Ah My Goddess Fan Fiction ❯ Valkyrie's Mirror ❯ Act VII A ( Chapter 10 )

Oh My Goddess! - Valkyrie's Mirror

 

Volume II

 

Act VII

 

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-Whirlwind, late that same evening-

 

One overstressed Monkey bike comes to a stop, as it's oversized owner wraggles off and pulls his tin helmet of a sort, off. Tamiya then looks back as a he then hears a hefty bike engine pull up, with another large individual, this one with a endearing wife wrapped around his waste. (Quite happily in fact.) Tamiya looks as Otaki pulls aside in his new wedding gift of a Harley! (Honest to goodness even.)

 

“Heys dude.” ...Tamiya moans because of this sight. Otaki smiles a bit off kilter because he 'knows' Tamiya sees the sweet ride. “Heys right back. Sorry about the bike.” ...this as Satoko pulls her own helm off. “My father's overzealous gift from the wedding. But it looks good on my honey poo.”

 

Tamiya quickly starts laughing at the 'poo' part, Otaki just meekly smiling embarrassed. Satoko just huffs a bit at that. “Hey. Tamiya, you could be happy too if you and Chihiro...”

 

“WHUT!?” Tamiya 'and' Otaki reflexively blurt, which brings the owner out into the dusk entry zone. “Hey. It's late to have a fuss out here.”

 

Tamiya and Otaki both spin and stand at attention on conditioned reflex! “AHH!! Miss Chihiro!!” This Chihiro folds her arms at in her civilian attire. Satoko just then grabs Otaki's ear. “Down lover.” ...ala lightly.

 

Chihiro hears and quips. “Oh? I guess the married life agrees with that weird bloke huh?”

 

Tamiya gulps as 'both' newlyweds blush 'quite' endearingly at each other.

 

Chihiro dryly gulps. “Uh... yeah. Maybe a bit too much at that.”

 

Just then a strange chime captures their ears, with Tamiya asking... “Whut was dat?”

 

Chihiro then smirks and sighs out. “More fun I guess.”

 

The quartet ala mortal saunter on back to the still rather bare back lot of Whirlwind's property. (Or just Chihiro's now.) There a fifth verily experienced mortal watches on, as four distinct powers on high begin a special event. Tamiya sees to his surprise... “Whut's goins on?” ...and to Chihiro's following shush, as sparkles of heavenly energon fade from around the arrival of the center of attention, this as Belldandy and Lind, respectively next to Keiichi, watch as Imladris looks over his new charge. Sigrun of singular note, stands in an apologetic pose, in her still mundane goddess goth cloth, ever since her 'liberation' from Hild's 'grace'.

 

“Sorry Master.” ..the said Norn impresses, this Imladris nods, noted in a simple jeans, shirt, jacket garb himself. Everyone else in civvies, Lind pretty striking in a black, slim turtleneck, slacks getup that she got idea from Chihiro of, next to Bell's blue-green checker-striped dress, both just make Keiichi ever the plain himself. (Not that he'd dare ever mind.)

 

Imladris for his part just quips in a parade rest sorta relaxed pose. “Oh, I felt the presence of the wine maned wench of war note. Warily.”

 

Lind got a good giggle from that, since said eye and ear were not remiss in this moment, from afar, and they all had to return to the Temple at some point. Sigrun however was focused on Imladris's next words, as the knight commented. “It would seem the time has come to begin this partnership, though I ask of you now. Are you certain this is what you want?”

 

Sigrun nods. “Yes. I am ready and willing to call you my Master.”

 

The others watching, knowing enough of their history to this point, watch to a growing enrapture, as Imladris nods. “Very well.” ...and looks to the First Class Goddesses present. “Do you both consent to this course about to be undertaken?”

 

“Of course beloved.”

 

“Agreed Cousin.”

 

Keiichi smiles, but then jumps a step back, as both goddesses then fling their hands out, and chant together. “Form a binding circle, to begin the circle of education, between teacher and student. Close the circle to ensure the lessons, and only open after understanding is accepted ever after.”

 

A twin mirror pattern of Intracellic code circles begin to form a Mandala, a light icy blue one meshed and echoed to a deep blue Norn version, both attesting to oversight of this moment, with both subjects of merit within. Everyone watching mortal wise can feel the elements stir about them, as Satoko clutches endearingly onto Otaki, (though when Chihiro and Tamiya realize they are mirroring that, they leap away from each other.) Keiichi just gulps, both from the feelings, and the smile Belldandy then gives to him.

 

Imladris sees all is satisfied, and begins. “And so. By the word of those that Command my auspice, I now am granted authority, to do the same for you. Sigrun of the Norn of Fates, as a goddess of standing, are you ready to accept my teachings?”

 

Sigrun feels something very well needed for her soul. A reason to belong, and of purpose. A bit more than she needs, but... well... “Yes. I am ready to accept those teachings. To whatever end.”

 

“Nay, not to whatever end.” ...to Sigrun's surprise, as Imladris amends... “To an end that is your beginning. Only through yourself, will you find who 'you' are. My task, is to ensure you find that path, through whatever means I can describe unto ye. Only on the day, you know who you truly are, 'and' what you choose to be of purpose of yourself, as a Goddess of Heaven, will our standing begun on this day, ever end.

 

But then, there are no real ends. Only doors to step through. Chapters to turn of page. A breath from one iota and ideal to the next. And... only of my choosing of that day you are of lacking need of my auspice, will the day of Master and Apprentice, ever come of pass, and beyond that door.”

 

Sigrun gulps and wells a few tears. Imladris keeps a gaze only on her, as to keep his own focus away from the lavishing gaze Lind suddenly gives unto. The rest are just mixed shades of proud. Sigrun then bows her head, trying to hide her own tears. “I understand my Master. I accept of this.”

 

Imladris then then takes her right hand, and cups it. “Good, for then your task, is to assure I keep the path of a good teacher. Especially since I have 'such' little experience as such. I assure you, the days can and will be long and trying at times, as are the annoyances of each other where a time unseen will come. But more over, only through our journey, will acceptance come through trials we both must face, though of each other we already are bonded of a darker measure. If we both keep clear of mind to whatever to come, 'with' that past as the guideline, then we can face all trials together. But not just us alone. Others will assist us both to the same measure.”

 

Sigrun notes that she'd have to face things she'd rather not eventually, through this. But hears the same of Imladris. She nods, if of a dour sigh. “Yes Master. I suppose to accept this, will be well too.”

 

“Suppose nil. Will happen. Trust moi on that.”

 

Sigrun gulps, and then nods realizing enough, as Imladris then finishes the chime of Mentorship. “As such, by this Heavenly Contract most unique, by the light of all Stars that shine from all worldly heavens, of all makes and kinds, I call you, Sigrun of Norn Fate, my Apprentice.”

 

“Yes. Imladris of Valkyrie Knight, Templar-Holia and Hero unto Intracel, I accept these terms to call you my Master.”

 

Imladris smirks, and then notes over to Belldandy of main note. “By this, do you consent now to a Second Class, Level Limited unsealing?”

 

Belldandy nods. “This is granted, as an authority of Intracel. By the grace of Heaven do I shine this acceptance through the Circle of Mentorship, unto ye, my sister Sigrun.”

 

At that, the Circle then collapses, directly around Sigrun, and then literally into her! She gasps some as her new license overtakes her senses for a moment, as she never felt such a heavenly presence within herself before. The sensation however is nowhere near that of a First Class unsealing, which Keiichi remembers a bit too much to his blush. “(Don't think we need that kind of scene here tonight.)” ...this Lind smiles on recognition. The report of Urd's own First Class test was of some talk in Heaven, even now.

 

But the effect of most note, is when... “What is...?” ...the shimmer through her, then causes her dark cloth to become of night sky within, as is her grayed, spiky hair somewhat, and her skin shines a bit more than before. Even her eyes are a bit star occluded a bit as a result. Imladris then remarks to this... “You are now tied to the fates of the stars that swim through you. A fitting measure from what I've observed of ye, so far.” ..this as Sigrun's cloth elongates further in places, to be of effective goddess fashion, to match her other Norn Sisters. She then feels Imladris 'draws' a pinkie finger to her forehead, to a simple crescent moon, a complete change from her former Sigil. “And of this, to the moon of Luna that you gaze a lot unto as well. We will find uses for you from these, in the coming time cometh. This I suspect is your natural calling, if I note your gaze properly enough.”

 

Sigrun blushes a bit, feeling like she'd been caught, of all such measure. This as the ceremony then ends with Imladris then remarking. “This then is your first task of my auspice.”

 

“Yes Master?”

 

“Do zilch of nothing unto nothing.”

 

Sigrun blinks. Imladris then is approached from the right by Lind, as Imladris explains. “All I want you to do primarily for now, save for of need to truly help as you see fit, is to be of a relaxed into nothing else composure for now. Given the history we begun as, during that Hildish time, I believe the first thing to teach you of, is to literally let go of it all. All the hate, ill feeling, and beyond. I just want you to enjoy your time as a singular persona, and for now, approach life from this auspice. Little more or less.”

 

Sigrun blinks a bit more surprised. “Nothing... then?”

 

“Enough to to enjoy by. By no means be utterly lazy of course.”

 

“Something of heart there then love?” Lind leans on in with. Imlade just chuckles with his own blush. “Like I have a choice these days. Lady Sigrun however has that choice, and thorough that, to cleanse her soul for further teaching to eventually come.”

 

Sigrun nods. “Okay. I see.”

 

Keiichi watching, can't help but chuckle at hearing of something he'd not readily find easy to do himself. The smile however frowns a bit as Imladris then stiffens his words. “However my Apprentice, do know that I am a creature of War. Bred and scalded by it in many forms and shapes, unto even this day of passing. Remember still that time of corruption, that I must since I am stuck with that accursed Title, Hild imposed. While I may not know yet of a full destiny to come, know that your Master is stringent enough from this, to know 'you' need to know where your heart lies in the ways that I have come to know.”

 

Sigrun gulps away from her fleeting feelings, for one dark enough to understand, a bit much enough still. As such Imladris impresses. “As such, I'd like you to consider for at least self defense, as it is perspective, the skills of a White Wing Class Valkyrie Candidate. Consider at least, given again the prior history. One of many things for you to think of, during your... lazy phase... to put it.”

 

Sigrun giggles as much as Belldandy does, though Lind then remarks. “If this is a course to take, then I would be of 'auspice' to oversee some.”

 

Imlade just blinks. “Uh, you'd have to go through this Master first to... YEEEEEEEEEE!!!!” ...before his head is well and truly viced into!! “A pleasurable challenge there then.”

 

Sigrun just quips dryly. “A surprise I have had perchance, to 'have' a Master unto this point.”

 

She gets chased around and about the open backyard, by Lind, for a bit for that. Belldandy just laughs her healthy measure. “A funny scene to enjoy.” Keiichi however just jitters and eye, as Imlade quips on this. “To think Lind would go Urd on... OW! That one hurt!” ...ala Lind to the knightly noggin. “Watch it love.”

 

“I can't. I think I'm blind.”

 

Some more chuckling as Chihiro comes up with her group. “You guys are too much.”

 

“Enjoy the show eh boss?” Keiichi quips.

 

“Might as well, since it gets on my nerves, just as much.” ...this mostly directed at a butt plopped knight of note. “Oh we try.”

 

Lind: “We?”

 

Belldandy smiles over. “We all do cause our fair share as well.”

 

Chihiro waves that off as the others watch. “Ahh, at least you two know how to control it all.”

 

Imlade just huffs. “I feel the ol focus of disdain again.” ..this he rises to see Chihiro's comical glare. “Want more than just that focus bub?”

 

Keiichi then jumps in... “Ah.. how's the married life going you two?” ...this as Sigrun settles near her Norn sister unintendedly. Otaki speaks in a blushed tone. “Oh... ah, it's just great K-boy! You should try it sometime.” ..this Satoko blinks reserved at, as much as both Kei and Bell both blush readily at! Chihiro just elbows Tamiya, 'for' effect of Otaki, as she quips. “Hey, it's not a dating parlor guys.”

 

Tamiya for 'his' part then adds... “I wudda thought dems two woulds be hitched first insdeads.” ...a finger to two certain warriors! Lind and Imlade take 'their' turn to blush like meteors on a cataclysmic course!

 

Belldandy, (the next pane,) just looks at the smolder that once was Imladris, and quips. “They do make a perfect couple.” ...Sigrun next to her jittering. “A perfect disaster that is.”

 

Chihiro just goes ape on Tamiya for this.. “Great! You just had Lind kill one of my danged stockers! You know how hard it is to replace good help!!” Chihiro then blinks... “Well, replace 'help' anyway.”

 

Lind just stands there in her austere form with a cracking knuckle, as Imlade just moans ala back. “WhAT a lIFe.”

 

He however then soon sits up, which shocks Chihiro kookily. “Eh?” Lind blinking down... “Beloved? ...oh.” ...before sensing too. Imladris nods. “General Hirund is calling. Patiently at that.”

 

Belldandy just lightly teardrops. “Oh dear.” ...which freaks Keiichi (and the other mortals) out good. Imladris notes 'over' to Lind. “Heh. Race ya home.” ...this Lind glints in her eye.

 

And the next panel sees two flaming trails of tire smoke! Chihiro just shouts. “DANG IT! Stop trying to kill the road and everyone on it!!”

 

Belldandy then offers. “I can make us all a treat when we get home.” ..this Chihiro woots at readily. Satoko beams back. “Oh yes please.”

 

K1,Tamiya and Otaki just teardrop in response.

 

---

 

Lind just openly laughs... “Thirty times now! Wow, you are sad!”

 

Imlade just moans. “Yeah yeah, still can't believe I let you talk me into racing back here and back for a five minute lunch.” ..this Lind smirks over, leaning on her Valkyrie bike, tossing her helmet up and down in her free left hand. “Now, don't be a poor sport love.”

 

Imlade just huffs away at this, hardly dissuading his amorous blush all the same. The two however are soon accosted by the noise of approaching engines, as the same lot from Whirlwind arrive, save one. Chihiro looks up in her helm. “Eh? You only just got here?” ...this as Sigrun flits in quickly from the moonlit sky, to the surprise of the others (mortal.) “They took a longer path around that usual roadway.”

 

Keiichi smirks. “That's another six klicks past Inryoku. Where's the cops at?” ...with even looking around for sirens. This Lind smirks and Imlade shrugs. Bell then slips out of the Beemer sidecar. “I'll go make us some tea.” Keiichi beaming. “That'd be great Belldandy.” ..this Chihiro then leans in blandly. “Uhuh. And you two 'aren't' married yet?”

 

“Do you mind!”

 

The lot then ascend the steps of an ever lively place, as Otaki asks of Sigrun. “How'd ya get here so fast?”

 

“Heh. Guess I fly at the speed of light.” ...this Imlade quips back. “Nice one. I like.” ...this with a bonk from Lind a bit. “Watch it ol slow one.”

 

As they all reach past the Temple entry arch however, Chihiro notes. “Huh? Where is every... one...?” ...this as they reach the leading pathway to the residence, and hence when a 'lot' of various souls suddenly spring their trap!!!

 

“YEAHHHH!!!!! / YEEEHAAWW!!! / // ATTACK!!! / / BANZAI!!”

 

The manic-aggressive sight, aimed mainly at a knightly bloke, makes Imladris's combat reflexes go snap too, as he chants with clenched spell of hand! “Break the momentum bonds, to halt by my hand!!!” ...which kills the momentum of that many attacking, in dead midair!! The others, shocked by this entire act, have to take a split moment to realize they aren't all pasted! Lind of note remarks at Imladris's reflexive reaction. “Nice one. I like.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

This as no less than Urd/Troubadour, Peorth/Talos, Mara, Sigel/Banpei/Scetu, Velsper/Celestine!?, and Skuld, all are held in midair suspension, after an all apparent, encompassing attack attempt! Belldandy gulps... “What in Heaven's name?”

 

“Ahh... think we flubbed that one up.” ...as Frigurina of common Japanese civilian garb, appears from the Temple. Chihiro of note. “Huh?”

 

Sigrun just snaps. “What the blazes do you mean mother?” ...this Imlade looks blandly back at, as Frig explains. “We were just trying to get one on my Nephew here, since it was Sentaro's idea.”

 

Most look... “Sentaro?” ...towards a meekly waving soul, standing at the residence entrance. When Keiba/Megumi and Takano/Keima soon appear as well nearby from within, it's apparent to mind to Imlade, how to respond.

 

“Sentaro huh?

 

Good show lad!!”

 

The offending are 'still' weirdly in midair, as Imlade actually hops over and high fives the bloke. “Now this is what I call a tactful mind! Replete and resourceful!” ...Lind accents with a complementing pat of the lad's back. Most others just pass by the immobilized, as Sentaro simply chuckles. “Heh. Aww, I was just going off what... uh... Hir... ur...”

 

“Hirund lil pup.” ...this from between both main structures of dusk shadow in appearance from. The Goddess War General just sees Imlade smirk at her. Sentaro adds. “Yeah, what she suggested.” ..though Imladris amends. “Ah, though I suspect whence the ideal formally was engendered.”

 

Hirund just floats over, imposing... “Oh do be appreciative of a young kith mind, one that just wished for seeing some action this eve. It would seem you require a toe in standing approach at times.”

 

Takano blinks and tries to translate as she looks at Keima. “Uh... keep... on his toes, was it?” ...this Keima just shrugs.

 

Sentaro just gulps back. “Well, the lovely lady was just asking if I'd seen enough sparring sessions, between ya and Lind there.” ...this as a Skuld sponsored growl makes Chihiro pat the frozen in place noggin. “Down girl.” ...as Hirund blushes kookily. “Aw, now you can't blame me for putting a slight spell to see if they all could pull one past ye, now could I?”

 

Imlade just blanches back. “Blame unto force I can.”

 

Hirund just gleams her dangerous glint in return, as Frigurina then flicks her fingers, literally dumping the frozen lot in a rain of yelps! “And ye all better move to the hazard of my soon in deceased Nephew.” ...this as Hirund smirks dangerously. “Does that blame accompany my Axe as well, lil pup?”

 

“Oh.... aye.” ...a Thor clone like battle lust on the tone. Lind senses and smirks dangerously as well.

 

And the rest scatter to the residence, as Sentaro pump fists both hands! “Alright!” ..as he then is accosted unto Skuld's manic eye! “Who said you could call anyone else pretty like that!” ...before a distinct 'tink' of a sound comes from Hirund's ear. Imladris clenches and remarks to the others. “Clear us some space.” ...as Lind sees Morphemic come unto her love's hand. The golden staff Axe of War and the Blue Diamond blade are a sight to see! The knight however remarks to Lind. “Your choice.” ...before to Sigrun. “Learn as I said prior.”

 

Lind's earring 'tink' is heard as well. Sigrun just finds spot at the top of the Temple, the rest behind Frig's erected shield.

 

Hirund smirks. “I was hoping for this.”

 

To her defensive catch of Imlade's first high stroke. “Good.”

 

And to his duck of Lind's axe next, the dance starts. Sentaro, Urd and Talos just start wooting, the rest just lost in looking at another deadly dance witnessed anymore, this one however not of the expected norm. This alone attested to how HARD Hirund smacks into Imladris's blade, even as he's attacking! “Oh lord and goodness me oh my.” Frigurina has to admit. Belldandy this time withheld describing what was seen, the intensity of it all too much to puts words to. (And almost too much to stand.)

 

As noted, Hirund made ready assault of any attack Imladris parried at, though Lind was as ready to attack him back in kind, the immediate moment seeing a two on one battle, with the 'one' fighting off both Valkyrian assailants with great difficulty! This started on low as Hirund and Lind used a float on high advantage to stymie Imladris's initial spur of war lust. Imladris made most initial sparring upon Hirund, and shunting where forced by an expert assault by Lind. This quickly turns to Imladris defending for quite very his life, as he backs up under alternating Axe pressure!

 

He grunts this off within a few parries of this, by leaping up, after shoving Lind's Axe into Hirund's! Lind tries to follow, but Hirund cancels that as she flips her Axe to literally yank Lind's attention back at herself!

 

“This is not an allied fight.”

 

Lind shunts her Axe forward, and brings her elbow to Hirund's chin, caught short of connecting by Hirund's shifted right hand! Lind spins reactively to try a back left elbow slam, but Hirund is just as dynamic in stepping back. Lind stops as both note above an incoming monolithic assault, as Imladris just hollers in from above with a massive double sword as his reformed intent! Both Valkyries catch the assault, a blade each, as Imladris snaps... “Does this meet your fancy?!!”

 

Hirund grunts and shoves her shimmering Axe to take full momentum of shoving Imladris off towards the open area between both Temple structures. Imladris however doubles back, before he even sees his weapon lose contact with Hirund's. Hirund takes that momentum and flips Imladris away to his landing near the Temple steps, in severely short a fashion! Lind tries to get meddled into this by going after Imlade again, but 'again' Hirund intercedes and shoves her Axe into Lind's stiffly held shaft!

 

“Pardon Commander, but I taught him, if you'd care to test me of!”

 

Lind gasps, as Imladris watches the General exactingly test Lind's absolute combat senses! This as the two enter a multi-parry sequence that balks the experienced First Class badly, as she's not used to fighting a formal Valkyrie General unto that moment! Lind however makes good her patience, despite how hard Hirund assaults her from all but every side and angle, as she remembers indeed her love was taught by this representative of the War Section creme de la creme. It's noticed readily by the General by the twentieth series of this exchange, as Imladris can see Lind trying to learn the General's movements. Lind ends the exchange by leaping up to let Hirund beat her off with, as most assaults would end up, as in a breath of moment.

 

One that was not present however. “Burn the fires of my gaze, as a weight to scald by!!”

 

Lind gasps at the pure speed the spell is cast, as Hirund uses her combat movements to call her spell pattern for her, as a strange rubicon flame bursts from her Axe, and pours around the assailed Commander! Lind gasps out in kind! “Shield of the brazen elements of the utter North!!” ..and throws a strong shield up, one that sees too much of the General's spell breach through quickly and fully despite, mainly aimed at her legs! She gasps as a burning pain literally sucks her legs of feeling, and drops her to the ground! The rest of the Shield however prevents her remaining body from being so scalded!

 

“I... I can't...”

 

Hirund sighs, a touch spent from such a spell. “Your legs have had their metabolism expended, lucky you prevented the rest of your body, of the same fate.”

 

Lind gasps back. “But to penetrate of such ease. I...”

 

Hirund would have explained, but had to save it, as Imladris punches in, literally. Hirund keeps the said punch from her face, as her hands welt instead, a good ding to her golden shaft as well. “Dear me.”

 

Still the others dare not utter, as Imladris huffs back. “You know I personally don't approve.”

 

“Nay. A lover shouldn't.”

 

Lind smirks, though she is jittered at being so readily overwhelmed by the General's power. Her convoluted thoughts are as cut short, as both General and Knight swiftly clash again, Imladris trying to keep good on his version of experience with this impressive warrior. Their quick reconnect exchange consists of Imladris over smashing his attack, then spin slipping under as Hirund avoids a low kick, to deliver a spinning upper over spin cut, that Imladris uses his spinning momentum, to face behind him, and push away at, as Hirund lands and changes a vertical spin to a massive over arc Hirund spins from a counter clockwise spin, which Imladris deftly clips off and slips under again into a quick roll and doubles back again to catch Hirund already behind him somehow and delivering a behind his back attack he catches to his... “YIIIEEEPPP!!!”

 

Hirund kicks his exposed back, past the blue diamond weapon, but sees it left behind, as Imladris sails away enough to give space for his Incarnum Push, to smack Hirund across the chest with his weapon, catching her upside down position just as readily as his own exposure had bequeathed. Hirund of course battle roars back by attacking Imladris with both weapons in hand, Imladris standing a Titan's amount of firm ground in catching both hands of both weapons, as well as a wicked knee to his chin along with!

 

The two wrestle using the ground and their appendages to clobber at each other with, before Hirund just has enough, and OUTRIGHT tosses the metal headed bloke into the moon night sky!!! Keiichi as much as the rest hurt their necks as they snap looks up 'that' fast. “He got creamed!!”

 

Urd however flits a hand... “Phhht.” ...as Hirund expects a split moment later, and the crater of about her body area shape, as one stands, now twice her height underground, with her godson the indelible cause! Which of course is followed by Imlade's form being SMACKED back out into the night sky again!

 

And then Imlade trying to repeat the same attack, which Hirund has zilch of, as she bursts out from a separate portion of ground, about at a forty-five degree angle from where she was underground, leaving another sharp as clean, exit hole! The exit point however, Imladris snap shoots at from the first hole, at a ninety degree angle, enough to wrench his body in agony from, to try and catch Hirund flatfooted!

 

And gets grabbed in the head and slammed into the ground face first for! “Fine try pup!”

 

Hirund then feels her fabric yanked and 'she' goes for a tumble, rolling to a hard stop near the others, stunned in shocked agape! Chihiro just shakes in fear again some, her usual attempts to wean her stock 'god' into a sense of normalcy, ruptured against this brutal reality! Hirund this time however lets the moment settle a bit, as she raises her head, and sees a good and battered pupil rise, scarred, but intense as ever.

 

It didn't take much... Hirund smirks, as she flip-hop rises to a cartwheeled standing motion. She then flips her Axe to hand, she notes a 'bit' of a glint in Imladris's eye, that she sees something to object to. She tested it with... “So, are you fearing your showing will put your beloved's abilities too far below to stand?”

 

“Her abilities are exemplary! You think your power is better than ours?!”

 

It was enough. Hirund suspected Imladris knew what was coming, and decided to see the result through. She snaps a look to Frig, whom clenches a good stare in preparation, as did for her Shield for everyone. Hirund then brought out to the shock of the gathered, her Angel, a copper-reddish maned Angel of archetypal note, save for the single ruby red streak, from the upper right shoulder, to the lower abdomen where the angelic cloth swirls around. Imladris sees Leader's Power and swiftly brings Evolution out to match! Lind gasps. “Beloved! Wait one!”

 

Hirund has zilch of that, and leaps up on HIGH, as Imladris snaps a powerful spell... “Lens against the breach of force that would defeat this power!!” ...as a strong gravity based shield spell forms to both try to breakwater, and sap the next incoming attack! Imladris was a bit surprised that doing all that wasn't as painful as normal in application, as Hirund made good, a simple application of amplification through her Angel, into her simple assault of a side kick, her Axe glowing along with, from about fifty thousand meters!!! Imladris realizes the distance of momentum, and shoots up to use the shield to become ablative of a fashion.

 

He however only gets to about one hundred meters up, before Hirund already closed the distance and just outright shreds through the entire Shield, it's author and Angelic Partner both just CRUSHED into the ground beneath! How deep is not bothered, as the pure rebound when Imladris 'hits' a stiff enough level of rock, actually rebounds him severely back up to the surface!! Evolution already just vanishes from the pure pain of impact!

 

“COUSIN!!” A Norn familial combined yelp, as Lind gasps at such a terrible audacity witnessed!! The mortals just lost their last feeling, as Chihiro just faints readily and all. (Good catch Tamiya.) Hirund and Leader's Power just float upon the exact one hundred meter point of impact, watching as Imladris shakes quite visibly.

 

Peorth shouts unto above! “Mon dieu! What have you done!”

 

...and not just from the mere kick. Her Axe is now somewhat bloody, as is the whole of Imladris's left side of facade. Lind just uses her utter empowered panic to shred through the spell trap Hirund erected, and is so noticed, as the Commander reaches her crumpled soul mate! “Love! Love, speak to me!!”

 

“Urgghhh..” ..is the bare first returned.

 

Lind... “Oh Almighty, tell me you're...”

 

“My.... arm.” ...the second...

 

Lind blinks, and looks down to see she's leaning fully on his right arm! Lind gasps-jumps off as a result, but still in close contact. Sigrun, Talos and Peorth approach, the only ones daring to come close enough, as they see Imladris's left face is crushed, blood seeping readily from his mouth. Imladris can feel his face and teeth there crumpled, his ribs below, and likely his spleen ruptured along with. Probably the usual punctured left lung too. The nanites feeding him 'damage' data, of a sort, that his senses were already aware of.

 

Lind looks up in aghast shock at this. “How....” ..this Hirund just keeps a serene smirk.

 

“-Bloody cough- It's.... okay.”

 

Peorth sees, and this time 'she' faints, Talos shooting up quickly to her, as Sigrun gulps. “M... Master?”

 

Hirund smirks thrice fold from above. “You 'know' it's been awhile.”

 

Lind blinks blankly, very much despite herself, as Imlade just eyes up with his good (at the moment,) eye. Belldandy now runs over, Keiichi reflexively behind, as she starts... “I can help heal...” ...which Hirund holds an arm up against. “Nay my Lady Norn. His regeneration is already occurring as it is. As powerful as his abilities merit, they are. Still enough a sight to remind to stifle that bit of prideful soul, you think is better to show 'me' of? Correct pup?”

 

Lind got it on the spot, a broken smile given back to them both from the way lorn.

 

The rest would need to wait ten minutes for the nanites to catch up.

 

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

 

Sentaro just jittered out. “Sorry cool dude, didn't want ya to get hurt like that.” ...this Imlade readily waves a hand. “It's been in my job description for a long while now. It's only healable injuries, in the finality.”

 

The one thing for a lot of stunned mortals and deities and all, watching and listening present, was that they were willing to listen, to what they didn't understand. Lind being that one step ahead of them, listened, as a somewhat more easy to look at knight remarked. “Not bad for a good reminder, gentle and all that.”

 

Hirund smirked as she enjoyed some of Belldandy's best brew. “Well, you 'were' not of armored note.”

 

Keiichi just leaned in at gold dude! “Gentile?!!”

 

It was a bit kooky after that, seeing Takano then lean in on Keima. “I'm so sorry for all the times I hit ya love.” ...whit Keima blushed badly at. Skuld and Urd then anime cry to each other. Both: “I'm so sorry for all the fights! Whaaa!!!” And Chihiro (awake) semi-sniffing to her old cohorts. “I'm sorry for terrorizing ya both for years.”

 

Otaki/Tamiya: “Oh our Lady Chihiro!”

 

Chihiro thankfully sees Satoko just ear nab Otaki. “I've only just started, you know.”

 

“Owwie.”

 

Tamiya looks at Chihiro for his part, and the dry glare in kind just kills Chihiro's previous mood. (Not so fast I.e.)

 

Mara just anime cried to Urd. “I'm so sorry for all the years I smacked ya around like I did!”

 

Urd just twitters an eye. “And when was that again?” Whit Mara bursts a vein!

 

While Sentaro then gets a needless load of this from Skuld, (for the lil Norn's own reasons,) Lind then comments to Hirund. “I... I know I've watched you both spar over so many years. But I never... well... I never expected such an over ease of power to break either of us down with. Is that what a...”

 

Hirund smiles simply. “The power of a General of Heaven, of the Section. You are wise to fear it, since you are chosen to be one of a vastly elite few in all of Heavenly Archive History. The Platinum Wings of War Command are not for the meek, even for the most stringent of the War Section Core.”

 

“So I've endured for so long.” Imladris remarks to. Hirund readily lets him expound upon, as she enjoys Belldandy's best, the same as enraptured as the others, to a quick hazard. “I remember the 'worst' effect of that, one time, when all four of you, Master Thor included. Just punished me after that mission to liberate that slave camp from those Orcs. Guess saving a few million slaves got to my head. I tried a bit too much, over indulgently, to impress my powers, and my ego that one day on the Fields.”

 

Hirund just hums agreement through her sips, as Sigrun asked. “Punished... Master?”

 

Imladris actually makes it all sound like a joke. Hardly. “Broke my back in two places, and just shredded my insides from all the rest of the broken bones. Was in Medical for a week healing, and in traction for two more after, while the nanites caught up. Oh, thanks for making me spar through all that too during also. Medical sent their regards pretty loudly unto me, all during that bit.”

 

Most, and almost Belldandy included, go pale, as Hirund just snips back. “Pride before the Fall, little pup.”

 

Imlade in kind. “A price for all that praise as well?” Hirund just slurps, then quipping back with. “And only four more times, including today, have you needed a proper lesson, that your power still pales before ours. One not needed from Hild's own stupidity, from our sakes. Nonetheless, lessons mean wisdom. Not all lessons are pleasant. Tonight no less.”

 

Lind blinks over at Hirund. “But. When Lord Thor said of being equal to beloved at that ceremony...? How can...?”

 

“Another lesson of what will be, of being a General, and of how much power the Council on High, truly holds.” ...this she cocks a serene eye at Keiichi of. “You should note that, from the report of your Lady Belldandy's unsealing.”

 

Keiichi choked at the sudden though. “But... but I thought...” Belldandy next to him, ever and ever, comments. “Yes. The Council up to our Father, are powerful and responsible enough to not requiring Seals, as they naturally are in Heaven. Which is enough of a surprise when Lord Thor descended when he did.” ...this Frigurina just moans. “Which is why my attempts to change my family code away from the bloke, goes awry so often. Gods what a lunk head!”

 

Chihiro just quips. “Know that well.” ...Tamiya/Otaki: “Huh?” ...Satoko: -giggling-

 

Lind comments. “Which is why the few that aren't, never come here to this plane. Not.... without.... oh lords, is it 'that' simple!?”

 

Hirund takes another sip.

 

Keima takes the mantle Keiichi usually absconds, and considers from what he knows. “A matter of control.”

 

Frig nods. Belldandy laments. “There comes a point a Seal is just a matter of responsibility lacking, where Almighty sets all rules for such. But it also is a matter of true self control, whether a Seal is necessary. For Hild, her seals were primarily involuntary. If I remember correctly.” ...this Frigurina nods. “Hild was forced with Seals, when she went out of control during her Fall. But keeping them on her has become less of a constraint anymore, as Hild eventually realized, she could command her Seals, in favor of pure self control.

 

A Seal is as much a physical barrier, as it is a barrier of the mind, and will.”

 

Urd of note sighs at this. “Is that why I was exchanged for Sigrun?” ...this the Fate Norn looks darkly upon. Frig nods, knowing Sigrun is listening. “It's a very delicate balancing act there. But yes, we fully did fear you losing in to your potential power, in the same manner that Hild lost hers. The Lord of Terror and the split asunder bit just demonstrated our reservations. Since you know what First Class powers feel like, you can extrapolate from 'that', the level Hild commands. Hence all our overreaching worry, if not the reason for my part. Stress the word 'command' however. Before Hild realized that, the Seals kept her Power lust in check, and the rest of us in existence. It fully comes down to that.”

 

Hirund nods. “For the Generals, along this line, we are the only nominal goddesses to be able to exist as unSealed beings. This is why we are that one step below the Council, and 'their' powers. And power is not just energy and force. It's an extension of the will of Almighty, by his Rules, and everything He can do at a Whim. The power entrusted to the Council beyond this, is on the expressed understanding, that they can control it without fail. Their tenth dimensional being makeup and format, can then handle all the information and abilities that accompany, their chosen areas of influence.”

 

Imladris nods, his left eye starting to open back up. “Their ability to reshape things according to their Portfolios.”

 

Hirund: “One cannot do that with a lack of self control. The power to only destroy, is a pointless iota to approach power with, after all. It's not in Heaven's, or Existence's best interests in the end. I believe that is why Hild now understands this, and everything else we conduct as Celestial Rules and Bylaws.” This Frig nods in agreement.

 

Keiichi nods. “So the Seals are there to prevent those that don't understand how to control their power?”

 

“Mostly. Emotions are a part of that, which is why usually the Council removes themselves from lower dimensional affairs, as they do. Or would, if not for the fact their Portfolios affect the same so much. It's a deliberate balancing act, to ensure the responsibility of said power, is contained to what it is all meant for. The gods can be... petty... to be succinct, as far as the emotionalism goes.”

 

Takano gains as much appreciation. “An the gods are removed, ta prevent their stuff from hurting others so directly.”

 

Belldandy nods. “The goddesses below them are the usual ones to handle affairs for them. Our various Offices are the ones to most contact other worlds, as we learn our own responsibilities from the same.” Peorth smirks over. “Even if we compete with each other at times, for all the same.” This Bell smiles simply at, though Talos near Peorth gulps a bit at the 'smile' Peorth is giving.

 

Hirund then chides. “Learning and all such indeed. So emotionally involved to unSeal oneself, for the love of another. I'm readily surprised Almighty let you off the hook for that one, Lady Belldandy.” This unto Belldandy just blushed. Keiichi however snaps back, to a decent look from Hirund. “Hey, she did it more than just for me you know! That whole Lord of Terror bit, didn't help. Where were you all back then?!”

 

“Watching.”

 

The rest look at Frigurina, as she smirks. “A mother places trust where needed. Such is whom and why you are not all frogs at this point.”

 

Three Norns and their original mortal of Contract, just whistle and look away. Takano just moans to Keima. “Your son is such a problem.”

 

“Mine?!”

 

Megumi then eggs Keiba the same. “Are we going to have such problems?”

 

“What does 'that' mean?!”

 

Two similarly named males just endure jittery all such, as Hirund then sees Lind's reservation, and impresses. “As I said, the Generals are the only goddesses to hold unSealed power, of enough equivalent note, to the Council. But we hold only one portfolio between the three of us combined, my Sisters and I. The Command of the Valkyrie Order. It's only one part of the whole War Host of Heaven in the end, the one Almighty sends on missions more, than any other part of the War Section. This mainly due to the Doublet Code, and other mechanisms that prevent a formal War.

 

A surprise to be sure Hild was so willing even still, to accept such conditions indeed, of my opinion.”

 

“Maybe.” Frig cocks a look at a reserved Urd.

 

Lind then gulps. “So... you have a true sense of your own control, of the power kept unSealed. But how do you keep your emotions in check?”

 

“We don't. We keep the power in check, and measure it out at a whim of our own, where and when needed. The responsibility is a true mindset of power for us. We are very strict in these regards, as a matter of our own training and upkeep. We 'can' Seal ourselves, and of each other, if needed, which is another of the many checks and balances a General must be weighted under, while wearing the Platinum Wings. It's a truly far cry from the Gold Wings of your, and other related Commands, that don't have to consider that usually, in your daily mettle.”

 

Lind feels enough of a cool pit in her stomach, to then look at Frigurina. “Is that why you're here Sealed?”

 

“I didn't want to worry my kith while I was here. The Seals make for one less such, while I reside here. As said, it's a willing choice to make. If one however cannot command that power properly, by judge of my Husband, then it's not bestowed. It's a measure of all the Tests conducted, including the First Class test, and it's trials.

 

And my Husband 'can' take that power away if needed, as Celestine demonstrated.”

 

A nearby canine whimper seemed to strike that chord somber. Imladris hazarded out to this same. “Is that my path too then? Either way?”

 

Hirund looks up, no one realizing the nanites are haling his extremities well and effectively now. “It should be obvious to you, if you let go of your angst of it all. In the end, just like everything else you say of, power is nothing more than a tool. If you also disregard the angst from your Dark Lord experience, it should be relatively easy to accept.”

 

“I learned that lesson then.” ...the whole lot knowing of that historic incident. “I just wonder if it is needed for Caceroth and Voluspa.”

 

The whole lot are silent. Hirund however cuts that off with a smirk. “Roundabout and speaking of such that.” ...as she then fiddles into her cleavage, her Greco-roman cloth giving little need to the imagination, as attested by the males blushing away from. Urd of most note, just smacks Troubadour to the floor for... “What ya gawking at dope!” ...while Skuld just covers Sentaro's eyes. Any further female 'control' issues, are halted in check, as the General then produces that pearly card. Frig coos a bit to the surprise of most, save Urd, as it's tossed to Imlade. “What be this?”

 

“A showing that, while your power is not of approach to ours on high as fully yet, one aspect even we of Heaven, cannot approach, is then instead of far greater merit. This by Almighty's most expressed Command.”

 

All eyes are enraptured at the knightly bloke, as he flips the card over, to a gilded inlay of silver and blue diamond, glowing gold lettering to be read of, with Lind over his stiff shoulder. “Eh? Be it known, that this Age and Eon sees the convening, of a new Hero's Ball.” ...the goddesses and spirit of the gathered in gasped shock of amazement, Imlade looking up warily and then continuing... “Be it and is so, to commence at the apex of the formal apex of Lunia, above the Heavenly Horizon, for the celebration most honorable of attendance.

 

This be for the Name of Imladris, Valkyrie Knight, Templar-Holia and Hero unto Intracel, to Command of attendance, without fail. So Sayeth well and Done. Wha!?”

 

Belldandy just gushes out! “Oh my, what an incredible honor Cousin!” ..this Lind is blushing beyond all her previous versions. Imladris is just speechless between the obvious Invitation, and a calm, sipping General. Keiichi of way expected note. “Uh... Hero's Ball?”

 

Frigurina clearly explains with great pride. “A gathering of the True Hero's in Heaven's judged eyes. Only once per Age, at best once a millennium, if at that, that Heaven calls forth, for an unparalleled celebration. And only when enough Chosen Heroes are discovered, to merit such a celebration, that only Heaven can shower forth. The standards alone to merit Invitations by, are nothing less than epic shattering events, world and moreso shaping that stuns Heaven silent. The ones Chosen, are truly unique of a regard no other can match. The Eddas make such little ilk of tales like so, so easily, and even far less so for a formal Ball.

 

There is just such honor, in just breathing this.”

 

Skuld is a bit lost looking, as Urd really teardrops out. “I... I've... I've only heard bare legends of the last celebration that was ever held.” ...this as Belldandy remarks with Celestine hopping over. “Celestine only mentioned it once, during my Mentorship, and I admit my own imagination is woefully lacking to what was described.”

 

Celestine indeed speaks at this point, which freaks out Tamiya and Otaki of most note. “Yes. My one and only last experience with such a Ball, was beyond extraordinary. It's only such a fitting celebration, that can compare to the ones, Heaven judges to have served in measure, to the true herald to the rest of existence. In one form or measure of another. I shame myself for not putting such events, in retrospect to my own mental collusion. The one I lain crime of.”

 

Imladris by this point... “Butbutbutbutbutbutbutbutbutbutbutbut....” ...which Takano gulps out. “I... ah... know I'll sound dorky for this, but why tha heck should it sound so much more than any other usual wingding?”

 

Imladris recovers quickly to that with... “YEAH!?!? -gack... coughx3- Ah... why....?”

 

Frigurina serenes out to an expected silence. “Because only when Almighty Dear judges enough true Hero's of an Age, have merited the standard, of having saved all a Chosen Hero knows, to a measure beyond their ever expected means, does a Ball even become considered. I'll save description, in favor of why you are one of the Chosen, dear Nephew.”

 

“Not the Invasion again!?” ...this Frig POUNCES (by finger,) upon Imladris with. “You tell me the last person to have conducted, saving Intracel and Nidhog, all in the same day, with their very given life! Tell me, and you can be free not to go.”

 

Imladris was quite silent.

 

Hirund smirks. “Worry not pup, for you are not the only Hero to be selected for this celebration. A handful only, at best to be sure, but you are not alone here. The Hero's are chosen by Heaven's specific timeframe of choice in the end, and this is truly not done so lightly, or so I was told by Almighty Himself.”

 

Celestine adds in. “You would be criminal to desist attendance, young Lord Knight. The spectacle is so fathomless in design, as are the rewards of merely participating, that you'd never forget, for all you could try to do so afterwards. The same for all who invited to attend, which is usually anyone wished for, for of the Heroes chosen.”

 

Urd smirks. “I know 'one' soul he's asking to go. Wish we could be the same.” This Lind blushes readily at, as Imladris blinks. “Pardon?”

 

Belldandy remarks. “I know I could not attend, as I would have to leave Keiichi's side.” Skuld and Urd adding. “We're with her.”

 

“Not if unless he invites you each.” Frig adds of 'her' part. Imladris however quips out. “This sounds complex. Utterly.”

 

“And awesome. Maybe too awesome.” Urd replies. Peorth however remarks. “Keiichi could attend if he underwent a few light enhancements, like le Maître Chevalier has begotten. His famille heureuse included.” ..this Keiichi flings his hands out. “Ahhh! I think I'd prefer myself intact for now guys.” ...this a few sighs of relief of family note nearby.

 

“Us too, to ask?” Satoko remarks, this Peorth nods. “You'd not be the same on your return to this Terra.”

 

“Wes gettit, kinda scary ta think of.”

 

Chihiro however mocks back to Tamiya. “You could use 'some' enhancements, you know.” ...this the big guy actually waves off. “Na danks.”

 

Imladris needlessly... “It'd involve a lot of third-dimensional translation nanite needles, to say the least.”

 

“Ahhh! We're REALLY good then!” Otaki readily adds. Satoko clutching her Otaki all the while.

 

Hirund however brings it back on topic. “I'd explain more, but words cannot do, what sights can. And the celebration is only a proper Heavenly cycle away, as I speak.”

 

Imladris quickly stabs a chord into all that, hand slapping on table included! “Wait blasted one! What of my Commandment to protect Lord Keiichi from Voluspa!? Of all such said concern! I cannot leave for 'any' celebration under such a dire circumstance! The Invasion is nothing compared to 'that'!”

 

Hirund expected that, very much all along at that. “There is no indication from either side of the World Tree, of activity of immediate note, of Voluspa's intentions. And trust of on high alone of an eye for such, as I speak this. Plus you are thinking in only three dimensional temporal-spatial terms.” ...this Frig chides as well. “We are 'readily' sure that if she was so audacious to attempt anything, your return would be quite immediate. This I am assured my Husband would be capable of enacting.”

 

Imladris hangs his mouth open with a 'but', as Belldandy holds Keiichi's hand. “My Keiichi is in no danger. Please rest assured of this.” ...this Keiichi echoes in effective tune. “Yeah. Plus it's been awhile since you've been back to Heaven. Probably people up there you can meet up with again.”

 

Imladris just blurts out immediately to 'that'! “Eihwa and the Eddas for one?! Or... uh... seven?! Are you crazy!?!?”

 

Lind just 'comforts' with a slap to Imlade's sore (ouch) left shoulder. “Do not forget me, to combat them with.” ..more than a few others giggling, with memories upon their minds. Hirund however adds in. “Oh, there's more than just them a coming.”

 

“Pardon deux fois plus?” Imlade puts, to a slight blink from Peorth. Hirund smirks. “It tis a chance to come, presuming you are taking your Confessed unto, with you....”

 

Imladris blinks at this, then looks over and sighs over to Lind. “If indeed I shalt, I 'know' I am.” ...whom gives such a caring grin in return. This Hirund then continues... “And for such, her chance to be trained as General. Formally prior to the Ball in fact.” ...this Lind really looks, as Hirund adds... “As such, your training must be accorded through the Training Judicator, for the regimen to proceed.”

 

Lind just drew such a face, right there and then. “Oh, tis will be such a splendor.”

 

“By what light?” Imlade blinked over, one 'really' pensive facade looking away generally. He then hears more than a few giggles about the table, all of goddess note. (Lind didn't appreciate, as much as Imlade is confused by it.) “Not what be of loop, I am not of?”

 

“Oh, you will find out quite readily.” Frig remarks to a further giggle. Lind just slunks her head down more, which makes the knight groan for his part in back and forth looking. Imladris then sighs out. “And 'when' am of we two, are supposed to depart for this affair?”

 

Hirund suddenly clacks her tea cup down. “Now, my pup.”

 

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

 

A well and properly healed knight, still in mundane garb, just moans as they all stand in the outside, moonlit night. “Should not this be a calm, collected night, instead?”

 

“A servant of Heaven is not given such, 'this' eve.” Hirund thumps a hand off Imlade's plain left shoulder, as Lind took up his right side. The rest of the lot watch as Belldandy imparts. “I am more than sure, your time will be such a grand adventure. Please enjoy yourself for such, for the rest of us.”

 

Imladris however kept balking. “But this is silly! There's too many that are also of merit in my stead! You all here in my eye are as much heroes, as I supposedly ever am!”

 

Takano just snips back, with her arms stiffly crossed. “Geeze dude. Can't ya just take praise calmly?” Imlade quipping back dryly. “It's too weird for me, okay?” Lind 'and' Hirund rolls their eyes, and just wrest both an arm each of their Valkyrie Knight. “Oh do desist from moans pup.” ... “Aye, and reflect your cloth better.” ...as both prod his hidden bracelets, to flare his armored garb in full! Not that it helps the bloke's mindset.

 

Keiichi takes his turn with... “But then you can tell us some fun stories, when you get back. Just have fun at this Ball for us all.”

 

Imladris looks at the resident Lord (in his eyes,) and flickers off an idea off the literal top of his noggin! A struck finger added! “If that be so, then YOU my dear Lord, will have a Ball as well!”

 

Keiichi blinks as Belldandy gushes out! “A Ball for my dear Keiichi?!!”

 

The goddess gravy train takes off from that, Urd taking point. “Actually, that's a great idea!” ..Peorth next.. “We've never renommé Keiichi, like he deserves!” Keiichi gulping. “But I...” ...Frig to Takano. “Your son is just as famous, and we can have it right here!” Keiichi going into stun mode as Takano cups her cheek. “A Ball is always a grrls dream.” ...though Chihiro quips. “Well not always.” ...though Megumi adds in.. “Aw come on, it would sound fun, if it's gold dude's suggestion!”

 

Keiichi and Keima trade a look, the latter not helping the former any, Keiba and Sentaro just plain out of the loop, (Tamiya and Otaki really out of it,) as Satoko beams. “Can it be formal? I always wanted a formal dance.” ..this Otaki then jumps in blindly! “Hey yeah! I'd love to show my sweetie a good time like that!” (So much for out of it.)

 

Chihiro just cups her own chin in reservation. “Oh man.” ...as Tamiya trades well and good lost looks all around. Mara just jitters. “If it's going to be a goddess thing though, I...” ...whit Urd plops right in on her shoulder. “Aw come now Mara. We'll keep it a simple affair.” ...this Mara YELPS at! “But nothing you goddesses do is ever simple!”

 

Lind then suggests. “They can make use of the Temple, during our absence.” ...this Keiichi blinks. “Just how long are you going to be long and away again?” ...though this Frig zips over and bumps K1, quite deliberately over into a light catch by Belldandy. “Do oh never mind that, young lord. I will handle that matter of affairs.”

 

Imladris hearing, just blinks. “Does that mean you wish to remain here as well?” ...this Frig waves a flitting hand. “Oh never mind a worry of that.” ...Imladris blinking of that iota. He then adds while the replete ladies all about, are a high chatter of this new development... “Then you will not worry if Lady Sigrun is brought along as well.”

 

Sigrun, mainly having been passive during all this, blurs out. “Me?!! In Heaven?!” Frigurina trades looks between Master and Apprentice, Keiichi and Belldandy the most looking at this development. The High Goddess just sighs. “I suppose it is fair and fitting, by chance come. I will allow it.”

 

Sigrun then comes up to Imladris. “But Master, I...”

 

“You have a right to experience by. 'And' to ask your questions at last. A goddess I said, you are.”

 

Sigrun just sighs and nods, Frig keeping her judgment withheld, trusting Imladris's instincts. The Lord Knight then looks at his Valkyrie. “And I will be appeased by your presence, by my side, throughout all of this.”

 

“Needless to say. Moreso after we arrive.”

 

“By what measure?”

 

Lind just grunts. “Be patient and find out.”

 

Imladris finds no resolution forthcoming, to the amusement of the same High Goddess. Hirund, keeps her smile level throughout, and then informs. “And so, to allow one Ball to commence, we must depart for our own.” ...this Imladris turns reserved again, unintendedly echoing Lind's facade. Belldandy then bows. “Please ensure Cousin fully enjoys all that he has earned, from Heaven and us alike.”

 

Hirund smiles, and then flicks out a cellphone of all things, into her right hand. Imladris sees this... “Where the blazes did you...?”

 

Hirund... “A new iota Heaven decided to investigate upon. What with all these Planar transverses, as of late.” ...and hits a pre-encoded number. “Ah... Yes. You can open the Gate now, my good wee Lady.”

 

The lot of chatting, come to a swift halt, as Gate activates her local nexus, as gate's portal mandala forms, with Hirund accosting a knightly arm. “Okay good pup.” ...this Imladris BALKS at! “Wait! I forgot that paperwork I was going to do for Keima's glasswork orders! I still have a combat session with Scetu planned!”

 

Lind just huffs the other arm. “Sheesh.”

 

...and as ala dragged away into enlightening echoes... “...I still have work to do tomorrow!!”

 

Chihiro for one just mocks. “Sheesh, some peace and quite for once there.” ...Keiba.. “Heh... yeah. Maybe.”

 

Megumi just shakes her head at where Keiba was smacked down. Belldandy sees Sigrun then hop over, and then look at Belldandy warily.

 

“Please. Keep and open mind, my cherished Sister.”

 

A slight smirk returned, and then no longer there, as Gate closes. Upon doing so, a slight vacuum in their souls combined, occurs, one none of them expected. Even Frig is a twinge surprised by this. This of course is then stomped all over and past, as Skuld then starry eyed squeals over at Sentaro! “You're going to take me to this Ball right!?”

 

Sentaro just snickers. “Uh... y.. yeah.. of course I will.”

 

Skuld's happy-beet squeal is snickered upon by Peorth and Urd, who Skuld is quickly defended, as Frig then floats over. “Laugh ye will, with your own loves waiting?”

 

Urd and Peorth then eye each other dryly, of not each other though, before looking at two plain struck lovers. Urd leading in kind. “If we must.” ... “Je suppose.”

 

Talos leaps upon. “We need formal wear.” ..Troubadour adding... “Come with me, fellow sir!” ...this they both suddenly scuttle off! Megumi blinks and guesses out... “All the stores are closed at this hour!”

 

“Only on this side of the globe, milady!” Troubadour announces! He just semi-drags Talos with him, until they both reach past the temple gate! Keiichi just looks over at Belldandy, before they all hear a weird, Goofy-like yelp of a fall! Urd just moans out... “That dope forgot to fly again.” ...this Peorth amends. “Nay, forgot about Talos's thick-lourd head.”

 

Belldandy giggles as much as most, as appropriate partners accost their beloveds for this suddenly, grandiose affair. She then hears from Keiichi. “Ah, do I deserve something like this?”

 

“Absolutely dear.” Belldandy smiles such a smile, one that makes Keiichi's heart, remember that nagging thought that has been creeping more and more into his soul, as of late. He blurts out on this, despite himself. “I.. I guess you'd like to come with me... ah... then?”

 

That glommed arm of enrapture was all the yes that was needed. Frig then floats over and smirks. “I guess I have my work cut out for me, if I'm to match this invitation.” ..whit Keiichi expectedly blushes badly at. She then calls out. “Let us convene on the full of this moon, at night tomorrow, good folks all gentile. Let us celebrate Keiichi, and all the bonds for whit he is catalyst.”

 

“Here here.” Keima pumps a light fist unto, to Keiichi's annoyed blush.

 

Whit it all for the following day, by mortal note, was of unique preparations.

 

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

 

-Of a heavenly version however.-

 

And despite the enforced manner prior, the arrival here, is very much serene. The Gate junction location departed unto, brings the three celestials, much more than one usually notes anymore, to a gilded precipice, of a sight that takes wonder of breath away. “Holy light.”

 

Lind and Hirund just stand now, each awash in the pure sunlit morning day of Heaven's majesty, as they all glow as much as they gaze, a joy to return in sight of Heaven in magnificent splendor. Imladris readily lets his feelings go, as they stand and just watch, Lind a bit as much as her love, of note, as both take in the myriad that is their... “Home.”

 

Hirund blinks a touch, as Imladris looks over the pearly architecture, the gold and gilded emboss, ringing and swooning in majesty, amongst the heavenly grasses, hills, and meshed trees, of Yggdrasil, in perfect symbiosis with it's core heavenscape. The sapphire waters that pool, where not falling to majestic drops, where rainbows dominate among cascade, and angelbirds flutter, as much as the gentle winds do, amongst the puffy, gleaming clouds. But it twas not Imladris's voice, that echoed this, as the Master notes over to a captivated Apprentice. He nods indeed. “Aye. Home.”

 

Lind comes up to Imladris's free right side again. Sigrun knowing the place of Imladris's preferred arm, as she in turn imparts. “This you both prefer?”

 

Sigrun does not answer, for now. Imladris however is more readily so. “After my time on my old birth world, I admit, this feels more, than World Plane Earth is now.” ...as he peers into the perfect, sapphire sky. “Any Sin of a Wish, is worth to gaze upon this.”

 

He however feels his cape yanked over. “Am I of that Sin too?”

 

“Perish me, Heavens no!”

 

Lind smiles and pecks his nose, as Hirund then walks up. Aside Sigrun. “Nevertheless, welcome 'home', my godson.”

 

Imladris contorts a light look, but then nods easily. “Aye.”

 

He then however endures of sudden note, as Hirund then offers. “Come Lady Sigrun, a short tour, and mending of new status for Intracel.” ...Sigrun in turn. “Oh sure. Uh... sure.”

 

Imladris then hears from Lind. “And I suppose I must attend to an initial uptasking of my current duty log, before proceeding further.” Which suddenly leaves Imladris... “Wait one! I would be left here bereft!?”

 

And such he is at 'that'! “Why you blangsnarffledoogal fragginmuffin nitnitnit!!! What is my chore then!!!”

 

A pair of light giggles makes the knight look behind his auspice, to a most unwanted sight. One with a pair of Medical Section goddesses he 'direly' knows. “Seren. Njal. Oh bother.”

 

Both: “You said it.”

 

Imladris had a loverly vision of ten thousand wee little needles, dancing around his head. About ten seconds after this, in fact.

 

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

 

Keiichi was freaked out. Dearly. Almost as soon as everyone agreed (mostly,) to their respective dates, for the earthly Ball, adorned of his name, very much despite himself, they all either just left, or just went right to bed! Keiichi noted this as he looked both directions of the residence hallway. “Guys. It's only 9:30!!!”

 

“Shut it!” ...a lot of goddess voices just quipped, one not included, instead peeking her head out from Keiichi's room. “Is there something wrong dear?”

 

“Oh... ah... I just think it's weird to be going to be so early. I mean what with things are anymore.”

 

Belldandy smiles as Kei rubs his head, too nervously, before cocking her sweetness best, said grin making Keiichi's heart, floor out somewhere. “But everyone is eager for tomorrow to come. There is much to prepare. Don't you agree?”

 

Keiichi lost his train of thought, with that same smile, which Belldandy simply takes his hand. “Come to bed dear.”

 

on mere apparent echo of that, after a door is slid shut, Skuld's over protective sense, gets the better of her, emerging even despite half sleepwalking in a said sleepy condition! “ZzzzzZZZ -snork!!* I swore by goddess I heard that... dwuaaaaa... -SNORE-” ...as she wobbly stumbles from her room, caught in time by a serene, sudden in appearance motherly goddess, and gently prodded back to her 'Labs'. “Back to the dream scape of Sentaro with you. Come now.”

 

Keiichi was finding, sleeping in the same room with Belldandy, a whole lot better than just pecking a picture of her, before going to sleep each night. The pecks were always returned in this instance.

 

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

 

Lind had to smile a bit. “The Valkyrie Training Grounds.”

 

A myriad series of various conical, domed, and blocky-alternating slanted structures of pearlalescent white and heavenly gold, shadowed only where needed by gentle blue hues, were filled with the sight of the endless training that countless Valkyries of the Various Wing Classifications, all conducted to better themselves by. The manicured, if well beaten down, if somehow still crisp as green combat fields, saw more than their fair share of Commanders and Instructors of the Gold and Silver Wings, teaching White and Blue Wings, their paces. Lind even took a calm sight of one Silver Wing, tarring a White Wing into her place, before a slew of equal numbers.

 

It made her... “Homesick?”

 

Lind stiffened a tic, as she angled her head, just as much, to her right rear. “Of a fleeting fashion.”

 

Two First Class Commanders that knew each other 'very' well, just locked eyes as Lind turned in half measure, to a full gaze. Lind then quipped. “I hear you finally were released from Administrator duties.”

 

“Oh thank Almighty for that!” ...whit Lind blinked, as Phosus just slumped her shoulders, a lot more than she intended. Phosus realizes she'd been duped into that, and both soon bereft a healthy laugh from mutual note. A good hug after tells enough as well.

 

“So..” ...red flame haired Commander remarks. “...our mutual bloke of charge invited you. Quite an honor.”

 

Lind smiles. Readily. “Whom else would he take?”

 

Phosus just leans in kooky wise. “Oh? I know of one Admin that wouldn't mind.” ...this Lind gasps out more than she wanted too. “Yet I 'would.”

 

Lind moans a bit, realizing to Phosus's impart. “So the bloke really loosened you up down there. Used to be, I couldn't get you to crack a breath, even during my ancient dressing downs. What a switch.” Lind just smirks back in kind. “I assure you, all such I have made him pay for, most replete.”

 

“Oh I know.” ...the equal Commander winks.

 

“Lind!”

 

The two were half surprised, when Demesus approaches, but not alone. Phosus moans. “Blimey, I told her not to tell them!”

 

Lind smirks a new measure, as Thrud, and Tsuyana both approach, Demesus leading the short way, a myriad further of new joshing and hugs given. From afar, more than a few various Valkyries and Wing trainees all look at the sight of 'such' a creme of the Valkyrie crop. Many Gold Wings no less, as Tsuyana prods. “I see our knightly bloke has loosened ye.”

 

Phosus just snaps comically. “I already joshed her about that! Try another tact!”

 

“Chill Commander.” Thrud quips, semi-Cali girl like, too much for Lind's taste. Tsuyana of far more 'elegant' note, imparts. “Hero's Ball. I cannot tell you how JEALOUS I am of you goddess! It's been said no Ball can ever be the same as the last, and no one even remembers where in Heaven, the last Ball was ever held! Oh joy of such a mystery, and 'you'... OHHH!!!”

 

Lind moans. “Composure goddess.”

 

“Try that on thy tongue, come Ball's Eve.” ...this Lind gulps a tick, Phosus nowhere near kidding with that one.

 

A bit more of light banter, before a good clap of hands, makes them all look. Demesus of note. “Ah! General Rend!”

 

Said raven haired General just smiles her light method, as the gathered Commanders all stiffen readily. It's exacerbated when she the General shouts in her best Command Voice! “I do not hear the grunts of TRAINING about these Fields!!!”

 

A few thousand immediate near and silent Valkyries, all of a sudden VERILY snap too, at all literal once! (Such was their interrupted enrapture!) Thrud and Tsuyana each whistle impressed, as Rend walks up in a measured manner, to the only one she sees, of her eye. “One of ye here, has an appointment. Or are we Three mistaken in our own recommendation to Master Thor?”

 

Lind sweats a respectful tic, as Rend stops and levels 'such' a confident eye upon. (So piercing at that. Such grace. Such terror of command.)

 

“Not of my ear. Of my mind I still...”

 

Lind sees the General tilt her head. “Oh? Has our ancient pup's misgivings filtered into ye, during your duties as well?”

 

“Enough of experience.”

 

Phosus just trades an amazed eye with Demesus, as Rend nods. “Wise. But if we trust in you, trust in us.”

 

Lind sighs, still ever uncertain of this immense honor. She however finishes. “Then I must see to the Training Judicator, as General Hirund informed.”

 

Lind ignored the gasps from her fellow kin, and sees Rend cock an expecting eye. Lind bows and nods to her (at the moment,) equal numbers and heads of for the Central Zone of the Training Fields. As Lind is seen vanishing to her next fate, Phosus 'has' to ask. “What made you decide to choose her to... be a General?”

 

Rend just kept her eye clearly on Lind, even after the others lost track. “I understand. It is an awesome responsibility. It would seem, just an excuse to meld her fate, with my godson's own. But we do not need to do that. They already have their fates tied. We however recognize Lind's service and experience. The unique nature we as Generals, always measured and seeked. This beyond more than just mere duty can accomplish, through you each here, as Commanders of the Gold Wings. Lind has the quality we seek, that we had, when we were chosen as Generals, of 'such' an ancient time long past.

 

Lind only needs a certain knowledge, to match her specific nature. And we already chose the final teacher in that regard.”

 

Thrud gasps... “You mean to say...”

 

“He'll be willing to crush his beloved properly, of the proper lessons. This once we command him of it. Plus, he'll want to do it, in only a way he'd know best to teach Lind of. And Lind would expect a harsh lesson from him, no less. Even if she could never prepare for it.

 

For that is how we Generals always were tested, from the inception of the Order, and of the Section.”

 

Demesus gulps out. “Terrifying.”

 

Rend just quips. “Oh do worry not. It takes a stiffer spirit than you four are expected to ever measure out normally.”

 

The General just enjoyed the glares she begot for that one.

 

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

 

Imlade just moaned out, aching of 'such' note. Seren and Njal both wave from behind him, as he exited the Medical chamber he knew 'so' well. “Bye dear Lord Knight!”

 

Imlade just moaned-huffed an annoyed fluster behind him, as he headed for more of that heavenly sunlight.

 

“I really need to treat them sometime to equal reward.” ...the bloke just kept moaning of dead cow note. At least the needle holes all healing up fast. (As was Njal's hearing this time, the new angel-earmuffs doing a far better job, than the last batch she wore.) Imladris however smirked to himself. “At least they stopped short of all those weird little medical tape 'X's', for 'each' of my danged stab points this time!!”

 

His 'introspection', halts as he heard a couple of giggles, and he looked up and saw some more Medical clad goddess figures, that reflexively made him recover his composure. He weathered past the few gazes of the most brave that looked, Imlade noting more than one at the extreme corners of his eyes, a good number more said Section goddesses, hiding to steal glances where they dare. Many behind medical contraptions of incredulously imaginative types, other simply behind pulled feather curtains and whatnot.

 

“I think it was calmer back home.” Imlade whispered to himself. As he finally peered past a rounding bend, heading indeed outside, he never sees one specific goddess, that watches with an entirely different composure. Her replete medical garb flows about her, as she then turns, her deep blue mane sweeping around her as well, to enter her Oversight Office of the Medical Section. A pair of goddess secretaries look up.

 

“Please log my calls for the next coming while.”

 

“Yes Milady.” ...both gentile goddesses nod. Their very respected boss then departs to trail the same said knight, as one whispers to the other. “What do you think he'll do when he finds out?” ..a pink hair quips to a glowing peach-green hair.

 

“Faint, if the Archives are accurate of our Hero.”

 

“A cycle's credits to the Goddess Mall for the winner?”

 

“Oh aye.”

 

Both goddesses giggle to a never expected meeting to come.

 

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

 

Lind sighs, standing before the Door, of the Head of the Training Judicator Chair, of the Lower Council. Such was gleaming off gently with the interior light, amended from light passing by from leaves from the open air nearby, as was standard of most hallways in Heaven. Lind sighs again at the light of such, off the placard that was placed upon this stoic door of respected note, one of Heaven's training standard for the Valkyrie Order, artfully melded into the door itself.

 

An angelbird then swoops in and decides Lind's left shoulder is a perfect resting spot. Lind's hair flutters about her with the winds that unsettle within her heart, upon this unique moment.

 

Lind looks over at her temporary companion. “It's been so long.” ...the majestic little being, looking up as if an ever present friend. Lind furthers on... “I wonder. Many things of this.”

 

The bird chirps, then sees Lind stiffens, and senses the next step coming. The bird actually does not move, as Lind wipes her hand across the placard. A low hum 'ring' chimes from beyond the artful door. And as per standard Valkyrie protocol. “Valkyrie Gold Wing and Goddess First Class, Special Duties Limited Lind reporting!”

 

And all about her, echoed to her slight exasperation. “Enter Commander.”

 

The door slides apart elegantly along three triangular diagonals, though Lind's steps inside are not quite so. She sees the spartan, open air gilded office, is little changed, since the last day she ever saw him. The bird senses, and flitters off out the door, as Lind keeps spot, as the same door shuts behind her. She then takes an exacting twelve steps to the rounded head, of the gleaming crystal table, hovering above the pure white floor of pearl. Other than a couple of Axes with a lot of Standards tied to them each, to either side of the table, and the table itself, orderly cluttered with all sorts of Training updates the Judicator always kept eye on, in cutting detail, the rest all about the Commander, was bare.

 

Lind appreciated such a lack of decor, where it only lain to distract from the occasional dressing down, or training reassignment. She however did not appreciate the obsidian chair that was turned away from her, deliberately. Nor so when she stopped with a stiff clap of her boot, upon the pearl floor.

 

It was exacerbated to her annoyance with little further, as a minute passed.

 

At which exactingly one second after. “State your purpose.”

 

“By recommendation of General Hirund, is my Command under review for promotion.”

 

A bit longer silence than Lind expected.... “Indeed.”

 

The chair turns slightly. From behind it. “Commander.”

 

“Judicator.”

 

A full half turn to see an aged, yet youthful-esc god, beard and hair of white age and wisdom, of a Lower Seat in red and black garb, expounding on the Valkyrie uniform, in robust measure. “Lind.”

 

“Frode.” A rough cough from the chair.... “Apologies. Lower Council Member Frode.”

 

A returned nod. A hidden bit lip of Lind's part.

 

“Daughter.”

 

“Father.”

 

The Judicator nods. “Let us begin then.”

 

Lind knew it would go much farther than just 'that'.

 

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

 

Imladris finally saw again, the light of glorious day! “Ahh, not this I can dare not enjoy and... YEEKK!!”

 

“Surprise!!!!!”

 

Streamers and all the ill wanted like, explode before a FREAKED out Lord Knight, the same of all those cheering goddesses. He looks down some at six, balefully expected sights, at some unwanted point. (Now in fact of note.) Imladris recovers in the midst of all that goddess replete cheering about him. He groans dourly enough.

 

(x6): “We try.” ...with smiles beamed back.

 

Imlade just slumps his shoulders.

 

---

 

There was cake to rise his spirits quickly with. “Okay, I am so beaten.”

 

(x6): “Yup.”

 

A typical heavenly grassy field, a few canopy casting trees that were little more than decoration, (though a few floating ones were just as much alone,) as a good spade of goddesses from many Sections, join in the welcome the Eddas had in mind. Imladris just enjoyed the fluffy cake, better than just mere Angel flavor, as the Eddas just kept orbiting him, wherever he stepped. (Not just a fanciful notion either.) Imladris complained to this with... “But do ye have to accost moi, on every vector taken?”

 

(#4): “All the better to entrap and enjoy you with.”

 

“As is your distinct intention I suppose, all along?”

 

(#6 and 2): “All the better to celebrate you with.”

 

Imladris was just shut up by a chomp off his sapphire plate, helped by #1 at that. (Amongst a number of small details the Eddas focused unto him of. #5 liked to do just that even.) He remarks to the taste, with a chewing moth. “It still pales to Belldandy's proper, on below.”

 

Number 3... or is it 4... er... just huffs... “We tried to replicate as best we could.”

 

Imladris just sighs, and then smiles. “I know you all did. Thank you.”

 

The endearing coo he endures just creeps him out, deep inside.

 

“Enjoying are we?”

 

Imladris hears to his half shock, and turns... “Lady Frigurina?!” ...and has his plate quickly taken by number One, as he instinctively bows. Frig however waves her dismissive hand. “Oh do please not forget to enjoy, for just my proper behalf.” The mortal knight chuckles back enough to ease by, though on his quick detail inspection. “Aye... uh... are you... fifty percent?”

 

“Yup. Half of me came here, the other back asleep with the others. If you don't mind of course.”

 

Imladris just looks at the semi-slightly looking High Goddess, as he'd think of an eighteen year old. “Why thank you Nephew. My gosh.” ...this the Eddas giggle at, as his plate is returned in hand. Imladris just chuckles back of his nervous part. “I was just surprised, what with so much in seemingly mere moments of my arrival unto this Heavenly plane. Sights no less included.”

 

“Is it good then to return as instructed?”

 

Imladris just nods contently. The Eddas sigh the same, so unto more creepy of soul for the knight.

 

Frigurina just giggles. “Can I accost this fellow for ye, my attached Eddas?”

 

(All 6): “Awwww! But we wanted to compose our new battle poem for Imladris here, for everyone!”

 

The Eddas just see Imlade next HURRY his auspice, and Frigurina's away! “To and away, prevent nausea by this course, we must may!!” This to a comical BURN thought bubble from all Six mutual. (#6): “Just you wait you metal dork!!”

 

---

 

Frig just giggles, hardly winded, not as so with Imlade, gasping his ragged best. “That... twas close.”

 

The High Goddess just takes a hand upon some silvery gilded work that comprised a sorta safety rail, as they held station at a gorgeous overlook, most panoramic. The goddess just giggles out. “Oh come now. I am sure the Six have a splendid composition for you to enjoy.”

 

Imlade just blanches back, head still low. “What with... three dragons and a starship to expound upon?”

 

Frig fingers her chin cutely. “That would be a good point.”

 

Both just laugh lightly at the prospect, though Imlade knew just as much as his fathomless companion, he'd get an earful of it all, soon enough. As he recovers, he sees they have arrived at a strange sort of a way station, never the more than a few white agleam tables and seats, with some park like benches and light posts, melded with a small enclosure structure, artfully made to enhance, yet backdrop with the view this gathering place, framed. He looks behind him, and turns to see a gorgeous sight of a massive branch of Yggdrasil's trunk, misted amongst several cascading waterfalls that drop into the unknown far below, likely the seas of the lower heavenly planes. Large, pearly white, gold ringed structures of Heaven's offices are melded hermetically with the trunk, one that seems it's holding a major metropolitan city within it's caring grasp. The view is shadowed enough to let the mists give a truly ethereal feel that can't be put words unto. But sound accompanies, as the wash from afar reaches them, of a soft roar, hissing and foaming it's measure of effect. This accompanies the occasional flock of angel birds, or something larger, and just as majestic, a few avian types well and truly golden to behold, at said distances. And the rainbows are broken in places, where light melds through, a playful sight of water and light tussling for each other's best. And all of this, of such a drop, attested again of the waterfalls, that even Frigurina feels a sense of anxiety, for just the looking.

 

They both simply enjoy the view given to them, by a chance act of the silly. A sight of an early morning view that keeps them both silent, and enraptured, for as much time as is wished for.

 

Imladris softly hears eventually to this... “And if not for you, this I willingly thank you for.”

 

Frigurina looked at sidelong in turn. “You souls just want to laud me so much. Yet all I ask for, for my part, is moments like this. The rewards always seem too far in the coming, compared to what I feel I only do, because of that Wish.”

 

“You are ever determined to keep your distance, from what you have earned.”

 

“Save for one.”

 

Frig appreciated that impart of deep love. “Keep your Lind unto that close heart. Never let that go. All we can do then as the Host of Heaven, is give rewards that can only pale in comparison.”

 

Imladris looks over fully, Frig then sneaking through... “But you'll take those rewards, nevertheless.”

 

“You may all try.”

 

“You won't have that choice, come the Ball.”

 

Imlade blinks at this, as a familiar angelbird flaps over, and settles unto the bloke's head. Frig gets a good giggle from, whit Imlade then hears. “So Lind is of a meeting then.” ...this Imlade blinks. “Eh? How did you...?”

 

“Più amato Templare!” ...this the 'other' ill wanted voice that swoops in from afar! Imlade barely gets an ...“Ut oh!” ...out in time, before he's fully glommed by a glowing white in white goddess! Frig sees and lightly giggles, as Imlade feels unto his cheek. “Lady Eihwa.”

 

The Admin, 'and' her Angelic Test of Purity, both hug their best dickens away, to the anew exasperation of said mortal. Eihwa then seeps out, rather endearingly in fact... “Sei la mia adorata, il mio tesoro.” ...this Imlade gasps lightly at... “But Migoddess... I...” ...and hushes a light bit of Eihwa... “Non. Just let me, just this once.”

 

Frig just smirks a touch as Imlade just gives in, Eihwa just letting a long period of pent up feelings, flow for this one allotted moment. This eventually changes as she looks up finally. “Ah. Il Belvedere di Eternità.”

 

Imlade translates of his part. “Overlook of Eternity?” Frig nods. “A splendid spot you accosted of me unto.” ..this Imlade blurts to ill avail.. “But... but I was just...” ...this he gets two good sets of giggles at his willing expense. Eihwa just offers.. “Well the Six 'would' drive anyone to places they never would think.” ...this Eihwa moans. “Drives mi up the muro.”

 

Frigurina then chides softly. “Non non, they still have their place. Plus I am certain you both will see them at the Ball.”

 

Eihwa giggles, as her Angel rolls it's cheek upon Imlade's feathery melon, back and forth, forth and back. “That is if our Templare invites them.”

 

“Wha?” As expected from the ignorant metal dude. Frig explains simply. “As it is a Hero's event of such elite note, only the select Hero of Chosen, can invite whom he or she wants, to the Ball.”

 

“You mean I can kick everyone out!?” ...done a bit too kookily, as attested by the double goddess bonk to his melon, for it. Imlade just rubs his melon, (where Test of Purity lets him,) and quips. “But then I guess since it's a celebration of my deeds for Heaven, all of Heaven should enjoy it. By their own choice, of course.”

 

Frig blinks a bit surprised at this. “But you don't have too. You can invite as few as you want. As long as 'someone' is invited.”

 

Imlade just shakes his head... “If I heard Celestine correctly, it's a once in a celestial lifetime event. (If such even makes sense logically.) I see little reason for everyone here to not have the same memory that I do. Save for the moments I steal away with Lind, of course.”

 

Eihwa giggles amorously at this. “Come romantico.”

 

“Yes yes, romantic. Get off me already!”

 

Frig just smiles, as Imlade vainly tried to wrench Eihwa off of him, (sounding like pulling a metal door off it's hinges, it does,) as the Second High Seat Goddess considers that allowing all of Heaven's goddesses to take part, was so overreaching, that Imlade probably didn't realize what he was allowing. But the said goddess smirked and realized Imladris would want just that. Rather than asking needlessly again, she just sends the 'invitation', formally through her Network, into and through System Hub. She knew the Goddess Mall would be very busy, in a very short amount of time. (Of stampede proportions, at that.)

 

Imlade meanwhile kept hopelessly trying to get Eihwa off him, when they all hear. “So this is the sight, I was informed to expect?”

 

Frig angles her head over, as Imlade fights to see past Eihwa's replete form. “Eh? Now who what?”

 

Eihwa sees, and 'finally' leaps off, to whit unto Imlade's surprise, then sees her bow respectfully. “Ah! My apologies, Donna fine di il Arti Medico.”

 

“Medical arts?” Imlade gasps out, mainly due to needing said breath. He then looks over a well mannered looking, high standing goddess, wrapped in extravagant trappings of the Medical Section. (Essentially very fine goddess versions of the standard Doctor's attire, set for a professor of a mode, in simple white and hinted light blue at the edges. A simple, caring facade, crowned by deep blue hair, with little more than it's own length, down past her hind. A head Sigil of a form of angelic version of the medical Sigil Imladris had seen on a few medical texts Lind (also,) had read. Other than other minor goddess trappings, a simple device that adorned her neck, seemed of a decorative version of a stethoscope, if it was 'all' the said device did, for all Imladris knew.

 

And somehow with it all, a knowing smirk, Imladris was suspicious of.

 

“Please join us.” Frigurina offered, the gentile goddess walking over, in a manner adding to Imlade's senses. The goddess takes a seat at a table, Frigurina letting the others follow willingly. Frig then imparts. “Please keep civility. And as we all know, our Lord Imladris of Valkyrie Knight mode.”

 

They all giggle a bit to Imlade's blush. And then in turn... “And of the Chief Seat of the Medical Section, for the Lower Council Seat the same, Lower Seat Goddess Ishara.”

 

Imladris, seated, and thankfully so, heard this, and immediately prostrated his head! “My deepest apologies!!”

 

Eihwa just giggled, as Frig just rolled her eyes. “I said keep civility.” ...this the Lady Goddess Ishara just held up both hands. “It is quite alright. I realize your trouble to our Section, you've caused, over all these years. If anything we should thank you.”

 

Imladris blinks at this, looking up. “Aye?”

 

“Indeed. How else has our Section begotten such detail of the body of a ner.” ...thus Imlade gulps and flicks a look away generally. Eihwa then just quips over. “Can I get a copy of his bodily scans?” This Ishara half smirks over. “It'd have to be an equitable trade. Confidentiality and all that included to bypass. I mean of it alone, it's enough study for years worth, by volume alone.”

 

“Master Thor was good and ill alike for that.” Imlade dumps his head with, to the amusement of the others. Ishara then decides to add. “Between that, all the psychological screenings, and nanite framework updates, I believe I begot a well and detailed look at why my Valkyrian daughter chose, as she did of this honored... bloke... I keep hearing term of.”

 

Imladris snaps a stunned look. He has to mull the words about twice to hazard... “Did... did I hear...?”

 

Frig just nods. Imladris looks closer at the eyes of piercing steel blue, a bit bluer than the version he knows, hence his mind drops out back to earth, or such is the feel. “Oh.”

 

Eihwa just looks at Frigurina. “Tis a full day, non?” ...both smile unto.

 

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

 

Lind wanted to leave alone. Even as she so did from Lord Frode's Office, she knew he'd not remain within, for long. After they got the necessary network uplinks to allow cross acknowledgment by the Generals, (whom surprised even Frode, with how expediently they accepted the acknowledgment from the Judicator,) the discussion turned a bit more stoic, as Frode's attempts to 'catch up', ended up with a terse stand off, that only their mutual strict decorum of training and upbringing, prevented a literal shouting match. The linchpin was the same as always, though every time Lind tried to find out what that pin 'really' was all about, the conversation cut off, the same as they always did, these days.

 

Hence why it had been nearly a decade since their last contact. Lind just sighed and struggled to keep her composure. (And the health of the nearby open air pillars that made up the 'wall' to her exiting left.)

 

“I hope Mother is more amending.”

 

“Sister!!”

 

Lind gasps 'very' much despite herself, as she sees a sight she 'really' wasn't expecting. However this time the mood is given reason to lighten. Lind gives a simple, easy smile. “Jora.”

 

A Valkyrie of usual jumpsuited nominal, walks up, her short, spiky white hair, of a hint of silvery steel note, where light played across it, gave heaven's credence. The length in fact, echoed Lind's own aspects, since it was well and good for a combat Valkyrie to maintain such simplicity. Lind only noted such on the fleet of moment, before both embraced endearingly.

 

“So, the honored Confessed returns to the fold.”

 

Lind blushes decently enough. “Where'd you learn 'that' term from?”

 

Jora slit her eyes, gainfully. “Oh you know, stuck in the Seventh Host, all that XO datawork can't keep the holy grapevine from espousing your deeds from on yonder below.”

 

“In other words, Mother gaffed.”

 

“Verily.”

 

Both laughed more easily. Definitely far more than Lind's prior meeting. Jora then shoots an amazed look from her 'own' steel blue eyes. “Tis it formally true? Your promotion?!”

 

Lind nods once. “General Hirund was both direct, and expedient. As was her demonstration prior. I only need now approach to find out what my training will require.”

 

Jora flitted a blanching hand. “You can have this honor. I'd try to guess at rumor alone of what it would be like, but then I'd be reprimanded of my First Class License. Probably busted down to Silver Wings too even.” ...she then cocks a dangerous eye that Lind 'knows' far too well. “So, did ye ever learn if your Betrothed has a fellow kin?”

Lind moaned back. “Tis an only child. Enough of a handful, only one of him is anyway.”

 

Jora just giggled enough to annoy Lind with. “Handful, bodyful, I imagine quite a few other 'fulls' as well.”

 

“And I wouldn't give him up, for anything else in this 'verse. Even if goes against some of my original standing as a Valkyrie, and of our Father's misgivings.”

 

Jora just shakes her head. “Still huh? At least you grew up some, after that Eater crud. More of from reports I've read, like who in Heaven hasn't, where released from Archives. I'm no fool of what you both have gone through. Even I'd think by now, Father would give the guy alone, a break.”

 

Lind would have lamented further, if not for the door behind them suddenly snapping open to 'both' their mutual shock! And as said... “Father?!” ...storms by, the look on the semi-aged warrior trainer's facade says all Lind and Jora need to know. Jora just cries out... “Father, this isn't the way to... ergh! Why do I bother like our Mother?”

 

Lind just sighs. “We must follow.”

 

The flight to System Hub is almost a chase.

 

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

 

Sigrun wasn't sure what she should be feeling at this point. Most of such feelings however just went numb, as she allowed herself to be led about. Hirund was easily acquiesced to conduct a mostly silent tour, with a few injections along the way. The General just remarked to herself. “(She never should have been taken from us.)”

 

By the time their wandering jaunt took them near Central Hub, Sigrun just was split between wanting to head back to Earth, and never wanting to leave again. Entering a large rounded pavilion, that adjoined a long open air hallway, Hirund just imparted. “You should not feel so different from us, because of your experiences.”

 

“But I do.” ...as the Fate Norn stepped unrealizingly, into a shade, cast by some trees that flowed freely into the hallway arches.

 

Just then, off relatively behind them. “Is that...? S.. Sigrun?!” ...to both their looking surprise, Sigrun's far more than Hirund's, as a familiar Operations goddess approaches. Hirund notes. “Ah, Chrono is it?” ...this as the spirited goddess finishes approaching, but then recognizes to an immediate bow! “Oh my! My apologies General Hirund.”

 

“By all means, if this is what I believe this is.”

 

Sigrun blinks before Chrono leaps a bit too close to her! “I can't believe it! It really is you!!”

 

“Do I know you?”

 

Chrono blinks and then realizes. “Oh. I... guess you'd... um... not remember.”

 

Sigrun however to her great credit, peers into Chrono's eyes, trying very hard to remember anything past what Hild wrought. And by all miracle of truly wanting to know... “I.... I think I... I 'do' know you.”

 

Chrono just just smiles. “Even if the last time...”

 

“....kith.” Sigrun nods. Chrono just then balks. “I'm still not giving that ball back.”

 

“Say what?!”

 

Hirund snickers, as a bit of light banter lends to a sudden hug Sigrun does not expect. She then eventually remarks. “What a fortuitous meeting of long lost friends, found once more.”

 

Chrono looks up as Sigrun looks back at the General. This before another General's voice calls out. “Would someone tell that Bianco goddess to get her kiester back to work already!” ...this Hirund mocks. “A problem ol Sister of Mist?”

 

Chrono just stiffens, making Sigrun do the same on reflex, as Mist just saunters up to the Operator. “You know, I don't envy your jobs.” ...laying it thick unto her, the same of Ere and Ex in absence. Chrono just teardrops nervously, as Sigrun just jitters a bit for all the reasons described above. Mist sees Sigrun's state and flitters a hand at her. “Oh do relax, being like your Master you are here.”

 

Chrono blinks. “Master?” ...and looks at her ancient friend of kith.

 

Sigrun nods openly. “Lord Imladris is my Master.”

 

“Really!? I... ah... yeah, that sounds swell.”

 

The two Generals just eye each other, as Sigrun blurts. “My Master is more than just 'swell'. I'd not be here if it wasn't for him!”

 

“We know. We all know.” Chrono imparts, then adding uneasily. “It's just his 'cat' condition and all. Eww.” ...with a quite visible shiver, far more than was needed in fact! Mist cocks an eye over. “I thought Commander Lind reported, you had defeated that phobia.”

 

“Not even close! I... I... er... I'm still not... I mean I was, but...”

 

Hirund smirks. (Mist giggling nearby.) “Another matter to consider soon, for this one.”

 

This iota is then intruded upon, by the sudden arrival of a huffy Lower Seat God! This time Sigrun and Chrono don't mince anything, as they bow! The Generals of their part, a good, practiced bow as well, each. Frode meanwhile just huffs.. “Where about here is he?”

 

Hirund cocks an eye, as much as Mist blinks. (Sigrun and Chrono just twitch in respectful amounts of fear.) And then promptly behind. “Father!!” ...as Lind and Jora land with great expediency! (Nearly breaking the hallway surface as they both land, as they 'do'!) The said Judicator, barely turns his head, as Hirund sighs with effect. “And he would be glad to not be here indeed.”

 

The Valkyrian Sisters just cock an eye, as Frode remarks. “By what mean is that measure?”

 

Mist quickly gathers from obvious note. “They are not 'here'.”

 

Frode of course... blinks. “Pardon?”

 

Jora and Lind both just moan and hold their respective melons. “Oh dear Almighty. Father.”

 

Frode turns a dire eye at this, but Sigrun then remarks. “Master isn't here? Then....?” ...this as Jora echoes 'Master' to Lind, whom waves it off for the moment. Hirund explains from this... “We were here to collect White Wing Chrono, from her nominal duties, as it is proper and time.” ...this Chrono points at herself with Sigrun looking. Hirund adds with a wipe of her wine locks of length. “Nothing of our presence here, is of our former Squire's doing. His is of another location, of openly known and well note.”

 

Frode hears this, and actually teardrops. “Ah... um... my mistake?”

 

A good, collective moan comes from the lot, even a few facevaults, Chrono the most noted, before Jora just cracks. “Father! Dear us all in Heaven, where is your mind at?”

“Of my displeasure daughter!” ...note of effect at Jora even, as Lind snaps in kind. “Tis not a fair thing you blame him for! Even with lack of fully knowing why!”

 

Hirund then remarks to Mist. “Indeed of our coming new Sister, the answers should be exposed.” Mist then nods. “Tyr Spaceport with us all then.”

 

Councilor Frode starts to turn, but Hirund actually hazards a bit out of her chain of command with... “Together Councilor. It would be fair to us all, would it not?” Frode to 'that' effect stares glaringly, to whit Hirund shivers just enough. It's alluded to with... “Then together with all force then.”

 

Lind really detested hearing that.

 

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

 

Frig just floated as much as Ishara did, as Tyr Spaceport apparently had become a watermark destination for goddesses, this as quite a select few were about, as the occasional draconic visage pops up and around from the lower unseen 'canyon' of the formal docking port for the Illumina. Eihwa just kept all but pasted to Imlade's side, as he noted how... “Is it supposed to be this busy around here?”

 

“Tis what begot from that Commandment. Whatmore since I set my Eternal Beloved 'straight' about all of that.”

 

Eihwa and Ishara both gulp, as much as Imlade cocks a jittered look from it.

 

And then that titanic head of dragonly serene note, cascades from far beneath. The eyes center on the 'tiny' form, of the Starport's original owner. Imlade just waves gingerly. “Allo there my Lady Irtasus, I... WAGGHHH!!” -Chomp!-

 

Even Ishara is kookily shocked, at the sight of Irtasus having taken a single 'bite' down on a knightly bloke! Eihwa even looks aghast as much as comedy allows! “-muffled- Ow.”

 

And then he's spit out unceremoniously, as Irtasus just groans. “You never call. Never write. Make a dragon mistress worry, would you?”

 

Between slopping... slop off... “Twas I supposed to so do? Remind me of what message there was of THIS!!”

 

As Imlade looks for a helping arm, that Eihwa actually scoots away from, ickily so and such, Frigurina just remarks. “I had better keep such reminders for him then.” Ishara gulping. “I don't believe I have any data on dragon bites and wounds.”

 

Irtasus just huffs to her own amusement, when Yaltros pops his gargantuan head up. “Love, the kids want another story.” ...and then looks down at the soppy knight on below. The gold draconic just quips. “Dear, you said you were giving up on junk food.”

 

“Tis this one, as much as, what do mortals of his world put it... like chewing gum. Not much taste after a bit of such.”

 

“Haha... what a...” Imlade trails off a 'cow' bit, with attempts to 'clean' himself off. The scene makes a few interested goddesses and affiliated spirits of many classes and age categories, come around, as Imlade then asks. “So, the kids trashed my abode of utterance?”

 

“Quite close ol young one. Taken after my beloved, they have of hearing.”

 

Yaltros just shoots his head back in annoyance, as much as the others about giggle and chuckle. “If of my hearing, then of your determination for the same cometh.”

 

No one looks safe with them both growling at each like that! Frig just sighs. “Good lady and sir, if you would unto the health of us all.”

 

And then the kids show up, Angelus of glowing note lands to a thud, Eihwa just calling out. “Buongiorno, Signora Angelo Drago.” ...this the noted unique being bows her head in turn. Imlade then remarks. “Having fun here as well milady?”

 

Angelus just huffs and shoves her body sized head at the armored bloke. “So what if I am?”

 

“Because I asked nicely this time.”

 

“Unlike before?”

 

Both of 'them' have an anime-comedic head tug of push war, the other dragonlings leaping behind their parents, to whit Frig moans a second time. “Great, we're all dead as immortals can become.”

 

“Company!!” ...a random goddess suddenly remarks, one Imlade notes of the Eagle-Eye Clan of Portfolio, to a mutual look of incoming, and swiftly landing! The gathered from the System Hub hallway, now 'all' are of sight to a rather gathered center place. One spirit nearby just remarks. “Okay, I'm about to lose track here.” ...of how many are now gathered.

 

Imladris hears to his hazard from Frigurina. “This ill becomes your status Councilor.”

 

“After so long?” ...said back in a grating tone. Lind just responds out... “Our apologies, we...” ...but is held by hand in check. “Keep calm daughter, both of ye in fact. It's been long suspected of my husband, apparently.”

 

Imlade suddenly has one of those 'good lord', wide eyed looks, as his detailed mind realized from looking at certain personages, hearing their words, of now all present together. Hirund notes of note, just quips... “Do try and approach this with a calm and... what the blazes?!” ...this as in a blinded mind fit, Imlade 'actually' lines up all all four Valkyrian beings in a weird, (if neat and color scheme coordinated: Jora, Frode, Lind, and Ishara. Left to right. It's the hair color thing really,) of... uh... row! Such an equal deft use of gravity powers, as much as it is just plain rude!

 

Jora/Lind/Ishara: “He just didn't.” ...as much as Frode blinks in disbelief! Imlade just SMACKS at his own head with yelp of! “Why was I not told of such a thing to possibly exist! I... OW!” ...silenced by a Lind-loving punch! “Where's you mind at dope!”

 

Jora/Ishara: “Thank you.”

 

x3 Generals: “Indeed.” (Mist: “Of all things, really!”)

 

Frig is actually beside herself with laughing, as no one expected such a lack of mannerism, this as Frode quips dourly. “Not one change.”

 

Eihwa kookily tries to help Imlade up. “Oh dear... WHAAGG!!” ..and gets plain kicked away by Lind for it! “Leave him be naive!” ...this Eihwa ZIPS right back up in 'face' with...! “Maleducato donna malefica!!” Jora whispers to Ishara at this... “More changes not seen.” ...but grunted away from the same. Imlade finally rises with a proper and deserved shiner to boot. “Apologies, but.... why was I not told?!”

 

“One did not ask.” Frig decides to remark, which Imlade yelps back UP! “This is something of a need to know basis, kind of a thing!!”

 

“Maybe you should have known better first then.” Frode 'remarks', as Imladris rises to his feet, remarking back... “Only to the same end here, of earlier measure instead.” ...this Frig snaps to Imladris. “Remember your manners good sir.” ..this making Lind and Eihwa stop their near tussle.

 

The comedy of the moment seems to be suddenly waning, as Imladris then bows. “I do. I fully apologize for my actions. I did not ever know to expect, nor admittedly was looking for this iota, of my love's own family. I am sodden before this failing as a fool.”

 

Ishara looks over at Hirund. “You did teach him quite well.” ...this Hirund in turn directs a moan at Mist and Rend. “Of certain things, even I am uneasy.” ...both whit make faces 'back', in kind! Frode however just huffs nonetheless. “I am not here for apologies.” ...this in turn begets a glare from Frig! “And you remember 'your' manners Councilor, as well as other aspects here.”

 

“For how much longer?! It's been an Age, in feel, if not already in actual passage of time!”

 

“What be...?” Imlade quips, but Frigurina presses further. “If I must enforce the Protection Program algorithm upon all this, then try my patience there Councilor.” ...this Jora and Ishara each blurt... “A what!?”

 

Sigrun and Chrono each watch as blankly as everyone else not of knowing, as Lind tries to prod. “Is that why even I cannot beget an answer?”

 

Frig lets out... “And you of all souls, know why from all that is passed, all that's come now and yet to pass.”

 

“That again.”

 

Looking unto Imladris's eyes, this time is very iron clad to endure. Frig tries to steer this away... “And you know enough why we are not formally informing...”

 

“Even if he acts and sounds the same as before?!”

 

Frig snaps over a second time at... “Frode! You are saying enough!”

 

“Of what, I'd like to know! If this is why I am summoned to some... some... wretched Ball because of it...”

 

Lind even shakes at the slap Imladris takes for that one, as even Frode's anger can't stand to a stiff retort a Motherly Goddess. But this time Imladris stands firm unto it, as Frigurina levels it crystal... “That is too poor a form of that Wish, you so blame yourself of. It is all so beyond that, I....”

 

“: Come. :”

 

Lady Irtasus is as shocked as she could ever be, when this terse scene is no longer within her sight! Angelus yelps as much as anyone else, goddesses and spirits included! “Where did they go!?”

 

...and said motherly dragon, looks up instinctively towards Almighty's Palace. “Where else in Heaven?”

 

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

 

A strange type of a sarcophagus opens, dark gray and technological, to an unlife stirring within, of need of this mode to allow the vessel to rest within. As much to keep up facade of the Emperor as 'needed'.

 

The hand that raises above the cold, metallic edge, is becoming more wrinkled. But the burning gray code that sears into the side once again, is as much becoming of ancient norm. Moreso, as It stirs awake. The rasping breath. The gasp of ash and hate.

 

And a mind that knows of Her Will of all historic format.

 

“The night, has come.”

 

Afar a loyal attendant, only from mind accosted from natural state, so long ago, approaches. The Emperor rises and quips 'simply'. “Gather the Nigh Faithful, in the Command Apex. Now.”

 

Left alone from there, the host shell makes a prayer stance, for only one being in Existence.

 

“My Will and Mother. Our time of Vengeance, is at hand.”

 

The eye lain across space, past a viewportal, towards a galaxy to be terrorized.

 

So it shall hath come.

 

(End Act VII-A, Vol. II)