It is good to be back! Thus begins the second arc of The Roots of Hope. I hope all my readers continue to enjoy our trip through what could have been in the world of Highschool DxD. Due to real life stuff, updates may be further apart but rest assured are being worked on. :D As always I will respond to review questions here.
MasterOfDragonsGod: Thank you!
FireFox614: You know, I've never played the Kid Icarus games but I looked them up after seeing your review...you are not wrong, she is pretty spot on for the image in my head of Yggdrasil's avatar lol.
ahsoei: Not the fight itself, however Modi's weapon being a mace based off Mjolnir was inspired by that game. A new Longinus? Hmmmm, perhaps...only time will tell if it holds the power to slay gods. :D
the unsung antihero: Indeed, bridging the arcs can be tricky...but here we are at arc 2! :D I hope you enjoy it as much as the first!
Jwebb96: Thank you! I wanted to portray Dorian as more of a front line fighter. He fights without access to the multitude of 1-shot god killing weapons of Issei. Will he discover any with training and time...? (shrug)
PasiveNox: Thanks! :)
MarksmanL: I am glad you've been loving it! That means a lot to hear you say that, one of my ideas was fleshing out a mythology somewhat glossed over in the main canon while making the world more than just centering around breasts saving the day (blasphemous though that wish may be. xD).
DJDrake: Yea...Ratatoskr is pretty sly...he's had millennia to develop an appreciation of the female form that would put Issei to shame lol.
Sakra95: At this point in the canon pre-Holy Sword Arc, I would say Dorian is superior to Issei in terms of combat (barring him sacrificing anymore body parts to Ddraig of course xD) but against higher devils like Rias and Akeno...he still has a ways to go.
Struggler-Sama Nerazim: I am so glad I made you laugh. :D We'll have to wait and see how popular Dorian is with Japanese schoolgirls when he eventually makes his way to Kuoh Academy. xD
Helltul: That is such a good description for Ratatoskr hehe. Thank you!
Rongis: I am sorry you and Loki feel that way, thanks for giving my story a shot. :D
fanficcyberman: Thank you, I am so glad you've been enjoying my tale thus far. I hope to never disappoint. :D
To all the other reviewers, thank you for taking the time to give your thoughts on my story, every little bit helps for future improvement! And with that...on to the show!
Rossweisse is free yet the sword Hrotti remains lost. As Odin and the Norse gods strive to locate their treasured relic, Dorian continues his life among the spires of Asgard. Yet as ever, his duties will send him far from the land he has called his home to another long estranged from the world shining high above the realm of mortals.
A soft melody played out over the classroom, unlike most of their lessons, this one was to bring out the artistic talent of the Valkyries. All watched on as Dorian played a tune on his lyre while Misty sang an ancient song dating back to when certain human cultures had started emulating the residents of Asgard who visited. Her voice was hauntingly soft and ever on-key, Dorian now understood why she loved to overdramatize everything she saw, if he had such a voice he'd likely be the same way.
I dreamed a dream last night
of silk and fair furs,
of a pillow so deep and soft,
a peace with no disturbance.
And in the dream I saw
as though through a dirty window
the whole ill-fated human race,
a different fear upon each face.
The number of their worries grow
and with them the number of their solutions —
but the answer is often a heavier burden,
even when the question hurts to bear.
A box of tissues was being passed through the classroom. It looked like none were unmoved by the young girl's melodious words. Even Lady Eir could be seen wiping away the slightest hint at the edge of her eyes. Dorian's tune was somber yet light, like a bittersweet victory hard-fought yet with the question as to whether it was worth the sacrifice.
As I was able to sleep just as well,
I thought that would be best —
to rest myself here on fine fur,
and forget everyone else.
Peace, if it is to be found, is where
one is furthest from the human noise —
and walling oneself around, can have a dream
of silk and fine furs.
As Misty completed the final verse, the class burst into applause, her words and Dorian's melody were as in-tune as was possible. He silently thanked Rat for allowing him practice during the downtime of his nearly month-long training.
"Did you have to pick so somber of a song?" Dorian asked Misty as the pair bowed. They had been permitted to perform as a team by Lady Eir much to the jealousy of the remaining students. "There are plenty of upbeat ones."
"The tear-jerkers are where you get them right through the heart," she whispered back.
Everyone in the class had picked something to do, most were portraits or poem verses. Misty had been the sole one to request a song and asked for Dorian's assistance on the lyre which counted for his own project. Of course, when it came time to choose the best Herja won with her life-size marble statue of Dorian by a landslide. It depicted him wearing the fur loincloth and boots of his previous battle, the young Einherjar couldn't even look at it without growing embarrassed as she had quite exaggerated his features. Apparently Brynda had sketched him during the fight which became the basis for the statue.
Those two are terrible, he chuckled. His embarrassment flared at the realization that it would remain in the class for the duration of the school year.
"Excellent work," Lady Eir complimented. "Remember always that Valkyries are meant to ferry the worthy back to our shores. We are considered warrior poets and must carry ourselves as such. I know that, as an Einherjar, you are not beholden to such a standard Mr. Held, but having some culture amidst combat can round out one's character."
Dorian nodded in understanding at her words, an appreciation for the arts could improve appreciation for life…a necessary trait to prevent becoming a monster on the battlefield.
"Well," she clapped her hands together. "Now that we have properly exercised our minds, it is time to do the same with our bodies. I want everyone out in the yard in five!"
Training Yard…
Dorian clashed with Thrud who had arrived on time as always, his Gear active and glowing gold. Rossweisse was fulfilling tasks for the Allfather and would be unable to attend. Now that he had unlocked its first liberation, Dorian could better practice with the abilities he had been taught by the avatar of the other Yggdrasil within its depths.
The warrior maiden kneed him in the gut as they struggled, forcing him back. With a graceful wave of her arm she sliced across his chest though he ducked in time and avoided it. They were only fighting with training weapons, but any blow from her would still hurt. With a magenta glow, he summoned an augmented seal, which were becoming the norm for him as he improved, and fired a javelin of fire which she cut in half with ease. He had rotated through every power he'd attained save for Hel and Musphelheim for safety's sake.
"You are...much improved," she grunted as she leapt over a low horizontal slash. She still wasn't going all out against him, but now had to put some effort into it and that alone made Dorian feel great pride at their continued lessons.
"I still have much to learn," he replied as she came at him again. As usual, the class had quickly finished their own reps in order to watch. Unlike the past where their gaze had fallen solely on Thrud, now many were keeping an eye on their male classmate since his victory against Modi. Being a son of Thor, besting him in such a public setting had made Dorian a minor celebrity. Fortunately, as Freyja's retainer, none bothered him once he could make it to her chambers at night for his work.
"You should watch out for reporters," she warned. "You bested my brother after all; he was considered the fourth strongest young-warrior training at Asgard currently." Dorian paused, disbelieving of her last statement, his hesitation allowed her to score a strong blow on his left arm that would surely leave a welt.
"That can't be true," he couldn't be that strong. "Who are the others?"
"Well, number three is my brother Magni and the second place goes to Rossweisse with her exceptional mastery of magic."
Wow, Rossweisse was considered so strong? I guess my standing up for her back then wasn't even necessary if they'd actually come to blows…
I can only imagine who the strongest trainee warrior would b…"
He felt foolish the moment he said it, Thrud had struck a pose, placing her sword over her shoulder like she was stretching. He could hear squeals of joy from his classmates not far followed by a camera flash.
"I'm such a moron."
"True, but you are still improving. Have you determined the powers of the remaining two worlds?"
During the fight against Modi, he had utilized powers linked with seven of the nine worlds, only Nidavellir and Midgard remained, but Yggdrasil, or Iggy as he had come to adopt Ratatoskr's moniker for her had been silent on them. He gently shook his head.
"There is still so much I don't know about it."
"None of us do, you are the first to possess such an object among our people. The Allfather has reached out to allies in neighboring mythologies for assistance. He mentioned an expert will be joining us soon."
"An expert?"
"Yes, from the biblical mythology from whence Sacred Gears originate."
"Any idea who they are?"
She shook her head gently; he could not help but become mesmerized by how her hair swayed so perfectly as she did so. How did she find time to keep it so immaculate with how constantly she was visiting the healing rooms…or did her amazing genes extend to that as well?
"Has…there been any improvement in Modi?" Thrud sighed, sheathing her sword she sat on the bench beside him.
"He is alive, father and mother are ecstatic at that, but he is still a shell. Whoever placed that seal on his mind left nothing to chance; his memory was wiped going back years. He doesn't remember you and barely recalls his name."
"I'm sorry." He didn't know what else to say.
"Thank you," she gripped his shoulder and squeezed, it felt like she needed someone to talk to. "I…think we can call it a day. I bring news from Lady Freyja that she will not require your services tonight. You are free to do as you will."
"No letters tonight?"
"Plenty, but she desired to handle them herself, she wishes you well and to have a pleasant evening." With that she started heading for the entrance back inside.
She needs a nice night to relax, recharge her batteries and cheer up. Dorian couldn't recall once seeing her with others during her time off. Perhaps being the number one up and coming warrior of Asgard placed her on a pedestal few dared to approach.
"Um," Dorian started, halting her retreat. "When Rossweisse gets off work we've been meeting up at this little pub for dinner. We'd love to have you tonight if you want to come out."
She turned and locked eyes with her pupil, mouth almost dropping open in shock at what he had just told her.
"You and Rossweisse…have been going out?"
"After work every few days," he clarified without breaking his stride. After his victory against Modi he had been true to his word and the two had gone on a shopping spree across the best discount stores in Asgard. Rossweisse could spot high quality at low prices like a hawk. After an especially long session they had found the eatery out of desperation and decided to return as often as they could. "She has later hours so it gives a chance to unwind when we are both done. We have something to eat, have a laugh or two before turning in."
Just as colleagues eh?
"That sounds…nice, where is this little get together held?"
Dorian's face perked up at her acceptance of the invitation. "It's a really quaint place not far from the shopping district. It's called the Wolf's Sacrifice."
Asgard Throne Room…
"Show him in," Odin called to the herald for the next visitor to come forward.
The day had not started well, with the ongoing search for the sword continuing to come up with nothing daily he had less and less time to go out clubbing with beautiful women. All their investigations had concluded were that Hrotti was no longer in any of the nine realms, but where exactly was anyone's guess. His beloved wife Freyja had been the level head per usual and strong-armed him into buckling down on matters of state if only to show the populace that the recent attack had not disrupted the strength of Asgard. She was right of course, but he didn't have to like it.
The great doors swung open, revealing a rather tall man wearing what could be described as an ornate toga adorned in gold and red over top a modern business suit. He wore a laurel wreath crown of gold on his head. On his sandals were tiny wings that flapped with each step which carried him slightly further forward than was natural, giving him the illusion of floating across the floor.
Allfather Odin and Lady Freyja," he bowed gracefully once before the throne. "I come this day with news most excellent."
"We hoped to see your golden wings Hermes," Freyja replied joyously as she knew why he must be there. "How fares your venerable father?"
"Lord Zeus does as well as he can my lady of ladies, alas we are not as prominent as once upon an age."
"We all know the pain of an ever changing world," Odin replied solemnly. The Greek Pantheon's followers were dwindling as quickly as their own on Midgard. Only by working together could they hope to flourish in the days ahead.
"Lord Zeus feels the same, and thus it is what has brought me to your distant shores. With the turmoil besetting the three factions of the Bible, he has decided that the time for delay has passed. I am here to formally invite you and your envoy to the treasured land of Mount Olympus where we may finalize the future together."
Freyja's eyes lit up with a fire Odin had not seen in such a long time, clapping her hands together in satisfaction. "We have long awaited such words and gladly accept them. We shall make preparations to arrive within the coming week…"
"About the time frame," Hermes interrupted apologetically. "The King of Olympus beseeches that you arrive with most haste, by the morrow or the one after at latest if possible."
Odin raised an eyebrow quizzically. "That is a small window indeed, is there reason behind such a request?"
"There is as ever, there has been…unrest in the lands surrounding Olympus, dissenters who do not share such sentiments of cooperation as us. Our hope is for you to arrive and be safe behind the walls of Olympus before they realize your presence and seek to…dissuade you from forging ties of friendship.
The monarchs of Asgard pondered the request in silence. Much sounded risky on what he said, but such an invitation had been years in the making, more could be lost if they hesitated from fear or uncertainty.
"We graciously accept," Odin proclaimed. "As you are aware, we have had dissenters of our own within these very walls. I will send my beloved wife who shall oversee the final preparations, she and those that travel with her will speak for me amidst your halls."
"Most joyous!" The messenger of Olympus jumped slightly with enthusiasm and actually hovered for several seconds. "With your leave, I shall depart to inform my King and Queen of your reply."
"You have it."
Hermes lifted off the ground, the wings on his sandals working double time. He took off out the door once again, seeking to make it outside the barrier protecting Asgard so he could open a portal back to his home.
"Thank you," Freyja whispered to Odin, knowing full well he was sending her due to what such an alliance meant to her. "Thrud and Dorian shall accompany me with the envoy, we must have a show of strength…but not too much to be perceived as a threat."
"I will send Rossweisse as my representative as well," Odin added. "Let the young ones rest for the day and we can inform them on the morrow once the remainder of the envoy is decided."
"Won't you be lost without your Valkyrie?" Freyja asked, glancing at him out of the corner of her eye suspiciously. "I would have thought you wouldn't want her out of your sight."
"She is quite adept at negotiations," Odin coughed nonchalantly into his hand. "She will be of more use there than here watching over an old man like me…regardless of how much I enjoy the sight of her backside...I...I mean by my side. The young girl who stood in during her incarceration was quite acceptable in her duties."
Freyja groaned as the truth became obvious, he wanted to bring Rossweisse's replacement back for what reason she was certain she didn't want to know.
Is Rossweisse the ONLY Valkyrie who does not fall for his infuriatingly perverted charm?
The Goddess of Fertility leaned back in her seat, deciding to allow him his distractions at least this once. They would soon be journeying to the land of the Greek Pantheon, she would be one step closer to her dream…
Wolf's Sacrifice…
"So you two come here often?" Thrud asked as they sat at the bar with drinks in hand. It was quite active as a dozen games and competitions were going on around them ranging from arm wrestling to darts.
"It isn't usually so loud!" He shouted trying to be heard over the room. "I guess they get busy before the weekend."
"Dorian! Thrud!"
The two turned to see their favorite Valkyrie pushing through the crowd. Her hair was a mess, her suit wrinkled and disheveled. Despite that, she had a smile on her face no doubt at the knowledge of her trials being at an end.
"Over here Rose!" Dorian called out; beckoning her to the stool beside him he'd been saving. "Wow, that bad of a day?"
"He can be…quite demanding," she retained her composure despite her obvious desire to vent. "I could really go for…"
On cue, a tall pink drink with a tiny umbrella and straw was placed in front of her by the bartender.
"From the young man," he announced throwing a not so subtle wink to Dorian before returning to the multitudes of patrons. She turned to Dorian with a smile.
"Your favorite, non-alcoholic as always," he returned the grin. His own drink had an acceptable level of alcohol, he could handle it now with his Einherjar constitution, but at their first outing Rossweisse had turned down any such beverages. She didn't say why, but everyone had their preferences.
With a look of utter contentment, the young woman leaned forward, sipping on the straw and sighing at the sweet flavor. The stress seemed to melt from her shoulders with each sip, even her hair appeared to be flattening.
"How were your last few days?"
Dorian groaned, with how rough her days with Odin were he felt bad talking about his time with Lady Freyja. She had a lot of work, but it was enjoyable as he never minded the more clerical side of his job. Also unlike the Allfather, between Thrud and Freyja he didn't need to worry about being ogled while on the job...as far as he was aware.
"Busy," he answered truthfully. "Seems the letters coming from other mythologies and religions have skyrocketed, I barely finished the latest batch last night. But enough about work, did you two have any plans for the weekend?"
Rossweisse's contentment seemed to crack as she slumped onto the counter.
"I don't even want to think that far ahead; just a nice relaxing evening with you, then I need to sleep."
Dorian felt bad, all he could think to do was pat her reassuringly on the back as she continued drinking.
"If you wish, you could assist me in Lady Freyja's garden," Thrud offered. "It is very relaxing, also the Bluebells are in bloom and look absolutely beautiful." Rossweisse must have been tired, she barely nodded in acknowledgement. Dorian could not help but notice that she was already almost done with her drink.
"Oh wow, your day WAS that bad, let me get another," Dorian offered, hopping to his feet before she could dissuade him. The bartender was across the way and would need to be tracked down.
Thrud glanced over at her exhausted colleague, waiting for Dorian to be out of earshot. "So, you two have made this a regular thing?"
"Mmhmm," Rossweisse hummed an affirmative. "Before Dorian came around I usually just went home for the evening, coming out with someone else once in a while is…nice."
"I can imagine meeting with a boy almost daily would be nice," she replied coyly as she chose that exact moment to take a deep sip and look away.
"Thrud! W-we are colleagues in service to Lady Freyja and the Allfather. Such a…relationship would be very…improper!"
"Nothing proper about how the Allfather acts half the time, why not follow suit?" She took another sip, absolutely relishing Rossweisse's exasperated flaps of her mouth yet being completely unable to find the words.
If you don't…you may miss your chance.
Across the Bar…
Dorian pushed ahead, only to spot the bartender dealing with a table in the corner, from the look of it he'd be there a while.
"One guy sharing drinks with two beauties on a cold night and he just walks away," came a voice to the side. "He must be either very sure of his prowess or unable to see what is right before him."
Dorian turned, spotting a tall man leaning against the wall. He did not recognize him though he certainly stood out amid the crowd. He wore a blue business suit similar to Vidar and Rossweisse's, his hair was black as was his goatee, only the dirty blonde bangs stood out. He had a smug grin on his face that Dorian was having trouble determining if he liked or couldn't stand it.
"Um…who are you mister….?"
"Oh, my apologies, how rude of me Mr. Held," he extended his hand in greeting. "Azazel is the name."
Dorian gripped the hand but froze at mention of the name.
Another…no, what are the odds that anyone native to the nine realms would be named Azazel?
"Azazel?" He asked for confirmation. "The Governor General of the Grigori from the Biblical mythology…that Azazel?"
"We prefer religion rather than mythology, but yes. So you've heard of me?"
"I'd hope so…I've written about a dozen letters marked for you since beginning my service with Lady Freyja. I'm surprised a VIP like yourself wouldn't be staying in the diplomatic wing of the palace."
"I find it more comfortable to spend time with the everyday people; all the same I'd be quite grateful if you don't let on who I am."
"What brings you out this way?"
"A favor to the old man…your Allfather," he clarified. "Regarding you in fact."
"Me?"
"Well, apparently they needed someone with an eye for Sacred Gears, I was more than happy to lend my services."
"You are the expert they were calling for?" Dorian was shocked; he had expected a scientist of some sort, not the leader of an entire branch of a neighboring religion.
"You betcha, so are you gonna whip it out or what?"
"What…you mean right here?"
"There's no problem right? No performance issues?" The two did not notice a pair of women watching their exchange with reddening cheeks and growing interest at the word choices chosen between the two men.
Dorian extended his right arm, in a flash Laerad Ragnarok burst to life, a number of patrons took notice and started talking.
"Hmmm, yes definitely a first liberation," he muttered to himself as he looked it over. "I'm guessing you haven't unlocked the Balance Breaker yet?"
He shrugged. "What is a Balance Breaker?"
"I'll take that as a no," the fallen angel muttered almost condescendingly. "A Balance Breaker is the embodiment of your Gear's power. If you had unlocked it, trust me you would know. Suffice it to say, you have a long way to go to using that Sacred Gear to its full potential. This is certainly a true Sacred Gear rather than an artificial one and that means it will evolve based on the emotions of the wielder."
"But how did I get it?" Dorian asked, jumping right to the question that had haunted him. "I was told only the Old God of the Bible created them. She has been nothing but riddles and silence since I was able to hear her."
The knowledge will be presented when you are meant to wield it...
Not helping your case Iggy...
"She?"
"Iggy...Yggdrasil, inside the gear."
"Well, that is the million dollar question kid; I wish I had the answers. My suggestions, keep pushing forward, improve yourself and use your Gear at every opportunity. Form a connection to…her, you've had a good start to training your body; with the right radical catalyst you could push it further. She is more than just a fashionable accessory."
"A radical catalyst?"
"An event or action that begins a great change in you, like a traumatic event or the feeling of accomplishing a dream you had built up in your heart. It would be different for everyone and can be just about anything. We can talk more about finding yours when you return."
"Return from wh…"
A Great horn interrupted them, drawing their attention to the front of the tavern. The bartender had doubled back while Dorian spoke with Azazel. When Dorian turned around, his associate was gone.
"Hear ye hear ye!" The bartender cried. "Have ye all been enjoying yerselves?"
A great roar rose up above as the crowd cheered.
"I suppose ye all think yer the toughest drinkers who've ever graced this establishment don't ya?"
Another roar of agreement, Dorian returned to Thrud and Rossweisse, apologizing at his lack of a second drink for her.
"Well, tonight, we put those words to the test! I want all those who claim such constitution to line up along the wall and all those lovely ladies or dashing men accompanying them to stand on the opposite!"
"You two want to participate? It sounds like fun," Thrud prodded as clearly they were hesitating.
"I don't drink," Rossweisse muttered sheepishly.
"Then stand on the lovely lady's side," she pushed. "Go on Dorian, you were saying how you needed to get more involved, well here you go!"
The two laughed as Thrud pushed them towards the competition, her smile inescapable until they were far enough away. At that moment, to someone watching, the warrior goddess might have looked a tad…jealous.
"Now!" The bartender started once everyone was in their place. "All those who seek to test their minds and bodies, select the one who will be your muse," he paused for dramatic effect. "But choose wisely for how they inspire your soul will surely determine your fate!"
This guy and Misty would get along swimmingly.
"Take heed as well, for it is first come first serve to choose your muses…BEGIN!"
The organized lines instantly collapsed into chaos as those competing, men and women alike burst forward towards those on the opposite side. It was a madhouse as warriors, patrons and everyone in between tackled, bit and mercilessly beat each other in hopes of reaching their desired muse. Many could not choose and were overrun as they stood their gaping. Dozens had volunteered for the muses lined up from end to end, standing there waiting to be chosen. There were beauties of women and impressive examples of male masculinity. Gold hair like Dorian's, brown hair, black, red, bronze, all were present. Despite the multitude of choices, there was only one for the young Einherjar.
Rossweisse had taken a place at the far end; she looked very out of place in her suit compared to the men and women in casual wear. She turned her head and looked away as each competitor neared her, yet all passed by, ignoring the silver-haired beauty before them.
Dorian closed in, shoving a rather large burly warrior out of the way before being sandwiched between a pair of warrior-maidens who had leapt for the same man. Another scrawnier patron lunged out of the corner of his eye, Dorian stopped in his tracks and allowed him to go flying past where he had assumed the young Einherjar would be, crashing into a different man he had not intended to. Crawling beneath the scuffle, Dorian got to his feet, taking off towards Rossweisse.
He gasped audibly; as he emerged from the brawl he spotted a familiar blue-suited individual sauntering towards her. He was somehow avoiding the better part of the fights and would be upon her any moment.
Not on my watch, Dorian growled, barely realizing just how much into the event he was getting. He took off full sprint towards her, barreling everyone out of his way.
"Lady Valkyrie," Azazel bowed low before her, the young woman nodded back politely yet with hesitation. "Of all here, your beauty is quite obviously superior, I believe I would like…"
He didn't get a chance to finish. In a flash Dorian collided with the Grigori Governor General hard in the back, sending them both sprawling to the ground.
"Rose! Please be my muse!" He gasped quickly, panting hard from the effort, pushing Azazel's head back into the wooden floor when he tried to get up. The fights continued on around them as nearly everyone was chosen.
Rossweisse could not help but let out a soft laugh. "Of course," she replied, holding out her hand to help him up, taking their place beside the chosen couples. Azazel staggered to his feet, shuffling over to the bar gripping his back as if in pain near a very entertained Thrud grinning from ear to ear.
"The Allfather will never believe it," she whispered coyly as he sat on the nearby stool. "The great Azazel, conqueror of women and champion of peace, taken out by a young Einherjar still in school. Do we need to alert the guards that you were assaulted?"
"Lucky shot, the kid blindsided me," he rationalized with a final crack of his spine. "It was obvious…he wanted it more."
A likely story…as if you have a blind spot.
"Did you get a good look at him?"
"I did, unfortunately it did not," pulling open his jacket he produced a small device he'd been using to scan Dorian's Sacred Gear when he had summoned it.
"And…?"
"Absolutely nothing," Azazel laughed. "No category or type, strengths unknown, weaknesses unknown. Whatever was used in its creation, my scanner can't detect any of the usual markers that give away a Gear's statistics. And here I was ready to look all smart in front of him. Instead I had to give him the vague 'form a bond with it and find a radical catalyst' advice…it was all I got."
Thrud allowed herself a laugh at his expense as she took another deep sip, it would appear that Dorian's questions would find no easy answers.
The chaos continued for several more minutes, many bar stools and assorted furniture lost their lives that day as was usual for the festivities. Once all had been chosen, the remaining teams stood at the ready, prepared for the next instructions as they paired against their fellow couples. Dorian could not help but notice Ygritte among them towering above the others. He hadn't even heard that she was visiting the city. He muttered silent thanks she'd chosen to be a muse and was not partaking in the competition.
"Now," the bartender continued, covered in bruises. "You shall face yer opponents in combat of the wills. For it is too simple to drink more than another with naught else at stake, to succeed you must bare your mind and passion. For between each round you must devise a sonnet, poem or otherwise artistic compliment to your muse then take a drink. He who can remain eloquent, warm their heart and handle the strongest drinks I have to offer the longest shall be the champion!"
Dorian and Rossweisse both glanced at one another before looking away, having had no idea of the specifics of the game. Yet neither voiced any protest.
The couples were divided by lots, Dorian and Rossweisse found their opponents, a familiar warrior giantess staring them down. Sitting at the table was a tall man with a build not too dissimilar from Modi. He had deep red hair with warrior braids on either side and the most impressively large yet groomed beard he had ever seen. He was grinning from ear to ear as he held out his hand, his identity unmistakable.
"The mighty Ragnar?" Dorian asked as he shook his hand with the sternest grip he could muster. "Ygritte has told me about you."
"Ay, she's been me muse for many moons. I apologize in advance lad but ye and yer friend don't stand a chance."
"You have no idea of the depths of the inspiration she grants me," Dorian retorted. Admittedly he was only so bold as to wipe the smug grin off Ragnar's face, yet his words were truthful all the same. Rossweisse looked away brushing her hair as aloofly as she could as he spoke.
"It's true beloved," Ygritte cooed in Ragnar's ear. "He told me himself she was the reason he was able to brave the wilds of Jotunheim and best Modi in single combat."
Ragnar looked legitimately surprised. "It was her?" Dorian nodded as he pulled over the first drink. "I'll go first!" The veteran of Valhalla proclaimed, the fire in his eyes ignited at the opponent before him as he turned to his wife. "The strongest of women, in arms and eyes…none can challenge the fire in her throat and between her legs!"
Ygritte and Ragnar burst out in raucous laughter together as he down the first drink, flipping it upside down before kissing her passionately.
I can help, the voice of Yggdrasil whispered in Dorian's mind. She had been oddly silent all day yet seemed more than willing to come out for the events. I have many such remarks to feminine beauty…
Don't even think about it, Dorian retorted in his mind. I thank you for the offer, but that'd be cheating...I've got this one.
"Save for the fire in the soul!" Dorian proclaimed as soon as he could. "Many can light the fires of the body, yet she lit the fire of my life, for without her I would not here breathe." He gulped down his own albeit slower than the warrior of Valhalla, slamming down the empty mug.
"Strength to match her beauty, yet eyes like the moon," Ragnar retorted. "No trophy, victory or weapon earned will match the power from but a glimpse of her form."
Surprisingly eloquent, Thrud had to admit as she watched the back and forth. Ragnar was no stranger to drinking contests, Dorian was out of his league.
"The body is but one piece to the larger puzzle of her beauty. Her hair invokes moonlight as her eyes shine deep as the ocean; truly her grace reflects the heavens and Earth."
"Ooooo, bonus points for creative imagery," Azazel complimented beside Thrud. Rossweisse's complexion was reddening by the second. "My money's on the little guy."
"You're on."
The two warrior poets continued their back and forth, emptying mug after mug with each compliment, neither giving an inch as the evening moved on. The table was nearly running out of room for the empty glasses now covering its surface. Other pairs had competed, but upon witnessing the number of drinks imbibed between Dorian and Ragnar had retired, leaving only the two Einherjar remaining.
Rossweisse and Ygritte had been forced to sit from how long the match had been going. The warrior giantess taking a drink for every round Ragnar finished while Rossweisse had a simple glass of water beside her.
"Yer Einherjar is quite skilled with his wordplay," Ygritte admitted. She was growing worried inside, knowing full well that Ragnar could handle far more to drink…yet his own vocabulary was dwindling faster than Dorian's.
Rossweisse's face was flushed as she nodded, over the last hour Dorian had complimented every aspect of her character save for her womanly attributes. No doubt he felt hesitant to venture into such territory. The years of being mocked by her peers on her inability to find a boyfriend had her confidence shaken, believing Dorian did not make such observations due to being unable to compliment her so. In actuality, had the young man done such a thing his victory would have been assured from the start.
"Her…eyes give promises of a brighter future," Ragnar hiccupped as he strove to think of what about Ygritte he hadn't yet complimented. He was quite skilled when it came to her physical appearance, yet struggled with the rest. Dorian had the opposite problem. "Driving you to…no longer wishing to just watch her." Due to their dwindling options they had both devolved into a romantic rhyming scheme.
"To watch is…to waste?" Dorian leaned forward, almost slamming his head into the table before snapping to attention, smacking himself across the face to stay focused. "Waste the time better spent with one such as she, for to seize the day one must make haste."
"Well, as entertaining as this has been," Azazel remarked to Thrud. "I have spent much longer here than I planned. "I hear you will be having an exciting couple of days to come."
Thor's daughter nodded at his words. "We set out tomorrow, if all goes well, we can do the same once your factions finally decide to sit down and talk."
"I hope to see you at the table that day!" Azazel clanked glasses with her before finishing his off. "Tell the kid congratulations."
"Congratulations…for what?"
"On his impending victory, with that silver-haired beauty as his muse, the big guy never stood a chance. Don't sorry, you can pay me later."
Dorian's mind was racing, Ragnar somehow kept up with him, he had shouted Rossweisse's praise to her mind, soul and kindness as many ways as he could. He was running out of options without turning into Ratatoskr.
Surely I can complement her…physical side without coming off as an utter pervert. Between his diminishing inhibitions and growing desperation to win, Dorian was willing to try. Only one way to find out.
"Over all there is," Dorian stood from the table. "Her breasts were made by the gods, naught else to be said!" His drink was emptied in an instant.
Thrud and Rossweisse's jaws hit the floor, eyes wide with how forward Dorian had just been. Ygritte was grinning with pride, internally taking credit for the change from their time in Jotunheim and regretting Ratatoskr's absence. He would have been so proud. Ragnar looked at him confused; with how drunk he was he didn't understand that Dorian had switched away from the rhyming scheme and in that moment slipped up.
"Wait…that…that didn't rhyme!" As per the rules, the next words out of one's mouth must be a compliment or else their turn is forfeit.
"That was a haiku," Dorian slammed his fist on the table. "One for my cherished white rose. For now you are through!" He finished off his mug and slammed it down so hard it cracked.
"And victory goes to Mr. Held!" The bartender announced, causing the remaining patrons to raise a glass in cheer. Few had actually been watching the competition yet ever found reason to raise a glass when they could. "The hero of the night!"
Dorian slumped forward, feeling like his head was about to explode. Turning weakly he gave Rossweisse a cheerful thumbs up.
"How did I do?"
"Y-you…" she couldn't even think of what to say. For the last hour Dorian had done naught but remark and proclaim her utter beauty and grace above all others, as a result her brain was frying and no words would come. "You did…well."
Reaching for her water, while distracted she went too far, taking hold of an unused glass meant for the competition. Still trying to act nonchalant, she downed the whole thing in one gulp.
"Oh no…" Thrud had spotted the mistake.
"Hiccup…" Rossweisse's eyes narrowed sleepily in an instant; she suddenly looked very droopy and was already swaying from side to side.
"Um…Rose?" Dorian asked hesitantly as he noticed her change in demeanor. "Are you alright?"
"Ov coursh I'm alight," she replied, words slurring into barely recognizable syllables. "I ushed to drink all the thime when I virst shtarted working for that ohld man Ohdin."
Drunk from one mug? No wonder she was sticking to water!
"Good luck Dorian," Thrud remarked behind him as she made a clearly exaggerated stretch. "I must turn in for the evening. Rossweisse tends to be a bit more…open when she drinks. You'll make sure she gets home won't you?"
"Thrud…" Dorian reached out, clearly having expected assistance but was disappointed as she quickly paid her tab and ducked out so fast she left a cloud in her silhouette behind.
Under the bus again?
"I shwear!" Rossweisse grabbed onto Dorian's arm and pulled him into the seat beside her. "You're the onlee one who ghives me the thime ov day. Whorking for Ohdin…he's the reason I kan't find a buyfrind!" She immediately started sobbing into his arm, tears staining his sleeve.
Dorian felt so uncomfortable as other patrons including Ygritte and Ragnar slowly backed away, giving some room to the venting Valkyrie.
"I-I'm sure it's not all bad," he tried to comfort, patting her on the back. "You graduated at such a young age; you're serving the leader of Asgard…"
"I ghave him the bessst yearsssh of my live!" she broke down again, his words having the opposite effect. "I'll neveeer fhind shumone papmering that old ghoot every daayy!"
Hoo boy, Dorian let her vent, still patting her back. She is going to be feeling this in the morning. If I can get her out of here, maybe she can detox and…
"Bertander! Gives us fhive more rounds!" Rossweisse held up seven fingers.
Oh no…
Much Later…
"He acsually had me feshing his slippers….ME…*hiccup* zhey were right by the dhoor…"
In the end it had taken much longer and many more drinks to extricate Rossweisse from the bar. Fortunately, the bartender had been a fan of Dorian's match against Modi and allowed him to open a tab.
I know where my next paycheck is going, he sighed.
Rossweisse had barely been able to stand let alone walk after the first drink to say nothing of the tenth. Dorian had somehow managed to get her on his back and was carrying the sloshed Valkyrie to her apartment back at the palace. To keep her comfortable, he had forgone the use of flying, she hadn't stopped venting her frustrations at Odin the entire way.
"Theys weren't even good flippers, I shaww the chame ones for sales the other day at a halfth the cosct."
"He just doesn't know better," Dorian reassured her as they neared her home. "I had no idea even on Midgard there were such high quality goods at reasonable prices. You taught me the error of my ways."
"Yer a fast lerner," she slurred as she leaned forward, wrapping her arms tighter around his chest. "Thatsh why I love hanging out with youuu. Evrythig just feels right with the vorld…*hiccup* Never change."
It was Dorian's turn for flushed cheeks as he felt her press into his back, face nuzzling against the side of his head as she caressed his golden hair. He did not mind it per se…yet he picked up the pace all the same once her room was in sight. He was surprised at how small it was, being little more than a standard single bed apartment even back on Midgard.
Surely the Allfather pays her more than this…right?
After Rossweisse divulged the location of the key in her breast pocket, Dorian pushed open the door, revealing darkness within. With a clap of his hands, the room lit up, it was much barer than he had feared. There was only a single couch in what could barely be considered the living room, a small kitchen filled with dirty dishes in the back with tables around barely large enough for two or three people to sit at comfortably. If Dorian had to guess, she spent very little time there. Only the bookshelf in the back stood out though was filled mostly with textbooks and other educational reading material. An especially thick binder caught his eye as he carried Rossweisse to the bedroom.
Trihexa: The Beginning of the End? He read as he passed it, a shiver running through his body though he didn't know why. Rossweisse wrote it? He noticed by her name at the bottom.
Finally plopping Rossweisse onto her bed in a sitting up position he untied her shoes and slid off her socks, very carefully removing her jacket and tie so she wouldn't roast in the night. His inner gentleman won out in the argument whether that was sufficient…he deemed it was.
"Okay, just lie back," he motioned, but the Valkyrie refused to budge.
"Dorian," she replied more coherently than she had been the last hour. "Around you…I feel…"
"What?" He asked, his curiosity getting the better of him at her softer words. He leaned in closer as she seemed to be doing the same.
"I feel…" he cheeks reddened as they drew near…right up until the moment they puffed out forcibly.
Dorian's eyes shot open wide in horror.
"WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT!" He screamed as he pulled Rossweisse back to her feet, rushing her into the bathroom as quickly as he could. He barely got her there in time before she started vomiting everything she had drunk that evening.
Dorian felt so out of place as he held her hair back, keeping it out of the stream. Another second or two and he would have been too late. He had intended to drop her off then return to his own dorm, but he couldn't leave her like this.
"I'm sorr…" Rossweisse tried to say before starting another round.
"Don't think anything of it," Dorian assured her truthfully. "Just get better; I'll be sure to keep you away from any more drinks."
"Why couldn't more guys be lik…" she couldn't even finish a sentence.
After she had concluded and was no longer in danger of continuing, Dorian had her back in bed. Pulling the covers on, it seemed she had finally dozed off to sleep as her chest rose and fell with each steady breath.
"Sleep well," he whispered before silently tiptoeing out of her room.
"Mhmmm, perfect….buyfrind," she slurred in her sleep unheard as her drinking partner had already left the room.
Dorian let out a wide yawn as he quietly made his way through the apartment, finally reaching the couch and nearby nightstand. Without a peep he opened a tiny portal to the Road Between Realms, reaching in he produced a small box…the same he had attempted to give Rossweisse back in the vault. Odin revealed it had been found on the floor and confiscated during the investigation. At long last he gently laid it on the stand, mission accomplished.
Hopefully she'll be back to normal tomorrow and…see it, he yawned, utterly exhausted and the headache from his MANY drinks that night finally coming full circle. I am sure I can rest for…five minutes.
With that final naïve thought he slumped forward, falling sideways onto Rossweisse's incredibly comfortable discount sofa. Within a matter of seconds he was already snoring.
Dorian Held goes to sleep, unaware of the upcoming mission of monumental proportions to greet him the next day. That is…if he can survive a young maiden's wrath at the revelation of a man spending the night in her home. As always, Read and Review, but most of all Enjoy! :D