It's been a while since I made a summary, so here I go, I've been planning what to do next with the stories and working out the finer details so don't worry, I shouldn't take too much longer, but it gets challenging to come up with new ideas when I'm still studying the lore of these games and things.

And I might make a few chapters before I post one so there's that.

Anyway, here it is.

…

God of War, The Old Ones

Chapter 6: The Trip to Vanaheim

…

In the serene campsite, the night air was filled with the aroma of cooking fish mixed with herbs. Erick was preparing a meal, infusing it with some cheese that had a hint of garlic, a recipe he learned from the troll he had previously encountered. Freya found the dish particularly delightful, appreciating the unique flavors.

As they sat by the fire, enjoying the meal, Freya pondered her next steps. She had been considering visiting her brother, Freyr, in Vanaheim, seeking to reconnect and perhaps find support in these tumultuous times. She turned to Erick to voice her question that has been rattling in her head for a while now, "Would you accompany me to Vanaheim tomorrow?"

Erick, pausing from his culinary duties, responded warmly, "Of course, Freya. I'll be there with you."

With the plans for the next day settled, Freya took a few moments, curious about Erick's past, she asked if he could share another story from his realm. Erick thought for a moment, his mind traversing back to the distant and enigmatic lands of his origin.

"I come from a kingdom where my father ruled over a unique people," Erick began, his voice taking on a reflective tone. "Our kind were like a blend of sea creatures and humanoids. One of my people, E'elk't, had a body resembling coral and rocks, tentacles for arms and legs with four tentacles on the bottom, and two for arms, and an eel-like head that could retract into his body. Each individual was distinct, a reflection of the chaotic nature that shaped us or our ancestral lineage."

He paused for a moment, as he recalled the diversity of his people. "Some resembled starfish, others were like humanoid clusters of barnacles, and some even appeared as humanoid fish. Despite our varied and, perhaps, monstrous appearances, we were a people with our own culture, history, and societies. We thrived on land, in the seas, and across realms beyond."

Freya listened intently; her imagination captivated by the vivid descriptions. It was comforting and eye-opening to hear those beings, regardless of how monstrous they might appear, could have rich, diverse cultures and hearts not unlike their own.

Erick continued his tale, his voice tinged with nostalgia and reverence. "But among us, none were as majestic or as enigmatic as my father, the Eternal Dreamer. He's a being of such complexity and wonder, changing form each night as he dreams. No two nights see him the same, each transformation reflecting the boundless realms of his imagination."

Freya leaned closer, her eyes reflecting the flickering flames, engrossed in Erick's story. "His first form, as legends within our realms recount, was a creature immense beyond comprehension, perhaps as vast as Midgard itself. He was adorned with countless tentacles, limbs, eyes, and mouths – each a testament to ancient knowledge and wisdom."

Erick's hands moved as if painting the image in the air. "Imagine a being whose very body is a tapestry of cosmic secrets, a walking realm of unfathomable size, where each part of him spoke a different lore."

Freya's gaze was distant, picturing this colossal entity. "And yet, with all his might and wisdom, my father chose a path of coexistence with the mortals of our cosmos. He's often seen wandering the kingdoms I've spoken of, engaging in profound conversations with their inhabitants, aiding them in the construction of their realms."

Erick's smile broadened. "His involvement isn't just symbolic. Given his nature as a literal walking realm, he can sprout structures from himself, much like coral grows in the seas of your world. Temples, towers, even entire cities have blossomed from his form, each a living part of him, yet a standalone marvel for the mortals."

Freya, mesmerized by the tale, whispered, "Such a being... it's hard to fathom."

"He is more than just a ruler or a creator," Erick explained. "He embodies the very essence of our realm's symbiosis – where the eldritch and the mortal coexist in harmony. His actions are not just for show; they are deeply ingrained in our culture, a testament to a shared existence that values every form of life."

As the fire crackled, the night deepened around them. Freya, lost in thought, considered the implications of such a being. Erick's words had opened a window to a world so vast and diverse, it challenged her understanding of existence itself.

"In our cosmos," Erick continued, his voice carrying the weight of eons, "my father's presence is a constant reminder of the balance between the great and the small, the powerful and the meek. In his eyes, every creature, regardless of their form, holds a place in the tapestry of existence."

Freya nodded thoughtfully. "It's a perspective that's rare, even in the realms of the Aesir and the Vanir. To think of a being so powerful, yet so in tune with the essence of life, it's both humbling and awe-inspiring."

Erick looked up at the stars, his eyes reflecting a universe of experiences. "He taught me that true strength lies not in domination, but in understanding and nurturing. That is why I choose to walk among different worlds, to learn and to share, much like my father."

The air around them seemed to pulse with the ancient energies of Erick's realm, a silent symphony of cosmic wonders. Freya felt a profound sense of connection, not just to Erick, but to the larger universe he represented.

As the night wore on, their conversation meandered through topics both mundane and mystical. Erick's stories of his father, the Eternal Dreamer, left an indelible mark on Freya, reshaping her understanding of power and existence.

"In every realm.", Erick concluded, there are wonders and horrors, tragedies, and triumphs. But in the end, it's the connections we forge, the understandings we reach, that truly shape our worlds."

Freya, now viewing her own quest and the world around her through a new lens, felt a sense of awakening. "Your tales, Erick, they're not just stories. They're lessons, a different way of seeing things, of understanding the universe and our place in it."

Erick nodded, Freya. In every story, there's a truth to be found, a perspective to be gained. My father's way of life, his philosophy, it's shaped who I am, and it's a message I carry with me, across realms and through time."

Suddenly, Erick's head turned sharply towards the edge of their camp, his gaze piercing the darkness. Freya, familiar with Erick's heightened senses, followed his gaze but saw nothing. She knew, however, that Erick perceived things beyond her mortal ken.

In the quiet of the night, the serene atmosphere was broken by a subtle rustling in the bushes. Freya's hand instinctively went to her weapon, but Erick remained calm, a knowing look in his eyes. Freya then heard the low growls of Svana and Bjorn, the bear cubs they had encountered and cared for. Their eyes were fixed on a figure emerging from the shadows.

It was Atreus, looking weary and troubled. His eyes widened in shock as he recognized the bear cubs, his face reflecting a mix of guilt and sorrow. Freya looked from Atreus to Erick, seeking an explanation.

Erick spoke gently, "These cubs, Svana and Bjorn, were left orphaned. I found them shortly after we last spoke in the clearing, Atreus. Their mother... she fell by unfortunate means." Erick's eyes held Atreus's, conveying an unspoken understanding.

Atreus's shoulders slumped, the memory clearly weighing on him. "I... I didn't know. When I turned into a bear... I never meant to..."

Freya, realizing the gravity of the situation, decided to defuse the situation. "It's a harsh reality of our world, Atreus. But know this, they are safe and cared for now."

Erick nodded, "In life, there are moments of unintended consequences. What matters is what we learn and how we move forward."

Atreus, taking a deep breath, looked up at them both. "I need your help. Both of you. Ragnarok... it's coming, and I don't think we can stop it alone."

Freya exchanged a glance with Erick, sensing the urgency in Atreus's voice. She had forgiven Kratos and Atreus for what happened to Baldur, but the thought of involving Erick in their familial strife gave her pause.

Before she could voice her concerns, Erick spoke up, "Atreus, we will help you. My path is one of guidance, not conflict. However, even if I don't take the role as a combatant, I realize that my insights may help all the parties involved, and besides. He said, turning towards Freya. If it helps Freya, I'm in… she's important to me.

Atreus nodded gratefully at Erick's words. The tension in the air seemed to ease slightly, a testament to the calming influence Erick wielded. "Thank you, both of you," he said earnestly.

Erick, looking thoughtful, added, "Atreus, Freya and I were planning to head to Vanaheim. Perhaps it would be wise for us to meet there. It seems our paths are converging in that direction."

Atreus's eyes lit up with a mix of hope and urgency. "Vanaheim? That could be perfect. I've been trying to piece together some Jotnar messages, and if I'm reading them correctly, Sköll and Hati might be there. And there's something else... I believe Odin may have hidden the moon in Vanaheim."

Freya's attention snapped to Atreus at the mention of Odin and the moon. Her brows furrowed in concern and curiosity. "The moon? Hidden by Odin in Vanaheim? This is indeed grave news. We must investigate this."

Erick nodded in agreement. "It seems our journey to Vanaheim is even more critical now. Not just for personal reasons, but potentially for the fate of the realms."

Freya stood up, determination etched on her face. "Then it's settled. We'll travel to Vanaheim. Atreus, meet us there. Together, we'll uncover the truth behind these claims and prepare for whatever Ragnarok may bring."

Atreus, looking relieved and more composed, nodded. "I'll see you in Vanaheim. Thank you, Erick, Freya. Your help means more than you know."

As Atreus departed into the night, Freya and Erick sat back down by the fire, each lost in their thoughts about the upcoming journey. The revelation of Odin's possible interference with the moon and the presence of Sköll and Hati in Vanaheim added layers of complexity to their mission.

Erick broke the silence, "Freya, this journey... it's taking us into uncharted territories, in more ways than one. But whatever we face in Vanaheim, know that I am with you."

Freya looked at Erick, her expression softening. "I know, Erick. And I'm grateful for it.

The fire crackled between them, casting a warm glow over their determined faces. The night around them was still, as if the world was holding its breath, waiting for the dawn that would bring the next chapter of their journey.

As they prepared to rest for the few hours remaining before dawn, Erick's mind wandered over the vast knowledge he possessed, pondering the implications of Odin hiding the moon and the role of Sköll and Hati in the prophecy of Ragnarök. Freya, meanwhile, contemplated the possibility of reuniting with her brother Freyr in Vanaheim and what assistance he might provide in the times ahead.

The night passed in quiet contemplation, with both Erick and Freya bracing themselves for the unknown challenges that awaited them in Vanaheim. As the first light of dawn began to creep over the horizon, they packed their belongings, ready to embark on a journey that could potentially alter the fate of the realms and with a bit of luck, reconnect Freya with her brother.

At Brok and Sindri's home, nestled in the branches of Yggdrasil, a different kind of gathering was taking place. Kratos, Tyr, Brok, Sindri, and Atreus were huddled together, discussing their next move in the shadow of the impending Ragnarök.

Atreus, his face marked by the seriousness of the situation, relayed the conversation he had with Freya and Erick. "They're headed to Vanaheim as well, and they've agreed to help us. Erick's stance is more supportive, but his knowledge and insights could be invaluable. We've agreed to meet them there."

Kratos, his expression unreadable as always, nodded slowly. "Freya's knowledge of Vanaheim could be key in navigating the realm. And this Erick, he seems like a valuable ally, especially given his abilities and his wisdom.

Tyr, leaning against a table filled with maps and scrolls, added thoughtfully, "The presence of Sköll and Hati in Vanaheim, along with Odin's possible interference with the moon, complicates matters. We need all the help we can get."

Brok, ever the pragmatist, chimed in, "Well, ain't that a kick in the pants? The more the merrier, I say. Especially when the world's about to go belly-up."

Sindri, wringing his hands nervously, looked at Atreus. "And you're sure Freya has forgiven your father and you for... well, for Baldur?"

Atreus nodded, a touch of sadness in his eyes. "Yes, she has. She's moved past it, thanks in part to Erick's influence, I think. They seem... close."

Kratos, who had been silent for a moment, spoke up, "We must prepare for our journey to Vanaheim. Atreus, make sure you are ready. This will not be an easy path."

The group dispersed, each lost in their own thoughts about the journey ahead. The weight of the task at hand hung heavy in the air. They knew that the decisions they made in the coming days could shape the fate of not just the realms, but the very fabric of existence itself.

…

Later with Erick and Freya in Vanaheim…

As Freya and Erick entered the lush, vibrant realm of Vanaheim, they were immediately struck by the stark contrast between the serene beauty of the land and the tension that hung in the air. The realm, known for its connection to nature and the Vanir gods, was alive with the sounds and colors of life, yet an undercurrent of unease was unmistakable.

Erick, walking beside Freya, suddenly paused, his expression turning serious. He closed his eyes for a moment, tuning into the echoes of thoughts and intentions that permeated the air around them.

Freya, noticing the change in Erick's demeanor, asked quietly, "What is it?"

"There's someone ahead," Erick replied, his eyes opening, revealing a flicker of concern. "One of Odin's captains, named Fiske. He wields a scythe and is not far beyond these obstacles." He gestured towards a dense thicket that barred their path, intertwined with massive roots and hanging vines.

Freya's grip on her weapon tightened. "A confrontation?"

Erick nodded, "Yes. I can sense his eagerness for a fight. His thoughts are like ripples in a pond, clear and intent on violence."

Freya weighed their options. "We can try to find another way around, but that might delay us."

Erick shook his head. "No, I believe confronting him may be inevitable. But remember, my approach is guidance, not conflict. I will try to defuse the situation if possible."

As they moved forward, navigating the natural obstacles of Vanaheim's dense forests, the sense of impending confrontation grew stronger. Soon, they came upon a clearing where Fiske stood waiting, his scythe gleaming menacingly in the dappled sunlight.

Fiske's eyes narrowed as he spotted Freya and Erick. "So, the Vanir goddess and her eldritch companion have arrived. I was hoping for a challenge."

Erick stepped forward, his presence commanding yet peaceful. "Captain Fiske, we mean no harm to Asguard, or its inhabitants. We seek only passage.

Fiske laughed, a cold, harsh sound that echoed through the clearing. "Passage? Odin's orders are clear. No one passes through Vanaheim without his permission. And you," he pointed his scythe at Erick, "are an unknown entity. A potential threat."

Freya readied herself for battle, but Erick raised his hand, signaling her to wait. He addressed Fiske calmly, "I understand your duty, Captain. But violence is not the only path. We can resolve this peacefully."

Fiske sneered, "Peace? There's no peace to be had when Ragnarök looms over us. I will do my duty, by force if necessary."

Erick met Fiske's gaze steadily, "Then please let us pass without bloodshed. There is much at stake, more than you realize. We are here to prevent a greater calamity, one that threatens all realms, including yours."

The tension in the air was thick, a standoff between the unwavering will of Odin's captain and the calm, persuasive presence of Erick. Freya watched carefully, ready to intervene, if necessary, but hoping Erick's approach would prevail.

Fiske hesitated, his grip on the scythe wavering as he considered Erick's words when met with his unflinching stare. The intensity in his eyes lessened, replaced by a flicker of doubt. "And what calamity would that be? Speak plainly, eldritch one."

Erick responded, "Ragnarök and the events that follow are not just a war among gods. It's a cataclysm that could unravel the very fabric of all realms in the nine realms and beyond. The allfather's actions, including hiding the moon in Vanaheim, have consequences far beyond what you might imagine. We seek to understand and perhaps find a way to avert the worst of it."

Fiske's expression softened slightly, the weight of Erick's words sinking in. "You speak of matters beyond my command. But I cannot simply let you pass without assurance of your intentions."

Erick nodded in understanding, then, after a moment of contemplation, did something unexpected. He slowly reached into his attire and pulled out a finely crafted dagger that he made not too long ago, named Serpent's Whisper. Holding it up in a non-threatening manner, he offered it to Fiske. The blade gleamed subtly in the dim light, its craftsmanship exquisite and clearly of eldritch origin.

"If you require proof of my intentions then take my own weapon," Erick began, his voice steady and sincere, "As a symbol of my trust. I offer it to you, Captain Fiske, as a gesture of our peaceful intentions." His eyes met Fiske's, conveying a depth of honesty that was hard to ignore. "I ask you to look into my eyes and know that I am not lying when I say, something tells me that someone from beyond the green rift is manipulating events. Someone who offers knowledge but only brings pain and chaos, much like what is happening now."

Freya, who had been standing silently, knew exactly what Erick was referring to. She remembered Erick's tales of how his brother had brought ruin upon the Higher Existence and was subsequently cast out. The memory of those stories sent a shiver down her spine.

Fiske, taken aback by the unexpected gesture, carefully took the dagger, examining it closely. He looked into Erick's eyes, searching for any sign of deceit but found none. Erick's expression was earnest and serious, convincing Fiske of his sincerity.

After a moment, Fiske handed the dagger back to Erick and stepped aside. "Your words, and this gesture, have given me much to consider. I will allow you to pass and will relay this message to the Allfather. If what you say is true, which I believe it is, then he needs to be aware of this potential threat."

Erick received the dagger back, nodding his gratitude. "Thank you, Captain Fiske." Before they continued their way.

As Freya and Erick continued their way, Fiske watched them go, deep in thought. The encounter had clearly impacted him, leaving him to ponder the larger forces at play and the possible existence of a manipulator beyond the known realms.

…

Sometime later…

Freya and Erick continued their journey through Vanaheim, drawing closer to Freya's old home. The familiar sights and scents of the realm evoked a mix of emotions in Freya – nostalgia, sorrow, and a budding hope. As they approached the gated entrance to the campsite, Erick paused, sensing something through his unique connection to the minds around him.

"Freya," Erick said gently, turning to her. "I can sense Freyr's thoughts. He's grieving... he believes you to be dead. He misses you deeply."

This revelation struck Freya with both surprise and a pang of sadness. She had harbored feelings of abandonment, believing that her brother had forgotten her or chosen not to seek her out. Now, understanding that he thought her dead, brought a clarity that eased some of the pain she had suffered for so long.

"He thought I was gone..." Freya murmured, more to herself than to Erick. Her eyes, reflecting a turmoil of emotions, also held a glimmer of relief. "That explains so much and why he never came for me."

Erick paused for a moment, giving her a chance to process this before he spoke. "This is your chance, Freya, to reconnect and heal old wounds."

With a deep breath, steeling herself for the reunion, Freya nodded. They approached the gated door of the campsite, a place that held so many memories, both joyous and painful. Erick pushed the gate open, and they stepped inside.

The sight that greeted them was one to be expected of a campsite. Around a campfire, amid a small group that included a dark elf and a few other beings, sat Freyr. He was engaged in quiet conversation, but his demeanor spoke of a deep, underlying sadness.

As Freya stepped into the light of the fire, the conversations ceased. All eyes turned towards her, but it was Freyr's reaction that held everyone's attention. His eyes widened in disbelief, a mix of shock, joy, and sorrow washing over his face.

"Freya?" he whispered, as if afraid to believe his own eyes.

Freya, her own emotions swelling within her, managed a small, tentative smile. "Yes, Freyr. It's me. I'm here."

The moment was charged with a myriad of unspoken feelings and questions. It was the beginning of a long-awaited reunion, a chance to bridge the gap that time and circumstance had created. Freya and Freyr, once so close, now had the opportunity to reconnect and support each other through the trials that lay ahead.

Erick stepped back, allowing the siblings their moment, knowing that his role was to support Freya in this deeply personal journey. As the siblings slowly began to speak, their voices low and laden with emotion, the group around the fire watched in respectful silence. This was a pivotal moment, a chance for healing and understanding, and perhaps a crucial step in facing the challenges of Ragnarök together.

A few minutes later, after the initial shock and emotional reunion had settled slightly, Freya turned towards Erick, indicating it was time to introduce him to Freyr and the rest of the group. "Everyone, this is Erick. He's been a steadfast companion and guide to me through recent times."

The group's eyes shifted to Erick; curiosity mixed with a hint of wariness evident in their expressions. There was an unspoken recognition among them that Erick was not ordinary; something about him felt distinctly unnatural, yet they couldn't quite pinpoint what it was. His appearance, that of a normal man, only added to their confusion.

Freya sensed their uncertainty and decided to explain. "Erick is not from our realms. He comes from a place beyond what we know, a realm of eldritch beings."

Her explanation was met with raised eyebrows and skeptical looks. The more Freya delved into Erick's background, the more incredulous it sounded. Descriptions of cosmic realms, eldritch entities, and Erick's own nature seemed too fantastical, even for those well-versed in the mystic and mythical.

Sensing the skepticism, Erick decided it was time for a more direct demonstration. He held up his hand, and in front of their astonished eyes, his fingers morphed into writhing tentacles, each sprouting tiny eyes that blinked independently. The display was brief, as Erick quickly reverted his hand back to normal, but it was enough to prove his extraordinary nature.

The group recoiled in shock, their faces a mix of awe and disbelief. Freyr, particularly, looked stunned but quickly regained his composure. He observed the way Freya stood by Erick, the trust and respect evident in her demeanor.

Freyr finally spoke, his voice tinged with newfound understanding. "It's clear you are no ordinary being, Erick. But if Freya vouches for you, and you've been her support in these troubled times, then you have my gratitude."

The group slowly relaxed, accepting Erick's presence, albeit still with a sense of wonder and caution. Erick's demonstration had shattered their expectations, opening their minds to possibilities they hadn't considered before.

Freya, relieved by their acceptance, smiled at Erick. "Erick has been a constant, unwavering source of support for me," she affirmed. "His wisdom and insight have been invaluable, and he's played a crucial role in our journey here."

As the night progressed, the group engaged in conversation, sharing stories and plans. Erick's unique perspective and Freya's evident trust in him gradually eased the initial shock.

As they gathered around the campfire, the group settled into a comfortable rhythm, completing camp routines, and sharing stories. The air was filled with the crackling of firewood and the occasional laughter as tales from different realms were exchanged. Everyone was particularly intrigued when it was Erick's turn to share, his stories promising glimpses into a cosmos vastly different from their own.

After a moment of thought, Erick began to speak about his mother, his voice taking on a softer, more reflective tone. "My mother," he started, "she's like a second realm, akin to my father. But instead of being a landmass, she is a vast, gelatinous mass of black liquid, reminiscent of primordial oceans. It made her a perfect match for my father, the Eternal Dreamer, the living organic landmass."

The group listened, captivated by the imagery Erick painted with his words. The concept of beings as immense and elemental as realms was beyond their usual scope of understanding, yet Erick's earnestness lent credence to his incredible tales.

"Since my father was the Eternal Dreamer, a being of land and creation, it was only natural that they came together, being so compatible in their vastness and nature." Erick's said as he spoke of his parents. "As for where they came from, the conditions in the void of chaos they originated from – a chaos far different from any known here – were just right. After many millennia, they both... settled," he searched for the right word before continuing, "and the rest, as they say, is history, much like how any family forms."

Freya, her eyes wide with fascination, leaned in closer. "So, your cosmos, it's a place where beings like your parents can exist as living realms? It's extraordinary."

Erick nodded. "Yes, our cosmos is a tapestry of unimaginable entities and realities. My parents, in their uniqueness, are just a part of the greater whole that makes our cosmos so different, and wonderous."

The group sat in a thoughtful silence for a moment, digesting Erick's story. The revelation of such a different cosmos, with beings of such grandeur and scale, was a lot to take in. Yet, Erick's presence, his stories, and the way he said it, made them all believe him.