At long last an update. My god, this has been such a hectic year for me guys. I'm still stuck doing substitute jobs and we, unfortunately, had two funerals this month and I'm going out of town next week. I really do need a vacation. Sorry if the title sounds weak I couldn't think of anything better. Anyway if you guys like this story share it with others and don't forget to like, follow, and review.
Chapter 16
Thor felt his hand tense. Now he knew why this man was so tall and strong, he was Heracles, the most famous demi-god and hero in Greece. Even though his studies focused on the Norse Faction, the other Pantheons were still a subject the Exorcist forced him to learn about in case he ever came face to face with them, and now he was. However, what knowledge he had on them was limited. He knew them by their names and titles like Sunsano God of Storms and Lugh God of the Sun but not how powerful they are.
The question that racked his brain was how did he do it? It couldn't have been magic since a circle is needed and he didn't see any appear but, as Rossweisse once said during a lecture, not all magic requires a visible formula to appear. So either he was using a technique without them or it must be one of the many special weapons God of the Bible gave to humans, a Sacred Gear. Its power was explosions but what was its name and did it have a Balance Breaker?
"Your fists seem to have a special knack for blowing things up."
Hercules laughed, "Well when you have a Sacred Gear that has those powers you most certainly can."
Thor's eyes lit up for a brief second, he had been right assuming it was a Sacred Gear. Humans, even hybrids, those with mixed blood from the Supernatural World, always obtain Sacred Gears. The only way a God could take a Gear is by stealing the human possessor's soul, a wicked act he recalled saving Alicia experiencing. Hopefully, the wielder of Jehovah's Horn was doing well, that poor girl losing her family like that. At least no more Fallen Angels are going rogue.
"So, Thor, care to tell me what happened?" Heracles asked.
"First let us return to Olympus and tell Zeus what happened. Those monsters mentioned knowing about the alliance between Asgard and Olympus. But...I don't know how to get back."
"That won't be a problem. Follow me."
Thor didn't show it but he was delighted the Hero knew the way back to Olympus. He had forgotten to ask the question to Eris yesterday. If Heracles wasn't here he'd have been stuck on the slopes of the kingdom waiting for someone to come look for him.
"So, I assume you are here for the talks?" Thor asked, choosing to strike up a conversation with Zeus' son."
"Of course. When word reached that Olympus was going to join forces with Asgard I couldn't ignore the call. I have to be here to hear what the terms will be and give my voice of opinion."
"And what is your opinion?"
"I agree!" The Hero answered with a wide grin, "Peace is a goal we must strive to achieve."
Hearing Heracles was of the same mindset brought a smile to Thor. The more people who want peace the faster it can be reached. Before he could continue the conversation he noticed a tiny clearing with four columns up ahead, the only way in and out of Olympus via teleportation. The only way into the kingdom was knowing the right formula for the portal to open and lucky for him Eris was kind enough to tell him. Ten seconds later he was back on Olympus with Heracles beside him.
"There you are!"
The first person to greet him was none other than Andrew. The Einherjar must have been searching for him, hence the relief expression he showed.
"What happened? You look like you got into trouble and who is this?"
"I was attacked while taking a stroll. Lucky Heracles saved me."
Andrew did a double-take at the large man who grinned broadly at him. The legendary hero he was always told stories about looked exactly how he pictured him; tall and covered in muscles. Thousands of questions began flooding his mind as excitement rose within him. The Einherjar was truly grateful to Freya for allowing him to come to Olympus.
"H-H-Heracles! It's an honor to meet you! My name is Andreas Mandrapiilias! I've heard so much about you! You are the hero I've always looked up to!"
Heracles roared with laughter again at the Einherjar's words, "I'm glad to know my presence is still known in Greece. But why are you not dressed as the other servants?
"Uhm… due to an unfortunate event I died and became an Einherjar, a warrior of Asgard. I am here on orders of Asgard's queen to help ensure peace is secured between our two Factions."
Thor knew the Einherjar wasn't partaking in the talks but he would not ruin meeting his greatest idol. Even though he just met him Thor had more respect for Heracles than Odin. He wasn't a pervert like the Allfather, at least he hoped so anyway.
"Ah. Then if you are from Asgard you should tell the stories about me in your great hall Valhalla! Tell me, what's it like over there?"
"A Lot better than here." Said a familiar mischievous Goddess.
"Well if it isn't Eris! How delightful to see you again." Greeted Thor to the Goddess of Chaos as she floated towards them, her red eyes twinkling as if she had a plan to cause trouble. He still didn't forget her lie about the bathhouses, a discussion he would bring up later.
"And you as well. You look like someone just attacked you."
"Unfortunately I was." Eris gasped, "it's fine. I'm ok."
"But what if someone did kill you? Oh, I should have warned you about the monsters. How far out did you go?"
"Close to the slopes."
Eris's brow connected, "This is not good. Usually, monster attacks happen in the countryside or cities. There has never been an attack this close to Olympus since the Titan Wars."
Concerned looks were exchanged between the Asgardian representatives. Would this happen again if anyone left Olympus? Was tension going to arise from the attack? What would Zeus do about this issue? They would find out soon enough.
Throne room
"What troubles you, my love?"
The great throne room where the Mighty Twelve dwelled upon Olympus was quiet today. Only the king and queen of the Greek Gods and the commander of the Valkyries and Odin's bodyguard dwelled within the massive dome building. Zeus slumped within his chair while Hera sipped from her goblet. Usually, Zeus was glowing, sometimes literally, with joy but today that joyful attitude was not present.
"It is this peace talk with Asgard." Sighed Zeus after a moment of silence, "I may be king but you know the others always argue whenever we discuss something serious. More importantly, who will attend this important talk? Apollo and Aphrodite agree but who else will be there?"
"I will!"
Zeus looked up and felt a jolt of joy rise within his heart. Entering the room were Thor and Andrew led by a warrior he hadn't seen in years. Rising from his chair he approached the tall man with open arms.
"Heracles!" He exclaimed, embracing him as he did so, "It's so wonderful to see you back on Olympus, my son."
As the hero returned the hug, though not with as much affection as Zeus, he said, "I'm not your son."
"You may be the current inheritor of my son's spirit, you are still my son."
Thor felt his chest tighten at Zeus' words. He didn't understand this spirit inheritor thing but the fact that he still saw him as his son moved him. Odin called him his son back in the Treasure Vault and Sigrun said to call him father despite being adopted. Yet how could he call him father, when all the God of Knowledge showed, was a lust for women? He could not -no- he would not acknowledge Odin as his father until he showed the wisdom he was known for.
"I see the sons have met at last but why are they in armor and why do you look like you've been attacked, Odinson?" Hera asked after taking another sip of her wine.
"Because I was attacking, milady."
An uncomfortable silence filled the room at that announcement. Thor recounted the tale with Heracles backing up his story with nods and sharing his own experience. When he finished, Hera and Zeus exchanged concerned looks at the ambush on Olympus slopes. Behind the Gods, Andrew shifted as he wondered what Zeus would do since they disbanded the army.
"What's going on here? Who's he and what happened to Thor?" The firmed voice commander of the Valkyrie's asked as she stepped into the room flanked by Helmwige and Grimgerde. Soon she too was told of what happened this morning and when the tale was finished gave orders to have the Valkyries sweep the perimeter around Olympus in teams of two and to be changed every hour. As they departed she turned her attention to Zeus asking, "The only way they would know of the talks is if someone on Olympus let it slip or you have a traitor within your midst."
"Lady Brynhildr, that is absurd." Said Zeus dismissively, "Not one, God or Hero, has ever betrayed Olympus. As for how they know, I told Tython to share this news with the monsters of Greece. I know they would not agree to this but trying to prevent it is highly unlikely. This group that ambushed Thor clearly were some of those who disagreed and thought it would be smart to try killing him, a mistake they paid in blood. The talks will commence, Asgard and Olympus will be allies."
Thor noticed Andrew shift uncomfortably at the king's words, the Einherjar didn't like the king's response to the situation, nor did he. Eris said an attack like this hasn't happened since the Titans ruled the land. Those monsters who disagreed with this peace talk couldn't be the only ones, who else disagreed? Perhaps Tython secretly did not agree with Zeus and sent those monsters to attack him? Could he possibly be plotting to lead an attack?
"Even so, I wish to have my Valkyries act as security until we depart to Asgard."
"Your concern is understandable, Lady Brynhildr. You may do so. Ensuring security is wise when trouble arises." Hera said before Zeus could speak.
The blue-haired warrior thanked the queen and departed. When the room was emptied once more, Hera scowled at her husband. "I love you to the stars and beyond but you must realize something like this mustn't be looked over so lightly. I do not doubt that this attack was deliberate and it's related to-"
"We will address that problem at the talks. Those who do not live on Olympus must be told as well." Interrupted Zeus sternly
Hera shook her head. Zeus may be the king but she was the wisest of all the Gods. The Talks were tomorrow but anything could happen at that time. The only thing the Queen of Olympus hoped would happen was the beginning of a friendship between Asgard and Olympus."
Asgard
Odin grumbled, today was not a good day. Without his bodyguard to fetch his slippers and refill his coffee the Allfather had to do it himself. Next was a meeting regarding the future for Asgard, a topic where Loki and Freyr almost came to blows due to the mischievous Jotun complaining one more time that alliances outside the Nine Realms are pointless. Not long after the meeting's conclusion, Brynhildr calls saying Greek monsters attacked Thor, and Zeus waved it off as nothing. Odin refused to let his anger show at the news of his son being attacked, Freya on the other hand…
"Is he ok? What did they do to him? Why hasn't Zeus tended to my baby!?"
"He is fine, Lady Freya. All he has are a few bruises. Nothing serious." Brynhildr said stoically. When the queen's worries subsided she addressed Odin, "Allfather, what do you suggest?"
"Do as you have planned. Ensure the Valkyries are on a tight patrol all day and night. Keep me updated."
Brynhildr bowed and the image faded. The throne room fell into nearly dead silence save for the shuffling of Odin's feet. At last, Odin spoke his thoughts aloud. Only Freya, his dearest Frigga, was allowed to know what bothered him.
"Disbanding the Olympian Army will cost Zeus dearly if an attack occurs. Gods we may be but even God's can fall. Should a human with mastery over one of the thirteen Longinus-class Sacred Gear decide to attack Olympus, they will be in serious trouble."
"Trouble our son can handle, my husband." Retorted Freya as she placed her hand over Odin's.
Odin smiled but behind it was concern he did not want Freya to see. How strong Thor was he did not know but what he did know was if he couldn't lift Mjolnir he would be no match for a Longinus Sacred Gear wielder, less he is stronger or on par with the Sacred Gear wielder. He hoped beyond hope that the Fates would guide him towards the strength needed to wield the hammer.
Meanwhile
"You don't sound happy." Said Thor when he heard Eris snorted, her mood soured by Zeus waving off the problem. He had strolled down one of the many corridors with her after departing the throne room and found himself in one of the many plazas. It was larger than the others and had a giant marble fountain of Poseidon set in the middle.
"Of course I am. Typical of Zeus to ignore a situation until it escalates. This isn't the first time he has ignored a problem either. One time Ares tried starting a war between the Centaurs and Minotaurs and Zeus did nothing to stop him until Athena stepped in at the last minute. Another incident was when a wizard was terrorizing Greece and Zeus only got involved when he bewitched Talos to destroy Crete, the wizard was stopped but at the cost of the bronze giant. An attack on Olympus is a situation that shouldn't be ignored."
Thor glanced at the grumpy woman. Hera was the wisest on Olympus but was Zeus that bad a king? Sure Odin was a pervert but even he wouldn't allow a situation to get out of hand. He recalled Vidar telling him that if an incident occurred in Asgard the kingdom would be put on high alert until it was dealt with.
"I wish I had been born in your kingdom. It sounds so much better than Olympus. A thriving city, a standing army to defend it, and two wise rulers."
"Olympus has amazing bathhouses." Said Thor, "I could relax in those every day if I could."
"Surrounded by beautiful women."
Thor glared at the giggling Goddess. He hadn't forgotten about that incident. When he brought up that subject the Goddess only laughed more.
"Don't you remember? I am the Goddess of Chaos and causing mischief is what I love doing. I do regret not joining you. Aphrodite says you're well built with quite a package."
Astonishment and embarrassment flooded the redhead's mind as Eris traced circles on his chest. First, the girls at Valhalla Academy, now Aphrodite and Eris, did the Original Thor attract women like this as well? She drew closer till they were nose to nose with one another, sultry red eyes stared at surprised blue ones. What was she gonna seduce him, kiss him, try to strip him naked? What would the Valkyries do if they saw this?
There was a loud cough and both teens realized Herakles was still standing next to them. The giant hero was obviously forgotten about when Eris went on about her rant and flirting. Or had this been another one of Eris's attempts to cause mischief?
"If you're done sharing what Aphrodite saw in the bathhouse, I'd like to ask Thor a question." He said, turning to face Thor directly, "You are regarded among the top ten strongest beings and said to have been reincarnated after your duel to the death against Surtr. I wish to face you in combat, Thunder. I want to face the Mighty Thor of Asgard!"
Thor stared back at Herakles, a muscle twitching in his upper lip. The Strongest Hero of Greece was asked to spar with him? How could he not decline such a challenge, he reveled in facing the big man. This would definitely make up for missing the chance to fight Sigrun and Rossweisse. Accepting the offer the trio started off to Olympus arena.
Olympus Slopes
"Anything?"
"Aside from the trees, rocks, and dirt? Nothing."
After Herja and Alruna finished their patrol it was Rota and Sigrun's turn. Neither was looking forward to it but they had their orders. They, like their fellow warrior sisters, flew the skies around Mount Olympus scanning the forest floor for any Greek monsters lurking in the woods. Yet all they saw were birds, rabbits, squirrels, and other normal animals, nothing mythological could be seen for miles around. Rota had chosen to do one last sweep of the area before setting down beside the Emerald Valkyrie.
"I truly hope this incident won't become something worse. Andreas is getting worried an attack could come at any moment."
Sigurn glowered at Rota, now she was calling the Einherjar by his Greek name? How close was she to him, why was she even showing him kindness? He didn't deserve it.
Rota frowned in return, "Why don't you care?"
"Why do you?"
"Because I'm willing to give him a chance to redeem himself. He has apologized for his actions. Lady Freya and Rossweisse have accepted it, you should as well. He died for a noble cause and I know he will show his valor if we ever face anyone in Olympus which I hope we do not. If it does maybe you will forgive him since you did say you will if he does something. Actions do speak louder than words."
Sigrun looked away, unable to meet her friend's gaze. She had said apologizing wasn't enough for her and she meant it. She, like many others in Asgard, felt words alone could not mend a situation so easily. The offender had to do something worthy to allow their regret to be accepted again. After he performed something worthy for her, the Einherjar would be forgiven, what that was she didn't know yet.
"Is it more than redemption? Do you like him?"
Rota smiled, "Of course I like him. He's a nice guy once you get to know him, Sigrun."
"Romantically?"
"Nothing is going on between us, Ms. Matchmaker," Rota said with a chuckle. She knew Sigrun loved romance and would always try to find a perfect match for those seeking love in Asgard. "Why not try that on Rossweisse? It's obvious she has a thing for the Prince."
That brought a smile to Sigrun's face, "And I hope it's not just for his hammer"
They laughed remembering the incident last night. Thor's towel sliding off to reveal everything was quite a sight to behold. From the time of Thor's arrival Sigrun had watched Rose send quick glances towards him, this was proof enough that something was stirring within her best friend's heart and she intended to help her.
"Too bad Thor didn't take any prisoners. Otherwise, we would know why they attacked. I mean we already know why. Thor said they didn't want peace between Asgard and Olympus. However, I have a hunch it's more than just our alliance."
Rota cast a sideways glance at Sigrun. "You can't really mean they want to destroy Olympus? That's impossible. The Titans were the only ones powerful enough to match the Olympian Gods in strength and power. They'd need all the Longinus-class Sacred Gears or one of the Hindu Gods to do something like that."
"I know. So why did simple monsters try to do this instead? Also, isn't it strange for Heracles to just suddenly appear and help Thor? We were not told he would arrive for the peace talks, which are supposed to happen tomorrow. I don't trust him."
"Maybe he wanted to keep it a surprise or just heard about it at the last minute?"
"Maybe…" The Emerald Valkyrie muttered, the rest of her words trailing off into her thoughts If only Rossweisse was able to use her family's power…
After an hour of resting and one more sweep of the area, they returned to Olympus to allow the next patrol to begin. Upon returning, however, they were told a spar between the Son of Zeus and Son of Odin would be happening in the Olympic Arena. Not wanting to miss the fight and keep an eye on him, Sigrun made a b-line towards the arena, the sound of cheering heard as she approached. Looks like it started already. Stepping out into the stands she was greeted by the sound of servants whooping and clapping excitedly their gazes focused on the arena.
In the arena she saw Thor duck beneath a swing by Herakles and counter with an uppercut, the silver-haired Hero quickly leaning back, the edge of the armguard inches away from his face. Grabbing the God's wrist, Heracles threw him across the field as if he were a ball. As the red-head flew towards the wall he twisted his body to let his feet absorb the impact and upon touching it bent his legs to launch himself back towards Zeus' son. Seeing as he would not make it all the way and gravity began to pull him towards the ground he rolled the rest of the way and would have jumped back onto his feet if Heracles didn't throw a punch his way. The young God was forced to cross his arms over his face to protect against the Hero's attack, he could feel it rattle his bones.
"Even without his Sacred Gear, Heracles is a powerhouse."
"Heracles' title as the Strongest Son of Zeus isn't just for show, Rota. He didn't complete the Twelve Labours with just his wits. Strength is just as important as brains."
"And brains allow you to overcome a tough challenge."
Hearing Rossweisse's voice, Sigrun scanned the crowd and saw her best friend sitting a few seats away with Rota and the Einherjar. Of course, she was, Rossweisse had forgiven the former human and was making time to spend with him before the Peace Talks began tomorrow. At least they were getting along. Once she forgives him, which will someday happen, she too will speak to him as an equal.
Turning her focus back to the spar, she watched Thor roll to the side of another punch from the Hero. As he did Sigrun saw him scoop sand into his hand and toss it into Heracles' face, blinding the giant human for a moment. Thor took the opportunity to rush the hero and use his full body to crash into him, sending them toppling to the ground. Dust kicked up as the Hero hit the ground with a tremendous boom. More dust went flying into the air as the two fighters began a power struggle on the dirt, rolling around like kids fighting over a toy.
"Go, Thor!" She cheered, as Thor managed to hit Heracles in the face before being thrown off the demi-god. This was way better than his duel against the Einherjar. Hopefully, Thor will win.
"Do you really think he'll win?"
Sigrun failed to hide her surprise when Eris approached her, hips swaying with each step taken towards the Valkyrie.
"Of course he will. Thor is a God."
"He is struggling against Heracles."
"You mean he is holding his own against Heracles."
That put a pause on Eris' next words. The violet-haired Valkyrie wasn't wrong. Despite Heracles brute strength, Thor was managing to slip around the hulking man's attacks and score a few hits of his own. Even so one would prevail and she hoped it would be her fellow Greek.
As Heracles raised his foot for a not so gentle stomp, Thor managed to dive behind the Hero and kicked the human's leg out before jumping onto his back and trying to choke him out. Hercules tried throwing him off but the Aesir just tightened his grip. Sigrun yelled and clapped loudly as the tenacity Thor's showed to win. Their raw strength and love for battle were not the only things Asgard was known for; their determination to win burned brighter than Alfheims light. And Thor was determined to win.
For three minutes Thor held on before both combatants began to tire. Their energy was drained by the ferocity of the attack they threw at each other. Until at last Thor let go and fell off the Hero's back who in turn collapsed to his knees, both panting for air. The arena was quiet at the outcome of the spar, a few scattered claps here and there could be heard by the onlookers but the rest were silent. Neither Sigurn nor Eris imagined it ending in a draw.
"Well…" said Sigrun flashing an amused look at the Goddess of Chaos who sighed.
"I guess we both lost."
"You mean win," Sigrun said grinning.
"I guess so. If battle happens we will be glad to have aid from the God of Thunder. "They also seem to be getting along well."
"Thor and Heracles?"
"No. Andreas and Rota. I swear I see them together everywhere I go. The times I've spoken to him show he is a good man."
Sigrun hid her disappointment behind a curious face. There it was again, the topic about the Einherjar. She quickly glanced to where he sat, he was gone and so was Rossweisse. Was this the workings of the Fates trying to make her speak to him? Did accepting his apology be all she really needed to do?
Maybe I should try…
Meanwhile
A few seats away, Rossweisse, Andrew, and Rota spoke about the match.
"That was quite a show. I wasn't expecting it to end in a draw."
"Nor did I." Added Rossweisse, "I will not lie, Andrew, I thought Heracles would win. Thor is strong but he still has a long way to go. Even though this was a spar I saw him struggle at certain points in the match. When we return to Asgard I'm going to double down on his training."
The Einherjar stared at the Valkyrie, she thought Heracles would win the fight? She wasn't rooting for the crowned prince?
"Rossweisse, I think you are over worrying about this. It was just a friendly spar. Hercules was pulling his punches, he wasn't using his Sacred Gear nor trying to kill Thor." Said Rota.
"Even so I intend to help the Prince grow stronger. Especially if he is going to be king."
Andrew couldn't help but smile. She was adamant in her goal to help Thor Odinson. To be fair, she is his bodyguard, magic teacher, and something more if what Rota said is true.
"What he does I hope to stand by his side as his loyal Einherjar." The look on the Valkyries face was quite a sight. "I told him how I joined Asgard. He looked at me with pity and said I was brave for what I did for my sister. I hope… I hope to see them again someday. If Lady Freya will allow it."
Rota smiled, it was good to know Thor forgave him. Now it was Sigrun's turn yet knowing how stubborn she was with traditions, who knows how long that will take. Hopefully, it will happen soon.
"You apologized for your actions and have tried opening up to us. I have no doubt she will." She said reassuringly.
Later
As final preparations were being made for the peace talk, Thor strolled the plaza with Sigrun. She was giving her opinion of the fight and what he could have done better in. While not as smart as Rossweisse, Thor did not argue or complain for he knew any piece of wisdom would help.
"Tomorrow is the big day." Said Thor once the Valkyrie finished and a long silence fell between them, "Are you nervous?"
"Not at all." The Emerald Valkyrie said confidently, "When the king, queen, and princes cannot attend a peace talk, it is Lady Brynhildr or me who represents Asgard. Being my godmother, Lady Brynhildr trained me personally in negotiation skills. Plus with you being here and drawing so much attention will succeed in the peace talks."
"How have I drawn attention?" Said Thor with great surprise.
"Because people are talking saying you cheated death and fought me to a draw."
"Heracles. Eris." The Valkyrie greeted the Hero and Goddess. She had seen these two with Thor around Olympus many times. This couldn't be just out of a growing friendship, it has to be for something else.
"Your attacks were impressive, Odinson. You were able to meet me blow for blow. I hope we can spar again." Heracles said.
Thor grinned, "I hope so too. Once the peace talks are completed, we can have another one."
"Oh ho? So eager to fight again, are we? Your lust for battle is high." Sigrun laughed.
"Really? I guess I am more like the original Thor than I thought."
"Original?" Repeated Eris.
"It's nothing," Thor said, but his quick reply only piqued the Goddess' interest more.
Rossweisse asked him not to talk about his affiliation to the Church. However, as he said, it would eventually come to light and Asgard would learn the truth so why not tell their allies about himself? Eris showed him kindness and Heracles saved him this morning.
I'm sorry Rose...
"I'm not the real God of Thunder. Thor, the Original Thor, died centuries ago protecting Asgard against Surtr. I was a servant -no- a slave to the Church. Trained to be a superweapon for them to use against their enemies. However… that's all I remember. I have gaps in my memories but after being adopted by Odin and Freya, strange things have been happening. I dreamed I saved a village, I recalled a memory of being caught up in a three-way struggle between Devils, Fallen Angels, and Exorcists over me. I had a flash memory of remembering Lady Sif but I never met her until joining Asgard. Odin doesn't have the answers and the Church refused to answer any question I asked. I have so many questions and the one I want to answer the most is who am I?
The question was met with silence. Neither Goddess nor Valkyrie spoke up, only exchanging glances to each other. They didn't know what to say to this news, Sigrun knew of his affiliation to the Church but the dreams she had no knowledge of.
Suddenly Heracles broke the silence. "Perhaps you are the holder of the Original Thor's spirit just as I am the Original Hercules spirit holder."
Thor looked up at the Hero, could a human inherit a God's soul? Heracles was a demi-god but a true god?
"You may be right…" Said Thor, uncertainty in his voice. Holding the Original Thor's spirit could be a possibility why he looks like Thor and has his powers. He would have to ask this to Odin.
Heracles clapped Thor on the shoulder, giving another of his big smiles, "You'll make a fine God, Son of Odin, and a great hero to your people."