Chapter 6 - A New Battleground! PT. 3
The doors to the limousine remotely unlocked, and the chauffeur stepped out of the vehicle. In the moment when his door was open, the music blared. Then it shut, and he stepped around to let the War Goddess out first.
She could hear the cheers. All of the spectators erupted with excitement. Hundreds, thousands of people. The music kept playing, and the air was filled with glitter and confetti. Paparazzi were among the crowd, camera crews, broadcasting nation and worldwide.
After all, this was the single most grand event in the universe. Everyone had to see it.
Bellona grinned at the chauffeur, who bowed his head down in respect as he walked alongside her around the limousine. The Goddess waved a few times to the hundreds of spectators. Dozens upon dozens of photos being taken per second.
But that was nothing compared to what was coming.
She personally opened the door to the side of the limousine that was parked on the sidewalk. The Entrance Walkway for the Gods was a designated spot for them to arrive at to enter their designated seating area, separate from the mortal crowd.
It of course came adorned with a red carpet.
Bellona slowly opened the door and offered her hand to the Goddess that was sitting inside.
Neith accepted it.
And as soon as her golden heel hit the carpet, the cameras spiked up.
The area became filled with white flashes. Neith's eyes reflected each one, and it looked as if she was glowing. The light of the flashes shined off her clothing and her sleek body. She looked ethereal.
Everybody was expecting her. Such a titular name amongst the Gods, and she hadn't been revealed on the roster for the new Battle Arenas.
People had to know if she was going to take part.
Neith stood tall next to her beloved, the chauffeur behind the two closing the door to the limousine and preparing to clear the way for other vehicles that would soon arrive. The cameras didn't stop taking flick after flick, not just of each Goddess, but of them together.
Bellona offered up her arm and Neith promptly accepted it. The two began to walk down the carpet together, linked together.
"What'd I tell you…?" Bellona said to her with a smile. "They love you."
Neith looked around and smiled at the crowds as she walked. When she did, the cameras flashed more rapidly, and the cheering and yelling got louder. She could make out her name being yelled out by dozens of reporters and journalists.
"Lady Neith, any comments on—"
"Lady Neith, over here!"
"Could we have a word on—"
"Madam Neith, do you—"
So many questions. So many requests for interviews and photographs. She could already guess what it was all about. Her feelings and thoughts on the new Battle Arena, and whether she knew she was going to be a part of the alpha testers.
In reality, she had no idea. But she did have one hell of a hunch. Her face grew fairly stiff as she kept striding along.
Then came the more interesting part. The multitude of other deities that found themselves spread around the red carpet.
The first of which ended up calling out to the pair: Nu Wa.
"Neith! Bellona!" she called out, waving her hand in the air.
"Nu Wa!" Neith beamed.
Nu Wa was accompanied by none other than Yu Huang. The two acted together as the two leaders of the Chinese Pantheon under the title of consorts, however the two were not romantically involved, according to them.
Of course, people had their doubts. But gossip helped nobody. The two pairs of deities approached one another and exchanged casual, respectful greetings. Bellona and Yu Huang shook hands while Neith and Nu Wa shared a polite embrace.
And of course, cameras captured it all with a flurry of white flashes.
"It's marvelous to see you both here, together! My goodness… you're both stunning," Nu Wa spoke.
"And in good health, most importantly. A grand day we have here before us," said Yu Huang with a proud expression.
"It's wonderful to see you both too! It feels like it's been a little while since things have been this hectic though, doesn't it? It's marvelous!" Neith marveled, her eyes darting around and taking it all in. She was still trying her very best to adjust, a stunning smile on her face, showing off those perfect teeth of hers.
"Nothing we're not used to," Yu Huang responded. "Much less to someone as grand as yourself, Lady Neith."
"You're too kind, Jade Emperor…" Neith giggled and promptly bowed her head down, to which Yu Huang did the same.
"I am so ecstatic to see you in action later today, Lady Bellona!" Nu Wa said cheerfully.
"Perhaps you'll be one of the lucky four to join myself and the rest of the Alpha testers, your grace," Bellona said with a grin.
"Oh-hoho! No, I don't think so! However, your beloved here may just be the one you're thinking of…"
All eyes turned to Neith, which made her shrink a little. But she brushed it off with a giggle and waved a hand about. "L-Let's not get ahead of ourselves…"
"I agree whole-heartedly," Yu Huang spoke up. "You are adored amongst the mortals, admirers of the Arena or not. The chance of you going unselected is slimmer than any."
Neith's heart sunk. But she couldn't help but instinctively nod her head. "Yes… well—we shall see!"
"We shall. And speaking of deities who have shockingly gone unannounced, here come a few now…" Nu Wa smiled, holding onto her own wrist.
The group of Gods turned their attention to back to the streets at the very end of the large carpet. A giant flying carriage that was being pulled by spectral Pegasi. The Gods were free to choose the way they announced themselves and arrived at the ceremony.
Some arrived on their own, others by vehicle, others by air travel, some by teleporting, flying, running, anything of the sort.
And of course, some Gods were more old-fashioned. Such as the Olympians, who made their grand entrance on this flying carriage that was surrounded by the mist of the clouds they had just descended from.
The heavens, literally.
"Bells of the ball," Bellona chuckled.
"Always wanting to be the very grandest," Yu Huang said, shaking his head slightly.
"They've earned the right. And yet, does being so grandiose not get tiring after such a long time?" Nu Wa sighed.
"Not to them," smiled Neith. "The Greeks have always been that way."
"Can you attest to that, Lady Bellona?" Yu Huang smirked.
"Hah…!" Bell laughed, briefly glancing over. "Only some of us. In the parts considered under the rule of Mount Olympus, then yeah, sure. But that's why they're still Greek. People think we're one in the same, but Roman custom is at least a little less showy."
"Your names are prettier too," commented Neith. "I love you, but I'd never call you Enyo."
"And I don't want you to," Bellona laughed. Nu Wa and Yu Huang did as well.
From the divine carriage came all the Olympians. First came Artemis, followed by Apollo, Hermes, Ares, Aphrodite, and finally Athena.
They were among the youngest Olympians. Hermes, however, was better known in the Arena by his roman name: Mercury. And he looked a little disappointed as he walked alongside his half-siblings. He had wanted to show off his speed to the world by running here and making his appearance with the thundering sound of a sonic boom.
But… that would likely deafen a few mortals, and with how lousy he was at controlling his speed, ran the risk of accidentally turning a few of them into red mists. And that wouldn't be very sightly at an event like this.
So he was convinced to ride with the rest of the Olympians.
After the children came the greater Olympians: Poseidon, Athena, and Hephaestus, better known as Vulcan. The blacksmith had long been forgiven by his sister for his heinous actions, and though his relationship with the Olympians was strained, it was important to show a sense of unity and family during times like these, where the whole world was watching.
And so, he walked alongside Athena herself, mighty hammer in hand and all.
Finally… came Zeus and Hera. Hand in hand, waving to the masses.
"There he is," Bellona finally said.
"Not choosing him would make him shake the skies. All these years, and I still think he doesn't deserve the fame he's amassed…" Yu Huang criticized, folding his arms up.
"Now, now. This isn't the time for pettiness. We've come a long way, an extremely long way. We are better than that now," Nu Wa reminded the Jade Emperor, to which he acquiesced, and gave her a reassuring nod.
"With deities like him who haven't been announced, I don't think I stand a chance!" Neith giggled. "Look at the potential! Not just Zeus as the obvious pick, but… Poseidon, Athena, Artemis! All so beloved by the Arena!"
"And you just as much, if not more," Bellona countered, leaning toward her girlfriend a little and towering over her.
Neith rolled her eyes. "Of course… I'm just saying."
Oh, one Olympian was left in the carriage, however. Two mortal guards inside the carriage shoved him out of it.
Dionysus. Or… Bacchus. Wasted out of his mind, just as he always was, even for such a grand occasion. He drunkenly picked himself up and lifted his massive infinite jug of wine into the air, bringing out a boisterous roar from the crowd. He laughed and let out a few slurred words, before being grasped onto by Argus, Hera's very own personal Defender, and carried along by the back of his collar, like a kitten.
This of course made the area erupt with laughter and even more photos. Cheers and shouts filled the area from the scene that had just effectively ruined the grand entrance of the Olympians, or at least made it look sillier than they had intended for it to be.
Zeus made sure to zap Bacchus with a healthy amount of lightning to sober him up a bit and get his senses working again once Argus delivered him to his side.
One such Olympian was eager to meet with one such War Goddess, making her way past her siblings, ensuring that Aphrodite wouldn't flash a tit at the cameras, or that Apollo wouldn't get distracted with dozens of interviews about his hair and muscles.
She slid past Artemis, grabbing her hand to get her attention and motioning over to the group of deities she was intent on speaking to. Despite being reluctant at first, Artemis allowed herself to be dragged along by her half-sister.
"If it isn't one of, if not my finest apprentice!" Athena beamed as she approached Bellona, letting go of Artemis.
"Athena," Bell replied, bowing her head down briefly, before Athena moved forward to scoop her up and squeeze her.
Artemis' eyes set themselves on Neith instead. "The Weaver of Fate."
"The adorable Goddess of the Hunt. Still pretending to be the toughest of them all?" she teased, before pulling the red-haired Goddess in for a tight hug.
"Neith—not in front of the world like this!" Artemis groaned, her voice tight from improper airflow, thanks to Neith's hold on her.
"Oh, who cares! Can the world not know that I love my dearest friends? How are you, sweetie?" chirped Neith, letting Arty go and holding her hands.
"I'm fine… just wanted to say hi. It's good to see you," Artemis said in return, feeling Neith squeeze her hands.
Why was everybody she was friends with so touchy? Being so reserved, the Huntress struggled to deal with so much physical contact. Artemis blushed a little, looking down at Neith's elegantly decorated hands holding her own, which were ever so bland and ordinary in comparison. No jewelry, no nail polish… nothing, really.
Maybe she should've fancied up at least a little instead of always being such a plain Jane.
She looked back up and said, "And you look… pretty. Even if you're still not wearing any pants."
"Awkward as always, but you love me anyway, pants or not!" Neith giggled, stepping back and only holding Artemis' fingers. She took in her appearance and shook her head in disbelief. "Your new look is beautiful, Arty. I really hope it gets you chosen today."
Artemis laughed. "I may've gotten a little glow up, but I know I'm still nothing next to you. Everyone's eyes just gravitate towards you. And just like my father, there's no way you aren't going to be an Alpha tester."
"Oh, stop… the cosmos know I could use a break," Neith sighed, before realizing what she had just let slip. Damn. Artemis always had such a calming, sincere atmosphere surrounding her. It was enchanting in a way, and it had made her drop her guard.
"I—I mean… a break from… f-from all this—"
"Hey, I get it," Artemis shrugged, managing to offer Neith a smile. "You don't have to try and cover it up. Everybody gets a little exhausted from time to time."
"You sound just like Bell…"
"Do I…?"
Artemis and Neith turned their head over to look at their fellow deities.
"C'mon, you really think Ares will make it in before you do?" laughed Bellona.
"It'd be a joke. You far surpass the ability of your brother," added Yu Huang.
"By far!" Nu Wa agreed.
Athena was laughing, and quite heartily too. She held her belly and waved her hand to the others. "You're all too much! But think about it, if Bellona was chosen for her ferocity and fame, why not him? Regardless of what we deities think, it's the mortals we're here to entertain!"
"Many think that way, but we are here for ourselves too! To stay in shape and ensure that we do not grow dull in the art of combat!" Yu Huang said proudly, raising a finger into the air.
"Finally someone gets it!" Bellona cheered, clapping her hands. "Thank you, Jade Emperor!"
"In all honesty, I see both of us standing a fair chance! My brother and I may've had our quarrels in the past, but just because we stand today as rivals doesn't mean I cannot endorse his ability!" Athena announced, shrugging her shoulders up.
"Always the humble sibling, short of Artemis," Nu Wa smiled, craning her neck to look at the Huntress.
Artemis shyly waved, before looking back to Neith and chuckling. "My money's on Athena."
"I know Ares would be thrilled, however," Neith said. "I know Bellona is."
"I can't say I wouldn't be excited to see my arrows pierce the air in these new Battle Arenas, but the thrill of having them at all is still over encompassing. I wish everyone luck," bowed Artemis.
"I'm rooting for you!" Neith said as she waved goodbye to her fellow huntress.
Artemis made sure to bow before Nu Wa and Yu Huang as her goodbye before setting off to join the rest of her family. Athena stayed behind for a few extra words, placing her hand on Bellona's shoulder.
"If I am to be chosen, then rest assured, I want my pupil by my side."
"What, you scared to fight against me, o' wise one?" Bellona taunted with a confident grin.
"But of course! I am the one who taught you your more refined techniques, am I not?"
"Ares made me mighty back in the day."
"That may be true, but I took the brute force and raw power that he instilled in you and made it even better, grander. You fight not just with strength, but with strategy too! Calculated, efficient! I've trained a fascinatingly capable warrior, forging you into what I knew you could be all those centuries ago," Athena said confidently, lowering her head a little and staring into Bellona's soul with her piercing eyes.
Bellona couldn't help but feel empowered. She beamed more brightly, letting out a small laugh. "Yeah. Maybe. You were both a great help. But just because you think I'm formidable doesn't mean you can just hide from me!"
"You know I will not back down if that is what it comes down to. But as the saying goes: I am better as your friend, rather than an enemy."
Their hands came together in a firm handshake, both Goddesses smiling.
"See you soon, Athena."
"I sure hope so, Bellona. And to all of you as well!" Athena bowed, letting go of Bell's hand and gesturing her goodbye with a wave.
Nu Wa and Yu Huang turned over and gave bows of their own.
"We must continue as well! The time draws near for the ceremony to begin. Best of luck to you, Neith," Nu Wa said.
"Until next time," Yu Huang nodded.
And with that, the Gods separated. Neith and Bellona made their way further along the massive Entrance Walkway, each step photographed and cheered over. The red carpet remained spotless, somehow. Likely a magical spell or enhancement to ensure it couldn't be tainted.
More and more deities began to arrive behind them. It was a consistent flow.
Chang'e and Hou Yi arrived together in a moon carriage.
Ishtar announced herself with rays of light and sparks of lightning from the heavens.
Ix Chel descended on clouds and rainbows.
The Arthurians all by ground carriages and horses, Lancelot leading, with Merlin emerging from the carriage first and lending a helping hand to the King himself, Arthur.
The Morrigan fluttered over everybody, skipping introductions and entering the hall undetected as a raven. Neith's watchful eye spotted her, however. She decided not to say anything.
Hades and Persephone emerged from the underworld through a portal. The cameras loved that entrance more than most as the pair made their way toward the hall linked by the arm, like many other couples.
Loki was accepting scattered interviews, making journalists and interviewers laugh with his jokes.
Da Ji was posing for all the cameras, showing off her luscious tails and voluptuous form.
The Norse Gods were as grand and mighty as ever. Odin leading them, with Thor encouraging the masses to cheer and praise the Allfather. Freya and Tyr were never far behind.
"Bellona!" a voice called out.
She turned her head over, only to see nothing there. Then, she gasped, looking up into the air and seeing an eagle flying straight at her.
"Hah!"
The eagle burst into a flash of light and smoke, forming into a large, muscular figure that spun a staff around and brought it up over their head, before climactically slamming it downward.
In a puff of ash and brimstone, Bellona's shield came to be around her left forearm to block the downward smash. A massive metallic clang sounded off through the entire area, and a small shockwave rang out, ruffling up the hairdos of those nearby, deity and mortal alike.
Startled, Neith took a few steps back, staying right behind Bellona.
"You bastard!" Bellona laughed, pushing the staff upward off her shield.
"If I don't keep you on your guard, nobody will!" the figure cackled, revealing himself as none other than the Monkey King and Great Sage, Equal of Heaven.
The two deities simultaneously unsummoned their weapons, making them vanish into thin air as they smashed their hands onto each other's forearms, grasping each other firmly.
"Wukong, good to see nothing's changed!"
"Why would it ever, o' mighty Goddess of War!"
Neith let out a sigh and shook her head, stepping up next to Bellona.
"You two have got to stop greeting each other like that! You'll scare people!"
"Doesn't look that way to me, Weaver. Look around!" Sun Wukong exclaimed, raising his arm up into the air.
And it was true. It seemed that the mortal crowd absolutely loved the little stunt. The cameras were still wildly flashing, and the cheering was much louder than it was before.
"Don't worry, Neith. It was just a little tap anyway. If Sun and I were actually trying, that shockwave would've blown everyone away and flattened the hall. All it made was a little sound, that's all," shrugged Bellona.
"A little sound that was very sudden. Now shush," Neith said, bringing her finger up over her lips. "C'mon, let's go."
"Still a slave to your mistress, eh?" Wukong chuckled, folding his arms over his chest.
"Slave? No, just not an asshole to her," Bellona remarked with a grin, playfully punching Wukong's shoulder before following after her girlfriend.
"Just because you got chosen already doesn't mean I can't face you yet, Bellona!" Sun yelled after her.
"We'll see if you even get picked, Buddha boy!" Bellona laughed, raising her fist in the air. She didn't even bother to turn around and look at him, either.
"And by the way," Neith yelled suddenly, spinning around and snapping her vision onto Sun Wukong as she back-pedaled.
"A mistress is an extramarital partner in an affair! I am not Bellona's mistress! I am her one and only, just so you get it right next time, Monkey!"
And the crowd blew up, having heard every word. Cheers and yells and jeers and clapping, all overlapping and creating a constant roar of noise that filled Sun Wukong's ears. Of course, he couldn't help but chuckle to himself.
"Alright, settle down!" he'd shout to the masses as he began to saunter along.
Neith spun back around and slid her arm around Bellona's, linking them and leaning her head on the shoulder that didn't have a huge, spiked shoulder pauldron on it.
"Bet that felt good, didn't it," Bellona quipped.
"Shut up…" Neith mumbled, making Bellona chuckle.
Minutes later...
Once they were inside, the deities were directed along by mortals to their seating area. It was akin to a massive award show that was commonly held by mortals, like the Oscar or Emmy awards. The area for the deities was completely separate from the thousands of rows of seats that were reserved for the mortal audience.
And of course, the area for the Gods was on the very ground floor, front and center to the stage.
Once they entered the seating area, Bellona and Neith took it all in. The hall was massive. Like a stadium, or the world's largest theater or concert venue. Bell turned to Neith and gave her a small smile.
"This is where we separate."
"What will I ever do…" Neith said sarcastically.
"Don't worry, though. You'll join me soon enough. In the Alpha-tester section."
"Whatever," said Neith, rolling her eyes. She stepped forward and got up on her tippy toes to kiss her girlfriend. Even in high heels, she couldn't quite reach the way she wanted to.
But Bellona helped, wrapping her arms around Neith's waist and pulling her up a little while also leaning down so their lips could connect the way they were used to. Firmly and only slightly open-mouthed.
They were still in public, after all. Had to try and hold back at least a little.
They came apart with a soft, wet smack. Bell smiled again.
"I'll see you soon."
"Go, honey."
Bellona slid her hands back and made her way toward the section that was reserved for the ten deities that had already been selected and revealed to be part of the Battle Arena's Alpha tests.
Neith licked her lips, still tasting Bell's saliva on them. She giggled to herself, before going her own way to join the rest of her fellow deities in the section that was reserved for the Egyptian pantheon.
Already seated were Ra, Nut, and Geb, who were among some of Neith's oldest family and fellow primordials. She greeted them each with the respect they deserved.
"My little ray of sunshine," she said as she embraced Ra.
"Mother. I still wish you were not so publicly affectionate," replied the mighty Sun God.
"Some things never change," Nut commented with her soft, otherworldly voice. "One of said things… is the love of a mother."
"You'd know well, Nut."
"Neith."
Nut and Neith promptly shared a short embrace too.
"And how could I forget? Geb!" Neith squealed, lightly stepping over and hugging… his arm. Geb was too large for her to embrace fully, so that would have to be enough.
"Happy you could make it, Neith."
"You look happier than ever, Geb! Wouldn't happen to be because a certain Goddess is finally among us, would it?"
"Yes. Finally, my love shows herself to the world. No longer will we be held separate," Geb said proudly, looking down at Nut.
"I am eternally grateful to be here," said Nut with a warm smile.
"As are we, to be in your presence," Ra said, but not before a grunt from Geb made him flinch and look over.
"Long ago… you turned her against me, Amun-Ra."
Ra narrowed his eyes. And for a few moments, Geb and Ra glared at each other. But as always, Nut separated them both, raising her hand up.
"Such happenings have come and gone, and many a millennium have we had… to recover from those old wounds. There is no sense in recalling the disagreements of the past."
"Nut speaks the complete truth," Neith said in support of one of her favorite granddaughters. "We are all together now. And long have those old conflicts been forgiven. Have they not?"
Ra and Geb looked between Nut and Neith, before looking at each other once more.
"I suppose so," Ra said.
"Yes. But even so. For eons, I endured such great torment, separated from the one who was destined for me. Such a pain does not fade easily," Geb grumbled.
"But I am here now, and I have been. It will pass one day, my love. And a big part of that… is forgiving, and moving forward," Nut reminded him. And Geb had to nod.
"Ra had his reasons. If not for all our sacrifices… the world wouldn't have come to be the way it is now. That's something to be thankful for," Neith smiled.
"The new age must continue. And for us to remain, it is peace that must prevail," Ra proclaimed.
And the deities all agreed. Neith took her seat at the table alongside Ra and Nut. Geb didn't have a chair, he was too big and heavy. So… he just sat on the ground. It looked a little silly. But that's what was necessary.
Soon, more of the Egyptian deities arrived. Bastet first and foremost, daughter of Ra himself. And of course, the children of Nut: Eset, Osiris, and Set. The greetings continued on for a few more minutes as everyone arrived.
Khepri was another large deity who was fine not having an actual chair to sit on. He preferred the ground anyway. Horus came with his parents and made sure to stay an entire table away from his uncle, Set. Serqet sat with him though. Neith couldn't help but give her daughter an embrace, despite Serqet hating hugs unless they involved… more sultry intentions.
And even though nobody else would dare touch him, Neith ended up hugging Sobek too.
Possibly the only living being in the universe who would ever bother wanting to hug a giant carnivorous reptile.
The Egyptian Pantheon was… quite the colorful and diverse Pantheon, to say the very least. But Neith wouldn't have had it any other way. She loved her fellow deities to death, and as she sat there, sipping on some wine and snacking on tiny little blocks of cheese and salami that had been brought out on trays by mortal servers, her smile never died down.
After about an hour more of preparation and arrivals, the doors to the hall were closed… and the ceremony was set to begin. The mortals who had purchased seats were seated as well, and the deities who had long been ready were not to be kept waiting any longer.
Not that Neith minded, of course. If there was anything she enjoyed about massive events like these, it was that all the deities could be together in one single place. It was like a huge party that everybody had to go to! So many familiar faces, some she saw often, and some she never got to see!
But as the lights dimmed down, and the hall grew quiet… a voice sounded off through the speakers and resounded into the ears of all.
"Welcome, everyone!"
A human announcer. And standing next to him… Odin, the Allfather.
"On behalf of all of humanity, we are thrilled… to have such a divine presence in this hall tonight! So many of our beloved deities, if not all of which, who have graced us with their presences thus far! Present, and hopefully just as excited as we are to announce the beginning…"
And of course, a pause for dramatic effect.
"Of the new Battleground of the Gods!"
The entire hall erupted with applause and cheers. The Gods clapped along too, even.
"A brand new and improved field of combat to bear witness to! The Games of the Arena have been revolutionized, reimagined, and remastered! And we couldn't be happier to share it all here with you, tonight!"
More applause sounded off over the sound of the speakers.
From there, the hall lit up with an array of lights and projectors, beginning to display onto a massive screen images and footage of the new arenas, including the reveal video that was posted online to make the initial announcement. By the time the demonstrations and such were over, the crowd was electrified, dying to know what other deities would be chosen to participate.
But prior to that, more was to be discussed. Several different speakers came onto the stage to talk about the development of the arenas, their goals and aspirations, what they hoped to achieve, and of course, reverence to the divine and that these projects were made not just for the entertainment of the world, but for them as well, to demonstrate their mighty powers and use the art of combat for good.
Here, any and all those with celestial blood would be able to release more of their power, to hold back less, to experience competition against their fellow deities in a way they hadn't been able to before.
And humanity would be there to cheer them all on.
More specifics and such were discussed, like the technologies that were created to better protect spectators from the powers of the deities, to better contain their energies so that they may utilize it more efficiently, while also ensuring the safety of all those involved, mortal or immortal alike.
Newer, more efficient respawn charms were made, new items in the in-game shop, balance changes to power regulators, more build options, and finally, the announcement of so many things that fans of the Arena could purchase to support the Arena and the deities.
Which was essentially just an invitation for mortals to throw away all their lifesavings for Arena Games merchandise, like clothing, action figures, posters, charms, etc.
But after nearly an hour and a half of talking, discussing, and announcing… came the time to reveal the future combatants of this new battleground.
The Alpha Testers.
That's when the mortals turned the microphone over to Odin, who spoke with his deep, gruff, and mighty voice that thundered and boomed through the entire hall without even a sliver of effort.
All eyes were on him.
"My fellow deities," he addressed the Gods directly. "From all parts of this terrestrial world, and some from even further beyond, among the more distant reaches of our universe and the realm that it stands in… I thank you. Thank you all… for gathering here with us on this day, alongside our mortal companions."
The entire event had been being broadcasted live throughout the realms. Cameras switched angles in unison, watching the faces of mortals and Gods alike as Odin spoke.
"For years, we have coexisted, side by side. Helping one another, interacting with one another… living with one another. Mortals, the worship and reverence you hold for our kind… is something that we could not be more grateful for. While many of us may have disagreed in the past… we from the heavens, are here to serve. To protect."
In the audience, Thor was nodding along.
"And in exchange, you lend us power through your veneration. Mortals and Gods… we are two sides of the same coin. The coin of life, that which makes us more similar than many would care to admit. We stand here today with respect to the common ground we all share. Something that brings us all together."
Hercules, with his massive arms folded, squeezed his biceps.
"The Arena."
Nike was smiling to herself.
"Where we can all enjoy and partake… in a battleground that immortalizes the glory of the Gods, and the efforts of the mortals, all of us in pursuit of what makes us content. Laughter, sorrow, thrill, excitement, misery! Without the feelings invigorated by the art of war, many of us… would be nothing!"
Ares was rubbing his hand over his knuckles.
"Here, on this battleground… we will come together, and seek exactly that! Long gone, are the days where battles had to end in death! Now, we can fight to compete! To earn the respect of your fellow Gods and demonstrate to the world… that we are still, and will forever be mighty!"
All the Gods cheered, and that made the mortals cheer as well. Susano was clapping, so was Sun Wukong and Gilgamesh. Ishtar had a shit-eating smirk on her face, Kali looked like she wanted to bite someone's throat out, Lancelot was clapping and whooping, Discordia smirking to herself, and Chang'e… having her lunar rabbit cheer and yell for her.
"The Games of the Arena. They've been our battleground for many years. But now, we move on to greater things. The Arena is changing, as we all have been. The world, our universe, reality as we know it. It is no mystery to us, my friends. We immortals."
Shiva was watching calmly, and so was Guan Yu. But Ravana already just wanted to punch something, and that was making Maman Brigitte have a good chuckle under her breath.
"We are no strangers… to change. This one shall be no different! With open arms, we welcome our new Battleground! And as such, I personally want to welcome…"
Another dramatic pause.
"Its first… combatants!"
The audience once again blew up with cheers and applause, this time, louder and grander than ever before. This was what people had been waiting for! Bated breath and bottled-up anticipation, all for this moment! To see which deities they'd get to witness in combat for this momentous occasion. People had favorites; people had high expectations!
Would the choices be popular? Would they be unfavorable? Regardless, the air was filled with energy. It was a privilege, nonetheless.
"As you've already seen…!" Odin spoke loudly, the applause dying down a bit. "In the announcement that was revealed a week prior… 10 deities, myself included, will be stepping foot into the Arena, to face off in the name of victory!"
More applause. More thundering cheers and bellows.
"I'd like to take a moment to give them the recognition they all rightly deserve."
Suddenly, music filled the hall. Grand music, of the kind that the deities were known for, with mighty live instruments, stunning opera-like vocals, a chanting chorus of a thousand souls, all singing their hearts out in unison for the rulers of the mortal plane.
The violins, trumpets, and piano, the orchestral symphony of one's dreams blessing the ears of thousands. Spotlights shined downward on the stage as those who were seated in the Alpha Tester section began to make their way to the front.
"Blessed be this hall! With our first mighty combatant! A mage of astounding ability and flawless judgement…"
Gods and Mortals alike were clapping nonstop.
"Anubis! God… of the Dead!"
The spotlights shined down on the mighty jackal as he made his way to the stage. The applause was deafening. His pantheon was the loudest though. Khepri clapped his massive legs together, Osiris and Eset alongside him. And then there was Neith, who stood up out of her seat and let out the mightiest:
"WOOOOOOOO!"
Ever.
Ra and Thoth shielded their eyes, embarrassed.
Anubis took his place next to the Allfather, summoning his staff and spinning it twice in the air before slamming its end down on the stage, releasing a low grumble as his piercing eyes glowed at the audience.
"Another powerful mage, and one of mighty primordials of the Maya… Kukulkan, Serpent of the Nine Winds!"
The floating serpent hovered his way to the stage, piercing the air, moving like a snake in water, before performing a few loops and spins in the air over the heads of Odin and Anubis. The two Gods looked up, watching as Kukulkan released a mighty roar, sending shockwaves of wind outward and making the entire hall tremble.
Glasses shook and chairs rattled, but it only made the people's applause even louder.
The announcements continued.
"I welcome the Hunters to the front! Anhur, Slayer of Enemies!"
Ra stood this time, watching his son from the distance, his eyes suddenly releasing a blinding light to let the mighty lion know that he was watching, that he recognized him. Anhur arrived at the stage and gave his father a single nod.
Neith was teary-eyed. "Such nobility… such respect among father and son!"
Ra huffed, allowing his mighty eyes to simmer down and return to normal as he sat.
"Cernunnos, The Horned God!"
The Celtic pantheon area was awfully quiet. It was no mystery that there were power struggles within the pantheon. The Morrigan didn't look happy, scowling as the Horned God stood alongside the rest of his peers on-stage. Artio and Chu Chulainn only clapped their hands for a few seconds.
Cliodhna just sat there. One leg crossed over the other. Silent. Eerily silent.
"Next, I invite… the Assassins! My own son…"
The applause was already so loud for this guy.
"Loki, The Trickster God!"
Loki appeared instantly on-stage. Turns out, he had been there the entire time, cloaked. He snatched the microphone from Odin and twirled about, before abruptly bowing and laughing into the mic.
"Thank you, thank you!"
Oh, and the masses swooned. Clapping, cheering, standing from their seats and shouting. As much as the Gods hated Loki, mortals were the opposite.
Odin took the microphone back and pushed Loki back into line with the rest of the Gods.
"Stifle yourself!" he ordered, away from the mic.
Loki put his hands up in surrender, laughing as he took a step back. "Sorry to steal all the spotlight!"
Odin turned and continued, clearing his throat and announcing, "The bastions of our cause! The rocks we lean on! The Guardians!"
"OHHH YEAHHH!" a yell bellowed out.
Bacchus stumbled onto the stage, still as wasted as he was when he first arrived. He threw an arm around Odin and burped into the mic. Laughter erupted through the hall.
"Thank you—thank you!"
"By the Gods, how was he chosen?" Thoth grumbled.
Neith covered her mouth and hid her urge to giggle. "Popularity, I suppose…?"
"Impossible. If that were the case, Cernunnos would not be up there," Ra spat.
"Bitter today, aren't we?!" exclaimed Neith, before shaking her head and focusing back on stage.
Odin forced Bacchus back into line, before turning to the audience and raising a hand in the air to call them all back and kill the abundant laughter.
"I apologize, on his behalf."
Zeus was face-palming, Hera next to him, chuckling.
Bacchus then tried to lean on Anhur for support. But the Slayer had none of it, placing his massive claw on the drunk God's face and shoving him away. Bacchus' body hit the stage with a resounding thud, shaking it slightly.
More laughter spilled out.
"What a disaster!" Neith laughed aloud.
"Everyone knows he gets shit-faced for big events like this! Why invite him?!" Serqet criticized, motioning her jewelry-riddled hands at the stage.
"An embarrassment to the Greeks," sighed Eset.
"Don't be so harsh, Eset…" said Neith from a table over, perching an elbow on its surface and leaning her had on her hand. "This is all in good fun, after all!"
Eset shrugged her shoulders and sipped from the glass of iced water she had requested from the mortal servers. Neith watched her with a smirk.
"On to a more righteous deity!" Odin thundered, the laughter dying down yet again. "Ymir! Father of the Frost Giants!"
The Frost Giant's massive footsteps shook the ground and left behind patches of solid ice wherever he stepped. When he made it onto the stage, he yelled loudly, pure frost firing from his maw.
"Ymir is HERE!" he thundered toward the audience.
And they began to chant the phrase, repeating it over and over, fists in the air and all.
"Human love Ymir! More than you, puny grandpa!" he laughed, holding his unbreakable icy belly as he pointed at Odin.
"Yes, yes… stand back, giant," Odin replied, shoving down his urge to put Ymir in his place in favor of continuing this damned ceremony. "Finally! The mightiest among us…! The Warriors!"
Neith looked to the stage and grinned brightly, feeling her heart ignite with a flaming passion.
"Chaac, God of Rain!"
The applause for Chaac was immense, just as the rest. He was among the stronger and mightier deities of the Mayan pantheon. It was no surprise he'd be among those chosen. With his axe in hand… he took his place on stage.
"And finally! A woman who needs no introduction!"
The audience went absolutely wild with anticipation.
"Poster-child of the Arena! The face of everything violent and mighty!"
Ares grumbled in his seat. "That used to be me…"
Athena placed her hand on her brother's shoulder. "There, there."
"The Roman Goddess of War!"
Some Gods were coming close to covering their ears from how loud the hall was getting. People were going ballistic, standing out of their seats and yelling their hearts out.
Da Ji rolled her eyes.
Pele scoffed to herself.
Ishtar venomously bit her lips.
Discordia hunched up and crossed her arms, nails dug into her skin.
Such jealous Goddesses… and to one, it was ever so thrilling to get to call this Goddess her beloved.
Neith stood from her seat, her eyes starting to glow white, her pearly teeth on display in a wide grin that matched.
"Bellooonaaa!"
Of course, he elongated her name. And the second Odin announced it, the decibel level in the hall reached the highest it had been all evening.
She made her way to the stage, waving to the crowds, flashing smiles and glares at the cameras. Her face showed up on the giant screens and jumbotrons that were set up along the walls of the hall, magnifying her image, catching all her sexy details, and showing them to all.
"YESSS!" Neith cried out, waving her hands in the air. "That's my Bell!"
Once on stage, she walked straight to Odin and the two shook forearms. Then she put her hands on her hips, and they exchanged a few words that couldn't be made out by the microphone, but then, Odin handed her the mic directly. She brought it up to her flawless lips and stepped close to the edge of the stage, before putting her other hand out to Odin.
"And how could we forget!"
The audience was going haywire.
"To return the favor of the one who announced us all! The Allfather himself! Odin, you ancient ol' codger! The tenth Alpha Tester, ladies 'n' gentleworms!" she announced, stepping back his way and placing a hand on his shoulder.
Odin graciously accepted the applause and praise that came with Bellona's announcement.
"But we're not done yet! No, far from! There are still four more of us, who we haven't announced yet! Ten just isn't enough, right?!"
The audience agreed, and loudly. Bellona was a little too good at rousing up the masses. She was sparkling, walking around the stage as she spoke into the mic, her voice booming yet smooth and clear.
"No, four more! Who we want to welcome with us onto this here stage! Let me announce 'em myself!"
The spotlight suddenly flashed onto the Norse Pantheon.
Thor looked up at the light. This was his time. He prepared to stand up and walk to the stage.
"The terrifying and feral beast of the Norse!"
Thor paused. "Wait, what?"
"FENRIR, THE UNBOUND!"
The oversized wolf's ears perked up. He had been munching on a massive ham that Freya had tossed at her feet under the table. Hearing his name, his head spiked up, bashing against the underside of the table and knocking over the glasses that were on it.
"Ahh!" Freya yelped, feeling ice-cold water douse her thighs. "Damned mutt!"
Thor's jaw was wide open, metaphorically on the ground. "WHAT?! HIM?!"
Skadi was laughing her heart out. "You should see the look on your face, Thunderboy!"
Fenrir made eye contact with Bellona, who gritted her teeth and ushered him on with a sweep of her hand.
"Get on up here!"
And Fenrir didn't hesitate. His dark gray coat of fur suddenly got spiky and furrowed, like he had just been electrocuted, or aggressively pet. As this happened, his eyes began to glow orange, same with his maw, which soon began to spill flames like drool.
Abruptly, flaming runes emerged from beneath his fur. His hind legs glowed, his claws surged with heat, and Fenrir bounded from where he had been resting clean over the heads of dozens of Gods, soaring through the air with a mighty leap, and landing right on the stage before Bellona with a fiery thud, sending out a cloud of ash and heat.
His claws dug into the stage, leaving behind flaming, orange-glowing marks as he skid to a stop, growling, holding back roars, teeth bound at the war Goddess.
Bellona grinned, her sharp canines showing themselves off too, nothing compared to Fenrir's, but alas, they were there to match his energy.
"Welcome aboard…" she said, curling a fist.
Fenrir suddenly shot forward, his flaming maw opening wide, his razor, jagged teeth primed and ready. Bellona shot her arm forward, catching his bite on the spiked vambrace that armored her forearm.
The crowd went wild yet again.
Bellona chuckled. "Save it for the Battleground, Fenrir!"
Standing on his hind legs, Fenrir released Bellona's arm and stepped back, snarling. "I'll sink my teeth into you yet," he growled.
Bellona scoffed, motioning with her head at the rest of the Gods behind her. "Go on."
Fenrir begrudgingly took his place with the others as Bellona continued announcing the rest of those who'd join the first group of testers.
The next two were no surprise. Bellona announced them with the grand display they deserved, as the ideal father and daughter duo.
Zeus and Athena stood before the Goddess of War, behind them, the blinding flashes of dozens of cameras taking photos of the stage and all the deities that stood upon it.
"Prepared to make Olympus proud…?" she asked.
"This will be no different from the original Battleground. My thunder strikes true," Zeus boasted, before turning over to the massive hall full of mortals that were calling for his name.
He slowly raised his arms up into the air, hands open, palms up. Electricity suddenly began to crackle in them, coalescing into two massive thunderbolts that he held onto tightly. He released a mighty shout, the lights of the stage and hall shining brighter than ever before as he sent all nearby electronics into overcharge.
People felt their skin tingle, their hair stand on edge with raw static electricity. Their phones became 200% charged, the lights were blazing bright, and the speakers that played music became riddled with static, distorting the sound momentarily.
The other deities in the stands were unamused. Zeus was always such a showboat. Eager to show the mortals that he still believed he was the greatest God of them all.
"You see?" Yu Huang said to the woman next to him.
"Shh…" Nu Wa replied.
In the Hindu area, Agni and Bakasura were fuming at the display.
"What I'd give to burn that beard into ashes…" Agni flamed.
"To bite his old throat out…" Bakasura growled.
"Patience, friends," Rama intervened. "Good things come to those who wait."
Vamana was side-eyeing him. But he ultimately agreed, a small smirk on his face.
Back on stage, Athena and Bellona stood face to face.
"What'd I tell you? I knew you'd be selected over Ares," Bellona grinned, grasping onto Athena's forearm.
"My intuition told me so. I simply didn't want to appear arrogant. And maybe, give my dearest brother the benefit of the doubt," smiled Athena, turning her head over to the audience and making direct eye contact with Ares.
Who was struggling to contain his anger in his seat. He was trembling, his hands clawing into his own skin, teeth gnashing together behind his helmet.
His mother placed her hand on his shoulder pauldron, lightly patting it. "There, there. You're still the second-best choice.
That didn't help Ares' rage… at all.
Athena turned back to Bellona. "Looks like we'll be fighting together after all."
"I never doubted it."
And finally, came the time to announce the fourteenth and final Alpha-tester. The audience was so close to having their full roster. And to some, it was no mystery who was going to be chosen. But still, that confirmation, reaffirmation, was still needed.
Neith was boiling where she sat, her heart going a few beats faster than she was comfortable with.
One more slot. So many popular and iconic choices.
Ra, Guan Yu, Thor.
But the more and more she thought about it, who else would they choose? They wouldn't choose another Warrior God; they had three already. Three Guardians and Mages each, too. That ruled out Ra and Guan Yu.
But they only had 2 Assassins and 2 Hunters. They could fit one more, so they'd have to choose to add one more of each.
It was between a popular Assassin, or a popular Hunter. More names rushed into Neith's head. Aside from Thor being the most obvious choice, there was Thanatos and Nemesis, who were both also highly popular. Maybe Ratatoskr and Susano stood as runner-ups.
When it came to Hunters, there were so many, though! Artemis, Cupid, Medusa! Big names like that came up instantly, so maybe… there was a chance they'd be selected instead of her.
Neith breathed a sigh of relief, looking down at her legs and squeezing them together in her seat. She closed her eyes and momentarily fell into a swirl of her own thoughts, tuning out the world around her. Was she seriously hoping that she wouldn't get selected? Was she this disinterested in participating? The only things she could even think of were going back home and… cuddling with Bellona.
But no. Bell would be busy fighting nonstop, competing, as she should be. As any God would be happy to. She felt like such an outlier. Somebody who didn't wish to always be engaged in combat, who didn't go out of their way to seek glory, triumph, attention and fame. She had always just… had it, without ever really doing anything extraordinary.
Except maybe looking attractive.
She felt ashamed. So many of her fellow immortals would give anything to have a spot as an Alpha-tester. A chance to gain new worshippers, to grow their popularity, to show off their mettle and strength to the world and spread their influence and name. And instead, if she were to be given this last spot… she wouldn't even be able to fully appreciate it.
Her heart just wasn't going to let her. Maybe she would, though. Just to please the millions of mortals who admired and looked up to her. She'd do it for them. Ever so rarely… did she ever find herself doing anything for… herself. Odd sentence for her to think of. But it was true.
All of a sudden… the world seemed to explode with sound, making her jump. She gasped, looking up and taking in as much air as she could to try and stabilize her startled heart, eyes wide as she looked around.
"Huh—"
Then, a blinding light bore down on her, bathing her in white. Her clothing glistened, her skin glowed, her hair shimmered, her gemstones and jewelry sparkled. Neith flinched, closing her eyes and shielding herself from the light with her hands, before slowly opening her eyes back up and trying to squint through the brightness.
The hall was filled with applause, thundering applause. The sound of millions… all cheering, chanting, and pouring their hearts out… for none other than her.
Neith looked around at her fellow deities. And they were all staring at her. Her eyes met Ra's, and even he was clapping his hands, before slowly pausing.
"It was never truly in question, was it, Weaver?"
"I—I uh…" Neith stammered, before looking down at the stage.
Everybody was staring at her. All cameras aimed to her face, showing off her shock on all the large screens and jumbotrons. But the applause didn't stop. It wasn't until she heard a familiar voice call out to her over the dozens of high-powered speakers, did she start to move.
"Come on down here, beautiful! Where you belong, with me!"
It was Bellona. And Neith instinctively stood up, her hand gently setting itself over her own heart.
She had been chosen. The final fourteen alpha-tester.
Of course.
Neith hadn't been ready, but that didn't matter. People loved her anyway, and thought her reaction was adorable and candid. But nonetheless, she had to look grateful. So, she swallowed her worries and took in a deep breath, before finally showing her flawless smile to the world. Everything about her was perfect as she made her way to the front.
Her strut, her body, her hair, her clothing, her confidence, those galactic eyes, her flawless tanned skin, and sharp features. A woman nobody would dare deny, ever.
And especially not the Arena. The battleground called for her. It always did.
She came face to face with Bellona, who had no idea the pain she was hiding behind her deep blue eyes of pure sapphire.
"Welcome aboard," Bellona grinned.
Neith could only nod her head. Over the sound of the masses and their cheers, she humbly muttered,
"Thank you."