Chapter 1
The musings of a Former god
"Thermal hand, level one"
That was the last thing the scientist had said before Othinus was dismissed from the initial system scan. To be honest, she didn't expect to have an outstanding esper ability, she was a former magic god with a limited understanding of espers after all. But she couldn't help but feel disappointed when she was told she was merely a level one with a very common ability.
And to be fair, that was probably the entire point of making her into an esper, it was a way to seal her powers.
Sighing, Othinus stepped out of the facility near the entrance of Academy city and glanced at a phone she had been provided. It was strange to be more actively using mortal technology like this after so long of not needing any of it. But she found herself admiring the sleek design and intuitive functionality of the device. As a god, she had never really taken time to admire mortal devices such as this. But now that she was human, she couldn't help but be curious about the exact goings ons of the touch phone.
This wasn't to say she didn't know the basics, she was Odin for valhalla's sake, no scrap of knowledge escaped her. However she didn't really have the time or motivation to really take a deep dive into the specifics of these things. So, it was oddly refreshing to encounter something she found worth studying.
Putting the phone away, she looked around, her ride was a bit late, but that's what she had to expect from mortals. It just gave her time to think to herself, a lot had happened since the Sargasso and Denmark. While she wasn't given specifics she was at least allowed to know that Touma was recovering before the trial. Thoughts drifting, Othinus found herself looking back at the events which had lead her here in the past few days.
—
Othinus found herself stepping in front of a large building in The Hague situated in the Netherlands. It was the International Criminal Court where she was to be tried for her crimes of terrorism across the world. However despite being the appointed day of the trial, the area was oddly empty for such a huge international event. Even if people weren't allowed nearby, that wouldn't stop thrill seekers and tourists from being curious about the trial of an international terrorist.
There was a good reason for this, signified by the Ophail runes darted around the place to prevent people from getting too close. This wasn't a normal trial and dealt with exceedingly sensitive information connected to the magic side. Any normal civilian or individual not already involved with magic in some way was not allowed to witness the trial directly.
A FBI agent stood behind her and nudged her back with the front of his gun, an anglican beside him keeping their hand above a spiritual item. Othinus's hands were bound in a ivory set of cuffs shaped like a wolf's jaws and she was placed into a tight outfit meant to restrict her mana. She sighed and headed down the path towards the main entrance of the building.
On either side of the walkway, she could see the various tools of war from the magic and mundane. Tanks lined the path, with anti-personnel artillery and even anti vehicle missile launchers paired beside them. Attack helicopters hovered above, circling like vultures, as jets would fly by every now and again with a warhead attached to their underside. Massive floating fortresses from various cultures drifted overhead, and various magical artillery was placed alongside the technological ones.
Red dots of light covered Othinus's body, showing that there were snipers trained on her if she made a wrong move. Normally laser pointers were never used in actual warfare, it gave away the sniper's position so they could be targeted. But here, it was a symbol, a warning and threat, and when it came to magic, that gave it power. Even the position, formation and direction that each and every soldier, vehicle, and weapon was ranged in drew upon the essence of war. The very road she walked upon was inscribed with magic spells in order to prevent her from trying anything.
The architect who had designed all these defenses was a true expert, even Othinus couldn't help but admire their skill. The power of the very world itself had came together to create a defense so air tight, even she was unsure if she'd actually win. And there was only one person in the world capable of creating such perfect anti-god measures that incorporated even the stars,
"Halt! Stay right there Othinus!" Index's child-like voice declared as Othinus arrived at the bottommost step of the entrance. Various magicians and figures surrounded her to draw out the most of their meaning and power arranged in the shape of the tree of Kabbalah. Elizard the crown, Reima as wisdom, Villain as Understanding, Orsola as Mercy, Carissa as strength, Stiyl and Kanzaki as 'beauty', Itsuwa as eternity, Knight leader as glory, Aqcua as the foundation, Tsuchimikado as the Kingdom.
And finally, Index as the Abyss, Da'at, with the archbishop herself standing just behind her, hands on the girl's shoulders. There was something about that woman, a sense that Othinus had about the air around her in this arrangement. For whatever reason, it felt perfect for Lola to share the position of Da'at with Index, like she was made for it.
"I had a feeling this was your handiwork Index," Othinus declared as she came to a halt before the steps. "I'm actually impressed, even for the forbidden library itself, this is very well crafted even I may not get away unscathed. It's a confessional isn't it? The journey one goes through when they go to speak with the christian god? How ironic, yet how fitting. Only you could combine so many contradictory meanings while only adding to the power of the spell. Even the timing of the flyby's arrangement of the armored vehicles and placement of soldiers draws upon the power of the world itself. I'd wager it's on a similar scale to the angel's fal spell that was cast on the summer of august this year. Let me guess… If I was to try to do anything, I'd literally get smited, " Othinus mused, lifting her arms so she could be checked for weapons. "A courthouse, a place of truths where one's sins are laid bare, and they are given punishment," she chuckled. "It very much is like the confessional in a church, I've seen quite a few of them, but you better be prepared for a long list. You're about to learn the burdens of a god other than your own," she started lowering her arms.
Her escorts nodded and stepped away, at which point Othinus was finally allowed to enter. At no point did Index or her guards break formation, not wanting to break their spell as Othinus followed behind. The risk was much too great against someone like Othinus, and it was likely that most here only barely grasped the fact.
Index nodded as she glanced back at Othinus, "I'm not dumb Othinus, I know that even a spell designed to wield the power of the world may not be enough. You could still defeat us if you tried, trying to define you by a spell based in the sephirot may just backfire. You took the name of Odin, and Aleister named Odin as one of the strongest gods alongside Rah and Zeus. But, at least this gives us a good chance against you without your full power," her eyes remained locked with Othinus's as they entered the building.
"You may have turned yourself in, but we cannot take chances," Elizard said as they lead Othinus deeper into the international criminal court. "But, I'm sure you understand that already, here, you will be tried for your crimes against the world, and any others you may admit to. That is… if you wish to divulge them for whatever reason, anything you say can and will be used against you."
Othinus's head lowered slightly, "oh there is much that I have to confess to, that much is true. I expected nothing less from those who would try me, however I do have a question if I am allowed." Her eyes met the queen's, "did the human get the medical attention he required?"
Elizard chuckled a little, "Kamijou Touma is alright, last I hear, he was caught running around outside the hospital. And he hasn't even recovered yet, honestly, whoever ends up his lucky woman will need to learn to keep him on a tight leash." Her joyful laugh got Othinus to crack a fond smile before someone else interrupted.
"Your majesty, I suggest refraining from interacting with the prisoner before the trial," Knight Leader warned. "I will admit that till now she's been co-operative, but we cannot be getting lax in our security despite this. She is still a very dangerous and powerful magician with knowledge enough to become a god," the man stated with a cold expression.
"Yes… my apologies, you are right," Elizard straightened out and sighed, "I just feel it's unfair to Othinus considering what Kamijou did for her."
Stiyl frowned in disgust, "I still don't get why the boy would just change sides like that. How dare he abandon Index and side with a terrorist, he was meant to be protecting her. Not an enemy of the world, I swear, next time I see him I'm going to," he trailed off as Kanzaki lightly tapped his head.
"Kamijou Touma may have protected Othinus, but that at no means says he ever abandoned Index. I'm ashamed of myself because he embodies my magic name better than I ever could. We all just labeled Othinus as evil and refused to even try to look past that, yet he did and look what he achieved. He changed the mind of one who would have been a god," Kanzaki gestured, "how could I be mad at that?"
"Probably because that boy suddenly changed sides for no apparent reason," Carrissa smirked. "I however am more impressed at how he managed to survive let alone convince a magic god to change her mind. Just what happened between the two of them?" she shook her head grinning, "Imagine breaker has balls."
"The boy has always had a knack for finding the parts people keep hidden and showing them a path they had no idea they could choose. It appears that applied to gods too," Acqua gave a short chuckle, "he really is a different kind of mercenary."
"Thats what I told him," Villain softly chuckled, "I find it a shame you two keep ending up as enemies Willaim. The two of you have a lot in common you know, you should be working together more often than against. It was what allowed you to save my home," she smiled softly, before her eldest sister decided to speak.
"Yes... the Imagine Breaker is quite the enigma, but one can't deny his actions and lack of ulterior motive. He truly does just wish to protect others he believes deserve to be save, no matter who they are or what they did. My best sources couldn't dig up any real dirt on him," Remia noted, examining her fingernails.
"Nyah~ are you saying you've been spying on Kami-yan princess?" Tsuchimikado snarked from the back. "Careful what you say, otherwise this court might end up being about a little more than Othinus's crimes against humanity. What would happen if they found out a princess had a thing for a highschool boy?" he snarked, getting a deathly glare from Remia.
"Kamijou-san may be unpredictable, but I've never doubted him for a moment," Itsuwa blushed nervously. "If he believes Othinus deserves a second chance, then I trust him, his judgment of people is rarely ever wrong after all. E-even if he does seem to move on from things too quickly," she muttered the last bit causing Othinus's eyes to narrow.
"Touma will be Touma, honestly, how could I be so stupid, was I really that worked up that I'd risk the world?" Index pouted bashfully, "but, Touma wanted to save you, and I intend to help him do that, so I'll do my best to provide a good case for you."
Othinus raised an eyebrow in confusion as they entered a smaller room just before the trial entrance. "Really? I'd have thought you'd wish me dead, have you really forgiven me for what I've done nun?" she asked curiously.
Index's eyes narrowed, "don't mistaken me One Eyed Othinus, I haven't forgiven you, not at all. I know what you did to Touma, if just a small fraction of it, I know you hurt Touma in ways I can't imagine. But, Touma said you changed, so I'm gonna make sure you make it up to him okay?" she then smiled. "Maybe you can earn my forgiveness too, Touma certainly believes so," the small nun let out a soft huff.
The only person who hadn't spoken was Lola, that unsettling smile remaining plastered on her face that seemed too kind. Othinus swore she saw something shift in her hair, a small face that was keeping it's gaze on her or something. She was up to something, and whatever the verdict of the trial would be, that wicked woman… If she was even human, Lola Stewart would win. But whatever those plans were, unless it affected her human, wasn't any of Othinus's concern anyways.
The doors to the main court began to open and Othinus sighed, "I see… well then, lets get this over with. I'd hate to waste anymore time than I have to with mortal bureaucracy," she gave a small smirk.
As Index and her escort entered the room, spreading out across the room to maintain their formation. Othinus took a deep breath, relaxing her mind, there was no time to be worrying about her understander. Right now she just needed to focus on getting through the mortal's legal system, straightening out, Othinus looked forward.
And took a step through the courtroom doors.
—
Othinus was snapped out of her thoughts by the sound of a car approaching from down the road. The vehicle came into view, rounding a corner before slowing to a gradual halt just beside Othinus on the pavement. The passenger side window lowered, revealing a older woman with black hair tied into a ponytail wearing a tracksuit in the driver's seat. A sideways trident symbol could be seen on her shoulder signifying her as a member of Anti-skill as she turned to look at Othinus.
"You're Magic god Othinus… right?" she asked with her eyes narrowing suspiciously.
"Hm?" Othinus looked up from her phone disinterestedly, "former god actually, but you must be the human's PE teacher. Yomikawa is it? I must say I'm slightly impressed that you know who I am. I doubt the city or other powers involved let that information be public, either way you should refer to me as Alfothar if you don't want to draw attention."
Yomikawa stared into Othinus's eyes sternly before hesitantly opening the passenger door. "Its a bit difficult to forget the international terrorist they sent all 7 level fives after. Whether or not they listened to the call," she began, "I just want to know what genius thought it was a good idea to make you of all people an esper."
Othinus got in and placed her feet on the dashboard, crossing her legs, "believe it or not mortal, it actually a way to weaken me. I cannot use my full power as an esper due to the practice being incompatible with the power curriculum. If I did try to use any of my old techniques, it'd cause a conflict within my body and risk causing my body to burst. And now that I'm human once again, I can't just restore my body from such lethal blows," she explained as she continued scrolling through her phone.
"I see…" Yomikawa's eyes narrowed, "I don't know why you keep calling me mortal, or if you really do believe you were a god once. But I doubt that academy city would send all seven including Accelerator after you if you weren't able to back it up." Turning out of the driveway, she began to drive down the road, "is that why they called you a magic god? You related to that Esther girl who could raise the dead? I heard that you did something similar to Kagun."
"You're fairly observant, I'll give you that mortal, however no, I am unrelated to that so called Necromancer. The spells I used to control Bersi were of my own design and was an incomplete version of the Enhinjar spell I used to resurrect fallen warriors. However, I'd hardly consider that girl who's ancestor tried to use the memory of the network to create the perfect golem a 'necromancer." Othinus scoffed as she put her phone away, "if anything, the Golem created using those memories was the true necromancer."
There was a moment of silence as Yomikawa turned an intersection towards district 7, "you keep throwing those words around. Magic, spells, necromancer, golem, occult terms relating to superstitions and mystical practices. I've seen it before, that Sherry woman? Esther, Vento, World War Three? And then you… are you telling me magic is real?"
Othinus's eyes suddenly narrowed, "I'd be very careful what questions you ask mortal woman. The answers you seek will lead you to secrets you are not meant to know about, and trust me. There is a very good reason the side of the world we come from is kept hidden, and there are those who go to great lengths to keep to that way." Turning to gaze into Yomikawa's eyes, Othinus spoke in a low, cold tone, "so if you value your life. I suggest you stop looking into it before you get caught," she hissed before looking forward again. "Now can we hurry up? My understander is waiting, and I'd rather none of those unworthy mortal bitches to get their hands on him."
"Fine… but I'm not going to stop looking, this 'magic' has threatened my students on more than one occasion already. If I have to risk being locked away in a dark cell in order to be prepared to face it the next time it rears it's ugly head. So be it, I'd rather be punished for doing the right thing and protect those kids than to get away with doing the wrong thing."
"Hm…" Othinus chuckled, "I see, foolish, but admirable, I can see why the human trusts you so much mortal." She gave the Anti-skill woman a sidelong glance, "do not let him down, otherwise I can't guarantee I won't kill you."
Yomikawa's eyes narrowed, "don't worry… I'd die before I let harm come to any of my students if I can stop it." She glanced at Othinus, "and as much as I hate it… that includes you too now," she gave a small smile. "So… mind telling me why you were sent here?" she asked as they passed into district seven.
Falling silent for a moment, Othinus's expression grew soft, "pennance ... what else?" she said, and turned to the window.
—
"One eyed Othinus, you hereby have been convicted of International subterfuge, Mass manslaughter, destruction of military property and natural reserves, illegal entry, disruption of civil liberties, obstruction of international affairs and International terrorism How, do you plead," middle aged man, with a cold expression asked, gazing down at Othinus from his podium.
The trial was already within mid swing due to the severity of the individual being convicted. However it wasn't at all a conventional trial, most of those involved were not of the magic side. And the few newbies in the form of the US representatives including Roberto were mostly unconnected to the magical aspects of the world. They were still learning the ropes and only understood the bare minimum of what they needed for the trial. The man convicting Othinus was one of the few who was part of a neutral magic organization who had been unaffected by GREMLIN's actions. It was a rushed job, but this was the first time in history a magic user had officially been put on trial.
"Guilty… on all accounts," Othinus stated plainly, her eyes locked with the man standing on the podium. "In more ways than you could possibly ever know even if you read through every single atrocity in human history."
Members from almost every single last magic faction guarded him alongside the other major players in the room. Including ones from groups Othinus wasn't sure even the larger organizations knew about. She could even see members of The Dawn Colored Sunlight scattered amongst them bolstering their forces. They were not taking any chances, willing to even temporarily work with criminal forces to ensure their safety.
And it only made sense, they had to handle Othinus with the utmost care, even if she wasn't a magic god anymore. After all, she didn't start as one either, even now she was the single most powerful and dangerous person in here besides maybe the anglican archbishop. If things went wrong and they upset her, Othinus very well could slaughter every last person in this room with ease.
The middle aged magician taking the role of judge crossed his hands together, "are you going to confess to the crimes of which we are unaware of?" He raised his eyebrow curiously, "if so that would be a show of good character on your part and would lessen your sentence."
Othinus gave a wry chuckle and looked at the judge with a mocking expression, "and get locked up in a mental asylum? No thank you, even if I confessed, the magnitude and severity of my crimes are so immense you don't even have a way to categorize them. Even if you believed me when I told you," she sighed, giving a bitter expression, "it wouldn't be the first time people called me insane."
There were some murmurs amongst the various parties when Roberto stood up and held a hand up. "Could this have something to do with the 'perfect world' mentioned by your accomplice who convinced you to surrender?" He gave a narrow gaze, careful not to use the name of her understanding, which she respected as it meant he honored their deal. "Such a claim is outrageous without proof, unless you can explain it in a way that is proven to exist."
Othinus bit her lip, eyes falling as she grimaced before she heard a familiar voice speak up and Index stood.
"I think I can provide an explanation," she said, "If I am allowed to?" she asked with a tilt of the head.
The judge crossed his arms, "it would be very much appreciated Index Librorum Prohibitorum," he said with a cold look.
Index bowed and cleared her throat, holding up a set of document, "if you turn to the baggage city incident on the documents provided. You'll see a detailed account from various third parties caught up in the incident itself on the experiment GREMLIN was enacting there. From this we can summarize they managed to replicate the effects of something similar to that of a holistic esper. Creating a sort of… phantom zone which was separate from regular space… People trapped in there were unable to interact with the outside world. I think it's safe to say what Othinus did at the Sargasso was a perfected version of this, allowing her to create a closed plain of space separated from the rest of the world fully under her control."
Murmurs spread through the court room again, as people flipped through the documents and nodded to each other. "So, in essence you mean to say we could compare what happened to the creation of a singularity? A pocket dimension much like those Academy city has attempted to create in their labs?" Rosline asked. "If so… that would explain the discrepancy in the apparent timeframe and how the Imagine Breaker changed sides in a moment."
Index frowned until Lola whispered into her ear, "oh! Yes thats a perfect example, but a bit extreme really. Think of it more as a shifted plain that exists within our own world but separate like a space between comic panels!" She smiled a bit and more murmur's spread through the court room, nodding as various things were said.
"Othinus was using magic and science, so it's not entirely impossible, magic picked up where science lacked and vice versa." A man muttered near the anglicans, "truly she's befitting of the title of a god, especially one such as Odin."
Othinus felt a small smile creep onto her face as she gave a small chuckle, they were all fools for thinking it was something so simple. But she was impressed at how Index quickly managed to give an explanation using existing evidence. In essence explaining away her power as what that one kid obsessed with hero's in an anime about dead spirits being summoned to battle over christ's cup had^1. Under most circumstances such an explanation would be ludicrous, but they had an existing example as well as scientific concepts to apply to it.
Roberto scratched his chin, "I see… so its more like the inverse of what happens near a black hole. Time within her space could have been stretched out for who knows how long… truly that fits what Kamijou described. Imagine what would have happened if she could have done that on a continental, or even global scale."
It was almost amusing that they thought she had been contained to this tiny blue marble known as earth at the high of her power. But she would let it pass, they were understanding her power in their own ways, and that was the first step to curing ignorance.
"We can't leave someone like that alive, we all know every one of our countries would want that kind of power. No way can we just let America have that," hissing was heard near the jury as more muttering spread.
"If she had managed to replicate such a fearsome power on a global scale there would have been no one who could stop her. How can we just let her run free? Can we even kill her? Even if she's no longer a god she's still a master of magic isn't she?" Another voice whispered, and the descent spread, infecting the entire court like a sickness as Othinus felt their cruel eyes bore into her.
They wanted her dead
They feared her
They didn't want to risk what she would do if they let her live.
Just like before…
Biting her lip, Othinus squeezed her eyes shut, her chest squeezing, she had forgotten how much it hurt. Being judged by those who didn't understand you, who refused to look past all the labels and titles to who you were underneath. Just seeing a monster that ended countless lives in an act of rampant cruelty for no apparent reason. Not allowing you to speak your case just because they feared that you would prove them all wrong.
And she hated it
But most of all… she hated the idea she'd never see Touma, her understander, again.
"SO WHAT!?" she suddenly cried out and everyone fell silent, "what is wrong with wanting to create your own little perfect world? I've been ostracized, ridiculed, judged and hated all my life called names some which I dare not even speak in this courtroom. Is it any wonder I lashed out when everyone looks at me with the same fearful eyes you do right now!? And yet… through it all… no matter what I did to push everyone else away to protect my weak heart. He still reached out, he saw past the shitty cold facade I put up and decided to save me despite everything I did to him!" Her head came up, tears dripping down her face that was contorted in rage, "you have no idea how badly he has suffered. I forced him to live through what I had countless times and he still reached out to me, to hold my hand and pull me out of my own hell! International terrorism? Manslaughter? Destruction of military property? HAH! All of that is nothing to the horrors I committed onto that one boy! That one boy who found it in himself to forgive a monster like me who saw that small, glittering light in the muck of my soul. And cleared away the gunk so that I may finally shine again," she panted growling as she continued her rant. "I… finally found something in this world worth protecting with all my life, and you want to take that away from me! To take that away from him! His victory, his conquest! His triumph of saving this cruel war god! After all I have done to him, it is my duty to make it up to him, to protect and support him with all my being. To give my life just to see him smile, and I can't do ANY of that, if I am dead! Death is just an escape from my crimes. And I will not sully his name by allowing myself to be executed!" she took a deep breath, before letting loose the rest of her wrath. "The only reason I am even here is because I don't wish to cause that boy anymore trouble and not doing so would only cause the world's anger to be turned against him. I'm going to ease that boy's burden either way, and there is nothing you can do to stop me even if you tried. It's just easier to do that if it's an official sentence by the trial rather than an illegal personal act of atonement!"
The court fell silent as Othinus gave a long sigh, before closing her eyes and taking a deep breath through her nose.
Eventually the murmurs began once more, as the various factions discussed amongst themselves about her outburst. Many believing it to be an act to gain their sympathy and wondering if they should consider this an act of violation of her agreement. Each of those faceless voices mocked and ridiculed her, calling her a deceiver… a warmonger.
A liar
She couldn't love, she was just a power hungry wannabe wargod who was attempting to get off easily. They couldn't trust her, she was a liar who had played all sides at once, this was all just an act to get them off her tail.
War god
Betrayal god
Deceiver god
It was happening again, those titles being thrown around just as they had been all those years ago when she was wide eyed and young.
Othinus's head fell, and she took a shaky breath, eyes squeezed shut as her shoulders slumped in defeat. She knew there was no way to convince them now, they would convict her and sentence her to death for her crimes. And she couldn't let that happen, not when she hadn't managed to make it up to her understander.
A single tear ran down her cheek, and she gathered her resolve, ready to tear down the court when.
"Declassify the footage," her eyes flew wide.
Who said that?
"But Mr. president!"
"I said, declassify it… Elizard? You're with me on this?" Roberto's hushed voice was heard as Othinus's eyes glanced to the side.
"This is your operation, you should be asking them," the Queen stated, gesturing her head.
"The roman Catholic church is with you," Pietro Yogdis gave a bow.
"The russian Orthodox is with you," the russian Patriarch declared.
"The rest of Italy is also with you," the Italian representative said
"France is with you," the Maiden of Versallies said with a smile, "we owe that boy."
Roseline gave a grimace and sigh, "very well Mr. President…" she held a hand to her ear, "declassify the Denmark footage."
—
All over the world, news stations went abuzz with excitement as they received a live broadcast from the trial of Othinus. The gears of society began to turn as they found themselves able to place a face to the name of the terrorist. No one could stop what was to come now, wether for better or worse, Othinus's name, and face were now known. As the US president stepped up to the camera and adjusted his tie, ready to address the world alongside his allies.
"What!? Who's broadcasting, what's going on!?" the judge looked around in a panic before his eyes fell onto the row of seat in the back. "This is a highly sensitive court, we cannot be allowing a live broadcast of vital international secrets! Stop this right now Roberto Katzte, you have no idea what you are doing!" he shouted and stood, but did not move from his position.
Murmurs began to spread as the screen in the back of the room lit up, to show the broadcast being shown. A news anchor excitedly talking as those in the room began to grow nervous, realizing trying anything would be a mistake. The archbishop of the anglican church even clicked her tongue, eyes narrowed in annoyance as she growled.
"In a shocking turn of events, we are getting a live address from the Trial of the terrorist one eyed Othinus. The president of the United states has even provided us classified footage of the denmark manhunt and plans to speak to the peoples of the world." The news anchor's cheery voice echoed out, as Roberto, dusted off his suit, before glancing back at the judge.
"What does it look like?" he asked with a stern gaze, "I'm giving her the fair trial you arrogant magical dickheads refuse to! You're so concerned with keeping magic secret and eliminating a perceived threat that you're ignoring the person you're convicting. She wronged the world, so the world is the only one with the right to give the final verdict," he declared, and straightened out as the camera began to roll.
"Peoples of the world, as you may or may not know, I am the president of the United states, Roberto Katze." Roberto's face was displayed on the broadcast, as he began to make a speech to the world at large. "In these past few days, we have gone through many trials and tribulations as a result of the attacks of the Terrorist organization Gremlin. And, I imagine, a lot of you have been anxiously glued to your television screens or scrolling through the internet for answers." He took a breath, "so now, I would like to ask you all a question, one that may determine the fate of not just one person. But of us, humanity as a whole, based on our decision today to either spare, or condemn the life of one other."
Taking a deep breath, Roberto continued, "Is Othinus, the leader of Gremlin truly evil? There is no doubt she was certainly a villain. Her actions in Tokyo, Baggage city and even the US's very own Hawiian islands have left scars that left no question as to the kind of person she was."
All over the world, faces turned quietly to their screens, some holding up phones, others listening over the radio. But all, holding their breath, wondering what the president of one of the world powers would say next to make his case.
"But is Othinus truly irredeemable?" he asked, as soldiers, civilians, monks and atheists all turned their heads to listen. "Those directly involved in these incidents no doubt want her punished for her crimes against humanity. And I don't believe they are wrong in desiring such, but… can we really feel right, or just if we strap someone to an electric chair. To have someone put before a firing squad and shot at, or executed with poison in a room with those who hate them staring on. Can we really feel just, and right doing that, if the person in question truly regrets their actions? Truly is pained by the suffering they caused? If that very person, we deemed as evil, throws their own life on the line to save just one of those caught in the fire of blinded justice?"
The president gave a long solemn sigh before continuing, "I am not a philosopher who can discuss the complexities of good and evil. When I was sworn into office as president, I placed my hand on the bible as I made my oaths, but im not a clergyman. Nore am I an intellectual theologian, which is why I am asking you, the people of the world for their opinion."
Besides the presidents face, footage from denmark began to play to show clips of Touma and Othinus's travel from after they parted with the americans.
"I'm sure, a large number of you would be satisfied, maybe even saved by the taking of a harsh revenge. But im sure… no… I know there are others still, who would be saved by giving Othinus just this one chance after all this hardship. Maybe not many, maybe they could be counted on a single hand, but I know at least one person, would cry tears of joy if she was allowed a chance." He looked up into the camera, "but… what do you all think," he said, before the camera turned to the russian patriarch.
"Othinus's crimes are… innumerable, and her sins even more so, but is it really in line with our faith to declare her irredeemable? I feel that is a question we must reconsider," the young boy began, before his voice grew stronger. "When some of the apostles came to question and denounce the son of god, did he punish them when they came to regret their mistakes? No… he forgave them, all of them, just as he forgave Judas, just as he forgave the murderer on the cross beside him. Just as he forgave the tax collector and Merralin Monroe," he met the camera with a stern and passionate gaze. "This is god testing us, are we to give into our hatred and choose the easy way out by putting Othinus to death? Or, will we find strength within ourselves, and forgive her, giving her a chance to make up for the wrongs she committed?"
Somewheres in the world, the parents of a certain boy found themselves pausing as they drove to see their son in the hospital. Turning to the radio to listen as a question was posed to the world about the one who had caused their son so much grief. "I want you all to cast aside your preconceptions, forget about what has happened, and look to what is with unclouded eyes."
Much to everyone, including Othinus's shock, the camera became trained on her tear stained face as she stood there in shackles.
"Look once more, not to the terrorist known as Othinus, but that girl shedding tears as she's surrounded by the cold hammer of justice. Had she done nothing but hide behind the one who had chosen to protect her, she might have been saved. Yet despite that, she knowingly chose to allow herself to be taken in and surrendered to the power of the world. She could choose to break out at any time, yet willingly allows herself to risk a fate worse than death bestowed by the world. And all to protect the boy who stood against the world for her, from the fangs of malice that were directed her way."
In a windowless tower, a small smirk formed on a pale human's face.
"What sin is there in that? What sin can be given to one who chooses to atone despite having no need to subject oneself to such? Our teachings are not kind enough to condone the cruel, criminal actions of death she has committed onto the world. She must live and atone for her sins, and when she has done so, I want her to be saved the same as anyone else. As by showing even Othinus can be saved, we can shine a light to countless others going down the wrong path."
The patriarch took a breath, "I believe, there are many ways we can resolve this matter, and we must choose one of these options. Will we watch over the goodness that has begun budding within the evil that is Othinus and allow her to in turn spread that goodness to others? Or… will we crush that goodness along with the evil out of fear that she may not change? Place your hand over your hearts my friends, if you listen to the voice of truth, you will know which one will not leave you with guilt."
"When I look upon Othinus, I see a reflection of Humanity's own hearts," his expression became more laxed. "Someone so full of pain, and anger at the world around them for ignoring them and letting them suffer that they lashed out. Giving into justifiable anger is simple and perhaps even enjoyable, but those who drown in it will learn the truth about themselves. Violence is still violence and it will be their own faces they see reflected in the mirror."
In a hospital in Tokyo, a woman cradled her newborn child as the camera turned to Queen of England, Regnant Elizard.
"During the manhunt, killing Othinus was the only option we could think of," she began as the denmark footage continued to roll beside her. "But a certain young man showed us a completely different path, one which as head of state, I must show my respect for. It could not have been easy for him to overcome the anger, resentment, fear, doubt and anguish and all other emotions he felt. Yet, he chose to see past them in spite of this to reach an answer none of us ever could," she took a breath.
"We lost not to the power of Magic god Othinus, or to that boy's willingness to reach out a hand and forgive. Lets just face the facts we all surrendered to our fear and doubts, and allowed it to blind us to the fact that Othinus was still human. As chaos had swept the world, we became obsessed with the idea that killing her was the only option available. And now that we've admitted it, we must bare that cross with the mantle of the loser," she straightened out.
In a middle school dorm room, a brunette haired girl's eyes narrowed as she clicked her tongue and rolled sideways. Turning off her radio as Elizard continued her speech to the people of the world, deciding she did not want to listen.
"Many, many stories, speak of slaying a dragon as a feat of greatness, as a hero cannot save dragons. But this one normal boy, who has nothing but a fist to fight with, achieved what not even the strongest hero could. He stuck his hand into the muck, and saved the dragon as well as the princess, breaking the curse of Fafnir. Can we truly say it is good for the hero to rush in and slay that dragon now? I think not, but don't take it from me… take it from the dragon herself who's very heart was laid bare this day."
Eyes widened further as the words of desperation Othinus had spoken only moments prior, echoed out through the room. Surprising even Othinus herself as the pain anguish and regret spilled out into every corner of the world with an undeniable truth. Othinus's own voice catching in her throat as her own words were thrown back at her without hesitation.
"SO WHAT!? what is wrong with wanting to create your own little perfect world? I've been ostracized, ridiculed, judged and hated all my life called names some which I dare not even speak in this court room. Is it any wonder I lashed out when everyone looks at me with the same fearful eyes you do right now!? And yet… through it all… no matter what I did to push everyone else away to protect my weak heart. He still reached out, he saw past the shitty cold facade I put up and decided to save me despite everything I did to him! You have no idea how badly he has suffered. I forced him to live through what I had countless times and he still reached out to me, to hold my hand and pull me out of my own hell! International terrorism? Manslaughter? Destruction of military property? HAH! All of that is nothing to the horrors I committed onto that one boy! That one boy who found it in himself to forgive a monster like me who saw that small, glittering light in the muck of my soul. And cleared away the gunk so that I may finally shine again. I… finally found something in this world worth protecting with all my life, and you want to take that away from me! To take that away from him! His victory, his conquest! His triumph of saving this cruel war god! After all I have done to him, it is my duty to make it up to him, to protect and support him with all my being. To give my life just to see him smile, and I can't do ANY of that, if I am dead! Death is just an escape from my crimes. And I will not sully his name by allowing myself to be executed! The only reason I am even here is because I don't wish to cause that boy anymore trouble and not doing so would only cause the world's anger to be turned against him. I'm going to ease that boy's burden either way, and there is nothing you can do to stop me even if you tried!"
A stunned silence fell across the court as the judge, jury and witnesses alongside Othinus herself found themselves speechless. The words having struck them again, but this time, rather than passing it off as another trick by the one eyed Othinus. It resonated with their very souls, as they became unable to deny the sincerity in those desperate cries for help. Bitter expressions of shame formed on the faces around the god as Roberto's voice spoke up, one last time, filled with a soft, heavy tone.
"So now… we leave it up to you, people of the world… do we kill the evil that is Othinus? Or do we forgive it? Because today, I would like to test the strength of humanity alongside the rest of you. Go to social media, go to the comment sections of videos, take to the streets anywhere your voices can be heard!, and give us your answer. If justice is to be served, and Othinus is to be executed, say nothing, but if we are to forgive her, and give her this chance to atone…. "
"Say yes."
—
A soft expression formed on her face as they drove up to a certain highschool where she would be attending with her understander. She had remembered the long deathly silence that had followed after Roberto's question, and how anxious she had been. Despite all her power, she had for once found herself worried about how others might respond to her. Terrified of what their opinions on her were and what they might say about her when she was vulnerable.
She remembered how the silence had dragged out and the judge was about, make his verdict and condemn her to death.
Before the world had shook
Othinus had found herself in utter disbelief when she had felt the vibrations running through the ground. The constant pinging coming from people's phones as the internet was overwhelmed by billions and billions of updates. How the very air had hummed with the voices of the world, calling out in unison, how each of them had been chanting the same thing, over and over and over again.
"Save Othinus"
She hadn't believed it, how could so many people forgive her like that? After all she had done, after the pain she had caused. Why wasn't there just cruel silence to follow? Why did they have to make it so hard by wishing her to be saved? If they had remained silent she could have just broken out and run off to protect her understander the hard way. But those idiotic mortals had to forgive her, they had to break through her frozen heart and make it crack just slightly.
They had to ask for her to be saved…
And she had cried.
Countless posts on social media, even from the countries she had personally wronged had cried for her forgiveness. Asking how death was justice if she was not allowed to right the wrongs she had committed onto them first. Families in Hawaii, devastated by her asking how such a young girl could be forced into such a horrible position as to want to destroy the world.
For once in her life, for once in her long, long… eternal life…
Othinus felt seen.
"Heh…" she smiled to herself looking out the window, "damn mortals… maybe the human's faith in you wasn't misplaced."
"We're here Othinus," Yomikawa's voice cut through her thoughts as she parked just outside of Touma's school. "Lets go to the Teacher's lounge, and finish working out the details of your enrollment shall we? No doubt you'll want to know what it is you'll be required to do if you wish to remain part of this school." The Physical Education teacher got out and opened the passenger side door for Othinus as the two of them made their way inside.
It was early morning, so students were packed in the halls, loitering about before going to their classes. Othinus and Yomikawa made their way through the sea of students and up towards the teacher's lounge. Various glances were sent the former god's way as murmurs spread between students as the duo made their way through the halls. Stopping outside the teacher's lounge, Yomikawa turned and held her hand up for Othinus to wait before going inside. Likely hoping to get the room to herself so that she and the former god turned student could talk on more sensitive matters.
Sighing, Othinus stood there, arms crossed when a pair of male students walked up to her, and leaned against the wall either side of her. Raising an eyebrow, Othinus decided to ignore them and looked back to the door, tapping her finger against her bicep. However, it appeared the two boys weren't the type to take a hint as one reached out and tapped her shoulder, clearing his throat.
"Hey, you must be new here, I haven't seen a foreign beauty such as yourself, around here. Are you from abroad?" Asked the first teenage boy, clearly smirking as he was clearly checking her out. "Once your done with the teachers , how about I show you around?, stick with me and maybe you'll see something you like" winked the boy as he put one hand on the wall, leaning down slightly and getting closer to Othinus. Who was thinking of just kneeling him in the balls for foolishly getting near her face as she just looked at him with no interest whatsoever.
"Dude you must be blind, a beauty of her caliber, she's clearly more into someone who's strong enough to protect her, she must like guys who go to the gym" the other teenage boy said as he went to Othinus's side and tried to show off his muscles. "I apologize beautiful for my friend, he doesn't understand someone as beautiful as you needs someone strong next to her, what do you say we get out of here and I show you who owns this school" said the teen as he flexed his muscular arms.
Othinus did an irritated sigh as she breathed deeply before answering. "Listen here you pathetic mortal perverts, I'm just going to say this once, I don't have the patience to deal with your annoying dribble. Fuck off, the two of you have no chance in hell, if you continue your pointless peacocking. Both of you will feel me break a wrist each and leave either ankle in shattered splinters, if you don't get out of my face. You're both equally annoying," promised Othinus in a cold voice as the two teenage boys both slightly jumped.
The first boy who had his arm on the wall looked at Othinus for a moment as he blinked and slightly blushed at her threat. "OH shit, kamidere much? Bro she's definitely got that dominatrix vibe going for her," said the boy as his friend nodded in agreement. "I don't mind some role-playing if that's what you're into, how about I get that number and we can have some fun later, what do you say?" said the boy as he continued his flirting.
The second boy laughed. "Dude your blind, she obviously needs someone strong enough to handle her punishments, she's the type of woman who would break you in half and laugh as she continued her rough housing, how about the two of us get out of here and you can show me how rough you can be, I can take it as long as it's you, so come on how about that number and we'll definitely show you a good time what do you say? He grinned.
"I warned you," Othinus said, causing both boys to become confused.
Next moment, she grabbed the first boy's hand, and twisted it, slamming him against the second and knocking him over. Swinging her heel down, it slammed into the first boy's ankle, and pinned it against the second's wrist. A sickening crack came from both as Othinus reached down and grabbed the second boy's ankle and lifted it. Before another crack was heard, and she twisted it, breaking their opposing limbs as they both fell to the floor in a heap.
Dusting her hands off as the two boys groaned, she straightened out, "just like I promised, I broke an ankle and wrist each." She flicked her hair back as students silently stated her way and muttered amongst themselves. "Anyone else want to have a go?" she asked, and the students quickly parted just as the door opened.
"Alright we should be able to…" Yomikawa trailed off seeing the two students lying on the ground beside Othinus. "What did you do!? I thought you agreed not to cause any problems while you were here!" she asked in shock.
"They were bothering me, and I gave them a warning, not my fault horny mortals ignore their survival instincts." Othinus stepped in and looked back, "shall we continue out conversation then… sensei?" she asked slightly mockingly. "I'd very much like to hurry up and see my understander if you don't mind, so let's finish this pointless paperwork."
Yomikawa gave an exasperated sigh, holding her forehead, "Fine, just let me call the nurse to get these two boy's some medical attention. Seriously, if they were bothering you, you should have just gotten my help, then you wouldn't need to draw so much attention." She grabbed the phone off the wall and dialed an extension before waiting for the other end to pick up.
Othinus sat down in one of the seats and crossed her legs, "had I done that, they wouldn't have stopped. By showing them I'm not to be messed with, I've scared off a majority of the fools who'd try to flirt with me. Now only those who either get off to that, or think they can 'fix' me will come trying to bother me," she leaned back. "And I am more than well accustomed to dealing with those kinds of self entitled fools," she smirked a bit,
"Right… well try not to keep doing that, I know that Fukiyosie in the class you'll be going to is known for her violent outbursts. But she doesn't tend to actually break people's limbs okay?" Yomikawa hung the phone back up and shut the door. "Now then, on that topic, while you're here, I assume you won't be going by Othinus will you?" she asked.
"Of course not, I don't need to be painting a target on my human's back, so I've decided to go by a name I've not heard in a long… long time." A small sad smile formed on Othinus's face, "Wothnaz, Wothnaz Borrson, I assume that will be fine?" She glanced over to Yomikawa, gazing at her through her eyepatch, to gauge the woman's reaction.
Yomikawa held her pencil against her chin as she held a clipboard, "Wothnaz… funny I recall hearing that thats currently the oldest version of the god Odin's name. And Borrson… son of Borr? Does that mean you were…" she began and trailed off again as she looked at Othinus.
Chuckling, the former god smiled, "from time to time yes, although I can no longer do that so freely anymore. However, what you see now is my original face, and as the face that my human saved, I feel like keeping it. Still, I'm shocked you know something so niche considering this city's denial of the supernatural and mystical."
"I'm a teacher, and after your organization popped up using the names of norse figures, I did a bit of research." Yomikawa wrote something down before glancing back up, "right then, now lets go over some ground rules. First, you are not to use your powers as an esper without permission, except in self defense. Second, you are to check in with me at the end of every week and update me on your progress with a list of things you've done. Third, you are not allowed to be outside of view of any surveillance for more than 10 minutes except in specific circumstances. Ones I'm sure you'll figure out when you encounter them," holding out a note of paper she let Othinus take it. "There's way to many things to list outloud, so you'll have to read this, but most of these things minus what I just said will be rolled back after a month. That is, as long as you make sure to follow them till that point," she explained, narrowing her eyes at the former god.
"Understandable, you don't have much reason to trust me yet, even if I turned myself in," Othinus mused. "Your leaders were quite thorough with this, I'm finding it difficult to find any loop holes in the wording, very well done." She held the note back out, "they seem reasonable enough, considering the context of what it's referring."
Yomikawa nodded and took the note back, "I'll send you a digital copy later, oh right!" she rummaged around one of the desks. "Before you go, here," she held out another leaf of paper, "you'll be using the women's dorms for this school. So that, is your registration note, understood?" she asked and Othinus nodded, taking the note. "Good, now you better get to class, Komoe likes to make a production of transfers, and I have my own classes to teach."
Othinus shrugged, "very well mortal, but you don't get to rush me, understood?" she said, making her way to the door.
"Whatever you say," Yomikawa looked up and smiled, "good luck Wothnaz Borrson," she teased as Othinus opened the door.
"Don't need it," she declared, before leaving.
—
"ORDER ORDER!" the judge's voice echoed through the courtroom as he slammed his hammer on the podium.
Slowly, the voices inside the room died down, but the pinging of their phones and the shaking of the world outside refused to settle down. Countless voices chanting for Othinus to be given a second chance, having been moved by her tears and the president's plea. Othinus herself, standing there as she looked to the ground, tears dripping down her face in shock. A feeling building in her chest she had thought she had forgotten, a pain she couldn't ignore anymore.
"Why…" she muttered, "why would you make it so hard for me? Why did you have to ask for my salvation? Humanity isn't this kind… it makes no sense… why…." she muttered confused by what she was hearing. "Why didn't you stay silent? Why did you have to trap me like this?" she asked under her breath, face soaked with tears.
Straightening, the judge gave a sigh, "the jury has made it's decision… and now the verdict must be carried out." Taking a breath, the judge's voice echoed out, "Magic god Othinus, there can be no doubt to your guilt and you have not tried to deny it. However, your cooperation and honesty has reflected well on your actions today, and the voice of the people has spoken." He slammed his hammer down again, "you are hereby sentenced into public service and servitude. For the foreseeable future, you will answer to the Anglican church and work for them in any matter they so require. This includes handling magical threats, rogue magicians, and other dangerous individuals and even political advisory. You played all sides during the incident, so it only makes sense you would work to fix the damage you did as a result."
Slowly, Othinus's heart began to cool, and her face hardened, while the people may have asked for her salvation. That did not mean the judge would allow her to protect her understander, as he was only really concerned with eliminating the threat of magic. So if anything she would be made to put her human in even more danger as an agent of the anglican church. Something she would not allow if she could help it, so she would make sure that judge ate his-
"In addition however, you will be the personal bodyguard of Kamijou Touma first and foremost above all else. As a valuable asset to the Anglican church and the magic side as a whole, it would be beneficial if he were to survive despite being the natural enemy of magic. So, in accordance with your plea, we have decided to agree with your request as it coincides with our own goals. As such, you will enroll in Academy City as a student to remain as close to the Imagine Breaker as possible. By undergoing the power curriculum your magic will be sealed and we will no longer need to fear it as a threat. Do you understand?" he asked, his eyes narrowing as Othinus found herself stunned once more.
Slowly raising her head, she straightened out, puffing her chest out in pride as she wiped the tears off her face. It was a miracle, something she never thought she'd ever have, and yet here it was being handed to her. For once in Othinus's life, she had been listened to, her cry had been answered, and the world had accepted her. Maybe it was tenuous, maybe it'd snap at a moment's notice, but for this one small shining moment, she had been truly accepted.
"Completely… absolutely… and completely," her words came out, without a hint of hesitation as she met the judge's eyes. A feeling of immense gratitude budding within her as she realized she would finally have a chance to right one of her countless wrongs.
And for once… she was satisfied.