First off thank you all for your condolences for my grandma's passing I truly appreciate it.
Thor x Rose fan: I am still working on them
Guest-Questioner Of course it's a beach episode. Did the beach and girls in bikinis not give that away lol.
Terror: thank you for the condolences, yes the summit will happen soon. I'm glad you enjoyed the development between Thor and Rose.
Valtazar: Yes it was fun giving more characters development
Optimus470: thank you
Lindor: Thank you I'm glad you are enjoying the story.
Lorenzo Macchiavelli: Oh my, my condolences to your grandma. A slice-of-life beach chapter is what everybody needs after preventing a war.
Thor raised his hands erecting a barrier just in time to block the incoming spear its golden tip failing to pierce the magic shield, Thor's foe nodded with satisfaction before lowering his weapon and stepping back. Two days passed since the vacation to Alfheim and Thor was in the training yards of Valhalla sparing against the Greek Einehrjar Andreas, the reason being a conversation they had recently about attacking and defending with Thor stating offense is the best defense while Andreas countered saying that defense is the best offense; stand your ground and let the enemy wear themselves out before counterattacking. He had a good point but his opinion most likely came from his training as a Hoplite, nevertheless, Thor was grateful for this topic since his only usage of a barrier spell had been during the attack on Olympus where it nearly failed against Eris' onslaught. Thor's mind filled with anger briefly at the memory of the hybrid Fallen Angel, the last time he saw the traitor was at Kuoh standing alongside another traitor to Olympus, Ares, the God of War, plotting and failing to start a war. No doubt they were with the Khaos Brigade planning another scheme.
"Let's go again," Andreas said lunging at Thor who erected another barrier, this time, however, Andreas tried to strike Thor with his shield who countered by expanding the barrier in time to block the second attack, "Good! You are a fast learner, Lord Thor."
"Those books Rose gave me have been very helpful."
"She's been of great help to you ever since you arrived in Asgard. Oh, we have company."
Thor followed his gaze and saw Hlin glide into the arena, whenever she appeared it meant Freya requested someone's presence. The green-haired maiden bowed and spoke in her usual gentle tone, "Lady Freya requests to see you both."
If the queen wishes to see them both it had to be important, what that reason was they knew not but had a feeling of exactly it may be. Their theory was answered upon entering the throne room to see they were not the only ones attending, Rossweisse, Sigrun, Azrael, and Henrietta stood before the Goddess of love who sat on her golden throne. With all these familiar faces here they immediately knew what the Queen of the Valkyries, Thor's mother, wished to speak to them about.
"It is good to see you are here at last my son." Said Freya, her green eyes sweeping over the gathered warriors who partook in the battle in Kuoh, "I'm sure you all are aware of why I called you here but I will tell you anyway. Yesterday Sirzechs contacted us saying Heaven shall join us for the peace summit. It will be held at Kuoh Academy in three days."
About time, Thor thought as a flash of anger passed through him. At long last, the realm of the Angels opened its pearly gates to speak to their mortal enemies about peace and coexistence. The fact that it was happening so soon meant they were serious about unity.
"Sigrun, Rossweisse, I told you both will attend as bodyguards for myself and Thor. As for the rest of you, if you wish to attend-"
"We do!" Henrietta interrupted, "Azrael and I partook in this mission. We must attend and give our report at the summit."
"And you, Andreas? What say you? Do you wish to attend?" Freya asked the younger Einherjar.
"I…I do not know." He said, "I had just returned from Olympus and when I heard what was happening I volunteered to help."
"An action I am proud of you doing. If you wish to go or not is up to you. I will not force you."
"I…I just need more time to think on this."
"Choose quickly. The summit will happen in three days. Go and ready yourselves."
"I can't believe Heaven is finally going to talk to us," Sigrun said.
"Yes. It is good they made their choice. Hopefully, this peace summit will be better than the last one." The attack on Olympus replaying in Rossweisse's mind, the death of Rota in that dreadful battle was never forgotten by her or Andreas.
Thor meanwhile was dwelling on meeting whoever would represent Heaven, probably Micheal since Kokabiel said he was now in charge of the Angels. Old questions started bubbling to the surface of his mind. Did the Angels know about the pain he and Kiba when through and if so why didn't they stop them? Why didn't they save Asia from ex-communication? Did Irina, Xenovia, and Nero get excommunicated for learning about God and losing a fellow Exorcist and Holy Sword?
"He still won't talk to me."
"He needs time to himself. You chose to say the wrong words to him."
Thor stopped in his walk, two familiar voices could be heard from within a room the double doors slightly ajar to allow visibility into it. Curious Thor peaked inside to see Azazel slumped forward on a couch, head in his hands with a look he never thought to see on the Fallen Angel's face, remorse. Standing beside him was his fellow Cadre and Odin's second bodyguard and Akeno's father, Baraqiel, the stoic warrior's attention was solely focused upon his leader and he did not notice Thor. The last time he saw Akeno's father was before the festival begin, where he had gone was anyone's guess but most assume it was to keep Grigori organized while the Excaibur crisis was happening. The revelation of Akeno being his daughter came flooding back to the forefront of his mind prompting him to ask what caused her to have a fallout with her kin.
Before he could Azazel spoke again, "I suppose your right but he has been living the life of a human. Maybe you should talk to him. You married a wonderful human woman so you probably will understand him more than me."
"You are his father. You must be the one to reach out to him."
"The same can be said about you and Akeno."
If Baraqiel was hurt by his friend's words he did not show it, "She made her choice. She wants nothing to do with me. Not after what happened…"
"I know…but you should put some effort into reconnecting with your daughter since you want me to do the same with my son or maybe our children can help one another? They are both hybrids. Come to think of it every hybrid seems to have a problem with their father. Akeno, Azrael, and Eris."
"Your son gave up his humanity by erasing his mother's memories. Akeno and Eris-"
"Lost their mothers." Both men turned to find Thor entering the room with a look of pity on his face, "Eris was right, Akeno IS like her; she lost her mother, you lost your wife."
"You know it's rude to eavesdrop on personal conversations," Azazel said, "But I guess there's no point in hiding it. Yes, Akeno lost her mother but we are not going to tell you how it happened. It's a touchy subject for Baraqiel."
"And because whatever happened caused Akeno to hate her Fallen Angel heritage and become Rias' queen right?"
Baraqiel stared at the God of Thunder his face unreadable to the Aesir, "You are correct… from a certain point of view."
"Did it involve-"
"I think that's enough." Azazel said, "It's rude to ask about someone's past. Especially when it's a sensitive topic, you should get ready to return to Kuoh. The summit is happening there."
"Yeah…where your daughter is living," Thor said, eyes still locked on Baraqiel, he didn't know what happened in Akeno's past and nobody wanted to share it.
"Thor?" Henrietta called, the Einherjar peeking into the room surprised to see the God staring down the Cadre's, "What are you doing here? Come on we gotta get packing for Kuoh."
Baraqieul watched Thor leave with the blonde before letting out a low sigh, he understood the boy's reasons but nobody could help Akeno; not him, not Thor, and probably not even the Gremory were able to. Akeno would also hate him and Fallen Angels nothing would change that.
Kuoh
Rias Gremory stood beside peerage and family, today the representatives of Asgard would be arriving but who it was she did not know; it may be Odin or one of his sons. Due to it being the middle of the day, the Bifrost needed to be used more subtly, hence the reason they all were gathered in her office in the old school building. At last, a magic circle appeared on the floor, it was light blue in color with runes on it and soon Thor Odinson flanked by Rossweisse and Sigrun appeared, the young Aesir sent a friendly smile her way. A fourth being was with them and Rias had to admit was very beautiful to look upon, long sky blue hair cascaded down her back while green eyes swept over the gathered Devils with a gentle gaze, her matching sky blue gown did little to hide her curves that she was certain Issei was trying not to look upon for fear of Thor's fury.
Zeoticus Gremory stepped forward and kissed the woman's hand, "My lady, it's so good to see you again. Your beauty is as radiant as it was a thousand years ago."
The woman laughed, "You always had a way with words, Lord Gremory. It's no wonder Venelana fell in love with you even if it was an arraigned marriage." She turned her gaze to the others, "Lord Lucifer, Lady Lucifuge, it's a pleasure to see you again and this must be your little sister, Rias Gremory. I am pleased to meet you at last. My son Thor has told me you are a wonderful person and a good leader."
Rias blushed and upon hearing Thor be called son by the woman she realized who was standing before her, a woman who she secretly admired for the tales she heard about. Freya, Queen of the Valkyries, Goddess of Love, and mother of Thor Odinson. Drawing herself to her full height Rias said, "It's a great honor to meet the Queen of the Valkyries. I was not aware you knew my family."
"We've met before. Long ago before you were born but that's a tale for another time." She directed her attention to Sirzechs, "I suppose you all will be attending the summit?"
"Not I." Zeoticus answered, "I must see family matters in the Underworld. My son, daughter, and Grayfia shall represent the Gremory family."
"Represent the Gremory family? I thought that young lady Serafall was the one responsible for foreign affairs."
"She is but I couldn't miss the opportunity to see my sister during observation day! She was-" The clearing of Grayfia's voice interrupted him, "Ah. My other reason was to see my son's rescuer again."
"My. My. Has that tale spread so quickly within the Underworld?"
"It certainly has. On behalf of the Gremory family, I thank you, Lord Thor, for saving my grandson." Zeoticus said outstretching his hand for Thor to shake.
"Thanks. I couldn't sit by and help a child be hurt."
"Thor!" Vandill grabbed Thor's forearm in a tight grip grinning enthusiastically at seeing his old friend again, "Feels like ages!"
"It's only been two weeks, Vandill. How is your new life?'
"Very different from Asgard. School is less exciting and there are no training areas or Valhalla. Living like a human is so boring but fighting Strays is much more exciting."
"Who is she? She's got enormous tits!"
"That," Kiba said, praying Thor did not hear the pervert, "Is Thor's mother and I hope you don't need a reminder of what he will do to you if you keep staring at her."
That alone was enough for Issei to straight up and keep his eyes off her chest, being hit by wooden swords was one thing but facing the wrath of the God of Thunder was completely different. Still…his mom was hot.
"I fear we may need a bigger room with who will be in attendance for the summit," Freya said.
"Not at all, the room we've chosen has more than enough to have everyone there."
"I hope so. My son's team will be joining us and while our reinforcements arrived late I still vouch that they should partake in this summit to give their account of the events and let their voice be heard in this peace summit."
Sirzechs smiled, "Wise as always, Lady Freya. Azazel gave us the report of what happened I'm sure we may be able to have them attend without being there physically."
Freya smiled, "Now that I'd like to see. Anyway, how are affairs within the Underworld…"
"Come. Come." Vandill said dragging Thor over to the Peerage, "You haven't forgotten about your new friends have you?"
Of course, he didn't, these Devils had shown him much kindness in the little time he spent among them and saved his friend's life. Thor's gaze swept over the young Devils and fell upon Akeno, the hybrid was smiling as always but Thor could tell she was uncomfortable by the slight shifting of her feet and adjusting of hands, was she still shocked about Eris, or was it something else? Azrael wasn't around so what was troubling her?
"Ehp!"
Turning his gaze to Koneko, Thor saw a tuft of platinum blonde hair hiding behind her and a hand gripping her shoulder.
"I see you've noticed my first Bishop." Said Rias, "Asia became my second Bishop. This…is my first who I had to keep locked up until now due to…well, I will explain it later. Gasper? Do you wanna say hello?"
Slowly, timidly, the tuft of blonde hair moved behind Koneko and a pair of pink eyes peeked out before quickly ducking back. So the Bishop's name was Gasper, seems to be the same age as Koneko, and was shy. Guess he'd have to take it easy on the child. Lowering himself to eye level with Koneko he spoke in a gentle tone, "Gasper? It's ok. You don't need to be afraid. I am Thor Odinsom. It's very nice to meet you."
"Y-y-y-you….you…you are that big scary guy aren't you!? I saw what you did to that evil angel from the window!" Squeaked the voice of Gasper.
Thor couldn't stop the chuckle from slipping past his lips, "I know I can be scary sometimes but, Gasper, that evil Fallen Angel hurt someone I care about." The brief glance towards Rossweisse was not unnoticed by the Rias or Akneo, "I won't hurt you. I am a friend. I did save your master."
"It's true, Gasper. He saved us all. You don't have to be afraid of him. He's our friend." Rias added with the tone of a mother soothing their child, hoping her own words would help the little boy.
"W-who are you? You're not a Devil are you?"
"I am Thor Odinson." Thor repeated kindly, he knew getting angry at a child would not help the situation, "I am a God. The God of Thunder and the Son of Odin. You must know who we are right?"
"Gods!? W-why are you here!?"
"They are here to be our friends, Gasper." Rias reassured, "Come out from behind Koneko and introduce yourself. Nobody will hurt you, I promise."
Slowly, hesitantly, Gasper moved out from behind Koneko into full view for all to see. To Thor's surprise, the boy had pointed ears and was wearing the female uniform of Kuoh Academy. Two questions came to mind, was he an Elf or a Vampire and why was he wearing the female uniform?
"Uhm….Uhm…I…" Fear filled the boy's eyes as they flickered left to right seeing new and old faces staring at him. Suddenly they began to glow and vanished from sight.
"Woah!" Gasped Sigrun.
"He vanished!" Exclaimed Thor.
"What just happened?" Rossweisse asked.
Rias sighed, "I'm sorry about that. My Bishop, Gasper Vladi, is very shy and cannot control his powers."
"Those I can understand but care to explain why he's wearing female clothes? Is he...you know...?" The Emerald Valkyrie started to question.
"Of course not, Sigrun! Just because he's wearing female clothes doesn't mean he's like that. No, he just prefers the fashion," Vandill answered, "And if that is what he likes then so be it. I have no issues."
"I do. I thought he was a girl."
"That's because you think with your dick." Koneko's words had the Perverted Red Dragon sulking.
"Will go find him. Come on Issei." Said the Giant trooping out with a still sulking Issei in search of the Bishop.
"Rias, how about you give our guest a tour around the school?" Zeoticus said to his daughter.
Ten minutes later
Sigrun and Rossweisse were walking one of the many halls of the new school building following Rias who volunteered to guide the Valkyries. With no battle to occupy them, the warrior maidens could look around at the architecture with Sigrun commenting how it reminded her of Valhalla Academy. Her words peaking Rias' interest in the school in Asgard.
"I remember Thor talking about the kingdom but I didn't know the great hall of Valhalla had an academy as well."
"In the old days, it was a hall for Einherjar to feast and fight at until an academy was built in the 11th century. Since then it's been the mix of a feasting hall and an education system."
"And Asgard itself?"
"Why ask us so many questions? Your brother went to Asgard you could ask him yourself."
Rias scowled, "I'm not sure if the God of Thunder hasn't told you but my relationship with my family is complicated at the moment."
"Is that so? Perhaps instead of asking what our kingdom is like we can invite you to a feast in Valhalla after the peace summit?" The glint of excitement in Rias' eyes made the violet-haired warrior smirk. Being given a tour of Asgard was a treat the redhead was looking forward to, "I heard someone named Serafall represents your foreign affairs. Why is your brother here?"
Rias groaned, "Let's just say older siblings tend to be annoying. Lucifer is my brother and Leviathan is Sona's sister."
"So if Lady Leviathan is in charge of foreign politics what does Lord Lucifer do? If I recall the Underworld has four Satans. Lucifer, Leviathan, Beelzebub, and Asmodeus."
"Your information is correct Ms. Rossweisse. The four strongest Devil clans, Lucifer, Leviathan, Beelzebub, and Asmodeus ruled the Underworld with great power but, like God, the Four Satan's died in the Great War. I'm sure you recall hearing that in the battle against Kokabiel. Anyway, not long after the Great War, we Devils had ourselves a short but devastating civil war fought between the original Satan families, who wished to control humanity and continue the war, and the Anti-Satan faction. Since the fall of the old Satan families, their names, Lucifer, Leviathan, Beelzebub, and Asmodeus are held as titles for the strongest Satan and each one occupies an important role to maintain order over the Underworld. You already know Lucifer deals with domestic affairs and Leviathan handles foreign affairs. What you don't know is Asmodeus commands all of the Military Affairs while Beelzebub is head of the Technology Department."
"And those Satans were formerly the heirs of their respected house; Gremory, Sitri, Glasya-Labolas, and Astaroth."
"You really have done your research on our people."
Rossweisse smiled, "If we are to be allies we should learn more about each other."
"Like your hair braiding. Isn't it that whenever you win a battle you are given a braid? I see Thor has a second one. Is this from the recent battle?"
Sigrun grinned, "Of course. He was after all the one to defeat Kokabiel. All Vali did was-"
"Vali?" Repeated Rias, her eyes narrowing, "Is that host of the White Dragon Emperor's name? You know he confronted Issei outside the gates of the school yesterday."
"He did?"
Sigrun rolled her eyes, "Why do you act so surprised Rose? You know as well as I do that the Heavenly Dragons have always had a bitter rivalry with one another. I'm sorry to say this, Rias, but if Issei fights Vali, he's doomed. He has no talent except stripping a woman's clothing and that failed miserably against the Amazons. He needs to learn real techniques."
Rias chewed the inside of her lip before saying with some reluctance, "I do admit after what happened against Kokabiel I am convinced none of us are strong enough to face whatever may come next. Vali beat Kokabiel without even trying. Even Thor, a God, was struggling against him. He only beat him because his power was divided."
"That's why he's been training nonstop since that battle. He wants to grow stronger to defeat his opponents."
Rias turned her gaze to Rossweisse, "Is that because he couldn't save you or because of what Ares' said to him?"
Rossweisse's brows narrowed slightly, "Both. He was devastated he wasn't able to save me. How would you feel if you weren't able to save Issei?"
Of course, Rias knew how Thor felt. She had watched Issei struggle to keep fighting for her against Riser in the Rating Game and yet neither she, Issei, nor the rest of the Peerage even tried to train themselves after that fight. All they did was live like normal humans which was the whole reason for moving to Japan in the first place; Rias Gremory wanted to live the life of a normal teenager not as a noble heiress. Sure a Stray Devil would need to be exterminated or a client requesting her service once in a while however after fighting a Cadre Fallen Angel as well as demi-goddesses, Rias realized her dream to live as a human was fading and her duty as a noble heiress was needing more attention.
"I hope once this Peace Summit is over my Peerage can really begin to focus more on training. We need to grow stronger to face whatever comes next."
"Well if I know Vandill that jolly Giant is always training. He has and never will stop his training. Even in Asgard, he would be in the training arena's swinging his hammer or practicing hand-to-hand combat."
"Because your people are warriors and you always must ensure your skills are sharp. His life has changed to that of a Devil."
"And yet as you say he still finds time to train. Vandill may be a Devil but at heart, he will always be a warrior."
"I suppose your right. Anyway, let me show you the library."
Meanwhile in the gym
"And this is where the Physical Education takes place or at least use to be. Our P.E. teacher retired the month before Issei joined the Peerage and it's been very difficult to find someone to fill that role."
"If Ms. Berg was your P.E teacher she'd give you all hell. She's the P.E teacher of Valhalla and boy does she take it seriously."
Kiba chuckled nervously at Thor's words guess that explains why the woman had so many muscles. Still, it was good to know she was on their side, her skills in the battle proved vital in stalling the enemy until reinforcements arrived. He would never forget how easily she took down five of Hades' dogs with just a sword and her bare hands or going toe-to-toe against one of Ares' Amazon daughters. The Einherjar of Valhalla were renowned warriors and being able to witness it firsthand was a site Kiba would cherish forever.
"Lord-"
"Please, just call me Thor."
"I wanna thank you for helping me with my problem with the Excalibur's. All my life I wanted to destroy them but you showed me it wasn't the swords I should be angry at, but Valper, and now that he's dead all that anger I had is now gone. I feel that my friends have been avenged and my soul is finally at peace. Whatever danger we face next know that as a weapon for the Gremory family I will have your back."
"As a weapon for the Gremory family?" Thor repeated.
Kiba hesitated for a moment then said, "Sorry. Ever since acquiring my Balance Breaker, I've considered myself as a weapon but President Gremory had a long talk with me about how I shouldn't just be a weapon but a Knight for her family and a man."
"And she is correct, Yuuto Kiba." Thor agreed with his fellow redhead, "You have a great power to use to protect your friends. To protect your family. Do not look at yourself as a weapon but as a man and Knight in service to the Gremory house. You are a skillful swordsman with a kind heart and, to be brutally honest, the looks to catch the eye of any girl, be it human or supernatural world."
Thor's cheeky wink had Kiba struggling to keep himself from chuckling, yes the girls of Kuoh always flocked to him for his dashing looks but he would never take them up on any offer. He did not see himself as a romantic but as a tool to be used for his savior, Rias Gremory but it was Rias Gremory who told him to be a man, not a weapon. If there was one thing Rias was good at it was inspiring people with rousing speeches and she had done that very thing for Kiba, to hear her tell him those things had roused him to do such. Whenever he looked into a mirror he would from now on see himself not as Yuuto Kiba the weapon but as Yuuto Kiba the Knight of Rias Gremory. The man who achieved balance between holy and demonic powers.
"So how are you handling Vandill?" Thor asked after exploring the gym.
The question couldn't keep a smile from spreading across the blonde's face, "If there is one way to describe him then he is a literal walking ball of sunshine. Everywhere he goes he shows kindness to everyone and cracks jokes to bring laughter to the school. I saw him once quell a dispute between the Kendo club and Issei's friends. And I always find him training with Koneko, he's even taught her a few moves on your Norse martial arts."
"Glima?" Thor asked, his tone curious and excited, so Baldur wasn't the only one teaching him Glima. He hadn't kept watch on the little Rook in the battle but was certain she could throw a punch since she had the Rook strength. With Vandill teaching her Glima she would be even more of a challenge to foes who come her way.
"So, who exactly is Gasper? He's clearly very shy but how did he come into Rias' service?"
Kiba's smile saddened, "Gasper Vladi comes from the Vladi clan in Romania. He's a Dhampir; a union between a human and a vampire which allows him to walk in the sun. To come straight to the point he was killed by vampire hunters and the President rescued him, as she did to me, Issei, and Vandill. Unfortunately, he isn't able to control his Sacred Gear and was forced to be sealed away. The president said after releasing Gasper that if he had better control he could have been of great help against Kokabiel."
"So he too has a Sacred Gear? Rias seems to have a talent with finding Sacred Gears, especially in men who are at death's door."
Whether that was a joke or not Kiba did not laugh but Thor was correct in saying the president had a knack for finding Sacred Gear possessors. He, Gasper, Issei, and Asia all had a powerful Sacred Gear. Usually, a Peerage was only able to obtain either one or even two Sacred Gear wielders but Rias Gremory obtained four Sacred Gear wielders. A very impressive feat for one so young as well.
"I hope this summit won't be like the last one I attended."
"What happened?"
Thor grimaced, "It was supposed to be an alliance between Asgard and Olympus… then we were attacked by the Khaos Brigade and betrayed from the inside."
"Eris."
"Yeah."
So that's how Thor knew the Goddess of Khaos, she had been at Olympus and betrayed him. Losing your comrades was one thing, being betrayed by one was worse. He couldn't imagine how he'd feel if the Peerage betrayed him.
"You know," said Thor wanting to move on from that bad memory, "You fought well in the battle against Kokabiel. Even awakening your Balance Breaker. I'm eager to test my might against you. My axe against your sword."
The swordsman in Kiba stirred, to face the God of Thunder's great axe was a spar he eagerly wished to have and he would either before or after the summit.
Later
"So Gasper has Sacred Gear as well? I wonder what power it is."
"That little boy has the power to stop time itself."
All eyes turned to Lady Freya, the Gremory family had been kind enough to give the guests from Asgard lodging for the two nights before the summit in the old school building.
"Sirzechs told me about Gasper. That poor boy went through so much suffering and has allowed fear to consume his heart. He fears everyone and won't come out of the box he hides in. He tried his best to be in attendance for our arrival but as you can see he still is shy. If he had mastery over his gear he may very well have the power to control time itself."
Thor whistled, "The power to control time would make him unstoppable. Freeze someone in place or even age them into nothingness. I'd hate to see what that would look like."
"Not a pretty sight I imagine. I hope he can get the help he deserves and open up to us." Said Rossweisse from the bathroom, the Valkyrie combing the last of her long locks, "He will need to learn how to control his powers sooner than later."
"Only Rias Gremory can do such a thing and to be honest I feel she is not up to the task."
"Then you underestimate her, mother. She is powerful. Rias was able to hurt Kokabiel and that was before Vali halved him."
Freya smiled, "Your right. I apologize. She is the sister to the strongest Satan. I should have more faith in her."
"I can't say the same for Issei. He will be no match for Albion. If that boy is to face his rival then he needs to learn real combat." Sigrun said.
"Are you suggesting you be the one to help him?" Thor asked, remembering that disgusting dress break move.
"If Rias allows it, yes. Although I think Vandill is already doing so."
"The more help he gets the faster his growth will be," Rossweisse said as she exited the bathroom, her sleepwear, a simple t-shirt and shorts, the outfit drawing Thor's eyes towards her immediately.
"Let's hope the Fates will let that happen." Agreed Freya, "Now sleep and recover your energy."
Thor said goodnight to the Valkyries and headed to his own room only to stop in mid-walk when he heard a yelp from outside. Curious to know who was outside this late Thor peaked out a window and saw Gasper staring at a ball that was frozen in mid-air before falling to the ground while the little Dhampir was panting at the effort put into focusing on the object. Standing some feet away he saw Issei and Asia congratulating the boy on his efforts and encouraging him to keep going. Thor couldn't stop the smile from forming at the help the Pawn and Bishop were given Gasper. Guess Issei wasn't just a pervert, after all, there was good in him after all.
It's like the old saying goes, never judge a book by its cover
Yawning, the Aesir turned from the window and headed for his room to sleep.
The next day
The Gremory Peerage gathered in the old school building and this time Thor and his bodyguard Valkyries were in attendance, Freya had departed to speak with Sirzechs about important matters leaving her son and Valkyrie maidens to take time to get to know their future allies.
"Uhm, why have we gathered again?" Issei asked.
"Lady Freya said we have more guests from Asgard and it's my responsibility to ensure they are greeted properly to my territory." Answered his master, no sooner than she said that the Asgardian's magic circle appeared and two families' faces dressed in suits stepped out, "Henrietta. Andreas. Welcome back to Kuoh."
The buxom blonde warrior smiled, "We are honored to return to your territory, Lady Gremory. Mr. Kiba, I hope you are well."
Thor's remark about Henrietta making P.E hell for Kiba had occupied his mind and now getting a good look at the woman's muscles the God of Thunder was correct. Realizing she was talking to him the handsome warrior turned his gaze upwards to her face and smiled, "Yes, I am doing well, Ms. Berg."
"We are not in school, Kiba. You may call me Henrietta."
"Where is Azrael?" Thor asked.
"He said he'll be arriving with his father," Andreas answered.
"Very well. Till then let us all get to know each other more."
It wasn't long before the company of Devils and Asgardians were gathered around the sofas chatting merely about what they liked and disliked. The chief was Vandill sharing a tale of dealing with two Stray Devils.
"And then once we found it, me and Koneko tag-teamed the Stray, and I finished it by crushing its head with Bonecrusher."
"Your tactics are quite brutish, Vandill." Commented Kiba.
"Oh, and you cutting a limb off isn't brutal? You draw blood with your sword while I crush bones with my hammer."
"Fists can break bones too." Said Koneko.
"If you want my personal opinion, magic is a cleaner way to deal with an opponent."
Thor grinned, "Of course, you'd say that, Rose. You are a master of magic. I'd say out of everyone you outclass us all in magical prowess."
"He's right." Said Rias with a smile after sipping her tea, "You are very talented in the art of magic. I've never seen so many spells conquered at once. I'm sure you would have made an excellent Bishop. Akeno is the most proficient in magic for the Peerage but, and I'm sorry to hurt your pride Akeno, Ms. Rossweisse is more powerful than you."
The smile Akeno wore said she wasn't offended at all, rather she was impressed by the Valkyrie's talent in magic. The Japanese beauty had never needed to train in her entire life, like Rias, her skills in magic had come naturally but unlike the two young Devils, Rossweisse had dedicated her life to studying magic.
"So I hear we are all going to attend this peace summit. Will one room be able to fit all of us?" Andreas asked counting everyone in the room including those who may be joining.
"You sound as if you don't wish to be here?" Kiba asked.
The Greek shrugged his shoulders, "To be honest I'd much rather be here than cooped up in Valhalla but…I don't really see how my presence is even needed."
Rias smiled, "If you want you can stay with Gasper and Koneko. I don't intend for them to join the summit."
Andreas glanced at the Rook and Bishop, the latter hiding in his box too scared to introduce himself. Glad to find a way to be a part of the summit but not partake in it, the Einherjar agreed to join the first years. Hopefully, he can use that time to get to know them better.
"You know since school is out for the summer and we have nothing else to do. Why not we all go swimming?"
"We just used the pool last week. You just wanna peep at us again you pervert." Koneko said glaring with disgust at the pervert.
"And we just went to Alfheim's beach a few days before coming here." Sais Sigrun.
"And I personally would like to see how your Balance Breaker handles against my axe."
All eyes turned to Thor as he said that, a gleam of excitement twinkled in his blue eyes.
"Clearly you two had a discussion about this yesterday." Said Rias as she stood up with a smile of amusement on her face, "Very well. This will be an excellent opportunity to show coexistence between Asgard and the Underworld with a friendly duel."
Ten minutes later they were outside the old school building, Kiba and Thor facing one another ready to duel. The sun was shining and a cool breeze blew through the area as their friends watched on the sidelines.
"Please don't hurt each other too much!" Asia called, concerned for her fellow blonde.
"Don't worry, Asia. I won't hurt Kiba…too much."
Kiba smirked, "I'm sure you'll be regretting those words once I have you disarmed."
"Now listen to you too. This is a friendly spar. Try not to deal too fatal blows to one another. We don't want Asia healing someone at death's doorway." Said Sigrun.
"If you are ready then let the duel commence!"
Once Rias announced the duel to begin Kiba drew his sword and took off towards Thor, his Sword of Betrayer glistened in the sun. When he was close enough he swung as hard as he could but his blade met the axe handle the wood surprisingly did not even break or even leave a crack along it.
"This weapon was upgraded by the God of Smithing, Hephaestus. He wouldn't want this mighty axe to be broken so easily."
Kiba was pushed back and forced to dodge a thrust to the stomach, there was no tip on the axe head like a sword so he wouldn't have been stabbed but the impact from the blow would have knocked the wind out of him to leave the Knight wide open. The thrust was turned into an upward swing that easily broke the blonde's block, the force of the axe causing his teeth to rattle in his mouth. So this axe, Jarnbjorn he recalled it being named, wasn't just large to be flashy it had power behind it and, also remembering it was upgraded by a God, extremely light with how easily the Aesir swung it with one hand. Still, size could be a problem and he would use that to his advantage. Ducking beneath a swing he drove his blade forward to stab into Thor's unprotected right leg yet Thor surprised Kiba by twisting his body to let the blade hit the tasset letting it pierce through the armor easily but stop dead upon hitting the fur beneath it.
"What!? How can that be? Swords can pierce fur unless…" A trickle of sweat rolled down Kiba's neck, "That fur…is that…"
"From Fenrir?" Thor asked, the ghostly grin flashing across his face, "Correct."
Before Kiba could guess how the famous God Devouring Wolf had fur removed he was knocked in the side by the axe haft and followed up by a swing that he barely blocked at the last minute, the force of the blow however sent him rolling across the ground ruining his school uniform with dirt. Quickly getting back to his feet he saw Thor was upon him but Kiba was ready for him, stabbing his Balance Breaker into the earth he caused hundreds of swords to sprout from the ground like trees. The plan surprised the Aesir by the slight widening of his eyes but did not halt his advance, Jarnbjorn crackled with thunder before shattering the first column of blades easily sending steel shards everywhere. That, however, was all Kiba needed to reach for a second sword to use in his left hand and strike the redhead in the shoulder, although the armor held against the attack the ability chosen for the sword did the job. With a cry, Thor was sent to his knees, the earth beneath forming a sizeable crater.
"G-gravity magic!" He exclaimed.
"That's right," Kiba said proudly, "I believe now is the time to yield and take back those words of beating me."
"Looks like the match is won," Rias said confidently but Vandill's chuckle brought a frown to her face.
"Master, Rias, if there's one thing you should know about the Norse Faction, be it human and supernatural, it's that we do not yield until we know when to."
And sure enough to the surprise and awe of the spectators, through pure strength alone, Thor lifted his left arm and pointed his hand at Kiba before lightning shot forth from his fingers tips like water from a fountain. Even the Knight was caught off guard by Thor's resistance, luckily the handsome blonde was close enough to a sword that could work against the God of Thunder, Thunder Delete, and brought forth the two-handed broadsword to block the magic attack. Before the lightning made contact with the blade, Kiba firmly planted his feet on the ground and once it did couldn't prevent a grunt from slipping between his lips. His Holy-demonic sword, Thunder Delete, was created to counter thunder and lightning magic but this was God-level, the power behind the attack was incredible. One hand was enough to make Kiba feel like he was being attacked by hundreds of electrical cables, if Thor used two hands then it would feel like facing a thunderstorm. Nevertheless, the Knight of Rias Gremory held his ground, he would win this duel and show his strength to the woman who gave him a second chance to live!
"How is Kiba holding against Thor's attack? He's a God isn't he?" Asked Akeno.
"He is," Rossweisse replied, "However, even Gods need to train to grow stronger. Look at me and Sigrun, we are half-gods but even we train. Yes, Thor is a God but he has not reached true God-level powers yet. For now, all he knows is normal elemental magic. In time he'll reach that power."
Rias sighed, at least Kiba wasn't facing true Godly powers yet, still as more lightning poured from Thor's fingers she could see her Knight was starting to be overwhelmed by the spell. His elemental absorbing swords were very useful but against the God of Thunder it was futile to hold off forever and she was right. With a blast of new lightning, the sword shattered, unleashing a shockwave that sent both combatants rolling across the ground.
Managing to get to his knees Kiba looked up in time to see Thor throw Jarnbjorn at the Knight, thunder, and lightning crackling around the weapon as it spun towards him. Summoning Sword of Betrayer at the last minute he swung hard, batting the axe away listening to the roar of thunder as the axe embedded itself into a tree with such force that mother nature's creation went crashing to the floor. That was too close! He could have killed me with that!
When Thor leaped at Kina the axe flew back into his outstretched hand, when they met sword and axe collided with the grinding of steel. Kiba was careful not to let his blade make contact with the handle lest he lose the Sword of Betrayer by having Thor hook and pull it from his grip. Sword blade and axe head clashed each time sparks flew with the force behind the attacks, neither willing to yield. Parrying a swing Kiba attempted to use his speed to get behind his opponent but Thor was just as fast spinning on his heels he blocked Kiba's strike and, realizing the blade made contact with the haft, pulled as fast as he could to bring the axe head down to hook the sword and wrench it from Kiba's hand. Thor knocked Kiba in the face with the handle's bottom end, sending the handsome blonde stumbling back before having the large axe head pressed against his throat.
"That was quite the spectacle. I think we all know who the winner is." Rias said, stepping forward, despite seeing her Knight loss she held no qualms about it. Kiba was facing the Son of Odin and he was leagues above him in power and skill as well as a God.
"I'm sorry I couldn't win." Said Kiba lowering his head in shame when the axe was withdrawn, "I won't make the same mistakes twice!"
Thor firmly clasped Kiba on the shoulder and said calmly, "You mustn't let mistakes weigh you down. Acknowledge them and take what you've learned to move on."
Although she was smiling at Thor's words, Rias as of late had not acknowledged her own mistakes but rather dwelled which in turn weighed her down as the God of Thunder said. Once, her greatest mistake was thinking she could beat Riser with only a week's worth of training now, however, it was the belief in stopping Kokabiel without the aid of her brother. It was foolish to think that being related to the Strongest Satan meant she had the same power as him but all she did was burn Kokabiel's hands, an impressive feat nonetheless but burnt hands were nothing compared to what her brother could do with his powers. Both inherited the Power of Destruction from their mother yet Sirzechs was already powerful the day he was born, she, however, had bloomed late in the skills of magic which had come naturally with never a day's worth of training needed that of course bit her in the butt after the battle at the school.
"Such wise words. You truly do take after your father."
"Mother!" Gasped Thor, the unexpected arrival of the Queen of the Valkyries had taken everyone by surprise. The blue-haired Vanir Goddess gracefully approached, her feet Rias noticed were shoeless and they gently moved through the grace. Every time the redhead gazed upon the queen she couldn't help admiring how beautiful she was.
"Ah. I see you've all made it." Freya said spotting Henrietta and Andreas before settling her gaze upon Thor, Rias, Akeno, and Issei, "May I have a private word with the four of you?"
"Oh! Of course!" Rias said, startled and honored to have Odin's son speak to them. They followed the queen a short distance to be out of earshot from the others.
"Mother, what's this all about?"
Freya turned and looked all four in turn, "First off, I wish to start by saying tomorrow you and I will be having an important meeting to attend. The meeting place, however, has not been chosen which is why I hope you, Akeno Himejima, will grant us permission to use your home as the place. Yes, Sirzechs told me where you live and has agreed to it. If you do not wish for your home to be the place then I'm sure we can find somewhere else."
"Not at all. Not at all, Lady Freya." Said Akeno with a smile, "I will be more than happy and honored to have you and your son as guests in my home for this meeting."
Freya smiled, "Good. Also, you too are requested to join, Issei Hyoudou."
"M-me!?" Gasped Issei, trying his utmost best not to let his eyes move down to the queen's ample bust.
"Correct. You especially are required to attend."
"Yeah sure thing," Issei said, rubbing the back of his head, an action he always did when feeling nervous or uncomfortable.
"Wonderful. Now I expect each and every one of you to behave accordingly." Her gaze was fixated on Thor the longest before, with a sweep of her golden cloak, departed with the same grace she had when approaching.
"Oh my. Oh my. It's quite an honor to have the Queen of the Valkyries and God of Thunder be present at my home for an important meeting." Said Akeno, a little too cheerfully Thor noticed.
"Well in that case I shall let you leave early to prepare for your guest, Akeno." Ordered Rias, her smiling seeming to twinkle with amusement at her Queen's excitement, "Remember what Lady Freya said Issei. You must be on your best behavior and I expect you to do so as well."
Y-yes, president! I won't mess it up I promise!"
"What exactly did she mean by that?" Thor wondered aloud while Akeno departed for home, leaving only Rias and her Pawn.
"Perhaps you will be meeting with my brother or Azazel. Or…" She paused unsure if she should finish her thought.
"Or Heaven?" Thor asked, a twinge of anger flashing over his face, "I guess we shall see."
"Yes," Said Rias turning to return to her Peerage and the Einherjar who were chatting, "Yes we shall."
Once more thank you all for your condolence this has been a rough month for me.
And so ends another chapter with the introduction of our favorite vampire boy. I will admit I was having a daring idea to have Sigrun ask if Gasper was transgender for wearing girl's clothes but luckily was talked out of doing it. I know Thor will need character development with Gasper and the rest of Rias' peerage and that will happen but not yet. Not until the events of the next chapter which I'm sure you all know what will happen. If anyone has any personal questions to ask don't be afraid to DM me. Also for a fun trivia who knows what skeggold and skalmold mean and where did you first hear it? Anyway, this is HollowReaper93, I hope you've enjoyed the chapter. Make sure to like, favorite, review, and share with other people.