60 Reviews, 78 Followers, and 56 Favorites. I was not expecting it to get this much after 9 chapters. It sounds like Redux is being met with positivity. Luckily this chapter may peak all you readers' interest. Let's begin!
Merendinoemiliano: Her role as Odin's bodyguard is her primary job so of course she wouldn't help Thor in his mission.
Barricade: It's been corrected.
Maltazar: He would need to win the lottery every day if he is to get three billion.
Valinor: Surely a solution will come forth for Thor.
A month and half had gone by since coming to Asgard and much had happened. The people of Asgard, warriors and civilians alike, had come to cherish the red-haired man, Rossweisse noticed his skills in spell casting had grown stronger and mostly applied to empower his axe and long knife with lightning, and he could name all Nine Realms and those who lived in them like the Elves of Alfheim and the Dwarfs of Nidavellir. Speaking of the Dwarves, the Prince of the Aesir still struggled to figure out a swift solution on how to solve the debt.
His greatest achievement was socializing. Yes, he could talk but it was never about the day to day topics of what was going on in Asgard. Mostly about training, sparing, and the missions he partook in. Now, thanks to the help of his family and friends he could hold a long and cheerful conversation like the hobbies he loved doing. Hobbies like tending the gardens with Freyr when he would visit, going for a ride on the plains beyond the wall with Tanngrisnir, or looking at the history of Norse Faction with Rossweisse.
The times spent together with the silver-haired warrior were memories he would cherish forever. He loved listening to her lectures on seals, the history of the Norse Faction, and the possibilities on who Asgard would ask to be allied with next. It was during one of these talks that he told her he was thinking about forming a team for such a task and offered to have her join but she turned it down saying her responsibilities are protecting the Royal Family. Although Rossweisse refused the offer she gave advice on saying the team would need to have people who are smart, brave, powerful, and those Thor trusts. Sigrun's political skills and battle prowess would be beneficial for the team but who else would join was unknown.
Only time would tell.
In his time not training he was away on missions dealing with monsters or the Fallen Angels who abandoned Grigori. The issue had been successful, mostly. Some returned to Grigori while the rest met a horrible end. Shenhazai, who was the Vice-Governor, wasn't pleased about how many Fallen refused to rejoin. With so many Fallen Angels dead their numbers had dropped to a few hundred. Extinction was a real possibility now.
And let's hope this will be the last group to deal with or Odin's plan for peace and coexistence will fail. That is what Thor thought as he stepped out of the Bifrost, Jarnbjorn in hand ready for battle.
Today the God of Thunder's mission was to exterminate the last group of rogue fallen angels terrorizing a local town in Europe and rescue a hostage they had with them. Shenhazai, the Vice-Governor and a kind man to have a conversation with, had explicitly said no survivors were to remain of this group for the troubles they've caused. He didn't know how many Fallen Angels were there nor felt confident enough in his strength to face them alone so he asked Vetr to aid him. The Jotun's skills facing the Stone Giant at Nidavellir had shown him to be a capable warrior and a more capable hunter than he and those would prove vital in this mission.
"Despite my excitement to be working alongside my greatest hero and inspiration again, I am appalled by these crow's actions. Only cowards use humans as hostages. When we confront them I wanna take their leader myself so he may feel Benbryter's wrath." The Jotun said exiting the Bifrost shortly after Thor had.
"He's all yours, my friend. What I want to know is why the Fallen Angel's would take a person hostage? Azazel said they never take humans unless their rogue Exorcist or Sacred Gear wielders. This hostage may have Sacred Gear those Fallen Angels want."
"That means they may try removing it. Come, let us make haste!" The Jotun declared before taking off with speed that shouldn't have been possible in the heavy armor he wore.
Thor was not one to tire easily but he had to run twice as hard to keep up with the Jotun. Soon they reached the top of a hill overlooking the town the Fallen Angels were harassing. It was small by the looks of it, with only a few hundred buildings and a shopping center. Down there, somewhere in or around the town, hid their foe. If a Church is here then the search will be much easier.
"See anything unusual?" Thor asked, shading his eyes from the sun to get a better look of the town.
"No." Said Vetr with a shake of his head, "If we can find any sign of them I may be able to find where they hide."
"You may be able to find them?" Thor repeated doubtfully.
"Did you forget Fallen Angels prefer flying than walking?" The sheepish expression was the Giants answer, "Nevertheless I will do what I can to find some trace of them."
They entered the town being sure not to draw any attention to themselves. Vetr studied the earth and trees with great detail like an artist preparing a painting but so far found nothing out of the ordinary. For two hours the search was like this and Thor began to worry. Did the Fallen Angels already know about them coming and if the hostage had a Sacred Gear did they obtain it already?
His musing was halted when Vetr stopped and motioned toward a tree were a handful of feathers lay. Vetr scooped them up and stared at them intently until after a long silence spoke, "These belong to Fallen Angels and fell recently. One teleported away from here but why I do not know."
The hunt continued for thirty minutes before talking could be heard up ahead. Together they peeked out behind some bushes to see humans, police officers, standing around talking to one another.
"Any sign of her?"
"We've searched everywhere and found no trace. Not even the dogs can pick up her scent."
"Whoever these kidnappers were, they know how to cover their tracks. I still can't believe that happened…"
"Me neither. Parents murdered and their only child kidnapped was a crime never expected to happen in our little town."
"Do you think the kidnappers are still around?"
"I doubt that. Lingering in the town after murdering and kidnapping would be stupid. What I don't understand is the crow feathers at the crime scene? Is that supposed to be a joke by the kidnappers?"
"Your guess is as good as mine. However, if we find them we can get the answers we seek."
Thor shared a knowing look with Vetr, the house sounded like a good spot to do more searching but they have to be discreet about it. They did not want to warrant any unwanted attention by the locals or the Fallen Angels. The two warriors snuck off into town storing their weapons in pocket dimensions and swapping armor for casual wear. Thor wore a simple back tank top and gray sport shorts while Vetr had a blue button shirt with tan pants.
After asking around about the murder they were told the kidnapped girl was named Alicia and where her house was. When they reached the house it was not in good shape; the front door was blasted to splinters as were the first floor windows broken and a gaping hole was in the roof. Stealthily they snuck passed the cops surrounding it and began searching around for more clues. Most of the furniture was destroyed or turned over when the Fallen Angels came for Alicia. Thor stood by watching for any cops who would come to the house while Vetr continued his hunt.
Those Fallen Angels are going to pay for what they did to this family, I swear on the Allfather's name!
Vetr tapped Thor's shoulder to get his attention, "Everything here is three days old. However, there is something I noticed which I'm sure the police have as well. The window to the kitchen is broken and outside are footprints. Leading into the forest. The foot size is small, of a teenager. Alicia most likely."
Soon he was following the Giant into the forest were they kept going straight before sharply turning left before suddenly ending abruptly with no trace left behind. Alicia must have been snatched by a Fallen Angel flying by. The discovery of how she was kidnapped was solved now they needed to find the Fallen Angels hideout. That was the tricky part. There were no churches in the town or on the outskirts of it so were else could a Fallen Angel hide?
"You hear that!?"
Thor strained his ears to listen to what Vetr heard but couldn't hear anything except for the creaking branches in the wind, chirp of birds and other animals of the forest. What did Vetr hear that he could not? Suddenly the giant started running again, prompting Thor to sigh and start running again. At least this time Vetr saw his error and slowed his pace for the God to catch up. As he followed his friend he saw something flying through the trees. Squinting to get a better look, he saw it was a human shape with wings.
At last we found them! Thor could feel his energy renewing at the possibility of finding the hideout and hopefully saving Alicia. They ran on following the Grigori traitor who was unaware of his pursuers. The pursuit continued for thirty minutes before the Fallen Angel descended to the earth in front of an old mansion covered in vines, obviously their base of operations and where Alica was.
The idea of rushing in and saving Alica plagued his mind but he knew such a tactic would be foolish. He had to be smart about this, smart and fast. If they waited, Alica may die if she wasn't dead already. Suddenly he saw an Exorcist exit the old building and speak to the Fallen Angel.
"How is the ceremony proceeding?" The Fallen asked.
"We have not started yet but will be ready soon." Answered the Exorcist.
"You'd best hurry. The humans are still searching for the girl. Get Jehovah's Horn and give it to Tobias as soon as possible. I need to scout the area again, I saw some suspicious people looking around the girls house."
Thor shared a look with Vetr. So the girl did have a Sacred Gear and it's name was Jehovah's Horn. Whatever its power was it would be used to terrible effect by these Fallen Angels. They had to act now and save Alicia and when they did what then? She would need Grigori's help with her Sacred Gear but would she allow herself to be trained by the people who murdered her family and kidnapped her?
Only one way to find out.
Before Vetr could stop him Thor burst forth from the tree's ready for battle. With a cry sounding like thunder, Thor buried Jarnbjorn into the Fallen's head before he had time to react. The Exorcist was just as unlucky for his last image was lightning erasing him from existence.
"I can't wait to crush Tobias' head." Vetr muttered as he followed Thor through the front door where more rogue Exorcists appeared from different rooms leading to the entryway, each one of them having either a sword, pistol, or both.
They reminded Thor of Caligula and it made him want to break their necks like he had back then. Such an idea sounded fun but he had no time to waste. Before any of the traitorous Church warriors could speak Thor slammed Jarnbjorn into the earth sending forked bolts of lightning through the floor to pierced the humans like a multi armed monster.
The two warriors ran down the nearest halls, adrenaline pumping through them. As they turned down another hall Thor began to regret killing the Exorcists, any one of them could have been used for information on were the ceremony was taking place. It had to be somewhere in this building, either the largest room or a secret underground base which they would need to find the entrance to, which would waste time in the rescue.
Suddenly from the silence came the sound of chants and terrified screams. It was Alicia and the ceremony was starting. They ran faster, following her cries for help before crashing through a set of double doors leading to a giant room, to the dance room. In the room was a small army of rogue Exorcists, about fifty to sixty and they were surrounding a cross that held Alicia, her screams and being drowned out by the chanting. Floating above them all were five Fallen Angels, the five Fallen Angels they came to eliminate.
"This party's over!" Vetr's declaration had all eyes turned to the party crashers with many Exorcists freezing in fear. They heard the stories about the return of the God of Thunder and seeing him in the flesh made the former Church followers rethink their decision today. Their superior Fallen Angels however, were unfazed by the intruders, two teenagers wouldn't stop their plan.
"Who are-" A four winged Fallen began but stopped upon seeing Thor. Her violet eyes widened as she raised a finger and pointed at Thor shouting in rage and surprise, "The…the God of Thunder!"
Thor grinned at the Cadre's words, "We've come to stop your evil scheme."
A six winged Cadre, no doubt Tobias, floated forward and spoke in a commanding yet haughty tone, "Look here my dear friends, Asgard has come to stop us!? They should have joined us! They could have helped us defeat our enemies instead they listened to our aloof leader, Azazel. He was once the most ruthless of us and now he goes around preaching about peace! Pathetic! You hate the Devils too do you not?! We could have destroyed them together!"
Vetr looked at Thor who nodded, neither God or Giant would waste words on these clowns. Vetr yelled as he threw himself at the Fallen Angels, slamming his hammer at Tobias who enclosed himself within his six wings making them hard as steel preventing the weapon from doing any harm to him. Nevertheless, the force of the impact did still send him flying across the room. Tobias' underlings spread out, weapons of light in hand, overconfident as Fallen Angels can be even they knew a Jotunar was still not to be underestimated.
"Thor, get the girl!" Vetr yelled before exchanging the other Fallen Angles.
Seeing Vetr have the Fallen Angels' attention, Thor turned to Alicia who was chained upon a large cross, it made Thor's blood boil. Thor jumped into the air, Jarnbjorn crackling with lightning as he brought it down upon the Exorcists. The strength of the impact coupled with the magic caused a miniature shockwave to erupt through the tiny army, they went flying in all directions with some dying. Some ran for their lives screaming for mercy and forgiveness for their Lord in Heaven while others stayed to fight on for their black winged superiors. They were brave but foolish in thinking they could take him out, he had years of combat experience and a God.
This isn't a fight, Thor thought. Any Exorcist who put up a fight was cut down by Jarnbhorn. Three tried to take him at once, one charging forward one flanking either side but like those who came before, they could not stand against the God of Thunder. As more Exorcists rushed him to bar his way to Alicia, his anger began to rise. He had to save her, prevent the Fallen Angels from taking her Gear, from taking her life!
When a holy bullet grazed his left cheek, his rage exploded out of him like a volcano. His attacks became more brutish and wild. Heads rolled and limbs flew, lighting flashing and thunder booming with each swing of the great axe. With a roar of defiance he slammed Jarnbjorn into the earth to send forth another shockwave that cleared the path to the cross. Removing a large brutish looking Exorcist of his head he finally reached Alicia.
Now that he was closer he had better look at the girl. She seemed to be around fifteen or sixteen years old with shoulder length auburn hair and bright blue eyes, eyes reminding him of Rossweisse. It seemed her kidnapping happened a few days ago because of the condition she was in. Drawing Jarnsaxa he carefully removed each chain until the girl was free allowing her to throw herself onto him, hugging him tightly and crying that she was free at last.
"Do not celebrate yet, Alicia. For victory is not yet achieved." Thor said, removing the girl from him and turning back to stare down the few Exorcists who remained to face him.
Do these fools think they can stop me after seeing what I did to there comrades? What hope they would have against me and Vetr are futile.
Speaking of Vetr, the Giant had just finished the last of the weaker Fallen Angels leaving Tobias and a four winged subordinate for him. Thor knew taking Vetr with him was a smart idea, his strength and hunting skills proved valuable in saving Alicia and facing these foes. His actions today would be shared in Valhalla with the Einherjar and so would his own. Turning to Alicia he politely told her to shut her eyes and cover her ears before pointing Jarnbjorn at the company of Exorcists to fire a great lightning bolt to eradicate the entire front rank. That single attack was enough to break the other's morale and send them fleeing in fear.
A great crunching noise drew his eyes to Vetr slamming his hammer into the four winged Fallen Angel's throat before cutting her throat with his dagger. Now Tobias was all alone. Thor wanted to help Vetr finish off the Fallen Angels but chose to stay on the sidelines to protect Alicia should Tobias choose to kill her. The room grew quiet save for the sobbing of Alicia. Gripping Jarnbjorn tightly, Thor was ready for whatever the Fallen Angel would try but one look at the situation said Tobias was not one to foolishly throw his life away. With a final glare he vanished in a flutter of feathers.
At last the battle was over, their mission complete.
Asgard
"The Fallen Angels were dealt with but Tobias escaped. There are still rogue Exorcists who fled the battle but they are no threat to us. Azazel has sent agents out to deal with them. The townsfolk are none the wiser on what happened to Alicia and her family."
"And the girl?"
"Under the care of Grigori now. She almost had a panic attack when seeing Azazel. It's a good thing he calmed her down and explained he would help her. As for her Sacred Gear, it's called Jehovah's Horn with the power to create sonic blasts. Hopefully she'll be given the help needed to control her Gear and adjust to her new life as an agent of Grigori…"
Rossweisse nodded solemnly, she returned to Asgard seconds before Thor did and the two discussed their events outside the Bifrost.
"What happened in Alfheim and Vanaheim?" Thor asked as he followed the bodyguard across the Bifrost bridge leading into the city.
"Oh, just a usual political meeting about ensuring the Nine Realms stay peaceful and warning them of assassination plots heard by Azazel's spies."
Thor grimaced at the words peace, he recalled Azazel saying during a meeting now was not the time to offer peace to Angels and Devils, not until something big happened. What exactly that was he wasn't sure but when it did then talks for peace with Heaven and Hell could happen. The idea of peace was nice but not with Heaven and Hell. Not when the Angels stayed behind their pearly white gates watching their human followers turn Thor into a superweapon for them to use against the Devils who most certainly would not be called allies by Asgard for what they did. Somehow they had gotten their hands on Muspelheim's king, Surtr, who somehow survived, and reincarnated him into a Devil.
It was an insult to Thor's sacrifice knowing Surtr was alive and a servant to the Devils but how could that vile being still be alive? It couldn't be the real King of Muspelheim for no Devil was strong enough to defeat and turn the Fire Giant with the power of a God into a Devil, not even the Super Devils Sirzechs and Ajuka. This Surtr serving the Devils must be a clone, a fake, a copy of the original whose DNA they must have obtained from the corpse when retrieving it on Midgard.
Yes, Thought Thor grimly, That must be the explanation. Surtr's corpse was taken by the Devils and used to make a less powerful clone for them to control.
"Are you alright, Thor?" Rossweisse's voice penetrated the red head's thoughts to draw his eyes towards her.
"No." Said Thor, "I do not think an alliance with Angels and Devils is possible."
Silver eyebrows knitted together, "The people of Asgard do not forgive and forget so easily. Surtr's invasion is still a fresh memory for those who witnessed it. It took Asgard centuries to finally trust Vanaheim after making peace with the Vanir. Now, as then, they are distrustful of our new allies and future allies, specifically the Church and Underworld."
"Considering what those two groups have taken from us our distrust for them is an understanding one."
"Nevertheless, Odin wishes to see peace achieved and should it come to pass. If we become allies will you at least tolerate them since I know you won't forgive them."
Thor glanced at Rossweisse and nodded slowly, Asgard was tolerating the Fallen Angels perhaps they could do the same for the Angels and Devils.
"I suppose you still haven't found a solution to our debt?" Said Rossweisse after a long silence fell between them.
Thor shook his head, "I have thought long and hard about it but no idea has come to mind. We cannot get three billion dollars only through Grigori's gaming business. Not even they have that much money to help cover the debt."
"Surely Odin may have ideas."
"I haven't spoken to him about that for this task was appointed to me. He has a kingdom to rule."
Rossweisse's shoulder slumped, "Well I hope you can solve it before the year is over. As well as the Dwarves need for a flame needed for their forges. Their skills are unmatched by all, even the Elven Smiths of Midgard. The wedding rings they made for my parents are so beautiful. The gold on them never dulls. Thor?"
Rossweisse paused in her words, noticing Thor stopped dead in his tracks, his eyes widened as if he just realized something important.
"Gold." He said, eyes turning to stare at Rossweisse, "I think you just solved our problem. We need to speak with Odin and Azazel right away."
Hlidskjalf
"Well Thor?" Said Odin as he sat upon his throne looking down upon his son and bodyguard while Azazel stood off to the side, "What is it my bodyguard has called us here for?"
"I believe she has solved our issue. I think I know a way on how we can easily pay off not just the debt to Nidavellir but first," Said Thor turning his gaze to Azazel, "Do you have your Artificial Sacred Gear? The one you sealed Fafnir into?"
Violet eyes widened slightly in understanding what Thor was asking, without question he withdrew the golden lance from his coat and spoke to it, "Fafnir, we need to speak to you."
The purple jewel at the bottom of the hilt glowed and a deep voice boomed forth, "What is it that you wish to discuss?"
"Fafnir, this is Thor. Do you remember where your treasure is hidden?" A silence fell upon the throne room before Thor continued, "You spent lots of time with the Dwarves. You grew to love gold and other treasures as much as they do so you went around the world stealing treasure and stashing it away. Now that you are Azazel's Sacred Gear we are indeed of your treasure to pay our debt to Nidavellir."
As a long rumble could be heard inside the lance, Thor imagined Fafnir shutting his eyes thinking about the question. Would he either aid them, which would be smart, or be greedy and keep it secret. At last the golden dragon spoke.
"I'm sure you're aware of what happened to me; I stole the treasure of Andvari's and Siegfried kills me and gets Hrotti. That, however, was not my hoard. It was recently captured and planned to be sent to my true hoard were all I have taken is stashed. The wealth I accumulated over the centuries would be more than enough to pay off your debt to Nidavellir a thousand times over. The Norse World would be set for centuries."
"So you'll let us have it?" Thor asked, hope filled him.
"As I am now, I have no use for it." Said Fafnir and he sighed, "But…I require a trade."
Thor blinked, what could Fafnir need when he's inside a Sacred Gear? Whatever it was if it would get them his hoard he'd trade it.
"I require….the greatest treasure in all Nine Realms. Freya's violet lace thong!"
A dead silence filled the hall until Odin said, in a surprisingly somber tone, "Such a trade is impossible. Have you forgotten she is no longer among us?"
Fafnir snorted, "I nevertheless must have panties traded!"
Thor felt his brain shut off at the dragon's words. He would trade his treasure…for women's underwear? Odin's perverted nature must have rubbed off on Fafnir and it made anger swelling inside Thor.
"Y-You can take mine! Oh Fafnir, the golden!
Thor's head whipped around to Rossweisse who to his surprise and horror moved her hands to unbutton her pants and was about to take them off.
"Are you for real right now!?" Thor asked, anger and annoyance mixed in his voice.
Though she blushed deeply, her resolve to help Asgard was set, "If it will help us pay off the debt then so be it!"
Before Thor could stop Rossweisse she pulled her pants and underwear down leaving her crotch and butt bare for Odin and Azazel to see, or she would have if the God of Thunder hadn't jumped in front of her denying the king and governor-general the sight of Rossweisse without pants. He felt pity for Rossweisse doing such a degenerate thing but just as proud she was willing to do it for Asgard's sake. It took three seconds to pass before Rossweisse had her pants back on and pink silk panties in hand.
"H-h-here!" She said loudly passing her panties to Azazel who opened a seal above the jewel and dropped them in it.
A loud sniff broke the silence followed by a loud cackle from Fafnir, "Silk! Their silk and pink!"
"Please kill me…" Thor whispered to Rossweisse.
"Our trade is done." Rossweisse said to the dragon king.
"Our trade is done." Repeated Fafnir, "I shall let you have my treasure. However…it has been so long I do not recall exactly were I hid it."
"You're joking!?" Shouted Thor heatedly.
"I am not, Lord of Thunder." Fafnir said flatly, "I have forgotten where I stored my treasure."
"And Dragons never share their treasure with anyone." Azazel put in.
"Well…" Fafnir said slowly, "There was one dragon I shared it with. Lovely singing voice."
"Who?" Asked Thor.
"They were… hmmm… from Africa or Ireland? No his was…Gas..Gassy.
"Gassy?"
"That was his nickname because his full name was very hard to pronounce. Anyway, Gassy was the only dragon I told the location of my treasure. Find him and you will find my hoard and the debt will be paid off." With that the Dragon King faded back into the Gear to slumber leaving the room silent for all to ponder his words. Gassy wasn't much to go off of but at least they had a lead to someone else who knew about the treasure who they were and where they dwelled was anyone's guess.
"I suppose…Huginn and Muninn couldn't find the treasure nor Gassy?" Thor asked.
Odin grunted, "I had my ravens scour the earth for it but neither could find anything. They could try looking for whoever Gassy is but they have other priorities."
Yeah like letting you grope their breasts… Thor thought angrily before saying, "Then I guess it's up to me to find it."
"You are resolved to see debt wiped clean with this treasure hunt aren't you?" Odin said, a smile flashing across his old face, "Then I will not send you off alone on this treasure hunt. Rossweisse, you will go with him."
"Yes Allfather." Rossweisse obeyed, "However, if I may advise, we should gather more. The two of us alone will not be able to find Gassy nor face the foes that will also be after the treasure."
"Others?" Thor asked.
"Fafnir's treasure is a legend all around the world that everyone, human and supernatural, want to get their hands on. Whoever can get it will be set for life." Azazel said.
"And that's why Asgard must get it. We need it more than someone looking for power and fame."
"I would also give one more warning." Said Azazel, his face going serious for a second, "Fafnir told me he stole more than money. He mentioned once that he had a superweapon in his hoard and that if it was to fall into the wrong hands it would be used to devastating effects."
"A superweapon?" Repeated Thor, "Now we must get that treasure before anyone else. Did it by any chance belong to another Faction?"
"He did not say but when you find it perhaps we will know who it belonged to. That way we can return it to them if they are not dead."
Valhalla Academy next day
The bell for lunch rang and Rota hastily made her way to the cafeteria. She had worked up quite an appetite after the long work Brynhildir put her through in today's class and now she could finally eat. She had just entered the room and grabbed a tray of food for herself and Cadmus, who still was not exiting his room, when a familiar red head was spotted approaching her.
"Thor?" It surprised her to see the Son of Odin talking to her outside of sex-ed class.
"Rota. Just the girl I was looking for." He said, "I wanted to tell you something. May I walk with you?"
"Of course."
She followed him out of the cafeteria, the other students gaping wide mouths at seeing Thor and Rota together. No doubt this could spread a rumor but she would ignore it. When they were in an empty corridor she listened to Thor go into detail of his plan to find Fafnir's treasure to pay the debt and how he needed help hunting for it.
"You want my help again?"
"Why not? You were there at Nidavellir and heard the situation. I would gladly ask for your aid once more."
"Of course I will!"
"And the others? Vetr, Alruna, Herja, and Sigrun?"
"Sigrun is here but the others are away on missions."
Thor smiled, "Great. Then when Rossweisse learns who Gassy is we can go.'
"With Cadmus."
Thor's smile faltered when the Greek Einherjar was mentioned, "Cadmus?"
"He can help you." Rota said.
"He bullied you and many others and has not left Valhalla since I dueled him. What reason is there to ask him for aid?"
"Because it's the right thing to do. Because he deserves a second chance."
"A second chance?" Snorted Thor, "How would you know he should be given a second chance when he hasn't apologized for his actions?"
"Yes. If you let him join the treasure hunt his actions will speak louder than any apology he says."
They walked the rest of the way to Valhalla in silence, Thor too caught up in his thoughts about Cadmus. If Cadmus accepted the offer to join the mission would his actions be enough to make up for his bullying, for insulting Rossweisse? Only the Norns, the Weavers of Fate, could decide that. Passing through the great hall they entered the hallways leading to the bedrooms and stopped at Cadmus' room.
"Cadmus, I've come with food." Like always there was no answer as she placed his tray on the ground, "Thor is here with me. He's asking for help with a mission and asked for our aid." No response but she kept talking, "Cadmus, I would very much like for you to join us, to join me, on this mission to help Asgard. I know many in Asgard are disgusted by your bullying but you can redeem yourself if you help."
Suddenly Thor leaned in, "I thought the Einherjar are supposed to stay in Asgard?"
"Not without the Allfather's permission or for battle."
Eventually the bell rang with no sign of Cadmus opening his door leaving Rota crestfallen. She had hoped beyond hope her words would convince him to turn over a new leaf and start over with Asgard. Still, she at least could help find Fafnir's treasure.
Later
School had ended and Thor was outside with Rota and Sigrun, it only took mentioning Fafnir's treasure to have Sigrun join the quest. After the meeting yesterday Rossweisse rushed off to the library to find any information related to a dragon named Gassy recommending Thor collect more people to aid in the treasure hunt which he agreed to. His problem, however, was who could he ask to help him? There was Vidar and Sif but his brother was currently away dealing with some troubling Jotun and Sif was a teacher plus he wasn't sure if she could still fight anymore. In the end he opted to ask the same friends who went with him to Nidavellir for they were there to hear about the debt and should be a part of this hunt for Fafnir's treasure.
"It's a shame Vetr, Herja, and Alruna are away. They could have been of great help for the quest but the four of us will have to suffice." Said Thor reading a teleportation circle to the library.
"Wait!"
The cry halted Thor's spell's and Sigrun's question about who the fourth companion was. They looked back and saw someone running towards them, running towards them from Valhalla. When the stranger drew closer Rota was filled with joy and she called out the stranger's name high and loud.
"Cadmus!"
Indeed it was Cadmus, he was weary for he panted from running across the field to the academy with a heavy pack leaving his clothes and hair stuck to his skin. He took a few minutes to catch his breath, brush the hair out of his face and look between the trio. Each one of them gave him a different look; Rota was happy, Sigrun disgusted, and Thor surprised.
"Cadmus." Rota said again, "You…you came out of Valhalla."
"Yeah." He said, still panting, "I…I am so-"
"Save your apologies." Thor interrupted who had stepped forward to confront the Einherjar, "If you are here then you are committed to helping us find Fafnir's treasure?"
Brown orbs widened, "T-treasure?"
"Yes. Treasure. I will explain more at the library. Now answer my question. If you are here then you are committed to helping us find Fafnir's treasure?"
"I am." Cadmus said without hesitation.
"But." Said Sigrun.
"No time for that." Interrupted Thor again preparing his spell.
"But."
"No time for that either. We can ask questions and complain at Hlidskjalf."
With that the four were enveloped in a light leaving the other students of Valhalla with a million questions.
And at last we come to the end of this chapter. Thanks to Rossweisse a solution has been found but it will not be easy. I am partly glad I added that moment of Rossweisse offering her panties to Fafnir since this is still an eechi series. LMAO. Now we have come to an arc I had BIG plans for in my old story; The Treasure Hunt Arc.
Originally I was going to have Thor and Rossweisse work with team Vali after they joined Asgard. Yes, what I've said could be called a spoiler, but to anyone who has read the novels and Roots of Hope will know Vali canonically joins Asgard since he is named after a Son of Odin, Vali. Luckily I can always come up with someone else for Thor and Vali to do but that will have to wait for a long while.
Anyway I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and be sure to give your feedback to it. See you all next time!