uld urge you most solemnly to influence him in the Empire's
favor, to the point where he would leave his family to serve it.*

Medart frowned, sitting up. *If I can't tell him, why tell me? Who'll
stop us? How could one man's decision affect an entire universe? And,
most important, if you're who you claim, how come I sense anxiety from
you instead of hostility?*

*The last question first, then. This universe is going to be invaded
soon, by beings who frighten even me. If Odeon's decision is for the
Empire, that invasion will lead to the most life-destructive war in the
universe's history. If he decides for his family, instead of war there
will be simple massacre, which will include me and my demons. So I act
as I do out of pure self-interest. That also answers your first and
third questions. Knowing my identity, you should be able to tell me
who will stop us.*

*Assuming you are who you claim to be, it'd have to be the Creator.*

*Yes. While He--A, in your Omnist terms--wants the same choice we do,
Michael must be allowed his freedom. An odd concept, to me, but one He
insists on.*

*Mike's more than he seems, then. And that's got to be one rough
enemy, to have someone like you worried; even if you're not Satan,
you've got the strongest Talent I've ever felt. When's the invasion,
so I can tell His Majesty?*

Medart sensed amusement. *Your skepticism should anger me, James
Medart, but I find it refreshing instead. If Odeon makes the proper
decision, you will come to belief in the appropriate god at the
necessary time. It is indeed 'one rough enemy', but I am not allowed
to identify them to you further, and since the timing of numerous
incidents in the defense is crucial, I doubt you will be able to tell
anyone except Odeon any of this conversation. It is even possible
that, once the decision point is passed, my Adversary may edit some of
your memories to prevent inadvertent premature revelations.*

*I don't like that idea, but if you're right, I won't have any say in
the matter, so there's no point in worrying or complaining. What about
Mike?*

*I am not permitted to go into his background. I can, however, tell
you that, should he decide in favor of the Empire, the Protector will
give him Ranger-level abilities--including, if he chooses, the
necessary mind-set.*

*Umm.* Medart got out of bed and put on a robe. An invasion he
couldn't report, by an enemy that frightened someone as powerful