***Amor – Mortal World***

***Sharid***

“Gyaaaaa!” How can this be!? This stupid job! How could I have ever allowed myself to be convinced that this was a good idea? “Nyaaa! These stupid mortals! Why can’t I just kill them all and be done with it!?” Seria, I hate you!

I was charged with creating peace! So, why is my party preparing for the final battle of this war!?

Bobo, the god who is in charge of the demons on this world and who is on the same assignment as me, chuckles. “You sent them an omen that’s clearly meant for them to make peace, and they misinterpret it in the most horrendous of ways.”

“This is all your fault!” I poke my finger into his muscular chest. “If you hadn’t told the demon lord to draw back his troops, the stupid humans would have never thought that the demons are weakened. They are only attacking because they are thinking that they are about to win.”

The huge, red demon frowns and massages his chin while clicking his hooves. “If I remember correctly, it was a certain goddess who thought it to be a good idea if the demons showed the humans a gesture of good will.”

“Aaah!” I scream, knowing that he is right, but not wanting it to be true.

When I first visited this world, I was introduced to all of the local deities which included my ‘co-worker’ Bobo. He is a huge brute with long hooves instead of feet, curved horns, and muscles all over the place. To be honest, I think that he is trying to compensate for something with his appearance because I always sense an aura of illusion around him.

Besides, who truly wants to look like that? Gods like us could always change our appearance if we wanted to. All it takes is a little visit to a technological world to have your genes modded and, ~Tadaa!~, new you!

While Bobo is a little strange and a know-it-all, he actually turned out to be a pretty decent guy in the past one and half a years since we started working together.

I was glad when I learned that creating peace wasn’t my sole responsibility, but that there was one deity for each faction in this war, and that the two of us would be working together in an attempt to create peace.

The only issue was that the god who owns this world wants us to work from the shadows. He doesn’t want the mortals to be influenced by the knowledge that gods are a very real power.

This world has a big continent that is formed like an hourglass lying on its side.

The west is controlled by the Darkness Faction and the east is under the supervision of the Light Faction. The two sides are stuck in an endless and pretty nonsensical war. As far as I can tell, it started because of their ideologies, but by now it is only because one side did ‘this’, while the other side complains about their enemy doing ‘that’.

They are like little children!

Neither side is able to get the upper hand because the narrow land-bridge between them is a perfect geological barrier and their navies aren't strong enough to land somewhere on the shores of the other nation.

Even if one side is momentarily weakened it is very easy to defend because the land bridge is rife with fortresses after centuries of war.

The Light Faction is made up of humans, elves, fairies, and dwarves, while the Darkness Faction consists mostly of beastmen, demons, orcs, and goblins. Though the last two aren't as bad as the ones I know from my world. In this dimension, they have highly evolved societies and cities of their own.

First, Bobo and I tried to interfere just with small actions, but somehow everything we did went wrong.

For example, I found a super-strong trainer for the Light Faction’s Hero and ~convinced~ him to train the Hero, someone who I personally chose because of his kind heart and love for peace.

Then I organized a really strong weapon for him and had him learn everything about ethics from a peaceful monk. Afterwards, I had him gather a group of really strong allies.

But the moment my Hero started fighting in the war, an equally strong character named The Demon King appeared on the darkness faction's side. Bobo had copied my idea, trying to influence his own charges in a similar manner.

From there, everything went out of control.

Originally, I planned for the Light Faction to win and create peace, but now it got bloodier than ever because they didn't manage to defeat the Darkness Faction.

“Mmmh!” I stomp my foot into the empty air while floating above the soon to be newest battlefield between these stupid mortals. “If you hadn't countered my plan with your Demon King, the Light Faction would have already won!”

Bobo rolls his eyes and gestures at the stupid mortals. “Do you really think that they would have spared their enemies after winning the war? They may be called the Light Faction but they are as petty as any mortal can be. They would have gone on a killing spree through the undefended villages of the Darkness Faction, raping and pillaging to their heart’s content.”

“I would have made the Hero stop them,” I complain.

The god who is floating next to me rolls his eyes. “Your Hero is one man who isn’t even in charge of their armies. Do you really think that he could have stopped over two hundred thousand soldiers?”

“Gah!” I throw up my hands. “Then we have no choice but to use our final fail-safe if we want to get those Guildpoints!”

“I still think that it is a stupid idea,” Bobo grumbles. “My idea is better.”

“You can try that if my plan fails,” I reply sulkily.

“If it comes to that, will you finally go on that date with me, oh beautiful one?” Bobo asks with a smug grin on his face.

I roll my eyes. “I am sorry, but I am not into-” I wanted to say hooves, but I stop myself in time. Bobo is nice, but I don't dare to insult a powerful deity like him.

He shushes me. “Don't speak any further. I promise that I will be the perfect example of a proper gentleman.”

“Gah!” I click my tongue, knowing well enough that he won't stop flattering me once he gets like this. “Ask me again once this is over.”

My plan 'B' was to take action personally! Bobo and I created mortal personas for ourselves some time ago, hoping to use them to take direct influence on our chosen champions.

I chose to disguise myself as a wandering spellweaver and sage.

After some turmoil and tribulations, I managed to join the Hero's party as an on and off-again member.

From then on I tried to influence the Hero and his followers, hoping that they would become defenders of peace and righteousness.

Sadly, they didn't manage to persuade the rest of humanity into abandoning the war.

Descending onto the battlefield, I drop the Song of Confusion I was humming to divert the mortals' attention, becoming visible.

I land next to the Hero's party which is standing among the foremost column of the Light Faction's army, facing the Darkness Faction's troops.

“Sharid! You are back!” The Hero greets me, his face lighting up immediately. “You look really disturbed, Sharid, but don't worry! We will win this and create ever-lasting peace!” he tries to calm me. “And... And afterwards, I have to tell you something.”

I sigh, starting to get annoyed. How little does he know. “How often have I told you that there doesn't have to be a battle? You will get to talk to the leaders of the other side before the killing starts. Just negotiate a peace treaty before everything goes to hell!”

“Ah, we will try.”

Why does he sound like he isn't convinced that this will work out? Honestly, I am beginning to doubt his qualification for the job.

At least there will be one last negotiation attempt before the fighting starts. I will use that moment to reveal my true power. Then I will force them to sign that stupid peace treaty!

And if they decide to fight anyway, I will just have to ~crush~ them all! I know that revealing the existence of gods to the mortals will have a major impact on our reward, but I won't have that many deaths on my plate.

When a group of representatives detaches from the opposing army, I know that things are about to get interesting.

“Don't worry, comrades! We will do just fine.” The Hero smiles at the people surrounding him and starts marching, following our own group of representatives onto the open area between the two armies.

I count ten people in our ranks. The other consists of a group of demons and beastmen with an equal number. The group is led by the Demon King.

We already know him from previous battles.

And following him is a big, vile-looking, red demon, Bobo's alter ego. He is towering above all the others, his rippling muscles telling anyone that he is not to be messed with.

I involuntarily roll my eyes, thinking that he is overdoing it with his illusion magic. Probably he is some little imp beneath all that obfuscating magic of his.

As our groups reach a distance of about five meters, close enough to talk with each other, yet far enough away that it makes a surprise attack impossible, the demon king starts talking, “Surrender! If you don't, my army will crush you! The great warlord Bobo is on our side!”

“You have to surrender! The Goddess of Light will not bow to misguided creations like you!” the Hero follows in the Demon King's footsteps.

I try raising my voice, sensing that things are already going south, but the stupid mortals drown my voice with their shouts.

“No, you will disarm right this second!” “Why should we?” “You...” “No! You...”

“Noo! Guys, you have to be peaceful!” I call out, but they ignore me. “Smoke some weed and calm down!”

They continue to talk past each other, paying me no heed.

Why? I tried with all my might to give you people a proper world-view!

That's when my eyes wander to the big, red monster who is smirking at me. I can practically hear him saying: 'Told you so.'

He sighs and then allows his aura to radiate outwards.

So strong! I am not that good at reading auras yet, but I can sense that Bobo is even stronger than I ever imagined him to be.

Our eyes meet again and the demon looks down to the ground.

What is that? Is he embarrassed?

The mortals step back, their voices hushed.

“That's it, Bobo! Smite those heretics! There is no other way to deal with them!” The Demon King urges the big red demon forward and the people in our group take a step back – all aside from me.

They feel that the big, red one is dangerous. Eh!? Why am I suddenly in the front? Even the stupid Hero retreated! Coward!

The big, red monster comes forward and stands in front of me.

Uwah! So big! He never came up in my face like that.

I would never be able to beat this guy! Thankfully, there is a rule that gods aren't allowed to fight each other. And Bobo is a chill guy if he isn't playing his persona, so I am safe! ~Lucky!~

That's when Bobo suddenly decides to do the ultimately, most embarrassing thing that ever happened to me in my entire life!

The red monster falls onto one knee in front of me – which brings us only about head to head with each other! He is still slightly above eye-level with me!

Then he carefully takes my hand.

Huh? Isn't this a strange pose? “What are you thinking, Bobo! People are watching!” This certainly isn't the right place for this

“My goddess, I was struck by your beauty from the first moment when I laid my eyes upon you! Would you give this unworthy one the honour of a date?”

“Haaah?” Why does Bobo's voice suddenly sound so gentle and educated? This doesn't match his usual persona at all! He should go back to his usual, gruff tone! He needs a brutal and rough voice for that body of his!

“Just one date would be enough! I would give you anything! You are the only one for me. I felt it down to my bones when I saw you. I have been holding back for the past year, but no longer. I wouldn't be able to take it if our commission ends here with us simply parting ways. You, or nobody else in the multiverse!”

He sprouts a nonsensical confession right in the middle of a soon to be battlefield!

“Kuh!” I try to reply, but the words just don't come out of my mouth. I feel like spewing blood! Did my abilities go out of control? No, I don't think so. Ahem, let's think. I have to be diplomatic!

I want to refuse, but there are so many people watching! How could I possibly say no?

“Ah! I am so ~sorry~, Bobo, but I think that we don't really match. Of course, we could have a little date to learn more about each other, but you shouldn't put your hopes up too high. I doubt that anything would come of it.”

He laughs. “Oh! Of course! Where are my manners! To confess my feelings while being in disguise! That was just rude. I am sorry! Yet, the way you are treating me despite my appearance only reassures me that you are the right person for me.”

I only tried to be polite because you could stomp me with ease!

He playfully raises an eyebrow while holding onto my hand and tilts his head sideways, offering me his cheek. “Haven't you ever heard of the stories where the beautiful maiden kisses the beast and it transforms into a prince charming?”

“Bobo! You are killing me!” I whisper between clenched teeth and try to get my hand back, but his hold is firm and strong without hurting me.

Huffing, I decide to get it over with, giving him a quick peck on the cheek. Just a small one.

'Poof!'

With a small cloud of smoke, the red monster suddenly transforms into a really hot guy! He looks kind of familiar, but I decide that it must be the horns. Ever since I started paying regular visits to the Crystal City, I got used to different races and demon-kin, of which there are many in the Chimeran's place of power.

Uwaah! ~He is totally my type!~

And most importantly, I can't sense even a whiff of illusion magic. This seems to be his true appearance. Just why would a hot guy like him hide under the illusion of a monster like Bobo?

If it weren't for the horns and those menacing eyes, but he has gorgeous black hair and a neat face!

He is so cute, I think I can overlook the horns and the eyes.

“So, how about a date?” he asks with a smirk.

“But I have to bring my job here to a peaceful conclusion,” I try to return his attention to our task.

That, and everyone is watching us.

“No problem! I will wipe this world clean of those fools and then we can talk! I shouldn't take more than a few seconds!” He gets to his feet, apparently intent on going through with his plan.

“Whoa!” Now I am the one who is holding onto his hand. “Hold your horses, big guy! If we do that, all those people here will die!”

“Take your hands off of Sharid! You monster!” The Hero suddenly moves into action, making everything even more complicated.

“Bobo! Don't let yourself get bewitched by that vixen!” The Demon King steps also forward, trying to separate Bobo and me.

I almost see a vein popping on Bobo's forehead while he keeps a perfect smile on his face. He doesn't even look at them as he flicks his free hand in their general direction.

With a 'Whoosh!' a shock wave blows the Demon King and the Hero away, travelling outwards and throwing the soldiers of both armies to the ground. At the same time, a barrier appeared around Bobo and me, protecting us from being affected.

He is overdoing it! “Bobo!”

“Don't worry.”

The representatives were somehow able to take cover behind rocks, but Bobo isn't done.

Using a pathway, he teleports us high into the air so that we can see the whole battlefield. Then he waves his hand at both armies, teleporting everyone away, supposedly back to their base camps.

As a last dramatic measure, he points his finger towards the ground and with a gigantic explosion, everything goes white.

Then he turns his attention back towards me, totally ignoring the fact that we are encased in a cloud of dust and debris and that I am sweating buckets! He just casually teleported two whole armies away and then annihilated the land-bridge between the two factions.

Of course, given time, I could do the same, but I couldn't do it just by pointing a finger!

“Let me reintroduce myself again! My name is Aengus and I fell in love with you at first sight! I should have told you sooner, but I put it off again and again.”

Oh! This is becoming worse every time he has to repeat himself. “I guess I will let you choose the location for the first date?” I have to give him something.

His face lights up. “I know the perfect place!”

“Shaarriiiid!”

“Boobooo!”

I hear the faint voices of the Hero and Demon King in the distance, but they are drowned out by the rushing sea which is busily filling the crater which forms the new gap between the two landmasses, creating a wide canal which now separates the warring factions.

It was our go-to plan should everything else fail. With the line of fortresses on both sides intact and a huge canal separating them, offensive warfare is almost impossible. They can still use their ships to get across, but that's indefinitely harder than using a convenient land-bridge.

Then our surroundings change and I find myself sitting at a table with luxurious silverware. Aengus yet again used a pathway to take us away!

Confused, I look around, trying to find out where we are now.

Above us is a wonderful starlit sky and a strange broken moon that looks artificial. It's hanging above us and a belt of its fragments crosses from one side of the sky to the other, glittering while a constant shower of falling meteors lights the sky. It's a magnificent view! “What is this place? It is breathtaking!”

“I am happy that you like it, Sharid!” Aengus smiles at me and I feel myself turning red with embarrassment.

A waiter interrupts us and takes our orders.

Aengus takes charge of the food which gives me time to survey our surroundings, allowing me to realize that we are on an elevated platform that belongs to some kind of restaurant. There are other people around us, socializing with each other at their own tables.

Is everyone here a god? Most of them seem to be couples...

I smile at Aengus. “~So why don't you tell me a little about yourself? Apparently, Bobo isn't everything there is to know about you?~” If he is this aggressive with taking me on a date, he might as well spill the beans.

He clears his throat, looking suddenly a little embarrassed himself. “Everything you want to know, Sharid.”