Ah My Goddess Fan Fiction ❯ Valkyrie's Knight ❯ Act IV ( Chapter 4 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Oh My Goddess! - Valkyrie's Knight

Act IV

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Slumber had never become so peaceful before. The dreams swam around more easily than one does in warm water, flowing and giving of the kind. The kind that makes Heaven worth living on Earth. Moreso, he knew his dreams were as such, peaceful and warm.

It had felt like this for an indeterminable amount of pleasant time. Dreams never could be kept track of, an d they didn't even seem of focus in fact. For him, it was about just simply feeling such comfort, such a rarity it all felt, that time did essentially stand still.

Such was how the clouds started to part, and memory gain bodily control. Such was how the body begins to waken the sleeping mind in turn. Such was how the mind made them all realize someone was nearby in close comfort. This was how the eyes snapped open.

Eh? That's not just one....

--------------------

Lind simply lay on a floor mat, alone it seemed, but more than awake as well, as she held her eyes closed, while the other residents of the still slept, just a bit longer. However she had long since given up pretenses of just simply allowing her new beloved, a simple measure of a lonely nap in the nearby hallway corner bend, (space was tight now,) not with out having to `check up' on him all this passing dawn.

It gave her special insight, and of sight, as she felt her flowing extensions swirl out from the common room, and towards said corner.

Hence how Imladris woke and found both Cool Mint and Spear Mint hovering over him, their bodies positioned in just a way to `inspect' the mortal knight as he slept, plain clothes and all. This for the past two hours. This since Lind was too excited anymore to keep sleeping of norm.

Her silent `dream' revelry, as such, ended however as he heard Imladris gasp from both afar, and `up close'.

“Well good morning.” ..the knight calmly said, though he betrayed just enough surprise in tone to make Lind chuckle. This reflected back to the angels and in turn made Imladris smile. It all held like this for a moment.

“Hey, what the...?” ...but only a moment. Lind opened her eyes as she head Skuld suddenly. Imladris did and started to rise. “Oh good mor... YAHH!” ..as Lind suddenly goes on an impulse, and actually has her twin angels glom onto and all over the witless knight, hugging him for Lind in a wacky display of sorts. This of course just makes the flowing medium of `cloth-cloud' go haywire right in Skuld's face, and literally so in fact! “Hey! What the heck is..”

“Dear Almigh... -hehehe- ..they are... -hahaha- ..I can't... -girly giggling- ..tickle..”

Lind just giggles, Skuld just yells maniacally, and Imladris.. (poor guy..) Better than an alarm clock really. (This new version anyway.) This as other heads of the household begin to wake, and poke heads out of various rooms. Keiichi does so out of his reclaimed room, sliding the door open to see the interesting display of flowing cloth.

“Well, another full day it seems.” ..this as Bell pokes her head out of her room, and sees what is happening to Imladris. Her giggle equals Urd's and Peorth's bewildered looks.

--------------------

Keiichi smelled the waffings of most excellent cooking in the air, and vocalized it quite heartily. “Wow Belldandy, that smells great!” ..this Bell in the adjacent kitchen area just beamed back. “Thank you Keiichi. It'll be ready soon.”

Keiichi smiles as Peorth and Urd babble again about their preferred morning soaps. Skuld nearby fiddles with another contraption, as he sighs and wonders what contraption he's lost parts in again. He then notes someone missing.

He smirks. In the kitchen, Bell is actually thinking the same.

Outside the mortal hears light talking, more than one tone, and quite peaceful at that. Keiichi just wondered though if it was all supposed to be this peaceful, this morning. He sat down and then remembered that only a day ago....

“Are you thirsty Keiichi dear?” ...this Keiichi suddenly heard, and looked up suddenly, enough the other goddesses in the room looked as well. “Um.. ah, yeah sure.” ..this as Keiichi held a pitcher of juice ready, after apparently already plating everyone without the mortal ever even noticing.

“You okay K-boy?” Urd asks. Keiichi just chuckles and scratches his head as normal. “Oh yeah sure, never better.”

Peorth however comments from an upside down pose, her hair almost draping into the food, much to Skuld's annoyance. “Vous certain?” ..this Keiichi just blinks and shrugs. “Think I'm just hungry. Might also be about work here.”

Even Skuld grew concerned, as Bell went back to get the last of Breakfast trimmings. Keiichi just remarks. “Really, I'm fine. Just hungry.”

The three goddesses just looked over at each other, just as Bell came back in. Bell then plated down her own tea and silverware. “Okay, we can eat.”

Keiichi looked around. “Aren't we going to wait for Lind and Imlade?” ..this Kei shortened Imladris's name for present. Bell just giggled. “They already are eating.” ..this the other goddesses just giggled rather openly about. Something Keiichi never saw them do much of. “They are?” This the resident mortal blinked, and looked back towards the open slide door.

Outside, Imladris and Lind were actually sharing nothing more than salted rations and some well kempt fruit juice, held in magically chilled containers.

“Well, at least -munch munch- this stuff still held up.” ..this Imladris commented, as he also looked over a cut loaf of stiff bread. Lind just sat next to him and was actually enjoying the otherwise meager rations. “Still I wonder.. -chompmunchmunchgulp- where did you get all this stuff.”

Imladris stopped chewing and looked down. He gulped down and just shrugged. “Not sure. Thought I was low on stuff before I got here. That Glacier region sure wasn't a kind place to me.”

The two just look at each other, shrug, and then go back to eating their Valkyrie fit meal. The morning meal went something along these lines, and ended rather amicably, the first in quite some time. The lack of normal arguing and such nonsense Keiichi was used to, actually was a bit uneasy for an unexplained reason.

--------------------

Keiichi was hard at work again, getting the old BMW back together, a good chance to really give everything a good check over and pre lubing before installation. Everyone else was busy doing their own things, or in the case of Peorth, not busy. The time alone allowed Keiichi to try and get a grip on things.

He wiped his forehead as he finished putting most of the shaft together. “Boy, this is hard work.” ..this as he sets the part down gently on the nearby tarp.

Just then he feels another person draw shadow over him.

“Ah, hello.” Keiichi just says to a curious mortal knight. “Pardon me.” ..Imladris just quips back, as he looks over all the strange parts. Keiichi just looks back to his pride and joy, quipping with a separate part in hand. “Just getting my bike back together after all that mess.”

Imladris just blinks and imparts. “Never have seen such as this before. I betray my curiosity.” ..this Keiichi looks back up on. “Never?”

“Nay.” ..the knight quips simply. Keiichi just wonders a second as Imladris keeps well enough to just look at the pieces he has no idea about. Imladris imparts to such.. “The last time I existed on this world, the idea of mechanical contraptions such as this was more fantasy than fact.”

Keiichi blinked, and then stopped working a cam into position, asking. “Is it true that you died... wow.. way back..?”

Imladris hears and respects the tone in attempt to not offend him. In fact in response. “I was only seventeen at the time. Not even close to my next birthday. I don't really miss the world I once hailed, it was too harsh, not very friendly in many ways.

I envy you and this world for that, at least for all I can't understand yet.” ..he stopped, not wondering just yet on the coming departure to come later this day. Keiichi just finished setting the cam in place, and then looked back up. “Well, it's not always easy in this world either. If I can give any measure at all of such.”

Imladris nodded. “I imagine not. No world is.”

Imladris then heard Keiichi comment, something a bit to his own surprise. “At least there's always someone to share life with.”

Imladris just nodded, and made silence for agreement. They both understood that more than enough now.

--------------------

Lind placed the phone receiver down with a silent click. Peorth behind her noted her smile and smirked as well. “Bonne nouvelle?” ..this the Valkyrie looked back and commented simply. “Yes.”

Peorth just shook her head. “Even still as austere as always.” ..this Lind smirked. “With whom I still choose.” Peorth then heard Bell saunter in with a good hum. “Belldandy.” ..she greeted the goddess with. Bell nodded with a smile, and looked at Lind. “When are you heading back to Heaven?”

“In an hour. Gate is having to deal with a heavy workload today, so she's scheduled us accordingly.”

Peorth leans in and prods. “What of Don Juan?” Lind just imparts, a rather easy smile creeping in again. “Almighty wishes to see us both, this I was just informed.” Peorth just sighs. “Why can't I get a love as grand as yours?” ..she then notes over to Bell. “Both of you in fact. Ca alors.”

Bell and Lind just look at each other, and then to Peorth's annoyance, `both' smile. Peorth just throws a light tiff and floats off to bug Urd. Bell just then asks. “Where is Lord Imladris?”

“Around. He wanted to get a feel of this world before he left today.” Lind imparted simply. Bell nods, and then considers, and asks. “Can you come with me for a moment?” ..this Lind nods. “Of course.”

The two then head out and towards a secluded area for a moment.

Peorth meanwhile finds Urd fiddling with a new concoction. The smell alone makes Peorth snip with a wave of her hand. “Must all your trinkets be so pungent?” ..just as Urd holds a hand up. “Careful, this one is still unstable.”

Peorth slits her eyes. “You mean you have stationnaritÃ© ones?” Urd just looks dryly back and then adjusts how much powder of some ungodly kind, to get her formula just right. As she does this, Urd asks.. “You notice how Kei was acting today?”

Peorth nods. “Tout Ã bien conscient.”

Urd then comments. “I think it's time we give our little Keiichi a proper reward.”

Peorth blinks, and then looks around, seeing is Skuld was nearby. She then looks back and smirks. “A little amour in the air then?”

Urd just shrugs. “Could be fun.”

Somewhere off the nearby hallway, an optical eye focuses twice, considering.

--------------------

“1900?”

Imladris nodded, sitting on the ground with a fully interested Keiichi. “Aye. October of that year. I forget the day for some reason. Anyway, after I died in 1917, the rest of time in Heaven became more of my life than my old.

Still, being on old soil makes me shiver.” ..this as the knight pats the good earth. (And somewhere a Spirit approves close by.) Keiichi meanwhile just blinks. “Can't believe a normal guy can even exist in Heaven.”

Imladris `pets' the grass nearby as he explains. “Apparently the only thing different from me, to.. well.. you, is all these special `robots', or nanites that are completely infused in all of my cells. There's like a few thousand per cell to enhance ever last function, not only for all my abilities and skills, but also to even allow me to coexist in such a higher plane.

A third dimensional being normally can't exist in higher dimensions. All that stuff about mental breakdown and planar incompatibili8ty. Kinda complex stuff.”

Keiichi smiles. “Don't think I could live like that.”

Imladris just chuckles. “Not sure how I do it sometimes either. Now that I remember and all to at that.”

Keiichi smirks and then sighs. The thoughts came again, and then he passed them `on', not wanting to think of such. Imladris however puts in without looking at Keiichi's expression. “At this rate, you may end up like me in some way, what with all you...” ..he then `does' note Keiichi's expression.

“Oh.. ah.. sorry. Didn't mean to..”

Keiichi just sighs. “How much longer....”

Imladris blinks and then sighs as well. He guesses from all relevant data, and that quote, of what is meant. Imladris had gotten good at guessing, thanks to all those lessons the Generals kept impressing.

“As long as you want it to.”

Keiichi looked over and got a good expression of confidence in kind.

--------------------

“I really do want to thank you.” Bell said as soon as they stopped back, near the clovers Lind and Bell had been practicing her singing with, the night she arrived back. Lind stopped and blinked, as Bell bowed in appreciation. Lind however just responded. “That isn't necessary. As I said before...”

“Your joy has shifted now, yes?”

Bell's change of tact catches Lind off guard, and she quite easily smiles again. So this is what she meant all along. This Lind remembered what Bell did say about smiling. Lind calmly responds with eyes closed. “Yes, indeed it has.”

The two goddesses stood as serene beings in this nature filled sanctuary. Bell then just calmly imparted. “I really do want to thank you, since it is because of you that we all have found our new path in life here.” Lind cocks back an eye of confusion. “Why is that?”

Belldandy explains in her own unique way, her flowing mane echoing her words. “Standing by your own beloved as you have. It made me realize what is important to me as well. After all we all went through, I found that it is time to consider my own feelings for Keiichi. Renewed as it all is in my heart.”

Lind still was quite following, her confused words echoing.. “Renewed? What is there to decide? You and Keiichi have been together for so long. I can't see anything ending that. I still don't...”

Bell continues, hands folded to her chin. “You held your trust in Imladris for so long, and it showed yesterday in that moment of profession. Seeing how you two love each other with such openness, gives me confidence to take my own relationship with Keiichi further. I had been afraid myself of just that ever since events began to become much more complex. I feel that I must finally do something more for us both, to show our commitment in such adversity.

I want to love my Keiichi in a much more expressive way now. I needed a reason however, and such your love of Imladris gives me confidence to know that we too can evolve our relationship, my Keiichi and I.”

Lind openly blinked. This was a bit different for Belldandy, for certain. Apparently the recent times had more impact than anyone could ever have suspected. Lind then closed her eyes and felt her emotions within such serenity. She just offered back in this vein. “I admit, I was truly caught off guard, despite all I thought I was ready for, when I heard those words yesterday.” ..she then clutched at herself gently. “I never felt such warmth in my soul before, I didn't want to lose that feeling. I however realized I was still afraid of something when Imladris confessed as he did.”

Bell blinks as her mane swirled around. “What do you mean?”

“Imladris scares me still, in a way. He `is' the only one that can get through to my heart. I was not used to such weakness. I knew being hurt in such a way was terrifying to me. But when I realized this, I knew I was holding myself back. I then appeared like I did, it was all that was in my mind when I simply wanted him to see all of me, my angels and myself. I knew he could never truly do that, as the true mortal he has returned as. I wanted to show him my own trust, but I lost all feeling as soon as I appeared to him as I did.

The rest was as you saw. I still can't truly describe it all even now.”

Lind then darkened her tone. “If not for his recovered memories though, I may not have been so open. I almost gave up hope when we found him a few days ago. The coldness and iron duty to his so-vaunted end he thought he wished for. That is the person that I feared would ruin my soul, why I held back for so long.

I really nearly gave up hope.” Lind stopped, clutching her jumpsuit dearly, hanging onto memories she did not need to.

Bell also remembers, but then offers with hands on Lind's.. “But you did not. All is as it always should have been. Because of those trials, I can see us both, Keiichi and I, leading renewed lives of our own. I wish to begin a new evolution of my life with Keiichi.

And if not for you, that would not have been.”

Lind gulps a bit again, proper feelings returning, but then counteroffers. “You forget to include Imladris in this.”

“I have not.” Bell imparts, Lind looking again with bewilderment. “I have not, because you already do so for me. As long as you love him, my thanks for you are extended. There are words and feelings of appreciation I cannot give, that you now can.”

Lind at this giggles reflexively, and then takes Bell's hands in kind, much to the Present Goddess's surprise. “I hope you can give something for me to Keiichi then.”

Bell blinks. “What would that be?”

Lind professes. “My apology for it being my Angel of Mint Twin that was in Keiichi's soul, and yours was not. I suspect he may be able to acquiesce to the same, if you were to share the same of Holy Bell.”

Bell considers. “I had considered just that, however..” ..worried about the effects on Keiichi during, and after the Blue Lance fiasco occurred. However Caceroth's passing seemed to have not affected the mortal in the way Belldandy feared.

Lind then grows a bit mischievous sounding, and leans in to whisper in certain to Bell's right ear. “Have you ever heard of.....”

Belldandy goes wide eyed, but is actually pleasantly shocked at the suggestion in coming. Not even Urd could have considered something like this.

--------------------

“That's what I heard Lady Skuld.”

Skuld in turn blinked a bit wide eyed. “You sure about that Sigel?”

“Aye Mistress.” ..the young robotic mannequin replied in a sweet, though still electronic sounding voice of a young school girl. Spunky as the creator at that, from tone alone. (Never mind a new language routine that was recently added to her language database.) Skuld just sighs and quips. “I'm not `that' ready to let Sis be `that' near Keiichi. Even if...” ..for a moment Skuld stopped, for once actually considering all feelings involved.

However the Future Norn just couldn't quite accept Keiichi and her Big Sis `that' together.

“So they think they can make Sis....” ..Skuld just huffs out in just enough of a wacky tone. “Heheh. Let's see how they like playing these games a different way then.” ..she then looks over at Sigel with a continued wacky, devious look.

“Time to nip this in the bud.”

--------------------

“You sure about that?” Keiichi asks Imladris. The other whom just looks simply at in the waiting. Keiichi just asks, feeling a need to get something off his chest. “Ever since Hild showed up. Heh, maybe ever since Velsper did in fact, I've been seeing more and more resistance to Bell and me being together, and more and more everyone around us seems to have to fight more and more.

I mean I don't `ever' want to be apart from Bell, but it seems the rest of the world is trying to do just that.”

Keiichi sighs and grows a bit scared of his own words. “What if something else happens, like either Caceroth, Celestine, or just simply Hild again? Or even just...”

“You just said `you' never want to be apart from Lady Belldandy right?”

Keiichi stops and looks up, as Imladris just looks back. A recent lesson coming to knightly mind. “Uh... yeah.”

Imladris considers for a moment, and then tries to put words that don't overpower the meaning of the moment, of an answer wanted.

“If there `is' one thing even I learned in all my time in Heaven, and all the life span I have had, it's that when you want something, and more someone, then you make sure your have a good grip on that which you want most.

In your own way that is.”

Keiichi just tilts his head. “So I don't give up either of us?”

Imladris in kind. “As if Bell ever would, and if you don't, not even Hild by creation or ending, can separate you.”

Keiichi blinks. “You make that sound simple.”

“Nothing defeats complexity, than acceptance of the simpler things at time. If your heart wills it, then you will keep it, for as long as you do want it.

And I suspect...” ..Keiichi hears from Imladris, as the knight carefully weighs, trying not to sound as much absolute in the saying, but rather in the hope imparted for saying this. The knight professes this as.. “...if it comes to it, if I am any indication, you may not be limited to just one life to ensure this.

Depending of course.” Keiichi blinks, not considering `that' far ahead yet. He was just concerned in the here and now, the immediate life of yet lived and shared. He puts out as such. “Uh, I think I'm just worried about Bell and me for the short term.”

Imladris just nods and smiles. “Then I do not doubt your intent to hold your course, for you both. Just wish I could be here to help ensure that.”

Keiichi blinks again. “Really?”

Imladris just shrugs. “Dunno. But you `are' as close to what I have for a friend on this world now. For me that is saying a lot after being away from this world for such a long time. I'm probably being too forward in even imparting such...”

Keiichi gets that much, not yet fully understanding this knight yet either. A bit intimidating, but a good solid heart, just the kind Lind was fit for. Both of each other at that. Nice and rough joints to two hearts just starting to merge together.

Not as smooth and sculpted like his and Bell's were just yet. The young mortal lad just replies to the more experience worn version. “Maybe a bit forward for the moment, but not very much.”

Imladris just chuckles. “Aye, that....” ..before waifs of something flowing through the air towards them, rather intently at that it even seems. “...eh?”

Keiichi hears the flowing echoes lace the air then hears enough to impart. “They're doing it again.”

--------------------

Skuld and Sigel stop, as does Peorth and Urd do, when the song of three Angels caressed the atmosphere of the Temple. It never fails to make them all do as such, the beautiful songs of Heaven on Earth making them just sit and listen.

Urd remarks to Peorth.. “Wonder how old Imladris is going to react.” ..this Peorth realizes and giggles. “Magique Ã plein.”

--------------------

“Heh..” Keiichi just quips, realizing, as Imladris cocks an eye at him. “What?” ..said a second time now.

K1 just says nothing as they home in on the angelic choir, as if moths to a beautiful white flame. (Such burns to the soul included.) Imladris is split between the muse and Keiichi's intent, when they pass through the greenery, into the open glade. Just before entering the area, Imladris heard the voices rise in clarity, almost on cue, as the knight sees glowing detail of white through the branches.

And sees `far' more on clear sight, as the two arrive. Keiichi the more used, no less awed of, of the sight most magnificent, just stands there to listen with an honest smile. Imladris however had never heard this singing before. Of Angels before yes. Of Belldandy indeed of course.

But never of this. Not of Lind's Angels brought forth, and certainly never in song before. Rare was it to his still recently freed mind to see the Angels so brought forth.

And certain virgin of experience this was, as Bell and Lind sound, both very much openly, and both in fact, this time to Keiichi's note, arms raised with equal borne soul. Angels each also were very serene this time, their glowing presence making nature stand still in it's own reverence and revelry. Lind for her part was fully enjoying this experience, her own voice still just a bit uncertain to herself.

That lack of chip to confidence, however was not anywhere on the mind, of the fallen to knees knight-mortal watching. Certainly not to his own streaming tears is such awe struck love. It was certainly about what Keiichi felt, just short of, but noting from Imladris's stance, that that was enough for him as well.

It all went on like this enough, Imladris for dear life wanting to remember this moment in still time forever, but he knows just better just enjoy while it all lasts. Such as it slowly ends as Lind clasps hands to note she is done for now. She is actually surprised her new beloved didn't shout out like Skuld did the last time she sang.

She actually wasn't sure if that was a good or bad thing.

As Bell slowly ends her own sonnets, she notes Keiichi walk up, both her and Holy Bell smiling openly. Keiichi just imparts. “Still beautiful as always.” Bell and Holy Bell both nod. “Thank you again Keiichi dear.” ..this Keiichi just beams back in just about mirror kind.

Both then suddenly hear a good flop nearby and both look to the amusement, as Imladris suddenly had to quite actually catch a happy, leaping Lind. “Ah..? Lind?”

Lind just beams out in a much like happy, gushy tone. “Did you hear that? Tell me I sounded good to you! Huh? Did I sound good?” ..Lind imparts with rather `glossy', waiting eyes. Imladris just blinks a bunch and just smiles back meekly. “Good? That was the most incredible thing I've heard in all my life!”

Lind just notches up the happy-gushy look by then glomming tightly onto the knight, making the bloke gasp roughly. “Oh thank you!” ..this Lind just huggles the knight-plushie of the moment, this in turn Imladris just chuckles nervously. Bell and Keiichi in kind just giggle a good healthy bit in turn. Imladris however can't help but wonder to himself.. Is this the same hard iron soul I've known all this time?! Holy...

He wonders that for only a moment longer, and then just wraps his own arms around her. This again to the onlooking happy amusement. Moreso in fact, when Imladris realizes the arms had been holding him up. Lind feels as Imladris yelps. “Whoops.. wha.. -plop- ..ouchie.”

“They're having fun.” Keiichi notes as Lind doesn't let go one whit for the moment, off the bottom of the screen. Bell just keeps giggling away with Holy Bell, all left as such until a voice afar. “Lind! Imladris! ..?”

From afar, Peorth appears overhead a bit, some of the birds that had gathered, parting and then flocking right back in place whence the Forever Goddess approaches. Bell and Keiichi note as Peorth looks down and chuckles. “L'air amusant.” ..before she adds. “Fear I must inform that Gate is ready.”

Lind suddenly moans in quite vocal dejection. “What? It hasn't been an hour yet.”

Peorth just replies in turn. “Mes excuses.” Imladris in turn just quips. “Guess Gate got into high gear today.” ..this Lind moans again, face buried in Imladris's stomach. “How nice of her.”

Peorth about busts a gut, managing to keep her demeanor, imparting further. “Apparently, le Dieu Tout Puissant wishes to see you both in person.”

At this, the two suddenly jump up and `quite' anime comically, straighten each other up.. “Okay, time to go!” ..Lind in kind.. “Aye at once!” ..at whit both just bound off towards the residence, in which point Peorth finally `does' lose it. Bell and Keiichi however just look a bit bewildered, though Bell gets a good giggle out of this as well.

Keiichi just sighs. “Talk about two of a kind.”

Peorth, in between laughing, just snickers over.. “Maybe you two can take notes, peut-Ãªtre?”

Bell and Kei both each just anime blush and fiddle fingers a bit. (Holy Bell in mirror simult.)

Peorth just loses it again.

--------------------

Velsper just lays on the grass, at the rear corner of the nearby Temple itself, as everyone gathers at the back of the residence proper, there amid the garden area, as a good-bye is finally occurring. As the nominal family proper watch as Valkyrie and Knight both bow. The two departing in formal fashion, Lind's white jumpsuit equal to Imladris's own nominal, knightly attire, as far as Imladris was concerned.

“Thank you for everything.”

Bell and Kei both blink, as Imladris professes in a deep bow. “But we are the ones that...” Keiichi quickly says. Imladris raises back up, and holds a hand up, Lind looking over gently. “Nay. My duty was never personally thankful, as compared to your assistance to help me recover my mind, which is far more.

That is how I am thankful, since your lives are saved through them. All of ours in each the same.”

Lind smirks, as Bell blinks, both realizing thanks are suddenly turned tables upon in a fashion. Lind imparts as the wind starts to rise again. “But Bell had thanked us first for all we did for them.”

Imladris just replies. “Could all that have been if not for their help first to garner the final result? Nonetheless, I am more happy giving thanks than receiving.” Lind quips back sidelong and love struck in tone. “Is that of the teachings you received?”

Imladris just chuckles simply. “Of Mist indeed.”

Keiichi just imparts out loud as the winds really churn up. “You still have to take our thanks anyway, guy!” ..this Imladris just thumbs up Keiichi with. Urd, Skuld and Peorth look on as the gate starts to form from the very clouds, the method more of choosing of Heaven's choice this time. That plus Imladris wasn't physically capable of going through a window portal just yet. (Something promised with the next enhancement upgrade, as Mist whispered to the bloke before they went right back to Heaven that same previous day.)

Skuld just smiles, Urd and Peorth a bit sour, the other four not realizing the fact that two of them heading back to Heaven means plans are going to be a bit more `normal' around here. Just also means Skuld has only one set of problems in this silently fomenting plan.

“By bye, have fun in Heaven.” Skuld just says just a bit `too' happily, this Peorth and Urd side glance from either side of her suspiciously.

Just then the gate opens and a large beam of light feathers around the newly minted couple.

As the light swirls around them, Bell takes the chance of last moment to chime out to them. “Now remember what we also said!”

Imladris blinks as Keiichi looks over (in fact the lot of them do.) Peorth just comments with a gawking look. “MentionnÃ© que?” ..this Bell makes a finger to her own lips. “A special secret.”

This makes even Keiichi look, as the last thing seen of the two, is Lind holding fast to Imladris's entire left arm. At that, the departure portal and winds quickly die down, and a slight sigh of remiss escapes the lot of them.

“Hope we get to see them again.” Keiichi says, as parting of a good friend. Bell nods in kind. Urd just then imparts. “Well, no better time for TV I.. uh... hey!”

Urd looks back and garners a dry look as Skuld and Peorth already are heading for the boob-tube. Urd just chases after them in a fit. Keiichi just sighs. “The more things change....”

Bell just then takes Keiichi's hand, to his surprise.

“Can we talk alone for a moment dear?”

Keiichi's heart races a bit, as he nods with a good blush. “U.. uh yeah.. s.. sure.”

--------------------

Imladris blinked outright as soon as they arrived. Where `much' to his surprise. “Huh?!” ..this Lind looks around and sighs.

All around them in the System Hub, goddesses are outright standing, floating, and cheering their hearts out, not just them, but Angels galore with them all around the chamber. Not just normal workers of the Hub either. There had to be dozens of dozens of them to both of their eyes. Before them Chrono, Ere and Ex each lead as much of the cheering as does....

Imladris just groans an d slumps his shoulders. “Can't we do a simple teleport?” Lind just giggles a bit at. This as the Administrator of Call calls out. “Our hero's return!” ..this Imladris sees and dryly moans again. “Phosus?”

He however straightens up in good humor, as he and Lind walk away hand in hand, from just in front of the main gilded spire of the system mainframe access node, and walk up to bow to Phosus on the meeting.

“Commander. Or is that Administrator?” Imladris comments, as Phosus nods to Lind and Imladris back in turn, the latter to answer. “For temporary note, until the next Hub Admin is prepared. That or Peorth gets her kiester back up here for good.”

Lind imparts to that. “I suspect as long as Hild is in presence of the mortal world.” ..this Phosus nods. Imladris blinks. “Apparently my mind missed much in more than one way.”

Phosus just snickers back and shrugs. “It seems that goddess is more at home there, whence you came, than here at present. However we can recall them each when chance arises.” ..Phosus put, remarking to the family element in effect at that certain residence.

Lind comments on this with looks between Knight and Commander. “I suspect my new love worries that Keiichi's concern for her, is of merit.” Phosus just shrugs. “Which is why I used the word `chance'. Got me sometimes what Almighty sees in that world down there.”

“A land of destiny, bounty and evolution.” ..this the two goddesses look at the suddenly eloquent Knight, this as he finishes.. “..at least where our departure point is concerned. This is part of The Lordship's wisdom indeed.”

Phosus smirks, and just shrugs again. As Imladris is distracted a bit by the three Hub Controllers waving their arms frantically to get his attention, (with his own kooky returned smile,) Phosus informs. “Speaking of Whom, The Lordship requests audience at once.”

Imladris hears this and turns his head back. “Guess we better head on then.”

“Yes.” Lind simply returns, giving a nice soulful gaze in said return.

Phosus takes a moment and looks at the two, and then slumps her shoulders. “Goddesses, you two are going to make me jealous.”

This the two just anime plainly look at the Valkyrie, and then just `huh-shrug' at each other in kind.

--------------------

Skuld just huffed in her room, as the sound of Peorth's favorite soaps - Everyone's Moonlight Tears, dominated the air of the residence. Urd wasn't happy it was not her preference Heart's of Destiny, but at least it wasn't Technology Planet again. Urd and Peorth just watched the latest escapades of some poor guy trying to choose between too many women interested in the dope, of which there was no real plot.

“Won't the guy ever choose? Sheesh.” Urd just quipped, as Peorth snipped at her.. “Se taire!” ..as Urd rolled her eyes, and then heard something shuffling along the hallway. Urd was about to look back at the iffy show that kept nagging her interest, when she saw Keiichi start to shuffle by. “Huh?”

Peorth looked over, as Keiichi literally shuffled his way along the floor. “Pardon?”

The mortal had a rather far away look on his faÃ§ade, one that didn't pay attention to even Urd all but screaming at him from behind.

“Yo! Keiichi! K-BOY! Guy with issues with my Sister!”

Peorth looked around the sliding doorway as Keiichi entered and slid his own door shut. This making Urd huff even more. Just then some serene humming comes from down the same hallway. Urd and Peorth note Belldandy... floating.. towards them.

“Somehow...” Peorth finally quips in comment to Urd's last chide at Kei. Urd blinks and asks. “Uh... Bell?” ..this Bell just smiles, both sweetly, and content as well. The content part is not normally attached, this as the Present goddess imparts with a simple finger to her own lips, and then she floats right by the two confused goddesses.

“What the?” Urd quips, as Skuld pokes her head into the hallway. “Is that Big Sis?”

Belldandy eventually just floats right into the kitchen area, and even slides the door closed, really making Urd and Peorth perk their eyes up.

“Did we miss something?” Urd says, as Skuld pokes her head into the room.

Peorth rubs her own chin, wondering.. “Did something happen between....” ..this in turn make's Urd's lewd-o-meter spike suddenly. “...I wonder if....?”

Skuld hears this and suddenly grows riled, leaping out with arms on her hips. “Okay, what did you two pull on them?”

Urd and Peorth blink. “Say what? / Redire?”

Skuld just snaps back with an accusing finger at them both! “Ohhhhhh! I knew you two were planning something all along! I just knew it!”

Urd just cocks an eye blandly back. “Sorry kid, no idea what...” ..she then blinks. “...and what's this about `something all along?'”

Skuld snaps back. “So you admit that what Sigel was telling me all along was...”

“Tu moucharder pour nous!” Peorth suddenly strikes an accusing finger back at Skuld with!

Skuld suddenly yelps, and backs up. “But you two were going.. hey.. HEY! YEEK!!” ..as two elder goddesses suddenly chase after their younger number in a fit that actually has nothing to do with any thrice of them. All OVER the residence in short, manic order! Eventually Sigel and Banpei come to the rescue, and one big fat battle fest takes place all over the Temple grounds, bolts and snippety comments flown back and forth like artillery!

Not that two others notice one whit.

Meanwhile inside two different rooms, two far more comforted beings remember their own bit of pleasured paradise. Of what indeed passed between them is such only `they' can describe of each other unto.

--------------------

Literally on immediate summoning into the eternal chamber, Valkyrie and Knight alike approach and then bow on simultaneous intent of reverence. Such is their unified movement into the moment, that Almighty is rather impressed.

Already these two melded souls meets The Eminence's approval, such which makes better tools of in the end, such is It's Will in all things.

“:: Please rise my children. ::” ..this Lind and Imladris do on blind command. (Such reverence only needs to be simple like this.)

The Effadice looms before the two as It speaks in profession. “:: Your task is renown in our Auspice, such is also congratulations for your well done work of task. ::”

Lind bows her head, speaking for them both.. “Thank you Your Lordship.” ..Imladris no less borne of helm. “:: And to you Lord Cherubim of Intracel, your victory over Caceroth also resounds in Heaven for all you have done. As does your true return to us. ::”

“I `am' truly well and happy to be returned in full My Lord.” ..this Imladris puts, which Lind looks over with a level smile.

Nearby a `lot' of goddesses look on again, all sorts of silent chatter going on as this meeting continues. Almighty imparts further. “:: Then your reward in hand I need not embellish further upon, and the Violation is attended to. Such is the word from my servants you know by name each. ::” ..this Imladris gulps and nods meekly, as Lind squeezes his hand in imprint of this passing mark. Imladris didn't expect word from the Generals would take `any' amount of time.

Such was the apparent chatter over the System Link, which Lind was so kind to inform a bashful knight of, before they arrived for this meeting.

Imladris however imparts in response to his own heart needing to say such. “My Lord, how can I call this new love of my life, a mere reward? Not when such a word is too small a term to compare to words I cannot express to equal how I feel for the Lady Valkyrie in hand.”

Lind really blushes, though Almighty responds. “:: I would impart that simplicity nonetheless, can lead to direct feelings you can share better of. You will be need of each other as the turn of the page comes. ::”

Imladris gives a good look of longing to Lind, same in kind, a lot of goddesses murmuring in both `aww' and `envy' for the new couple. Lind comments in kind.. “I hope for more than the pages in one tome to pass, where this held hand is concerned.”

“A Library of Love, cool.” Imladris just blurts in to exaggerate all of this. The amount of giggling behind him however, still makes him gulp in meek reaction. Almighty however brings the matter to a different `page' in The next words.

“:: Your task on the turning of the new page, now however comes. I fear I must ally your victory even now, as I impart as such. ::” ..this the two look at the effadice and hear to their growing worry. “What is it My Lord?” Lind in tone kind.

“:: While Caceroth was driven from the mortal plane of High Note, he was not truly destroyed. ::” ..this Imladris blinks. “What?”

“:: ...and nor was Voluspa formally defeated. Her Threat is still very much objective, as much as focused. Her intentions have not changed, this I must ensure you know all too well. ::”

Lind looks over, as Imladris just closes his eyes and calms his emotions that suddenly roiled forth. He inputs with a nod. “Aye. It was Her that apparently shoved that Mandala at me, and took what was left of Caceroth to whence he came. I only hoped that Voluspa would lose her intent for the coming term of her plans, with this defeat.”

Lind looks at the Effadice however asking. “What of Master Keiichi and the family?” ..this phrased to stress the belonging that the lot of them on the Earth Plane deserved. Almighty was not remiss, and nor in the following. “:: That is why you are both Summoned. The original intent of my Title to the Lord Knight present, is not complete.

Not as long as Voluspa remains a direct threat for the foreseeable future to come. A timeline I do not see ending in the short term, this I `must' impart to your minds each. ::”

Imladris nods. “I understand My Lord.”

“:: As such, as of this here henceforth, you are both reassigned to the mortal plane whence you came. There, your task is to ensure Voluspa does not become a furthered threat to my children of below. You both shall work to protect the souls of much of the lower planes under threat, of not only the original world of this conflict, but also all others affected under threat of the sight of Voluspa. ::”

As expected, they both blink quite visibly at this. “So.. we're going right back?” Imladris plainly surmises.

“:: As I said, simplicity at heart. ::”

Lind asks quickly in her normal business tone. “What of my duties for the Consortium, and the Hub alike?”

“:: My Word of Reassignment is tantamount. Others are already reassigned as of this moment, registered in System Hub as I speak. Your focus on the lower plane will be of most importance, as of to each other in acclimating to the world you both are now to return to. ::”

Lind looked over at Imladris, of whom had a swirl of emotions within his own mortal shell, Hope and Fear alike for the most part. He looked over at Lind and seemed to be more waiting for his own response, as she spoke.. “And return together we shalt.”

Imladris however commented.. “Together one thing. But I didn't remember a lot of room down there when we did stay at that place. Already a bunch of problems crop in my mind.”

Almighty of course on cue, seemed to already consider this. “:: Keep in mind, your task will not be centered on only one world now. The galaxy you once liberated is also of the same mortal plane as the destination of my children of Norn. You should keep such in mind in your task to come.

You have much more assets to use than you realize. ::”

Imladris however looked full into and up at the Effadice. “You realize My Lord, that my nature imparts `not' using of too many tools in the first place. Not in a self presumed nature anyway.”

“:: Then use them for your allies. Such things as acceptance and evolution are at hand as it is. ::” ..this Imladris cocks an eye at, Lind looking more blankly for the moment.

Almighty then strikes a chord to imprint.. “:: This is my New Commandment upon you both! Understand and obey as you would of respect for Me. There is no other to discuss here, such as Thy Word, as such is Spoken! ::” ..by time which both were bowed to their knees and indeed obeying.

“Y.. yes we understand My Lord.” Imladris shook his voice upon, the effect quite ensured. Lind imparted to her own. “We thank you for your benevolence and Wisdom.”

“:: I grant your Welcome in turn. Now go. ::” ..a gentler voice returns, at which both rise and depart as commanded.

As they depart, the Almighty keeps his own bemused council, knowing that this task was already foretold in this coming story, upon the Infinite Will. What was to come would shape history itself forever. The gladdened part of it all, was that the story had to be told first.

As such, as the page just got turned.

--------------------

The two depart the Almighty infinite chamber, and the area of the Inner Sanctum for the ever glowing open air walkways of Heaven proper, the light playing their shadows softly off at an angle, as if in the high daylight of an afternoon most softly. Such is not the tone of one worried mortal.

“Boy they probably won't like the sounds of this.”

Lind looked over at the slightly slumped love of her life and commented. “Does not being able to live on your birth world again, please you?”

Imladris just side glances over and smiles. “I think the concern first is `living' there. Sleeping on a hallway floor every night probably will get old for them real quick. I doubt food there grows on trees even now, and who knows what else we have to consider just living on the mortal plane in full measure.

Never mind how the guys down there.. er.. over there.. something.. will really react to this. We need a plan I guess.”

Lind notes the worry furl the mortal's brow and then decides to suddenly grab and glom onto his arm. Imladris looks over and blushes again on unaccustomed reflex. Lind speaks in such kind. “We have each other, remember to account my mind in your troubles.”

Imladris pauses, and then smiles again. “My poor form then.”

Just then a bunch of `aww' sounds float towards them, as Imladris looks back and sees a good gaggle of goddesses in a cutesy moment of strange envy again. “Are they following us?” ..a cock-eyed knight quips. This Lind just huggles a bit more in kind.

The two eventually walk on further, as Lind offers. “I suggest we use a melding of both our resources to accomplish our directive. We can amend our commandment to have reason to over watch the Luna Prison, to place an asset nearby for that purpose.”

Imladris blinks and cocks an eye over again. “Aw come on. You just want to ride my purty dingy.”

“Well it is.” Lind quips back, and both snicker. Lind then offers more. “Using that, we can solve a number of problems in a simple stroke. Can we not?”

Imladris looks thoughtful. “We'd have to keep that thing away from the Terran orbital plane. Their sensors are better than they realize, if they were to discover that little gem. Within a million kilometers for effective transport range and all.

But I'd rather use that ship as a support, not a primary method. That plus the mortals back there aren't ready for the larger universe just yet, and all that.”

Lind just shrugs. “They have to grow up too eventually. Anyway, I imagine other accommodations will arise, with some investigation and trust of our friends.”

Imladris stopped and wondered for a moment openly. “Are they my friends? Not that I say in distrust, but more lack of...” Lind in turn turns towards and imparts. “If you have doubt, then know simply of this.

Belldandy extended her thanks to me, and imparted I should be the one to give her thanks in kind.” ..this she steps into and embraces him fully, his robes rather plushy on their own to glom into. Imladris freezes for a split moment, then recovers and embraces back, still quite unused to all such.

“Should this not be enough evidence on where you stand with them?” ..this Lind finishes. Imladris just silently thanks Bell for such her extent, and hope this was indeed what was reciprocated. He silently then promised that all protection of his own was extended to the Morisato family.

It went along like this for a good long bit, each little conversation to gather thoughts and plans, stopped by a hug or glom, here and there, as they progressed towards the Tyr Starport. After dealing with said matter at hand of need, they are approached by a courier, which informs to this effect...

“My Lord Knight. Commander Lind. Apologies.”

Lind and Imladris both nod to the Third Class goddess, swirling in feathers and a couple of Seraphim helpers, two of the white angelic beings that assist the goddesses all over Intracel. The Seraphim had been so common place as both assistant and defense of Intracel, it was all too easy to discount them compared to their goddess mistresses.

Imladris thought they were evolved versions of Angel birds or such, but was no less `actually' discounting of them either, as he addressed the pink haired courier. “Aye migoddess?”

“The Generals have asked for you, at the Master's call of inclusion.”

Lind just giggles a bit when Imladris sighs thickly. “Like I didn't see such coming. I will be there shortly.”

The courier bows meekly, as Lind looks over simply. “I will then meet you at Gate at the appropriate time.” Imladris looks over and comments. “Where are you going?”

“To acquire something from my own residence.”

Imladris just blinks, but then is `ahem' sounded by the goddess, the Seraphims folding their arms and looking with their blue in blue eyes, impatiently at the knight. “All, alright. I'm going, I'm going.”

At that a smile to Lind, and then a turn to, and a VAST leap into the distance towards Einherjar Fields, enough that makes the still young courier goddess gasp. “Whoa.”

Lind looks over and just smirks at the courier. “Indeed.”

--------------------

“...your toothbrush?”

“Aye.”

“A change of unmentionables?”

“Ergh.. aye.”

“A fresh staple of rations?”

“-hard-stiff chew.. gulp- ...aye, dry as ever.”

“The latest copy of goddess swimsuit quarterly?”

“Ay.. eh? Huh?”

“Dang, almost got em.”

Imladris just looks up from his backpack of white, thick dragon skin, and shakes his head at the `motherly' Generals all hovering over his personage. “Since when do goddesses....”

“You need to give the Lunia Shore a look see sometime. Wonder how Lind looks in a two piece.” ..this Rend puts in again, the author of that `magazine' quip, a good gulp from the still unaccustomed knight in turn. “Uh.. a.. I.. a bit early for all that.”

Hirund just makes a tch-tsk sound, finger waggle included. “It is near summer down there, if I remember the solar cycle on arrival there yesterday. I wouldn't be so surprised.

Knowing how Urd and Peorth like to work in their nominal spectrums.”

Imladris just cranes a dry glance at the General of wine red mane. “I'll keep `that' very much in mind.” ..just as he reflexively grabs something from Mist, handed over to him for such. He does so and looks at the item.... “Eh.. WHA?!” ..and blushes something rather bad.

“What?” Mist quips, looking at the small box of.... um.... really unmentionables. “..those night together mind need use of those. Don't think you want to have children just yet together do.. HEY!”

Imladris just tosses `the box' back at Mist. “That is REALLY too early for all that!” ..he says in a girly tone fit, gasping in aftereffect. His blush isn't helping one whit. Rend just giggles out loud as Mist just growls a good bit girly, in reflection response. “Gee, I try and be helpful.”

“I don't wana know where you got those from anyway.”

Mist just looks coy. “Well, you know how lonely all those petitioners get all time.”

Imladris just lifts, and thrusts his face into the backpack, in a fake attempt to ignore all of that. “I said I don't wana know! Anything at all in fact now!”

This razzing spree isn't helping the poor knightly bloke get ready anymore than he already should be.

The sound of Hirund however makes him look up, of... “Up good Squire.”

Imladris blinks and looks up, then stands fully from his bent over stance at his old bed of chambers. Apparently all his belongings in the pack confiscated somehow on arrival, (literally,) and found here in said old chambers. Here the Generals had brought him, and then proceeded for the good past bit of this motherly smothering activity.

Until now that was. “Aye MiGeneral?”

Hirund then just hugs him `as' a good mother does. Imladris is as expected, caught off guard by this, as then the other two join in just as cutely, in as much caring like.

“It `is' very good and proper you are of us in full again. I wish words could express as much as this bond held here does.”

Imladris just tilts his head at all three in their `triangle' of compassion. He chuckles and imparts in his own nominal way. “My own words fail in kind, how much of my own here.”

A few moments more of this, a bit of catching up after nearly two decades apart in all aspects, Hirund, Mist and Rend then step away in literal simult, so much it kinda creeps out the knight, looking at all three each in faÃ§ade of this mode.

“And now we must let go for truth.”

Imladris blinks and cocks an eye at Hirund. “Meaning?”

Hirund just sighs and bows her head. “Up to now, and I mean this literally, you had been always a Squire in our eyes. Such as how a mother treats a child even well into their adulthood. Such cannot remain, now that you have met all of our criteria of Validation.”

As the mortal looks on, Rend imparts. “Violation is no longer warrant. Lind is now as much of you, as your own Legend in Heaven has becometh. For us, you have exceeded all we hoped of you from the day you arrived unto us.”

Imladris just chuckles and nods. “Immature I was indeed.” ..this Mist just makes a `pppbht' sound and flicks a hand. “Immature would have been a kind word to use of you back then. Lesser you even were of that.” ..this Imladris just groans at.

“: However now there is only one Master for you. :”

Imladris suddenly looks over at the doorway. “Master Thor?” ..which to the Generals look at the War God raising a hand at in remiss of. “: Did you not heed my voice just now? I am not your Master. :”

Imladris blinks a lot, and then at the Generals, as the War God beckons his former pupils attention. “: Come with me. :”

The knight is prodded on by Hirund, sent forth in following. Down a hallway most remembered, well white of angelic marbles and studded with all manner of trophies and weapons of untold ancient wars, all unaccountable save for the High Gods. From there, to the formal Hall of Valor, the throne of the War God stood in front of by the soon waiting Thor.

This as Imladris notes the chamber is increased in size a good bit. Enough to accommodate the at least ten by ten deep and wide square rows and columns of Valkyrie troops, all in neat parade formation. Imladris was shocked (AS expected) to see so many of the troops of the War Section present.

This doesn't last, the gawking at the Spartan gathering, save for now far off walls of usual war banner tapestries and flags, as Hirund prods Imladris forth to the edge of the `wide' white and blue-purple edge run of carpet that ran from the throne, at least a good fifty meters wide, and unknowable long at present. There the knight notes the War God of proper and..

“: Lind? :”

“ALL UNTO ATTENTION!!”

Imladris hears on the crisp voice of Commander Phosus, at the base of the three steps from the throne level to the floor base everyone else is at. Her voice rings and snaps, the same of the commanding gallery of Valkyries that come indeed to stiff attention! Imladris does the same, the Generals behind him in equal reflex.

“Dang she's loud still.” Mist whispers, as Hirund silences her stiffly.

Lord Thor then imparts in a strong tone. “: My fellow warriors of the Host! Today we bequeath a long withheld honor, one we `all' here have long awaited for. :” ..this Imladris hears and starts to realize. “Oh dear.” ..anime dryly.

“: This individual has been of us for over ninety years, mortal world calendar time line! In that time, he rose and exceeded the expectations of what was once beheld as a mere Wish. In the time after, he has been at the fore of many of our most challenging operations, missions of themselves worthy note. But he also is garnered of a Legend all his own!

Not once, but now TWICE has the Soulless Champion been felled at this mighty hand, hence Wraith Lord Caceroth and Seer Voluspa kept at bay, to the safety of all the other Planes!

To this, there is no more even I can teach of our young and MOST fellow mortal of note, here I call to Squire Imladris to present unto me now! :”

Imladris gulps, and takes a squeaky step forward, before proceeding further with more dignified format. Reaching the War God, standing before to the neck height of the great War Master of head length, the mortal makes a snap step on arrival.

“Imladris reporting Master.” ..said calmly at attention, this Thor gives a good, `fatherly' even like smirk at the mortal. This before he looks up again and calls out. “: At Ease to all but this one here. :”

The Valkyries of many, look at, as Thor then informs in a thunderous tone.

“: Lord Almighty Infinite already has Titled this little one, in auspice of his victorious mission of note. The so called Cherubim of the Sword of Light, Templar of Intracel, was it? :”

Imladris cocks an eye, as Thor progresses after a strange bit of unexplainable giggling around, and behind the knight.

“: Now you face a daunting mission, that may come you into contact with more than just Caceroth, ol little one. As such, Almighty has befitted me to give a newer Title to use, in your unknown time to come, of the mortal plane you now depart for.

As such, to also end our relationship as Master and Apprentice. :”

Imladris blinks for real, as he glances a bit at a plain looking Lind for a split second. (At least plain as far as his enamoured eye attests.)

Thor then calls out. “: I here thy redub thee, Valkyrie Knight, Templar-Holia and Hero unto Intracel! So Sayeth is it now Written! :” ...on saying this, the knightly celestial armor suddenly shimmers a good glimmer in short measure, the equivalent of the sword across the shoulders method.

Imladris blinks, wondering where `that' Title came from, as Thor then steps back. “: As of now, we are equals in my Eye. Commander Lind. :”

Imladris hears a good amount of murmurs from behind him, as even Phosus looks in rare amazement at this pronouncement, as Lind in turn steps up to stand just off the right of Imladris, where Thor had backed away from. Imladris notes as she then picks off a `spare' earring, a third from her ear in fact, and has a Staff Scythe-Axe form in her right hand. One she then levels the tip onto the carpet. She then gives Imladris a good business look.

One Imladris has trouble keep a straight face thereof. Thor relieves this impasse, as he notes. “: For your new Station, to take as Standard of new note. Generals...? :”

At this cue, the Generals come up, and tie no less than five separate streamer banners to the bare base, between the fore grip and axe base, Lind holding the Staff Axe at parade rest fashion as this is done. Imladris notes two are silver and black, one of white and blue edging, another green and blue, and the last white and gold in sheen. The Intracellic style of code writing Imladris came to know so well, is explained as Hirund offers. “Of your Standard, are affixed the defeats of Caceroth and the Soulless, the Standard of Honor of all of Heaven, the Defense of the Mortal Plane, and of your new Title and Command.

This of proud note, is of yours, Lord Knight.”

At this, Lind hefts and presents the Standard to Imladris, whom takes in hand...

..and held in the `exact' same manner as had been done when Imladris presented Lind's own Standard at her First Class Ceremony. The touch of adjoined, holding hands on the Staff all too keenly noted, as is the stiff hold Lind has, only giving away grip to a good pull from the knight.

Thor then finishes with.. “: I present Thee Lord Knight of Heaven. Now and Forever! :”

He then hears and it turned unto by a twirl of Hirund's right hand finger, to the now cheering throng of Valkyries, clamoring in tri-cheers, all in about as much as a equivalent First Class Ceremony! One of note `and' detail that lasts a good while, before Lind steps up next to, imparting in a good whisper.

“Now, we are even.” ..this Imladris hears, and get the gist that was meant on more than one level.

Meanwhile, the knighting ceremony, reflected `as' a First Class Ceremony, is indeed cheered upon by more than just those in chamber of present. The Honor of ALL of Heaven indeed is given, from Hub to Mall, to all across the Planes.

Such as the Will of The Eminence displays it unto.

Such as for one that had done so much, and finally given thanks for.

--------------------

The walkway is well shared, in duality here, as the open space walkway between War Sector and Hub, with a good high overlook at this point, overseeing a good valley `depression' of cascading waterfalls and tree interlaced structures all over the place, descending from the heights into forever here.

Imladris found this place an interesting place for a lunch. One he needed a good break to relax his senses with. Being flustered was not a favorite of his emotions. As `both' their Standards flutter about beside them, held in place by mere `placement' beside them both as they sat for this meal, he looks over and quips blandly.

“Aren't we supposed to head back down.. er.. over there by now?”

Imladris's query is stuffed, literally, by a piece of Angel bread, so done by his now equal number of Valkyrie, of all intents and purposes. “Eating is important of first note.” ..this Lind imparts before biting a piece of her own. Imladris enjoys the fluffy, sweet bread, gulping it down as he chuckles in this kind.

He then notes the scenery is well shared, as a few small groups of goddesses of both norm (not Norn) and Valkyrie dot the area, the walkway having both an upper and lower tier here.

Did any of the walkways have anything truly fixed about them?

“Must be a popular spot.” Imladris comments. Lind next to him gulps down another piece of bread, and then comments with eyes closed. “The spot next to me, is such today.” ..this Imladris just cocks an eye over, before taking a piece of stiff beef ration in hand, and then quickly teeth.

The two share this next few silent moments, just literally enjoying, for everything the word means in this moment. Sharing and otherwise. It was hard not to fathom that very little was amiss between the two, Valkyrie and Knight, at this point of time. The two ate, shared food to each other, and heard the coy `awws' and such from the celestial peanut gallery.

After downing a draw of 1000 percent concentrate fruit juice, Imladris `does' have one such remiss come to mind. He looks out commonly over the gorgeous panorama, as he wonders.

He then looks over at Lind. “A query miValkyrie?”

“Yeeeeeeeeees?” Lind quips back, making the knight chuckle a good bit. He settles down to then ask. “I... um... I don't suppose... um... I don't suppose you remember my real name.”

Lind stops in mid chew, and then gulps with a good look at the knight. He sees her blank look and looks down a bit, not realizing this garners a fair bit of attention from around. Lind looks away for a second, and then sighs herself. “Nay. I fear not. You never actually told me.”

Imladris smirks and then shrugs. “Hmmm.. guess it's lost to me then.”

Lind blinks and leans over towards him, as Imladris continues. “I apparently realized this before I went to sleep.. er.. last night. After the Generals left, that be. I realized my mind had forgotten for all real measure. Not just that of memory block of lapse.” ...the knight of mortal rubs his chin in reflection. “Guess I had gone too long without using it. I thought maybe...”

Lind looks downward past his feet, into the white mist of infinity below. She just imparts. “Sorry. I truly am then.”

Imladris then suddenly wipes a quick tear away, stiffing his soul, and dropping the matter right there. “I'm not. A name is only an identity for what others call one by. The true soul can be whatever name it chooses, such as how my current name is perceived here. One I like therefore and thereof.”

Lind just smiles, having long since begotten comfort from his current name.

“At least it wasn't Aragon or such.” Imladris quips at his own expense. “Hate to sound way too common of a mode, of name that I chose.” ..this Lind just giggles simply upon. “Not of kingly mode are we?” ..this Imalde's moan equals her laugh.

The next few moments are shared in further silence, Imladris much more comfortable with himself now for having asked, relaxed and all.

Lind meanwhile remembers that profession, now all of a good two day-cycle ago. It all happened so fast, so strikingly, and actually quite so amateurish at that, that despite, her own ill prepared heart was overcome to the point she had to hide herself from her roof top Temple vantage, behind it to just find a foundation to grip her emotions upon.

One she couldn't at that at all, as it turned out. All she could do was just give into the emotion of that moment, as she showed unto Imladris, as it all turned out. She indeed showed of him, her true self, her twin selves of that moment. How they all reacted, all of it that flooded all of their mutual senses. She never even heard `anyone' else, not even felt anyone else in that moment, except him.

It was so easy to fall back into that swirl of emotion in the here and now.

And so easy was it to express it all, as how Imladris suddenly looked over and saw. “Holy.” ..as well as the other goddesses looking on, as both Cool and Spear Mint appear on whim of their mistress. The swirl of angel feathers around them both just added to Imladris's sense of awe.

Lind felt what she did most keenly, and quite in fact was relieved she had done so. A warm comfort swelled from her, but she still felt a bit reserved about displaying them for some reason. Everyone else aside from Imladris felt a mix of awe and reverence at such a singular sight.

“How do they look now?”

Imladris blinked, hearing Lind's softly put question. He noted she was clutching at herself, somewhat afraid in a light fashion, and remembered that day when he saw Spear Mint for the first time. He realizes and offers.

“How do they look to `you'?”

Lind angles her head and smiles weakly at him, in as much as softly. “I asked you first.”

Imladris chuckled and looked at the smiling pair, Spear Mint with the red eyes, Cool Mint the cool blue. They both with one wing, looked still as beautiful to him now, as they always had been. He guessed she was looking for his singular approval of them.

And realized with a slight chuckle expressed, that this was not good enough an answer to give. Lind heard this and gave a wanting, neutral look. Imladris looked over and professed. “For me to answer is not enough.

I have a better idea.”

Lind blinked twice as he stood up, and then turned to her, gesturing for her to stand. Done so with confusion. He then asks her. “Do you feel confident with your angels?”

Lind (again) blinks. “Yes. Of course I do.” Imladris presses. “Didn't quite sound like it.”

Lind (again x3) just folds her arms (and her Angels likewise,) as she reacts a good bit defensively. “Who made you an expert?”

Imladris leans in a bit. “Just try this one for size, kay?” Lind in turn gives a good stare in turn.

“If you have to ask for my opinion of them, will that do for everything else as well?” Lind blink and reacts off kilter. “Sorry. I'm a Valkyrie, not a Fenrir, `Tyr's hand' of a mortal kind.”

Imlade pucks his lips. “Haha, forgot to laugh. Anywho. I want you to do one thing.”

“Aye?”

“Hug them.”

Lind blinks. “What?”

“Hug your Angels.”

Lind blinks again and Imladris prods his hands in a forward gesture, making hug motions as if he was already hugging Lind, or anyone else. Lind cocks a bewildered look. “Are you kidding me?”

Imlade just snaps back anime big head wackily. “Huggy them now now!”

“Oh fine! Have it your way.” ..she snaps, and gives in, as she has both Mints suddenly glom around her. She feels silly in the first moments of this, as Imladris just hovers and twists his arms extended as he continues. “There.. there.. you have it! Most well and done. Sweet, very very sweet.

Give into it. Give into the power of the gushy huggie.” ..this Lind starts to chuckle as the goddesses around giggle in turn. Lind hears, but starts to feel a bit lost in the realization of the moment.

“There.. there.. ah... ahhhh, the face tells all.” ..this Lind hears of Imladris, his voice in a hypnotic mode. “There.. let them surround and wrap you in the warmth that is your true self.” ..and starts to hear the words more keenly. “Let the sappiness flood you, seep you with every pore of comfort. Ignore the other goddesses aplenty watching now, just focus on the soul within you display forth.” ..and more into like a warm blanket she feels the light of trust ray itself into.

“Yes, the face does tell all. You need to learn to trust your own feelings and comfort. This is where your true self, and your true answer lies.” ..he softens his tone like a pillow most comforting..

“It was not the goddess that needed to lean on, that I fell in love with.” ..this Lind `sees' and feels her own face soften and lighten, worries and cares falling away, with compassion and peace filling in the void left behind.

“It was the confident and forward believing lady instead that challenged and captivated my own soul. Such a person does not need `me' to answer for them. It is the look of that confidence in oneself that I would rather see the answer `for' of me instead.”

Lind creeps her happy eyes open, her Angels of Mints Binary showing this with `far' more openness than they were before.

“Yes. Feel how they truly are a part of you, never as two separate, or three in said case, but that you `are' one soul. Through this you are complete, and you `are' Lind of the Binary, that of one of many souls. Each as unique and belonging as the next.”

Lind looks far more gladdened in turn. “Is that your own truth as well?”

Imladris nods simply. He was so glad now for all those Social the Generals had given him, as well as the lessons on flexible thinking in such situations. He looks pleasantly as Lind is enraptured in her self, a bit actually jealous only so far of the fact such pearly wings were something he could never have in full truth.

Only a shared one, as far as Lind was concerned. He was most content with such anyway, as Lind `really' let go of her own reservations.

She had to admit to herself, he `was' right. She still was too reserved, at least in the one way that her confidence was needed the most. Her own true self.

Her own reality.

Imladris just stood there and let her take her sweet, sweet time with it all. He then noticed however more content sighs all around, and looks, seeing... “Dear moi.” ..as every goddess around has their own angel out, in the exact same manner and format. The huggles are quite replete at the moment here.

Enough to make cavities as it were.

After a while of this, Imladris hears suddenly from a soft spoken Lind. “Thank you.”

Imladris just smiles back, but then quips. “Not so hard is it?”

Lind just considers, then giggles a good bit, and loses her self in that giggle like a giddy goddess. She then reacts with that, and shoves out a stiff arm. “Ohhh.. you...” ..and hits him quite squarely in his armored chest! “Eh? Ah.. EY... EYYY.. EWWW.. AAAOOWWW.. WWAAAA.. utoh... EEEEEEEEPPPPPPP...” ..and more than forgetting her true strength, and his edgewise own spot on the walkway, as she shoves him into a hopping battle to keep `on' the bridge.

One lost as he falls, with a Goofy like yelp!

“Oh my!” Lind squeals, as all the goddesses see with heads struck downwards, seeing a knight in free fall, robes flapping around him like as if a water droplet, calls back up in doppler echo effect. “Dooonnn'tttt wooorrrryyy.. Iii desssserrrveedd thhhhisssssss................”

Somewhere down the long drop to below, he float/screams down all girly like, waving arms like mad, (yes, forgetting himself,) eventually down into a `large' mist laden pool where some of the above waterfalls gather. Splashing down hard, he causes a good tidal, that makes a lot of added screams of surprise waif around with the mist. The knight resurfaces quickly, thankful he's alive, and in a rather deep (heated?) pool.

“GLAGH!! -gasp- ...I'm alive.. oh thank merciful Norns, I'm.... ah... eh?” ..he stops, and looks around, seeing all the scantly... actually.. completely unclothed goddesses of all kinds, many with their own Angels out. Mist or otherwise swirling about their less than appeased faces and stances.

All of them.. quite... um... “Utoh.”

...numerous.

Trying to hide in the water doesn't work with all that power being charged up.

--------------------

“Many they're rough.”

Lind just walks beside an elementally fried and recovering Lord Knight, one covered in welts and scars from all sorts of elemental attacks, as well as all the lipstick marks that cover them `all'.

And there are a `lot' of scars/welts/etc...

“Serves you right for dropping unannounced into the Goddess Baths like that.” ..her Angels Mint still out, nodding in simult at this. Imladris just whines back. “You pushed me!”

“You deserved it. Yelling at a goddess, for all shame.” ..she jokes back in an `uppity' tone. Imladris just sigh-groans and quips. “Yeah, you're right.”

Lind nods stiffly, but inside is laughing her celestial tuckus off.

This mortal sure liked to cause trouble. A good thing when done in proportions at times, she thought.

Imladris just complains as he wipes at his `wounds' with a cloth. “Dang lipstick won't come off!” ..this Lind just replies neutrally. “Goddess kisses are quite eternal, so you know.” ..put in a mock jealous tone. Imladris just gulps and whines again. “But I can't show up on earth covered in lipstick. Urd will just have a field day with it all.”

“Peorth too.”

A knight just moans, slumped shoulders and all.

“Oh there you are.”

Lind and Imladris stops and sees an Infirmary goddess approach from on high to their left. “Aye?” Lind imparts, as Imladris rubs at his face furiously all over.

“Hub wanted me to fetch His Knightship for a last round of upgrades, and other enhancement procedures.”

Imladris stops his manic rubbing, having heard a most unhealthy chuckle from the goddess, `right' at the end of her delivery impart. He looks at her with uncertain eyes. “You just made me feel old.”

Lind then suddenly grabs his left arm. “You heard her. We need to get you to Infirmary.” Imladris balks at, just as the other milky pearl maned goddess accosts his other arm. Worse three separate Angels pushing at his backside as well! “Come on Milord, a last poke for the road.” ..the nurse goddess `chuckles' again.

“Stop that chuckle! I can walk you know! Hey! These arms are not.. stop dragging me. Ack! You two are going to drag this out ain't you! Come one! I feel as fit as if Sleipnir! Let's do this next time I'm in Heaven! AW COME ON!!!!!!!!”

Such whine and cheese continues all the way to Infirmary.

And they `don't' hold back, indeed. -gulp-

--------------------

Shuffling along with moan in tone....

“Hello, my name is Imladris. I was once a healthy and strong willed knight. One day I felt as fit as all Heaven in it's grace. But then I got all these scars and boo-boos and whatnot, and I felt bad. Bad as a day in Nidheg even. My task to serve always meant sacrifices, to go to places and deal with great dangers and suffer at their hands. Never would I feel at total and true peace for my duty at hand.

And now I await to head back to Earth, and unto my next duty, where more untold suffering awaits me.”

He just groans. “And yet I am sore and suffered, and I haven't even LEFT Heaven yet!!”

Lind just rolls her eyes. “Oh stop whining, it's not becoming.” ..floating along this time beside him.

Imladris just pokes at several new welts, and more, `added' to the still present scars and `marks' from earlier. A more than miffed knight just complains back. “This stuff on my FACE isn't becoming migoddess!” ..said bent over, after a nice `jab' to his spinal column to add enhancements `there' as well, gave a good welt and added agitation.

He straightens up with a good groan and stretch, as he complains more. “And `why' did they have to strip me all buck like that? I Praise, you gals are having too dang fun with me.”

Lind just reacts with a cradle of hand on a blushed face. “Was fun for moi as well.”

Imladris just smacks his face and `really' wants a rock to hide under. “Am I gonna make it `out' of Heaven today?”

The two just drag on slowly as the bright glory of Intracel-day shines on, unimpeded by any of the numerous clouds of peal and puffy essence. Around them goddesses flitter by on their own errands and discourse, giving smiles to a soon more effectual looking knight, and a soon hand holding Lind in kind, both in kind once again.

Their progress is soon brought near Gate's outer `zone', as the walkway starts to turn familiar in the celestial infinity that is Gate's demi-plannar residence. However before they reach, a sound catches their ears, and that of a few remaining goddesses nearby, looking up into the infinite blue sky, of..

“Eh? Sleipnir?” Lind quips, as the lot look on high, as indeed the Heavenly steed gallops through the actual sky. All showy and such, as Imladris blinks upon the steed's turn. “Uhhhhh.. i.. i.. isn't that?”

Lind blinks too, as a rather obvious looking `certain' Avatar form rides with ease on the unique mount.

For a moment, the lot watch as Sleipnir is circled about three times, and a good wave given on the last, as the steed is then rode back to whence It came.

“Was that a send off?” Imladris blinks reactively, as Lind just squeezes his hand.

“We may indeed not be of this realm for much time to come, knight of my love.”

Imladris turns his head partially to Lind, and share in this comfort that at least, their new journey is a shared one. “Whatever may cometh then.”

At this, the two turn back and finish their trek, a good bade of respectful farewell now coming from the remaining goddesses, before all fade into Gate's realm. Not too long after they enter proper of the residence, distance shifts on them, and quickly unto the sight of Gate once more. The silvery `landscape' still ringed with code filaments and the air of passing at the edge of a page, and plane alike.

The young, blond goddess bows to them both. Lind and Imladris quickly do the same. “Greetings.”

And then at `this', Lind is surprised with Imladris suddenly has the business like looking little goddess, suddenly shoot over and hug into him!

“Eh?” Imladris and Lind blink, as Gate squeals. “I'm happy you didn't go through with all that sacrifice crud. Oh! Stiff and squishy all the same!”

Lind just levels a plane gaze at Imladris, who just gasps under the rather `tight' embrace given. As if asphyxiation wasn't enough to add to the welts and marks. He just looks at Lind and gasps out.. “..wHat?” ..this as Gate just huggles, with a good care of embrace. One that soon is filled with a soft, muffled sob.

“I am really happy.”

Lind and Imladris hear this, and just look at each other more simply, with a smile soon after. The knight then pat-rubs her mane crown. “As am I. Living is indeed much worth it to me now.”

Lind smiles at this, but soon is annoyed by the lack of personal space at this moment, as much as Imladris is just gasping for air. Dang these -gasp- goddess have a grip. Thought as he struggles some now. Lind soon coughs roughly. “That would be enough young lady.”

“Why? He's comfy.” Gate just squeals again, hugging more anime like. Lind just starts to grow anime devil eyes, as Imladris starts to turn blue. (So much for that living part apparently.)

Uh boy....

--------------------

Urd and Peorth couldn't actually figure it all out. They couldn't get at Bell to find out what happened, and more, Keiichi managed to avoid them `both' when they approached `him'!

“Incendies! What the Goddess is going on here?” Peorth finally exclaims at one point. A good hour and a half after `dealing' with Skuld, left them as lost as ever of all of this. Urd just shrugged, holding her arms in annoyance.

“Something of a secret even `we' cannot access?” Urd comments, knowing from the looks on both Bell's and Kei's faces, something awful interesting occurred between them. This amount of off handed manner to them both as they tried to pry, gave Peorth and Urd fits!

Skuld, tied up for the short moment in her room/lab/something, just bides her time until she can find a distraction to allow these magical ropes to be severed somehow. Having Banpei and Sigel offline didn't help matters.

Oooooooooooooooh, you darn Keiichi. What did you do to my Sister! So thought in facial flush, not exactly very mature at the moment. Nothing at all seems right at the moment either, not of long held norms around here.

As the two were hovering in the hallway, trying to guess what happened. “Keiichi isn't man enough to go `that' far, is he?”

Urd listens to Peorth's quip, and wonders out loud. “Or if Belldandy `was'.. well.. woman enough.”

Peorth blinks. “Ca alors ! That's like thinking Bell is you or something.”

“Or under one of my spell potions.”

“Not that they ever work right.”

Urd frazzles back.. “Or do when messed with.”

Peorth and Urd just growl at each other, a moment before the phone starts to ring. The two look, as does Skuld, gagged and all, around the door corner, as Bell emerges to get to the phone first. Keiichi pokes his head out, giving Urd and Peorth their chance!

That was, just as they are about to `actually' pounce, Bell answers the phones, and a quick moment after.. “Yes Almighty One?”

Peorth and Urd `urk' to a stop in midair, as Keiichi blinks, not knowing (or realizing,) as he quips. “Again?”

Bell listens, and with quick converse, nods. “Yes I understand My Lord. Of course we will happily receive them again.”

Keiichi (and all others behind) blink as Bell thanks Almighty, and replaces the receiver. She looks over at the lot, and announces. “We have returning guests coming.” Keiichi blinks, and then guesses in tone. “You mean?”

Bell just smiles `sweetly' at Keiichi who chuckles simply in turn, rubbing the back of his head. Skuld to the far rear growls all in high muffled agitation, as Urd and Peorth finally have enough. “Oh that is so IT!” ..both snap, as Keiichi looks back, and sees two goddesses hawking over him.

“What the HECK did you two do!?” Urd yells, Peorth snapping in concert.. “En effet!” Keiichi just stutters out. “W.. what are you two...” ..just as Bell suddenly looks past them all, a definite rise in wind speed occurring `again'!

“They're coming now!” Bell says, as she and Keiichi bound past Urd and Peorth, whom get miffed at being dropped like lead ingots like such!

“Merci beaucoup!” Peorth shouts, pushing off Urd to chase after them. Urd growls and shoots after in kind, leaving Skuld to wriggle and muffle in angry gag-speech at being left behind again! The lot of them arrive in such a trail, to about the spot they were at only a couple of hours earlier, where indeed the wind is very high pitched again.

“This place is getting all the typhoon treatment anymore.” Keiichi quips, making Bell giggle more than normal. Peorth and Urd arrive all huffed and slightly disheveled, as the Gate begins to reopen once again. All of a transpose of the same couple of hours old event ago, Bell and Keiichi know by now whom indeed is coming. The fact both `do' know is another mystery, not just of simple guessing either.

Peorth and Urd start to guess as well, not sure if they understand if they `are' realizing whom is coming.

“Didn't they just leave?”

Peorth and Urd anime react with a START as Skuld stands all huffy like, looking at the same forming sight.

“How'd you get loose?!” Urd snips, as Skuld just snickers evilly for a second, her own little secret weapon, this as she tickles a white feather under her chin. “Never leave me alone sisters.”

Peorth just glances back. “I'm no sister to you kid.”

Urd just moans. “After this long, might as rephrase that in a mirror, rose girl.” ..this Peorth realizes and just shrugs. “Peut-Ãªtre.” ..this as the Gate begins to formalize, and two forms, gleaming as effectual as before, begin to emerge from the beam of light that landed them ever so gracefully, as was the author of the portal ever was.

Sorta..

Belldandy and Keiichi both smile, though not without confusion, as Imladris and Lind appear, stepping out from the beam of light, hand in hand, his right to her left. Their empty hands holding their mutual Standards once more, a gesture Lind wanted Imladris to show as well on this arrival.

Peorth, Skuld and Urd look as they can easily see the change as well, as Imladris just looks (actually quite clean and unwelted all of a sudden,) pensive in smile, a bit embarrassed actually at this return and all. Lind just holds tight as before, as the Gate shuts closed behind them, leaving them to their new fate.

For a short moment, a silent wind passes between, before Imladris raises his Standard held hand, as if to wave it. “Uh... sorry, guess we've been reassigned here guys.”

Keiichi blinks as Bell claps her hands. “Oh how wonderful!”

“It is?” The other goddess quip at the same tone, as Keiichi blinks a good bit. Lind just giggles healthy like as Imladris imparts further in added pensiveness. “Sorry.”

--------------------

The crowded living room Kotsu is gathered of all the interested, seated and anxious, variously, as Imladris starts to explain with Lind looking at him... “Um.. Almighty Commanded us back down here. I.. well.. the same problem may not be over with yet.”

Keiichi gulps as the goddess look with reserved shock. “You mean that thing might...?” ..Kei asks conservatively. Imladris expected that, and nods just as reserved like. “Possibly, though he would have to come back to this realm in another fashion.”

“How so?” Urd asks. Lind adds for.. “The Mandala we made, it effectively Sealed Caceroth from this world. However there are other planes and planets in this mortal plane that he may return through one day. Still the expectation of this is not in the short term.”

“But he still can come back nonetheless.” Bell finishes. Imladris nods, much to Keiichi's held breath. The knight however addresses anew with. “As such, Commander Lind and I have been reassigned as your Guardians on this plane, form this time forth.”

Keiichi suddenly looks.... pleased........ in a fashion, as the others react with a mix of hope, and reservation. Imladris finishes. “We are to remain until the Threat is neutralized for certain, once and for all. How and why we cannot fathom as to whit yet, but assured we `will' remain without fail.

The old Code of my Oath applies here, if it is granted to accept.”

“Accept we shall.” Belldandy answers, Keiichi nods with more relief on his face as well. The others still are reserved enough for some unmentioned reasoning.

Keiichi however asks. “Um.. so how.. uh.. where will you live?”

Imladris blinks and exchanges a meek smile with Lind's own. Lind answers for him to the others. “We.. uh.. will remain here, though we already considered the situation here.”

Keiichi blinks. “Hope so, doubt that hallway is very soft.”

Imladris just chuckles with a simple faÃ§ade. “Ah, I've slept on far worse. But knowing anyway, our presence here is to ensure with hope of quick reaction to any move Voluspa makes.

Even if we use unusual means to assure our quick response here.”

“How so?” Skuld quips, Imladris responds over.. “A device of mine is to arrive here, in a couple of days, given time for the System and Gate to prepare accordingly. Until then, guess we rough it a bit.”

Keiichi blinks. “Eh? You `are' going to sleep on...”

“We devised a better method.” Lind reacts.

--------------------

Skuld cocks a most bewildered anime faÃ§ade. “You're joking?”

Imladris just looks over, having traded his armor-accouterments for the same sweatshirt and shirt getup from earlier this same day. “What? I used this back in the old life.”

The goddesses and mortal Kei alike, lean over as Imladris hammers in a last strike to a tent pole. One that stiffens in place, a plain ol looking WWI era encampment tent. All green and ugly/martial looking. Peorth and Urd float around it, poking it in places, as the stiff green fabric gives stiffly to the stiff touch.

“I think I'll go with Skuld on this one.” Keiichi quips blankly, as Bell just looks over the whole contraption cutely. “How darling.”

Imladris just sighs. “Look, it's the only way to ensure accommodations without causing more problems.” He says, giving Lind a look over, as the Valkyrie inspects an old looking bed roll. “Migoddess Lind can sleep with you guys while I stay out here. It'll all work out... what?”

Lind suddenly looks over. “Huh? I thought we were going to `share' this thing?” ..this makes Imladris bound up, much to Keiichi's and Bell's amusement. “HUH? I thought you'd be back in there where there's still room!”

Lind just stands and smoothes her jumpsuit fabric calmly. Done such that tells more body language than is safe. “Oh I see, that is how our relationship will be then?”

“You ain't gonna sleep in a thing like this, you deserve better girl!” Imladris quips back, which gets Urd all a giggling beside Lind. The Valkyrie just quips with an arm fold. “You didn't mind sharing those `plain' rations with me.”

“Did they taste good?” Bell asks simply, as Imladris flusters back in an arm waggle. “Food and bodily warmth are two separate things.”

“Ah, the indirect kiss method already, huh?”

Everyone looks at Peorth, as Lind just huffs back. “Well I won't sleep alone. We were assigned together after all.”

Imladris just rubs his own melon. “I don't think....”

“I may have a solution, if you don't mind.”

Everyone looks at Belldandy now.

--------------------

“Eh?” Imladris quips, as the bunch head inside the actual Temple of itself proper. “What's this?”

“The temple last I saw.” Keiichi says. Bell just walks in further, and then angles toward a off to the right cubby hole, one of several that surround the large temple proper, the Buddha looking nice and large within. The others follow, as Belldandy offers with a wave of arms toward. “Would this not be more room for you both?

I noticed this from time to time as I was wandering these grounds on occasion.”

Knight and Valkyrie note, that indeed, the side room is `just' about the size of a standard apartment room, single and all. A medium sized bedroom if nothing else, and in fact... “Wow, good idea Big Sis.” Skuld approves, as Keiichi just looks with nodding approval. Urd and Peorth float about giving appraisal to the side room, a small window frame lighting within just enough.

Imladris just comments.. “Dunno. Is it proper for me to..”

“For you both.”

Imladris gulps as Lind beams a smile next to, as Bell explains. “Is not a Temple fit for a Templar? And more, a bit of fair work and honest impart can make this more than even what you both intend to bring here. You can both do with it as you wish.

If Keiichi approves that is.” Bell says, Keiichi suddenly chuckling nervously. “Any reason I should not? Just hope that monk dude doesn't find out.”

Imladris just blinks, but then has a Valkyrie all but leap onto his arm. “This will do fine. Thank you.” ..said unto Belldandy, though not looking, enjoying her glom onto the knight's arm.

Imladris just blinks. “Might.... need a few modifications. Still need to worry about cleansings and other such oft not thought of needs.”

Bell nods with a sweet smile of head tilt. “As I said, do with as wished.”

Imladris looks again at the empty `room', and sighs. “Well, at least it has a roof.”

--------------------

Hild just hovered in mid air, as Mara watched pensively from behind. “Great, I thought we were done with those guys.”

“Tut tut Minion.” Hild puts with a coy smirk.

“I hoped it all wouldn't end. So much is the better for this story.”

Mara just sighed, as Hild thought of `all' the possibilities. Later of much however, as the two vanished without trace soon after.

First came the planning.....

--------------------

Urd just loved playing with her concoctions, now that there was more reason to once again. “Hehe, my sweet fragrance is nearly ready. And this time I assure no screw ups.”

Peorth just floated nearby, while the others began to help settle in their two new permanent residents. “Whatever.” ..this Urd just gave a mad look back untoward. “Whatever is `everything' here.”

Peorth just shrugged. Still, she knew a good bit of fun when she saw it all as well. Almost of immediate problem, was clothing, Keiichi realized that Imladris going around in a simple bedroom getup wasn't going to cut it on this world, and the other outfit would get a `lot' of attention, that they decided that a clothes shopping trip was needed.

Peorth remembered when she suggested for Lind to reformat her clothes in a short skirt, loose sweatshirt getup of like, of how Imladris reacted. Poor bloke just never will stand a chance. She giggled. “Pauvre garÃ§on.”

Urd just rolled her eyes. “There's better fashions to use than that kind of skimp you know.” Urd remembers as well, giving mind of how to teach Lind how to dress sexy and all that. Of course Skuld and Bell had other ideas, so ideas and a better change of clothes came quickly.

The simple slim jeans, sneakers and loose plain T-shirt really caught Imlade's eye, almost reminding Peorth of the getup she wore when she tried to seduce Tamiya and get at Keiichi that one time. Still, it suited the plain Valkyrie enough, not enough for these two, as they planned their little tryst for this coming eve.

“What do you think that card was?” Urd asks suddenly, Peorth shrugging, the thing that looked like one of those credit card things that were all the foolish rage for these short thinking mortals. Imladris had found it after all but dumping the deep contents of his backpack out, all sorts of weird items Keiichi thought he'd only see in those fantasy magazines, when the rather unusual looking plastic card came falling out.

“The guys said they'd looking into it tomorrow.”

Urd shrugs and lets her potion simmer. “There. An hour and all will be `fun' tonight.”

Peorth just cocked an eye. “Why are we going to embÃªter quelqu'un, n'importe comment?”

Urd just shrugs. “Call it debt repayment for what they did for us. Plus..” ..a wacky, demonic smirk creeps in.. “I'm bored.”

Peorth just shrugs, but silently agrees with this counsel. For some reason, Imladris and Lind were potentially all that Keiichi and Belldandy were not. Perfect fodder for these games of theirs.

Urd finished and turned around to place a stray bottle of draconian extract, when she saw something move off the sight of her vision. One that she turns toward, and notes. “Eh? Them again?”

Peorth looks up, and flip floats over to the window, as they both note. “Keiichi and Bell? I thought they were helping...”

Urd just looks, their window just angled enough to see them standing together on the grass, holding hands. Urd and Peorth just look neutral. Hardly earth shattering a sight. That was, until they see Bell suddenly glom onto Keiichi, just as if Lind was to Imladris.

Urd just smirks. “Heh, she's the forward one now eh?”

Peorth cocks an eye. “So? It's a hug? .............................................. -gasp-“

The train of that thought snaps silent, as they see the two do something utterly.... “l'impossible!!” Peorth exclaims, as light floods through the window ever so slightly. Urd can't believe what she is seeing them both actually do!

“Is that............. why...........?” Urd stutters, just as..

“Bell? Keiichi?”

Both spin around, as Skuld nears, and then enters sight of.. “Eh? Oh, it's just you two.”

“S.. Sk.. Skuld dear! How are you?” Peorth stutter blurts out, as Urd hides the window with her body. Skuld just rolls her eyes and asks, arms folded. “Have either of you seen Sis, or that doofus?”

“Wa.. wa.. w.. uh.. wasn't he.. they.. with you?” Urd stutters out in the same format. Skuld just huffs back. “No.. gee, that's why I asked you two.”

“Nope, nada, never seen them!” Urd quips back, Peorth.. “Jamais vous s'occuper les!”

Skuld just gives a suspicious look at them, then at the note of the hidden window. “Oh really?”

Peorth shoots after Skuld as she heads out back to check, though Urd by then looks and sees no one out there now. As Skuld and Peorth are heard snapping at each other like rabid hounds, Urd squints an eye and then looks back at her concoction.

And then dumps it in a nearby sink.

“Forget this.” ..she says, as the stuff makes ungainly sounds going down the hatch, as she realizes. “Something far more than a mere potion of need, is apparent.” ..Urd imparts, knowing the history of this Residence is about to change.

No... it `has'......

--------------------

The sounds of not one, but two separate cycle engines at full blare, pass by the sight of a number of onlookers, as two female bike drivers, race at close together, breakneck speed, heading out from the town proper below, and up towards the Temple itself.

Inside one helmet, one certain female growls her eyes ever tighter.

“That's it Keiichi `pal', I want answers!”

Behind her, the younger of the two is no `less' stress eyed, as two females the readers know so well, race up to confront what happened to them.

Oh ye beware Keiichi, of the coming of Megumi and Chihiro.

And unbeknownst also of another mortal now residing.

(End Act IV)

-------------------

(Valkyrie Drabbles - Part Uno.)

He feels a bit of nudging, interrupting his dream of all kinds of goddesses from several different anime. “Uh? Huh? Hey?! I'm sleeping here.”

“Wake up dude!”

Hearing a somewhat `tiny' voice of Keiichi near him, and then realizing his own voice, Imlade wakes up and notes on quick sight. “Wha....? I didn't know we entered Giant Poke Land.”

Mini-Keiichi wakes up an equally mini-Imlade, both jumping to their feet in manic fashion!

“What the!? What happened!?”

Keiichi just sighs. “I think Urd is messing around again.”

Imlade just pats himself over, all chibi and all in his armor snazzyness, and whines out. “I look like an action figure.”

“Are we 1/15th size, or 1./18th size this time?”

Imlade just dryly snips back. “Not the point.”

Keiichi then looks down, and stomps at the `ground'. “Hey? Isn't this a table?” ..this Imlade looks down in time, before heavy shaking makes them both battle to keep balance. “W.. w... w... what... is... s.. s...?”

Keiichi looks around, and then UP! “YIPE!”

Imlade snap looks the same, just as Belldandy and Lind reach the Kotsu table, and sit down. They both look, and `both' squeal!

“Oh how cwute!” ..this as Bell nabs chibi-Keiichi, Lind does the same, nabbing a scampering Imlade, as both just squeal and huggles the stuffings out of the two `dolls'. Lind echoes in same tone. “They look like dolls!”

Keiichi and Imlade each, as a `consequence', get nice and close exposure to both respective cleavages, dress or jumpsuit alike.

“(Not so bad.)” Keiichi says, not quite so for Imlade. “Alright Captain Knight guy, lets go fight evil!” ..as Lind suddenly leaps up and `flies' Imlade around like a Superman doll. Below them, Urd and Skuld just tap their feet, dressed in Japanese style school P.E. uniforms.

“Dang it, they took our Volleyball partners.” Skuld moans, Urd however just arm shrugs. “Eh, shoulda see this one coming.”

“Who's the new guy?” ...as Urd and Skuld look back at Gan-chan, as the rat looks as chibi-Imlade is flown about with little regard to his physical being! Book cases and all that alike! “Oh, that's the new guy.” Urd quips. “They found a real hero for this series.”

Gan just anime cries. “But that's not fair!”

“Still the Fool for you.” Skuld quips, as Imlade turns green from the `flying'.

“And now we come in for a crash landing!”

Imlade YELPS as Lind throws him hard into the hallway! “Nonononononononononono! -scream-splut-“

(Fin - Uno)

--------------------

(Valkyrie Drabbles - Part Dos.)

“Wow, you have a hard head.”

Imlade groans as he rubs at the taped X on his forehead. Keiichi meanwhile looks at Bell and Lind, both also in chibi size. “Wow, never saw you this size before.”

Bell just blushes with a cwute smile. “You never asked.”

Keiichi blinks, was he supposed to ask? He didn't know. Imlade meanwhile is patted on the head by chibi-Lind, as Urd just comments again. “Very hard head. Thought coconuts were harder.”

“Wana feel how hard?”

Urd just flusters a comical hand at him. “Nope.”

Imlade is then pulled by his mini-neck scruff, to his feet, as Lind quips. “Time for our adventure!”

Keiichi and Skuld look over. “Adventure?” ..as Gan-chan saunters up. “Okay, I think I got all the maps for this treasure hunt! Took all of my treasure to get these babies.”

Skuld just makes an eww sound, Keiichi not realizing all the `treasure' from the rock and roll Mini-bit is what got hocked for these.. uh...

“How come they look like old toilet paper?” Urd asks, Gan just flusters. “These are genuine and old I tell you! My supplier got them cheap from some rats in the darkest sewers, I tell ya!”

The `eww' sound all but Bell makes tells the rest, Gan just feels kinda singled out again.

Imlade however looks as Lind gloms all over him, as he sees Gan for the first time. “ACK!”

“What!?” Gan yells!

“A Giant Monster Rat!”

Lind looks and yells. “GO GET EM!”

Urd and Skuld just blink as Gan runs away for dear life, a manic chibi-knight and chibi-valkyrie chasing after the him with mini swords and axes! “So much for our Fool.”

“I thought he was a guide?” Skuld quips.

“Forget that.” Urd dryly quips, as Gan chan leaps all over the place, trying to not be used for XP gain.

Mini-Keiichi meanwhile is huggled by mini-Bell, the bloke commenting. “Why are we here again?”

(Fin -Dos)