The next several moves Atlas would make against Dusk were made with one purpose, to gain the attention of Gods.
The Gods that normally followed Atlas were those who only sought "entertainment." Back then, when he was on the 11th Floor, [Treacherous Phoenix] personally told him so.
'I thought all Gods were the same, but that isn't the case. Actually, sponsoring Ascenders brings them many benefits and even aids their cultivation. Most Gods are searching for Ascenders they can use.'
It was demeaning to an Ascender to be a tool for a God's cultivation, but that kind of perception went away when the God provided several benefits in return. This kind of mutually beneficial relationship was one of the foundations of the Tower.
