Today has been a good day. Not only did I enjoy Deadpool and Wolverine, but I was able to find the wedding band for my wife-to-be! I hope today was good for all my followers. If it has not then I hope chapter 5 will cheer you up.
Merendinoemiliano: Glad you enjoyed the fight
Battlefield: Then boy will you enjoy the plan I have for him ?
Lycans: And more changes have been added to this chapter my friend.
Zoom 2. 0: That's correct. My original plot for Sif was fun but I'm glad of the changes I made for her in the redux.
Chapter 5
Reunions
Classes had been canceled to allow all of Valhalla to watch the duel and it became the chief topic of the next day. Those who witnessed it with their own eyes had retold the fight over and over to friends and family. The fight wasn't the only topic going around the kingdom but the reason for why it had happened.
"Is it true? Did Thor really fight the Einherjar for the Allfather's bodyguard?"
"My friend told me. I am surprised the Valkyrie without a boyfriend had someone stand up for her like that."
"I wish Thor would do that for me! I'd love to have the God of Thunder protect me!"
"He's only been here a few days and he's already shown to be a good man. Protecting a lady and teaching that bully a lesson."
"I hope that Einherjar has learned his lesson."
After the duel, Cadmus was dragged off to the Freya hospital with downcast eyes and slump shoulders and after being released locked up in his room in Valhalla Hall only coming out to get food whilst ignoring the taunts about his embarrassing defeat at Thor's hand. Speaking of Thor, although his wounds were grievous he nevertheless was told by Lady Eir he must postpone any physical activities like crafting, P.E, and magic training until he was fully healed. Skadi insisted Thor can still learn to hunt because even hunts can work with one arm as her father had done after losing his right one. Of course the young God protested saying he could continue magic training with one arm to which Rossweisse scolded for saying he must have a week's rest of recovery before continuing.
"Rossweisse is right, Thor, if you try training in the condition you are in now you'll reopen your wound. While it is possible to keep practicing you should wait to have the use of both hands. It's best if you wait until you fully recover." Vetr advised the God of Thunder during lunch break, a book about the history of the Nine Realms that Vetr rented from the academy library sat open on the table they ate at.
The chapter Thor was reading about was tragic but an incredible piece of history humanity knew nothing about; the War of the Dwarves and Elves which had happened three-thousand years ago. During that time Alfheim was ruled by a benevolent Queen named Alva who was gifted with a crown of leaves and Mithril by Dwarven smiths. Unfortunately, the Dwarven King of that time, Tuddak, was petty and demanded that no Mithril be used in the forging of any gift to Elf, God, and Jotun. So when word reached about the Mithril crown he executed the blacksmiths who created it and demanded the crown back to which Alva refused. Filled with anger, Tuddak personally went to Alfheim and assassinated Alva thus leading to the war were thousands of Elves and Dwarves died until peace was made by Odin and the God of Justice, Tyr. It was quite a story to learn and there were many more within this book like the The Jouten Empire, the Founders of Asgard, the Aesir-Vanir War, the Creation of the Nine Realms, and so much more.
"Hmph!" Thor grumbled with a pout.
"Now, Thor, don't be like that." Vetr tutted, "What Cadmus did was bold and must be given credit for wounding you. Besides, you can use this time to train your mind or explore the downtown area of Asgard."
Thor gave a curious look at Vetr. He had heard the Downtown area mentioned a lot by the other students and said to be somewhere to visit, especially at night. Exploring Downtown hadn't been an idea of his until Sigrun suggested it, all he really planned on doing was reading up on magic to expand his knowledge on how it works. Not to mention he only knew about the Palace and Valhalla, Downtown sounded like a fun place. Every night in the Palace he would look out windows or stand on balconies looking at the lights illuminating Downtown Asgard. He was too far to hear noises but knew it must be loud with laughter and music. To go and experience it would be a memory he would never forget.
Suddenly the doors to the lunchroom burst open and in came a guard, he paused then marched over to Sigrun and something in her ear causing the Valkyrie in training's brow to furrow. She nodded, stood up, and followed the guard out of the silent room.
"Where is she going?" Asked Thor as the talking recommenced.
"A mission." The Giant answered, a grin stretching across his face at the realization forming on Thor's face, "You thought all we did was dwell in Asgard? There's always trouble brewing within the Nine Realms and it's up to the Valkyries and Gods, to protect against that evil. Most likely there are Giants causing trouble in Midgard or Jotunheim, or perhaps even Vanahiem. Will probably know when she comes back."
Images flashed through Thor's head as he began imagining himself fighting Giants in Jotunheim or traveling the land of the Elves with Vetr and Rossweisse. That a dream he hoped would come true. His musing was interrupted by the ring of the bell ending lunch and return to class. His third day to Valhalla would allow him to experience his full schedule.
Later…
Today in History class Thor learned about his great-grandfather, Buri, leading the Aesir, which was a small tribe in the ancient days, in a great escape from the Jotun Empire over mountains, through dense forests, and freeing blizzards until finding land north outside of the Jotun Empire's reach which Buri called Asgard. Soon Buri married and had a son named Bor who married a Giantess run away among the Aesir named Bestla who gave birth to Vili, Vee, and Odin. The three young prince's gathered and trained the Aesir and led their people in the Aesir-Jotun thus leading to the collapse of the Jotun Empire and a time of peace before the Aesir-Vanir war started centuries later. What other history did the Vanir God know, what more lore did the Gods know that humanity did not? Each day would bring a new discovery for the young Aesir prince.
The bell rang and Thor went to his next class, which would be the last class for today, that he had not been able to attend due to the duel; Sex Education with Sif. A Goddess associated with Earth but held no special title like he and Odin did. A Goddess who also was his wife.
Discomfort filled Thor as he made his way towards the room she was teaching in. How would his first interaction with her go? No doubt she will be glad of his return but would she try getting back together with him? Even if she was his wife once such an act was, in his opinion, out of the question because he was a boy nineteen years of age and she must be well over a thousand years old. He hoped to some higher being that Gods had morals and didn't go after teenagers.
Ascending the stairs to where the sex education was he stopped at the corner leading to the class and swallowed the lump forming his throat at all the girls who were entering the room. He didn't want to admit it but this may be the class he would struggle the most with. Not just because it was run by his former wife but so many girls were in there, girls he was certain would try having sex with him. When he was a teenager being trained to be the ultimate weapon for the Church the topic of sex and love had been a subject nobody made the time to teach him, save one nun but even that was minimal. He learned the basics of what love was and what sex was but what he didn't know was how it worked but that would change today under the tutelage of Sif.
As soon as he stepped through the room all hell broke loose.
"Look! It's Thor!"
Gasps and screams filled the room like an army preparing for a charge and charge they would if not for Thor stepping out of the room and slamming the door in their faces. He saw the knob turn to be pulled open but Thor's grip was unmatched even against an army of girls who wanted to get in his pants. Angry, annoyed, and pleading, expressions looked through the glass window on the door wanting to touch or speak with the God of Thunder.
"Is there a problem?"
Thor turned to the speaker to find a woman in her mid-twenties with long blonde hair tied in a ponytail ending at her waist, a half-crown braid at the back of her head, and deep blue like his own. The white tank top and shorts seemed more appropriate for a day on the town rather than teaching students. Either she was a young teacher or wanted to try connecting with the students more since so many wore casual outfits like she did. The more he stared the more he realized she was an inch taller than him and, due to her outfit, was very curvy and toned by the muscle visible on her arms and legs. He couldn't help admitting that she was very pretty.
No, she was more than pretty, beautiful.
Breathtaking.
The blonde beauty must be who he was fearing to meet today.
"Sif."
A smile spread across her face causing Thor's grip to slacken on the door to allow the horde of girls to hurl it open and reach out to grab him. They would have to if not for Sif clearing her throat making the stricken girls freeze as if they had looked into Medusa's eyes or get hit by the winds of Nifelheim. With a sharp glare the blonde Goddess sent her students scuttling back into the classroom allowing herself and Thor to enter. Sif swept her gaze around the classroom making sure every one of her students of both sexes were seated before addressing the class in a calm but commanding tone.
"I am very disappointed in you girls. Our newest student to the class and you try to be physical with him. You all should be ashamed of your behavior because I certainly am. If I catch you doing this again I will do more than give you a warning. Now let us welcome the Son of Odin-"
"Don't you mean your fiance?" Asked a student.
Sif ignored the question, "Now let us welcome the Son of Odin, Thor. Our Prince has returned."
A short applause commenced for the young Aesir prince before subsiding to allow Sif to speak again, "Thor, you can take your seat next to Rota."
Rota had shoulder length green hair and matching green eyes full of pure happiness. When Thor sat next to her she leaned over and said, "It's so good to meet you, your grace. I've seen you around school but never got the time to talk to you."
Thor smiled, finally someone who wasn't hype fixate on having his attention, "Pleased to meet you, Rota."
"Did you really fight Cadmus because he bullied Rossweisse?"
Before he could answer Sif spoke, "Alright class. I know we have a test coming up."
Thor paled, "Uh oh."
"But due to Thor being new we will be going over old courses."
Thor frowned, he couldn't let these people redo old work because of him. Raising his good arm he said, "Ms. Sif, my wounds from the duel won't let me do any physical activities until I'm fully healed so I can stay after class to catch up with the class."
With one last glance around the room the Goddess started her lecture on today's education about sex all while keeping a close eye on Thor who listened and took notes when necessary. At least he was willing to learn unlike other kids who just sat there thinking about making love to the opposite gender. Soon the bell rang and off her students went to their last class for the day. When only Thor remained she closed and locked the door before gesturing him to her desk which he obeyed. When he had Sif hugged him tightly unintentionally burying his face into her ample breasts.
"I…I thought you were lost forever." She whispered, holding back the tears that threatened to flow, "I thought I lost you forever. I…I felt so much pain when we couldn't find you. All of the realms mourn your death but…somehow you came back to us. To…to me. Oh, Thor."
Thor did not know how to answer the woman who was not his wife but fiancee meaning she was going to be his wife. Thor was impressed Sif was able to keep her emotions in check since this was the first time speaking to him in what must have been centuries if not eons or millennia. Realizing his hands were shaking he stopped it and raised them to hug her and rub her back.
At last the blonde beauty released him and smiled, "Let's get you caught up to the current lesson."
Catching up to the current lesson was an understatement for Thor was already halfway there. His focused determination prompted Sif to say he always was a hard worker in physical and mental study but preferring physical due to the unmatched strength he possessed. Sif wasn't wrong, even as a weapon for the Church he trained nonstop, even in the room he lived in, wishing someday to escape and at last he had but how did he do it again? He had run down a hall through a door and then…and then he found himself in Asgard. Yes, he escaped to Asgard thanks to his unmatched strength.
"So.." Said Thor after finishing a lesson about the items required for safe sex, "Do you have any titles? I mean…you are a Goddess so you must have some."
One blonde eyebrow lifted, "But of course I do. I am the Goddess of Fertility, family, wedlock and other titles. You, Odin, and the other Gods of Asgard and Vanaheim are the same. You are mostly known for thunder but you also are associated with lightning, storms, sacred groves, and trees, strength, protector of humanity, hallowing, and fertility."
"Hence why you chose to teach sex education?"
"That's right but I am surprised you were put in my class."
"Vili and Rossweisse worked on my schedule and put me here. I assumed it was so that we could meet again." It wasn't a total lie but he didn't want her to know he knew little about sex.
"I'm certain that was their plan. We were engaged after all."
Thor couldn't keep the surprise from his tone, "W-were we now? I thought we were already married?"
One blonde brow arched as she peered at Thor quizzically, "You do not remember? We were going to get married but Surtr prevented that."
Thor bit his lip and looked away unsure if he should tell her about his time with the Church. Odin, Freyr, and Rossweisse knew but should the rest of Asgard know? Would they still accept him?
"Thor?" Sif leaned closer, "What are you hiding? Whatever it is, you can tell me. You always told me everything."
"I did…" Said Thor blowing out his breath, "But…we just met again and…and I can't tell you. Not yet."
Sif nodded, "I understand. When you are ready I will be here to listen." She paused then said, "When I lost you I grieved for many years but made peace with it. But seeing you again has rekindled the fear of losing you once more."
"As well as love…?" The young God asked.
"Of course it does," Then she cupped his face and pressed her forehead against his, "Thor, you will always be my beloved. I will always love you but I know it can never happen. I am older than I look and you are a teenager. Our relationship now is not as lovers but as friends. Teacher and student."
Silently Thor thanked whatever higher being there was beyond a God that Sif understood pursuing him was impossible.
After letting go Sif asked how Thor felt about Valhalla leading the Aesir prince to go into a long excited explanation of how he loved not just the school but the rest of Asgard and the people he has met. When mentioning Rossweisse training him in magic the blonde beauty smiled, "Ah, Rossweisse. I hear that duel against Cadmus was because you stood up to his bullying of her. You always were a defender even for those who were stronger than you which was one of the many reasons I fell in love with you. The Allfather was right to have her train you in magic. She was the best student Valhalla ever had. Her hard work was why she was able to graduate so early and join the Valkyrie Corps at the age of fifteen."
Thor sat up right, "No."
"Oh yes." Said Sif, "To join the Valkyrie corps you must be in your final semester of Valhalla and eighteen years of age but being related to a famous Valkyrie as well as a master of spells and even inventing her own seal made Brynhildr want her joining them sooner than later. Of course she was only with them for six months before the Allfather chose her as his bodyguard."
"So that's why she's called the strongest Valkyrie youth."
"Is she?" Said Sif amusingly, "Is she now? I have not heard that title used for her. It is much more appropriate than having no boyfriend. Such a cruel and wicked nickname for anyone but enough chit chat, let me go over my students work then I will take you back to the palace."
An hour of overlooking homework had allowed Thor to do one more lesson before Sif teleported them to the front steps of the palace. They were halfway up before screams of terror reached their ears.
"Look out he's loose!"
"Get out of the way or he'll run you down!"
"Somebody stop him!"
Thor's brow knitted, was someone or something making a commotion in the Palace! Fearing for anyone getting hurt, Thor rushed up the stairs to confront the problem. When reaching the top he saw something large and white collide with him, the force of the impact was so great it sent him flying past Sif to the foot of the stairs. The God of Thunder groaned as he rose into a sitting position, whatever hit him felt like a car breaking at the last minute. Looking up he saw that what had hit him was a white goat the size of the horse with chipped and scarred from years of combat charging down the stairs toward him. Shock filled him at seeing the great creature and could do nothing but stare into its large golden eyes that stared right back at him.
Then, like a bolt of lightning striking a tree, Thor recognized the animal as one of the goats pulling his chariot but which one was it Tanngrisnir or Tanngnjostr? All of a sudden he remembered riding a chariot pulled by one goat towards a great ball of fire that, when leaping at him, shot a blast of flame that consumed both goat and chariot. He vowed the goat -no- he vowed Tanngnjostr, yes that was his name, Tanngnjostr, would not die in vain and he had not.
Unafraid, Thor lifted a hand toward the animal and said, "Tanngrisnir."
The goat slowed to a walk until its nostril touched the hand as hot air passed over it. The horned creature sniffed the hand before nuzzling against Thor, releasing sounds of joy.
"Tanngrisnir, how did you get out of your stable?" Sif asked, surely Hlin didn't let him out on purpose?
"That would be my fault."
The blonde and red head looked back to see a tall man with a full head and face of white-golden hair and golden eyes walk down the stairs with Odin and Rossweisse following behind. He wore a robe similar to Odin's but it was pure white with gold lining and a gold rune symbol on each side. If he was wearing a white suit he'd look like one of those rich people of Midgard.
"I was going to feed him when he suddenly smelt something and dashed out before anybody could stop him. I assume you are the cause of that eh brother?"
Thor blinked, did he call him brother? This must be one of Odin's other sons but which one? He was very handsome so he might be Baldur for he was said to be the fairest of the Gods and hair that bright would indicate he is the God of Light. He had questions but such things couldn't happen with the large goat still nuzzling him.
"Tanngrisnir, off!" He commanded and the goat obeyed without question. Now free from the goat and letting Baldur see him, the God of Light beamed with pride and joy before pulling Thor to his feet.
"I knew you'd cheat death, brother!"
"It's…ugh…nice to meet you too, Baldur." Thor grunted.
The gold eyed man blinked then laughed, "I see. You think I'm Baldur due to my looks? Hahah! Nah I'm Odin's youngest son, or I was until you came back as a teenager. Hahah! I am your second older brother, Vidar!"
Despite the fear of getting his back snapped Thor couldn't hide his excitement at knowing this man was Vidar the the God of Vengeance and, by what the books the Church had of Norse Myth, the second son Odin had with a Giantess. That, however, left Thor confused for how could he and Vidar, both conceived by Giantesses, be the younger brothers while Baldur, God of Light, was the oldest? Two possibilities came to mind; either Frigg was the mother of all three boys or Odin had an affair leading to the Queen of Asgard divorcing and leaving Asgard taking Baldur with her? Did that explain why he didn't see either of them in Asgard? Odin was said to be a cunning man but had that cunningness led to a failed marriage?
Squirming out of Vidar's grasp he stared at Odin for a long moment before saying in a dark tone, "Where is Frigg and Baldur?"
Odin, Vidar, Sif, and Rossweisse exchanged looks with one another, the question leaving everyone uncomfortable, leading Thor to the conclusion that maybe his second theory was correct and if that was the case…
"Lord Thor," Said Rossweisse, coming up beside him, "I believe it's time we tell you what happened."
"But not here." Sif interjected before the Valkyrie could say more, "Somewhere Mote privately. If we anger our prince he should at least have a place to vent it away from the people."
It was agreed and the five God's relocated to an outdoor pavilion with a garden behind the palace with food and drinks served. Tanngrisnir wanted to follow his master but Thor insisted he go back to the stables, promising to visit him afterwards. Despite finally meeting one of his brothers Thor could sense a feeling of gloom hung over the group with nobody wanting to explain what happened to Baldur and Frigg.
At last Rossweisse broke the silence, "When you sacrificed yourself to stop Surtr, Asgard fell into disarray. The Dwarves were begged by the Allmother to build statues of the Gods and Goddesses who fell in the attack, most of course being in honor of you along with a stadium named after you. Unfortunately, the price the Dwarves demanded was so great it drained Asgard of all its money, which even that wasn't enough leaving Asgard in debt to Nidavillir who still waited for the rest of the payment. Njord went to the Vanir council but they refused to help pay saying they would not squander their remaining riches on statues. Dissatisfied Asgard couldn't pay anymore, Nidavellir broke its alliance with us. Only the Dwarves of Midgard come to Asgard to trade but they are few in numbers."
"And the Queen? What became of Frigg?"
"Frigg?" Vidar repeated, "You must be playing a joke on us, brother, because only father ever called mother Frigg. Why would you call her by her nickname?"
"Because that is her name isn't it?"
"No." Said Vidar slowly, "Our mother is Freya."
Thor felt himself reel back in shock. Freya, the Queen of the Valkyries, was their mother!? Odin was married to Freya not Frigg and his mother was a Giantess named Jord. What had humanity written to make Frigg be Odin's wife when it was really Freyr's brother?
"I think an explanation is needed on both sides." Odin said seriously,
"What explanation?" Vidar asked.
"One that you both are sworn to secrecy. Azazel, Rossweisse and Freyr are the only ones to know of this but let us first correct Thor." The old God said before clearing his throat, "Frigg was never a real Goddess, Thor. As Vidar says; Frigg was a nickname I would always call Freya. My marriage to Freya was one of the reasons for ending the Aesir-Vanir War. As a sign that Aesir and Vanir can coexist together in harmony. Your mother, your real mother, was the Giantess Jord, who died giving birth to you. Freya raised you and Vidar with Baldur, never judging you one bit. She was a great warrior and an even better mother yet that motherly love was what led Asgard to where we are now."
"What happened to her?"
Vidar's shoulders slumped, "She went into exile. She was in such grief over your death she did not care if the last penny in Asgard was spent to commemorate you. Only after hearing the debt she put Asgard in, Vanaheim refusing to help, and Nidavillir cutting ties with us, she declared exile for herself. We begged her not to leave but she would not listen and, with Baldur, left for parts unknown. None of us have seen them since."
Thor slumped in his chair finding it difficult learning Freya of all people had irrationally led Asgard into debt to Nidavillir. His death had affected her deeply but to think it would lead to this was inconceivable. For one called the Allmother she did not use that wisdom well after his death. Part of him was disappointed in her actions but another part was understanding of her actions. Anyone would do reckless things after losing a loved one, especially if it was for their child.
"But now that I'm back she can return, can't she?"
Odin sighed, "I wish it were so, boy. However, even my ravens have not been able to find her. For a God of Knowledge, her use of Vanir magic far surpasses mime making it easy for her to elude me. I still have Huginn and Muninn scouring the Nine realms for any sign of them."
"Then let's go find them!" Said Thor rising to his feet, "If we can find them we may be able to convince them to return!"
The gathered Gods exchanged looks before Vidar said gloomy, "Thor, it's not as simple as you make it sound. If we were to go looking for our mother it may take months if not years before we discover her. Not to mention the debt to Nidavillir isn't the only problem Asgard is facing. The Elves of Alfheim are protesting the removal of Freyr as there leader and want a council of Elves to rule there land, then there are the endless problems of the Giants in Jotunheim and Midgard, and now we have word that hundreds of Exorcists are covertly showing up in Scandinavia everyday."
Thor's fingers clenched into fists, warriors from the Church were in Norse territory? No doubt they were in search of him but they would never find him so long as he stayed in Asgard but he couldn't let himself be cooped up in the home of the Aesir. Not when he wanted to see the other realms and more importantly, find his mother and stop the Giants. Plus he was not the property of the Church and should they say otherwise…well they would meet Jarnborn and Jarnsaxa.
"Luckily our new allies are helping us slowly refill our coffers." Vidar reassured.
"You mean the Fallen Angels?" Sif asked.
Vidar nodded, "Grigori, the organization created by him and the Fallen Angels who fell with him, have gained great sums of money through the use of the entertainment industry. Mostly from gaming, gambling, and sports. They have agreed to a twenty-five percent cut of the profits they make. However, that won't be enough to cover the rest of the debt to Nidavillir."
"If we get into the entertainment industry as well we will be one step closer to paying the Dwarves." Sif reassured before addressing Odin, "Now, what is your explanation, Allfather? What secret do you wish your son and I swear not to tell?"
When the Allfather explained the situation about finding Thor, Vidar couldn't help himself from breaking the cut in his hand, "Those bastards. Turning my brother into a weapon to use against their foes is unforgivable! How could they have gotten their hands on you?"
"I don't know. What's more, I don't remember meeting any of you. I only know any of you from the lore books the Church made me read. That's why I thought Frigg was Odin's wife."
Vidar grumbled, his usual cheerful attitude soured by this revelation, "Humanity has a tendency to misinterpret pantheons. What else does the Biblical Faction want to steal from us!?"
"Calm yourself, Vidar." Sif said soothingly, "Yes we have lost much through the centuries but they have not gotten the God of Thunder and even if by some chance he fell into the hands of the Devils, he could not join them. Gods are unaffected by their Evil Piece system. Perhaps Thor does not remember due to memory loss."
"But how does that explain his de-aging and long absence from us?"
"Not every answer can be given to us at once, Vidar." Odin said, "Day by day we may uncover more clues to how Thor came back. For now let us be thankful the Fates delivered him back to us. As for the Biblical Faction, Sif or I will deal with them should any problem occur. She is still a skilled diplomat."
Vidar sighed, "You're right, Sif, and I am sorry for my outburst. It's just so frustrating to see how much we have lost in the centuries."
"But that may change right?" Thor asked looking around the table, "I have returned haven't I? Was it not my death that caused all of this? What if my return heralds Asgard rising to the power it once was and the uniting of the Nine Realms?"
A gentle breeze swept through the pavilion as Odin stared at his son. Was the second coming of the God of Thunder a sign that shows the Norse Realm bouncing back from the troubles they were facing? Thor was their strongest warrior and had done so much for them before his death. Might he not possibly do so again? He looked to his fellow Gods to see not one frown on any face but rather hope, in Sif's face, determination. It was like he told Rossweisse when leaving the hospital named for his wife; Thor's return would bring hope to the people and it was showing right now.
"You are absolutely right, Thor." He said after a long silence, "Perhaps you will lead Asgard out of the ashes Surtr's flames cast upon us into a new era."
"I can and I will!" Thor nearly shouted, excitement flowing through his veins at the prosper of doing good for Asgard. For all the realms.
Vidar exchanged smiles with Sif, there was the man they knew all those centuries ago.
"Not so far," Rossweisse said, "You still need to fully heal and study at Valhalla before going out to the other realms. I'm not going to let you fight any foes with one arm. You also need to catch up with the rest of Valhalla in homework. Knowledge is just as important as strength."
Seeing the Gods silently agreeing to the Valkyrie's words, Thor decided to go to his room to focus on healing and resuming homework. He waved farewell to his brother and Sif saying he was glad to have met them. When he was out of sight Vidar said, "Do the rest of you find this strange?"
"Yeah." The Goddess of Wedlock answered, still staring at where Thor sat, "My fiance gives his life to protect Asgard and millennia later he returns as a boy with a memory as scrambled as eggs. It doesn't feel right."
Odin nodded, "Indeed it doesn't. However, I sense the Fates have a plan for him. We all saw his potential in the duel against the Einherjar and I will tell you this now. That boy will leave a major impact upon not only us but the entire Supernatural world and when he fully awakens his power he will shake the very foundation of what the supernatural world was built upon. For he is the Second Coming of the God of Thunder."
Two days later night
Still needing time to heal, Thor spent the weekend locked in his room going through the lessons required to catch up with the rest of the class. By the time night had fallen upon Asgard on Monday, the young Aesir prince finished a large portion of homework. With luck he will be all caught up by Wednesday. Stifling a yawn he got up and stepped out onto the balcony of his bedroom to take a short break. Looking out onto the city he remembered Vetr saying he should take time to explore the downtown portion of Asgard and, the more he looked at it, the more he felt the tug to go see it.
It is a weeknight and I should keep working but…I could use a break and I am nearly caught up with everything. I'm sure one night out won't make a big difference.
Within minutes, dressed in a black t-shirt, beige pants, and green button shirt with the sleeves rolled up he went downtown and upon arriving found Vetr's words true at the many sights he took in. Thor wished he had a thousand eyes right now to be able to see everything. Everywhere he turned there would be lights on the modern buildings with thousands of Aesir, young and old, bustling through the streets, going to bars, relaxing within the many parks built in it, or walking dogs.
"I see you are enjoying your time out here."
"Vetr!" Thor greeted the Jotun who clapped him on the back gently, remembering his shoulder was still healing.
"All is well?"
"Aside from still healing wounds, yes. I've barely returned to Asgard but I've learned so much. The rise and fall of tyrants and heroes, the legendary weapons wielded by the Aesir, and how magic works."
"Speaking of magic, anything new with Rossweisse?" The Giant asked with a cheeky wink.
Thor shook his head, "She's been doing her bodyguard service to Odin. How is P.E?"
"The Valkyrie Trio miss you a lot." Vetr laughed remembering Alruna whining about being unable to watch Thor exercise. The pink haired girl could be so funny sometimes.
Just then there came a yelp heard in a bar nearby followed by a familiar voice.
"Lord Odin, you shouldn't do such a thing!"
Rossweisse and Odin? What were they doing in a bar? Curious about what was happening, the young God investigated with Vetr in toe and what he saw stupefied him.
There was the Allfather surrounded by many beautiful and busty women in outfits so small they exposed a lot of skin, particularly in the chest. One girl had her skirt flipped up by Odin who was laughing joyously while commenting about how fine her butt looked. Over by the bar he saw Rossweisse was struggling with two trays full of drinks with a flustered and disappointed expression.
"Thor! So good of you to join us!" Odin shouted when spotting the God of Thunder. He raised his glass high while wearing a big goofy grin. "Come drink with your old man and get this workaholic bodyguard of mine to let off some steam!"
But Thor just stood there in silence. His suspicions were correct; not only did Freya leave Asgard in debt but Odin wasn't a loyal husband. He was a drinker and a pervert! His eyes flickered to the silver Valkyrie who looked away in shame. So she knew about this and didn't tell or was ordered not to.
Whatever else Odin was yammering on about was drowned out by the anger Thor directed towards him. It slowly began building up inside him, his hands clenched so tightly they were turning white and then it happened, it so fast nobody had time to blink. There was a clap of thunder and all saw Odin go toppling to the floor, ale spilled everywhere onto his robes. Thor's fist was outstretched with sparks coursing around it. There was the shattering of glasses as Rossweisse came to her king's aid.
"How. Could. You." Each word Thor growled was filled with resentment towards the Allfather. "I thought you were the King of Asgard!? Not… this! Perhaps this was another reason Freya left Asgard. Because you aren't a loyal husband!"
Huffing with anger Thor turned on his heels and marched out, ignoring the calls from Vetr.
Rossweisse looked between the king and his retreating son, unable to choose who to aid. Her choice was made as Odin made eye contact with her. He wasn't ordering her to go after Thor but of her own will. He knew better than anyone that an angry child would need more comfort than a perverted old man. Slowly nodding she turned on her heels in search of the God of Thunder.
"Are you alright, Allfather?" One of the serving girls asked, helping Odin to his feet.
"Yes. It's been a while since I had someone punch me that hard in the gut." The Allfather said as he accepted the rags to dry his robes.
"Your son…he was so fast. All I saw was a flash."
"He was but I saw him coming."
"Then why didn't you dodge?" The maiden asked with confusion, surely if Odin saw Thor attacking he could have easily avoided it.
Odin smiled fondly, "Sometimes you just wanna take a trip down memory lane."
Not far outside the bar the God walked hurriedly in silence through the city, uncaring of where he was going. Just so long as he was far away from Odin.
Odin the Allfather.
Odin the Wise.
Odin the fool!
Odin the perverted!
How could something like this be accepted by the people of Asgard? How could they be ruled by a pervert like him? How could he treat women like that? It was disgusting, embarrassing even to know he was that man's son! Worst still, Rossweisse knew about this and wasn't just insulted by the old fool but treated as a maid instead of a respecital and talented bodyguard!
How could he stoop to groping breasts and lifting skirts too!? Was he always like this or had Freya's departure cause him to act like a pervert? Whatever the reason it made Thor disgusted by Odin even more.
So focused on his anger the young God failed to notice the being in front him until he bumped right into him. Shaking his head he stepped back to see a tall handsome man in a plain white robe standing before him. The stranger's gray hair seemed to defy gravity with the way it floated and something about his yellow eyes seemed off to Thor as if they had an evil look hidden behind the boredom they showed. A yellow ear the same color as his eyes hung from both ears while three blue jewels sat upon his brow. His anger turned to discomfort just standing in front of this guy.
"Sorry." He said.
"I would advise watching where you are walking, boy." Said the stranger in a drawl tone.
Thor frowned at being called boy, this Aesir had very bad manners.
The gray haired man peered at Thor twice before saying, "Hmm. Red hair, blue eyes, scowling face. Do my eyes deceive me? The rumors are true. You have returned Thor. Unless you're a very good pretender but everyone knows I am the best pretending to be someone."
In a flash Thor was no longer looking at the stranger but himself wearing a very wicked grin. More discomfort flooded the God of Thunder about the man, not only a bad attitude but a lover of teasing.
"Who are you?" He asked.
"Who are you?" The man repeated.
Blue eyes flashed, "Stop it."
"Stop it."
Angered Thor threw his fist forward only to see it catch with ease. The stranger, still copying him, looked at the fist with interest then to Thor and smirked wickedly. Transforming back to himself he said, "You ARE the God of Thunder. Only he could throw a punch that hard."
Thor continued to glare and was about to demand who he was a second time when the voice of Rossweisse reached his ears. She had gone after him instead of staying with the old pervert? Perhaps it was to scold him for hitting Odin. He relaxed his arm but couldn't pull it free from the man's grip who continued smiling deviously at him. Seriously, who was this creep?
At last the Valkyrie found him but as soon as she saw the white robed man she scowled, "What are you doing, Loki?"
The surprise was a mere flash of emotion but it rattled Thor deeply at learning who it was that stood before him. Aside from himself and Odin, Loki was well documented by humans for their mythology. Like Skadi, he was a Jotun turned God who was a master of magic and trickery, the latter Thor having just experienced, the father of Fenrir and Jormungandr; the Norse Faction's greatest monsters, and, by the expression Rossweisse wore, not very liked.
"Why I was just testing Thor's mighty strength." The God of Mischief answered as he released Thor's fist, "That's quite a punch he has. A little harder and he may have broken all the bones in my hand."
Rossweises's brow narrowed, not believing a word the trickster said, "Why are you really here?"
Loki rolled his eyes, "Can't a God walk the streets minding his own business? If you must know, he bumped into me."
"You antagonized me after I apologized and asked who you were." Thor said before changing the subject, "Since you are Loki, I guess that makes you my step-brother."
"I am not your step-brother, you fool! I am Odin's blood brother!" Loki corrected, offended at the thought of being related to Thor, "If anybody is your step-brother it's Vidar and Baldur."
"There's no need to yell at him! He didn't know you were his uncle!" Rossweisse defended.
"He didn't know/" Repeated Loki peering at Thor again suspiciously, "Are you really the God of Thunder? You have his name, his looks, and power, but you mistake me as your step-brother? Perhaps you are an imposter who has read too many of those comic books portraying us as superheroes and siblings."
"My return has left me forgetting many things."
"Obviously." Loki drawled with a roll of his eyes. "At least you have not forgotten your strength. I saw how you put the Einherjar in his place. Very impressive." Then he leaned in and whispered, "Although I'm certain much of that strength came from all the training those humans in the Church put you through."
Thor's eyes flashed, "How do you know that?"
Loki smirked, "I think you forgot that, while not related by blood, I too am a part of the Royal Family. Your family, fiancee, the dark winged angel, and Valkyrie bodyguarding you were told and ordered to keep secret your affiliation to those humans who follow the God who created the Sacred Gears. Your secret is safe from the common folk of Asgard."
"And it will remain secret unless my brother wishes to tell the people or not."
Out of the crowd came Vidar, applying pressure to his uncle's shoulder as a show to cease any mischief he was planning.
"Why my dear nephew. I would never go as far as to spread the word that this boy was-"
"Enough," Vidar ordered, to which Loki chuckled amusingly while backing off.
"Forgive me my Lords, but we really must be going." Rossweisse quickly bowed to the Gods before taking Thor's hand and leading him away.
"Farewell, you two! May you both find this night pleasant!" Vidar called out to the two youngsters. When they were out of sight he turned to his uncle, a deep frown upon his face. "Must you be so rude? Have you already forgotten what father told us about that boy?"
"I am well aware of what Odin has told us but may I remind you that he is an enigma. How can someone with your older brother's powers just suddenly appear out of nowhere? Especially in the hands of the Church?"
"That is a mystery even my father is trying to deduce."
"Oh but we can by going straight to the Church demanding answers from them." Said Loki as a shadow passed over his face, "We can crush those fools who follow the White Angels and get the answer as to why those fake Siegfried's are being made and that boy with Thor's name."
"Attacking them is out of the question!" Vidar hissed, "Odin wants peace!"
"Peace" Repeated Loki, his voice dripping with annoyance and anger, "You think joining with those crows is a step towards peace? Not everyone wants to be friendly with another Faction like Odin does. It was foolish of him to accept an alliance with the Angels cast out of Heaven. It will amount to nothing. Whatsmore instead of peace, we could use those Sacred Gears the Fallen Angel leader is making to wipe out those hideous clones of our greatest hero or Muspelheim king. I know you of all people want vengeance on the Devils for allowing Surtr to cheat death by making him one of their slaves. I wonder, since the king of Muspelheim somehow returned, does that mean Thor's sacrifice was in vain? Maybe if you strap on your boots, and go down there and to show those Devils why you are called the God of Vengeance by killing Surtr you can make his sacrifice possible."
Vidar's eyes flashed as a surge of power flowed through him as he gripped Loki's shoulder roughly. "Keep talking Loki and I will show you why I am known as the God of Vengeance."
The gray haired God let a mischievous smile play at his lips, "Struck a nerve have I?"
"Enough, Loki. We are not going to start a war we know we can't win."
"Scared you'll lose your brother again?"
"Yes." Vidar replied with a sigh as the night air ran through his hair, "If I hadn't listened to him I could have saved him. I won't lose him again."
"I'm sure you would have," Loki said, with no hint of remorse within his tone. "Perhaps I should have been the one to save Asgard."
Vidar snorted, "And you think that would make you a martyr? Loki, if you really did try sacrificing yourself for the greater good of Asgard, would one heroic act change who you are at your core? You probably would have tricked Surtr as you do to the people of Asgard. You are a God of Mischief."
"Would you prefer me as a Mischief God or an Evil God?"
Vidar shook his head knowing he would prefer Loki as an ally rather than an enemy. Like the rest of the Aesir, Loki had the power to wipe out a whole continent with the wave of his hand. If he went evil then the world would be in grave danger. It wouldn't just be him they'd face but his children as well. The World Serpent and Dragon King Jormungandr, and his older brother, the God Devouring Wolf, Fenrir!
Two mighty beings whose strength dwarfed almost everyone's. Lucky for them, Jormungandr or sometimes called Midgardsormr, was probably the laziest Dragon anyone had ever met. So all they'd have to worry about was Fenrir however he was no pushover. He was ranked among the top ten strongest beings in existence. His fangs and claws were deadly to all and he feared no one, save for Vidar.
Which brought up a question that had been bugging Vidar for a long time, "Loki, be serious. Would your sons have been of any help protecting Asgard when Surtr attacked?"
Loki frowned at the question. Obviously Fenrir and Midgardsormr would have helped protect Asgar since it was their home too! Fenrir alone could have obliterated the Fire Giants with his mighty claws while his biggest and laizest son, Midgardsormr, could have coiled around Asgard to shield it from all threats while sleeping. If that had happened then Thor wouldn't have become a martyr.
"I think you already know that answer but if you must know then no, Surtr would fail if Fenrir and Midgardsormr were on the battlefield. No Faction would dare attack us, not even the Angels."
Vidar arched his brow, "The Angels? They don't want anything to do with us."
"On the contrary they do. Now that we are allies with one of their sworn enemies and have Thor back, they may try attacking Asgard to get him back. Of course, those fools won't get past our defense; our powers dwarf those of the Biblical Faction who believed themselves to be the superior race." Loki released a hollow laugh, "Ha! What a joke! Angels, Devils and Fallen Angels are all fools to believe they are stronger than the other. The black winged angels are out of their league thinking they can try to use us as a means to bolster their manpower to attack the White Angels and Bats. Is it not said that two of those four Devil leaders have power close to the Ten Strongest Beings in the world?"
"So Azazel says." Said Vidar, "But they want peace like us. You can say what you like, Loki but I believe we are heading into an era of peace."
"I'm sure we are…"
Despite Loki saying such a kind thing, it was done with a deep frown. That would never happen! This boy would never become the next God of Thunder!
Not until Ragnarok comes…
Meanwhile
"Are you alright, Thor?" Rossweisse asked, after leading him down three streets, still holding his hand which caught many bystanders' notice.
Thor shook his head, "What I thought would be a fun night had turned sour thanks to the discovery of Odin being a pervert and Loki's antics. Why didn't you tell me he was a pervert?"
Rossweisse cast her gaze downward, "You had just returned to Asgard and I didn't want it hanging over your head while attending Valhalla."
"Hmmm." Thor hummed, "Well the cats out of the bag and nothing can be done to change it. Tell me, Rossweisse. Was he always like this or was it because of Freya …because of mother… leaving?"
Rossweisse was quick to answer, "I don't know. I've never met the Queen of the Valkyries and have always known the Allfather as a pervert."
"I see." Was all the Aesir prince said, so maybe it was Freya leaving to cause him to act this way.
"Thor! Thor!" Turning to the caller he found to his surprise, Rota was approaching them, her yellow dress making it not hard to spot, "I thought I saw you in the crowd and hello to you as well Rossweisse. Why are you with Thor? Isn't your duty to protect the Allfather."
"The Allfather wanted me to look after him tonight. Seeing as this is his first time downtown he suggested someone show him."
Rota smiled, "Well why not we both show him!?"
Rossweisse blinked, her ears were not clogged with wax so she heard the green haired girl perfectly but it still shocked she wanted them, not herself, to show Thor Asgard. Suspicious crawled into the Valkyrie head. Was she only doing this because of the popularity she was getting after the fiasco with Cadmus?
"Why?" She asked.
A sympathetic smile formed on Rota's lips, "Because it's fun to spend time with your friends?"
Rossweisse looked dejected at Rota's words, "I don't have any…"
Memories of old flashed through her mind. All those years of non-stop studying had paid off in making her become one of the strongest warriors of Asgard. On the other hand, it left her no time for friends and more importantly, love.
"Oh, Rossweisse. Just because you were a busy bee in school doesn't mean it's not too late to be friends."
Surprise filled Rossweisse as she looked at Thor who wore a smile too, "Have I not been your friend since awakening in Asgard, Rossweisse?"
Tears started to well in her aqua eyes, not of sadness but of joy for nobody ever told her that before and it made her happy.
"No, you are my friend Thor." She looked at Rota, "And you too, Rota."
Rota jumped with joy, "Wonderful! Come on, let's show our prince around town!"
And they did.
The two Valkyries led the God throughout Asgard, pointing out certain buildings like the World Serpent Grill and Bar, Treasures of Midgard; Dwarven made jewelry and Vanaheim Sweets. Aside from magic, the Vanir were masters of making sweet's so mouth-watering they make people want more. Currently, Thor found himself in a part of the city that still had a medieval look to it, cobblestone road, straw-thatched roofs, and brick buildings. The only modern architect he could see was the stainless glass windows that allowed shoppers to see the mannequins dressed up or the jewelry. All of which Thor realized was very cheap and bland.
"These are all cheap shops."
Rossweisse's brow twitched, "Cheap? They are discounted goods!"
Thor blinked, discount goods? Guess she preferred to save cash than spend it non-stop but it wouldn't hurt to at least try getting something expensive once in a while.
"At least you're frugal with your spendings." Rota said with a sigh, "I had just seen Herja and Sigrun fail to talk Alruna out of using all her spending on a makeup kit over two hundred dollars."
"Two hundred dollars?" Thor gaped, "All for makeup?"
"All for makeup." Nodded Rota, "Sometimes I wonder why she wanted to be a warrior maiden. If she loves her looks so much she would have gone into modeling."
"You know that's unavailable since Alfheim is running the modeling company. The current debate about removing Lord Freyr from power as Alfheim's governor has slowed or halted trade with the Light Elves."
"If you ask me, I think she only joined just to be with her friends." Rota said with a snort, "Sigrun and Herja are way more dedicated to it . Alruna keeps having to stay after school to pick up the slack in P.E and Valkyrie training but that's what happens when all you do is chase after boys with looks. Your focus on study is why Sigrun admire's you so much."
Rota's words turned Rossweisse's gaze away from a reasonable price toward her, "What did you say?"
"Sigrun admire's you for your hard work."
"She…I didn't know."
"Of course you wouldn't. Your duty as the Allfather's bodyguard keeps you busy as does Sigrun's training as a Valkyrie. She hopes someday to meet you."
"I can make that happen." Thor said, looking in the window at a game called Tafl, "I am the prince after all and my commands should be obeyed too. Sigrun is in my P.E class so she can meet you then."
Rossweisse's cheeks grew red, "Y-you don't have to do that, Lord Thor."
"I know I don't have to but I do. You may not know it, Rossweisse, but you're not just a girl being bullied for not having a girlfriend. You are the strongest Valkyrie youth with great praise by the teachers of Valhalla and Sigrun."
Rossweisse stared between Thor and Rota in awe at this news about her skill being praised. That can't be true can it since before Thor returned she was talked about for not having a boyfriend not her skill. Maybe she was just being known now because of the duel against the Einherjar. Plus, a tiny part of her mind assumed Rota was lying but Thor agreed with her and attended class with Sigrun. Maybe she will listen to them and squeeze time in her work to meet the Valkyrie who admires her.
For now, she and Rota had more to show Thor of Asgard.
Man I didn't expect myself to rewrite so much in the chapter but I am pleased by it. The Einherjar, Henrietta Berg, will from now on be replaced by the Goddess of Earth, Fertility, Wedlock, etc, Sif. The reunions for Sif, Vidar, Tanngrisnir, and Loki, I am very proud of writing. Hopefully the world building has intrigued you all. Anyway I hope you enjoy this chapter. Be sure to give your honest feedback on it and I'll see you all next time.