Authors note
Chapter six, the weapon i give superman is taken from the story Kal son of Odin, check it out
there had been several weeks since the Tournament of Titans and whilst the public celebrations had ended, the private ones were still in full swing.
Thor was celebrating in Glitnir alongside his brothers, his closet friends and the several other dozen individuals that he had also invited to share in his victory. Asgard's newest champion was currently drunk and standing on a table before the cheering sea of faces, lifting his cup before them.
To Asgard! To my father! To Glory Each one of Thor's drunken toasts was met by an equally drunken cheer from the crowd.
TO THOR! Champion of Asgard! Volstagg roared before downing his cup and collapsing backwards due to his intoxication.
The room was silent for a moment before Thor raised his own cup and roared his agreement causing the crowd to again cheer and return to their drinking.
As Thor lowered his cup, he observed the hall around him spotting his beloved brothers and dear friends, joy-filled his heart at knowing he had such good and faithful companions in life. He drained another cup that he picked up as he jumped off the table, wincing slightly as his ribs were still sore even after weeks of healing.
Thor saw Hogun sitting next to the collapsed Volstagg quietly sipping his drink whilst shaking his head at his friend's drunken state.
The other member of the trio Fandral was currently surrounded by half a dozen women of varying backgrounds from serving girls to highborn ladies, all of whom were enraptured by the golden-haired warrior.
Then I jumped down and said, 'Well this isn't the feasting hall" Fandral's tale caused an explosion of giggles from the girls surrounding him, several of whom took the opportunity to lean forward to touch Fandral during their giggles.
Thor smiled at Fandral's action 'He is almost as good with the maidens as I am, almost' Thor thought to himself with a smirk. To prove his point, he merely winked at a small group of maidens he was passing, all of whom blushed and started giggling with one actually swooning.
Thor almost went over to the group deciding that if a mere wink would provide such a reaction his own presence would get him much further but was distracted by a very unusual sight and sound.
Namely, Lady Sif laughing.
Thor was grinning as he observed his closest friend having actual fun, she was sitting next to Kal's friend Haldor, and it was clear the two were very drunk. The usually shy Haldor had a confident grin on his face and was leaning into Sif's ear whispering something that was causing Sif to laugh and slap Haldor playfully on the chest.
Oh, you are so bad, Sif stated in a drunken slur her face red from blushing and drinking.
I try Balder replied in his own drunken confidence a grin plastered on his face.
Turning from the drunken pair, Thor saw Loki who was sitting in front of a makeshift group that was listening to one of his brother's fanciful tales. Thor almost suppressed a groan hoping that Loki's tale was not too outlandish and was thankful they were not on Midgard, the mortals there believed anything Loki said.
Looking at the group he also noticed the sisters Amora and Lorelai both of whom were in the group Loki was regaling but neither were really listening.
Lorelai kept turning slightly, glancing at Sif and Balder, she had a look on her face that Thor in his drunken state could not discern but a part of him found it troubling. He then turned to look at her stunning sister Amora who was sitting next to Loki.
Amora was clearly sober and not interested in Loki's tale, a bored looked fixed on her face which was replaced by a flirtatious smile when she met Thor's eye, she even leaned forward to give him a better view down her -.
He quickly turned away, even in his drunken state he knew that was not a good idea. Despite what other parts of him were saying. He looked around for a distraction and instead saw someone that could use his company.
His little brother Kal was sitting at a table quietly sipping his drink and a strained smile on his face as he made small talk to the woman sitting next to him. The woman in question was the Lady Sigyn who was elegantly sipping mead out of a small cup as she sat next to Kal, the picture of grace and class even in this drunken setting.
Thor sighed and moved to save his little brother, loudly calling to them as he approached Brother! Sigyn!
Sigyn head turned elegantly, and a small polite smile graced her face as she bowed her head to her prince Your highness.
Kal's face was a picture of relief at the sight of someone coming to talk to them, with Kal rapidly standing to talk to Thor.
Thor! Um, we needed to talk right about you know that thing. In private! Kal stated hurriedly almost leaping over the table to stand next to Thor.
Oh, um yes of course. Thor quickly agreed with his little brother and tried to look as honest as he could.
Forgive me, Sigyn this might take some time. You might want to retire for the night. Kal's face was plastered with a forced smile.
I am fine to wait my prince, for your return. She gave a gentle regal bow of her head.
Of course, you are, Kal whispered resignedly as he pulled Thor away.
Once they were away from Sigyn, Kal picked up an entire flagon of mead and drained it one go. Thank you, brother, for the recuse.
Oh, come now, it cannot be that bad. Sigyn is a fine maiden. Thor laughed and gestured at the partly obscured Sigyn who was still seated with sophistication and grace.
Oh, it is. I mean she is great and beautiful but so dull, it is all duty, responsibility with her. There is ZERO spontaneity with her. I feel like I'm constantly at one of mother's dammed feasts Kal bemoaned draining even more alcohol into as he talks.
Thor merely laughed at his brother's predicament, thankful that his mother had yet to try and play matchmaker for him. All she ever did was encourage him to spend time with Sif, which was fine, the two just sparred.
It's not funny It's not funny
Oh, it is brother very much, Thor stated between fits of laughter.
Everywhere I go she is there, and I can't tell her to go away because of mother. I need to get off Asgard. Kal bemoaned in a whisper as to ensure they would not be overheard.
Unfortunately, I cannot help with leaving Asgard but I do have a solution to your current situation, Thor stated whilst slapping his brother on the back.
Which is? Kal asked in equal parts hope and scepticism.
Thor simply grabbed two whole flagons from a table next to him and shoved one into Kal's hand. Grinning as he down his in one go.
Kal sighed, deciding to trust Thor, he proceeded to down his own. It was the last clear thing he could remember of the night.
Kal woke with a hammering in his head that he had never had before nor ever wished to experience again. It was like the dwarves of Nidavellir were in his skull with little hammers, attacking his brain.
Morning my Prince. Sigyn's voice was clear next to him.
Kal's eyes suddenly flung open, his hangover forgotten, and he turned with all his speed to face Sigyn. He thanked the Allfathers that she was standing next to his bed instead of being in it and was fully dressed.
However, her presence still caused him confusion, as he turned to face her, he suddenly noticed that the room was not his own and that the bed he was in was not his bed.
Uh Sigyn, uh where am I? Kal started trying to clear his head, whilst gripping the sheet tightly around him.
"You are in my room, my prince. After the celebration, you wished to see where I lived, and once your arrived asked to see my room and then proceeded to fall asleep on my bed." Sigyn stated in her usual refined manner, whilst setting a tray before him.
I have also brought you something to eat and drink, my prince She gave a small bow of her head as stepped back.
Kal remembered something about asking to see where she lived, and if he recalled his own reasoning for wanting to see it was not flattering.
'Something vaguely in his head about how he wanted to know what place raised a joyless, frigid, emotionless, bi-.' Kal cut off his own thoughts slightly ashamed of himself for his behaviour.
He had fortunately not said anything of that sort to Sigyn or her parents that he vaguely remembered meeting, who had been kind enough to escort a rather drunken Kal on a tour of the home. As loyal servants of the crown, they had thought it an honour for Kal to be in their home regardless of his state.
Thank you, and just call me Kal, please. He stated as he drank the concoction that Sigyn had brought and was surprised that it greatly helped with his headache.
As you wish, my pri-, Kal. I will leave you to get sorted, also this arrived for you whilst you slept. Sigyn smiled softly and bowed her head, as she departed the room, leaving behind a small letter.
Kal ignored the food and letter for the moment instead drinking the last of the hangover-curing elixir, he then rose from the bed and was thankful that he appeared to be mostly clothed the only missing piece of clothing appearing to be his shirt.
He quickly located the missing garment that had been flung across the room, it was crumpled against the far wall. As he walked over, he passed across the ray of sunshine that was seeping in through the half-drawn blinds.
He stopped as the light hit him, feeling the familiar draw he always had to the golden rays. Allowing his skin to absorb the radiant rays he felt his hangover clear, and the sluggishness of his mind disappear, along with hunger that had been present.
Kal stood for a few moments more but finally pulled himself from the intoxicating experience and returned his shirt to its rightful place.
Now correctly dressed Kal moved back to the bed, he took his time to examine Sigyn's room, it was exactly as he pictured it. Formal, clean, tidy, and filled with everything one would imagine a highborn lady would have.
Kal was honestly a little disappointed and had hoped that Sigyn's room might show him a different side to the woman but alas it did not. It was almost puritanical to Kal's mind.
Returning to the bed he picked up the letter:
Dear Kal,
Your presence is required at the palace at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely
Mother.
P.S. Please thank Lady Sigyn and her parents for allowing you to spend the night.
Kal silently cursed, he had hoped to hide his departure from the palace or at least where he had spent the night, he was not looking forward to the conversation that was waiting for him. He moved towards the bedroom door and quickly descended the stairs.
He was greeted by the sight of Sigyn and her parents sitting around their hearth, all of them rose as one and gave Kal either a bow or a curtsy.
Uhh, was all Kal could manage as his eyes passed back and forth between Sigyn and her parents unsure how to address his drunken night spent in their house or that he did so in their daughter's bedroom.
I hope your highness had a restful night sleep. Sigyn's mother addressed him, she spoke just like her daughter her voice filled with formality and duty.
I did thank you. Um, I don't wish to seem ungrateful, and I am very grateful for the hospitality, but I am needed at the palace. Kal said whilst he tried to avoid eye contact with anyone.
Of course, your highness. It was an honour to host a member of the royal family. Sigyn mother's words were given in a formal tone along with a deep curtesy.
Kal was unsure how to respond but Sigyn provided him with an exit by quickly walking over to him.
I will see you out, your highness Sigyn stated, quickly escorting Kal outside to a waiting steed.
Once outside Kal turned to face Sigyn, releasing a deep sigh and a slightly embarrassed look passing over his face.
I just wanted to apologise for anything I might have said or d- Kal began to apologise but was cut off by Sigyn raising her hand.
Like my mother said it was an honour and you acted most honourably. She said formally before a slight smile graced her face. You know for a drunken failing child.
Kal almost laughed at that pleasantly surprised by Sigyn's ability to tell a joke.
Well thank you, I will let my parents know about your gracious hospitality. Until we meet again Lady Sigyn Kal provided a small bow of his head.
You are welcome, my pri-, Kal. Sigyn gave a small smile and a curtesy before returning to her family's home.
Kal smiled at that before turning back to the outside world and suddenly a crucial realisation overcame him as he took in the grand estate before him.
'Where in the name of Valhalla am I?'
It took Kal a lot longer than he wished to return to the Palace, midday had already passed by the time he walked into the royal wing of the Palace.
His mother was there to greet him, having a small meal with several of her ladies who were ideally chatting away as he tried to slip in.
Ah, there you are my son. Ladies, please excuse me. Frigga rose and glided over to Kal, who was doing his best to seem innocent.
Mother, you are looking lovely today. Kal flattered whilst giving his best innocent smile.
Frigga merely sighed and shook her head slightly My darling boy what am I going doing with you. Please tell me that you didn't do anything …. Dishonourable whilst with Sigyn.
Kal's face went red hot Mother, no! Of course not.
Oh, thank the fates. Because that was a conversation I did not want to have with your father. Frigga sent up a small thank you to the fates.
So, father doesn't know? Kal asked with a little apprehension and a lot of hope.
Well, he knows you didn't sleep in the palace, but I don't see the need to bother him with the particulars. AS long as it doesn't happen again, AND that you invite Sigyn as your guest to the next feast. The look on her face told Kal that this was not up for debate.
Kal swallowed deeply and gave a quick nod to agree to his mother's terms,
Good, now come we are late. Frigga gave a smile and turned quickly walking out the royal quarters, forcing Kal to quickly follow.
Late? Late for what? Kal asked as he reached his mother's side.
Well, if you had been here, you would know. Now come your Father has waited for you before starting. Frigga picked up the pace but still moved with grace and elegance.
Their destination was revealed to be his father's private study, the great doors flanked by two elite guards flung open as they approached allowing the pair to enter.
Kal's eyes quickly spotted Thor who was in much better shape than Kal thought he would have been, Thor looked no worse for wear despite the nights of heavy drinking. He stood tall and proud wearing his finest robes, a fact that made Kal wish he could have changed his clothes.
Loki however looked like a strong breeze would knock him over. His hair was a mess, his eyes were bloodshot, Kal was pretty sure that like him Loki was wearing the same clothes as the night before and Loki's eyes kept closing as he tried to stay awake.
Kal slipped in to stand next to Loki so that he, Loki and Thor stood in a line before their father who was joined by Frigga.
Odin gave a small, concerned look at his sons and then glanced at Frigga, who must have conveyed some message in her look that Kal could not see with her back turned as Odin merely straightened to his full height and returned to his usual stoic regal self.
My son's. Know that I am proud of all that you have accomplished, that is why today I have decided that each of you shall receive a companion. Odin's statement caused immediate reactions.
Thor looked alarmed his eyes bugling wide, Kal spluttered out a cough in disbelief and Loki suddenly turned pale and very sober. Their reactions Frigga to smile and shake her head slightly.
What your father means is a companion in battle, today if you desire it, you shall receive a weapon. Frigga clarified.
Thor's look of alarm turned to one of enthusiasm and relief, in his joy he slapped Loki on his back causing his brother to stumble slightly. Kal recovered too but was looking more intrigued than enthusiastic. Whilst Loki now slightly more awake just looked bored, weapons rarely interested him he preferred magic to physical arms.
Truly? Thor asked his eyes glinting with anticipation.
Yes, my son. Remember though that the weapon you receive is merely a tool, a warrior's true strength is in his mind and his heart. Odin looked at each of his sons with deep solemn eyes.
Kal suddenly felt like a little boy again standing in front of his parents when they gave him and his brothers one of their grand lessons as he called them. They were always on the same theme duty, responsibility and respecting the power that they each possessed as princes of Asgard.
Now, Thor as the eldest we shall begin with you Odin's voice was a mixture of both seriousness and pride, gesturing for Thor to come forward.
Thor stepped forward and to Kal's eye his eldest brother stood taller at that moment, Thor's shoulder became squarer, and he stood straighter. Even though there was less than a half a foot difference between them Thor in that moment seemed to tower over Kal.
I shall try to do my best to honour you and mother, Thor said proudly.
Of that, I have no doubt. Now, for you my son, I have decided that an old weapon will be your companion and the focus of your great strength. Odin stepped to his side revealing a table behind him.
On that table was a large Axe with a large main swing side and a sharp point at the back, a slightly curved handle and a wickedly sharp edge
This my son is the axe Jarnbjorn it is enchanted to cut through anything and can channel the power of storms that flow in your blood Odin spoke
Thor stretched his arm out and lightning dance between his fingers and Jarnbjorn as it rocketed into his hand
For you Loki, whilst these are not as powerful as Mjolnir they are no less special. Frigga handed the box to Loki.
Who looked down at the offered item with an inquisitive gaze, he opened the box a little sharply and pulled out the contents within.
It was a pair of very sharp ornate daggers, Loki took them out and gave them a twirl in his hands, along with a few practice cuts. Loki's eye was clearly sceptical to the worth of the blades, he ran a gloved hand along one edge to judge its sharpness.
These my son were once mine; they were a gift from my brother Freyr, and they have a great capacity for mag- Frigga began to explain the value of the blades to Loki.
However, whilst she did so Kal's hearing of their mother's explanation was cut off, a noise started to sound in his ears, unlike any he had ever heard before. It was like a siren's song that only Kal could hear that drowned out everything else.
As the rest of his family talked Kal was drawn to a nearby table, he did not know why but he felt something on it was calling to him. Whilst the table was full of items and papers, Kal immediately knew what he was after.
It was a black crystalline pendant, it was slightly difficult to make out the crest upon its top as it slowly rotated was suspended in the air by magic for study.
Kal did not know why but the pendant felt familiar like a forgotten memory, he reached out his hand and as his finger just graced it, he saw flashed within his mind. A strange people, a massive city, a man, and women in a tight embrace, that were trying to say something he could not hear.
Kal!
The images ended as Kal pulled back his hand, his father was next to him a hand on his shoulder pulling his son back from the table.
Sorry father, it was like it was calling to me. What is it? Kal's eyes lingered on the pendant even now it called to him.
Nothing you need concern yourself with, my son. It is merely a relic of people long since passed. Odin statement was given with a reassuring smile.
Kal merely nodded, accepting his father's words as he always did and moved away from the table back towards his brother who were both examining their new weapons. Kal was trying to shake the images from his mind, missing the brief concerned look that passed between his parents.
Now, Kal it is your turn. This weapon I and your mother had newly forged for you by the dwarves of Nidavellir. This, my son, is the sword, Gramr. Odin gestured to the table that had held Mjolnir.
Laying on the table now was a beautiful work of craftsmanship, it was a double-edged sword just over a meter in length, with a deep red leather grip, along with a golden cross-guard and pommel. The pommel head was crafted in the shape of a dragon's head and as Kal looked closely he could see runes carved down the length of the blades fuller.
Like Thor before him, Kal's hand hovered over the hilt he was hesitant to take up the blade, it looked so perfect the light glinting off it just right making the smooth silver coloured metal almost appear as if the blade was glowing.
After a few moments, Kal finally gripped the handle which caused him to wince slightly, the handle was hot, very hot almost so much that it nearly caused him to drop the blade. As he held firm, he saw the blade itself starting to glow slightly and felt a strange rush of heat flow from the blade to the handle then up his hand into his body.
It took a few moments, but he was starting to adjust to the heat of the blade, where at first it had been uncomfortable almost painful it was now like holding his hand in front of an open fire, warm and comforting yet still with a hint of danger.
"It's warm," Kal stated looking over to his parent, seeing a proud smile on both their faces.
"That is because you are holding the power of a star in your hand my son." Odin's explanation caused Kal's eyes to widen and then re-examine the blade.
"Like Thor, you draw your strength from the cosmos itself. However, where he gains his power from lightning and storms, you gain yours from the stars themselves, the heat and light they provide flow through you." Frigga gave her youngest a soft smile and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder as she stood next to him.
Kal blinked at his mother's revelation, although he supposed it was sort of obvious Kal had always been stronger in the daytime and when the golden rays of Asgard's stars were on him, he felt not only powerful but calmer too.
"This blade will strengthen you, my son, the dwarves entrapped a newly formed star was within the blade and craved powerful enchantments upon it," Odin spoke solemnly and placed his own hand on Kal's shoulder.
An act that caused his Kal to look away from the blade and stare into his father ancient eyes.
"This blade burns aways falsehoods and corruptions, whilst you hold it none my control you but yourself as long as you remain true. Gram requires great strength to wield my son, but beware unlike Mjolnir Gram can only destroy, be it falsehoods or flesh, so when you draw it be certain that you must use it." Odin gaze conveyed the seriousness of his statement to Kal.
"I will father." Kal nodded slowly.
"Well then, all I can say is that we are proud of you. Remember these are not toys but tools, weapons use them responsibly." Odin looked at Thor most of all.
The trio of princes all nodded their agreement as each of them were still studying the new weapons they had received.
"Of course, father, we will be the very model of responsibility," Thor stated with a wide grin.
Authors note
That is chapter 6 next up we will go to earth