And we are back with chapter 14! We last left off with the Asgardians being saved by the man they were looking for; Leif Eirkson!
Emerald: Those Devils sure are stupid! They are causing more problems than good!
Battlefield: Hopefully he'll get to do something before this arc is over
Valtazar: I doubt Thor and Cadmus can do much against him. One has no magic and the other is a just a solider of Asgard but lets see.
Alpha Mallus: Out of all Five Nobles Balog Vassago is without a doubt the lowest of the low of them. He may not kidnap nuns like Diadora but killing a fellow Devil and putting the blame on Rossweisse is just as bad.
Black Paladine: At least they managed to escape both Exorcists and Devils. For now...
Xenomorph: Your right, Xenomorph. The Gremory family and Rias may be kind but one kind Devil will not be enough to convince the God of Thunder to fully trust the Devils. May take longer than that for others maybe.
Some1call4MR-E: Ah I was wondering when you would return. Chapter 12: They lost a week but I'm sure they will get this solved soon. Chapter 13: Well even the new generation was raised in the old ways. Look how slimy Diadora was and he was part of the next generation.
Feral: I wouldn't put it past Cadmus wanting to avenge Odina Blackhorse despite only knowing her for a few seconds. But a mere solider of Asgard is gonna need more than just a shield and spear to defeat Devil as powerful as Balog.
Nazgul60: First they'll need to speak with the Natives to get more questions answered.
Chapter 14
Rollo dodged and sliced each spell aimed at him; his holy axes, specially made for his family by the Church, were not on par with the Excalibur fragments but they were useful nonetheless. He would be sure to bury them into Balog Vassago's head for his atrocities today. After meeting the Asgardians, Father Rollo had been suspicious about their story and had then followed the next day to Central Park were the Paimon Peerage trapped, fought, and lost to them. When hearing of that the Viking turned Exorcists put the Church on high alert and ready for battle against the Devils. When his spies told him about a barrier being erected he gathered his forces before cutting an opening into the barrier and attacking the Paimon and Vassago Peerages.
The fact that the Devils were attacking Asgard twice, this time in broad daylight with humans caught up in it, said Asgard was in New York for something else. What it was he did not know but once he drove these villains away he would find them and ask them why they truly were here. He spotted Balog and rushed the horned Devil, hoping this time he would finally cut off his head and mount it as a trophy on his wall.
"Balog!"
The horned Devil was quick to respond to Rollo yelling his name, a blue magic barrier blocked the holy weapons but two swift strikes shattered it easily. The barrier, however, delayed the experienced warrior enough for Balog to create a sword made out of fire and exchange swift strikes.
"You always were a thorn in our side, Rollo!" Vassago sneered.
"And so were you to us! Your actions today have given me a good excuse to take your head!"
If Balog was expecting to kill the Exorcists he was wrong, their duel lasted for a few minutes before the duel wielding warrior broke off and soon was fleeing with what remained of his warriors. Confusion and anger filled the fiery Devil but let him go on the orders of Paimon who, he realized, was glaring at him.
"Do you realize how much we will have to cover up because of your incompetence!?" He said waving his hands around at the damaged buildings, "You rushed in without telling me about Odina and in plain sight of humans! Humans! You are very lucky Agothdorzen's Peerage using illusion and hypnosis magic to hide the barrier and keep other humans away. What will we do with those trapped inside the barrier!?"
Balog shrugged, "Turn them into servants or kill them. Either one doesn't bother me."
Sarroxan felt his hand twitch, he wanted to punch this hot headed man so much but he had to keep his calm. He had to act like the gentleman he was raised to be. Letting a deep breath out he said, "We are not doing either of those. Erase their memories and repair the damage you caused. We can replenish our Peerages after we find Fafnir's treasure. You are lucky Agothdorzen saved us the trouble in capturing the Asgardians."
Just then a magic seal with the Sollas sigil appeared next to his ear and what Agothdorzen said lit a raging inferno inside the tobacco addicted Devil.
Outskirts of Asgard
Thor's jaw went slack. Standing before them was the very man they were looking for and he just saved them. Heimdall was right in foreseeing them meeting Leif Eirkson in New York but how did he know were to find them?
"You are Leif Eirkson?" Said Rota, "We have been looking all over New York for you."
One thin eyebrow rose slightly, "Have you now?"
"Yes." She said and would have explained everything but a groan of pain from Rossweisse stopped her.
"Oh dear. You all need medical attention before you tell me why you were looking for me."
"You're telling me." Said Camdus, winning at the shape Rossweisse was in, "I thought she was going to be burned away like Odina."
"Valkyrie armor has defense seals embedded into them to minimize damage but it couldn't hold back everything." Grunted Rossweisse before asking Leif, "Do you know any healing magic?"
"No, but I do know some friends who can." The old traveler said, then tapping his cane again the Asgardians found themselves in what looked to be a nurse office in a school but had dream catchers with feathers on them. There was a human sized totem with the face of a hawk above the face of a man carved into it set next to a desk and at the desk was a short plump but kindly faced woman wearing a cowboy hat over her long braided black hair, "Cheyenne, we have some visitors who need healing."
"Goodness, Leif, what happened to them?" Cheyenne asked not hesitating one bit that they were foreigners.
"These visitors from Asgard were attacked by the Five Nobles of New York." The old man answered.
Cheyenne tutted, "What reason did they have to attack them?"
"We were looking for Eirkson for something important."
"Are you now? Does it involve Norse stuff?"
"In a sense, yes but also the Seneca Tribe."
Cheyenne blinked as she began healing Sigrun, "The Seneca Tribe? Goodness gracious, this sounds like something should speak with the elders of the Six Nations Of The Grand River."
"Six nations?" Repeated Thor.
"Yes, six. Six native tribes live here, including the Seneca." Answered the healer, "When you are fully healed I recommend resting before meeting them."
"I will speak with the elders and see what they say."
When the last of the Asgardians were healed they were given a tour around the Six Nations Of The Grand River reservation were many Seneca people who are connected to the Supernatural World live. When asked why Leif was living here she said they should ask the Einherjar himself. Eventually they were shown to a group of five large teepees, each one for them, were they could rest. Eventually Leif arrived saying the tribe leaders will meet with them tonight after the pow wow feast.
"And also," He added as they sat on the bench outside the teepees, "Any questions you have will be answered there. Only those connected to the Supernatural world will attend."
"But we have so much we want to ask you." Said Thor.
"Again, any question will be answered at the pow wow." Repeated Leif and left before saying, "For now, rest and eat. You had quite a fight with the Five Nobles."
"No kidding." Muttered Cadmus, "We were fighting those Devils since yesterday. I just want to relax before we continue the hunt."
"Speaking of which," Said Sigrun the Emerald Valkyrie, her usual stern look cast at Cadmus was now genuine, "You know the saying; actions speak louder than words and your recent actions have done just that. You helped us in the library. You discovered Leif Eirkson and suggested we look for him. You even helped fight the Devils and saved us in our recent battle. If you hadn't thrown that spear, Leif may not have been able to seal that Devil. Rota once said that we should give you a second chance and, even though it will take time, I am willing to do that."
Rota was beaming, "Oh hooray!"
Sigrun smiled, "I said it will take time, Rota, but he has taken his first steps in doing so. If we face those Devils again or the Church then I will be glad to have you by my side, Einherjar Cadmus."
"Thank you." The Greek boy gave his own smile to the violet haired beauty before bowing, "I am sorry for my behaviour and harsh words to you all. Especially to you Ro - eh? Where is Rossweisse?"
Rota raised a brow, "You didn't realize she wasn't among us all this time? She's still resting in her teepee."
"Why?" Asked Thor.
"Why?" Blinked Rota, "Thor, she fought a lot of Devils at the same time and was falsely accused of murdering a Devil. She was healed physically but still mentally hurt. No, let her rest." She added when Thor moved toward the teepee she was in.
"But-"
"Let her rest." Repeated Rota, "We all should rest."
"I think I will go explore the reserve. I want to learn about the six nations." Said Cadmus.
"I'll come with you!" Rota said eagerly.
"I'm going to take a nap." Sigrun said heading back to her own teepee leaving Thor alone.
When he was sure nobody was around Thor went to Rossweisse's teepee, sure Sigrun said to let her rest but knowing Odin's bodyguard she would be wide awake ready to get the treasure hunt going again. As he reached for the zipper he could hear movement inside and he hesitated as he wondered if she was getting dressed. He would hate for Rossweisse to call him a pervert.
"Rossweisse, are you decent?" He asked in a low voice.
"Yes." Came the woman's voice.
Pulling the flap aside Thor stepped inside but stopped short at whatever he was going to say. The Valkyrie was sitting on her bed dressed only in the black leotard and thigh-high stockings worn underneath her armor which was laying next to her. In her left hand was the gauntlet worn over it and in her right was a wet rag to clean the scuffing.
"I thought you said you were decent?" He said dumbly.
"It-It's ok. I don't mind." The silver haired woman replied, a bit of a sutter was in her tone, "This is part of my armor after all. Speaking of which, can you help me clean it? It's going to take all day and night to get all the scuffs off."
Thor stood there in silence, for a moment he couldn't stop his eyes from roaming over her body. He saw her wearing the armor many times but in just the leotard and stockings it felt different, more revealing. Her long arms, wipe hips, and thick thighs never looked more captivating than before.
"Can you help me?" She repeated, offering the rag she was using.
"Oh, of course." He said, taking the rag and a hip guard from the bed before sitting next to her and rubbing the scuff mark away. He couldn't keep himself from glancing at her thighs whenever she adjusted herself. They looked so captivating.
"Are you alright?"
The question brought Thor's eyes up to meet hers, concern filled the green orbs.
"Am I alright?" He repeated.
"You lost your powers making you unable to help us in our recent battles."
"Yes, I am alright." Thor slumped his shoulder, "But you are not. Those Devils blamed you for murdering one of their own to gain the upperhand on you. Not only have they blamed you for a false accusation but murdered many innocent bystanders to try and attack us. They are not worthy to be our allies." He clenched his fists, "If I still had my powers I could have been able to help turn the tide of battle.
"I agree." Was all Rossweisse said after finishing her gauntlet before grabbing her breastplate to clean it next. "They have caused us much trouble and quite possibly reveal what we are to the human world. There will be talk of those who were murdered at the battle unless the entire continent has its memory altered."
"A task those Satan's shouldn't have a problem handling if they ever hear of this." Thor mumbled, "How could they kill those humans? How could they stoop to such cruelty? If they were smart they would have followed us to the treasure without drawing attention to themselves."
"Cadmus said he heard Paimon say he wanted to watch and wait but Vassago messed it up." Said Rossweisse, "I think he is desperate to get Fafnir's treasure before everyone else. I'm certain even if we find and claim it as our own they, or rather Vassago, still will try to fight us for it."
"Then we kill him. We kill them all if we must." Said Thor in a matter of fact tone, "They started this and we will finish it. What Vassago has done was unforgivable, That girl who warned Cadmus, Odina. If it wasn't for her telling us to escape the city we still would have Devils and Exorcists trying to kill us all over New York. We shouldn't forget what she did for us."
"I'm certain Cadmus feels the same way."
"Cadmus really is trying to turn over a new leaf isn't he?" Said Thor, grabbing another piece of armor to clean, "Maybe Sigrun is right. Maybe we should give him a second chance? He apologized for his actions and has done much to help us."
"He has but like Sigrun said it will take time. It starts with saying sorry but he will need to do more if he is to gain our trust fully back."
They spent the rest of the time cleaning the armor in silence until the last piece was cleaned and Rossweisse, with Thor's help, placed each part, except the breastplate, onto her, checking and double checking they were secure. After checking herself out in the mirror she asked while twirling, "How does it look?"
Thor was left speechless for a second, the way her hair flowed with her spin reminded him of water sputtering from a silver fountain. Then he answered, "Like you are ready to face Ragnarok without fear."
One silver eyebrow was lifted, "Like I am ready to face Ragnarok without fear? Is that your way of complimenting me?"
Thor blushed, "It was the first thing that came to mind."
Rossweisse shook her head but smiled, "Thank you for the compliment."
Meanwhile
While Thor helped his father's bodyguard clean her armor Cadmus and Rota had tramped about the reserve looking at gift shops, reading about special events on the bulletin, and recently a short film telling about the six tribes. The former human still did not like America but the culture of the native people fascinated him. This place had such a rich history that must be preserved for others to learn.
"You really have outdone yourself, Cadmus. We've hit some rough spots along the way with this quest but I think we are close to finding the treasure."
Rota's praises had the Einherjar blushing profusly, "I still have a lot to make up for. This treasure hunt is only the beginning."
"And it has been a good one." The green haired girl said happily, "When we speak with the chiefs tonight we may finally know who this dragon Gaasy is."
"I hope we do." Said Cadmus Rossweisse leaving the teepee and inhaling a deep breath of the outside air as she listened to the wind blow and birds chirp. Suddenly a ball came into view rolling gently to a stop at his feet followed by a child who came chasing after it. The child hesitated upon seeing the Einherjar. Cadmus squatted to be eye level with the child and smiled, "Hello little one."
Again the child hesitated.
"Here you go." He said nudging the ball back to the child with his foot who hastily grabbed it and ran back to the teepee it was playing in front of.
Rota watched the exchange and noticed the Greek wore a forlorn look as if he was recalling something from long ago. Why had that child made him sad? Did it remind him of his childhood or perhaps he knew someone with a child he was never able to see again? She was curious to ask but the subject may be too sensitive for the Einherjar so she would leave it be until the hunt was over. Until he was ready to open up to her.
"You don't think those Devils will attack us here will they?" Cadmus asked.
"They wouldn't dare. Odina told you they cannot come here without permission and I'm sure the Native American Pantheon will not allow them to pursue us through the countryside. Speaking of which, did you notice we only met three of the five nobles?"
"Yeah," Said Cadmus, remembering each of the noble families encountered in New York, "Paimon, Vassago, and Sallos. What could Stolas and Agares be doing? Staying out of this affair or planning something more sinister?"
"I don't know but I am glad we did not face all five of them. If we had then we all would have been soundly defeated and our hunt for the treasure would have failed. That's another thing we need to consider; if we find the Seneca Tribe will they want a piece of the treasure for helping us? Would Thor allow it wouldn't he?"
"He may." Said Rota, sticking her hands in her sweaters pocket as she stepped onto a dirt path away from the natives who had been staring at them since their arrival, "We came looking for them and will have a price for the help we seek. I don't know exactly how big this debt is to the Dwarves but if what you have said is true about Fafnir's treasure then we definitely may have enough to give to the Seneca people."
"I guess we will see tonight." Said Cadmus.
Later that night
Drums pounded as natives dressed in exotic costumes chanting while dancing around a great fire in front of a totem. The performance had all entranced with awe and wonder at the sight, some tapping their feet to the beat of the drums. Food and drink filled the tables occupied by the people of the six tribes and the five guests sitting with Leif Eirkson and the six chiefs of the Mohawk, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Seneca, and Tuscarora's tribes. The mathematical genius Wíshe, the wheelchair bound Cinon, Vietnam veteran Nodin, former University at Albany history teacher Chayton, the artist Peru, and retired choir singer Takoda. All wise men, all skilled in the Native American magic taught by the Gods and Spirits of their mythology.
When the dance ended, Peru stood up and raised his cup, "My brothers and sister, sons, and daughters! Tonight we celebrate once more a feast to the spirits who have watched over us and whatsmore, guests from Leif Eirksons pantheon! Let us welcome the warriors of Asgard and their prince, Thor Odinson!"
As one, the tribesmen of the Mohawk, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Seneca and Tuscarora raised there cups or whooped in celebration to the Seneca chief's words. Only Cadmus shifted at the attention given to him. When the feast began at last Thor was eager to try everything, from the corn grown in the ground to the beef spit roast over a fire. All was good. Many questions were asked and many answers given.
Nodin turned to Thor, "I once knew a man in Vietnam who always prayed to you to give him strength yet such prayers did nothing to aid him…"
Thor shifted unfortunately, "Perhaps he didn't pray hard enough."
"Perhaps." The old war vet nodded solemnly in agreement then returned to eating his food seeing the God of Thunder was uncomfortable.
In the middle of the table Sigrun asked Peru, "Why did Leif choose to live among your people?"
The Seneca chief smiled, "Leif Eirkson loved our people when he traveled around America and Canada in his youth and wished to live among us and share his culture after becoming an Einherjar. Your people are a fascinating bunch. A warrior culture similar to the Comanche."
"Are we really?" The violet haired girl asked.
"Yes indeed. fierce warriors with the determination to win at all cost."
Sigrun turned to Leif, "Did you really tell them that's how Asgard is?"
The old man gave a teeth filled smile, "Well that was how you were when I came to Valhalla. Now you have, as humans in the modern era say, mellowed out."
Sigrun pressed her lips, "You said our questions will be answered at the feast."
"All in good time." Leif reassured before adding, "Not everyone at this feats knows about the Supernatural world."
Time passed three hours after the feasts ended the chiefs sat around the fire with the Asgardians and Leif. Chayton smoked a long pipe before passing it to Wishe, Takoda stared into the fire muttering thanks to the spirits to the bountiful feast, Nodina and Cinon spoke to each other, and Peru looked between the guests from Asgard before raising his hand for silence. Only the crackle of the fire, sounds of the wind, and cricket chirps could be heard.
"Leif says you have questions for us. For the Seneca Tribe, my tribe, ask and I shall answer best I can."
Sigrun, being the best at negotiating, went into a long detailed story about Asgard looking for Fafnir's treasure to pay off a debt to the Dwarves of Nidavellir. How Fafnir knew a dragon named Gaasy. How they discovered Leif Eirkson and the Seneca tribe at Asgards library. How they looked for Eirkson in New York and their encounter with the Exorcists and Rollo, and the fights with the Devils. The story had the five chiefs full attention, some going welded eye, and, in Cinon's case, a deep groan of annoyance at the Devil's actions.
"The sin of greed runs deep in their bones." Takoda said after a puff of the pipe offered by Chayton, "Those spawns who live beneath the earth will do whatever they can to get that gold."
"Even breaking our treaty?" Wishe asked worriedly, "They wouldn't dare do such a thing for gold. Their leaders said any Devil who breaks it shall be punished."
"I pray to the spirits that no such act will happen." Takoda whispered, still staring into the fire.
"So that is why we came looking for you. We are hoping you know anything about Gaasy." Sigrun finished, "We need that treasure to pay Nidavellir and rebuild Asgard. If you wish a share of the treasure-"
"We don't need your gold." Chayton interrupted, adjusting himself in the wheelchair, "We are simple people and we make plenty of money from casinos."
"But Fafnir may have stolen gold belonging to you." Sigrun explained.
"Not us," Nodin corrected, "From South America but the Gods of South America have long been extinct."
"And who is Gaasy?" Asked Cadmus, "Fafnir said that was the nickname of the dragon he shared his gold's location with."
Peru laughed, "I can see why your dragon would call him Gaasy. He has a very long name and can be difficult for those who do not know our language. The dragon you are searching for is named Gaasyendietha and we of the Seneca Tribe worship him."
Relief and joy filled the Asgardians, at last they knew who Gaasy was and were one step closer to finding Fafnir's treasure!
"Gaasyendietha." Repeated Sigrun, slowly before saying it a few more times to get the name correct, "So that is the dragon Fafnir shared his treasure's location with. Do you know were we can find Gaasyendietha?"
Peru nodded, "The shamans and I shall take you to were he resides and summon him for you to speak with him."
Thor bowed to the old tribesman, "Thank you so much for your aid, Chief Peru. Are you sure you do not wish a share of the treasure for this?"
Peru smiled, "You have a great debt to pay, Lord of Thunder. Your need for it is greater than our own."
"And we have no need for it. "Repeated Nodin, "We have our casinos to make money to help our people."
They thanked the chiefs one last time before helping clean up after the feast and return to their teepees, jubilant at long last finally getting the answers they sought since entering Asgard's library. Thor bid his friends goodnight and changed into his sleepwear, a tank top and shorts, then plopped into bed his joy still burning like a sun as he drifted off to sleep. Tomorrow they would meet Gaasyendietha and know were Fafnir's treasure is and pay off the debt to Nidavillir.
The next day
In the dead hours the Asgardians climbed aboard a bus with Leif, Peru, and the Seneca shamans that would take them two hours to were Gaasyendietha lived, in Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes of North America. They chose this option so no one would see them use magic to teleport there. In the first hour of the ride Rota and Cadmus slept while Thor, Sigrun, and Rossweisse sat with Leif asking about his travels and writing them down in a blank book.
"My life as a Viking was quite adventurous. I still dream about my discovery of America all those centuries ago. The cool hair and the chirp of the bird within the tall trees. It breaks my heart how much of the land has been defiled to build cities for humans to live among."
"You don't consider yourself a human anymore?" Asked Rossweisse.
Leif raised a brow, "I'm an Einherjar, Rossweisse. I am no longer a human but now a warrior in Odin's army. I may have the privilege to live on Midgard but when Ragnarok comes I will answer Heimdall's call and fight and die for the Allfather. Speaking of the Allfather, how is he?"
"Wise and perverted as usual." Thor muttered.
The former explorer laughed, "Wonderful to hear. I remember sitting down and telling him my exploits then being ordered to continue the exploration to gain more knowledge for him. Eventually I traveled all over America and Canada before retiring and settling down with the Seneca tribe. It truly broke my heart how these wonderful people were treated by the Europeans and Americans."
"Didn't the Christians force them to convert?" Asked Rossweisse, a spasm of anger flashing across Thor's face.
Leif nodded, "Most yes but some refused hence why the Native Pantheon is still around."
"What can you tell us about the Native American Pantheon?" Sigrun asked.
"That there are many different tribes and over a hundred Gods, or spirits, as they call them. Long ago they fought one another until Christianity came along and many put aside there differences to form a confederate to, in there words, fight the invading white people."
"Of course that did not go so well…" Growled Thor.
"No it didn't." Leif said solemnly, "They knew when the war was long and stepped aside to allow the Biblical Faction to thrive in the land. I have spoken to some and they chose to keep to themselves. They want nothing to do with the rest of the Supernatural world."
Sigrun nodded, "That's understandable. Many pantheons were secluded until the Biblical Faction started to spread out from Europe."
"Actually it was the Middle East they started in." Rossweisse explained, her time in Valhalla Academy gave her the time to brush up her knowledge on the other religions Odin knew about.
"Wherever they came from does not matter. What matters is hoping they know nothing about the treasure."
Leif cocked his head, "Why do you say that?"
"I'm sure they may have known when fighting the Devils. And with how many Christians live on this continent, millions are undoubtedly spies and warriors for the Church. So when they learn of it they will come after us."
The girls and explorer exchanged looks at Thor's words. They had not considered Exorcists would be spying out on them like the Devil's
"Rollo must be behind that." Sigrun said after a pause "He met us and must have not trusted us. Thor is, we must be prepared for confronting them."
"When that time comes you will. For now, ready yourself to meet Gaasyendietha."
The Asgardians relaxed for the rest of the ride; except for Thor. The red haired God was wide awake thinking about the Biblical Faction and their desire to get their hands on Fafnir's treasure. The gold and supposed superweapons taken by the Dragon King would be a desire by all within the Supernatural World.
None of them will get it! Only Asgard will!
By the time they arrived at the lake the sun was just starting to rise over the horizon, the sky slowly changing from purple to orange and when the shaman's were ready to summon the Gaasyendietha the sun had fully risen over the land but still climbed towards the blueing sky. Thor watched the shaman's with crossed arms as they danced about a symbol called Gaasyendietha's name while the chiefs pounding drums and shook tambourines. When it was seven past ten a dead silence fell on the lake after the chanting ended. The silence continued until great bubbles appeared out on the lake followed by a glow as bright as the sun that hastily moved toward the shore were Thor waited.
Here he comes.
Soon the surface was breached and the Asgardians stared at the dragon of the Seneca Tribe, Gaasyendietha. He was three times the size of a train with skin the colored dark green and a lighter shade on his underbelly. Two wings could be seen set between his alligator shaped head and muscular arms. Small fins could be seen running down his serpentine body that must allow him to swim quickly. What drew the Asgardians' attention was the fire covering Gaasyendietha's body.
How could he be on fire while underwater? Rossweisse wondered.
Wíshe, Cinon, Nodin, Chayton, Peru, Takoda, and the shamans bowed before Gaasyendietha as the dragon's orange eyes observed them all lingering the longest on the Asgardians who did not flinch under his gaze.
"Oh great, Gaasyendietha." Peru greeted him, "We summon you for the Asgardians have sought for you. Will you speak with them?"
Teeth as sharp as spears glistened as a low voice rumbled out of Gaasyendietha's long mouth, "Native Americans and Asgardians meeting once again. Does Fate align our people on purpose? What do you wish to ask?"
Thor stepped forward, "I am Thor, Son of Odin, and asked were Fafnir's treasure is hidden. He told us he shared its location with you."
Gaasyendietha lowered himself to look closer at Thor, his nostrils sniffing the redhead for a long moment before shifting himself to have one of his large eyes stare at the Aesir price. Gaasyendietha remembered Fafnir telling him about the Norse World, the Aesir, the Vanir, the Dwarves, Elves, and the Giants. The Native American dragon was fascinated by the Dragon Kings stories and wondered if he would ever meet them. Centuries later he was granted that wish by meeting the Viking explorer turned Einherjar, Leif Erikson who shared more about the Norse World. Now Gaasyendietha was meeting Eirkson again and the God of Thunder of Asgard.
So you are Thor." Gaasyendietha chuckled, "Fafnir said you died but somehow you have returned."
"Through strange events I cheated death and came back." Thor replied, "Gaasyendietha, I'm sorry for sounding rude but will you tell us were Fafnir's treasure is hidden?"
Sigrun stepped forward quickly explaining why they came looking for him and Gaasyendietha now understood.
"So that is why you wish to obtain the gold. Well in that case it is-" Suddenly he stopped and smelt the air, fire leaked out of his mouth like saliva as he growled "Show yourselves, white men!"
Everyone spun about and from behind trees appeared an army of Exorcists, how many exactly could not be counted but it was the one leading the army the Asgardians recognized and it made Thor's blood boil.
"Rollo!" Rota shouted, positioning herself between the Exorcists and Chiefs.
Cadmus ground his teeth, how could the Exorcist have found them so quickly or know where they were going? Could a spy at the reservation have been watching them? Many Natives were converted to Christianity but no devoted Christian Natives lived in the reserve so how did they find them?
As of reading the Einherjar's mind Rollo said, "You can thank those Devils. We captured one and told us why you came to America. Imagine my surprise when I learned you were after the treasure hoard of Fafnir. So we had spies all over New York look far and wide for you and Lord and behold we found you held up at a Native reserve and followed you here. That gold is exactly what we need to aid in our war against the forces of darkness and donate to charities and orphanages."
"The second reason I can understand but not the first." Said Sigrun, "For a people who preach love you sure are hell bent on waging war with Devils, Vampires and Pagan Gods."
Gaasyendietha drew himself to his full height, "That treasure doesn't belong to you, white men!" He growled menacingly, "You have no claim to it, Asgard dose and belongs to them. To steal from a dragon, dead or alive, is a grave punishment."
One Exorcist scoffed, "Dragons steal from humans. That treasure rightfully belongs to humanity. Will be taking it one way or another."
Thor grimaced, if Gaasyendietha hadn't smelt them then the Church would have found the treasure and taken it for themselves. Thor was hoping to no longer fight but that Norns had other plans for him. There was a dragon to aid in wiping out the army but mindless bloodshed would amount to nothing. Perhaps their was another way but would Rollo do it? Stepping forward Thor singled out Rollo, finger pointing at him.
"Rollo! Your descendant was once a proud warrior of the Vikings! If you too still hold true to their warriors honor then I call Holmgang to settle ownership of Fafnir's treasure! If you win we split the treasure but if I win you are to call off your spies who watched us and give up the treasure hunt!"
Cadmus glanced at Rota, "What did he say? Hole gang?"
"Holmgang." Corrected Rota, "He's basically challenging Rollo to a duel to claim ownership of Fafnir's treasure."
"Oh."
Dead silence filled the area, Thor stared down Rollo waiting for the Exorcist leader to answer him.
"Father Rollo," An Exorcist said, "You seriously aren't going to listen to him? He's a God and you cast aside those pagan ideals to follow our Lord in Heaven. Such frivolous-"
"I agree." Rollo said seriously, "I accept the duel."
The Exorcist felt his jack drop that the Exorcist from France accepted the Pagans challenge, they could have easily beaten these foreigners and the dragon into submission then get the treasures location. Now they had to sit here and hope their leader would win the duel. He checked himself while thinking about hope. There was no need for hope because Father Rollo had the Lord on his side, he would win.
Rollo and Thor stepped off to the side to give themselves a wide space to fight on.
"No magic. No weapons. Just fists." Said Rollo.
"Fine by me." Said Thor loosening himself up, he had been wanting to fight since the battle with the Devils at the park. Now he could let out his built up anger on this man, this traitor to the Norse world, this former viking who converted to Christianity for land and power. Remembering the hand-to-hand combat taught to him by the Church he took his fighting stance, which he saw caught Rollo by surprise.
That's an opening fight stance Exorcsits learn in hand-to-hand combat!
Thor cut him off by rushing the Exorcsits, eager as he was to let out his anger he was just as eager to finish this problem quickly. He closed the distance and drew his arm back to punch the older man who readied a block. What Rollo was not ready for was Thor rolling past him and delivering a powerful chop to the middle of his back, the force of the attack knocked the wind out of Rollo and left him stunned for a few minutes. Those minutes were enough for Thor to get back on his feet, wrap his arms around Rollo, and deliver a suplex before kicking him across the earth through a tree, splinters flying in all directions as the trunk crashed to the floor. Birds screeched and flew in fear of the battle before silence fell upon the land again.
Thor waited to see if Rollo would rise and when he did was revealed to be covered in bruises and blood with a limp right arm. Rollo took one step forward then collapsed panting heavily before spitting up blood and bile. When he had ceased his coughing, Rollo looked up and said, "I surrender."
"What!? An Exorcists yelled, furious to see one their elite fighters be so easily defeated, "Father Rollo you-
"I said I surrender!" Rollo repeated louder causing him to cough again before speaking, "Go back to your churches! And…get me back to the cathedral to be given proper healing."
"I suggest you listen to him." Thor advanced, fists clenching and unclenching, secretly hoping these fools would ignore Rollo and try to fight him? He had let out some of his anger but it still resonated in him and more fighting would help him release it. Another fight was dashed when a dozen Exorcists rushed to aid Rollo to walk back to the army and order them to leave.
"That was a bit much." Cadmus commented.
Thor glared at the trees, "Was it? We already had to deal with the Devils, we didn't need a whole army of humans chasing us."
"I'm just glad he agreed to the duel and didn't send his army against us." Said Rossweisse, "That says he at least still followed Norse traditions."
Gaasyendietha's laughter drew their attention, "Well done, God of Thunder. Without the use of your magic, you humbled him greatly and have knocked him down a peg within the ranks of the Exorcists."
Thor redirected his attention to the dragon, "Gaasyendietha, do you know where Fafnir hid his treasure?"
Gaasyendietha sighed, "You're determined to find the treasure aren't you?"
"I am sorry but you saw the trouble we are dealing with. We need to know its location as soon as possible and give it to the Dwarves."
"Very well," The dragon said before lowering his head to shore, "But if you worry about pursuers, only one of you must know its location and secrets."
"Rossweisse," Said Thor, glancing at her, "Will you do the honors of asking Gaasyendietha?"
"M-me!?"
"Why not? You are the smartest of us all and won't forget. Who else agrees?"
"We agree." Said Cadmus, Sigrun, and Rota at the same time.
The Valkyrie shifted under everyone's gaze before stepping forward to let the dragon whisper the secrets of Fafnir's treasure. Outwardly she kept a calm serious look but inside was bursting with surprise and excited at the knowledge she was learning.
When the dragon finished he drew himself to full height, "Farewell Asgardians, may the spirits guide you on your quest!" With that the dragon of the Seneca tribe dove beneath the surface.
"Well? What did he tell you?" Thor asked Rossweisse after boarding the bus to take them back to the reserve.
But Rossweisse shook her head saying, "I won't share any information until we reach its location."
"But we are out of harm's way. We escaped the Devils and the Exorcist will not trouble us." Thor reassured.
Instead of replying to Thor, the Allfather's bodyguard asked Peru, "How is Gaasyendietha on fire when he lives underwater?"
"Because he is a dragon of both fire and water." Said the Seneca Chief, "He can dwell beneath the water and fly above on flames. Our ancestors use to call him the meteor dragon for many saw him fly in the sky when meteor showers occurred above us."
"Fascinating." Said Rossweisse, "If you don't know, I would like to learn more about your tribe and those of the others for knowledge to share back as Asgard."
Leif clucked his tongue, "I did what you are doing now, Rossweisse, and it will not work. You may learn about their culture but not write it in books for the Norse World to read. There is much the Natives wish to keep secret from other Pantheons."
Rossweisse bowed her head in acceptance, understanding the distrust they had to other Pantheons after suffering under the Biblical Faction's hostile takeover of their lands.
"Your duel with Rollo was swift and brutal." Sigrun commented to Thor, "I've seen many quick paced duels at Valhalla but you beat him in seconds. Does that mean your powers are returning?"
"I hope so." Said Thor as he tried to gather magic within his hand to form a ball of lightning but nothing happened and he sighed, "I guess my anger toward the Church gave me that extra boost to win."
One violet eyebrow raised slightly, "Why do you hate the Church?"
Thor scolded himself for letting that slip out, "I…hate what they have done to us and that of the other Pantheons. Look at what they did to America. To Scandinavia. Christianity always spouts they are better than "Fake" Gods which isn't true since many Hindu Gods are among the Top Ten. God of the Bible may have created Sacred Gears but how powerful is he really? Can he foresee the future? Command the elements? Or is he just a skilled inventor? Only the Angels, Jehovah's "Children" know that answer."
Sigrun's eyes narrowed, "Did you just call God of the Bible, Jehovah? Only the Christian's called God of the Bible, Yahweh or Jehovah." She leaned closer, anger flashing in her eyes, "What are you hiding?"
Thor looked past Sigrun to Rossweisse who was still talking with the tribe chiefs then back to Sigrun. He grew indecisive on what to do next; tell Sigrun the truth about his affiliation as a weapon for the Church or making another excuse. Another excuse that may cause another slip up. He had earned her respect as a warrior in their spars and trust as a friend through workouts and conversations but could this information be trusted to her? Could she keep a secret?
He repeated his last thought aloud to the Emerald Valkyrie in a low voice,
"Why?" Sigrun asked.
"Can you keep a secret?" Thor repeated.
Sigrun glanced about to see if anyone was paying attention before nodding, "Yes."
"I...was once affiliated with the Church. Actually affiliated isn't the best word for it, I was their experiment. A test subject to be trained to fight against their enemies. That's all I know. Everything else is a blur. I still hate them for what I talked about before but that's why I truly hate the Church. For trying to turn me, a God, into a weapon for them to use."
A long silence fell between Thor and Sigrun, the latter's expression going through many expressions; focused, shocked, horror, then pity.
"I'm so sorry." She said in a low whisper, "Did Odin know what you were going through?"
"No. He only discovered me after...after…Heimdall sensed me unleashing a large amount of magic. They found me unconscious within the ruins of a building belonging to the Church."
Eyes still focused on the God of Thunder, Sigrun nodded. While this news was surprising it had also filled her with sadness; Thor had a past shrouded in mystery with only the memories of being an experiment for the Christians. If she had known of this boy sooner she'd have gathered as many Valkyries as she could to rescue him and bring him back to Asgard. Screw trespassing onto enemy territory or possibly starting a war, Thor was not part of the Christians Faction. He's Aesir and if they want Thor back, they'll have to fight for him.
It was also shocking and yet also impressive how they managed to keep Thor hidden even from the eyes of Odin. Did that mean Heaven was kept in the dark as well? Why would the Church want to use the powers of a God outside of their own Faction and more importantly how did they find Thor first?
"Do you hate me?"
Thor's words brought her out of her thoughts, his face was dead serious from the question. It shocked her to hear him ask that. How could she hate him from being subjected to such a terrible childhood?
Grabbing the back of his head gently she moved, pressed her forehead against his and said, "Never. You are our Prince."
A sigh of relief left the God of Thunder. He shouldn't have been so worried about Sigrun judging him. She was a warrior of Asgard and his friend.
"Is that smoke!?" The Shaman's exclamation at the very front drew everyone's attention. Rising like a cobra ready to strike was a thick plume of black smoke. "I think something happened at the reservation!"
The drive steadily increased speed to get them back to the reservation as fast as possible without crashing. Eventually they reached it and what they saw would forever be etched into their minds; emergency vehicles were parked everywhere, civilians ran as fast as they could to safety, and firefighters tried to fight the flames. What would have caused such a devastating fire to the Indian reserve? An accident or an arsonist? Or worse a terrorist attack?
When the bus stopped they all came rushing out, Wishe went straight to the cops for answers on what happened while the others went to check on the civilians. All were in shock but some were grieving or shaking with rage. The Asgardians were unsure if they should help or stay out of it.
"C-chief Chayton." A woman moaned as she wrapped him in a tight embrace, "It…it was horrible!"
"What happened?" The Onondaga chief asked.
"It was…it was something out of a nightmare…these strangers came and attacked us. A whole group of people came demanding for you and the other chiefs! We didn't know and then they…they." She choked on her words.
Another Native, a Mohawk, came to comfort her and at the same whisper something into Chayton's ear. Whatever he said Thor did not know but he saw the chief's face change from concern to shock then anger.
"What happened?" Cinon asked.
"What happened…" Chayton growled, rage flashing in his black eyes as he glanced around the group, "Is that the reservation is under attack. By the Devils!"
Well that was quite a chapter. Lots of down time and ground covered for the Asgardians. However more danger awaits them still!
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. Be sure to leave your review of it and I will see you in the next chapter.