Hello everyone. At long last after delays, hiatus, and helping the family, this chapter is finally out. This will be a VERY long chapter. Lastly, I know there are grammar issues but don't let that stop you from reading the story. What do you think of it so far? What do you think will or should happen? Keep following to find out.
Chapter 7
The God of Thunder's first mission
He stood tall with the ruins of the town, its buildings crushed and streets littered with weapons, corpses, and blood. Yet despite all this, he smiled. He smiled because such a gruesome scene was prevented from continuing. The people who surrounded him clapped and cheered. For he was their savior.
Many lives were lost but many more were saved.
There was a tug on his sleeve. He looked down to see a little girl smiling at him.
"You're our hero!"
Yes. He thought as he sat her upon his shoulder while raising his mighty hammer high and released thunderbolts into the sky while the crowd applauded.
He was their hero.
Their savior.
Their protector.
He was their God of Thunder!
Thor's eyes open before shutting tightly from the sun's light hitting his face.
Why did he keep the window open last night and more importantly what was that dream he just had? Fantasizing about the heroic deeds he would perform. He smiled at the thought while turning his head away from the sun. Soon he would go out and protect the Realms. When his vision became clearer he noticed a blanket of silver. When he touched the silver blanket he felt it was very soft. Soft like...hair.
Hair!?
Wait a minute…I don't have a silver blanket in my room! This isn't even my room or bed! And there's only one girl I know who has hair this color!
Slowly sitting up to get a better view, he saw Rossweisse filling the empty space of the bed sleeping peacefully. Looking around he realized he wasn't in the palace. He was in Rossweisse's room! And more importantly in her bed!
Never in his eighteen years had he woken up with a woman in bed. How and when did this happen? He last recalled being out in Downtown and…
Downtown…
Of course, he was exploring the discount shops Rose visited before having a cheap, but enjoyable, dinner at a sandwich shop she always goes to with Sigrun, who he also remembered hearing had just returned from her mission.
He would have to ask her what happened in it and how it went.
Refocusing back to the night before, he recounted walking the streets after dinner until he noticed exhaustion start to overtake Rossweisse from her long hours on the job. Since he was taught about kindness from the Church, he chose to take the bodyguard of the Royal Family back to her home, despite her sleepy complaints of needing to protect the Allfather. By the time he reached her home, she was fast asleep.
Afterward, I planned to leave but crashed on her couch to rest for five minutes. I must have walked into her room while I slept...why?
Why indeed? What prompted him to sleep in Rose's bed?
The Thunder God listened to her gentle breathing. Maybe he should wake her up but if he did that still in her bed she would freak out and demand why he was still here. Maybe going to the couch or leaving was the better option. As quick and quiet as he could, Thor pulled the bed covers off and tried to make his way to the door.
"Hmmm…"
But he froze when she moaned and rolled over, the edge of her fingers brushing against him.
Her fingers are so soft…
Before he could remove himself from her room, aqua eyes slowly opened. He stared at her like a deer caught in a car's headlights and she stared back.
"Good morning…"
"Hmmm good morning Thor…" She mumbled before shutting her eyes.
3… 2… 1…
"THOR!"
He winced at her shriek as she covered herself in her blanket, her cheeks as red as his hair.
"W-why are you in my bed!? How did you even get here!? We….we didn't do anything lewd did we?"
Now Thor was blushing. What she was referring to… the action of intercourse was something Thor had zero experience in since it was rarely spoken about in the Church. Sure he saw many women of different shapes and sizes but they were all clothed. Not once had he seen a woman naked or thinking of intercourse.
But such thoughts had never occurred to him. However such thoughts would have filled his mind if Rossweisse was naked. Lucky for him she wasn't, which she noticed. This, however, didn't stop the bodyguard from fretting.
"Why didn't you take them off!? Now there wrinkled and have to be ironed!"
"I wasn't going to strip you! I'm not a pervert!" Thor yelled, his whole face red.
"I was talking about my jacket and shoes!" The silver-haired warrior corrected with puffed cheeks. The jacket was one thing but sleeping in shoes!? Who keeps those on while sleeping in a bed!? She watched Thor roll his eyes and walk out to the living room, shutting her bedroom door on the way out to give her privacy to change.
She threw the blankets off and stretched, feeling the pop of bones and relaxation of tense muscles. At least he isn't like his father. Still…doing naughty stuff with a boy like having him take off her clothes was something she dreamed of doing someday. Oh, how she wished to do naughty things with a boy. But such ideas would have to wait until she finally finds a boyfriend.
Out in the living room, Thor sat on the couch he tried to rest on the night before. Waiting for Rossweisse to freshen up.
"Well, that went better than expected. At least she didn't hit me." He thought out loud while looking around at the books on her shelves. Before his adventure into Downtown he spent the rest of the day reading the books she gave him which proved invaluable to his study in spell casting.
As he kept looking through the bookshelves, one caught his eye. It was the largest book the Valkyrie had in her possession, over a hundred pages had to be in it with how many he could see. There was no visible title on the spin meaning it had to be on the cover. Curious to see what the book was called and whatever knowledge was hidden away within its pages he took the book from the shelf and stared at the large golden letters on the cover.
The Beast: A mystery or real?
The Beast? What could that mean specifically? Fenrir? The World Serpent? Unable to hide his interest he opened the book to the first page.
Suddenly he heard the door opening and quickly returned the book back where he found it. But his mind couldn't stop thinking of the title. This Beast was obviously dangerous since this book written about it was so large.
"What were you doing?"
"Looking at the books you have."
"I think you mean looking at my essay."
Shit! She did see him with the book. Wait… did she say it was her essay? That whole book was her essay!? How long did it take her to complete and why wasn't it published?
"Rossweisse, what exactly is that thing? I've never heard of anything called The Beast and you clearly know something about it with how big this essay of yours is."
Rossweisse said nothing to his question. But he could tell she was hesitating to tell him what this Beast was. Would she tell him? Did she trust him with such information?
Before she could say anything there was a knock on the door.
Thor sighed. Saved by a visitor from answering the question. Perhaps in time she when she comes to trust him more she would tell him what she knows of The Beast. Sure he could ask the others what it was but there was something fun hearing Rose share her knowledge.
Which is why she'd make a good teacher, Thor thought with a smile.
Rossweisse rushed to the door and opened it. To her surprise, Sigrun was standing there. What was Brynhildir's goddaughter doing here?
"So the rumor is true. The Allfather's bodyguard IS sleeping with his son. I didn't know you were that daring, Rose." Sigrun said with a cheeky grin.
"T-that's not what happened!" Rossweisse yelled, blushing furiously at her best friend's question who laughed at her reaction. If there was one thing she knew Sigrun loved doing, it was teasing her.
"W-what are you doing here?" Thor asked, looking between the two Valkyries. He noticed if Sigrun didn't have violet hair and amber eyes along with braids, then she could be Rossweisse's twin.
"Can't your best friend come visit you? I heard you and Thor were seen walking the streets of Downtown together and spoke to Lord's Vidar and Loki."
"I-I was only showing Lord Thor the rest of Asgard on orders from the Queen."
"Oh really? Then why is our beloved lord in your apartment?"
"That was my fault. I fell asleep on her couch before I could return to the palace."
"Well since you are here, how about we all go out to breakfast?" The violet haired Valkyrie offered with a smile.
"I'd like to but I need to see the Allfather."
"Come on, Rose, you can take a day off from your duty to relax."
"Sigrun, I swore to protect the Allfather and his family. I cannot neglect this duty."
"Your duty," Sigrun said, brow narrowing slightly, "is not as a bodyguard but as a maid. He only needed you to take up that job so he could eye your body, just as he did with your grandmother. The Allfather has never come under threat, not since the time before Surtr invaded. Besides, that Fallen Angel's leader is always by the Allfather's side. As for his sons and wife," Her eyes flickered to Thor, "both are powerful in their own right. Only a fool would try to assassinate the Royal Family, which I need to remind you is impossible since the only way in and out of Asgard is through the Bifrost. So just take the day off and relax."
Rossweisse shifted uncomfortably at her friend's words. She wouldn't deny Sigrun's words, the Allfather's treatment of her wasn't pleasant but it was still her duty to protect him. Even if he orders her to do something ridiculous like grabbing his slippers or getting his morning coffee while he stares at her body. How could Freya allow such a thing!? He was her husband for Asgard's sake! If she was queen she would forebay Odin from looking at any woman less he wishes to feel her wrath.
"I agree, Sigrun," Thor said, trying to suppress his rising anger for Odin. It infuriated him that Asgard's rulers were nothing like the stories he read about, particularly with Odin. He wasn't just angry to know the God of Wisdom, King of the Aesir, the man who adopted him was a pervert, but embarrassed. How could his brothers put up with that? How could Freya allow such a thing? Speaking of Freya, she had spent much of Asgard's wealth to commemorate the warriors who fell in battle protecting Asgard against Surtur. Granted he couldn't blame her for doing so but she had played a part in Asgard's decline in power.
"Lord Thor-"
"And you don't need to call me Lord, Rossweisse. Just call me Thor." Seeing Rossweisse open her mouth he added, "I order you to just call me Thor."
She shut her mouth and sighed. If that was what he wished to be addressed as then so be it. If he wasn't a God she'd ask to be addressed as Rossweisse. She was the Allfather's bodyguard so such formality should be given to her, but it wasn't. Would she ever be called the Allfather's bodyguard? Would her title as the Valkyrie without a boyfriend ever be changed? She hoped it would.
"Hey how about you and Sigrun escort me to breakfast? Your duty is also to ensure the Allfather's family is safe right? So by doing this, you would still be following orders."
Rossweisse thought of God's words before sighing with a nod of agreement. Plus she could use this time to help Thor get to know more of Asgard while having a delicious breakfast in the process.
"We would be honored to escort the Allfather's son." Said Sigrun with a smile.
Asgard shopping district
Thor sighed in delight. He had just finished eating a breakfast he would never forget. Sigrun's suggestion of eating at The Gullinbursti Dinner was the right choice. It was the number one dinner in Asgard, serving food no realm or faction could match in taste. What made this visit even better, was the fact that all prices for him and the Valkyrie's were discounted because he was the Allfather's son. Despite ordering Rossweisse to not address him as lord, everyone else in Asgard did. Eventually, he would have to get used to it.
"And you were worried this place would be expensive, Rose," Sigrun said grinning.
"That's only because Lord...ok alright because Thor is with us." Retorted the silver-haired maiden, after sipping her drink.
"So Thor, tell us about yourself. What are your hobbies, where did you come from before coming to Asgard? How did you obtain Thor's powers?"
Thor glanced at Sigrun, her amber eyes filled with curiosity to know the God of Thunder. Was that a smart idea? Vidar said it was his choice to share with Asgard if he chose too and even if he did what could be shared? He had no memories about himself save for being trained as a weapon for the Church to use against the Devils. That didn't sound like quite a story to share just yet. Plus how would she react to such a story? What would happen when she learns he was affiliated with the Church? Would she distrust him and see him as an outsider for stealing the Thunder God's name and powers?
No, she wouldn't do that. She had shown kindness to him ever since he met her. That kindness had earned her his trust. Nevertheless, he still feared how she would take this information. Sitting around and thinking about it wasn't going to get him the answers.
"Well… since Rossweisse already knows I guess I could share my life with you but only if you swear to keep it secret and tell no one else." He said seriously.
Raising a violet brow curiously the Valkyrie nodded before leaning forward so that it would stay secret between the three of them.
Looking around to make sure nobody would listen in, he returned his attention back to Sigrun, "I...was once affiliated with the Church. Actually affiliated isn't the best word for it, I was their experiment. A test subject to be trained to fight against their enemies. As for why I have Thor's powers, I don't know? Even the Church didn't know? All they knew was that I had his powers and they gave me his name. Beyond that, I know nothing. I don't even know who my real parents are, or if I had any."
A long silence fell upon the trio with Rossweisse looking between them anxiously, wondering what her best friend would say to this. Then she saw the violet haired girl's expression shifted into a look of pity.
"I'm so sorry." She said, "Did Odin know what you were going through?"
"No. He only discovered me after...after…"
"After Heimdall sensed you unleashing a large amount of magic a week ago." Rossweisse answered, choosing to share her part in the discovery, "We found him unconscious within the ruins of a building belonging to the Church. He was lucky to be found by us, had we not saved him he would have died from blood loss."
Sigrun nodded, eyes still focused on the God of Thunder. While this news was surprising, it also filled her with sadness. A past shrouded in mystery with only the memories of being an experiment for the Christians. If she had known of this boy sooner she'd have gathered as many Valkyries as she could to rescue him and bring him back to Asgard. Screw trespassing onto enemy territory or possibly starting a war, Thor was not part of the Christians Faction. He is Aesir and if they wanted Thor back, they'll have to fight for him.
This did raise many questions, however. Like how they kept Thor hidden so long? If Odin did not know of this boy until now, did that mean Heaven's God was kept in the dark as well? Why would the Church want to use the powers of a God outside of their own Faction and more importantly how did they find Thor first?
"Oh, I forgot to ask you Sigrun. How was your mission? What happened?" Thor suddenly said, interrupting Sigrun's thoughts.
Sigrun shrugged, breasts bouncing slightly in her t-shirt. "Nothing special. Just a dispute between some clans in Jotunheim. It was settled peacefully thankfully"
"Jotunheim? I thought they were our enemies?"
"That used to be the case but after the fall of their Empire, some clans reached out to make peace with us and whenever they ask for help we give it to them. Even though we have access to the Nine Realms, the alliances we once had are gone. Nidavellir and Muspelheim are silent, Midgard and Jotunheim have been requesting help non-stop, and all we know of Alfheim is the news that Lord Freyr brings back since he is their ruler. Only Vanaheim is our friend now. Things have changed for the worst ever since Surtr's Invasion."
Thor shifted in his chair. He heard the old alliances were broken but it was much worse than he thought. Despite his anger towards Odin, he needed to talk to him about this situation and his goal of renewing the old alliances. Perhaps Odin would take this seriously and help him, he joined forces with Azazel's Faction to prompt peace and coexistence after all. If Asgard can do that with an outside Faction, they can do it once again with the other realms.
"Rose told me what your goal in life is." Sigrun said with a smile, "That's a very noble goal. Not many in Asgard wish to renew the old alliances with the other realms. But I think that will change once you start the renewal. I have a couple of suggestions on how to make your goal work. But let us worry about that later. Why don't you ask us something?"
Thor's face brightened at the chance to get to know his friends more, "Well since we are talking about the Realms and you are both Valkyries are you Vanir?"
"We are neither," Rossweisse answered, glad to change the topic to something she knew.
"What do you mean? I thought the Valkyries were Vanir because they serve Freya who is the Queen of the Valkyries."
"That was the case before the Aesir-Vanir war ended. Yes, the Valkyrie's once served Lady Freya but now their duty, our duty, is to Asgard."
"So are you Vanir are not?"
"No, we are not. The Aesir and Vanir are the tribes of gods in the Norse Pantheon. The Vanir are associated with nature, fertility, wisdom, and the ability to see the future and the Aesir are connected with strength, power, honor, and war. The Valkyries are half-gods. All beings below the Aesir and Vanir are half-gods. Before becoming allies with Asgard, all Valkyries were from Vanaheim.
"Now any woman, save for Einherjar, can become a Valkyrie." Thor added, "Vili told me you need the use of magic and a strong will to survive the training but you still both come from Vanaheim yes?" Thor pressed on, eager to know more about the Valkyries, about his friends.
"Rose is from Vanaheim. I'm from Asgard and have always wanted to become a Valkyrie after seeing them." Sigrun answered, "And let me tell you the training wasn't easy but Rose and I both survived. Before Rose became the Allfather's bodyguard, we took mission's together and always succeeded. Her brains and my strength made us an unstoppable pair."
Unstoppable indeed. Those two were the strongest Valkyrie youths in Asgard. Could their strength and skills help in his goal to renew alliances with the other realms? He had seen Rose's spellcasting and experienced Sigrun's swordsmanship first hand. Plus both were very smart in their own way. Maybe when this mission is done he could ask.
"Oh? How's your shoulder? Is it fully healed to continue your training?"
Thor looked at his right shoulder and rolled it, feeling no pain from the movement. Sigrun was right, in fact, Thor had been using his right hand the entire time. How had he not realized it this morning? Finally, now he could resume where he left off and improve his skills.
"That face says it is." She turned to her friend, "What do you say, Rose, how about we go help our Prince master the art of spell casting?"
Thor raised a brow at Sigrun. She was going to help him? He had never seen her use magic yet but if she was from Asgard, it probably wasn't on the same level as Rossweisse. Still, the more help he got with training the faster his skills will grow.
Valhalla training grounds
"It was an elemental spell that went like this. No, it matched up like this...connect it to this."
Thor stood tall at the training area alone, arms outstretched to practice spell casting. Sigrun and Rossweisse stood on the sidelines watching. Even though he was grateful they were here, the Valkyrie's pep talk about improving his skills himself had stayed in his mind and he was determined to accomplish that task. Now here he was thinking back to the lessons she taught him and tried formulating patterns together to form the spell he cast the last time. As he began picturing it in his mind, he saw a blue palm-sized magic circle with Nordic ruins on the edge flicker into appearance. Doubling his efforts, but not rushing them, Thor rearranged some patterns and a much larger circle appeared before it released a thunderbolt.
I've done it! I finally did my first spell!
The satisfied smile the God wore faded when the spell pierced the target dummy like a spear before crashing against the wall and going through that too! He immediately canceled the spell and dropped his arms.
"Oops…"
"Very impressive but this proves you need more training." Sigrun said with a proud smile, "The spell was perfect but you poured too much magic into it. Because of that, the effects of energy depletion will kick in soon."
Once again Sigrun was right, he could feel his energy slipping away rapidly. Rossweisse had warned him of this and he foolishly had done it. Next time he would make sure to pour the correct amount of magic into a spell before casting it.
"I've heard from Rose you are having trouble with spell casting. I can give you an alternate way to use magic until you're able to properly use spell casting." The violet haired girl offered.
Thor knew right away what she was going to show him. He was going to look into studying it the day he began training but had slipped his mind after the duel with Andrew. She was going to teach him how to imbue magic into Jarnbjorn.
Sigrun stepped forward and cleared her throat, "Everyone says spell casting is easier but if you ask me, magical weapons, or alchemy, as humans call it, is much easier. All you have to do is transfer magic into a weapon."
As soon as she said that the blade of her sword was engulfed in flames, leaving Thor in awe at the sight. He felt as if he was standing inside an oven or a burning building as sweat began to form on his brow at the intense heat. Despite this, he couldn't help being mesmerized by the beauty of it. The orange-red flames did not send embers into the air or fall below the hilt, it was like the fire was the blade itself! If Sigrun could do this with fire, what could she do with light or lightning!?
"Transfering magic into a weapon, any weapon can be pretty tricky unless you know what you are doing. It can be easy for some, like me, or difficult. Think of the weapon as your arm and the magic as blood, once you have successfully transferred it, make sure you keep the magic flowing in it steadily. Pour too much and you'll lose control." Sigrun explained as she extinguished the fire and returned her sword to her pocket dimension, a proud smile etched upon her face. "Now you try."
Thor nodded as he called forth Jarnbjorn. He had to thank Rossweisse for giving those books to him. From within the pages were spells and seals of different types, including how to store his weapon into a pocket dimension, which he perfected during his shoulder recovery. Gripped firmly within his hand, he called upon his magic and tried channeling it into the mighty axe. As he felt his magic flow into the weapon he saw sparks erupt from the head and soon bolts of thunder and lightning began coiling around the handle like snakes moving up a tree.
It was working! He just needed to put a little more and keep it steady and soon the axe began to vibrate as a yellow glow appeared around the axe's head. More magic flowed into the weapon before being released into the sky. Thor turned to the Valkyries, both standing in awe at what he just did.
"There you are!"
The trio turned to the voice and saw a woman approaching them. She was a year younger than they were with dark green hair tied into a single long braid and clad in yellow robes. This was Hlin, the maid of the Royal Family and, from what Thor heard, had a crush on Baldur. Thor always saw her attending the Royal Family but never interacted with them. By the sound of her reaction, she seemed to have been looking for them. Why though? What was her reason for doing so?
"I've been looking everywhere for you three. The Allfather wishes to see you all immediately."
Their gazes turned to one another this time. The Allfather wanted to see them?
"What does that aloof foo want?" Thor asked in an unfriendly tone.
The maid raised a brow at the prince before realizing what he was talking about. "Ah. I suppose you saw the Allfather's hobbies?" When Thor nodded she sighed, "Your Grace, I understand your anger about who you thought your father was but mark my words he is a powerful and wise man. He just rarely shows it. Someday you will see that wisdom." She reassured with a smile.
"I doubt that," Thor said to himself before following Hlin back to the Palace.
Palace throne room
Thor, Rossweisse, and Sigrun were standing at the feet of the stairs leading to the king and queen's thorns who sat upon them looking wise and powerful. Although wise wasn't the correct word for Odin though, the truth about him being a pervert still burned in his mind.
Taking his place beside the Allfather was Baraqiel, his face always set in that serious expansion never changing for a second. With them was a woman who Odin tried not to eye in front of his wife.
Despite the room's size, it was silent as a mouse. Not a sound was made, not even the artificial World Tree's branches creaked and groaned. And yet within this silence, there was a feeling of tranquility within the air, as if all negative feelings were being dissolved.
Could this be the Queen expressing her love through her magic? The smile she sent his way could be proof of it.
"Kneel." Odin commanded, waiting for them to do so before continuing, "Thor, your studies at Valhalla have been going smoothly from what Vili tells me. So has your training under Ms. Rossweisse. Your duel against the Einherjar has made you quite popular with the people of Asgard and shows you are a skilled fighter. These have made me decide that now is the time. Time for you to take your first mission as an Aesir to protect the realms."
The anger Thor felt was washed away, replaced with excitement at the Allfather's words. Finally, he would get to see the other Realms of the Norse Faction. To go and protect the Realms was a privilege any Aesir would be honored to do. His eyes flickered to his friends, both smiling proudly at his achievements.
Thor was about to speak but Odin raised a hand to keep him from interrupting, "This will not be an official mission. Rather, a test to prove if you truly are worthy to undertake the daunting tasks of protecting the Nine Realms just as the other Gods of Asgard have done for centuries. Hlin, give him the details."
The maid of Freya stepped forward and cleared her throat, "We have received prayers of help from Skjult Dal. Skjult Dal, is a town far away from civilization and the only one where everyone is a follower of our Faction. Whenever our believers pray for us, we answer them. What they require is unknown but we will not abandon them."
Thor stayed silent as he took in the information. So he was going back to Earth to help a town. Not the most exciting mission but at least he would get to experience travel through the Bifrost. The bridge that connected to all Nine Realms was said to be able to transport someone anywhere.
"Thor, are you ready for this task? Are you able to face this trial?" Odin asked, seriously.
Thor nodded, "I am. More than ever."
"If you succeed. Do you swear to protect the Realms from evil?"
"I swear."
"And do you swear to give your life to preserve that peace at a moment's notice without hesitation?"
"I swear!"
"Then go! Ready yourself and prove to Asgard that you are an Aesir!" The Allfather commanded.
"How exciting! You get to go on your first mission! Vandil will be so jealous when he hears about this!" Sigrun exclaimed, rising to her feet.
But Rossweisse wasn't smiling about this, she was looking at Thor with intense seriousness, "Thor, listen carefully. While I am happy that you are being given the privilege of taking the test, what you are doing is a trial many are not able to pass. Those known by humans are all who have taken the test and passed. When you pass the trial, not only will you be allowed to travel the realms but join our Pantheon when the Allfather feels you are ready. So you must make sure you pass this, otherwise, you will never be able to travel the realms."
Thor nodded, readying himself mentally for whatever this test was. Was he to hunt a dangerous beast? Save some people? Or was it something simple like help build a home? Whatever it was he would pass it and show he was the God of Thunder.
"So did you and Rossweisse pass the test?"
Sigrun smiled at the question, "We did. Rose was the first and not long after I passed as well. Before becoming the Allfather's bodyguard, we took mission's together and always succeeded. Her brains and my strength made us an unstoppable pair."
Unstoppable indeed. Those two were the strongest Valkyrie youths in Asgard. Could their strength and skills help in his goal to renew alliances with the other realms? He had seen Rose's spellcasting and experienced Sigrun's swordsmanship first hand. Plus both were very smart in their own way. Maybe when this mission is done he could ask.
He turned to Odin and said, "Will I be going alone?"
Odin chuckled at the question, "Of course not. You will be supervised and aided if you are in serious trouble. It was going to be Sigrun but since it was her idea to have my bodyguard skip out on her duty, I've decided for Rossweisse to accompany you while Sigrun will act as my substitute bodyguard until you return. Don't look so uncomfortable, Miss Sigrun, you get to experience Rossweisse position as, how did you phrase it, a maid."
Thor tried to stifle a laugh at seeing the Emerald Valkyrie's face go white at the Allfather's words while Rossweisse just shook her head. Sigrun should have known better than to fool the Allfather and now would pay the price for it by knowing what it's like to be in her shoes. Nevertheless, he wouldn't argue with that. Rossweisse was the strongest Valkyrie youth in Asgard, he couldn't feel any more secure with her watching his back.
Asgard outskirts.
After readying themselves for the coming mission, they were escorted out onto the Bifrost, the only way in and out of Asgard and to the other eight realms. Before its destruction by the Original Thor's sacrifice the bridge led far beyond Asgard's walls, all the way to Midgard. It was said by the followers of Norseism that whenever a rainbow appeared, it meant the God's had come to the mortals' word. Even though it was repaired, it now ended at a large building that filled in the once unfinished section of the wall.
The door opened and Thor felt as if he had just stepped into a hotel lobby. The domed shaped room was larger than it looked on the outside and its dark blue flooring had silver patterns on it. Standing at a desk beside opposite of them was a tall man clad from head to toe in golden armor who smiled when seeing the two. Thor knew right away who this was. Heimdall, the Guardian of Asgard who controlled the Bifrost and watched for any signs of trouble. It is he who the enemies of Aesir must get past in order to breach Asgard's walls.
"Welcome, Thor and Rossweisse." He said in a deep calm voice. "The Allfather tells me that you are going to Midgard."
"I am and when you are ready, you may start the Bifrost."
Thor watched Heimdall preparing for their departure to Midgard. His fingers danced along the keyboard before a large magic seal appeared beneath his and Rossweisse's feet.
"Good luck, Thor, may the Fates guide you to succession."
Light consumed Thor and soon felt himself falling - no- flying at the speed of light while the colors of the rainbow zooming by. Add the silver flow of Rossweisse hair into the mix and… well there was no other word to describe it… beautiful.
The Bifrost was truly beautiful.
And so is Rose…
Wait what!?
Before he could think of why he thought Rossweisse was beautiful, he felt his feet hit solid ground. The Bifrost disappeared and was replaced by a grassy field leading for miles towards enormous snow peaked mountains and a great forest. A herd of deer could be seen grazing in the meadow, some looking upon the two teenagers with curiosity. By the looks of the landscape and the name of the town they were going to help he was in Scandinavia, the subregion in Northern Europe.
Thor followed Rossweisse over a hill and saw Skjult Dal nestled away in a valley near a lake. The townsfolk must know about the Supernatural world since they landed so close to it and everybody was gathered and awaiting their arrival.
The two Aesir approached the civilians, all held hope in their eyes.
"They've arrived! The Aesir have arrived!" yelled a woman.
"Odin has heard our prayers! We are saved!" Shouted an elderly man.
Thor glanced at Rossweisse, but her serious composure didn't waver under the many looks the men gave her. She marched over to a muscular man with a bushy beard filled with many braids. "Mr. Aksel, it is good to see you once more. What's the problem this time?"
"It's Orcs. They have set up camp in the gorge and are raiding our farms and kidnapping anyone who ventures out of the town. Please, get rid of those animals whatever the coast and bring back our missing, if any are still alive…"
"We will return what you have lost and remove this problem. You have my word." Said Rossweisse, motioning for Thor to follow her. When they were out of sight, Rossweisse spoke to Thor, "Do you know how to fly?"
"No, but if we run we-"
"Have no time to run. The Flight spell is easy. Just concentrate your magic to your feet." As soon as she said that, the Valkyrie started floating.
The actions caused a second of excitement to fill Thor. Of course he would be excited to fly. If he knew how to fly he could have escaped the Church long before Asgard found him. Following her instructions, Thor began to feel himself leave the earth. If he wasn't on a mission he'd have been doing loop-de-loop's and barrel rolls.
"Well, that was easy. Well, Rossweisse, lead on."
And lead on she did. Until they could see the gorge Mr. Aksel spoke of. When they arrived at the gorge Thor landed on a patch of grass while giving one last look at Rossweisse who hovered above with crossed arms before proceeding down the rocks, eyes alert for any sign of the Orcs.
It didn't take long for the young God to find an opening in the gorge and the sound of screams coming from the entrance. That had to be the Orc camp… and those they had kidnapped. The closer he neared the cave mouth, the louder the screams grew. Those poor people… hearing their screams of agony...the laughter of pleasure from those Orc...from those animals… made his blood boil! Despite his desire to draw his axe and charge in to save the villagers, he would not let his feelings cloud his mind. Orc's were among the most hated species within the Supernatural world, ranked just above Fallen Angels. The reason why is besides being selfish and sinful like the Fallen and Devil's, Orcs are not to be taken lightly. The numerous wars they fought throughout the centuries have turned them into battle-hardened warriors and when faced in great numbers, make them very troublesome.
Before he could set foot in the cave, he could hear snickering all around him. So much for stealth, Thor thought as he saw Orcs brandishing bows and other crudely made weapons appear from behind rock formations. Some had brutish looks to them, others were out of shape and bald or balding with greasy grey skin glistened in the sunlight. By Odin's beard, they were disgusting to look at.
Drawing Jarnbjorn, Odin's son prepared himself for battle. Knowing that his foes surrounded him and would try getting the jump on him, Thor began moving into a position to have all his enemies in eyesight. That plan, however, was foiled when the Orcs rushed him at once while others began raining arrows upon him. Tensing his muscles for the fight, Thor lunged and made the first move by throwing his axe as fast and hard as he could at the closest archer. The great axe found its mark, burying itself into the Orc's skull. The sickening sound of flesh splitting and bone-cracking echoed through the gorge. One down… and whoever knows how many more to go.
Thor rushed the nearest Orc, disarmed him of his sword and followed up with a hard punch to the face. The power of the punch sent the Orc stumbling into the rocks, cracking his neck on a particularly large boulder. Two more came forth, both trying to flake his sides. One lunged with a spear while the other swung hard with a large spiked club. Being two steps ahead, Thor spun on his heels, allowing the gauntlet to take the brunt of the club and parry the spear with the Orc's sword he stole and follow up with a stab to the spearman's throat. The clubman pulled back to try again but Thor took the opportunity to slash at his knees. Before he could finish, the God was blindsided, sending him tumbling to the ground, losing the sword in the process.
Looking up, Thor found a very large Orc pinning him to the ground and holding a large rock over his head that he was about to use to smash his skull in. Throwing his arms forward, he caught the boulder and began a power struggle with the Orc to push him off, which was proving quite difficult. This was quite a strong Orc, if not the strongest of the group. With no weapon around him to grab and Jarnbjorn too far out of reach, Thor cast the spell he successfully performed back in the training arena. A thunderbolt blasted the rock, and the Orc's head, into nothingness. Free at last, the young God scrambled to his feet and not a moment too soon either. The same foe who had his knees slash tried to smash his head in again. With the training learned from his time in the Church, Thor expertly weaved around the attack and snapped the Orc's neck in seconds.
This was getting tedious, he had to get to those hostages before something happened to them. He rushed to where he last saw Jarnbjorn, dodging arrow fire as best he could till he retrieved it. Now armed again, he channeled his magic into the weapon and brought it crashing down to the earth with a mighty roar. Rocks shattered as a tremendous shockwave spread throughout the gorge, electrifying all it came in contact with, which just so happened to be all the Orcs. They howled in pain before dropping like leaves from a tree.
Damn it… I used too much magic! Rose is definitely going to scold me on that one but I had to end this swiftly. I have to save them!
Taking deep slow breaths to regain what energy he could, Thor marched into the cave, weapon ready and eyes alert for any traps or surprises he may encounter. The lanterns strung along the walls flickered ominously, there light being the only source of guidance through the cave.
Suddenly there came the sound of someone pleading up ahead, prompting him to double his pace. Finally reaching the end of the tunnel, he peeked out and spotted the Orc camp. It was stocked to the brim with food and weapons, obviously stolen from the village, and possibly other places. A large fire burned in the center and far off to the left where the captives, the state they were in was a sad sight to see.
They were chained to the walls like animals waiting to be slaughtered or trophies earned from a game. What clothing they had before being kidnapped was ripped to shreds, exposing cuts and bruises earned from the pain there captives endured upon them. One poor soul looked as if they were no older than thirteen and was on the verge of collapse. How long had these people been here!? What in the name of Helheim did these creatures put them through!?
Thor did not want to look to where the screaming was coming from but forced himself. He spotted a large Orc dragging a young girl, probably seventeen or eighteen by the looks of it, to the back of the cave with a face twisted into a sickening grin of pleasure while the girl screamed
This… has gone on long enough!
Stepping out of the shadows, Thor threw his axe with all the power he could muster and leaped into action before these fools could retaliate. As he charged another Orc who was about to indulge in a pile of food, Jarnbjorn slammed into the Orc dragging the girl, splitting his head and turning the earth red with blood.
Even though the girl shrieked in horror at the gruesome death she just saw she was nonetheless grateful to see someone come to save them. She watched the stranger bury his fist into another Orc's belly and retched it free with a hard twist. He threw his hand out and watched the axe he threw fly back to him and be used to cleave his the creature's head off. It wasn't long till he began a mass-slaughter upon the others. Despite their ferocity, none could harm him. He dodged, blocked, hacked, and swung with the skills of a seasoned warrior. When the last Orc fell, he made his way to her with the blood of his enemies dripping from the axe.
"Are you alright?" He asked gently, to which she nodded slowly at with tears in her eyes. She couldn't believe it. After enduring so much pain and praying so hard, the Allfather had heard her cries and sent her savior. Now she, and all those who also had been kidnapped could go home.
"LOOK OUT!"
Thor whirled around at the warning. His eyes widened in shock. Towering over the two was not an Orc, but a Troll! It roared before raising a large fist and swinging it with tremendous strength. Thor tried to counterattack but was sent flying across the cave, losing Jarnbjorn in the process, before slamming against the wall with a hard crash. Despite the armor taking most of the impact it still hurt.
Great…they have a Troll.
Another scream by the girl alerted Thor. The creature was upon her, its arm raised to pound her to dust.
"NO!"
Thor raised his hands to prepare a spell but his vision was too blurry. If he cast a spell now, he could accidentally hit the girl or the other civilians. Seeing no other choice, Thor sprinted full towards the Troll, sparks flickering around his fists.
"AAAARGH!"
His roar of defiance alerted the creature of his coming attack. The Troll answered his challenge with a roar of its own before throwing a punch at him. Thor responded with his own punch. The two attacks collided with a literal shockwave. Thor pulled his shield up to block the second punch but staggered at the strength behind it allowing the Troll to grab his arm his first attack collided with and slam him into the ground three times before throwing him onto the ceiling. As gravity pulled him down, Thor could see the Troll winding up a punch that would probably break his skull.
This Troll is no pushover, he's giving me quite the challenge!
And it was fun…
But he didn't have time to dilly dally with the troll. He had to end this and get these people home!
As the Troll threw its punch, Thor spun his body to counter with a dropkick. As the two attacks collided, Thor channeled all the magic he had and unleashed it in one powerful blast of thunder at the Troll's face. The beast roared in pain as it fell flat on its back with a loud thud.
"Catch!"
The girl had managed to pry his axe free of the Orc and threw it to him as best she could. With Jarnbjorn back in hand, Thor chopped into the beast's skull. Five times he chopped and five times the grotesque sound of flesh and bone getting torn and broken echoed through the cave. The Son of Odin stared at the Troll, it was dead at last and now these people were free. He withdrew his axe from its head, cleaned the blood off, and made his way to the girl, who was freeing the others.
"Thank you! By all that is good of Asgard, thank you!" An elderly man said, tears in his eyes.
"It's alright now. You're safe. All of… you..."
A loud groan of pain and anger was heard from behind. Turning on the spot, Thor's eyes widened as he watched the bloody faced Troll rise to his feet. How much more could that thing take!? He used all his magic in that spell and buried his axe into its head five times!?
The Troll roared loudly and all Thor could do was yell back, their combined shouts were like thunder to the hostage's ears. If they kept this up, their eardrums would burst. Thor readied himself for another smackdown as the Troll prepared to charge.
Suddenly a volley of magic bullets crashed into the Troll's back, followed by thunder, lightning, fire, and water. The bombardment of spells sent the Troll crashing face-first to the earth with a boom. Thor looked in the direction of the spells and spotted Rossweisse round the corner, hands alight with spell ruins.
Incredible! Truly incredible. Now he knew why Rossweisse was chosen as Odin's bodyguard and called the Strongest Valkyrie Youth. He had seen her skills in their magic training but to see it in a fight showed just how powerful she truly is. Her mastery of magic knew no bounds.
"It's over." The hostage sighed in relief while working on freeing another prisoner.
Yes… Thor though, it was finally over.
Skjult Dal
As promised, all hostages were rescued and returned safely to Skjult Dal. Families and lovers reunited at long last after what seemed like years of separation. In gratitude for Thor's success, Mr. Anker had chosen to throw a feast. It hadn't taken long to prepare the feast and even quick for everyone to be partying. Music filled the air for people to dance to.
Thor, however, wasn't attending the feast. It had been a long day for him and even though he wanted to go home and rest, he couldn't bring himself to ignore what he had done for these people. However, he didn't want to be among the bustling crowds and loud music yet. For now, he wanted peace and quiet, and he was given it on the banks of the lake while gazing up into the sky.
Still clad in his battered battle attire, Thor stared at the stars, there light twinkling in the sky and reflecting off the water. As a child, he would always stargaze whenever he could. Back then it was always from a room's window. Now he could look to the sky anytime without worrying about getting jumped by Exorcists.
"There you are."
Thor smiled. He didn't need to turn around to recognize that voice. She must have been looking all over for him. "Are you here to ensure I do not fall in the water and drown? Truly you are a dedicated bodyguard."
By the look on Rossweisse's face, he could see the joke fell flat. "Are you alright? You weren't at the feast."
"I'm fine." Thor reassured with a wave, "I just need time to myself. It's been a long day. I wasn't expecting the Orc's to have a troll with them. I thought their species never interacted with one another."
"On the contrary they do. Though it is very rare. The Orcs must have either made a pack or persuaded him to join them in their raids on Skjult Dal."
"Then whoever wrote that book on the creatures of Norse Myth was wrong." Snorted Thor, "I do hope this village isn't harassed anymore. Then again no Orc was left alive to tell the others to stay away."
"Unfortunately, Skjult Dal will always be a target for the creature of the Norse Myths. Luckily it only gets Orcs and Goblin. Very rarely do Troll's and Draugr terrorize the village."
Finally turning in her direction, he noticed she was wearing her business suit. She had to teach him how to change clothes through magic.
"So since I saved the people does that mean I pass the test?" Thor asked excitedly.
Rossweisse glanced passed Thor, spotting a raven perched atop one of the buildings watching them closely. A tiny smile spread across her lips. "Yes. I believe you did. Come, let us celebrate your passing of the test and return of the hostages."
Thor followed the Valkyrie back to the village, his eyes flickering to her every few minutes. He didn't want to seem like a pervert but she was so beautiful.
Beautiful… when he asked about beauty in the Church they said it is a combination of qualities, such as shape, color, or form that pleases the aesthetic senses, especially the sight. Did Rossweisse meet those qualities? In the Bifrost, her hair seemed to glow like the moon's lights. The way it stood out within the rainbow tunnel was quite captivating. Her aqua orbs held a sense of calm in them, just like the sea.
Yes...he thought with a smile while following her into the largest building in the village, yes she did meet those qualities.
The Great Hall of Skjult Dal was packed to the brim with town's people. All chatting and feasting together merrily. At the far end of the room, seated at the head of a magnificent long table with Mr. Anker and those who had been rescued from the Orcs. When he spotted the duo he rose to his feet, smiling while yelling, "Hail to Lord Thor and Lady Rossweisse! Rescuers of Skjult Dal's people!"
"Hail to Lord Thor and Lady Rossweisse" Roared the townsfolk joyously, toasting the Aesir for their accomplishment.
Neither Aesir flinched at the attention they were given, both being used to large crowds. But neither unsure of how to interact with the party.
"Come, my friends, join us!" Shouted a big burly man while shoving a mug into their hands. "Drink and enjoy the night!"
Rossweisse recoiling in disgust. She recognized the smell of alcohol. An action the man took notice of and laughed about.
"Haha! What's wrong lass? Can't stand the smell of alcohol!? What about you boy!? Can yee stomach the taste!?"
Rossweisse turned to Thor, preparing to tell him to not listen, only to watch the Son of Odin drink his mug.
"Lord Thor!"
Thor turned to the girl, her eyes wide and mouth hanging open in shock at him drinking. What is the problem? There are both eighteen, the legal drinking age plus is a party after all. Odin was right, she really needed to mellow out. Removing the glass from his lips, he grinned with amusement.
"Come on, Rossweisse, we saved these people. The least we could do is drink with them. One glass of alcohol won't kill us."
"It...It's not that! It's because-"
"It's cuz ya can't hold ya, liquor lass!?" Chuckled the burly man, after chugging his fifth beer, "And here I thought the Valkyrie of Asgard were stronger than mortals!? Your Valkyrie sisters must be disappointed in yee for not showing us mortals that you Aesir are better!"
Rossweisse's brow furrowed. Disappointed!? She graduated from college at fifteen! Became the strongest Valkyrie youth from her training and bodyguard to the Royal Family! How dare he say such a thing! Gripping her mug tightly in her hand, she raised it to her mouth and started to chug it which made all within the building raise their glass and cheer her on. Once finished she wiped the foam away with her sleeve exhaling heavily at all the liquid she swallowed.
Thor raised a brow at the girl. She drank that whole mug in one go! Impressive. Most impressive. Before he could join in on her chugging, the silver-haired warrior began to sway side to side, her eyes glazing over and cheeks turning very red.
"Uhh."
"Rossweisse?" He asked, lowering his mug.
"Hic...Thooooorrrr...I...hic...s-sheeee twhoooooo of whu."
Thor shot a glare at the man who goaded her into drinking. Who knew one glass would get her drunk so quickly. Perhaps now was time to go home.
"Mr. Anker, thank you for this feast but we really-hey!"
The Valkyrie grabbed Thor's ponytail and began to tug on it. "Hmm. Yah huur ish shoo shoft. It's like Wodin's..." She paused and was silent for a long moment before her brow furrowed, "Woooodin! Woodin is always googling yuung guurrls!"
He even browses the internet!? Freya is very casual with Odin's lecherous ways.
"Vhy dooo yaaahh have dah dwink? Vhy can't yahh be moower like yah mooowthur!? Shee neeevah dwinks!"
Thor shook his head and set his mug on the table. It was time to go home now. He took her hand to lead her outside but as soon as he did she collapsed to the floor. He sighed inwardly. It looks like he would be carrying her back home. He learned two valuable lessons today; Trolls are tough foes and Rossweisse is never allowed near any alcoholic beverage.
"Someone help me get her on my back."
It wasn't long till the God of Thunder was out of the Great Hall with a very drunk Valkyrie on his back who, despite being able to speak properly now, was rambling nonstop.
"You know what I think!?" The silver-haired warrior asked, a lopsided grin on her pretty face. "I think you should have fried that Troll! They make great food when fried! Hahaha!"
"Uh-huh."
"I also think you…should use your Thunder powers more! Light up the sky like fireworks! Make everything go boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"
"I'm sure you'd like that…"
"I also like you~"
Thor stopped just outside the town when he heard those words and looked back at the girl. Her face was full of amusement, like a child getting free candy. She…liked him? Of course, she did…they were friends after all but that didn't stop him from asking, "Why do you like me?"
Rossweisse adjusted herself to lay her head on his shoulder, her lips curling into a content smile. The effects of her chugging was starting to wear off but still lingered within her system.
"It's because you cared..."
Thor watched her eyes slowly close after giving her answer. Cared? She must be talking about when Andrew insulted and tried to hit her. It had to be then since there wasn't any other time he had stood up for her. He thought for a moment of what it was like in Rossweisse's position and could see why she would say that. Before meeting him, no man had ever done what he did for her. That was why Rossweisse liked him because he cared for her wellbeing.
"You're right Rose…" Thor whispered with a smile as the Bifrost opened to take them home, "I do care about you."