a shaky foot, suddenly winding his hand back and smacking the back of Gunya's head with the gauntlet.

Bahram forced a burst of movement out as he made some distance. From the side, he noticed his zweihander, simply sitting wedged into the ground.

Bahram made a mad dash for it, ripping it from the ground. He changed his grip, turning it upside down so that the handle and handguard would make for a longer range, blunt strike.

Bahram: It worked before, ought to try it again…

He stomped forward, hard enough to crack the packed sand flooring before sprinting forward. Gunya was aware that this was Bahram's last stand and all was riding in properly striking him.

Gunya took a small step back, before realising the rustling within his cloak. He pulled a small sack, drawing the string back to see a fine black powder inside…

That's right. A parting gift from his Aztec opponent…

As Bahram drew closer, Gunya threw that bag, the powder flying outward and all over Bahram's face, immediately getting into his eyes and mouth.

Bahram missed completely, stumbling to the ground as he struggled to breath and see. His vision was in dark splotches, but he was determined in winning this.

His sky blue flame surged. Morphed. Narrowed.

Blue is the strongest color fire can naturally take…And he was determined to live up to that…

His body felt weightless, standing slowly on battered legs, before turning back, yelling out incoherent nonsense as he practically felt Gunya's presence in the air.

Gunya gritted his teeth at this man's insistence, taking out the last boomerang he had on him.

Bahram: BETTER MAKE Y'LAST HIT COUNT, DAMMIT! CAUSE I'LL KEEP GETTING UP UNTIL YOU KILL ME!

As he drew closer, he raised a fist high, shutting his mouth tightly.

Gunya brought up the boomerang, swinging it up as Bahram came close.

Then…Bahram spat, shooting a flurry of built up blood within his mouth against Gunya's face, disrupting him just enough to narrowly graze his chin, and delivering a fierce blow to Gunya's face!

Gunya's jaw simply shattered at the hit, Bahram sending him into the ground.

Gunya laid there.

And laid there.

He didn't have the strength to keep going.

He saw the faint dreaming warp to a presence ahead of him, Yurlunggur making an appearance.

Yurlunggur: Oh my, I had so much faith in you, my dear mortal…but you gave it your all! You should rest! You deserve it…

Yurlunggur disappeared after his speech, and Gunya just kept lying there.

His flame flickered, and soon…He shut his eyes, his body fading to dust.

Bahram fell to his knees. Chuckling to himself despite his inability to actually breathe right…

Vassal Bahram vs Aboriginal Gunya

Winner: Bahram

Deciding move: A punch fit for a dirty player

Match length: 18 minutes, 28 seconds

Chapter 58

Almost in an instant, Gunya flashed forward at Bahram, a boomerang gripped tightly enough to dent the handle with his handprint.

Before Bahram could react, the boomerang collided into his side before Gunya pulled back and suddenly, there was a deep tear in both Bahram's armor and his flesh beneath…

Bahram's eyes went wide in his head before a fist then clashed with his face, forcing him into the ground.

He grunted on impact. He felt Gunya's foot slam on his chest, his heel digging into his chest as Gunya held his boomerang over Bahram's head.

Bahram: Hah! You were gettin’ yer ass hand to ya moments ago! You're finally givin’ me a good fight!

Bahram then gripped Gunya's ankle and…began to spin?

An aboriginal man in the crowd recognized this technique.

Aboriginal man: That move! It's what crocodiles do with their prey!

Gunya cocked an eyebrow before suddenly being slammed into the ground, Bahram immediately standing to his feet, backing a little just to make some distance.

From his back, he pulled out a battle axe, the long handle held tightly in his gauntleted hands.

He let out a puff of air and began to run, only for Gunya to cover that distance for him!

In Gunya's hand was the club sword he dropped moments before, him going for a horizontal strike that, with Gunya's newfound strength, could just as well tear Bahram in half!

Bahram raised his battle axe up by the blade to defend the strike. Thanks to the sharp edge, and Gunya's power, the club sword was simply cleaved into.

Bahram took a minute just to sweat, glaring at Gunya, whose body looked to be at its limit…

Bahram: Y'not lookin’ so hot there, buddy…

Gunya looked to be visibly struggling. Even with all the strength he had, his breathing was akin to a dog in the summer.

Gunya: Stop your talking…

He pulled the club sword from the battle axe, taking slow, dragging steps back.

Bahram got low, his feet at shoulder length.

Bahram: Tch…DURCHLAUFEN!

He grinned as he leaped forward with wide arms, but just as he got close, Gunya shot his knee in the air, colliding right with Bahram's chin.

Bahram hit the ground with a thud, unmoving for a moment.

Gunya turned around, believing he had finally offed his opponent, before feeling a hand grab his ankle.

Bahram's head slowly tilted up. He grinned, despite missing some teeth.

Bahram: I'm not done yet…YOU STILL HADN'T KILLED ME!

He jerked his hand back, disrupting Gunya's balance by only a smidge before jumping.

He circled Gunya's body, slamming his battle axe downward to cleave into him, Gunya only barely defending the strike with his club sword.

Bahram immediately let go of his battle axe and rocketed his fist into Gunya's stomach, the impact alone letting loose all the wind in Gunya's lungs, before a fist came flying at Gunya's face, forcing his head to the side.

Bahram: YOU GOTTA TEAR ME TO PIECES OF YOU WANNA HAVE A CHANCE OF WINNING!

Bahram sent fist after fist flying, battering Gunya with heavy punches.

Gunya could feel his rainbow-colored flame fading, his vision fluttering. Then he saw something he couldn't think twice about. Yurlunggur was watching him, even from the Dreaming…

Gunya had to win.

GUNYA MUST WIN!

Just before Bahram could throw another punch, Gunya tilted his body back and delivered a heavy strike with his heel against Bahram's head.

Bahram's vision fluttered for a moment before he managed to regain his consciousness, only to see Gunya rushing at him despite being battered beyond belief…

He felt a spear impaled into the side that Gunya tore open earlier and was met face to face with him.

Bahram: I'm surprised y’still standin’...

He gripped Gunya's shoulder…

Bahram: C'mon, man…We gotta see who's collapsin’ first!

Chapter 57

Bahram threw aside his warhammer, running forward as he plunged out a poleaxe, Gunya just barely blocking the sharp spear tip with his arm.

Bahram practically yelled rather than laughed, the widest smile on his face as he drove his weapon deeper.

Gunya winced as the spear tip buried deep into his arm, almost puncturing right through.

Gunya had little time to think, deciding to go for a wild strike and slamming the boomerangs end into Bahram's back.

Bahram coughed at the impact and ripped the poleaxe from Gunya's arm, only to spin around and go for another strike.

Gunya leaped backwards, going for a lower position to catch his breath. He clutched his side as he realized just how much he was actually bleeding out.

Bahram: Wassa matter!? C'mon, I'm only gettin’ warmed up! Face me, you cur!

He stomped forward before charging, his flame flickering into a massive burst as he closed the distance!

Then.

Something in Gunya's eyes changed. His pale gray flame formed more color. A rainbow.

The space seemed to slow, colors of many kinds began to warp around the space as Gunya stood stunned and confused, then a figure's voice rang out to Gunya.

Figure: Goodness, it has been ages since somebody has appeared in my dreaming! Welcome, welcome!

The figure slowly took form, a mass of rainbow colors forming an elongated body and, before long, Gunya was met with Yurlunggur…the Aboriginal creator god…

Gunya stared almost in awe before quickly shaking his head.

Gunya: Why have I come here, Yurlunggur…

Yurlunggur: Ah, a good question, a good question indeed…I suppose it is because of that little fire in your vision!

Gunya: little…fire?

Yurlunggur: Yes, yes, little fire! You are pushing your physical form and your spirit is growing stronger before your body can react! I will not call it special per say…but you are growing stronger by the second, my little mortal!

Gunya: Is that all I'm here for?

Yurlunggur: I suppose so. Though it does seem like you are in trouble, this guy looks like a mighty fella, certainly so!

Gunya: He makes me sick…

Yurlunggur: Would it turn to your favor if I were to help?

Gunya thought for a moment. Then;

Gunya: No…I want to win with my hands alone. This is a matter of man to man…Besides, this man doesn't stop talking and it would appease me to shut him.

Yurlunggur: Suit yourself, mortal.

The massive snake god began to coil and, before Gunya could react, Yurlunggur's body passed through Gunya like water and the dreaming seemed to fade.

Gunya's body was tilted back, just narrowly dodging Bahram's poleaxe lunge.

Gunya stood back straight before taking some steps back. His flame grew brighter, hotter…and it flickered with rainbow sparks.

Chapter 56

As the match began, Bahram gritted his teeth behind his helmet.

He took a step back, pulling his zweihander from his back before swinging it down at a blinding speed, Gunya easily blocking with his carved wooden shield.

Bahram tore the zweihander back, spinning around and following with another rising strike, which Gunya flowed with, shrugging off the strike with his shield.

Each miss, Bahram twirled his body to follow the motion of his zweihander, as if his sword were a river that he was sailing to create follow-up after follow-up!

Bahram: KEEP DOIN’ NOTHIN’ THERE N’ YOU'RE FLAT DEAD!

He spun and suddenly leaped in the air, slamming down his zweihander, just for Gunya to sidestep him and attack right as Bahram's sword cleaved into the ground.

The gray flame in Gunya's eyes flared as he slammed the handle of his massive club sword into Bahram's waist.

Bahram grunted, surprised that he was actually able to feel that even through full armor!

Bahram tugged the sword from the ground and swung, clashing with Gunya's club sword.

The two were locked in place, the zweihander's blade cutting into the club sword's thick shaft.

Bahram: You think you can tucker me out, eh?

He cackled as he suddenly brought up his knee, clashing it right into Gunya's center, wind leaving his lungs immediately as Bahram shoved him back.

Gunya staggered for a moment as he tried to catch his breath, Bahram wasting no time as he lunged forward, driving the very tip of his zweihander into Gunya's waist.

Bahram stepped forward, driving it deeper. Gunya thought quickly, swinging his club sword down to dislodge the zweihander.

His flame burned brighter, he gritted his teeth, and leaped forward to swing from below with the club sword.

Bahram's eyes went wide at the man's ability to move, grunting as the massive club sword made contact with his side.

He felt several ribs crack on impact as he's thrown to the side, stumbling into the dirt ground.

As he slowly rose, Gunya wasted no time, practically flying forward at near impossible speeds for the regular human. His muscles burned as he swung the club sword high overhead!

Gunya: Rainbow Serpent! Yurlunggur!

The club sword slammed downward in a massive arc, and as it moved, his gray flame surged brilliantly!

A rainbow-like aura seemed to form around the club sword right as it narrowed at Bahram, and…

SLAM

The dust picked up, clearing into…nothing.

Gunya was confused. He looked side to side before hearing the sound of metal rushing toward him!

He turned around and just narrowly blocked a strike from Bahram.

Gunya: Tch…How…

Bahram: HOW D'YOU THINK! I WAS JUST FUCKIN’ BRILLIANT ENOUGH TO DODGE!

Bahram's flame, a sky blue, shone in his own eyes. He pushed forward, his strength managing to just barely overpower Gunya.

Bahram: EAT SHIT!

He suddenly tilted his zweihander, letting it go and completely throwing off Gunya!

From his back, he pulled a warhammer. Spinning, he slammed the powerful hammer end into Gunya's ribs, shattering a solid few as Gunya shuffled to the side.

He let go of his club sword and, from behind his shield, he pulled out a boomerang and jumped forward, clashing once more with his opponent.

He dug his feet into the ground as he pushed forward before suddenly cracking the end of his shield into the side of Bahram's helmeted head.

His head cocked to the side at the sudden force before suddenly cackling!

Bahram: YE IDIOT! I DIDN'T FEEL A THING!

He let one hand leave his warhammer, they hand going to his hip and pulling out an arming dagger. He brought it up and immediately buried it until Gunya's arm, messing with his own strength to continue the fight in his favor!

Gunya shoved him back and moved away to make space between them. His lack of armor made for a struggle on Bahram's part, Gunya dashing as if he were a squirrel easily evading the likes of a rolling stone.

Then, suddenly, he threw his shield forward, knocking Bahram's head back before rushing forward and slamming the blunt end of the boomerang into his opponent's armor. His strength alone was able to dent deeply.

Gunya reached up, tearing the helmet from Bahram's head and shoving him back again.

Gunya threw the helmet aside as Bahram got his ground again.

Bahram: Yer a dirty player…

He grinned.

Bahram: Makes it all the more fun!

Chapter 55

The nameless god stood in the center of the arena. The crowd has gotten used to this by now and had been eagerly anticipating this match.

Nameless god: GOOD DAY, EVERYBODY! ROUND 2 OF THE TOURNAMENT SHALL NOW COMMENCE!

The crowd was at the edge of their seats as they waited!

Nameless god: ON THE LEFT, WE HAVE OUR VERY KNIGHT! OUR FIERCELY FIGHTING LION OF EUROPE!

Nobody has ever called the knight that, the nameless god made it up for dramatic effect. It was surprisingly effective as the crowd began cheering for him. The words “Fighting Lion” ring out through the stadium!

The gate opens, and the very Knight Vassal, Bahram has entered!

His arms were raised in the air, him grinning behind his helmet as he entered the arena.

Bahram: Thank you, thank you, it's a pleasure!

He cackled as he bathed in his glory, the nameless god settling the crowd so he could bring in Bahram's opponent.

Nameless god: AND ON THE RIGHT, WE HAVE OUR MAN FROM OCEANIA! OUR KILLER CROCODILE OF THE OUTBACK!

Seems the nameless god has started making up nicknames, good on him.

The crowd looked as dust suddenly kicked up by the right entrance, only for it to suddenly sweep away in an arch as Gunya entered the arena.

He stood in front of Bahram, staring up at him. Their height wasn't exactly staggering in difference, but Gunya could sense the power in a man of similar stature.

He gripped his club sword hard before slowly, almost impossibly precisely, lowered it to rest like a cane on the ground.

Bahram: What's with the cape, Henry VIII?

He chuckled at his own joke, only to get nothing but a twinged eyebrow from Gunya.

Bahram: As quiet as ever, huh…You're a sad man to not humor your enemy!

He lifted his helmet just enough to reveal his mouth, only to spit at Gunya, who remained as still as ever.

Bahram: Nothing…

He lowered his helmet, scoffing, before taking some steps back.

Bahram: Start the match, god…

The nameless god nodded, backing up within the arena as he then yelled out.

Nameless god: FIIIIIIIIGHT!!

Chapter 55

The nameless god stood in the center of the arena. The crowd has gotten used to this by now and had been eagerly anticipating this match.

Nameless god: GOOD DAY, EVERYBODY! ROUND 2 OF THE TOURNAMENT SHALL NOW COMMENCE!

The crowd was at the edge of their seats as they waited!

Nameless god: ON THE LEFT, WE HAVE OUR VERY KNIGHT! OUR FIERCELY FIGHTING LION OF EUROPE!

Nobody has ever called the knight that, the nameless god made it up for dramatic effect. It was surprisingly effective as the crowd began cheering for him. The words “Fighting Lion” ring out through the stadium!

The gate opens, and the very Knight Vassal, Bahram has entered!

His arms were raised in the air, him grinning behind his helmet as he entered the arena.

Bahram: Thank you, thank you, it's a pleasure!

He cackled as he bathed in his glory, the nameless god settling the crowd so he could bring in Bahram's opponent.

Nameless god: AND ON THE RIGHT, WE HAVE OUR MAN FROM OCEANIA! OUR KILLER CROCODILE OF THE OUTBACK!

Seems the nameless god has started making up nicknames, good on him.

The crowd looked as dust suddenly kicked up by the right entrance, only for it to suddenly sweep away in an arch as Gunya entered the arena.

He stood in front of Bahram, staring up at him. Their height wasn't exactly staggering in difference, but Gunya could sense the power in a man of similar stature.

He gripped his club sword hard before slowly, almost impossibly precisely, lowered it to rest like a cane on the ground.

Bahram: What's with the cape, Henry VIII?

He chuckled at his own joke, only to get nothing but a twinged eyebrow from Gunya.

Bahram: As quiet as ever, huh…You're a sad man to not humor your enemy!

He lifted his helmet just enough to reveal his mouth, only to spit at Gunya, who remained as still as ever.

Bahram: Nothing…

He lowered his helmet, scoffing, before taking some steps back.

Bahram: Start the match, god…

The nameless god nodded, backing up within the arena as he then yelled out.

Nameless god: FIIIIIIIIGHT!!

Chapter 54

It was an awfully cool morning. The crowds of humans and gods have been kept entertained through performances brought out by some of the greatest entertainers in history.

Ragnarok has remained on a hold so that the nameless god can bring out his little dream that anybody could've snuffed out at any moment.

Thanks to the technology of the gods, the nameless god’s little fighters have been healed and ready fast, albeit with scarring and whatnot.

The nameless god spent every minute he could preparing and making sure his fighters got the best possible so they were in top condition to fight.

Today was the very day round 2 began, and every fighter was beyond ready!

---

The nameless god entered the room of Bahram, who sat in his room as ready as ever, fully set in armor, though what caught the nameless god's attention was the array of new weapons unlike the last this knight fought with.

Nameless god: I see you have a new set!

The weapons ranged through battle axes, poleaxes, warhammers, but what really caught the gods eye was a massive longsword; the infamous zweihander…

Bahram: ‘Course I did, my opponent should know what I'm good with, suppose I should mix it up!

He stood up with a grunt and began to hoist his various weapons to him before snapping his fingers, which the nameless god was confused by because the knight was wearing gauntlets…

His humble squire ran from a corner in the room and fastened a helmet to Bahram's head, masking his entire face.

Bahram: Last fight jacked up my eye, I oughta cover my whole face this time ‘round!

Squire: Y-You got this, sir!

Bahram: Don't tell me something I already know…

He marched out of the room, his armor clinking with every step as he made his way to the arena.

The nameless god made his way to the room of Gunya, our Aboriginal.

He opened the door to see the man burning marks into a large mat of skins and furs sewn together.

He didn't look up, the nameless god deciding to approach.

Nameless god: Your match is up, c'mon.

Gunya closed his eyes for a moment before putting out the tool he was using to burn into the sewn cloak with.

He stood up and draped the long cloak over his shoulders. He took hold of his weapons, all the same as the last round, though the nameless god can't help but notice Gunya's club sword looks…larger than before…

He stepped out, cloak fluttering behind him in movement both fluid and rushed. The nameless god couldn't help but admire how he carried himself.

He knew this was going to be an incredible match…

Chapter 54

It was an awfully cool morning. The crowds of humans and gods have been kept entertained through performances brought out by some of the greatest entertainers in history.

Ragnarok has remained on a hold so that the nameless god can bring out his little dream that anybody could've snuffed out at any moment.

Thanks to the technology of the gods, the nameless god’s little fighters have been healed and ready fast, albeit with scarring and whatnot.

The nameless god spent every minute he could preparing and making sure his fighters got the best possible so they were in top condition to fight.

Today was the very day round 2 began, and every fighter was beyond ready!

---

The nameless god entered the room of Bahram, who sat in his room as ready as ever, fully set in armor, though what caught the nameless god's attention was the array of new weapons unlike the last this knight fought with.

Nameless god: I see you have a new set!

The weapons ranged through battle axes, poleaxes, warhammers, but what really caught the gods eye was a massive longsword; the infamous zweihander…

Bahram: ‘Course I did, my opponent should know what I'm good with, suppose I should mix it up!

He stood up with a grunt and began to hoist his various weapons to him before snapping his fingers, which the nameless god was confused by because the knight was wearing gauntlets…

His humble squire ran from a corner in the room and fastened a helmet to Bahram's head, masking his entire face.

Bahram: Last fight jacked up my eye, I oughta cover my whole face this time ‘round!

Squire: Y-You got this, sir!

Bahram: Don't tell me something I already know…

He marched out of the room, his armor clinking with every step as he made his way to the arena.

The nameless god made his way to the room of Gunya, our Aboriginal.

He opened the door to see the man burning marks into a large mat of skins and furs sewn together.

He didn't look up, the nameless god deciding to approach.

Nameless god: Your match is up, c'mon.

Gunya closed his eyes for a moment before putting out the tool he was using to burn into the sewn cloak with.

He stood up and draped the long cloak over his shoulders. He took hold of his weapons, all the same as the last round, though the nameless god can't help but notice Gunya's club sword looks…larger than before…

He stepped out, cloak fluttering behind him in movement both fluid and rushed. The nameless god couldn't help but admire how he carried himself.

He knew this was going to be an incredible match…

Chapter 53

After delivering Hinewai's precious little puppy to her, the nameless god went on to go see the strange, still unnamed Ayyubid Nafatun.

He opened the door to see the man was simply still wearing his armor, like it's a second skin to him.

He turned his head and beamed under his helmet's leather flap and began speaking, though it's all still muffled nonsense.

Nameless god: Hello there. Everybody is taking a break from fighting to rest, but you don't seem to need any at all!

The Nafatun shot the nameless god a thumbs up at understanding.

Nameless god: On that note, is there anybody you'd like to meet before we begin the next set of rounds?

The Nafatun tilted his head, thinking, followed by more muttered nonsense!

The nameless god grew awkward as he stood there, convinced that the Nafatun had no idea nobody understands him, and nodded.

Nameless god: Yyyyeah, yeah I'll uh…get that for you!

The nameless god hurried out of the room, leaving the Nafatun a little bewildered at what he was in such a hurry for. It's not like the Nafatun wanted anybody brought to him!

The nameless god sprinted down the hall as he made his way to a medical room, opening the door to see Dhruv hooked up to a few medical machines and strange things meant to heal someone as fast as possible.

He approached as Dhruv remained asleep, wondering if the old man had anybody he would've liked meeting with…

After some time, the nameless god left the room to let him rest, wondering what exactly he should do next.

Going down the halls, he spotted the familiar wrinkled face of the mighty Zeus walking the opposite direction.

The nameless god looked confused at what Zeus of all gods could be doing.

Nameless god: Hello there Lord Zeus!

Zeus perked up at his name being called and hobbled over toward the nameless god

Zeus: Well hello there. Thought I'd come around to meet these very fighters you set up personally, and I do say they have great potential.

The nameless god's cheeks warmed in delight at the praise coming from the god none other than Zeus!

Zeus: I should also add that these fighters are really rallying me up. Surely they couldn't take me, but they're well off in their own right…You don't suppose you have a plan for the winner of this whole thing do you?

Nameless god: Oh, I uh…Never considered…

He thought for a moment, his hand resting in his chin.

Nameless god: I dunno actually. Would be cool if they got something big from it.

Zeus: Certainly so! You still have time, so don't think too hard…

Like that, Zeus wobbled his way to the medical room that held Dhruv, off to make his judgements on the passed out fellow.

The nameless god stood, thinking more…

…

Numerous days pass later

Chapter 52

After returning to Fergus with his old buddy Baenard, the nameless god moved to the room of our favorite Agodjie, Sena!

Upon opening the door, he sees her swinging around the same cleaver her first opponent Diederik had, despite being injured from the chest down.

She turned to him and grinned, despite the pain she was in.

Sena: Hello dere. What brings you?

Nameless god: Just checking on my fighters, you did great on your first match.

Sena: Much thanks!

Nameless god: Anyway, while I'm here, is there anybody you'd like to see in the time you heal?

Sena stopped her movement, standing straight with a hand on her hip

Sena: I would say him, but I know dat cannot happen…

The two went a little silent. Awkwardly silent…

Nameless god: R-Right, right…

Sena: Ah, do not let my words get you down, as long as I have dis, he is still with me!

She swung the cleaver down, her eyes going wide as she felt a nerve pinch in her arm. She fell back, taking a seat.

Sena: Dough I should catch a break…My body is aching.

Nameless god: Well then, I'll leave you to your healing.

He left, bowing slightly before heading to the next room over.

He entered the room of the Maori Hinewai, who seems to be watching the fight between Sena and Diederik on a hologram screen.

She didn't turn her head, but she spoke toward the nameless god.

Hinewai: Her style is strange. She reminds me of a lizard!

She turned her head to the nameless god

Hinewai: I have a tough match ahead of me, don't I!

She stood, stretching before wincing as she remembered the damage to her hip.

Hinewai: Sheesh, that man really got me…

Nameless god: You'll be healed in no time, there's no better medicines than here!

Hinewai chuckled before taking a seat.

Hinewai: You got that right, it's all rather confusing though. Sure glad I'm not working it myself.

Nameless god: While I'm here, do you want to see anybody you know'd be here?

Hinewai tilted her head back, shrugging.

Hinewai: Not like I knew many people…Are animals here? My family had the cutest little Kurī and I'd love seeing him again!

Nameless god: Huh, I don't think I've ever seen an animal that didn't belong to some god…I'll see what I can do.

He left the room, Hinewai relaxing into her seat, only for her to end up falling into a light nap…

Chapter 51

The nameless god walked deeper down the hall, entering a room to see our very Nordic Karl, Asbrand!

He sits shirtless, bandages all around his stomach and neck, as well as various pads to deal with bruising.

He turned his head, smiling to the nameless god. In his hand was a small block of wood, a carving knife in his other as he whittled like normal. It appeared to be some type of wolf this time around.

He carefully set it aside to a small array of other carvings, featuring various other animals.

Asbrand: What brings you this time around, friend?

The nameless god approached closer.

Nameless god: I've come to give my congratulations to your win in the first round! Everybody will be taking a break for some time so that we're all at top condition.

Asbrand nodded as he took out another block of wood, carving into it.

Asbrand: Give me an animal, would you?

The nameless god smirked before thinking. Taking a seat beside Asbrand, he spoke up.

Nameless god: A pig?

Asbrand, already forming some type of shape, nodded as he changed his grip.

Asbrand: Excellent pick. Their meat is quite delicious, I'd say.

Nameless god: Aaanyway, with me here, is there anybody you'd like to see?

Asbrand: Hm…In my time, I had a rather lovely wife by the name of Snaefrid. Would that be too much to have her come over?

Nameless god: Oh certainly not! I can bring her right away!

He got up, dashing out of the room. In his walk, he ends up bumping into somebody, stumbling back before regaining his balance, looking up to apologize to whoever he ran into, only to realise it's none other than Brunhilde!

Nameless god: Ah, Brunhilde! I'm terribly sorry!

Brunhilde: It's rather fine, I've been meaning to talk with you again anyhow.

Nameless god: I have to go find somebody, think we can walk and talk?

Brunhilde nodded, walking with him as they went into the arena stands.

Brunhilde: As we know, your little fighters have been forming a strange fire in their eyes, and as far as I know, it's something all of them have.

Nameless god: This again? I thought we pretty much figured it out?

Brunhilde: Certainly not. We know its function, but how it's caused or why my own fighters aren't developing it is beyond me.

Nameless god: I see, I see…

Brunhilde: So I've developed a theory, and I believe it has something to do with the will of the average man and a push of limit. You see, the greatest human to live has already reached their greatest strength. There's nowhere else to grow and push for.

Nameless god: So what you're saying is that my fighters are evolving with each match?

Brunhilde: With what we know, that's our best bet. Though I do wonder if their own bodies can handle such a push for power…

The nameless god brought a hand to his chin, going into a moment of thought, only to immediately bump into some random woman.

Nameless god: Goodness, I'm sorry!

As he stumbled, the woman spoke up with a slightly panicked tone.

Woman: Ah, I-I don't mind at all…if you could help me, I'm trying to find my husband? He was one of your fighters and all. His name is Asbrand.

Nameless god: Oh, I've been looking for you! You Snaefrid right?

The woman nodded, perking up as her name was spoken.

Snaefrid: Yes, yes! Where might he be?

Nameless god: Don't worry, I'll bring you over! I'll catch you later, Brunhilde!

He grabbed Snaefrid's hand as he dragged her away from the arena stands and to the holding area, leaving Brunhilde with her own thoughts.

Back in the holding area, the door to Asbrand's room slides open to reveal his wife standing on the other side.

She smiled sweetly before walking over, taking a seat beside him.

Asbrand: Snaefrid, my dear…You don't look not a day different since I remember seeing you. Just as beautiful as the snow.

Snaefrid: Oh, Asbrand, you old flirt…

The nameless god couldn't help his own smile before shutting the door to give them privacy as he went to the next room. Already knowing it's that mad Scotsman, he covered his eyes in preparation.

Upon opening the door, a buckshot suddenly hits him across the face!

As a god, he isn't truly harmed by human weapons, but dammit it still hurts!

Nameless god: AGH!

His head reeled back, his body stumbling along with it, shaking his head before looking forward.

It was our very Highland Clansman, Fergus!

His body was covered top to bottom in bandaging, but namely, he was equipped with a nice leg prosthetic!

Fergus: Spot on shot!

He sat back down, just as bare as ever when not in any sort of combat.

Nameless god: Could've already warned me…And you got a prosthetic? You know we have the technology to simply give you a leg back, right?

Fergus: A gun in m'leg is way more useful! Nae shame in hidin’ a secret weapon if it means easier winnin'!

The nameless god approached, rubbing his sore forehead.

Nameless god: Everybody else is taking a break. Is there anybody you'd like to see while you heal?

Fergus: Aye, I had an ol’ drinkin’ buddy o'mine! Name is Baenard, hair as fiery as the sun! Cannae miss him, nae one bit!

The nameless god nodded, immediately rushing out of the room.

As the door closed, Fergus settled in his seat, before a sudden knock rang through the room.

Fergus: Gee, back already? C'mon in!

The door opened to reveal a tall, wiry blacksmith. Fergus seemed to recognize him immediately.

Fergus: Well I'll be, a god comin’ to see ol’ me?

This was a god shared in both Irish and Scottish folklore; Goibniu, the god of blacksmiths and hospitality.

Goibniu: I saw yer use of the dirk in yer fight. Fantastic work there. ‘Ere, I fashioned ye a new one, sure should keep you steady in yer next duel. Nothin’ of it's made with a godly steel so it's nae cheatin’.

Fergus: Dawww, fer me? Well fack off with it! M'own knife's a gift from me pops! Nae a'way I'm gettin’ rid o'it!

Goibniu simply nodded. He respected a man who held to what he was most familiar with, simply setting the freshly finished dirk on the table before him.

Goibniu: Consider it a gift then. Later, tumshie.

Fergus: Oy, who ye callin’ a tumshie, ye tumshie!

He grumbled as the god left before glancing at the dirk.

He thought for a moment…then grinned…

If one dirk got him here, imagine what using two could do…