Haro654: For being the fallen angel of logic...Forcas did not think this one through...
FenrisFiltiarn: She made her choice! Forgive me! xD Indeed, daddy Thor was very unhappy, Forcas better be glad he wasn't there when he arrived.
A Plexx: Thank you! Alas, poor Despoina was too far along her path before Dorian arrived. :(
Exiled Soul Nomad: Very well said.
Jwebb96: Hmmm, how far can a fallen angel fall further? Hopefully Dorian will answer that this chapter.
Guardian Craze: Have your music players ready in 3...2...1...
Curse of Whimsey: Oh he is weeellll past restraint, alas for poor Despoina she could not accept his offer before it was too late...
fanficcyberman: Thank you, I most certainly will!
LordOfTee: He most certainly did, a combination of the day he got to know her then a lifetime of memories...time to cut loose on the one responsible. I will most certainly!
DJDrake: I am sorry you feel that way, she had strayed down the path of vengeance so far she could not see she herself was being used. I hope this concluding chapter of the arc makes up that sorrowful event.
Sakra95: Indeed, the conclusion of the battle is ahead, LOL I can just picture Despoina as a maid...she probably wouldn't have minded being Dorian's xD. Though it does feel like a light punishment for starting the events leading to the deaths of hundreds of soldiers.
Kilgraves: Thank you!
CecilRedwing: I am so glad you do, it was a lot of fun designing.
AxelLord20: It means so much to hear how much you enjoy my work. Your review made me chuckle at the end with the Groot comparison, how terrifying would that have been? BALANCE BREAKER: LAERAD RAGNAROK, I AM GROOT! xD I hope to never disappoint as I continue forward.
Naruto: Thanks! We'll have to see next time he has a chance to step out of it.
And with that...onto the conclusion!
"Most impressive," Forcas remarked to Dorian as he remained affixed on him with his new armor. "A balance breaker from an Einherjar's Sacred Gear, truly the day is just full of blasphemous actions…what's one more?"
Dorian growled in anger before taking off, breaking the floor beneath him as he propelled himself towards the ever-smug fallen angel who erected a barrier with a wave of his hand. To his horror, the holy wall of energy shattered with a blow from Dorian's fist which continued right into his gut. Slashing sideways with Twilight Star, Forcas scarcely had time to block the strike with his black blade. The force of the swing amplified by the gold of Asgard coupled with the wind being knocked out of him sent the former Grigori Lieutenant crashing into the floor.
Strength, magic, darkness, nature, fire, Iggy's voice listed off the powers of the five gems shimmering across his armor that Dorian had accessed. The might of the nine realms which you have the power to access at once brought to bear against him! One day all nine may be at your call.
Rossweisse watched on as magic seals which she had taught him appeared over each shoulder and even beneath the staggering opponent. As Forcas attempted to move, he found himself forced back to his knees as the offensive runes forming behind Dorian took shape. Great tendrils of nature punched through the ground, wrapping about his body.
Gravity magic seals? He's never been capable of those before, they should be beyond his stamina to conjure and maintain. Just how much power did his Sacred Gear grant him?
Not wanting to remain down, Rossweisse focused, subtly reinforcing his armor with defensive runes with her own. Her heart jumped as the young Einherjar's black gaze locked onto her for a moment as if contemplating if she were a threat. Upon deciding her actions were not, he returned to the eight-winged angel struggling against the seals enhancing the force of gravity beneath him.
"You are a child! You know not what powers you harness you damned neophyte!"
Dorian released a torrent of ice and fire, no longer a single javelin of each but instead a hail and firestorm of the elements raining down on the incapacitated villain. Before they could strike, a renewed nova of holy energy erupted from his wings, vaporizing the root-prison and incoming attacks, following their path back to him. The power of Heaven shattered the enhanced seals yet dispersed before reaching the rider of Yggdrasil, disappearing into the depths of the void-gem once more.
Freed from the gravity seal, Forcas started firing wave after wave of light-forged projectiles towards his opponent. Dorian dodged them all, seeming to shimmer across the field moving so fast he left after-images in his wake. In response, a wall of black fire cascaded across the room from his arm, consuming all save the ancient marble. Impressively, Forcas' black blade cut downward, slicing even that soul-scorching flame in two, the wave split and dispersed leaving him unharmed.
As the wall of heat collapsed, Dorian appeared before him having used it to obscure his approach. The fallen angel of logic could not believe how aggressive he had become with his newfound power. Despite being an upper-tiered angel in Heaven, he was being pushed back! Forcas twisted his sword, slashing horizontally across his chest. The legendary blade parried his swordspear and cut clean through the armor and defense seals, yet did not reach his flesh. Dorian ignored the blow and buried a fist deep into Forcas' chest below the lungs, driving all air from him and causing saliva to fly from his mouth as every bit of air was forced out of his body.
As he gasped for breath; the warrior griped one of his opponent's black wings and pulled hard. Rossweisse flinched at the blood-curdling scream as the feathered appendage was ripped from its owner's back as promised. Dorian had fought with determination and fortitude in the past but Rossweisse had never seen him fight with such…savagery. Releasing his swordspear to float beside him, Dorian raised both fists in the air, bringing down an Earth-shattering blow. The mastermind behind the attack plowed into the ground, leaving a sizable crater.
The retainer to the gods, blinded by fury and shadow, dropped on top of his battered foe, crushing him further into the ground before proceeding to pound him mercilessly deeper and deeper into the marble. With a ferocity that would have given Heracles pause he punched Forcas again and again, giving him no time to react until finally stopping to survey his work.
Forcas used the lapse in battle, fumbling in his coat to reveal a red gem like the one Despoina had used on Dorian. Before he could clench his fist, the angered Einherjar seized his wrist and squeezed. In pain, the former Seraph dropped the device to the floor.
"I said…you AREN'T getting away!" As a final insult, Dorian casually hoisted up and threw him toward the nearby wall, smashing through it.
Dorian's demeanor suddenly calmed as he stood to his feet, retrieving the gem and realizing what he held. An artificial pathway to Elysium, a way by which a single person can reach Heaven regardless of their life lived, with a calming inhalation, the void gem on his hand went out. His eyes returned to their normal grey appearance as he slowly walked over to Despoina's corpse.
Forcas started to extricate himself from the rubble spotting his opponent, utterly bewildered by his actions. In a quick motion, Dorian crushed the gem in his hand, opening a portal directly in front him, but he had no intention of using it himself. As tenderly as he could, he lifted Despoina's body and eased it into the glowing red fracture that had formed in the air. The gateway seemed to pull her in, finally closing as she finished the journey within.
"Find some happiness there at least…"
"You are…so fucking naïve," Forcas spat blood, all pretenses of his polite etiquette forgotten at the destruction of his only way out. Enraged, he lifted his hands over his head, a colossal spear of light dwarfing all before formed between them. With the power of Nidavellir dismissed, he had a clear shot.
Dorian locked eyes with Forcas once more, holding out his left hand, the weapon forgotten above soared down towards its master. Dorian gripped it tightly, raising Twilight Star towards his opponent. To Rossweisse's amazement, the crystal blade lit up, splitting at multiple points until it had transformed…into a trident head.
None could tell save the young Einherjar, but as the weapon transformed, he could almost feel as if a pair of arms were wrapped around him. It was like someone was embracing him from behind sending a warm feeling spreading through his body.
"DIE!" Forcas hurled the spear with all his strength towards the warrior of Asgard. The young man did not flinch.
The crystalline trident of Twilight Star crackled with power, the energy already generating from the weapon was amplified many times over by the power of Vanaheim as a bolt of gold-lightning erupted from within. The energy tore through the approaching spear, shattering it with ease as it continued its course towards the bruised fallen angel. Thinking quickly, he wrapped his wings around himself as a shield. Weakened as he was, not even that could get through all eight…
Only then, as he had already encircled himself in his feathers did Forcas realize he had neglected a painful truth; he had but seven wings remaining which left a gap in his defense. Quickly, he levitated upward to avoid the attack. At least he tried, however failed to move...only noticing then that an unusually large vine had emerged from the ground, wrapping many times around an exposed leg.
The gold-lightning arched at the last second, entering the minute gap in his defenses left by the absent wing and struck the Khaos Brigade commander in the chest. The energy exploded on contact leaving a billowing black cloud where he had once been. After several seconds of uncertainty, he plummeted to the ground, denting the floor with his impact, body black and smoldering from the attack. A second bolt of lightning, and a third, then fourth. Again and again Dorian fired over and over into the overwhelmed former Grigori as he lay immobilized, raising the weapon for another strike.
"DORIAN!"
He paused, breathing in deep with a gasp upon realizing he hadn't even taken a breath through the whole barrage. His hand was shaking with restrained rage, looking over to Rossweisse still watching from the side. He ceased his attack, eyes widening at her expression.
She looked absolutely terrified, whether it was of or for him…he didn't want to consider which.
With adrenaline pumping through him while trying to control his breathing, Dorian approached Forcas' twitching body; Twilight Star's Trident had reverted back to the blade form which he pressed against the defeated general's throat upon realizing he was still alive. Rossweisse rushed to his side, eyeing him up and down to ensure he was unhurt.
"It's over," Dorian dematerialized his helmet to allow the two to look each other in the eyes. It took every ounce of restraint in his body to not end him right there. He was beaten; it wouldn't have been any more right than allowing Modi to succumb to the mists of Hel.
"For me…perhaps," he gasped, barely able to speak. "But my lord Kokabiel WILL have his war, you only delay the inevitable. Your Hrotti and the others are more than sufficient. Until that day, drown in the sorrow your mercy has wrought."
The former Grigori flexed his hand; Dorian had barely realized his black sword was thrown across the room during his savage exchange. At its master's gesture, the bygone holy blade straightened, pulled by an invisible force to obey his command...on a direct course for Rossweisse's back.
"ROSE MO-!" Dorian screamed, shoulder checking her out of the way a fraction of a second before the sword pierced his chest, puncturing his newfound armor and cracking the center gem with ease. Dorian's balance breaker shattered in an instant, his eyes glazing over as he collapsed on his side to the floor, the dark brand still lodged within him.
"DORIAN!" Rossweisse cried as Forcas could only laugh despite the great pain it caused him.
"He…chose your life over victory. What a sorry excuse for an Einherjar."
Rossweisse turned, rage burning in her eyes, she did not hesitate. In an instant a dozen seals of the strongest siege-breaking bombardment magic she had at her disposal formed around Forcas. With no protection he didn't even have time to understand the gravity of his miscalculation before he was pulverized down to his very bones. As the dust settled several seconds later there were scarcely a powder silhouette and a few scattered feathers remaining.
"Hang on!" The terrified Valkyrie commanded as she placed barriers on the entry and exit wounds from the blade to stop any bleeding. Had he been a devil, Dorian would already be dead from the magic inherent in the sword. Once certain they were secure, she pulled hard despite his cries of pain, removing the holy blade and casting it aside.
She cradled the young man's body, keeping his head level, smacking his face to keep him conscious. If he passed out she couldn't guarantee he would wake up, she didn't have Thrud's Sage Arts. Rossweisse heard the heavy footfalls of boots from the entrance as an entire Asgardian formation filed into the armory. They had swept away all resistance encountered up to that point yet realized they had been too slow.
"Rose?" Dorian asked, he couldn't focus on her. Holding out his hand he found her cheek, knowing it was her in an instant.
"Don't talk," she commanded. "Breathe slow and steady and don't you DARE go to sleep!"
"I think…I should say something," Dorian whispered, it all felt so familiar.
A weapon aimed, I took the hit, the assassin thwarted but I nearly died. She was there, holding me in her arms which was all that kept me going. I…I tell her everything about how I feel and she'll remember it when…
Dorian opened his mouth to speak but stopped before uttering another sound. He had to remind himself again, this wasn't Elysium, and they weren't like that. That final adrenaline rush spent, he slumped down, all strength drained.
"We need a healer!" Rossweisse called out to the soldiers, each looked between the other as they helped a woozy Bennia to her feet. Those present were the strongest warriors Valhalla commanded yet had no knowledge of healing beyond basic first aid. The ones with such powers were back at the Grand Hall tending to the many other casualties. They would have to carry him all the way or send a runner to…
A rumbling sound came up from the corridor beyond, forcing the assembled troops to scatter as a grand war chariot smashed through the doorframe too small to accommodate its size. Rossweisse could not help but gaze in amazement at the arrival of the fiery-haired strongest warrior of Asgard who had only just come from discovering Thrud outside battered but alive. Her quiet words while still half-conscious had driven her father to aid those inside with the utmost haste.
"I have no skills in healing, noble Valkyrie," the God of Thunder started in a deep booming voice. "Yet none assembled can match the speed of my chariot. Bring him hither, we shall bear him to those that do faster than the winds of Hel and strive in vain to outrun Sleipnir."
Elsewhere…
The bearer of Heracles' soul was fuming. His shattered hands would take time to heal on their own, were it not for the pain that wracked them he would have been tearing the room to pieces.
"So the rogue Grigori deceived us?" A tall shape from the shadows asked the wounded fighter. The newcomer carried aloft an extravagant spear yet seemed unconcerned with his allies' injuries.
"They never intended to destroy Olympus," he growled. "They just wanted the weapons to spark their endless war."
"Such is the arrogance of those who preside over the fates of men. The fallen ones will have to continue their crusade alone. Let this be a reminder," with a flip of his fingers, he tossed a thin glass vial to Heracles who barely caught it in his broken digits. "Use it."
Heracles opened the stopper, allowing a lone drop to fall upon each hand. He squinted as a bright glow overtook them, quickly dimming and returning to normal. With a sinister grin he turned, smashing a nearby boulder into dust, the bones mended and pain gone.
"I hope this reminds you to reign in that overconfidence, you have yet to unlock your balance breaker. Until that time, you are still vulnerable."
The two figures of supreme strength suddenly quieted as a calm, serene sound could be heard from the entrance to their hideout. It was clearly the sound of a little girl merrily humming without a care in the world slowly approaching. It did not take long before her silhouette was visible from the pathway in the distance.
"Make yourself presentable before she arrives," the first warned. "We'll head out immediately…there is much work to do."
Olympus…
Dorian was standing among the halls of Olympus, they were on fire…the Twilight of the Gods had come.
The flame of Olympus had been snuffed out, each of the gods lay dead at his feet and the home of the pantheon lay smoldering atop the peak of the physical Mt. Olympus. This could not have been done by the Khaos Brigade; such totality of defeat was beyond them.
Far in the distance, he spotted a great shape with seven heads laying waste to what little remained, if anything still lived among those halls it wouldn't be much longer. Glancing down at his feet, Dorian saw them all. Zeus, Hera, Aphrodite, even Hades was among them…and then he looked further up, spotting a silver-haired body lumped unceremoniously in a pile with hundreds of others.
The landscape of your subconscious is quite troubled; he heard a soft voice behind him. I will consider this mystery, for the moment please wake up Dorian.
"ROSE!" Dorian shot up in his bed, arms reaching forward instinctively. To his surprise, there was someone leaning over him, his arms wrapping around them tightly by instinct like a vice as his eyes strove to focus.
"You're safe, everyone is safe," he heard Freyja's voice but she seemed so far away. Was his hearing acclimating too?
"I'm sorry my lady," he apologized, squeezing the closest woman he had to a mother tighter. "It was…a dream I suppose, I saw so much death."
"I understand," he heard Thrud who sounded much closer. "But if you don't let go a certain someone might get jealous when she wakes up."
Dorian pulled back, squinting until his eyes finally focused. He'd been embracing Thor's daughter the whole time who was wearing a gold Olympian-style gown that had been granted due to her quarters being among those ransacked and destroyed.
"Your hands!"
"They're fine," she assured him. They were bandaged up to the elbow but had long since stopped bleeding. The restrictive wrappings had prevented her from reciprocating the unexpected hug. She made sure not to mention the ones beneath the dress covering her torso. "I'll just have to return the favor next time that Heracles shows his face."
Pushing himself up in the bed, Dorian realized he was in a brightly lit chamber. As with much of Olympus, the walls were shining gold from the sunlight with white sheets draping down from the ceiling. The entire room was filled with beds, each one held a wounded soldier recuperating from the battle. Just seeing how far back they stretched put into perspective how wide-spread the fighting had been. He also realized that Thrud wasn't the only one there.
Ratatoskr was lying face-up on the nearby table, his belly bloated as he snored loudly. It appeared he had learned the location of Dorian's strawberry stash and helped himself. Lady Freyja was standing behind Thrud, smiling with joy as it was clear she'd been worried about his recovery. She finally approached the bed, pulling him into another of her awkward motherly hugs pressing him close to her.
Thrud held a finger to her lips as he spotted Rossweisse, currently sleeping in a chair opposite the bed. She was breathing steadily, a book cradled on her lap she had clearly been reading when exhaustion overtook her.
"She's been watching over you for three days."
"Three days!?" Dorian felt like he had wasted so much time. "What happened to the attack? What about the Khaos Brigade? What…?"
"All is well," Freyja assured him. "Once time was no longer a factor we were successful in restoring the flame and burning out the poison. I hear it was thanks to yours and Rossweisse's efforts that my husband was able to bring the full weight of Asgard down upon the invaders. He is currently in meetings with Zeus."
"Casualties were heavy among my hoplites, but light considering the possible alternatives."
Dorian glanced over, only now spotting Hecuba occupying the bed beside him. She was naked from the waist up but bandages covered the entirety of her injuries to maintain her modesty save for a few bare curves. She seemed quite content in her current position, possibly the calmest since he had seen her at the overlook.
"I hear her father tore through their forces," she motioned weakly towards Thrud. "With their leadership slain they lost all thirst for battle and threw down their arms. Even then, it was not until they came across her that he showed them mercy."
"Father was quite impressed with my protector," Thrud looked down at the comatose squirrel who had confronted Thor directly, not having recognized him right away. "He still cannot stop laughing at having his manhood threatened by a rodent in my defense." She sighed half in embarrassment. "He wants to see if Rat can be allowed into Valhalla…"
Dorian could not help but laugh, gripping his sides as pain came with each spasm.
He'd never accept that offer until there were more women warriors in there with skimpier armor. I can't believe I missed getting to meet Thor…
"Are you alright?" Freyja finally asked. "No one knew whence you went after you traveled down to Midgard to face the Brigade."
Dorian's laughter ceased, the memories returning somewhat, many hazier than they had been. Hesitantly, he told them of the ambush, Despoina's betrayal and her desire to keep him safe from the battle using the strange red gem.
"Heracles used one just like that to escape," Thrud interjected. "Where does it go?"
"Elysium."
"It is a means of visiting the Land of the Dead," a melodious voice explained as Aphrodite glided into the room. "To either converse with Hades or even as rewards reserved only for the most deserving of mortals who grow weary of life yet have not yet reached their time."
"Then how did the Khaos Brigade get their hands on them?"
"My dear uncle proclaims it must have been through nefarious means as none have been provided in many years. It seems Heracles was able to resist the pull of that place and escape. We do not know where he is now."
"Perhaps we should allow him to rest," Freyja jumped in, noticing the lines of sadness contorting Dorian's face at mention of that place. "I am sure he still needs sleep, do not worry Mr. Held, the talks are all but concluded and you shall not need to resume your retainer services until our return to Asgard."
"Then they…?"
"A grand success, we may go over details when you are well," gesturing for the door, the goddess ushered everyone out as Hecuba leaned back, preparing for another long nap.
Rossweisse remained sleeping in her seat, Thrud making sure to lay a thick blanket overtop her childhood friend before slipping out. Dorian sighed, barely realizing that Aphrodite had not yet left.
"Your heart is heavy," she pointed out, her voice ever soft and gentle.
"I'm fine, I just need rest and…"
"You left your ideal behind."
He froze; she could read him like a book, was it some power of the goddess of love or just simple intuition? Seeing no reason for deceit he slowly nodded.
"And she was there," she glanced briefly at the sleeping Rossweisse. It was a statement, not a question.
"We…aren't like that."
The goddess approached him, taking a seat at the edge of his bed.
"You may tell me, I have…some experience with such matters."
Of that Dorian did not doubt, yet worried if he didn't talk to someone he would surely burst. Though he already was starting to find it difficult to recall some of the smaller details he started to tell her all of what he saw including his time in Elysium up to the moment he broke its hold on him.
"If it helps," she replied at length once he had finished. "The memories will fade into your mind as all do eventually within the week. They will not torment you to the end of days. Elysium was meant to be a reward, I apologize that it has burdened you so. Though you do have a unique opportunity from your experience there if you can see it."
"And what opportunity is that?"
"Few mortals discover for what they yearn more than all else in life, yet you have seen your own firsthand. You can make it a reality if you wish, or change it if there was aught you saw it lacking. I must admit, we were quite surprised to learn that Despoina had perished and her soul reached Elysium despite all she'd done. I suppose you don't know anything about that?"
Dorian refused to make eye contact as he shook his head.
"You need not fear, you left Elysium of your own volition, yet our laws are clear. Once a soul reaches there, we are forbidden from interfering with their judgement. Alas for the fury of my uncles, such devices as these were not considered in ages past when they were written."
"I just wish…I could have helped her."
"In a way you did, would you like to see her?"
Dorian looked up at her with a look of utter confusion, she was dead, she'd said so herself.
"Just don't tell anyone," she placed a finger to her lips with a giggle. With her other hand she traced a circle before him, generating a portal with shimmering pink borders no bigger than a small window.
Dorian looked within its depths, recognizing the golden fields of Elysium where the sun was ever shining. His jaw dropped as he spotted Despoina smiling wider than he had seen in his brief time at Olympus. She was dressed in the same garb as the highest gods of Olympus on par with Zeus, Poseidon and Hades themselves. Behind her trailed an older giant of a man who appeared equally overjoyed, no doubt her father the Titan Anytos, carrying a small child with her blue-purple hair on either shoulder.
Dorian could not help but grin, she looked at peace, so content. Knowing full well the effect of Elysium he felt truly happy for her. As another shape entered the frame his cheeks lit up red while his heart skipped a beat.
A tall man approached behind, he was identical in every way to Dorian only dressed in a white and gold-sashed Olympian robe. Though he could not help noticing his duplicate seemed a bit more impressively built, he supposed he couldn't hold it against her. As soon as she spotted his presence she ran to him, leaping into his arms as they embraced with a spin, Anytos covering the children's eyes as they kissed.
"You…you don't have to show me anymore," he assured her as he wiped his eyes with a sniffle.
"Of course," Aphrodite waved her hand, dispersing the vision. "Your future is your own, just remember that."
With that final word, the goddess of love stood to leave, leaning over the sleeping Ratatoskr and planting a soft kiss on his forehead, causing the rodent to smile goofily before curling up to wrap his tail around himself.
"I never pictured the Greek goddess of love and a perverted squirrel from Yggdrasil together," Dorian could not help but chuckle at her tender actions.
"What can I say?" She smiled serenely. "I'm rather fond of older men who are fans of my work."
Olympus Throne Room…
All were gathered amid the Grand Hall of Olympus, the tables cleared to allow everyone present to stand comfortably. Dorian and the others had recovered enough to travel outside the houses of healing and just in time. The entire Greek pantheon assembled all who fought in the battle before them to wish the deepest thanks and grant rewards for their services. With the Heart of Olympus restored, the army of Asgard was no longer required to ensure their protection and Hecuba's troops stood tall once more.
Of the surviving soldiers, each of them received rewards and riches sufficient to ensure their families never wanted for anything again. Similar payment was gifted to the loved ones of all who fell in battle, their names to be remembered among the heroes. With the standard troops and commanders of note recognized, Zeus moved on to those who had carried themselves with distinction.
"Aella, step forward."
The petite harpy inched forward, her heart pounding at the knowledge she was the first of her kind to stand at the throne of Olympus.
"Your people fought against us out of fear, I regret that we gave no reason your forbearers to accept our protection. Yet, once the threat to your own was removed you did not hesitate to come to our aid. For this show of faith and loyalty ill-earned by us, I grant full approval for you to raise a nest and flight here among the skies of Olympus within our protection for all who fought and their descendants."
"Th-thank you! *caw*" Aella bowed low, already envisioning where among the endless fields and great trees would be perfect to begin. She could picture a particular one that would allow a dozen eggs to be housed comfortably. At Zeus' gesture she returned to the line behind her.
Hecuba approached next, her wounds on the mend. She wore her full armor and cloak yet no sword as her own was destroyed within the maw of a Cerberus and she had not claimed another. Aries stepped forward this time, holding out an odd-looking blade. Without hesitation Hecuba accepted the gift, drawing it just enough to get a good look.
The sword was designed like a Spatha, a longsword made for reach, however curved downward at the front making it more for a slashing weapon. She turned and twisted it as she did not recognize the gleam of the material; it was black yet seemed to shine silver in certain lights. Red designs matching her hair had been traced across the blade and merged with the gold hilt.
"Hephaestus worked long since the battle on your behalf," the god of war announced. "You hold in your hand a true monster slayer, forged from the bones of Echidna herself. The scabbard is wrapped in her flesh and will serve you well. Use it in the days ahead to hunt her ilk and all others who name themselves monsters."
Hecuba sheathed the sword and bowed in thanks.
"And I would grant a boon as well," Zeus announced as returned to his seat. "Name a wish of thee, if it is within my power I shall grant it."
Hecuba hesitated, however after a moment she settled on a request.
"I…heard that a force was being assembled to ensure justice is upheld across the realms of the Norse gods and our own, is that correct?"
"It is."
"I would request to be permitted to join this alliance."
Zeus looked surprised at her request, leaning forward to take further interest.
"If you are unhappy in leading Olympus' mortal defenders, simply say the reason and I can…"
"It is not that my lord," she clarified quickly. "I have been truly honored to be gifted this post, yet I feel I can do more out there. This assault was long in the making, but above here we were completely unaware. I was useless in preventing it. If I can go out into the world…walk with those of another realm, I can learn so much more, be proactive in their prevention."
"And find your lost family blade?" The King of Olympus could sense in her voice.
"That objective would be secondary, I swear on my ancestor."
Zeus let a quick smile slip through, "Very well, your request is granted. Know that your post shall always be open should you seek it again, and I can think of few to ensure Olympus' best interests are upheld in this time of cooperation."
The next was the small Grim Reaper; Bennia knelt before the gods.
"And for you, acolyte of my brother, you have not asked for any rewards or riches for your service despite battling against their very general himself. I bid of you ask and I shall grant it."
"U-um," Bennia showed a seldom-seen timid side of herself. "This is sort of embarrassing as Hecuba beat me to the punch…but I would also like to join this unified group. It sounds fun!"
Plus I can get away from Hades, dodge that headache when he hears I actually fought in the battle against his orders.
Zeus let out a thunderous laugh that caused her to shirk back at first; worried she had said something wrong. "It seems we are all losing to this new idea of unification, is there aught of your previous station you wish to bring up today?"
"No," she fibbed. "Besides," she glanced over at Dorian still awaiting his turn among those honored. "It'll give me a chance to meet way more interesting people."
Once again, Zeus granted her wish, Lady Freyja could not help but smile brightly from the back. Her idea for combining those of other realms was taking root faster than she ever hoped; she would need to bring in her own candidates sooner than expected. Thrud was the next called forward.
"This has long been in our keeping,"
Athena held out an exquisite greatbow of even more immaculate design than her old one. It was almost as tall as the daughter of Thor, the design oddly simplistic yet swirling up its dark-brown wooden length were bands of gold that shimmered brightly in the light.
"That was the bow of Heracles, mightiest among our heroes. It is obvious his descendant and receptacle for his soul has lost the honor to wield it. As the one who bested him, I can think of no one better to make full use of it. Arrows coated in the acidic blood of the Hydra will be supplied as well."
Thrud's eyes lit up, obviously able to see the mastery in its craftsmanship. From the back of the room stood her father, a single tear welling up in his eyes with pride. From the side, Odin offered a tissue to his son which he accepted and used gladly.
"To the Allfather's bodyguard," Rossweisse was the next to be recognized. "For delivering the killing blow to the mastermind behind the attack and your actions in the Heart of Olympus, I hear tell you are a genius with your people's magic?"
"My grandmother was an excellent teacher," she answered, ever humble.
"No doubt, in preparation for trade between our people, I grant you this tome…a collection of the roots of our ancient magic. Learn from it with my blessing and the hope that you will take to our ways as quickly as your own."
The thrifty Valkyrie tried to hide her excitement at such a prospect, but Dorian could practically see the stars in her eyes as she accepted the book. He almost failed to notice he was next up.
"And of course, Dorian Held, Lady Freyja's retainer," Zeus gestured for him to approach and kneel. "Your Valkyrie tutor Rossweisse told us that the Khaos Brigade would have succeeded in their true objective was it not for your valor and strength despite the final blow being hers. A balance breaker to best their general, truly, your drive to protect her and Olympus was impressive indeed."
Rossweisse blushed from the back of the room.
"For that, you have earned our deepest thanks, knowledge that you may call Olympus one of your homes as well as a reward of your choosing. Go on; ask what you may, so long as it is within my power I shall grant it gladly."
Dorian was silent for a moment, glancing to the sides as if contemplating if he should speak his mind. At long last he raised his head high, locking eyes with the King of Olympus.
"It is my understanding," he started at length. "That the children born to the gods of Olympus are separated based upon the lateness of birth compared to their siblings as well as the status of their parents…is that correct?"
Zeus leaned back in his throne. "It is."
"Then, if it does not overstep the bounds of your offer," Dorian inhaled for a final burst of courage. "I would request that this practice be retired so that any born of the gods may have equal opportunities regardless of the details of their birth. To be judged as they grow older based on their own accomplishments and character."
A muttering spread throughout the hall and even among a few of the pantheon. They were quickly silenced as Zeus raised a hand.
"It…does not overstep my words," he confirmed. "But are you certain that is your desire? I am offering anything you wish. Ambrosia to become a god, power to rival all but the strongest of us, a weapon of our armory with few exceptions, armor to make you impervious to mortal weapons. Even should you wish a throng of beautiful wives, ask and it will be so beyond your wildest dreams. After the tales being sung have traveled the land, there would be no shortage of volunteers."
It was fortunate the Lord of Olympus did not spot Thrud or Rossweisse's gazes at that line, lest he sense the suppressed killing intent.
"I…am certain," Dorian held his ground despite a few moments of hesitation. Odin looked horrified at the refusal of a harem while Freyja could not have been beaming brighter. "Besides," he looked to Twilight Star floating in the corner. "I will already be taking a piece of Olympus home with me…"
Zeus sighed heavily, glancing over at Hera who appeared quite apprehensive. It would be a drastic change to their current system of upbringing so many, but the King of Olympus had given his word and there was clearly no ill intent in the eyes of the requester.
"Very well then, let none say I would ever break an oath once given. It will take time to…make adjustments. But I swear by my progeny that it shall be done!"
"Thank you, my lord," he bowed in reverence before also stepping back among the collected guests.
"We have a long road to recovery!" Zeus announced to the hall, his voice amplified so none could miss a word. "Yet we shall persevere and be stronger than ever, Asgard…and Olympus as one!"
The soldiers and residents of Olympus raised a voice in cheer, even the Asgardian troops joined in. It had been a day long hoped for and longer in the making. Soon they would see if peace once found could be maintained.
"For the moment," Zeus clapped his hands together, setting off a powerful blast of lightning. In a flash the large, mostly empty portion of the meeting hall was now filled with the grand table, enough seats for all and food to spare. "Let us feast!"
After much merriment…
Dorian stretched his arms once out in the cool air, inside the collected deities, Hersir, guardsman and others attending continued to feast though many had taken to their feet to walk and converse. Thor and Aries were especially boisterous, many fearing a confrontation to contest their mutual boasts of superior strength.
Odin and Zeus had drunk more than probably the rest of the others combined excluding Ragnar. To Dorian and Freyja's shock and dismay they overheard mention of a Breast Hostess Club already being planned at the footsteps of Olympus. It appeared the Allfather's master plan had come to fruition. Ratatoskr was sobbing into Aphrodite's dress, swearing his devotion and how he would force Dorian to send him to visit Olympus whenever the opportunity allowed. The goddess of love simply patted his head, feeding him strawberries as she assured him she would eagerly await each of his visits.
Night had fallen and the moon hung full and high above, they'd be returning to Asgard soon and while he knew he could come and go as he pleased per Zeus' proclamation, he still could not help and feel he'd miss the view. Looking out over terrace, all he could see was clouds as far as the horizon.
Dorian was wearing the ornate tunic he had packed with his belongings, his business suit feeling woefully inadequate for the evening's festivities. This one had a gold vest overlapping the teal similar to the one he had worn when first awakening in Asgard. It spread outward as it went up to emphasize his shoulders and per much of his other attires had nature-themed designs of black throughout. For extra flair it had a silver cloak trailing behind that went slightly past his waist. The normally furred-shoulders had been foregone due to the temperate climate of Olympus.
"Escape attempt failed."
Dorian jumped slightly as Thrud came up from behind; emerging from the same entrance he had snuck out from. She was still wearing her golden dress though had opted to keep her bracers on to cover most of the remaining bandages.
Just like the first day I woke up in Asgard.
"The dress suits you."
"Well that goes without saying," she replied half-playfully half serious. "So…what did you do?"
"Beg pardon?"
Thrud raised an eyebrow. "Rossweisse is in there giddy as a schoolgirl over the secrets of Olympian magic being literally dropped into her lap yet you are out here staring at that moon that is surely planning a nefarious attack any moment now."
Dorian turned back around.
"I just need some space, a few days no more."
"And why is that?"
"Just…I just do."
Sighing loudly, Thrud approached, leaning on the stone railing beside him. "She was there wasn't she?" Dorian wasn't even surprised she had deduced the source of his anxiousness, lowering his head he nodded.
"A whole lifetime Thrud, and it didn't happen. It feels so…strange. The memories are fading but I still remember the years. I remember what we did, our kids, the arthritis at the end, yet now I'm a teenager again. When they are gone I'll be back to normal, I promise. I don't want to…do or say anything I shouldn't out of habit."
"You're overthinking it."
"What?"
"You're worried about saying something because you care about her TOO much and don't want her to know? Would her hearing that be such a bad thing?"
What am I saying?
"I would prefer to know that it's real," he admitted. "And not just the result of Elysium, who knows what part of me that place taps into when creating the future."
"That's no reason to hide from her," Thrud pushed despite herself. "Those kind of answers come from the heart, not the head. Don't you want to learn an entire new magic alongside her? If you don't she might go to someone else."
Dorian glanced over at the daughter of Thor, unable to hold back a smile at her insistence. She meant well, she always did.
"I guess I should be grateful I wasn't there," she chuckled. "Otherwise you'd be avoiding me like the plague too."
"Well…I never said you weren't there." An image of her in a stunning wedding dress still fresh in his mind and the memories that accompanied her presence, however brief.
Thrud paled in embarrassment at the unexpected revelation. "What, do you mean we were…?"
"Ow ow ow, hey watch the mask!"
The two spun, a very guilty-looking Bennia was being led by her ear as Rossweisse dragged her from the shadow with Hecuba walking alongside them.
Dorian had taken a seat far from the thrifty Valkyrie during the feast and had not realized since the ceremony she had changed into a silvery-white Olympian gown. The dress clung to her frame as tightly as Thrud's, the two filling out their chosen attire more perfectly than any other could have. Unknown to him, it had been a request from Aphrodite who insisted she wear it for the night instead of her business suit and would not take no for an answer. It took great effort to lock his eyes onto hers to attempt to limit his staring.
Hecuba wore the same gown he had spotted her in at the observatory; her hair tied up into twin ponytails and intertwined with each other down her back. She looked as serious as ever.
Bennia had chosen a slightly more modest dress than the others matching her Grim Reaper robes. Though that was not saying much by Olympian standards as while her chest was fully covered, it still left a slit at the side to reveal her legs and left her back bare.
"I-I wasn't doing anything, honest!"
"You were eavesdropping," Rossweisse accused correctly. "I don't care if…Thrud, Dorian!" Only then did she realize who Bennia had been listening in on.
"Hi Rose," Dorian breathed deep, restoring his composure. "You look lovely."
"What about me? It took me thirty minutes to get into this thing!"
"You too Bennia…and you Hecuba," the Spartan nodded appreciatively. "But what are you doing out here?"
"I was just enjoying the fresh air!"
"From behind a bush skulking in the shadows?" Hecuba pointed out as Rossweisse finally released her.
"Skulking is what I do!" She pointed at her skull mask she brought as if attending a masquerade as evidence. "Grim Reaper remember?"
Dorian barely held back a stifled laugh at the pun noticed by everyone.
"How fortuitous, everyone is gathered this night."
The five stood up straight at the inclusion of Freyja approaching, Allfather Odin beside her. They were as radiant as possible, seeming to glow in the light of the moon as the gods they were. Dorian could not help but notice they were holding hands, a rarity back in Asgard.
"Everyone my lady?" Thrud asked, taking note of everyone present.
"Of course, the two volunteers of Olympus as well as my top three choices for the cross-mythology task force all in one place. I had intended to announce this on the morrow, but now feels just right. Please, step forward.
The five complied, standing side-by side before the goddess of Asgard from whom the idea of such a coalition had spawned.
"Hecuba, Bennia, you two volunteered your services for this cause and for that I will ever be grateful. May the two of you stand proud in representation of your people."
The two straightened taller than ever, a hint of pride on Hecuba's face and far more noticeable on Bennia's.
"And you three," she turned to the others. "Have served faithfully and well, even you Mr. Held though your time amongst us has been brief in comparison. If you desire it, I would like to formally invite each of you to join them for the good of Asgard, Olympus…and beyond."
"Of course," Thrud asserted.
"I accept gladly," Rossweisse nodded with a sparkle in her eye, just imagining the possible working benefits capable between multiple pantheons.
Dorian was the last, only hesitating a moment at the idea of what lay before him. Lady Freyja had spoken in brief to him of her dream of the various myths working together. Not only that, but Iggy and Yggdrasil both shared the same desire, to bring all together. The alignments were too much to be pure coincidence, it felt…right.
"I owe you…everything. I will do all in my power to help this force succeed," his smile widened. "I hope we can live up to your hopes for the future."
"Of that I have no doubt," the goddess of life answered truthfully. "Much will need to be considered and built in the days to come, we don't even have a name for it yet. But until then, leadership shall be governed by both parties. Should this grow, a more direct leader will need to be chosen to avoid bureaucratic delays. Dorian, Rossweisse, you two shall retain your current posts as retainer and bodyguard until such time that duties call you elsewhere. Until then, enjoy tonight, you and all present have more than earned it."
Dorian turned to Rossweisse smiling like a little kid but he couldn't help it. So much had happened that he pushed the uncertainties aside; such things could be considered later.
"Perhaps, we could look over that book of yours Rose," he offered with surety of voice despite all that was swirling in his mind. "Might be something good in there."
Her eyes practically turned into stars as she answered, "O-of course! Come, I think I have already come up with a basic combination formula!" She gripped Dorian by the hand, half dragging him inside, stopping only as she felt a twinge of resistance.
"Thrud," he turned with a smile with an inviting hand offered. "Perhaps you'd like to join us?"
The goddess of thunder blinked several times in confusion before allowing her features to soften, taking his hand and squeezing tight.
"Of course, who knows…maybe we'll find some other magic in there I can actually stand."
As the five made their way back inside, Odin and Freyja found themselves joined by Zeus who seemed to come from nowhere. He had a look of understanding on his face.
"He is the boy?"
"He is," Odin answered. "From the day we found him it was clear that no one mythology could claim him. A biblical weapon powered by a seed of Yggdrasil, and now as we speak a spark of your people's land has left its mark within him."
"Did you tell him yet?"
"No, he will need experience and growth to ensure he not only desires the post…but that he is up to it."
"My lips are sealed then," The King of Olympus assured her. "Hades is raging that he should be returned to Elysium, but I can keep him in check."
"And our friends in the Grigori?"
"Azazel will be sending a representative to assist with locating this Kokabiel Forcas mentioned; he will be awaiting you back in Asgard."
"We shall welcome him graciously, Dorian spoke with the Brigade's general more than anyone…he can supply the most information."
"The lad's request before my throne was quite…unique. I for one feel you could not have picked a better candidate to one day command our force of justice across the realms…"
The Siege of Olympus has been lifted, a new time of cooperation born between the Greek and Norse Pantheons. Amidst the agreement, a new force is created to uphold order and justice between the factions and any others who wish to join in the future. Dorian's power grows as he becomes strong enough to protect his new family…and seek the powers behind the theft of Hrotti at long last…
I hope everyone enjoyed the 2nd major arc of Roots of Hope, at this time there will be a temporary hiatus in order to plan the next arcs and update other projects. Do not worry as this story WILL continue. :D
As the next arc will segue into canon, I wanted to take a moment and see what my readers think on Dorian's inclusion with the main cast. I had two questions I wanted to see where everyone stands. Feel free to either respond via Personal Message or worked in as a Review, whichever you prefer. :D
1.) Are you hoping/expecting Dorian to have a harem/2+ relationship or to remain a one-woman man?
2.) Dorian will always have his own stories, but I wanted to see whether you guys wanted him to have a large part in canon events or to stay mostly clear. Regardless, his presence in the world will affect canon events and character relationships for changes from what readers of the books/watchers of the anime will know.
A HUGE thanks again to everyone who has been reading my tale. You are the ones who make writing this so enjoyable and worthwhile. Until next time I hope everyone Reads and Reviews…but most of all ENJOYS! :D