Jwebb96: They are quite fun to write…as are Bennia's interactions. They don't showcase her nearly enough in canon.
Sakra95: Lol, well he will be meeting the unknown daughter soon enough, not much longer to wait. That is so true, Thor is in the top 10 strongest beings of DxD and while Baraqiel is no pushover, he isn't a god either. I hope you enjoy this new chapter of calm relaxation…for the most part.
Ahsoei: Right you are, Dorian made a touch of a mistranslation and learns the error while also realizing he wasn't along in the mistake.
DJDrake: Additional fluff in 3…2…1…
AJR3333: Your wish is granted…
FenrisFiltiarn: Our little grim reaper is a big bundle of energy, makes you wonder what would happen if she and Rat joined forces. With any luck, Thrud will be able to keep her father's competitive tendencies in check…at least the violent ones. xD
Bulletmonk: Not at any one specific part of the story. I've made it a point to scatter his description throughout. Such as mentioning his toned muscular, yet not overly bulky body type, he is over six feet tall. He has golden hair about shoulder length with 2 braids now as of the latest chapter on either side of his face and grey eyes.
Guest1: That means so much to hear, if only I could write so quickly xD. A bit of a sneak peek, not in his balance breaker alas…but I am having an art commission done of Thrud, Rossweisse and Dorian standing together. Once the artist finishes I will make it the cover page of the story.
fanficcyberman: I most certainly will, thank you for the kind words!
Guest2: Thank you! Fortunately Aphrodite spoke the truth that the memories would fade into his subconscious. They are still there…but no longer at the forefront of his mind. As for the dreams of fire and destructions, those are a mystery for another time. ;)
Raines56: I am so glad you've been enjoying it! It is true, he tries to be such a gentleman at this point he stifles his own love life…if only he could see that he need not worry about rejection or insulting the women he loves by going for it. ;D. A Cross-Mythology Task force and Cross-Mythology wives? An interesting thought…
Rossweisse focused intently, carefully etching a final line of the delicate seal into the metal of the object in her hand. She had been working on it since breakfast and was so near to completion she could taste it. At last she had perfected several magic circles infused with Olympian magic and was near to completing an amulet that, if her calculations were correct, would add protection from various schools of magic.
The tome had been very detailed with spells ranging from crop-growth to petrification. She'd turned three coffee cups and an admittedly beloved novel to stone before finally getting the counter-formula right.
"Aaaannnnd…done," she sighed as she finished the circle, leaning back to flex her sore fingers. The hard part done, she locked the amulet shut with the required ingredients inside to ensure the desired effects.
Minor to moderate defense against several elements AND my first attempt to prevent petrification…it saved my last mug. The closed circuit should equal and cancel out any spell channeled on the same wavelength up to…
The young Valkyrie's eyes fell to a simple charm bracelet lying across the table she had nearly forgotten about. She was thankful to have been alone as it had been a project born from curiosity and shame. The uses of Olympian magic were many and while flipping through the tome she discovered several focusing specifically on improving ones love and sex life. In a moment of weakness she had attempted to emulate a simple charm meant to make one more appealing to a particular individual. The Valkyrie who'd never had a boyfriend couldn't admit to anyone, even herself, whom she had attuned it to.
It was foolish, immature and…inappropriate of me to make such a device. I should get rid of it.
Rossweisse seized the questionable charm, however as she made her way to the trash a knock at the door interrupted her destructive thoughts. With a half-frustrated groan she placed it within a pocket of her lounge pants. As it was a day off she had foregone her suit for a fashionable yet affordable loose short-sleeved jersey and comfortable lounge pants.
"Coming!" She called out as she rushed to the door, opening it with an ever welcoming smile on her face.
"Good Morning Rose!" Dorian greeted cheerily seconds before the door slammed quickly shut once more.
IT WORKED!
A few awkward moments of shuffling could be heard within before Rossweisse opened the door again this time wearing a heavy hoodie over her jersey and leaned around so he couldn't see the pants she was wearing. She didn't mind most people seeing her in a more laid back light, but she didn't want him to…not yet.
"G-good morning," she greeted back, keeping the inside of her house hidden from view. Her living room was an absolute mess from her research and tests. "What brings you here? I am…unprepared to study today."
Dorian did his best to pretend that the previous actions hadn't occurred and continued as usual.
"Well, the Allfather granted me the day, and the other girls talked about going to the festival, so I was hoping…"
It worked, it worked, it worked, it worked…
"I was really hoping that maybe you'd like to go, I even let Rat out to enjoy, Misty has been going on about a play of hers and there are a bunch of…"
"Yes!" Rossweisse cleared her throat at the spur of the moment answer, recomposing herself before the young man. "I would love to join you; I have naught else planned this day. Just give me a few moments to get dressed, if you could…"
"I can wait out here, it is no trouble," he assured her. "Take your time."
With a nod of appreciation, the off-duty Valkyrie closed the door. As soon as she could no longer be seen she raced for the bedroom, mind racing on what to do.
What is appropriate? A suit, no no far too professional, this is a casual setting. Would a dress be too much? It was a tad chilly, was he wearing a coat? Oh this is wrong, he is surely only here as a result of the charm. I should never have made it. Well, I can always get rid of it tonight, just to see if it works of course…
Not too long later…
Dorian hopped back and forth from foot to foot with his hands in his pockets in order to keep warm. Despite being spring on Midgard, there was a nip in the air in Asgard but was nothing he couldn't handle. He had gotten creative with his chosen attire in the effort to fend off the cold yet remain comfortable. For pants he had chosen simple yet snug blue jeans while just above he retained one of the gold tunics provided by Lady Freyja. Over that he wore a short fur-collared grey pea coat topped off by a red and gold scarf recommended by Hecuba.
Despite his clothes, it would have been nice to be in a place of warmth but he was certain Rossweisse had a good reason to want privacy; it was not his place to pry. It certainly wouldn't take much long...
The door to her home swung open at last as the young woman slipped out, ensuring to lock the door behind her.
"Perfect, we can head…out…"
Dorian had to slow down as his brain processed Rossweisse's chosen garb for the day. She was wearing a long-sleeved deep purple sweater dress that stopped modestly just above her knees with her legs covered by warm black leggings. In addition, she had a tan button-up coat for warmth, pulling the collar up somewhat to keep out the chill. Unbeknownst to him, she had the charm strapped to her wrist hidden up a sleeve. He was certain he'd never seen her in such a refined yet casual outfit. Ironically he'd seen the far spectrum when Thrud had claimed his towel back in Olympus…
Dorian slapped himself to snap back to reality, playing it off as a means to stay warm.
"You look…lovely," he complimented truthfully, always sounding like a broken record when around her.
"And you are quite dashing," she replied in a rare moment of boldness. "Did you have an itinerary planned?"
Of course she'd ask that. He held up a daily schedule of the festival with favorites and preferred events circled numerically based on interest. Her return smile gave away how proud she was at his preparation.
"We can change if you see anything that catches your eye," he started as they walked side-by side towards the grounds set aside for the revels. "Thrud said she'd be around and Bennia just sort of disappeared. If I know Hecuba, the first event she'll be at is sure to be…"
The Festival Grounds…
The Spartan woman stared down the grinding wheel she was currently seated at, it wasn't the perfected instruments of Olympus, but it would do. After Dorian left to request Rossweisse's presence, she and Bennia had gone ahead lest she miss the early morning event, knife-making. Though Bennia had split off upon arrival, Hecuba was dead-set on competing. The participants ranging from all the nine realms had been tasked with creating the finest perfectly balanced yet functional blade possible within a four hour time limit. The work would take up much of the day and lead into the afternoon but was well worth it.
She had left the house with a simple red sweater and brown jeans, her deep red coat and gold scarf were lying at the entrance due to the heat of the flames. Her sleeves were rolled up and she did her best to keep sweat from dripping onto her attire though it was inevitable to an extent.
Each contestant was given permission to craft a knife of their choosing without restriction of type or length. Hecuba had selected a 5th century B.C. dagger similar to those used in the ancient Peloponnesian Wars. The short yet wide design bent inward at the middle was indicative of Trojan-make that had survived beyond the city's destruction. Her grandfather often spoke of his pride at hailing from such an ancient yet lost civilization despite their now-mixed heritage. Finally content with her work, she pulled it back from the wheel to judge it herself.
The metal shined brightly, allowing her reflection to be seen up to the hilt. Of the available materials made ready for the contest she had selected a chunk of red gold for decoration overlaying the reinforced material housing the blade. Had she more time she could have made it more ornate, but for the purpose of the contest this would have to do as she was near out of time.
"Hammers, chisels, bellows and other instruments down," the overseeing giant roared as he eyed for any attempting last second alterations. "Cool them if need be then bring your work forth for inspection."
One by one the contestants brought their creations forth to be judged. Each one was expertly made, yet only those of perfect quality remained for the finals. The first was an elven smith from Alfheim who had utilized light-touched steel in his craft. The weapon glimmered with an unchecked radiance, forcing the giant to don dark goggles to look it over. While the craftsmanship was superb, it was poorly balanced and slid from his finger during the test.
Cinquedeas, dirks, Jambiyas, and other unique daggers ranging from around the realms were shown off. Each one was judged in terms of quality, balance, durability and sharpness. Many were found wanting in one of these traits or were poor due to the rush to complete them. As the line slowly dwindled, it was Hecuba's turn being the final contender. As with the previous, it was meticulously scrutinized and reviewed. He succeeded in chopping the nearby log in twain with a single slash yet no blemish or dent could be found across it afterwards. The blacksmith smiled at the quality and superb balance.
"I have never viewed Olympian craftsmanship firsthand," he spoke at length. "Truly, only yourself and this one pass each requirement with flawless marks."
He motioned towards a dwarf to the side who had been further up the line from her. He barely came up to her chest and was quite stout even for one of his people. He had a grey-blue beard that went down to his belt but not a single follicle of hair could be found on his head which was currently covered by a silver hat with a lone gold feather inside.
"Otr's the name," he introduced himself with a shake of the hand and a tip of his cap. "Tis a right pleasure to be facing against a skilled lass such as yerself."
"Likewise," Hecuba bowed politely.
"I must admit, I'm at a loss," the large blacksmith muttered as he scratched his head. "You both passed each of my tests with flying colors. Perhaps I should devise a new one…"
"If I may interject without being rude," Otr remarked. "But I believe mine is the superior in balance."
"Why do you say that? You were both perfect."
"Oh aye they were with the standard test, but mayhaps you should try one a bit more…advanced."
The giant leaned back, crossing his hands as if worried he was being mocked.
"Explain."
"Balance it on the tip."
Hecuba and the giant scrunched their faces in confusion; surely such balance to allow a dagger to stand upon its tip was impossible.
"If'n they match again feel free to decide any tie breaker yer heart desires."
Shrugging upon seeing no harm in the attempt, the judge took Hecuba's and placed it atop the table. The expert balance held out longer than most, however it still toppled over, falling on its side across the metal slab. Next, he took Otr's, a straight Norse dagger of excellent make; somehow he had found time to make the ornate handle similar to Hecuba's desire. As before, he placed it tip-down. To their shock and the dwarf's beaming pride, the dagger stood. They waited seconds, and then over a minute yet it never showed signs of a single wobble. The equity of the metal was so pristine and perfect to a supernatural degree that it perfectly stood upon the tip.
"Welp, no maybes about that, winner goes to Otr."
"That was…extraordinary," Hecuba admitted her utter defeat. "Such precision and balance should be impossible and beyond miraculous with but a mere four hours to complete the work."
"I thank ye for yer kind words, Miss…?"
"Hecuba of Olympus," she introduced herself with a polite bow. The old dwarf's eyes went wide at her name; reaching out again he took her hand and proceeded to shake it vigorously.
"The lady of Olympus serving with the young Mr. Held who bested Modi? Tis an honor lass, I had no idea I was competing against such a woman of esteem."
"I am no one of worth, truly," she attempted to dissuade his adoration to no avail.
"But you are! To serve alongside an embodiment of the world tree herself and to work alongside so many…honored mythologies." The dwarf held out the knife which had won him first place and presented it to her. "Please take it, I insist!"
"I couldn't take such a mastercrafted…"
"Pish posh, I can make a dozen more back home. But the chance to aid the betterment of our people even in a small way would be a great honor. Please, it is Asgardian-steel forged, a finer grip you'll never see and blessed with Mistletoe oil for good luck so it will not miss the chosen mark easily. If ya donna accept it, I'll be crushed!"
"I…suppose I cannot refuse if it means that much to you," Hecuba hesitantly accepted the prize-winning dagger at the absolutely desperate expression in the old man's eyes, looking over its immaculate design.
"A thousand thank yous," Otr bowed. "May it become an heirloom of your house for generations of many healthy children to come!"
Hecuba hid a blush at the thought of a family and children, such ideas had been pushed away long ago upon choosing the path of a warrior.
"And may you forge many more surpassing even its brilliance," she replied as he half-danced his way out of the smithy.
"Um…sir," the blacksmith called out though the dwarf was already out the door. "He forgot his prize money…"
Hecuba rushed outside the steaming tent into the chilly air calling out Otr's name, yet by the time she had reached the flaps he was gone. She looked every way he could have run yet he had vanished into thin air.
He was so blinded by adoration he neglected his prize; Hecuba stared down at the dagger finer than any weapon she'd ever held save Monster's Bane itself from Echidna's flesh and bone. Such a work is surely a gift from the gods…
"Well," the burly giant sighed as she returned empty handed. "If ye don't mind waiting we can see if he realizes his mistake and comes back, otherwise the prize money is all yours."
Not Far…
Oh what fun, the portly dwarf hummed to himself as he skipped along the tents bristling with attendees. A seed planted early in secret has time to sprout unnoticed.
Like a mirage lifting from the eyes of a dying man, his stout belly shimmered and sucked in, adding to his height until he stood as tall as any man. The blue of his beard receded to replace the baldness on his head until a great slicked back wave of hair took shape. His common tunic and clothes turned inside out and burst into those more befitting a god of Asgard.
Pride, the god of mischief smirked to himself as he melded into the crowd with none noticing his transformation. Ever the downfall of the purest heart in any mythology…or the most beloved.
On the Opposite Side of the Festival…
While Hecuba was deep in the construction of her dagger, Dorian and Rossweisse had elected for a simpler, more laid back event. Attendees were provided with a sturdy yet plain wooden shield and appropriate tools to carve into it. The idea was to create whatever art they wished to take as a memento of the day. Neither one had any skill in the craft yet had elected to try it together nonetheless. The young Valkyrie had selected what she knew best, an ornate magic circle and the first of the elemental seals her grandmother had taught her as a child. Dorian sat staring at his blank canvas, utterly baffled what he could make.
I'm going to butcher anything I try, he sighed as the options entered his mind. Twilight Star? If I tried long enough I might make it look like a tooth pick, maybe an actual rose…
"Do you need assistance young man?" The elf-woman running the event asked at his lack of progress. She had long dull-blonde hair as straight as was possible and wore a thin white dress despite the temperatures beyond her tarps. A pair of pointed ears on either side of her face drew Dorian's attention though he tried not to stare. She smiled serenely as she genuinely wished to help.
"I…have no skill," Dorian chose his words. "Anything I think of to make feels like I could not do it justice."
"Something simple then," she offered. "Has anything held your attention as of late?" She glanced over at Rossweisse with a suggestive grin Dorian caught immediately.
"I don't think I could pull off her beauty," the young Valkyrie overheard and started blushing with embarrassment and shame at the belief her charm was responsible for such words.
"What…about that dream of yours?" Rossweisse offered, hoping to learn more of the mysterious visions. "You did say it was quite vivid."
"I'm not sure I want to put that to form," he half chuckled but Rossweisse's look of curiosity was unabated. "It was more a nightmare than a dream."
"Art comes in many forms," the elf-woman instructed. "If we do not wish something to be within us, perhaps it is best to release it in another form. Let me help you bring it out."
Dorian thought on it a moment, considering her wisdom and that if he messed up such a terrifying scene he wouldn't necessarily mind. Finally determined, he nodded to her. She offered a hand and placed it on Dorian's shoulders. A soft light emerged from the fingertips, making his now-hazy dream clear as day for the next few moments. Such was a skill of those born amid the light of Alfheim.
The images became more prevalent in his mind as he thought of them, his hands moving on their own. The fire, the utter devastation and end to all that there was and beyond. Dorian soon found himself standing once more among the rubble, a place he did not want to be. Despite being surrounded by flames, he could not feel the heat which only served to unsettle him further.
He recognized the Palace of Asgard, the towers crumbled and in ruins, none of the entryways were accessible anymore. Slowly, he started making out figures crumpled to the ground he did not recognize. A young man with brown hair covered in shattered crimson armor, women in oddly familiar uniforms similarly crumpled around him, Dorian looked away before seeing any more details.
"Iggy? Can you see this?" He called out but received no answer. The entity inhabiting his Sacred Gear refused to tread into that warzone, remaining in the conscious portions of his psyche.
Dorian traversed the barren landscape, the once vibrant fields of the gods now dead and lifeless. He passed more signs of the devastation, a red dragon of immense size sprawled out and slain, a little girl with black hair lying in its outstretched hand.
There has to be someone alive…somewhere!
As the thought became less and less likely, Dorian found himself running into a sturdy wall that wasn't there a moment ago, knocking him to the ground. It did not feel like a normal structure, upon closer inspection it seemed to be covered in immense thick scales.
And then Dorian craned his neck upward, eyes widening in terror.
It was not a wall he had struck, but the toe of a creature…a monster to put all others to shame. It towered over him, so high he could barely see the top as the scales gave way to fur, feathers and other characteristics of a dozen different animals. He could make out four arms leading to the seven heads and no two were alike. He counted ten horns as the first head caught wind of his presence.
FLEE DORIAN! YOU ARE NOT MEANT TO BE HERE YET!
The young Einherjar felt an incredible pull dragging him backwards faster than Thor's chariot. With a blast of air he suddenly found himself back in the tent, shield in hand though he quickly realized only one of his hands was gripping the cold wood while the other was…warm.
"Dorian, Dorian can you hear me?" Rossweisse asked, her hands gripping his tightly in an attempt to pull him back to reality which may well have been the only thing that tethered him home.
"I am…okay Rose," he gasped. Despite the images he had seen, he felt calmer as if a burden had been eased from his shoulders. "It was just so real. Where is…?"
The elf-woman had taken several steps back, gripping her shaking hand with the other. She must have seen at least sensed part of what he had experienced as she looked considerably unnerved.
"Your dream was…quite tempered," she finally chose her words. "The detail and expressiveness was so lifelike as to..." As she finally refocused her vision she looked down at Dorian's shield, his and Rossweisse's eyes following.
Dorian released a gasp upon noticing that his shield was now covered from top to bottom in a full mural that his hands had accomplished while his mind had been withdrawn within itself. It had no color, but the details had been chiseled into the shield depicting a great beast with two stout legs, four arms and seven heads facing them menacingly. He could barely describe the heads as they each retained characteristics of multiple creatures yet did not appear to be of any one. He could make out snouts of a wolf, teeth of bears, dragon scales, even leopard skin with too many to count. Around it, carvings were made to look like flames encircling the bulwark's borders. Dorian was entirely sure it would be impossible for him to replicate such a piece even were he given a hundred years to perfect it.
It's true, Rossweisse gasped in her mind as she attempted to retain her composure. He is dreaming of the Trihexa! No doubt about it! She wanted to grab Dorian by his shoulders and ask him everything he knew, how tall was it? What were its features? What powers did it exhibit? Only her caring for his well-being held back her curiosity as he was still dabbing sweat from his brow. Recounting the dream even just for a piece of art appeared taxing. She felt guilty even more so at the thought of trying to bring it up again. Dorian noticed her expression, misunderstanding the intent of her thoughts.
"Do you like it?" He asked, spotting how transfixed her gaze was upon the shield in his hands.
"I…yes, it is…amazing work." She tried to hide her obsession with the image, something she had theorized and studied for years yet never found the slightest hint of evidence for.
And he dreams of it so clearly.
"In that case," Dorian presented the shield to her. "I would love for you to have it."
Another effect of the charm? Even with her hesitation, her inner scholar would not allow the refusal of such a gift.
"I accept," she took the shield, looking over the design. She was already wondering what information could be gleamed from the appearance that she could add to the essay she had started on the idea of such a creature long ago. "I don't know what to say."
"You don't have to say anything," Dorian gripped her hand still holding his tightly. He did not know how she could like such a terrifying image, but if it made her happy he didn't need to know.
"I can hold onto it for the duration of the festival," the elf-woman offered. "I can even paint it for you if you'd like."
"I would!" Rossweisse blurted out. "It would be quite difficult to carry this about the festival. We can return for it after the play, it is one of Thrud's favorites."
Rossweisse only then realized she hadn't seen her childhood friend since the previous day nor had they discussed what she would be doing before the performance. It would be a shame if they could not all make it.
"We can keep an eye out; Misty said the performance isn't until later in the afternoon."
"You go on ahead," Rossweisse assured him, wanting to look over the shield further. "I'll look for her as well and meet up with you at the theatre."
"Sounds like a plan, I'll probably be bouncing from stall to stall myself," he laughed. Somehow having the image out of his head even for a brief time had brought Dorian's spirits back up. With a last squeeze he released Rossweisse's hand and ducked out of the tent having a few ideas where Thrud may have been staying.
"So, my star pupil is out on a date?"
Rossweisse spun with a turn at the familiar voice of her elder Valkyrie, the chief of her order Brynhildr herself stood behind her within the tent apparently also having been present.
"It is…a-an outing of colleagues," she bowed politely, suddenly becoming her normal professional self at work. Such was the effect her senior Valkyrie and former teacher had on the young woman.
"With an exchange of gifts?" She eyed the shield suspiciously to which Rossweisse quickly handed it off to the elven attendant. "Be careful Rossweisse lest you become as perverted as the Allfather."
"I would never!" She asserted again. Unlike herself, it always seemed that Brynhildr was ever serious without an off-switch in terms of her official demeanor.
"I should certainly hope not, you have time to spare do you not? I would love to hear how my prized pupil has been doing since she left my service. How you deal with our Allfather every day is a testament to your patience. The last dozen did not last half as long."
The two Valkyries continued discussing their posts as they left, leaving the elven attendant standing there with the shield in hand. A chill ran up her spine at the image upon it and the fact she would be painting it before their return. She placed it in the corner to work on later, but not before turning it around so the terrifying visage etched upon it was facing the wall.
Festival Tavern…
"I am…*hic* NOT a god!"
Dorian stopped walking at the rather loud pronouncement as he passed one of the MANY drinking stations set up for the festival. This one was little more than a massive tent set up amid the field. Fully recognizing the voice, he slipped inside out of sheer curiosity.
Inside looked like an ancient battlefield of old, bodies of men and women, young and old were strewn across the floor. Each one was groaning, gripping their foreheads as the poor decisions leading them to the contest that day swirling in their minds. Only two remained sitting, staring each other down with determination while a third stood by looking absolutely embarrassed.
The daughter of thunder had dressed warm as well, opting for a matching grey pant and long-sleeve shirt combo overlaid with a furred gold and silver vest. Her bracers and boots matched the color scheme of the vest and a rather large furred cloak that could have fit three of Dorian beneath lying out across a nearby chair.
"Dorian," Thrud beckoned him closer, requesting silence so they would not notice he was there. "Please tell me you weren't planning to challenge father as well? The barkeep advises me they are nearly out of…everything."
Dorian quickly shook his head with vigor to express how completely AGAINST that idea he was, eliciting a sigh of relief from her.
"I was the Lightning OF God, not the God of Lightning."
Thor and Baraqiel were surrounded by the largest empty beer steins Dorian had ever seen; it was no wonder all other challengers had been drunk under the table. How either could even see straight was a complete mystery.
"So…you were not the god, but the weapon of your god?" Thor spoke slowly, the pieces clearly falling into place in his mind. "That…sounds…magnificent!" You were an instrument of his wrath! I am certain the intimidation felt by his foes is far lesser with your departure from his hallowed halls!"
"I've been chaperoning him all morning," Thrud explained. "Apparently he made a translation error and thought Baraqiel was a god who wielded lightning rather than one who wielded lightning for his god. Can you imagine him making such a simple mistake?"
"Not at all," Dorian replied flatly, praying Thrud could not read minds at his same error he'd thought the previous day.
"Thrud! Another!" Thor proclaimed as he slammed his latest empty mug down.
"Come now," Baraqiel interrupted with glazed over eyes. "I am certain we can find the rest…somewhere around here. Let your daughter go out and enjoy the day."
"Or she could join us!" He turned with a triumphant smile, only then realizing Dorian had entered the room. "Hail Mr. Held! Come and partake in the challenge of cups as well, I hear you bested Ragnar at the battle of drinks and amorous tributes."
"I…would be honored," Dorian scrambled for a reply to the strongest warrior in Asgard sitting before him. "But, it would not be an acceptable challenge as I am joining so late. I must face you at your best or it will not be meaningful."
Thrud winked towards him with a thumbs up, complimenting his choice of vernacular.
"A pity, a pity," Thor lamented before turning to his little girl. "I suppose your mother will find me in time, fear not the state of your elder and go forth." The red-haired giant of a man pointed outside the tent with a new glass, very nearly tipping over from the effort. "Wilst your beloved be joining us this fair day of merriment?" He had noticed the wedding band on the fallen angel's finger.
"My wife…passed long ago," Baraqiel answered slowly, the many drinks having no effect on the lamentation etched upon his face though loosened his tongue somewhat.
Utter silence fell between them at his words, after the uncertain seconds, Thor got to his feet, shambling over to his drinking partner. In a swift motion he unexpectedly grabbed the grizzled man, pulling him to his feet and into a powerful back-breaking hug.
"I am so sorry for your loss my friend!" Manly tears fell from his cheeks. "I cannot imagine your sorrow even after all this time!" Thrud stepped forward to pull them apart but Dorian stopped her, noticing the confused but softened expression of Baraqiel. "If aught ever happened to my treasured Sif…"
Thrud's father released the Grigori representative, raising a glass high.
"Had I but known, we could have done this for each drink bested, but let us make this one and all that follow to her!"
Baraqiel hardly knew how to react; even Dorian and Thrud claimed smaller glasses nearby and raised them high. After a moment he let a sour smile twist his lips from the frown that had claimed them, also raising one high.
"To our beloveds and what we have to remember them by!" Thor proclaimed before downing the stein in a single gulp."
"To Shuri and Sif…and our respective daughters," Baraqiel agreed before following suit. "May they know our love no matter how near or far they reside."
Thrud and Dorian drank high, the young Einherjar barely stifling his gag reflex at the liquid fire that went down his throat setting his nerves aflame. Somehow he succeeded in suppressing it down to a few quiet coughs, Thrud helped pat him on the back to clear his airways, she herself had not been affected by the concoction in the slightest.
They've been drinking THAT all day? The drink was many times worse than the ones shared between him and Ragnar. He doubted he could have downed even a single stein filled with such a poison regardless of how many pronouncements to Rossweisse's beauty he thought of.
Thrud approached her father, laying a comforting hand on his broad shoulders.
"I'll make sure mother knows where to find you," she assured him. "I'll step out for the day."
Thor turned; rising from his seat he gripped his daughter with one arm and Dorian with the other, pulling them in. The two unsuspecting warriors were squished together against him, their faces pressed together even tighter than they had been in the cave.
"I am so fortunate to have you as a daughter!" He bellowed, ignoring Dorian's presence despite having forcibly included him.
"Sorry," Thrud whispered as the two were unable to escape the giant's grip.
"Don't…be," he muttered as he was sure he could feel bones straining from the pressure. He could barely appreciate the fact that one of the most beautiful women in Asgard in his eyes was pressed securely against him.
"Enjoy your merriment you two," he cried out, still sobbing over Baraqiel's sorrow. "Do whatever makes you both as happy as possible!"
Once released from the embrace, the two departed the tent, Dorian cracking his back in relief of the appreciated freedom. Thrud had donned her impressively large cloak made from dire-wolf fur; in that moment she could easily have been mistaken for an ancient barbarian queen.
"He gets that way after one too many drinks," Thrud explained, "…or ten."
"He's far more…open than I imagined of Thor."
"He says it's a result of mother's influence," Thrud chuckled as they started walking out into the fields. "All the stories you are likely aware of happened long before I was born."
"I guess family changes you whether you realize it or not," Dorian thought out loud between Thor's changes from his more barbaric self in myth and Baraqiel's brief mention of his own family. He did not notice Thrud's face soften, remembering her discussion with Freyja the previous day.
Lets keep making memories with your family here...
"They really can," she reached out, taking his hand and pulling. "Come, we have to see the Thjalfi-Ras! It has a rather interesting story behind it that my father cringes at each time it is told…"
Palace of Asgard…
"More?" Odin offered his guest.
"Please," Zepar accepted the cup of tea and took a hesitant sip until it sufficiently cooled.
"You work fast, I expected weeks before we heard anything more."
"Were it not for a considerable coincidence it could have been far longer than even that," Zepar explained. "It turned out that a town my lord has eyes on was the destination of many exorcists that have mysteriously disappeared in recent days."
"Connected to the stolen holy blades?"
"No doubt remains, though they have gone to great lengths to obscure the weapon identities. Thus far none of the agents they sent have reported back or been seen openly since. If they are indeed tied to those who broke into Asgard's vault they are quite powerful to deal with so many trained fighters."
"Even more so if they broke the seal on Hrotti's powers," Odin sighed, his usual playful manor suppressed in light of such a turn of events. "If they can access Fafnir's hoard…"
"The town is located within Devil territory. I highly doubt they will be very pleased at an outside mythology wishing access to their sphere of influence, even less so once learning their enemies have been doing the same under their noses."
"My Frigga is acquaintances with the family's Matriarch, no doubt she can pull a few strings for us. I am certain a small force will not be minded amid such well-protected lands. This town must be important to be under the watchful eyes of the Grigori."
"It…was not under the observation of the Grigori, just my lord Baraqiel," Zepar shifted uncomfortably.
"Oh?" Odin leaned forward, very interested in what could unnerve someone as unshakable as Baraqiel's aide. "Anything we should know?"
"A personal matter I assure you, that particular area, the Gremory Household specifically, protects my lord's most cherished treasure."
Odin nodded in understanding, waving a hand to silently assure him that no more need be said.
"You and your lord's assistance have been greatly appreciated. We will of course work to return the favor, of that you have my word."
Zepar tipped his cup of tea with a nod before finishing the last of it with the ease and grace the Allfather had come to expect from their guests.
"Lord Azazel quite enjoys working with your people; Mr. Held's Sacred Gear has only increased his fascination. He is very focused on such topics."
"I have no doubt, he has good taste in our night-time outing locations," Odin smiled once more as he allowed some room to jest. "A sure sign of a good character. I will assemble our force first thing in the morning. For tomorrow, they ride to Midgard!"
Thjalfi-Ras…
Thrud had only just finished regaling Dorian with the inspiration for the Thjalfi-Ras, a foot race to determine the fastest among the contenders. The tradition dated back to a time when her father had traveled the realms with his honorary Uncle Loki and human servant known as Thjalfi whose descendants still served into the modern day.
Long ago, the three had entered the halls of the then-King of the Jotuns Utgarda-Loki, no relation she assured him, and were presented with challenges to prove their worth. Loki attempted to eat more than his opponent Logi, yet no matter how quickly he devoured his food Logi kept pace. When the contest concluded, Loki realized that Logi had consumed the bones and even table itself. He retired in defeat
Next was Thjalfi who raced against Hugi, despite three races he could never get within a longbow length of distance between them before losing. His opponent seemed to be able to run faster than the wind and he doubted even Odin could have matched him.
Lastly was Thor who not only failed to drink an entire horn presented to him in a single gulp, but also failed to lift the Jotun-king's cat off the ground as its paws always seemed to remain glued to the floor. As the final humiliation, he even lost an arm wrestling competition to an old woman.
Enraged, he demanded to know by what trickery he and his companions had been so easily bested. For trickery it indeed had been as each challenge had been one impossible for men or gods to succeed in. He revealed the illusions cast before them, Logi had eaten all faster and more than Loki due to his identity being the embodiment of fire which consumes all. Hugi had been the personification of thought, of which no body however honed can hope to outpace. For Thor's in turn, the horn was linked to the ocean itself, though his attempts succeeded in lowering the seas around the world. The 'cat' was none other than the world serpent Midgardsormr who was wrapped around the world at the time and could not be moved. Finally, the old woman was old age herself…yet Thor had taken longer than all to succumb to her strength.
Utgard-Loki praised his guests, that while the challenges were unbeatable, each one had succeeded in pushing past their limits and proving greater than any before who had attempted them. Unfortunately, as a result of their admittedly terrifying progress on each challenge, the Jotun-King bid them leave his halls never to return in his lifetime. Such it was that Thor spoke ill of the Jotuns for centuries, having felt cheated by defeat.
I would bet Twilight Star that had something to do with the false discourtesies King Ymiron mentioned at my last visit, Dorian was utterly certain.
"As a result," Thrud completed her tale as they arrived. "Competitions were formed to discern if indeed anyone could match or one day best the feats of our gods and the mortal Thjalfi. There is an eating contest against a fire burning the same food selected I hear a certain giantess we are both acquaintances of is partaking in.
"Ygritte? If anyone could out-eat a flame it'd be her. Though Ragnar could put up some stiff competition."
There used to be a weightlifting challenge with Midgardsormr, but he stopped participating out of laziness before I was born…and for obvious reasons we can't exactly have challengers by the hundreds drinking from the ocean…"
Dorian could not tell if that last part was serious or a joke, though the daughter of Thunder's devilish grin suggested a combination of the two.
"And thus we have the Thjalfi-Ras; a footrace to see if any can overcome thought itself."
Thrud was so inspiring in her story even just describing a race. Dorian imagined she must be amazing around the fireside on some cold evening regaling a roomful of warriors with tales of victory and defeat of ages past. He almost wanted to compete himself yet knew full well he stood no chance besides also having promised to watch for a friend.
Brynda was performing her stretches, the participants all wearing the most comfortable and easy to run in clothes they had. She had selected her blue battle armor beneath her Valkyrie armor. She didn't notice their presence, but they made certain to cheer loudly all the same.
Bennia was in the stands as well sulking with a pouting expression that Dorian had to use a great deal of effort not to poke fun at with how adorable she was acting. She had dressed as warmly as the rest with an indigo sweater dress without leggings to show off a little, a skull-shaped snow hat to keep her ears warm and a pair of UGGs. Apparently she had arrived with the full intent of participating, only afterwards being informed that short-ranged teleportation was strictly prohibited. She was not happy at being unable to exploit any loophole to show off.
"You could still have competed without your teleports," Dorian offered as the runners took their positions.
"And make a fool of myself?" She grumbled a bit more. "These legs weren't made for extreme manual labor, just for looking good and getting me from point A to B."
Thrud just sighed in defeat at the apparent laziness of her soon-to be colleague.
The contestants all took off at the crack of the hammer, pushing themselves in an incredible sprint. They would not have to race too far, the contest being brute speed over endurance or managing your energy. Brynda did amazing as Dorian and the others cheered out her name yet there was one fairing far better.
A young man bare-chested save for a harness and leggings with a foxtail braid took off faster than any of the others. Dorian could have sworn he was a god based on the speed of which he raced. Bennia looked around confused at the raucous applause and cheers being dished out by the crowd. How could they be so excited? It was a landslide victory to the young man; the others weren't even a quarter of the way through the track before he blew by the finish line.
"He was incredible!" Dorian gasped in amazement.
"Not that impressive," Thrud remarked, maintaining her composure at his and Bennia's ignorance as long as she could. "He only won by three longbow shots."
"Only three?" Dorian snapped in her direction in shock. "That must have been over six hundred yards!"
"Right, and last year it was over a thousand. Brynda has improved significantly though that Roskva nearly caught her. Between you and me I think he fancies her." She motioned towards an auburn-haired young man who rushed to congratulate Brynda upon crossing the finish line.
"The same guy won last year too?"
"And the year before…and the year before that."
"Why does anyone keep coming if the same guy wins every year?" Bennia asked, still utterly baffled.
Dorian smiled, recalling the tale Thrud had just regaled him with. "He's not a contestant is he?"
Thrud returned the grin, proud he had gotten it so quickly. As soon as the young man crossed the finish line and done an extra lap for good measure, he disappeared into the wind like fog of smoke…or a passing thought.
"He was the personification of thought," Dorian explained to Bennia. "The benchmark by which true speed is measured."
"Thjalfi's thoughts specifically," Thrud finally divulged. "We thought it was only fair as the closest human in history to catching up to thought itself. No one has ever come close to a single longbow distance from winning since his feat."
Two more rounds followed the first yet they ended the same. The thoughts of Thjalfi outpaced everyone and not even Brynda came close to the three longbow distances she had managed before. She stood proud all the same atop the winners podium as a crown of jeweled flowers was presented for her victory. She wore it well.
"I'm going to congratulate her," Dorian asserted.
"Okay, but don't be too long," Thrud warned as she looked to a watch. "I'll go reserve our seats for the play, it fills up quite fast."
"I'll be fast, I promise…I'll be there before you can even think it," he added for what he hoped was a dash of humor before hurtling over the railing and down to the field.
"He is such a goof," Bennia remarked. "I knew I'd like him."
"Yea, he really is," Thrud muttered silently as she pulled her dire-wolf cloak tighter to protect from the biting cold.
Theatre Building…
Dorian arrived at the hall with time to spare after congratulating Brynda. She was so excited for her win that he feared he may run out of time, yet allowed her to continue all the same with her well-earned excitement. Apparently the production was a play encompassing four days' worth of performances. He felt bad he had missed the first three, but from what Thrud told him, even seeing one was well worth the visit.
"Hey there partner," a familiar red squirrel called out from atop a nearby barrel. Dorian had wondered where he'd gotten off to. "Enjoying the festivities?"
"Very much so," he high-fived his friend. "Will you be watching the play?"
"Nah, I've seen the Ring of the Nibelung before, not a fan of the tear jerkers, you know me and seeing women cry. Here with a lovely lady friend?" He asked with a suggestive wink.
"Rose and Thrud will be here, yes," he replied without acknowledging the added expression. "She's over there now."
Ratatoskr glanced over, sure enough not far in the distance was Rossweisse in her button up coat holding the collar shut as she waited for Dorian to arrive. Thrud must have already gone inside.
"Two lovely ladies you hound dog you," he teased. "And what luck you'll get a smooch today!"
"What are you talking about?"
Ratatoskr motioned towards Rossweisse pointing up. Not far above her head hanging from a higher window was a mistletoe decoration swaying in the wind.
"Tradition pal, if you meet a member of the opposite sex beneath one of them bad boys you gotta greet the young lady with a kiss."
"Isn't that only at Christmas?" Dorian suspected a trap.
"The tradition started with the Norsemen," Rat chuckled. "Just because the rest of the world limits it to a specific time frame has no bearing on Asgard. Get ready to pucker up."
"I appreciate what you are trying to do, but I don't believe you." The trickster rodent clutched his heart as if in the throes of an attack, dramatically staggering side to side before collapsing to his knees.
"My own friend, compatriot and part time doorman between realms doesn't believe it when a dear ally is trying to show him his luck in the stars…"
"I know you too well," Dorian crossed his arms. "Though with your talent you should really be the one on stage."
"Hail Mr. Held," a familiar booming yet friendly voice called out as Vidar approached wearing the same white suit as before. Dorian wondered if he had to keep up appearances full-time. "A fine day to you both."
"Vidar, my man," Ratatoskr bounded atop Dorian's shoulder to get a better vantage point. "Would you please tell our poorly informed associate here of the mistletoe tradition?"
"Why of course," he smiled widely. "When two members of the opposite sex meet up and happen to converge beneath one, the greeting becomes that of a kiss…tis well known."
Dorian's face grimaced, the explanation being exactly as Rat had described. His resolve that it was a trick started to waiver.
"There, ya see? If you can't trust the gods who can you trust?"
"But…wouldn't that be very awkward?"
"Only to newcomers or the uninformed, watch."
Vidar stepped to the side, spotting a petite brunette sitting beneath a tent and similar mistletoe ornament. She seemed to be resting her feet from wandering the grounds for so long; her hair was tied up into a conservative bun and was quite lovely.
"A fine day to you good lady." Vidar proclaimed as he approached. Leaning down, he gave her a solid kiss on the cheek, turning them red as her eyes went wide.
"A-and to you as well Lord Vidar," she started giggling uncontrollably as she shuffled off, the biggest smile still present on her face.
"There, proof positive," Rat crossed his arms in triumph.
Dorian's feet were frozen; Rossweisse never seemed the type to go for that sort of tradition. What if she took it the wrong way? He just stood there pondering what he should do. He certainly had no objections to a kiss, yet if Rossweisse didn't feel the same way…
"It need not stand out, think of it as replacing a handshake, also the tradition isn't contractually binding," Vidar explained. "There could be various reasons that one does not partake, such as if the recipient is married or perhaps you find them foul to look upon. Then there would be no question as to…"
At those words Dorian turned on his heels, heading straight for Rossweisse waiting outside for him before she grew cold from the chilly wind. Ratatoskr and Vidar craned their necks around the corner to watch. Rossweisse could not be construed as foul to look upon by any definition of the word across any realm. To prove that, he would do what he had to.
"Rose!" Dorian called out with a wave, receiving one in return. "Thank you for waiting!"
"We should get inside," she replied as her long silver hair whipped in the wind. "There may still be some seats towards the front as long as Thrud got here in time."
"Then we shall need to hurry," seamlessly without drawing attention to it, Dorian dipped in closer, looking a surprised Rossweisse in the eye for a moment. Their breath could be seen between the pair as she looked uncertain towards his intentions. With renewed courage, the reborn Einherjar proceeded to plant a tender kiss on her cold cheek. His lips maintained contact for a few seconds longer than tradition demanded, but time seemed to stop to those involved and neither was in a rush for it to end. He backed away to realize Rossweisse had turned stiff as a board, eyes wide and face flushed with heat.
"I-indeed," she nodded as they turned to enter side by side, still fully certain as to the reason he was acting in such a way. How she maintained her composure at his bold actions she'd never know. If she drew too much attention to it, he may realize the charm she had created.
The first time anyone has ever kissed me. Olympian magic…is…the best!
Once they were out of sight, Ratatoskr and Vidar shared a fist-bump between them grinning from ear to ear.
"I told you he wouldn't trust me," the resident of Yggdrasil's boughs remarked.
"Think she'll tell him that particular custom only applies if you happen to spot a doe at the same time as you are under the mistletoe? Or that the tradition only dictates they lay down their arms for a day?"
"Nah we're in the clear, did you see her face? She appreciated that more than she'll ever admit. I was more impressed you roped in that cute lady friend over there. I doubt the kid would have believed even you without the demonstration."
"Oh, I have no idea who she was," Vidar admitted.
Ratatoskr's eyes went wide at the implication followed quickly by a devilish grin.
"So she was just…" Vidar nodded. "And she had no idea…" Vidar shook his head. "Huh, I guess she just really loves the gods!"
Inside the Theatre…
Herja cried aloud, throwing herself upon the funeral pyre amid the stage, tears streaming from her eyes as she plunged the mock sword into her gut and moved no more. All around, Misty's voice could be heard singing the lamentation of Siegfried for whose body the ship burned and the woman who took her own life.
Such was the play detailing the Ring of the Nibelung, whose owner granted their nigh limitless wealth yet brought ruin to all its masters. The latest was the original Siegfried himself who claimed it from Fafnir's hoard though accounts as to the accuracy were sketchy as the great Dragon had not been seen in many years. Herja was portraying the Queen Brünhild, a mighty ruler of Isenstein with the strength of ten men that refused the hand of any whom could not best her challenges. Alas she was deceived through greed and magic into taking the hand of the tactical yet easily corrupted King Gunther. In the end, the greed of the ring brought about his own death as well as Siegfried's and all associated with the vile wealth.
Dorian was seated near the front, to their surprise Lady Freyja was in attendance and had been for the full four-nights of performances. She happily allowed the three to join her with Dorian in the middle flanked on either side by Rossweisse and Thrud. The two were leaning forward in their high back seats, eyes watering as they remained absolutely entranced by the stellar performance. Siegfried was a well-known hero to Asgard and Thrud had idolized Brünhild since she was a little girl. Between the deaths of the two, however fictionalized it may have been, they were barely holding back tears. Even Lady Freja was dabbing a drop here or there.
Dorian felt left out, between his lack of knowledge of the play and missing the first three nights, he had been dropped in at the end of the story. Nevertheless, the chorus of Valkyries led by Misty made him feel sorrowful even without the full context.
Glancing over, he realized Rossweisse's hand was shaking; she was so engrossed in the play he doubted she remembered he was even there. Wanting to make her feel better, Dorian reached over and gripped it gently, causing the Valkyrie to jump somewhat. Upon realizing it was him, the silver-maned woman smiled, returning the squeeze before directing her attention back to the play's finale.
It was the young Einherjar's turn to be startled as a powerful grip seized his other hand from the opposite side. It appeared that Thrud had a similar idea to him yet was unaware of his other handhold with her childhood friend. She squeezed his hand tighter, and tighter…and tighter. After several tense moments Dorian felt as if she would reduce his bones to powder from how emotionally invested she had become in the play, completely unaware of his pain. He dared not cry out or interrupt her; she adored the play so much. Despite tearing up at the scene before them, she could not have looked like she was enjoying herself more. It was worth the pain…barely.
"I had no idea you liked it so much," Rossweisse whispered at seeing the tears welling up in his eyes. "We shall have to go to all four performances next year."
"Mhmm," Dorian grunted past the pain as he nodded slowly, forcing a smile. The difference between her grip and Thrud's were night and day. One was the tender grasp of a sheltered maiden, the other the steel crushing vice-like grip of a warrior goddess.
Afterwards…
Somehow Dorian survived and retained use of his hand as the play concluded. Herja and Misty, along with the entire, cast stood upon the stage accepting the applause and praise thrown their way. It had been a superb performance by any standards. Bennia was in attendance further in the back and intercepted them on the way out. Hecuba had left already and she'd be accompanying Dorian back to the dormitory while Thrud and Rossweisse left for their own homes. Though Odin's bodyguard would be sure to stop by the woodworking stand to retrieve the shield she knew would be the focus of her attention for some time.
"D-Dorian," Rossweisse called to him after Thrud had left. "In case you happen to feel differently tomorrow, I wanted to give you this."
She produced the small amulet she had crafted that morning from both Olympian and Asgardian magic. It held the appearance of a locket or brooch in the shape of an Enneagram, a nine-pointed star denoting each of the realms which they called home.
He didn't understand her meaning about feeling different, but accepted the amulet all the same with an inquisitive expression, recognizing only a fraction of the seals she had etched into the surface. If she wanted him to figure out its purpose as a form of training he was more than happy to oblige.
"Is it the hybrid seals?" She nodded an affirmative. "Oh wow, you finished them so quickly; you really are a genius Valkyrie!"
Rossweisse's heart skipped a beat at those words, too often she had been labeled demeaning titles by the other older Valkyries. Odin's Maid, the Valkyrie Who Never had a Boyfriend, the Cheap Valkyrie for her love of discount shops just to name a few. To receive one that complimented the traits she prided herself on was a welcome change.
"Thank you, a-and have a…pleasant evening," Rossweisse dipped close in an imitation to the young man's actions before the play. Tenderly she placed a kiss on his cheek though it was much shorter than the previous as her courage failed midway through. Once it was over she quickly ducked away, rushing off around the corner towards her home.
Dorian rubbed his cheek with a content grin, looking about all over the area as he was unable to locate the mistletoe that would have preempted such an action. He never did find it though soon realized that Bennia was strangely absent. On his way home he contemplated if relations between Valkyrie and Einherjar were as forbidden in actuality as they were in the old stories. He had never thought to ask before that moment.
Not Far…
"Oh how could I do that," Rossweisse fretted, pulling out the Olympian love charm still wrapped around her wrist. "He won't feel the same way tomorrow, once he finds out what I did…"
"Ooooooh, thinking of getting lucky tonight?"
A familiar indigo-clothed grim reaper materialized from a simple transportation portal eyeing up the charm. She was grinning from ear to ear and raising her eyebrows suggestively.
"I-I have no idea what you are talking about!"
"Pffft, please," Bennia waved her hand casually. "Olympian remember? You think you're the only girl who tried out one of those charms to attract a certain set of eyes? Most boys where I come from have to wear a counter ward to prevent that from working unless they wanted it to. Though I can certainly keep you from wasting your time next chance you try it."
Rossweisse raised an eyebrow in confusion. "What do you mean?"
Bennia stepped forward, pointing out a twirl at the left edge of the outer circle that seemed to end with a small nub.
"The seal has to be a closed circuit otherwise the magic is lost and doesn't go anywhere. It's meant to draw the intended target's aura towards yours and intertwine with it." Bennia was so focused on her explanation she missed the thrifty Valkyrie's glowing smile of embarrassment mixed with restrained joy at her colleague's next words. "As it stands with this opening in the chain, this one is currently powerless and would barely serve as a fashion statement…"
Dormitory, Nightfall…
Dorian closed the door behind him, letting out a sizable yawn. It had been a fun yet productive day. His thoughts were still drawn to that final kiss of the evening and the warmth upon his cheek.
It wasn't just Elysium! Maybe, I can find some time to…
Dorian jumped as a bird dove through his open window, perching atop his nearby table covered with the map of Asgard and other assorted papers. At first glance he knew it was no normal bird as its body glistened a pale emerald color in the light of the far-off Bifrost. Curiously, it was neither Huginn nor Muninn, the Ravens named for 'thought' and 'mind' that eternally served as Odin's eyes by collecting information and watching the realms. Rather it appeared smaller with less pronounced designs across the shimmering feathers, perhaps one of their offspring.
The enchanted bird hopped down, dropping a sealed folder within its beak upon the table before withdrawing to a chair back. It motioned down for him to take the document, its head popping to the side left and right as if still searching for food. Dorian reached for the folder, only to have the bird suddenly leap to his shoulder. He felt fear for a moment as its black eyes suddenly shifted, the right turning grey while the left vanished entirely. He did not realize what had occurred until it opened its mouth.
"Mr. Held, glad to see you returned. I trust you had a pleasant evening. Am I coming through clearly?"
"Allfather?" As Dorian spoke, the bird transformed before his very eyes until an apparition of the Norse deity appeared before him though remained translucent with the surrounding room visible through him.
"Ah, he can already perform an astral projection; that is good to know."
"Allfather, is everything alright?" Dorian did not quite know how to react to Lady Freyja's husband materializing in his room.
"For now, most certainly, though that will change tomorrow. I hope you weren't planning any strenuous exertions tonight," the old perverted god started to cackle, Dorian making no move to stop him. "I wanted to test Skilja's ability to communicate long distances as it will be most helpful in the days ahead."
"Skilja?" Dorian asked, recognizing the Norse word meaning to 'understand.'
"Indeed, one of the younger hatchlings my eyes have been blessed with this year. I trust the file made it there safely?"
Dorian motioned towards the sealed folder on the table with a confirming nod.
"Excellent, there has been a break in the search for Hrotti thanks to Baraqiel and his agents. Please meet with us tomorrow morning as soon as you have broken your fast. Be prepared to travel as you will be returning to Midgard."
"Of course Allfather," Dorian assured him. He had hoped for more time to relax, but if the ones responsible for the attack on Asgard's vault had been located then there was no time to waste. "Is there anything I should know that is not in the file?"
"You will be negotiating with the young heiress of a prestigious family of Devils and her servants. We believe the sword was taken somewhere within her territory. I will also admit that we are hoping to improve relations with their faction as well as the others within the Biblical myth…religion," he corrected, remembering Azazel's preference. "Memorize what you can but get a good rest. We will explain more come the morn."
With that last word, Odin disappeared to be replaced by Skilja. The young bird cocked its head at him in an almost confused manner as if uncertain how to proceed.
Thank goodness we have some food you'll like, Dorian sighed at the inclusion of a new animal companion. I hope he doesn't have a taste for squirrels…
Dorian flipped through the file after leaving out a pile of corn for the raven to feast upon, performing a quick read by candlelight on the persons of note they would be meeting with. An heiress by the name of Rias Gremory was the one in charge and likely who most of the deliberations would be through, however he felt drawn to the others mentioned, her peerage as it was called apparently.
Her hair is redder than Hecuba's and she has such interesting individuals among her servants, quite powerful as well. A strong Nekoshou rook, a race of cat-people more common among the Shinto Youkai factions, she also has an immensely talented queen…with lightning powers of her own and three Sacred Gear users between a knight, bishop and pawn. Their titles are based off chess? I wonder if any of them have achieved their balance breaker. He looked over their known skills and abilities. It doesn't look like it other than the pawn called the Red Dragon Emperor having performed a temporary unsealing, though…
Dorian just stared at the mention below it, rubbing his eyes to make sure they weren't playing tricks on him. The Allfather must have marked the page himself as the attack label was underlined several times with a star on either side along with a scribble about learning it himself.
Huh, I wonder what a…Dress Break technique is…
The Einherjar and his Rose grow ever closer before they must part, drawn away by their duties as the young warrior returns to the place where his life changed forever. Alas, the next arc will be after a hiatus as I plan ahead and work other projects, but I wanted to complete these bridging chapters for those who have been following my work for so long. The Holy Sword Arc looms in the distance. Until next time, I hope everyone Reads and Reviews…but most of all Enjoy! :D