Chapter 5: Interlude

August 15, 2018 – Wednesday

Wayne Manor, Gotham

Dawn and Sif sat across from Buffy and Bruce in the welcoming living room of Wayne Manor. Dawn took a deep breath, her heart filled with anticipation as she prepared to share the remarkable tale of their journey in New Mexico. Her voice carried a sense of wonder, captivating the attention of her listeners.

"It all began when I crossed paths with Thor," Dawn started, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "He was banished from Asgard by his father, Odin, and sent to Earth as a mortal, along with his enchanted hammer, Mjolnir."

Buffy leaned forward; her gaze fixed on Dawn. "Why was the hammer sent to Earth?"

Dawn continued, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. "Thor had to prove his worthiness. Only those deemed worthy can lift Mjolnir."

Bruce, driven by curiosity, interjected, his scientific mind intrigued. "Tell us, Dawn, what did you witness? Did you see Thor's extraordinary abilities?"

Dawn nodded, memories flooding back with vivid clarity. "Absolutely! Thor possessed incredible strength, agility, and wielded the power of lightning."

Buffy couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. "And what part did you play in all of this, Dawn? How did you become involved?"

A smile played at the corners of Dawn's lips as she recounted her role in the events. "As you know, I was in New Mexico, visiting Jane Foster's team, who were studying astronomical phenomena. It was during my time there that the Bifrost opened, and Thor was deposited on Earth. Over the following days, we discovered the reason behind Thor's arrival."

Sif took over, her voice steady and commanding. "During that time, Thor learned from his brother Loki that their father, Odin, had perished. It was a ruse orchestrated by Loki, who intended to seize the throne of Asgard and destroy Jotunheim."

Dawn interjected; her voice filled with determination. "Loki dispatched the Asgardian Destroyer to eliminate Thor and prevent him from returning to Asgard. In order to protect innocent lives, Thor made a selfless sacrifice, allowing the Destroyer to kill him. This act of bravery proved Thor's worthiness, and Mjolnir restored his powers. Resurrected, he harnessed the power of lightning to energize the cannon, while I used it to obliterate the Destroyer."

Sif continued; her tone grave yet resolute. "Together with Thor and the Warriors Three, we returned to Asgard to confront Loki. Upon our arrival, we discovered Heimdall gravely injured. Thor entrusted me, along with Hogun, Fandral, and Volstagg, to take Heimdall to the healers. Meanwhile, Thor asked Lysa to stay and guard the Bifrost."

Dawn interjected once again; her voice filled with the weight of responsibility. "As you know Nightwing gives me enhanced vision, I spotted Thor plummeting from the sky. Without hesitation, I took flight, catching him just before he hit the ground. He warned me that Loki intended to use the Bifrost to destroy Jotunheim. Together, we raced back to the observatory, where I used the cannon to propel Loki into the depths of space."

Bruce, absorbing the tale, raised a pertinent question. "That brings us to Asgard, but how did you become an Asgardian?"

Sif, with a mix of pride and gratitude, answered Bruce's query. "As you may know, the cannon, that Skjolder creates on her chest when it wraps her in its armor, draws upon life energy for power. Its discharge nearly claimed Lysa's life. She clung to life because of the Key. Thor rushed her to the healers, and with our combined persuasion, along with the fact that Dawn already possessed two Asgardian artifacts—the Key and Skjolder—we convinced Odin to save Lysa. Using my DNA, the healers were able to alter Dawn's genetic makeup, transforming her into an Asgardian and my daughter. That is why I call her Lysa, with her transformation into an Asgardian, I gave her an Asgardian name. In our tongue Lysa means Dawn."

Bruce and Buffy exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of surprise and curiosity. The revelation how Dawn had become an Asgardian left them momentarily speechless.

After a brief pause, Bruce spoke, his voice filled with scientific intrigue. "Transforming your DNA to become Asgardian... That's an extraordinary development, Dawn. It raises countless questions about the nature of Asgardian physiology and the extent of your newfound abilities."

Buffy, ever the protective sister, reached out and gently clasped Dawn's hand. Concern laced her voice as she spoke. "Dawn, this is a lot to take in. Are you okay? Do you feel any different?"

Dawn smiled warmly, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of excitement and reassurance. "I'm actually doing great, Buffy. Becoming Asgardian hasn't changed who I am at the core. It's more like an expansion of my capabilities and a connection to a rich heritage. I feel stronger, more attuned to the world around me."

Bruce's curiosity couldn't be contained any longer. "Have you noticed any new abilities or changes in your powers since the transformation?"

Dawn nodded, a hint of enthusiasm coloring her words. "Yes, definitely. My senses have sharpened, and I feel a heightened connection to natural forces, particularly in relation to lightning and energy. There's also a resilience and endurance that I didn't possess before. It's like unlocking a part of myself that was always there, waiting to be awakened. I'm almost certain that I'm equivalent of a Slayer now in terms of powers."

Buffy leaned forward; her voice filled with concern. "But what does this mean for you, Dawn? Are there any risks or challenges you'll have to face as an Asgardian?"

Dawn's expression turned determined, her eyes meeting Buffy's gaze. "There could be. But nothing I haven't handled before as Nightwing at yours and Bruce's side. That said I won't deny that there might be additional challenges along the way, but with the support of Sif and Thor I believe I can navigate them. Being Asgardian opens up a world of possibilities, and I'm determined to use my newfound abilities alongside the ones I had as Nightwing to continue to protect people."

Bruce, his analytical mind in motion, interjected once more. "We'll need to conduct further tests and analysis to fully understand the extent of your transformation, Dawn. It's an incredible opportunity for scientific exploration."

Buffy nodded, a mix of apprehension and pride evident in her expression. "Just promise me you'll be careful, Dawn."

Dawn squeezed Buffy's hand reassuringly. "I promise, Buffy. I'll tread cautiously and embrace this new chapter in my life with vigilance and responsibility. And remember, I'll always have you and Bruce by my side."

November 22, 2018 – Thursday

Wayne Manor, Gotham

Dawn took a deep breath, her excitement bubbling over as she turned to face Buffy and Bruce. With a grin on her face, she gestured toward the figure standing beside her.

"Buffy, Bruce, I'd like you to meet Thor," Dawn said, her voice filled with pride and affection. "Thor, these are two of the most important people in my life—my sister Buffy and my brother-in-law and friend Bruce."

Thor extended a hand toward Buffy and Bruce, a warm smile lighting up his face. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you both. Lysa has spoken so highly of you."

Buffy exchanged a surprised glance with Bruce before returning Thor's handshake. She couldn't help but notice the strong presence and undeniable charm emanating from him.

"Nice to meet you, Thor," Buffy said, her curiosity piqued. "So, you're the one who's captured Dawn's heart?"

Thor chuckled warmly, his eyes never leaving Dawn's face. "Indeed, I am honored to have captured the heart of such a remarkable woman. Lysa brings light into my life, and I cherish every moment with her."

Bruce, always observant, studied Thor for a moment before extending his hand as well. "Good to meet you, Thor. I hope you understand that we have a duty to protect Dawn and ensure her safety. We care about her deeply."

Thor's grip tightened on Bruce's hand; his expression sincere. "I understand your concern, Bruce, and I share your commitment to Dawn's safety and well-being. I would never do anything to jeopardize her. My intentions are genuine, and I'm dedicated to making her happy."

Dawn watched the exchange with a mix of relief and anticipation. She knew that introducing Thor to Buffy and Bruce was an important step in solidifying their acceptance of their relationship.

"I know this might come as a surprise, but Thor and I have found something special together," Dawn said, her voice filled with certainty. "He's been my rock through all the recent events, and I couldn't be happier with him by my side."

Buffy's gaze softened as she looked at Dawn, recognizing the sincerity in her sister's eyes. She turned to Thor, offering a small smile. "Dawn's happiness means everything to me. I trust that you'll take care of her, Thor."

Thor nodded earnestly. "I give you my word, Buffy. Dawn's happiness and well-being are my utmost priority."

Bruce, though still cautious, couldn't ignore the genuine connection he witnessed between Dawn and Thor. "Just make sure you treat her right, Thor. She deserves nothing less."

Thor's smile grew wider, his blue eyes twinkling with affection. "I will cherish and protect her with all that I have, Bruce. She means everything to me."

With introductions made and concerns addressed, the group settled into a conversation, getting to know Thor better and sharing stories of their recent adventures. Dawn beamed with joy, grateful to have her loved ones accepting the love she had found in Thor.

June 24, 2019 – Monday

Asgard

Under the radiant skies of Asgard, bathed in the ethereal glow of the golden realm, Thor and Dawn prepared to unite their lives in a magnificent Asgardian wedding. The halls of the grand palace were adorned with resplendent decorations, shimmering with elegance and joy. Among the esteemed guests were Buffy, Bruce and their children 4-year-old children Martha and Rachel, who had traveled from Earth to share in this momentous occasion.

Dawn, adorned in a breathtaking Asgardian bridal gown, radiated beauty and grace as she walked down the aisle, her heart filled with love and anticipation. Buffy stood by her side, her eyes shining with pride and happiness for her beloved sister.

At the end of the aisle stood Thor, the embodiment of strength and nobility. His eyes glistened with adoration as he beheld his bride, knowing that their love was about to be sealed in a sacred bond.

The Asgardian priest, with a voice that echoed with ancient wisdom, began the solemn ceremony, his words carrying the weight of tradition and reverence. He spoke of love, commitment, and the eternal union of two souls destined to walk the realms together.

Buffy and Bruce, standing as witnesses to this union, exchanged a warm glance, their hearts overflowing with joy for Dawn and Thor. With tears of happiness in their eyes, they affirmed their support and blessings for this union, knowing that their sister had found a love that transcended worlds.

As the ceremony progressed, Thor and Dawn exchanged heartfelt vows, their words filled with promises of love, loyalty, and shared adventures across the cosmos. Their voices carried the echoes of their journey, the trials they had faced together, and the unbreakable bond that had formed between them.

With the sacred vows spoken, the priest proclaimed them husband and wife, sealing their union with the blessings of the Asgardian gods. The hall erupted in applause and jubilation, as the realm itself seemed to rejoice in their love.

Buffy and Bruce, moved by the profoundness of the moment, approached the newlyweds with tears of joy in their eyes. They enveloped Dawn in a warm embrace, sharing words of love and congratulations. Bruce clasped Thor's shoulder, conveying his trust and faith in the man who had captured his sister-in-law's heart.

Together, the four of them led the procession to the grand banquet hall, where Asgardian delicacies were served, and merriment filled the air. The tables overflowed with delectable feasts, and the room resounded with laughter and music, a testament to the celebration of love and unity.

Buffy and Bruce, alongside their newfound Asgardian family, raised their glasses in a heartfelt toast, honoring the eternal bond of Thor and Dawn. They spoke of the strength of family, the power of love, and the unbreakable ties that connected them across realms.

As the night continued, they danced and reveled in the joyous festivities, their hearts filled with love and gratitude for the bond they shared. The realm of Asgard, with its celestial beauty, became a backdrop to the celebration of not only Thor and Dawn's union but also the unbreakable connection between family and the unyielding strength of love.

In that moment, as Buffy and Bruce witnessed the radiant happiness of their sister and her newfound husband, they knew that their lives had been forever enriched by this extraordinary Asgardian wedding.