Ah My Goddess Fan Fiction ❯ Valkyrie's Mirror ❯ Act VII B ( Chapter 11 )

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

Oh My Goddess! - Valkyrie's Mirror

Volume II

Act VII-B

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Keiichi started to wake. A comfortable stirring made by a sound he wasn't expecting. He then sees Belldandy is not near, and hears another set of sobs that reflect an answer unsaid. The mortal Japanese bloke then shuffles to locate the source, found at the familiar table of overused note. This time it's a sight that makes Kei drop right to the two mirror looking goddesses! “Belldandy! Frigurina! What's wrong! What happened?!”

Bell looks over, as tear welled as Frig in her arms is. “Oh Keiichi. I'm... -sniff- ...so sorry.”

Frig of her part remarks. “I... I never thought I'd have to do that to him. Not my Nephew.”

Keiichi gulped and... “W... what'd he do? What...”

Belldandy wipes her own well endowed tears and decides. “Maybe you should see, since I am seeing through my Mother's eyes.”

Keiichi gulps, and one Meld later, starts to see why, and what happened.

And a bit too far more than ever wanted.

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

Imladris, most the rest, Frigurina the only one not bowed to at least a knee, in this Chamber most Well and Holy.

“: Rise my family. Do please rise. :”

They all do, cloistered about the supremely gilded chamber, though Imladris for his part, dares not look. Almighty, Avatar form instead of the Effidice he saw last prior, just starts... “: I know thy words, and of you all. I will not hold ill, if you will look at me. :”

“Too much of myself instead. I wish I knew why!” ...said as he did not raise his melon. Frode, apparently the only one that seemed to know better, snaps out. “I am fully, truly and honorably apologetic for this, My Father and Lord, but... is this veil at an end?! I swear.... I hold a hatred! One of this one that is not deserved. My restraint is at an end!”

Frig however remarks again. “And again you know why, even if it tortures me as a Goddess that is as affected by lies, as you are as a God. Only of this matter, can there be reason to go against natural Code.”

“Can we hazard...” Mist starts... “...of the event Hild enforced unto Imladris?”

Almighty responds of such calm to mixed reactions around. “: Not only this, but also the Agent Voluspa sent to prevent the same. The same I allowed his Sealed code and dimensional biology, to contain both Code string, from both Sides of Yggdrasil. And as I have told of him, he is a tool to the end, he has agreed unto. :”

“I understand.” Imladris says with head still low. His head however is 'lifted' for him, from afar, as Almighty then imparts. “: Do not however take this as a blind order, from even Me. For that acceptance of the status as my Tool, in this Regard, the rewards have been all you have been willing to seek and fight for. But it has all been for a far greater purpose. And... a far greater mending of a past Trial. :”

Imladris in turn, after a glance over to where Lind stands, exclusively so in fact. “Is that why there is this Ball?”

“It is so much more than a Ball, Nephew.” ...Frigurina imparts, as if it was her holy duty. “The Ball is as already described for you. Assured you are not the only one to be celebrated. But for us, this is so much far more. Enough that it's an event goddesses and other celestials on high, are beyond enraptured like nothing you could imagine of us. But you should now well of what is important to us as goddesses, love above all else. In many forms, I am sure you are fully aware. The Ball is truly no less, but again so much more.”

Imladris adopts a parade rest pose to keep his feels into clenching hands unseen. (Though noticed nonetheless.) Frig continues on a sudden tangent... “If I had a reason to call anyone Son, more than just the Cousin you already accepted, it'd be you, for all that you are, and have done for 'us' all in return. You have gone too far past the original Wish, for us to accept you as something mere. You are what we have come to cherish, as much as I have come to cherish Keiichi, for the same I cherish our daughters. A family should do no less.

I would have you know, because of this cherishment, that the Ball is your celebration that gives us of Heaven, such hope that could not come otherwise. Please do not impart such in vain, when is truly is proper reward. I'll keep saying it over and thrice over more if I need to impress this.”

“Of this story anyway.”

Almighty amends Imladris's words... “: Each story as unique as the next. Untold in another tome, as Fictitious in one realm, as it is Real in the next. But I would agree with my Beloved, if a 'Son' should be ever named for our enjoyment. However these reasons lie in events that you are as directly related to, as you were of the Invasion you know of. You 'do' know of.... :” ...this Frigurina quickly stops. “Should we tell?” ...that simply.

“Yes. We should.”

Eyes look anew, as... “Master Thor!” ...Imladris echoes as much as Lind does. Chrono and Jora both bow on practiced instinct, as Sigrun does on reflex. Thor just waves if off for a more direct course. “Perhaps you should finally tell him, 'why' I call him my Equal. Now as much as I ever did on his final release from my Training eye.”

Frig raises a hand, but Almighty nods to her dismay. “: It is fair, since eye is not alone of only us to hear this Truth. :”

This a Motherly Goddess Love, gulps at that inference...

---

...as much as Keiichi and Belldandy do. But Frigurina does not sever the connection.

---

Almighty then decides... “: Do understand, this is a standpoint of History, rather than one concerning your reformation as my Tool against Voluspa. This despite both matters of the same Core regard. :” ...all are silent as Imladris nods. “Aye....?”

“: In a simple terminology, you of another soul verily similar, once served as another, as Thor's equal number amongst us. As such, this is amongst other unneeded reasons, why you are bequeathed your 'residence', of Heaven, by the name you know it as. :”

Imladris mulled that for a moment, and his shocked facade showed the answer. “But..... there was a God named Tyr, of my past life!?!?”

“: Whom sacrificed himself, of another Invasion, when Voluspa was not as subversive, as she was past. Back then, of no Caceroth to use as her own Tool and Champion, she attempted similar for the same aims, with only pure force as her measure, with no Catalyst to use. She was far stronger then, and was only halted by Tyr's own actions.

A God that sacrifices in such a manner, is not something Heaven can accept. Not easily, rather not at all. The Doublet Code is one measure of how far this goes, amongst other agreed treaties. :”

And for good reason why. Imladris instinctively looks around, at such dismay on the unknowing gathered of celestial reverence. Not a one, that wasn't crying their hearts open now. It really hit them deep, to hear this harsh truth, even the Valkyries in presence were not of a watered eye. And given what Imladris knew... “The same of what Celestine begot. And..... yes, I understand from all that, why to hide the truth. I do not dare judge what it took to make the decision to stand against him, at a time I would not still wish to be present for. Probably for the better in fact.”

Frig no less, was any less I tears on Almighty's shoulder, as Almighty remarked. “: We are fully, formally, hermetically a family of each other. The wavelength of life that flows through us all, on High, has the only curse, of being unable to accept a true death of one of us, of any ease. Amongst our failings I fully accept for us all, this is one even the Low of Hild, cannot accept so easily either. Demons are family of each other as well, of their own cultural value. Know then the loss of Tyr was just as hard on Hild, as it twas for us.

I had such memory, wiped as a result, when Tyr was lost. I make no mince for reasons, save to prevent a pain my family is truly not designed for. All save for a select few, under the coldest of instructions against describing further. That pain has only recently been amended, through teachings my Norn daughter of now below, has unwittingly reverberated to us on high of recent note. It has become a service, if however done despite my misgivings and attempts for My part. That pain however of mention here, is far beyond even this fresh of mention. :”

Imladris hears and guesses from whom, by measure of who apparently knows, before one of them, outright shoves in front of his very face! “Tyr was my mentor, you blasted fool!” ...this Thor snaps.. “COUNCILOR FRODE!” ...and unheeded... “How could you exist again! In the same effectual manner that I remember so readily, from hundreds of years long past! How can you be back here as if not a day has passed!!!!”

Imladris gulps, as Frode this time acts of lack of all restraint, done when it'd never happen again. (Even though he feels strangely silent in heart, of all this.) He even does not move, as Frode grasps both shoulder pauldrons and shakes him readily! “My mentor! My best of all friends! How could you die on me like that! Leave me alone with no idea how to live without you as a guide! How... how and now without know better can I accept you know!!!”

Imladris started 'hearing' as if he was this Tyr in his own in place stead. And without even realizing it... “I... am sorry for... that?”

Frode just pushes him off to a quick catch of his punching arm by Thor. Frode just yells... “That right there! It's all the blasted same!!!”

“He's right.” Frigurina suddenly quips, apparently only the elders in the chamber, able to speak at this point. Imladris looking at each voice in turn. “Even I amazed how much like him, you are now.”

Imladris however balks for his own sanity... “There is already a Tyr amongst the Planes now anyway. How...?”

“That version pup....” Thor imparts, just as impassioned... “...took a much more stoic vein than even 'this' austere family can approach.” ...this Lind 'and' her kin comically glare at the War God. Ishara just adds... “Remind ye of that, I will, after your own coming future injuries.” Thor nonetheless... “A decent god of a separate Pantheon, that 'Tyr' may be. It is not the same as the one I called all but Brother, during his stead of our grace, both of He, and for Us alike. I assure you my Pup, the name is not the same as the soul we are cherishing 'here', and 'now'.”

“It's just a name.” Frig continues. Imladris listening equally attentive. “You should know that, my Nephew.”

“Aye. I know.” Imladris nods. Enough of that example to go by, not needing said. He then asks of Almighty. “Is this a cycle then? Of what is more to come of all this? I know the stakes, and now a history to amend to it.”

Almighty seems emotionless to it all, but speaks of full awareness. “: Tyr was a proud God, that left us a legacy. One that recycled in the grand scheme of lifeforms, to you as of now. It was not the first time of Tyr either, of even 'his' predecessor, and it will not be the last. But the times in space between the unwished for event, is of a willing make. It is not preordained, as you may fear of such.

Like all things I gave credence, choice is an overlooked, yet core truth, of us all. For us all. By us all. :”

Imladris nods to the last of this. “So, I guess I have the soul of some old coot that I got all the failings of.” ...with some weird, head bobbing that just made the others light of heart and lip. And then the knight remarks. “And yet, somehow I feel a lacking in all this knowledge, of a heartful matter. Somehow in some way...” ...this a good glance to a Confessed unto warrior. Such to the arrayed amazement of them all watching... “I know 'I' have someone to live, and to fight for. This I know I am not of goddess, to say this selfishly of. My duty does not forget this either. No matter what else my state of mind and changing soul.”

Lind really fights her composure, through some readily noticeable rasps, as Jora just bounces, ten years too old of age to look sane by! “Ohhhhhh! Why tis he an only sibling!” ...this Ishara pats a daughter's shoulder. “Such a poor form of chance, or apparent.”

“Benvenuto a my Universe.” ...Eihwa sighs, Lind snapping into... “Party of one.” ...and both anime glaring to such ill health of one knight in between. “Where was that 'choice' bit again?”

It all however suddenly pales to what Imladris realizes of mind next, as he looks around, ignoring the pensive look Frode has, before finalizing a look to his original Trainers. Hirund appreciates the look for what it is, when Imladris changes topic of... “I do believe, if we are done talking about moi form of a poor self, we can conduct another ceremony instead. If I remember correctly.”

Rend and Mist blink in realization, as Hirund nods. “Why yes. I believe we can do just that.”

“: Agreed. :” ...Almighty imparts, which gasps Lind beyond her standards. Frig just flicks at the Eternal melon. “You realize she's nervous enough.”

Thor then trades a look with his Generals, and then snaps. “Then let us begin!”

That didn't help Lind's uncommon jitters.

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

Urd just yawns as she floats to her usual spot before the TV. “Wonder what the weather will be like for Keiichi's Ball tonight... I... eh?

Ohhh?”

“It's too early Urd.” Skuld moans out, just as bleary eyed. She saunters in, as she rounds the paper slide door. “Can't you wait till at least.... eh? ACK!!!”

Peorth then shoots in and... “Que!? What happened! I.... Woooooooo.”

One nice cuddly scene, due to previous Meld, of a Daughter, Mother, and Mortal of canon note, cuddled in between. Rather endearing a scene, since at least Keiichi is positioned towards the proper goddess. (Which makes Frig's cuddle of Kei's back, all the more weird to look at!)

Skuld manages to last about a second, before to form... “Where does his atrocities end!!!”

“But they look so comfortable.” ...Urd quips. Skuld just starts flailing, but Peorth puts a quick halt to this, with her earthen vines, ala tight. The rose goddess quips out... “Bien, what in imagination could have caused this?” ...Urd in turn smirks back. “Does it matter? I should take a picture.”

Skuld feels this is the 'proper' time to go ballistic, and so does to the surprise of the rose captor, before this goes one step too far! “- MURGFUU!! -” ...and then suddenly glows a strong blue spell hue! Urd and Peorth only have time to gasp, before a decent watery torrent splashes everywhere from Skuld, and drenches the whole room! Bell, Kei, and Frig wake up in time as if waking up in a summer flood! Keiichi yelping as much as the rest! “Hey! What the!??”

Bell recognizes, to Frig's snap of...! “Skuld!”

Skuld of course panics, and so does a waterfall like burst, explode from inside the residence!

Megumi and Keiba, (on ala arm in arm,) arrive outside. “So, wonder what kind of Ball my ditzy big bro will be thrown tonight. I...”

And they see... Meg/Keib: “Eh? .... BLARG!!!”

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

- Einherjar Fields -

Almighty was a tic surprised to suddenly see... “: Why are ye all wet, my dear Love? :”

And in 'very' hazarded turn... “You and your 'cherished' daughter.”

“: But did ye not wish for, of loins for... :” ...and 'no' one else in Existence could give that kind of glare, that actually quieted the Ultimate Bloke up with! (Yipe!!!)

This of fortunate note, is lost on most else. (Save for Eihwa, whom dove for dear life away, and behind Imlade's form.) This as the lot stand upon these halloed, and pain inducing fields, of timeless note. Lind at center point note, stands of perfect note, as they all arrived via an Eminence's teleportation ability, to another very unique moment of come to pass.

Imladris eyes Eihwa stiffly enough to get her to stand to attention enough too, as Thor barks over... “Lord Frode. Does acknowledgment of the recommendation of my Generals, meet a seconded approval, most vocal?”

Whatever objections Frode could have had, were well trounced under, by another loving 'gaze', of steel pointed note. And such prodded forth... “A... aye. The Office of the Training Judicator has no objections. (Professionally anyway.)”

Ishara adds in for effect, for no other than a mother's confidence. “The Office of the Medical Section amends with no disapproval, as well.”

It only made Lind blush uncomfortably, as Thor sees nods from the Generals. “The Generals of the War Section accept this.”

“Is there then any further recommendation or objection to be noted?”

Lind to her super bad blush in coming, then hears. “The Title of Valkyrie Knight, Templar-Holia and Hero unto Intracel, amends with a grand level of confidence in this choice for the Seat of General. The duty log alone speaks more and better than I ever could, as all such stands.”

Mist smirks. “Oh, we could give a day of cycle, alone for 'that' much.”

Just ignore the knightly bloke, and we move on as Thor then imparts, looking to the Final authority, just to ensure by proper decorum. “Does the First Seat above us all, confirm these recommendations, for this powerful seat offered?”

“: I trust the judgment, of those closest to the First-Class of high mention. :” ...a 'seconded' nod from Frigurina just asserts Thor to the next... “And so, I authorize to the Offices of General to the War Section, to begin their function here.”

Hirund then barks. “Commander Lind, Gold Wings of the Valkyrie Order, and First Class to the System, step forward!”

So done 'very' crisply.

“Commander Lind, we are now formally authorized to conduct all auspice, to the training of your Standard, to what is needed for the Platinum Wings of Command. This however can only progress, from an expressed, and in no way mistaken response, by your Office of current. And be assured, the decision you make, is no less than it was, when this Office was first offered on Below.”

Lind gulps enough, and trades a look with Imladris, as Hirund then stresses. “And so, do know that if you wish to refrain from this offer, it will be accepted without reservation, or of loss of honor. But the charge of the Office will require much more than you expect of yourself. A fearful task it is, of it's responsibility. Rewards and consequences each and alike.

Now, please consider for a moment, and answer as only befits you.”

Lind already had been mulling this, long before this moment, before even since she heard Imladris call out the fact for this ceremony. She couldn't help that the offer was a dearly wanted answer, to how she'd keep 'pace' with Imladris's own ascension. But she was completely understood to know that this desire alone, was 'impossible' to accept this responsibility by. Even if Love had helped get her to this point, never having asked for such, the same as everything else she ever earned, the responsibility now offered was too powerful for just Love to act as a catalyst, and hardly a restraint either.

And yet, as much as the power made Lind quite afraid, (as demonstrated back at the Temple, all of a short enough time ago now,) there was knowledge there that fascinated her. Abilities that could push Lind's desire to fulfill her duties, so much more readily, and effectively. She truly wanted to serve Heaven as much as anyone, ever since her knowing and willing first days of Training, despite initial misgivings from her own family. (Parents are still protective parents, no matter where and caring.) It was further, even a slight fancy of her heart to compete with her Confessor in that regard, as she did in all things with him. She had to admit then, that no matter what she chose of all this, it would be attached to what Imladris did of all things, as well. And yet this had the heavy tone of Heaven atop it, this she assured her self of, right there and then.

“(If I am not doing her duty to the utmost, for Heaven, and all it stands for, then what is my purpose? If I do not have that, then what good am I? And more, if I don't go with this chance, will I get the chance to do so ever again?)” It was enough the First Class Test, was as hard as it was for her. Fire wasn't her specialty as it was. Nevermind that bit about leaving comrades behind against overwhelming odds, during that holographic, if terrifying simulation. (A simulated demon invasion was always the favorite, if terrifying mode of testing for Valkyrie Commanders to be.)

So what could possibly happen here for the Generalship?

By this point, Hirund saw the glint in Lind's eyes, that she recognized in so many other Commanders, and especially her godson, whom might as well been the same cloth, if borne a Valkyrie. It was expressed as a result... “I wish to begin this Training. I 'will' become a General, for the good of Heaven. For the proper of All.”

“Never better an answer that could be given.” Hirund then gives a glance to her Sisters, before glancing back. “Be assured, you will be afraid for the asking.”

Lind had all right to gulp there.

Hirund then heard Rend suddenly speak up. “Pup! Up front!” ...this Imladris strode the few steps, to the clack of his armor plates. (This done with a bit of confusion, mixed of waiting wonder.) Rend then comes up, as Imladris stands between an incumbent General and beloved Commander. A light breeze sways amongst them all, as Rend then imparts. “You will train her pup.”

Lind blinked as much as Imlade did, of his impart... “But... honor and all aside....”

“As per standard of Proctoring First Class tests, this version requires one that knows of the one being tested best, in all of mind and heart. And in our case specialized, of training as well. After as long as you have had in our care, you know our knowledge as well as any in Heaven. Power will not be the requirement here, by teachings, where the tools already available are of open merit to use. These tools are of other merits of a General. One's even we learned some of, from you.

By this merit, we could have no better choice.”

Imladris smirks a touch, (grimacing a bit more,) as Lind appreciates the irony. Frode speaks out of turn, still uneasy of Imladris's presence. “My daughter, will be taught by 'this' mortal bloke?”

Mist in stern turn... “By him, or no other. By him, or not of her.” ...the words are understood clearly by all.

Lind for her part, nods. “I agree.” ...though a split moment later, Imladris then espouses. “As they said, to your fear, I assure you.” ..this Lind grins over... “I await that then.” ...and... “Await not here, we begin with.” ...sheesh... “So display already.” ...ugh... “Right and Aye! Master Thor!”

Frig by now is just bowed over Almighty's shoulder, giggling, (Ishara and Jora no less unto each, amongst others) as Thor towers over. “You bellowed dope?”

“What alloted am I, to use as resources here?”

Since Imladris's mind was easy to read, to the lot of em, hence more than a few reserved glances, when Thor answers.. “All that you wish. Curiosity becomes of me. We can 'make' the time included, to fit.”

Rend rolls her eyes. “He and 'they' would do this.” ...as Imladris then asks Lind. “Tell me. What is the largest contingent of troops you've led, in all your time as Commander. Beyond that as well included.”

Lind considered. “A few Wings and Platoons at most. I've witnessed a few large battles, but I.... ah.”

Hirund remarks over to ensure... “Yes. It would be a proper experience to learn from. If overwhelming to conduct.”

Imladris nods. “Since power is not a judge of use here, at present, and we 'are' on this famed field of large battles of note, the first lesson should be then, in the unaccustomed Command at and upon the largest scale of them all.”

Frode looks aghast, as... “You would not mean to...”

...and Imladris asks for just 'that'! “Summon the Host. Both sides of this Field to the maximum fill. I want them 'all' here. Now please.”

Almighty is a bit surprised to hear this even. As Hirund smiles, and 'quite' readily responds. “Indeed. Let it so be!!”

Jora already quickly bows and leaves her parents for her own Host, as Thor snaps his fingers, and the Fields begin to morph in expansion, of a 'great' measure. The Generals snap 'their' fingers, and the War Trumpets of the Host begin to sound all across Heaven's vast expanse, the loudest unto the Valkyrie Training Fields, and the Petitioner Celebration Halls. And so they soon start to come without further heed, (but a lot of questions of heart,) as Lind cocks a lean over at Imladris. “Only you could impose such a fathomless lesson.”

“Aye. And as such, you will be leading the entire Valkyrie Host, down to the lowest trainee, in this lesson. The same of nin, as I lead the whole of the Petitioner Host. The lessons are all there to be had, for merely the looking and discovering. The methods of battle effect, will be no different than when Phosus conducted her... message, unto me. Weapons and all the like.”

Eihwa then leans on in, which is kooky to see her at an exact twelve degree angle as Lind is leaning. “Siete pazzo! Do you realize all the resources that are needed, for even the Host to fully assemble? All the waiting for the proper time and all needed to begin a battle? Of unrelated functions and Sections even? Nevermind the spectacle for the rest of Heaven! Even if this is just a plain face to face affair, for the uninitiated trainees to be accosted so, and....”

“Practice and practical, ever the two be so different in form.” Lind smirks in realization. That lesson didn't take long to sink in.

The Admin then just looks between both warriors, and teardrops.

Imlade then hears to his shivered spine... “I'll be docking this unto a formal Complaint, after all said and done.” ...this the Medical Section Seat seethes coolly. And a second of other ear... “Of mine, a personal one instead.” ...of the Judicator version.

The mortal just wilts under three such 'exacting' familial gazes, such that Eihwa then slinks away. Imlade balks at this with... “Oh now you retreat from me?!”

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

-Earth, we know where.-

Skuld was weeping like she always did, under this type of punishment. Moreso this time as Frig keeps a huffing eye (here,) on the nature of the punishment. “Whaaaaaa! Make it stop mommy!!! Whaaaaa!!!”

“Continue kith.”

Keiichi and Belldandy, nice and dry and all, watch to the mutual right of the High Goddess, as Skuld's punishment of making useless contraptions, is taken to a new... er.... trauma. This as the Future goddess genius, finishes a form of a Rube Goldberg machine, that had to do one hundred separate functions, just to achieve one simple result. And for the sake of use of any animal here, she used another useless contraption that did the same function. All the better for the end result, as Skuld gulps out in anime tears. “Hic... finished.”

“Go on.”

Skuld 'very' jittery, jiggles her finger over a big red button, before a motherly growl 'helps' her push it. Keiichi watches blankly, as the machine goes through it's movements, once, loud and clunky, sparking in places badly, smoky and oily, before it finally gets to the last few functions, in all of two minutes and thirteen seconds. And when it does...

...it busts apart with ozone and smoke. And to Skuld's anew crying.

Belldandy of course finally can speak. (To an actual hazard to boot prior.) “Apologies Mother, but, was this not too harsh?”

“One will remember this, to then learn their powers of restraint, for the future then. No?”

Skuld nods meekly, while just holding some remains of a 'lot' of wasted work. But then they all of hearing in the background, some manic laughing. They all look, as Urd is losing her fight with her diaphragm. “I'm... I'm sorry... but... bwhahahahahahahaha!!!” ...with replete fist smacks to the ground, and all.

She shoulda known better... “Funny tis it?” ...as do everyone else. Bell: “Oh dear.”

---

Urd was weeping like she always did, under this type of punishment. Moreso this time as Frig keeps a huffing eye (here,) on the nature of the punishment. “Whaaaaaa! Make it stop mommy!!! Whaaaaa!!!”

“Continue naive.”

Keiichi and Belldandy, nice and dry and (uneasily) all, watch to the mutual right of the High Goddess, as Urd's punishment of dumping sake, is taken to a new... er.... trauma. This as a Past goddess of addition note, has to dump an 'entire' large bottle of Kame no O, generally a five hundred dollar, approximate a bottle of seven hundred and twenty milliliters, this version four times as large as informed. (One can guess the amount being wasted there then!)

Keiichi is even shaking. “Oh my goddess! Do you know how hard it is to make that stuff?!”

“Yes.”

Belldandy just remarks. “I wonder what it tastes like.” ..and somewhere/somehow, two simple sake drinking cups are produced. Frig quipping. “Be my guest.”

And one pair of sips later. “Oh wow! I feel spoiled here!” Kei quips. Urd moans over in as equal anime tears, as Skuld's had been. (Actually still is outside.) “Don't rub it in!”

As Belldandy mulls over the extravagant flavors, Keiichi just quips. “Gee. I'd hate to know what'd happen, if I ever made you mad.”

Frig, quite 'level'. “You and Bell-chan in separate Universes, for a week. Or month depending on my mood.”

The two just leap into each other's arms comically! Both: “We'll be good!”

At least Frig finally cracks a smirk. (Catching both cups all the while.)

Peorth chooses for her own reasons, walk on by, at that moment. “Bonjour. Je.... que?”

Frig just glances over. “I have a bottle of Imperial Majesty, with 'your' name on it. Dear.” ...and actually hefts an apparently real as gleaming life bottle of the stuff!! Approximately $215,000 a 16.9 ounce bottle. Limited to five (six now, thanks to Frig's powers,) by Clive Christian, in a Baccarat crystal bottle, with five carat diamond unto the eighteen carat gold collar. Peorth wide-eyed sees it, and quickly screams out of sight! “Je suis dÃ©solÃ©!! Je regrette que!! AHHHHH!!!!”

Keiichi is twitching now, before Frig then cutely waves over... “Come here Daughter.” ...and so unto Bell's neck, two light, dibbled drops from Frig's right pinkie finger, to each side of Bell's 'sweet spot' under each ear. Bell blinks at this and smells... “My, that's so nice. I... Keiichi? Keiichi dear?”

The said bloke wobbles kookily, and is lost in eye hearts, off to Pluto, or such a heavenly destination. Belldandy giggles unrealizingly, as Frig smirks. “That'll quiet the kith.” ..and actually hands the bottle to Belldandy. This as Urd finally comes up with an empty bottle. (One heck of an expensive lesson.) “There. -sniff-”

“Learn ye lesson?”

Urd gulps. “You're as bad... er... good... er... bad, as Hild you know.”

“Indeed. Now to prepare for tonight with ye.” ...and scoots Urd off to collect Skuld, while Frig has Bell float-spell 'carry' a heart lost K1 to his room to recover. (Took awhile there, since Bell didn't leave his side for awhile.) Frig then 'hears' to her other 'half's' amusement, that all is about ready 'on Above', before then hearing on Level, outside as two weird sounding blokes start to emerge at the Temple once more.

She jitters to a sudden premonition. “I feel an ill tiding approaching.”

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

-The Fields.

Whoa... -

Imladris... “Okay. Now I know the full Host in size.” ...this on his side of the enormous Fields. “I think.”

---

Lind.... “Wow.”

Phosus just looks agape at 'such' a display. “I never fully..... -gulp-... realized how large a Section, we all Commanded in.”

---

Almighty just sits, (enforced a tad,) in a strange, if gilded recliner, of beach front type of a mode. Frigurina (the 'enforced' sitter,) just rubs at the Creator's shoulders amorously, as Thor sits in an equal number, if less gilded and all, with a large tub of super puffy stuff, as they both witness this awesome display. Thor just huffs happily like a hyena in barely controlled heat. (Yes it looks disturbing too.) “Tis an affair I do 'like'!” -PUFFYCORNCHOMP!!-

“: Tis you would. And if I may. Of one that requires of little nourishment to sustain by. Why doth you feed as if a manic grazing cow? :”

Thor (full of mouth): “Cwass Ith likewth miyth glutonthhy!” -SUPERGOKUCHOMP!-

Frig moans and rolls her eyes, as they then look across from a good vantage point made (verily made,) of two FULL armies of the absolute, combined Host of Heaven! Even with many numerous goddesses of the Accounting, Administration, and Secretarial Sections, present, even 'they' of the best of them, lost easy count of such enormous numbers present. The imagined number was well surpassed from such a point, in favor of the gaudy of number! Such was the epic feel as Imladris intended, though...

---

“Oh dear me, I am an arse.”

“Tis what you wanted.” ...this Imladris looks back and sees his Training nannies afloat of him. This as they all keep high perspective of this affair, still forming. And despite a good fifty kilometers of all sensory directions, all around, it is a crowded affair that is not limited to the low of Field o' plain. Such is how insane this all is, before anything has fully taken place, beyond logistics. Imladris however recovers his senses, and then remarks. “Aye. Better to overwhelm the senses, and then bring it all back up after, of simpler affair. Plus.... I never fully knew how large our Host ever was. A query of trivia note, if little else, by curiosity.

Call it one, at the last, for the Archives Section.”

The Three trade off key looks of the comedic, before Mist then asks. “Where would you have us?”

Imladris blinks in shock, a double take even? “Pardon? I... I don't...”

“We are interested.” Rend quips simply, a hand across the Fields, where numbers of even Legion level formations, lose easy count. “After all, even we have been limited in the scale you are accustomed to. It's not like we usually go looking for wars. Nor of you we are assured. Experiences of this kind, come 'unto' us, and of you far more than of we. And of here, we see a culmination of all this, to teach us all by. A reminder we need to take hold, as much as Commanders will study for ages to come. For your experiences here, we are therefore, again, interested.”

Imladris at first dips his head. “Aye. Too much I guess. Of said all that. Experience gained unto me, most so done after my blank departure. A tome I could write of it all, if I can look past the pain more easily. Not of me alone, of many I speak of.”

“Experience nonetheless.” Hirund remarks. “It is there. Use it here as you wish to teach by, in our methods we expressed by. And since none will die here this day, though the same many will far more fill Medical Section for days, all the better to maximize the lesson, for even us to use further on. We too can study and learn. It is, all, in the end, why were are Made, as is the War Section.”

Imladris nods, and lets go of his self import. “I'd prefer, if you'd use that all then, for General Lind's sake. This so that she gains maximum of benefit of here. After, I have other methods, she will find appealing to her nature. But the lesson is best from those Lind will call 'Sister' most. Rather than aid me, challenge me, so I can give Lind 'my' best of this lesson. I too can learn from all this as well.”

Mist chuckles a touch. “Even if the tools are still, medieval-esc, in nature? I would have expected a few space..... ships?” ...before this iota suddenly trails off to Imladris's smirks. This as almost to that kin, a good number of large airships of the Heavenly make and mode start to appear, from the building clouds of gray. With them alone, a compass-pyramid formation of rider laden griffins of war, flow out as their own Legions of the skies. With already such a mix of methods and war machine makes, along with various infantry, calvary, winged and mystical types, for 'tools' available, this just added another layer of this unique 'battle', to consider. Hirund even was gulping for once, as Imladris just smiles. “Be thankful it's not a mere game of chess. Plus I need to defend that Standing of Sixteen time Strategics Champion of the War Section. Can't wait for Lind to beat me to it one day.”

Rend just squeals to the challenge. “Oh you are so on then pup!”

Imladris quickly sees his auspice utterly alone, and then looks at whom he arrayed against. All he knows and loves, and all their excellent abilities, at the fore of such a magnificent display. Imladris wouldn't be surprised, if the final Logistics Section numbers, would equate past a million celestial souls, per side.

“Yes. The Medical Section will be busy. All the better as they need the practice as well.” ...and turns and shoots off to his chosen 'command post', amongst a special floating platform that would make mortal Military Commanders insane with jealousy.

----

Lind's own platform was no less, exactingly so in fact. Around her, (and her Mints,) she was seeing more Valkyrie Commanders of the highest order, attend duties as best they could. She also saw, most were verily confused, overall. In all, there were Seven distinct Hosts, as the armies here were known. The Training Cadres were another good Ten Hosts worth alone. There were also all sorts of individual Commands, and Special Assets that comprised much of the usual operations Almighty sent forth as his Will. It might as well been pure perchance that Lind was the... patsy... of Hild's intentions, all that long time ago, of the Eater Incident, that sent her to Earth and unto the Norns (and Keiichi, to depending fortunes.)

In fact it could have been any Almighty chose to send, of the Wings, for his Will. But Hild knew as much as Almighty, as much as said perchance became the combined catalysts, that started Lind's rise to this point. And here, Lind watched the Special Commands, mingle amongst other similar Commanders, while, to her's and her extended Mint's own sights. (This as three sets of eyes, helped keep initial track of the Host's full Formation.)

And then to boost their numbers, in comparison to the formidable numbers of the Petitioners across from them 'all', the Seraphim were summoned as well, though they were only as rigid in formation, as were the recent trainees of the Apprentices of White Wing were. As a result, most were uncertain to say the best. This reverberated further with a bit of confusion between the Hosts. Lind already could tell, beyond Host levels of Command, the Full Host was not used to all this.

She alone, was becoming, just as nervous. Phosus, Demesus, Thrud and Tsuyana were no less, as they glanced at Lind occasionally. Lind therefore was glad that Hirund landed near first. (For some reason, she felt more kin with her, despite their similarities. Such sometimes was a clashing nature instead.)

“General Hirund.”

“General Lind.”

Lind blinks... “Pardon? Even if...?”

“If your love calls you such already. I can.”

Lind appreciates that, as she asks... “I can use such wisdom here, if just to prod myself by.”

Rend and Mist land, as Phosus of note, hears of Hirund. “Command of this scale, requires absolute confidence, even if you do not feel it readily. This for the vernier for your troops to find their own confidence by.”

Mist adds next. “Trust in your Commanders, and all the training they themselves fall back upon. Use this via the chain of command, to ensure that the lowest echelons, are as effective as you command of them.”

Rend in turn. “Understand your own force, as you understand of yourself. Understand every nuance in between, and then understand the effect and speed to enact that understanding, of all the same echelons.”

Hirund... “Make your decisions from all this, with a sense of both speed and efficacy, as a battle unfolds before you. But understand that unlike the smaller scale of affairs that we all are accustomed, the same that melds unto the larger battlefield, all still can be spread out, over a far longer term, than used to. What a battle starts out as, even by pure objective, can be changed radically, by even the mid point of the battle, and change back, or utterly shatter to another end, by the end.”

Lind is a perfect student, as her curious brow stiffens some with these words. Mist reflects then... “Battles of a war, are long term affairs, filled with all manner of iotas that will catch one off guard. And many a time, the chaos within, will not reach your ears, for some time, unless you are detailed enough to perceive this.”

Rend further with arms folded. “But do not be pinned down by such concerns, as doing so, can blind you to other travails, that may become even more critical. One must therefore, remain fluid to whatever changes become at hand. Reaction, and proactive action, have their places where needed, for not only you, but for your Commanders below your Chain.”

“And information is a two way link.” Lind adds for her own part.

Hirund nods. “And know, to be a War Commander of renown, means there is little net to save ye by, save for loyalty. Your make and mend, are your decisions that shape, both that can be hailed, and trampled unto. A victor, or a louse, you can be, by a decision, that is as much tactics, as it is fate.”

Lind smirks. “And I 'do' see Sigrun is of beloved's side.”

Hirund nods. “An Apprentice is loyal, as she will be as frightened.”

Lind nods, and then looks over, her first ever true command as a General in Training. “Commander Phosus.”

“Yes ma'am!” ...a still technically equal number, snaps to as if fully otherwise. Lind nods. “I need to start seeing our forces act like the Valkyries, that they all are. Our Seraphim as well, by no less.”

Phosus wastes no time, and the effect shows very quickly, first around the platform, and then further down, as the ranks start to stiffen up more crisply. Lind then adds to her present 'staff'. “Even if we are all together, for the first time, in this manner, it does not reflect on us to behave below our best standards. Let us all demonstrate why as a Host today.”

“Yes General!” More than a number of Valkyries respond, Demesus and Tsuyana of most note. Thrud already departs to assist Phosus in disseminating Lind's first order. Soon after this, Jora arrives with one Commander Titira, of the Seventh. “General.”

Lind nods, no family titles allowed here. Titira, after simple introduction... “Our Host is about assembled.” ...this before other Host Commanders begin to approach. Lind then looks at Hirund of focus, and imparts. “The next lesson, would be how to determine our tactics. I have to admit, we are somewhat limited in ability type, compared to our 'foe'.”

Mist then smirks. “Of as much, as he's possibly using too much ability. And maybe just as many battlegrounds, within the larger one.”

Lind looked indeed at the other end of the Fields, and quipped. “What 'is' his Host comprised of?”

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

Frig couldn't believe her eyes. Even for an Earth version, the sight looked almost too alien to stand! “You two are 'really' idiotic!!”

Talos and Troubadour. Two of a kind. The choices of bright orange and powder blue tuxedos each, respectively, just made a still drying Megumi and Keiba nearby, want to throw up! Keiba in fact. “They look like that Kooky and Kookier pair! Ugh, my stomach!”

“I need antacid.” Megumi moans as they both scuttle off to the health of more than just vision, and the nearby shrubbery, as Frig refocuses her antagonism, at 'them' this time! “Are ye both of a mind vacuumed DRY!? How can ye both be this... this.... I can't even 'say' such a word!”

Talos just quips. “It twas his idea.” ...finger unto his Spirited friend. Troubadour just blurts! “But the colors suit a Spirit of my status! Plus the green one was already taken.”

Frig glares back comically. “To be sundered, I hope.”

At such a point, Keima decides to saunter in to check up on Keiichi, when to his own sight on appearance. The two off world landers just eye the aged bloke, to whit Keima quips. “Who lost to whom of a bet?”

Frig just pounces on all of that, with a point at a suddenly manic Keima! “You should reform them of a manner befit of your sons celebration!”

“Me?! And... wait... you know my thoughts on calling Keiichi my...”

“!!NOW!!”

Boy they are so gone.

Megumi then comes up, looking better to her credit. “Eh? Was that Keima?”

“Worry them not.” Frig quips, as she cutely switches tact to, as does her spin effect... “So, do ye know your fashion to attire?”

Megumi gulps, and then wanders... “Ummm... actually, I don't really have a clue. Never did a Ball before.”

Frig sighs. “Oh ye of learning need. Very well, let us call upon our replete kin, and have a meeting, and compose.”

Keiba meanwhile gingerly looks around, as Megumi asks. “What about the guys?”

“Oh, I know someone there, that can help.”

The 'one', being more of a Synthetic 'It', in fact.

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

Skuld was readily wiping her face, after crying 'that' much. Not that Urd wasn't doing likewise, both of them in the common bathroom. Urd just moans. “Dang, it's been awhile since one of us got Mother's dander up 'that' much. This as Skuld sighs. “Okay, so I really need to control my powers better. I just thought Keiichi was...”

“He has an earned right, even is it was aimed mainly at Belldandy.” ..this Skuld huffs at, Urd cocking her head back. “Oh do grow up a little. What would you do if someone was keeping Sentaro away from you, like you've been doing all this time on Keiichi?

If you want to go 'that' far, your Sentaro is no different from Keiichi.” ...this Skuld looks down a bit into the filled sink with. She stutters... “But what Keiichi did to my Sis...”

“What you want with Sentaro. Does love transcend such foolish things, as 'race', or for us, 'dimensional' concerns? Or does it not?”

Urd got the look she wanted from Skuld. Not that Skuld was 'fully' ready to give it all up, between Keiichi and Belldandy, 'just' yet. She remarks this with... “I'm still making Keiichi earn anything from my Big Sis.”

Urd giggles. “Why not? Keeps things fun around here. Course I guess can then mess with you and Sentaro, just as much.”

Skuld huffs and smacks her left hand into the water, as she turns back fully at Urd! “Well what about you and Trou.... ba...?” ...as the sink full of still decently warm water, suddenly glows a spell induced pinkish. Urd blinks... “What the...?” ...before they both hear a familiar yelp that makes Skuld gulp. Skuld even gleeps.. “Did I just...?” ..and to Urd shock, Skuld actually looks into an apparently active portal, to whit Urd hears two high pitched screeches, before Skuld's head YANKS back out with SUCH a bad blush!

Urd quickly connects the lewd dots, as Skuld keeps her gleeping tone.. “I think I saw more of Sentaro than I wanted.”

And then to top it off, Urd then pokes her head in, (disbelief reasons soon clarified.) This to Urd double over yelped at by Sentaro, and then Ichigo's voice heard 'within' the sink, as Skuld just stands there in perpetual blushing shock. Urd not quite as quickly removes her own head, which only happens after a 'rather' terse yell from Ichigo. Urd then chuckles out... “Well well, guess you know what Sentaro-kun looks like in the bath now.”

“I didn't mean to do that.” Skuld keeps gleeping. Urd just pats the Future tyke. “Well, guess we know just how 'much' you want to be with Sentaro. Even passively it seems.”

The anew shouting match just trails off Urd's Castle.

----

This time Peorth found approach of the Second Seat easier. (The sign of light sweeping did that.) “Is it safe?”

“Enough. In a bit, we all will begin preparing.”

Peorth smirked, as Frig explains simply of Meg's departure to gather then flock from the Morisato elder's home. (Verses the Temple version.) Keiba meanwhile was sent to gather others from the previous night's festivities, so all that was needed, was arrival time in between. This left them both to leave Urd and Skuld's 'tiffs' out of immediate ear, as Belldandy soon enters said same. Peorth bows in her own cute way. “Salutations, DÃ©esse de PrÃ©sent.”

Ever a beaming smile in return, as Frig sees. One meant for more, anymore, than just for most anyone else.

Peorth asks more readily. “So how is our maÃ®tre, dÃ©esse?”

“Keiichi dear is resting.” ..though this from Belldandy seems to just make Frigurina giggle. However when this begets further than is needed, the two others just look. Belldandy leans in... “Mother?”

Frig then giggles out. “My pardons. But... oh my such a spectacle those two can cause.”

Peorth gets it a touch after Belldandy does.

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

-Three hours into the Heavenly Battle.-

Lind watched as much as the rest of her kin, at such an ebb and flow of a dance, larger than she could have ever known. “Another peer into his mind.”

The battle was already well underway before even the first full bodies of forces even made contact. Small squads of experienced Valkyrie 'hunters' having been sent out to probe and ascertain from both ground and aerial vantage points, were met quickly by Imladris already attempting to do the same. Some made their way to the airships Imladris's Petitioner Force used, and started small boarding actions that led to some airships and griffon support probing above the massive Valkyrie lines. (Only about thirty something lines deep.)

From truly above it all, the Valkyrie's kept a standard enough looking Legion sized 'block' of troops, mixing their various types of 'experience', amidst the Seraphim in their ranks. This essentially was expanded well over several thousand times, well past the tens, as their first major ranks moved forward, supported by aerial versions 'just' as large, all moved to an attack Imladris let come.

The Petitioner Force, a just as rigid a force mix of Guardinals, Warriors of the Passing, and other uncountable types of creatures and spirits, that knew both war, and loyalty to the Heavenly cause, held their stance along most of that fifty kilometer length, using the myriad of created terrain to their initial, defensive advantage.

Such was how the first masses of the two armies met, at the quarter past the second hour. The fighting was as intense, despite mere stun weaponry, as any of the training formats had ever been across the War Section Training Grounds. At the base level then, it was a matter of beating into each other senseless. Lind already saw that much, but the scale of it, was mind numbing, at the initial outset. And still, across her field of vision, there was little more than defense on Imladris's mind. The reasons was patient, as they were expecting.

Imladris at the first, let Lind become accustomed to the experience. At their mutual level, the meaning of battle translated into something alien, compared from the in close combat, they were far more used to. Not that Lind alone was being static as she watched it all. Her Commanders of friends note, and more of the various Hosts, kept clamoring for orders from time to time, as the Generals gave small insights of where the orderly vectors of battle lines, began to stretch some, in the early going.

And nor was Imladris, whom as a first major command of the battle's inception, moved two Guardinal Legions to counter a strong pincer push, along the mid left battle line. The sixteen kilometer mark was the first of several that 'formed', as Lind started testing Imladris, more and more. By now, large fights were taking place, for control of a major hill, a swooping valley-canyon with adjoining plateaus, and amongst most of the silvery-gray skies.

Petitioner led Artillery spread out in decent torrents of 'stun' fire, that forced the Valkyries to move with speed to avoid as much as possible, though the Valkyries were not so limited either. The artillery was little more than large scale tubes that had energy ejection 'bulbs' at the end of them. A bit of angelic monikering, and they looked less like lethal implements of war, and more like carnival implements. Seeing them fire in action was a quick way to shove the ideal in the lethal direction. (In a stun sort of a way.) course the fact the numbers were about the same as the old Soviet Union used towards the end of World War II, just made avoiding said fire, a huge chore on it's own.

As a result of all this combined, in the 'early' going, the casualties' started to 'pile up'. Where a Valkyrie, Seraphim or Petitioner fell, or were hurt enough by more than just 'stun' weaponry, were ported away, leaving behind a gleaming white marble 'body', in it's place. And with already how many were falling, the battlefield was adding another characteristic to the bewildered eye.

----

Thor made this first observation.... “An impressive number of casualties already.”

Frig just grimaced a bit, as Almighty kept a level as ever eye. This even as one of the Petitioner airships began to waylay to a crash landing, Valkyries, Seraphim and Petitioners all scattering from the soon harsh of impact. Frig just creeped out... “At least they're taking it easy on each other.”

Just then, of all High seat goddesses to appear. “What the blazes it all this?!?!?”

Frig/Almi/Tho: “Lady Freyana.”

“Do you all realize what kind of havoc, this is causing all over Hub's screens alone!?”

“: Yes. :” ...Almighty simply quipped, as Thor just suddenly thrust pointed at the battlefield! “OHHH!! Did you see that mass of troops, slamming into each other like that!” ...whooping it up, like it was a good football play! Freyana just goes ballistic! “Does the term irresponsibility, ever end with you!?”

“Do you want me to answer that?”

Freyana just appreciated Frigurina's dry tone. Thor of course wasn't paying heed, where seeing concentrated artillery fire was doing so much better for the same. Freyana was about to snap again, when a demonic 'poof' teleport brings an even less wanted personage unto the scene. Frig blinks, as Almighty recognized from the inevitable. “Lady Hild.”

“You fools know how to make a racket.” Hild quips, an eye on the heavy sounds of battle, reaching their ears, quite easily. Freyana just balks! “What the BLAZES are you doing here!?!?”

Hild cocks an eye, arms folded, businesslike as a CEO must profess. “Pardon? Were We not once of this level? We know the portals to reach up here, as much as you do. Course that should not be a surprise, 'young one'.”

Freyana seethes at this, as Thor then quips. “And yet, it took three celestial hours to have ye come upon this scene? Such makes you slow.”

Hild in turn seethes, as much as Frig finally has reason to giggle Thor's wit. “Good one Brother.”

Just then, they all look a bit stunned, as a large cascade of battle field cast spells, slam into another section of the Petitioner line, semi-somewhat close to them. Thor remarks. “Ah, so she is attempting the ancient flanking maneuver. And... ah...” ...seeing some quick movement along the secondary ranks of the Petitioner Force, around this area, as they move forward with their calvary leading. “...yes, a proper flank breach on call response.”

And then Frig notes with a slight clutch of Almighty's shoulders. (Enough, even broad and thick, that He winces a touch.) “What the heck it 'that'!?” ...as the sight of a towering formation of mixed troops, that rise from ground level, to a good thousand meters into the sky! The sight is quite of disbelief, as Thor then smacks his hands, seeing it's all Petitioners conducting such a brazen maneuver. “Now 'that' is my imaginative Pup for ya!”

“More than the usual from 'ye'.”

Thor now seethes at Hild, another slight giggle for Frigs impart. Freyana just shakes at such a thing, no less than what is happening across much of the Valkyrie Host Command, at that moment. She can't take it. “By all that is sacred! Is there no halt to this I may enforce!?!?”

Almighty just imparts. “: Interesting, since this a lesson for 'both' sides of the Eternal Branch, to learn from, if the folly of a Full War were ever allowed. This lesson should not be halted, just because it is unwanted. This since so much happens unwanted the same, we ill control, a many and much, too much a time. :”

Hild smirks and nods to her contemplation. “That is why my eyes are seeing for my own kin, this event, more than actively so. The Horde alone will take some lessons.”

Thor in kind... “And we of alike.”

The daggers between the two, this time, were not comical.

Nor was Freyana's snap! “I'll end this!!!” ..and her vehement departure in a pall of light! Frig just moaned and leaned her arms unto Almighty's melon. “She never fully accepted him. One of the few, unlike the rest of us.”

“Our Dark Lord would actually appreciate that.” ..the others looking warily at the CEO, prodding further with... “It all as well of note, makes him appreciate, for us and of us. Above and Below.”

Hild then notes over.. “Oh, and do expect Us, to crash your little party later.”

Frig sighed and knew better, what that meant. This is interrupted, as Thor then remarks. “Blazes, I do believe Lady Freyana is about to have a rough time of it.” ...this as a small group of Valkyrie's of Gold Wing note, weave their way towards the Petitioner Command Post.

----

Sigrun kept to the side of her Master alright. Not that being here was any easier to endure, than anywhere else in Heaven, at that moment. “For the twentieth time. It's too much Master.”

“For the twentieth time, agreed.” Imladris only remarked, as he kept quite calm, despite the morass about his vision. Evolution, extended of vision, was just as helpful to Imladris, as the Mints were of Lind. It was hard for anyone to find any comedy at the moment, all concentration put onto this immense undertaking, for the mere purpose of letting another learn of his skill set. And Imladris was pleased Lind was starting flex of the same. The assault on the extreme right flank, of Imladris's auspice, made Imladris conduct this sudden new tactic, of using a full force three dimensional attack, as the towering 'hammer' of at least three full Legions, of the Petitioner Host, were about ready. Valkyrie long range fire and prodding raiding attacks, were starting to focus on the new tactic, as the towering formation was almost ready.

For Sigrun, it was just a lesson, all of her own, of being Imladris's Apprentice. She still remembers from the start of the battle: Just take only what you wish, from all this, but keep in mind of everything else you see. A lesson of wants, and want not, that both still exist, all the same. Many a time the latter overwhelming the former.

“I got a headache.” Sigrun just moans anew. Imladris just shrugs, but then senses the incoming approach. One before another. One anticipated. The other, not so much.

Freyana, of the latter note, arrives of a high speed fashion. One with an exacting stop. One with a good huff to her facade!

Imladris bows as proper. “Migoddess Freyana.”

Freyana holds her tongue, as a massive lion headed, and white tiger striped headed Guardinal, stride up with gawd awfully massive battle axes of their own. Imladris waves this off smoothly, as he then hears from the agitated High Seat Goddess. “Call this all off now mortal!!”

Imladris winces a tic under the voice, but then asks.. “If this is also Lord Thor's, and especially His Eminence's will.”

“If I had such a Voice.”

Imladris heard the tone and risked.. “Speak of it then.”

Before more could be said, another God, of the Lower seat that still holds enough agitation of his own part, arrives just as suddenly as Freyana did. Sigrun blinks, as the Guardinals look ready to pounce on Lord Frode! Imladris has to wave them off with more effect, as he imparts. “You both realize you both are representative of the goddess side of all this?”

Freyana pokes at that logic, with a finger towards Sigrun. “Of her then?”

And to Sigrun's quick response. “I stand by my Master's side. Period.”

“She's picking up your same level of sense.” Frode quipped. Imladris didn't hear it as a compliment.Sigrun's growl was complimenting that tone. This as he looks at both Celestial Seats, and saw what he was expecting to see in someone's eyes, finally. “Well, at least I finally know I never would be expecting a free ride, from my Wish.”

Frode blinks, as Freyana snaps back. “You are mistaking my ire.”

“Am I?”

Frode listened, as Freyana glares. “Where do you presume to know even me?”

“The eyes tell enough. It 'never' changes. Whether between gods and mortals, or even mortals amongst themselves. The word need not be said. At the very least, I can gain an actual, true measure of comfort from it. My place should not be, is not that be of your minds? So hazard I do, 'to' know.”

Frode was smirking some more, as Freyana just sighs. “I don't like it. I'll never like it. Even if it's all meant to happen anyway. It's less about 'that', than just the thought that even change comes unto even those of the immortal. Almighty might act like It all doesn't affect even It of He, but I know far better. I for one, am not ready to make it so easy, against the name of change to purity. Tasteless it may seem, it 'has' a place amongst those that are in charge of all reality, for all actual form!

So stop smiling about all this, will you!!!!”

Even Sigrun found Imladris's pure open smile, kooky. She even half expected Imladris to start dancing a jig, given not all of Heaven was blindly giddy for his existence amongst Them. But more and more, Imladris was finding comfort in the word, rather than discomfort. Imladris relays this thought unto... “Humility is a good wall against ego's ills.”

Frode just smirks. “A vast change from what you felt long ago.” ...this Imladris blinks over, Frode adding. “You 'have' learned your lessons. Even if they reflect from my eyes, as past memory, of a mirror.”

Imladris sighed to that. “I'm sorry. I wish I could fully appreciate that. I.... eh?” ...Sigrun noting a bit more readily, than the two high gods, mainly due to focus. Imladris then adjusts his weapon of technological format hilt. “I apologize, but we'll have to continue this discussion later.”

Sigrun was just as ready, as Gray shoots out, and the Guardinals react to a sudden low and FAST approach of Jora's headhunter squad! The Valkyrie just smirks. “Now I get to see what my Sister finds so... yipe!” ...this as Imladris just snaps. “Don't move!” ...and attacks outright with his energy blade ablaze! Even if only a stun effect, the blade cuts through without mercy, taking two Valkyrie's down outright, as Jora snaps. “Don't move?! By what nuttiness...?”

“Not you!” Imladris snaps before he goes after her! The rest of the Guardinal Command Post unit throwing back the rest of the quick assault, just as viciously!

The two Councilors watch, as the fight resolves around them. Freyana starts to shout out... “Wait a...” ...and Frode remarks, of military calm. “You heard him.” ...as shards of an Axe splinter by, with no actual harm, where he stands. Period. “Let us not move.” ...as he watches his daughter put in her place, a bit more easily than Jora was prepared for. A couple of parries, a quick Gravity spell to bind her, as well as six of the remainder of the twelve Valkyrie unit. (The rest replaced by marble 'bodies-blocks'.)

Jora just sighs. “Well, now I know.”

Imladris smirks and then snaps out. “CRUSH that Hammer down!!!”

Sigrun spins... “Do it!!!”

Jora gasps as she sees enough of the massive 'hammer', just fall without mercy across the battlefield length. (Well past into the still forming Reserve lines.) The chaos incumbent just makes Imladris take a weird breath. “Hmmm... I love it when a plan comes together.” ...and he looks at a semi glum (hardly,) Jora. Imladris adds... “Do please tell Lind that for me, will ye?”

Jora has about a second to smirk at that, before she and her squad are literally hurled all the way back across the battlefield.

----

“I told you he'd not be so easy.”

Jora just rubs her welted melon. “Yeah yeah. But that toss I could have done without.”

Lind looks back to the deep gash in her lines, that was being severely pressed into by a full power assault on every side of the attack. Lind just shook her head. “I reacted too much. Blast it.”

Mist just comes around and pats her shoulders from behind. “Don't worry about it grrl. I made a mistake like that, one of my own first times out.” ...this as Rend bemoans. “Yeah. Tis a burden of emotion, over proper judgment when sending troops into a breached pass.” ...this Mist and Rend soon start pulling at each other's hair easily. Hirund doesn't say anything, when Phosus appears. “Hate to say it General, but they're using pushing us back on the right of 'our' flank.”

Lind nodded. “Opposite of where we were attacking.”

She knew now, that using her forces to close the breach, took away some of that Valkyrie-power, from the weakened flank. She also saw that support from the Petitioner Airships were giving too much advantage to them, despite as many boarding actions the Valkyries could muster. All those Griffin Fliers were making it difficult to do just that. And the assistance from above, was letting the calvary on below punch through in enough places, to let main infantry to slug their way through the cracks. This over the wide span, was how the Valkyrie right flank was being pushed back. This area was just an example of what was happening over most of the battlefield, despite the advance the Valkyries were conducting on the left flank.

Of course, Lind wasn't remiss on how much it took the Petitioners to push what they had so far. It was a test of will then, to see which side made the first morale break. Lind seethed at that. “I'll be divined, if I let us break morale. Phosus!”

“Ma'am!” Phosus readily replied. Lind then came up with a tactic of her own. Phosus was shocked to hear it.

And Hirund smiled at something that radical.

Not to mention already watching, and of a few scaled witnessing, wanting a part.

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

-The next three hours of the battle-

At the same, if quite untranslatable time frame as Keiichi was realizing he needed a proper Tux, as his early morning was filled with what Belldandy would look like that night, Imladris was utterly with his hands full. The arrival of Irtasus's clutch made sure of that. Even the still 'young' dragonlings, were enough of a problem to the Petitioner lines, as much as Irtasus and Yaltros, a horrid terror. (Still with stun effects. Heaven's spells were effective like that.)

Imladris swore to find out what price, this bargain would bring, while he was forced to adjust to an aerial onslaught. But he didn't get much time to adjust further, before Lind shifted a huge bulk of her reserves, to slam into the already pressed Petitioner right flank. It was the first real indication of which side was gaining a proper foothold. With the 'Hammer' wedge of his forces starting to buckle, Imladris finally had to make a more 'Petitioner' minded decision, rather than just let Lind keep learning of only her own accord.

He therefore took a risk, and sent a large portion of his own Reserves, into his own created breaches, and along with it, made a personal attack of his own. It was the first time he'd decided to use his own knowledge of mage scale spells, and in this case, a spell that combined his Incarnum and Gravity spell powers. One he attempted to use along a very broad scale of effect. Sigrun, Freyana and Frode all watched as Imladris cast a powerful battlefield scale spell, to slow the Valkyrie-Seraphim force, to a crawl.

And got another surprise in return, when within a two minute span, the slowed Valkyrie-Seraphim force, (mainly focused at the point of the Hammer breach point,) were 'saved', when Lind countered with a battlefield spell of her own! Only a sudden and last ditch refocus shift of spell power, into a battlefield shield of his last ditch of gravity power, prevented untold numbers of Petitioners, from being impaled by a torrent of icy shards! (And this time, stun was not the effect intended. Lind 'made' Imladris choose what was more important to him, the choice of saving his own troops, making a formal stalemate of the incredible affair.

One that sapped them both, for the immediate term, as after, the battle returned to the affair of which force penetration would break first. The noticeable effect, of hundreds of thousands of 'blocks', littering the battlefield now, was lost as more troops were either poured into the breached of either side, or plugging against the same breaches.

And then Thor got involved.

----

Almighty cocked an eye, as Frig shook her head. Hild just smirked as she munched her own version of celestial popcorn. (Over salted as always.) As Thor stood, he wrenched his arms forth. “: Heed my Will as War's Great Father. I command the elements, to create a fortress of my mind, equal to the scope of the affair being contested! Create as if it was memory of yesterday, of years ago! :”

As a result of the War God's spell, and literally as if out of nowhere, a massive torrent of common material, suddenly begins to form into a massive castle, one of many entrances, ramparts, spaces where battle could fill and contest, of a simple gray marble and foundation that formed essentially above, and between the two lines, as the effect 'pushes' the two armies apart in this new space. (Most of which done in a rather comedic, and panicky manner! With thousands doing that? Sheesh!)

It was a complex, floating citadel that didn't look any different, from the thousands of the same, magical type, that adorned world planes everywhere. Course this one, was as large as the battle already dictated, no less than a War God's wish for another iota to add to the chaos.

Thor smirked, and knew all was good. (To him.) He however looks back and sees the expectantly off kilter looks of confusion. Thor just quips back. “It twas all looking all too conventional, at this point.”

Hild just smirked. “You just want to see the lovebirds fight each other in there, eventually. How quaint.” ..this Frig actually betrays a gaff at. Thor looks dopey, trying to hide a blush. Frig just shakes her head. “Oh Brother.”

----

And to her/his credit...

Imladris and Lind at the same moment of realization!: “Get troops into there fast, before the other one does!”

This just started sapping both their remaining Reserves, as now even more raw Valkyries of the earliest, effective abilities, were being sent in, no less of recent inductees, even some only hours old of the Valhalla, were thrust in, as the battle for the Citadel (later archived as,) began. And all it merited, by the end of the Sixth hour of fighting, was a lot of friggen complaints from the Medical Section. (About the same time Frig shooed Keiichi off to find a said tux. About only fifteen minutes later, Earth focused time.)

Thus a stalemate was reached that had to break.

And it broke in a wholly unforeseen way.

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

-Earth, outside Whirlwind-

Chihiro blinked very much surprised. “What are you...?” ...this as Tamiya stands just inside the entry area, off the road, with a bouquet that is as large and gaudy as he is. The nervous chuckles and sweating are something else entirely. “Uhhmmmm...”

And Chihiro ulps out... “Don't tell me...”

“Uhh... wuddaya... ah... lika tas goes to da Ball dingy with... ahh.. mwe?”

Chihiro just holds her head from an instant migraine, as Tamiya looks so weak kneed, he's waggling around like a jackhammer. (And an earth spirit nearby just grumbles of it.) That is before the slight smirk she hides well.

And then her demands begin. (Among other problems.)

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

Keiichi and Keima just stand outside a spiffy tux shop. Both might as well have mirrors next to each other instead, given their dour faces. Keima just bemoans. “Just because I got yelled at to go get a tux, doesn't mean I know this stuff very well.”

Keiichi snickered. “A long time since I last wore one of these.”

Both just sighed, just as Talos and Troubadour get kicked out of the same shoppe!! A yelling proprietor of... “Come back when you don't make us all sick!!” (Like bouncing ball they were.) Keima sees this with a jittery eye. “This could take awhile.”

This as they then see Keiba come up. “Uh... guys?” ...this Keiichi turns at. “Eh? Where's Megumi?”

“She was 'called' by Frig. I think she's got something cooked up.”

Keima keeps his jittering eye as the two other-worlders are just yelling at each other in the background. “Not so much help for us, I guess.” ...this as Keiichi looks back. “Eh? Haven't you ever done anything fancy with Takano?”

Keima actually lets slip out. “You know how your mother is.” ..and dropped it there. The three Japanese males just droop their heads in simult. Keiichi admits. “More time working on engines, than manners. Guess we could use gold guys help with this one.”

“Hah. Such a switch.” Keiba quips, Keima nodding dryly. Keiichi then sighs. “I know gold guy said to have a Ball... er.. for me... something. But do I really deserve it?” ...this he blinks. “And now I even sound like gold dude.”

Keima then comes through with. “If we celebrate with the ones we love, then that can be all the celebration is meant for.”

The lot smile at that.

And then they suddenly see Tamiya trample over at them!!! The three see and YELP!! Keiichi: “AHH!! Tamiya!”

“Guyzz! Helps me! HELPS ME!!!!”

The screams just get higher, all around.

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

When Takano and Megumi appear at the Temple, they are welcomed over by Belldandy. “Greetings.”

“So, we sure were told to come. Care to tell us why?”

Megumi nods, adding.. “Yeah, was kinda wanting to see what Keiba picked out. Might give me a clue too.”

Belldandy just smiles, as Frig then calls out. “Okay, everyone is here that's supposed to.”

Peorth floats out, ahead of Urd still teasing Skuld about the earlier incident. They all meet up in the open walkway between the entryway and the structures. Megumi however asks. “What about Chihiro? I mean... not like... that she...”

Frigurina just giggles as much as Belldandy does, as the latter imparts. “Chihiro will be among us soon enough.”

Takano blanches. “I shoulda brought earmuffs.”

Frigurina then brings up. “So Belldandy, my wonderful daughter. How best do you think we should celebrate your dear Keiichi?” ...this Belldandy takes up a pose with her right hand over her heart. Megumi just giggles. “Big Bro really must have done something to deserve all this.”

Skuld just moans. “Even if it was Cousin's demand.”

Takano of note, appreciates what Belldandy espouses next. “We've told, lived through, and experienced so many stories, my 'and' our Keiichi and I. I am sure it was Cousin's intention for Keiichi to be shown as much appreciation, as he is soon to be shown. I am sure Keiichi appreciates us all for all the same reasons that we do of him. It is a mutual celebration, if it is only in my Keiichi's name.”

“More as we stand here even.” Frig giggles out. Takano and Megumi just go pip eyed, as Urd eyes over. “You know, being essentially in two places at once, can give you a headache.”

Frig just smiles.

Belldandy then adds. “I want to show Keiichi, how much I love him, for all the love he's shown us all.”

“I think we can do just that.” Takano responds in kind. Peorth then rubs her palms together. “Bien alors. We'll need to set up the Ballroom in the Temple, as Chevalier instructed.”

“Allow moi.” Frig offers, before then imparting. “And while I make a simple stretch of spells, You gals need some practice.”

Skuld quips. “Practice?” ...this as Frig quips. “Between us ladies, mortal or high. How much dancing experience, do we all persay have here? Beyond moi of course. (An eternities worth of Balls and all such.)”

Urd quips. “I went to a few myself.” ...and looked at by Frig. “Usually more to spike the punch than more else.”

Takano quips with a weirded out Meg. “You means you gals have thats little experience here? I thought Megumi and me were on the outside of all that.”

Frigurina smiles for em all. “I assure ye all, there is a lacking on both sides of the sexes here. Such will be attended to even now.”

Meg however blanches anew. “But... how are we supposed to dance fancy, in only a few hours? I thought all that stuff took a lot of time to learn?”

Peorth giggles out in her own flair. “Oh, there are ways around that.”

The offer even made Urd uneasy.

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

“Oh Otaki-kun! You look so dashing!”

“Me? You're the one that looks great! Even gorgeous Satoko!”

Satoko, a lovely lavender silk-velvet lined gown, jewelery to match the Yamano family standing. And Otaki, a strong looking tux combo, with a overcoat to match, both stand before each other in the Yamano residence foyer. The elder Yamano just smiles proudly. “Never a proper looking couple, I could have gained, for losing my daughter.”

Otaki just speaks in a weirded out tone. “Gosh... uh... dad. I just feel great being with Satoko here! Thanks for helping us both get ready for Keiichi's Ball.”

“Not a problem at all. 'Son.'”

The two gents just trade a still uneasy look, though only because of new titles not yet fully used to. Satoko however has 'no' problem with her own version. “So, shall we off then to have our picture taken, before heading on over, husband?”

“Oh sure! Sounds great sweetie!”

Just then, a suddenly heavy knock shakes their nerves loose! Otaki's... “What tha?” ...is absconded by a loud... “Open up in there Otaki! It's an emergency!!! I know you're in there dope!!”

Satoko blinks. “That's Chihiro's voice.”

The elder gent opens said dented door, this Chihiro sees... “Can we help you, young lady?” ...to the still quite young lass's immediate bow! “Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry! I....”

“It's quite alright.” Yamano allows, amused to see what occurs next, as Chihiro... “Right then!” ...and shoots RIGHT up to the young in love couple! “Okay bub! I need to know everything you have about Tamiya!”

“Huh? Tamiya?! I... wait... you mean he...!?!?”

Satoko immediately grasps goings on as well, and clasps Chihiro's every grubby hands, without hesitation! “You mean you two really and finally...!?!?”

“Not so fast!!” Chihiro blanches out, having to gasp before forcing... “I can't say either way yet, without knowing about a guy, I spent all this time avoiding! And this after he asks me, and all that dorky stuff too!”

Yamano just watches with growing laughter in his heart, as Satoko and Otaki take one look at each other, and then both quip in simult... “Yup, just like we thought.”

“HEY!!!”

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

-Heaven-

Frigurina just smiled, as she sat in her Husband's lap. “Tis a busy time down on Below.”

“The same as here.” Hild remarks, the sounds of the now seven and a half hour old battle, that seemed ready to last another day, if it all alone, had it's way. Not that Thor nearby was bored one bit. “I need to burn an Archive Disc for watching later!”

The other three just shake their heads, as Almighty watches, seeing with All vision, Imladris's Command Post was still absconded by Freyana's and Frode's presences. An interesting development, as It also noted Lind was literally' 'growing' into her new command.

The notice of two distinct focuses, however is interceded by an approach of... “Administrator Eihwa. Do please speak outside formality.” ...this as Eihwa noted this before she fully arrived. She bows anyway as she offers... “Pardon My Great Lord, but we seem to be developing a problem with the Telephase Program that is being conducted here.” ...this Thor quips upon... “The Program governing the replacement of casualties with marble forms? What of it?”

Eihwa says the next, with exasperation. “Scusa, but it seems the problem lies with the Bug Deprogramming Section. I fear...”

“So that is what I was feeling.” Frigurina quips, rubbing her chin. Almighty nods. “Let it come to pass then.”

The lot blink, a few more than gasping. Eihwa... “By My Lord!”

Almighty then explains it simply...

----

Lind knew the situation, of her keen eye(s), and knew it was about that time.

“Neither of us will give on the flanks, neither of us will flat give in.” The new General however smirked. “Let's see if he can be rattled.” ...and looked over at her Sister and Titira, via a holographic screen. “Mind if you two send a message for me?”

The other three Generals just eyed each other. (Bemusedly.)

----

-ten minutes later-

“Aren't you two on the wrong side?”

Freyana just huffs. “All the better to oversee you with.” ...this Lord Frode keeps his face level. Sigrun just shrugs as Imladris twitches an eye, before snapping out to his Command. “Push that calvary forth on our breaching flank already!”

“Doing it now Master.” ...Sigrun smirked, as He saw a renewed, focused assault on the Petitioner left Flank. As he saw the renewed thrust, a gorilla type Guardinal then snaps. “We've taken a prisoner!”

Imladris blinks, as he then senses to the fore of the battlefield right. This as a good contingent of Avian Guardinals approach with two Valkyries bound. One Imladris recognizes. “You again?”

Jora just smirks, as Titira is introduced. The latter then imparts. “The Seventh Host gives their regards, this I surrender unto.”

Frode snickered, to Freyana's confusion, before Imladris cracked... “Surrendered? Surrendered!?!?”

Jora just smiles uneasily, as Commander Titira gets the expected. “Go back to whence you came! And tell Lind I tain't surrendering for nothing! Get em back outta here!”

And the Guardinals do simply that, to a beet red knight in all this wake. Sigrun just stands passively amused, as Imladris rants about his Command, and the two High Seats for a bit. “Of all the... that lass of a... by all that is blemished... I... ARGH!!!!! A Valkyrie surrendering!?!!? Of all the impure, scandalous, ire drawing impudence! Demons becoming angels will happen more often!! And to abscond myself towards the SAME!?! BLASPHEMY!!!”

Imladris finally just spins back around and YANKS his blade out! “Summon my War Party!”

Just then, as his Command goes haywire about him, (literally,) a new portal beam suddenly appears, as Frode sees to a grimace. “Oh dear, this was coming.” ...as Imladris steps up at the arrival of the Medical Section Seat. “: A word if... : ...I may, Lord Knight.”

“Lady Ishara.”

Imladris then is actually handed a tablet, explained as... “A formal complaint from everyone in the Medical Section. What after having to create over seventy new Clerical Structures alone, aside from triage centers and all.”

Imladris just bemoans. “Sheesh, if all ye wanted as an autograph, ye could have asked more simply.”

Ishara smirks, folding her arms. “Indeed, in fact. However the complaint from me at least, is genuine enough.”

The knight just looks back at the Training Judicator, whom has this 'nice' grin, most appeased at this turn, and notes little help coming from this vector. Imladris just reflect back. “A mother's concern is noted. However, do expect one more complaint to be added soon here.” ...and flips his blue diamond blade, into something more conventional.

Ishara then remarks, quite seriously... “If that be the case, then my daughter chose poorly of one so weak.” Imladris chuckles in turn. “I assure you migoddess, I truly do, that it has taken a dear amount of strength to hold to her eye. All this time, and all more to come.”

The Lion headed Guardinal Commander then strides up, holding one HECK of a Spear-axe! “We... are ready.”

“Is there more Migoddess?” ...of a Knight's query.

“Only what my daughter wrought forth cometh.”

“Apprentice, hold thine Post-a-Fort.”

“Aye Master.”

Medical Seat and Knight just smirk each, before a High Command War Party heads dead straight for the Citadel.

And then Freyana starts feeling it. “Oh bugger.”

----

Lind senses quickly this sudden change, her heart more sensing over all else. She then cranes her head back. “It's time Valkyries.”

Mist... “To do?”

Rend... “...or do not?”

Hirund (fiddling for a coin in her... author not looking.) “What a question.” ...and flips her heavenly coin, to the eye of Phosus and Tsuyana watching. Jora and Titira landing as Hirund quips... “Call it Sister.”

Lind cocks an eye and notes. “Heads.”

Goddess-modding two head-sided coin...

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

-The last forty-five minutes-

Long since attended along all possible sides, outside the Fields, the throngs of Section goddesses from so many, it would have seemed Heaven stopped all it's functions for this one affair. This including far too many Debugging Section goddesses that skimped out of work. Hence one problem that was about ready to crop up. This was overlooked, as after all of this spectacle, it finally came to the head of what Thor engineered. The two armies Captains finally made their mutual move, this as a good Host each just charged with each, into the Citadel, even as a decent fight was already taking place within. There was such a tussle as a result.

It seemed every last opening and surface and crag and breach was filled with fighting galore.

Seemed pointless from further a standpoint of bludgeoning at each other, as long as each Host knew their Captain was willing to continue on. This was not lost on Lind, a few minutes into the invasion of the Citadel, from her side of the front, as she threw off Petitioners with such ease.

“Never can an imagination prepare for this kind of scene.”

Hirund swat away a giraffe Guardinal and quips over. “And yet it lasts for so long, does it not?”

Lind nods, but then remembers... “I'll have to explain it to him!” ...and attacks with such a fervor! Hirund notes and smirks. “She'll fit in well.” ...and then follows the lead of her other two Sisters, to the dismay of many a Petitioner before them!

---

Imladris did just as much on his end, as he looked down a random Valkyrie Commander. The Valkyrie of lavender curls, just snips. “At least let me enjoy this moment.”

Her quickly cut down form, forming into a marble block just leaves with it, knightly words of... “Enjoy.” ...and looks around, the ebb and flow of the morass around him, of a life all it's own. It seemed for every Petitioner, a Valkyrie or Seraphim was about to find and combat unto. The ones that attempted the same of Imladris, didn't last long.

He 'apologies'... “Heca!! I have only one that meets my equal.” ...and looks up to the ascent of unseen tower above.

A strange idea then begins to form, and literally runs with it towards a 'cut through' staircase.

Leaving behind the marble block, that starts twitching and phasing....

----

Frigurina looks weird, using such antique looking opera spectacles, of a use only a celestial can enjoy. “Well, I give them twenty more minutes before they meet. Sheesh, at least give the gals a half chance Nephew.”

Hild looks with vision not needing spectacles. “And why should he do that? It is sporting enough to just draw a blade all the same.”

Frig shrugs, before Thor then actually asks. “Pardon My Lord, but should they not be warned?”

Almighty just imparts 'level'. “: They will know, when time comes. Soon enough. More than. Simple. :”

“Such a level of trust.”

A new voice joins them, this time as Eihwa is absent to prevent the inevitable. Instead, a look in kind that makes even Hild stutter a look. This as Almighty nods. “: Indeed there is. You should know of the kind. :”

This, a aged gentleman of white in white, beard and staff all the same, as a half sized kindred stands to the right, looking at a sight the Perian just shakes his head at. “Seems such a waste for a scene. Too large for even Men to stand.”

Thor chuckles, as the elder Stormcrow just quips. “And yet it is not ours to waste, just to witness as guests.”

At this, Frig hops off and rises as much as Almighty does. This seeing two more Heroes Chosen now present, the Lord bows readily. Thor quickly rises and does the same, as does Frigurina. Hild moans and does the same, if uneasily for her part. The Heroes do the same, quite regally at that. Almighty then greets. “: I humbly greet you as Guests of Heaven, Ringbearers. :”

“We are honored. My kin and I.” ...the 'little' one replies, though this one is far 'larger' than that.

Frig rises and then giggles. “Oh if our Nephew knew what was awaiting him in the short term.”

“So I've heard. Much in fact, since learning of our Invitation.” ...from the elder Mythrandir... “And I greet in return, I Eru i orilye` mahalmar `ea. Do please forgive us if we seem out of place for it all.”

Just then, a strange 'shimmer' voices out from the battlefield, as do some unexpected shouts as well. A very detailed eye, sees that it's finally started. Almighty remarks to the last. “: This will be the Banner Day, for all such to meet. :”

----

Seemed it did, comical, that so many bodies of each side, were more tossed aside, rather than cut down, the more the two Captains approached each other. (To the point they could actually smell each other. Eww.) The running battle eventually just left behind their original following forces, and even most of their Parties, as Imladris had only a couple of Guardinal Commanders, and Lind of her new 'Sisters', with Commanders Jora, Phosus and Tsuyana in close concert. This meant that Imladris (as usual,) had to fight through twice more than Lind had to. The knight at one point, of all those Valkyries that allayed him. “Tis not a fan club I am peeling through here! HECA!! HECA!!!”

Eventually however, a large enough platformed terrace is reached, by Lind's War Party first. The few troops of either side there, quickly stop as all 'that' power in one place, had to be marveled. Phosus just remarks with a hair put back in place. “Should all that have been as easy?”

Mist quips back... “You're welcome.” ...flipping her golden Axe clean of Guardinal fur. (And some blood from the flat end. Primarily the flat in fact.) Hirund then looks around. “And of course, he's late.”

Lind replies to that, with sound of grunts in her lobes. “But not by much.” ...this the warrior lot see a sudden ejection of several Valkyries from the ascending stairwell, opposite the area the Valkyrie Commanders came. Imladris quickly appears off this, snarling... “I said no autographs, I... ah? Ahhhh...” ...to the sight he was looking for, though one tactical split second later of looking, gains... “Ut oh... bad odds.”

Lind just flips her still standard and thrust Axe to her sidelong and behind. “Are you satisfied with your intent today?”

Imladris smirks, as his Guardinal Commanders arrive behind. He notes the three of the powerful beasts, before the knight looks back with... “Only if the lesson is understood. General.”

Lind smirks, as the platform area around them, is dang well bare. Only a few blocks (twitching unnoticed,) lie about, as Imladris then speaks behind him. “Now, do take it easy on the Commanders. They've had a long day. I understand if they want to surrendernow.”

And that gets the three Commander's danders up. Hirund then imparts. “Only if those kitties behind you can keep up. We'll have to handle the pup ourselves then.”

“Four on one. Just like the ancient days.” ...ala stressing knight.

Lind smirks, her Axe hand tensing. “Am I equal to Thor then here?”

“Maybe.”

The plain tone just SETS Lind off, and hard onto Imladris's blade! The 'remainder' of the two sides take their quick turn, locking blades and skills all over the place! The details are lost in the blare of so much skill, spell power, angel 'assistance', and the pure joy of battle, as the twin sets of Commanders have at thee, as much as Imladris is at his quick wits end!!!

The originating Generals however are pretty much just harrying and supporting, giving Lind more than enough clear a lane at her Confessor, though Imladris has little time to appreciate this, given all four of them together are an incredible force to endure! Evolution aside him is in just as much over his head, as the General's Angels just attack as much as their mistresses do. (At times even separating to make Evolution do the same to protect his master. And in short order, a few minutes of this pass, as Imladris shoves Lind back to the platform level, and chants quickly! “Incarnum a burst and blaze and shudder push!!!”

A Incarnum force burst spell sends a bubble of blue energy out in an absolute sphere!

And just as viciously back at the owner! “Send this arcane force back to whence and came!” ...for Lind's spell slams an icy sphere all around and catches Imladris off guard! It crushes into him so hard, he has to gasp for breath, and fight to keep even to his knees!

The fight stops there for a moment, as Lind walks over and then rests the angry point of her Axe, under his chin.

“Surrender, and I 'might' be merciful.”

Imladris chuckles, and then coughs out a bit of blood, quite real enough to make Lind shudder and blink to. But as she's seen for years now, the bloke felled, just remarks. “A Knight of Heaven, never surrenders. Never!!”

Lind feels that ancient flutter of heart, though Mist remarks to this nearby. “Is that what you called all that with Hild and such?”

Lind strikes a look back that Hirund and Rend give the same quickly, Mist wilting in realization. Lind however is forced to then spin back as she senses and blocks a magnificently harsh blow!! Imladris already to his feet, just snaps out... “I called all that, Lind saving my arse! This form is far different!!”

And a new General smiles.

And then the off kilter yells, hollers, and screeches reach their ears, changing everything of this battle outright! Hirund blinks wide eyed, all around! “What the blazes!?”

And then a 'weird', wobbly sound makes them all look around... “What be this...?” ...to Imladris's tone, with eyes adjoining, laying on the sight of... “Be that a inert form of block, or not?” ...this the lot see the few marble block, actually wobbling about, before, to their collective shock, Bugs start popping out of each and every one!!

Rend is aghast.. “Bugs?!?! But how...!?”

Lind looks back. “Hirund?!”

“I know not! This is unpreciden... ACK! Off of me fuzzy turd!!” ...and gives an offending bug of too many legs and cuteness, a good WHACK of her Axe! (Flat end, of such skill.) The collective yells all around, make Imladris gulps out. “I fear something is alas.” ...and shoots up some. Lind follows, as do Hirund and Phosus of note. And the shock of the day of it all, rounds out to a battlefield, where to their vision, the 'mounds' of fallen, are now alive, pink, and scurrying/bouncing, about everywhere, with untold amounts of buggy chaos!

Imladris just gulps. “Uhboy. I think I forced something unintentionally here.”

Lind just rolls her eyes. “Oh aye. Only 'you' could cause the Mother of all Bug Incidents.”

“Of 'Father', in his case.” Phosus makes a light joke of, which isn't argued any, as the sight just makes the once orderly (semi) battlefield, a rolling chaos. Lind then remarks. “At least they all seems to be mainly ground side.” ...though a sight of a passing airship aflame to the fore, unto a long crash landing, with Bugs popping out of it like paratroops, just gives comedic pause.

Lind quickly however... “Fix this we must. All of us that calls ourselves of Heaven.”

And two former foes of Captains, look at each other, and nod once. Hirund is as much surprised, as pleased, when the next command that snaps out from them both... “Let this Field become as one, and cleanse of this Infestation, as one True Host!”

Hirund just smiled and looked on below. Seeing one hopping quarry. “Come here, little victim.” ...and went hunting.

And as such, the Battle of the Citadel, turned into the Father of all Bug Hunts. The absolute Father of them all. Representatives of every Section were involved, as goddesses, especially the Debugging goddesses, went all Valkyrie on the Bug morass! All across the battlefield, and then soon enough, all across Heaven's vast Sections!! The scene took place in every area of major note! It was just glory of manic fun. (When it was all realized past the chaos.)

Wow.

----

Even Almighty was taken aback for a rare once. “Such a trust, if one this chaotic not fully seen.”

This before Thor's hammer literally smashes seven with one BLOW! “Have at thee!!!” ...and even Frig and Hild are in on some rare fun! “Get back here you furry little heathens!” ... “What Our blinding Doublet just said!!” ...some standard Bug hammers waving WILDLY!!!

Almighty and the two present Ringbearer guests, just chuckle at it all. Good and healthy.

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

-Earth-

“You called for me, My Mistress?”

Hild just sighed as she threw aside the memory fresh in her mind, even if it was within Heaven's grace. (Such is her inward gagging.) “Oh, just wanted a quick update down here, since we was busy elsewhere. We don't get to catch up like we used to.”

Mara started to speak, but Hild... “And now We know, thank you for coming minion.”

The Demon First Class just sighs. “I know you just see me as a servant to you, and I do like (somewhat,) being your servant. But cannot I have a teeny bit of respect, to at least speak my own words?”

Hild cocked a bare caring eye at this, and quipped. “Nay.”

Mara just sighed.

“Worried for not having a date for this eve, ol minion?”

Mara blinked and looked away. Hild just smirked. “Oh we know your mind, since I care zilch for your privacy. You miss him, do ye not?”

A face Mara hadn't thought about, creeped back in, from that ancient, if failed, galaxy campaign. She was wondering whatever truly happened to Demon First Class Satorna. Hild noted this and shrugged. She instead was thumbing through a local Nekomi phone book. “Now, whom to crash the party tonight, in an arm of and with. One to make Keiichi 'dear', uneasy.”

Mara heard this and blurted off a blank mind... “What about that Aoshima fellow you were messing with Mistress?”

Hild smirked, and already had the same idea. “Yes. Such a marvel idea. Whom better worse indeed. We're glad we thought of it.”

Mara just half cheers behind, as Hild pulls out her personal CEO's only cell phone. (One with a 'hell' of an hourly rate plan.)

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

-The edge of Galaxy 2189, Spiral Arm Terffna-

It was an awesome fleet within that pitch darkness, little starlight to betray them by eye, and sensor blocking capabilities to ensure their approach was undiscovered. Three full Fleet Groups of the old Demonic Fleet mode, as bloated as they could be crammed, all for only one particular target. This the Marian Imperious remnants approached from a dark dust cloud of inert, nebulous material. Other than a few immediate short range patrols to root out any unsuspecting victims, none as of yet, the Marian Imperious kept their activities very suffused. And now more than ever, to ensure by.

The Emperor watched from his massive mobile citadel as the full might of his wrath was made ready to operational bear.

“Her Will is ready to be unleashed.”

The Emperor turned from a baleful gaze at the bright, gargantuan galaxy before his vision, towards a now active holographic sphere projection, of the same galaxy. A few 'minion' Commanders waited as the Emperor approached, a simple clad of gray and deep blood red lined robes that fit the character, the face hidden in a saccloth of a cowl, demanded. “Status.”

“All commands are ready to begin the insurrection. It will still take us two to three weeks to make the journey, with at least three major shipping lanes to cross along the way. Plenty to destroy and sow of reap.”

The Emperor just responded. “Too much life here. A heathen trove of vessels wrought from a Nemesis's actions. To destroy it all would not be effective enough. But to fracture it all, with one stroke, will do so much more. Especially after intelligence indicates of the current political arrangement, of our victims.

One proper stroke indeed, and it all will crash.”

And then he thought to himself... “(It will then bring him, if not beforehand, to prevent. As as Her Will expects.)”

Just then, a breeping sound causes a Marian controller to focus a holoscreen unto an area... “Sire. Only a parsec away.”

The Emperor watched. Four detailed blips that soon focused from long range scans, into apparently, three Colony Class Starvessels, and one escorting Frigate Class. The detail alone, of ships that looked too much like the architecture of the Heavenly Enemy the vessel absconded-allied into, detested. Detested in this case, was such a weak word to use.

And yet, the Emperor knew where to begin. “Likely in the hundreds of thousands. So innocent. So open.

Begin with them, and advance until we reach The Illumina Star System.

Slay them all.”

One of the Marian Commanders hit a holobutton.

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

-That elongated, Heavenly afternoon-

Imlade just sighed. “Well, finally hit the record, for it all.” ...this as he held a good sized white tablet that Lind craned her head over, from Imlade's right. “Wow, over ten million complaints, from every Heavenly Section.”

The other Generals nearby just giggled, as Lord Frode just bemoaned. “There has been such little stability, since the days of your coming unto us.” Imlade in turn just shrugs. “Used to be, Master Thor and I would get only a couple thousand complaints per training week. Mainly from support Sections to the War Section. The best we ever did was fifty thousand one time. Oh yeah!” ...with a wacky fist pump.

Hirund behind snickered. “That was a bad day to get Master Thor mad at you.”

Frode and Ishara each just sighed back. “You broke half of Training Sector that day.” ... “And then another half of Medical, when you jibed Thor into another fight.”

Imladris droned out. “Such is what happens when he tried to sass Lind, that particular day.”

Lind leans in, as Jora to the other side blinks. “Is that what happened? Tis that why Almighty took it easy on punishment for overdoing things?”

Imladris just looks neutral. “Perhaps.”

Lady Rend just groaned with face in hand. “And only fifteen years later, did you find each other 'properly'. Oyah, what children.”

“And if I had known Lind had a family, it'd had been even longer! Such is my wuss.”

Lind just drew beady eyes at her armored Confessor, as Jora just remarked to... “Mother, I think you can disown him now of us.” ...Frode adding. “Officially, such can be added.”

Imlade just jittered back, mainly to Lind. “You know how long you were intimidating to me? I remember the day still, you broke three of my ribs, back when I was still in the Valkyrie Training Regimen.” ...this Lind blinks. “You remember that? I'm not sure I do. You got busted up so much even then.” ... “Aye! How such could I approach a whole family, when I already knew how 'you' were! Thor was impulsive enough... and... wait, you're not taking it right Lind. I... hey! Jora, stop holding my shoulders! I... L.. Lady Ishara! Wait! Control thyself and ye Husband! I...

Do my words mean zip here!?!?”

Not at the end of a four way beat down, apparently. Lord Frode's family, are such in synch with each other. Such a treasure.

Such pain of skill implemented.

----

“That actually felt good.” Frode admits, Ishara rubs her own palms. “Interesting to use the old White Wing training, rather than healing skills for once.”

Lind then 'teaches' Jora. “See? Keeping the underlings in line, keeps civility for everyone else to follow. It's the natural order as I've understood it.”

“Too bad there's only one of him to practice that upon.”

Lind thumbed her chin at that. (And a knightly form looks nice and smudged.)

----

“Cheers.”

Gate did likewise, her cup of tea, clinking off her youthful guest's own. Gate's cheer at her company, quite literally, made her doldrum day, so much brighter. No less for her realm of a chamber. Everything seemed sunnier, of a heavenly mode. Gate just smiled. “Ahhh... if more days could be like this.”

The young quasi-child just remarked back. “Though weird, since I'm supposed to remain here for a good while. Never was told why.”

Gate was already told, but kept to her own accord. “Why ask why? Just enjoy with me.”

“But.”

“DRINK SAID I!”

“-slurp-”

----

Imladris held his head, nice and welted. “Great, I think my head is ringing again.” ...thinking it was from more than a Lindful source. Hirund just walks over and leans unto... “Such should not sass a Valkyrian family.”

The old of Imladris, in this case, takes over. “I know, just... the old reasons come up. The reasons that took me so long, added to now ones knowing that I was once someone else.”

Frode of note, just focuses, as Imladris picks himself up readily, and remarks... “I'm still uncertain if I should even be here. A Hero's Ball sounds enough for someone that had accomplished their tasks. Voluspa and Caceroth are still out there, so celebrating even my current auspice, seems unwarranted, even against history all the same.

There seems too many things unknown, to be dealt with, that I just am not prepared for. How I dare wonder, the blazes did Tyr conduct it all?”

“My own Master asked that question once. Of a form.”

The lot listen, as Frode sighs and from his words, add anew, from an ancient past. Far more ancient than Lind had ever known. “From the day, that the Lord of Strategy took me as his Apprentice, I learned he was always concerned with things that couldn't be learned of fully. Even despite such a wisdom, that helped my own ascent to my current Seat. There is so much I could teach you, of him, if not for the fact, I really do look at you, as a nigh mirror of my old Master.

It's hard for me to teach, what is already all but there anyway. All that seems to be missing, is the confidence I saw in him, of the one I speak to now.”

“It's a confidence that took my heart.” Ishara comes of words next. The Medical Seat takes Frode's left arm, they both looking at a passive knight. “I look to it, every day that I do my own job, of my charged Section. After today even, I learn well why we of my Section, are meant to do our jobs.

But it's a mother's concern that I have to add, when I hear your words of your lackings, over the strengths I've learned well as much as any.”

Imladris tilts his head at Lind, as Jora then speaks next. “It's the same strengths where I got my own confidence from, when I hear my own parents speak to me. Also of their objections and concerns the same. It seems I am seeing now, where it all comes from.”

The Lord Knight nods lightly, before he feels his own arm absconded. Lind smiles at this. “A circle then, I would find your own character, affecting my own. Words, actions, ideals, even mistakes. Grand and small alike. Even the pain I inflict, is a joy only a love can bring. As harsh as we all can be, it all seems to have come from one source.”

Imladris chuckles, and shakes his head. “Such a weird lineage, that comes full circle here. It would seem indeed then, I have so much to learn. I suppose, everyday that one lives, they always will have a need to educate upon. Whether wanted or not.”

Frode just sighs a moan. “It really is the same as I remember. Such are those words. I feel strangely young, hearing it.” ...this Ishara giggles, a bit much like the young goddess she once was. (Compared to the mature, beautiful version anyway.)

This soon then became the impasse that General Mist, lightly coughs into. “If ye all are comfortable enough to not wreck our godson into, as of the current moment or further, then would ye all understand then, our own next actions of agreement here.” The lot look at each other and then nod understandingly, as the three nominal Generals nod to each other again.

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

Frig led Sigrun, as the Norn floated aside Chrono. The Controller Section goddess more a 'shoulder' to lean on, after all the havoc of the Battle of the Citadel was dealt with. Frigurina decided that with all the 'clean up', taking place, as well as a Master's own meeting with a 'former' apprentice, with family, now going, that this was a time that was fair, for what Frig guessed Imladris brought Sigrun up to Heaven for.

This as they soon stop before the chamber door of the Almighty One. The on duty goddess of the Secretarial Section, just looked up, her lime green tresses fluttering with her movements. “Yes My Eternal Lady?” ...as the same goddess eyed a pensive Sigrun, Chrono for her part, just rigid for all realization.

“Our audience with His Eminence, is expected.”

As the Secretarial goddess makes the appropriate functions on her holo controller, Sigrun just mulls a ton of pent up questions in her mind. All of them lain to the same curse she was stuck into, with no say at all. Chrono then spoke up. “I presume I should remain here, My Lady?”

Frigurina looks back and actually takes a moment to consider. She then nods. “I fear it may be best. This will be tense enough, even if the truth must be said.”

“Finally?”

Sigrun's only syllable, makes Chrono gulp. She however puts a hand on Sigrun's shoulder. “Um... no matter what happens, I'll... I'll be here when you come back out. Okay?”

Sigrun sighs a slight smile, though it's gone in a kooky flash, as Chrono asks off kilter. “Uh... she 'is' gonna be coming back out. Right?” Frig then fingers her chine, anime thoughtfully, whit Sigrun just blanches back... “Thanks for that vote of confidence, mom!”

“His Eminence is ready, Lady goddesses.”

The lot then see the large door to Almighty's Chamber start to open. Frig just blinks dryly at this with... “Sheesh, the monolithic effect is so vogue. What a drone.”

And then they enter.

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

Lind was a bit pensive herself now, as she floated beside her floating forth Confessor, as they were going into... “This area is unfamiliar to me.” ...a place even Imladris hadn't seen. Within The Chamber of Valor, of a deep place that was becoming serenely imposing, an effect was pure unique, as they enter a grove of crystal statues. Forms of the kind that Lind soon remarked... “Former kin.”

Rend nodded back, as the Three led their new guests... “We were not the first, even if to our Pup, we seem to have been around forever. There have been a number of others, but also of this place, a rare area so few can access, as it attests to another function in Heaven, that so few are aware. This place then, is both a shrine, as well as a marker of our passing kin.”

Hirund quips with eyes forward. “The Moselium. Any time a goddess or god dies in the service of Heaven, they are remembered forever, in original form, here. But further within is a shrine, to the triumph of the War Section, and it's leaders. You'll notice, there are not as many as it seems here, more of less, within of deep.”

Lind nods, as she sees in this crystalline chamber, set no more or less, than a simple shrine, almost church like, of a domed format, where the lost, are kept of form they once were, in life. And the large chamber, easily a stadium that matched any other chamber in Heaven's vast structure caste, was one that was eerily empty of the space that could fill it. Only a single, circular 'band-ring' of crystal floats on above, adding to the mysticism here. This was all deliberate, as focus was meant for every crystalline statue that floated above it's own pedestal of equal crystal, with a large garden of crystal grass and six spoke pathways that lead to a small crystal pavement encircling the pedestals. It was a simple area, leaving ample space for each individual shrine. There 'were' many, but still, not as many as indeed could be.

It attested to the fact, Lind and Imladris soon knowing readily, that for all the Eons of the System's existence, within Existence altogether, that there was a finite number of shown celestials that had passed on. This left the rest of Heaven, to show the shrine of Life, opposed to all this before them.

Somehow, it made them equally proud, meshed with sorrow. It was no less for the Generals, as they all passed through, along the main pathway of polished crystal.

But this all then paled, as they all close towards a central domed structure, a single gold ring above it of afloat. This one, when entered, had a deep effect. Everything literally suffused into a midnight feel of air, as did sight of all light. This shifting as they delve deeper within. Rend's previous words, now come to bear, as the crystalline statues, turn much more platinum-golden in 'shine'. And to be sure, the number of surrounding groves, became more extravagant, and very large, given how few statues there were.

“Generals.”

Mist takes her turn. “So few can be of our apex. The duty can have a price. You now understand the consequences of why.”

“A goddess in a true war, would need to break with all she knows.”

Imladris nods. “That whole Doublet Code, goes so deep. It's speculation, as much as whim of one's own desires to why the Code was ever accepted, but most of it for the goddess side, is to preserve life. Taking life away, is a hard thing to do. Even Celestine was so targeted, as an utter last resort. How then, can a goddess easily take a life, without understanding the consequences either way.

And then apply all that, to the level of war. It's truly a humbling thought, when one conducts such affairs.”

Lind stops and drops her head. “It's so pointless, no matter how it all comes out.” ...and raises it. “All that movement and function. All that energy and resource. All of it, and it all never truly went anywhere today. To think of battle is such majesty, when all it does, is make a bunch of souls just clobber at each other, with few to remember the lessons after.”

Imladris nods and pulls his hands behind him. “That is why wars can be so tragic and wasteful. So few readily grasp consequences of that, the more one wants something to go away fast, the less it can happen at the scales we are teaching you now of. So few battles have a true conclusion, where a war can have one, only after so much suffering. And worse, it is too easy for a commander to look past that suffering, where a subjective soul is concerned. Glory, is a fleeting thing, in the very final end.

And those lessons, are eventually lost on further generations, that think they have better means, and knowledge better.”

Imladris then fingers his chin. “Of the few wars I have passed away from, alive to be thankful, to the now in the coming day, that made any real difference, comes that same galactic campaign. That lesson, a goal worth fighting for, for the true overall effect of such seems one few things, that 'can' make a war worthwhile.

Still, it's no comfort, when one sees it's aftereffects. I made sure to remind myself of that, every battle I ever led or participated in. It really can be all such a waste, if not of a true reason behind it all, in a terrible end.”

Hirund speaks, the lot having stopped. “A lesson we instilled. At least you are of courage to confront, what even we are hard pressed to face. But, even we have said faced equal trials, and it's lessons, what few there ever are. Such have made our character, and of our methods. Such are not easy to approach by most, goddess especially alike.”

Lind nods. “Hence from my experiences, come my turn at this?”

Imladris then walks past a bit. “But to be sure, there 'are' rewards. There 'are' lessons. And yes, in contradiction, there 'is' glory to be had. Blessing and ill in all things. A good blessing however, I sense, comes of this moment I suspect.”

Hirund nods. “As long as you remain a proper teacher, then we can entrust that her step into our Fold, is of merit. But to do so, is now a celebration, that becomes more intense, than that of a First Class unsealing ceremony.”

Lind gasps, as much as Imladris gulps, the latter now knowing why Lord Thor is not present. Rend then smiles softly. “It is a tender thing to witness, and not meant to be viewed, other than by one that is of a love's make. Oh, if only we of full Unsealing, had one such as ye, as a love. Such is indeed an intimate thing. Such chance by chance come.”

Imladris readily loses his nerve. “M... maybe ye should not have me around. I... ACK! Okay! Okay! I'll come! Just lose the Axe, Hirund!”

Hirund huffs, flipping her Axe to rear. (And her Sisters removing their hands of right, from their own lobes.) “Do respect this tradition, since it takes place in full view of one you should know dear now. This is, very serious a matter.”

Imladris blinks/gulps as Lind walks past now. “You indeed need more training.” ...this Imlade droop-sighs and follows the short distance remaining.

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

Sigrun was stiff, but not from fear. Before, a family ripped away, now back in her full sight. The towering Effidice reformed in a swirl of mere power, white and sparkling, into the Avatar form Sigrun still remembers. And then a Father and Mother, in the same chamber as the lost Daughter of Norn, just stand there. Silent. Uncertain. A daughter's emotions then froth forth, of a low, grinding tone.

“I should slap ye both.” ...her starry-goth mane, as brittle in frazzle, as her tone was as strained.

“: I would not fault thee. :”

Sigrun however refrained her tone further, as much a fear of being smote, as it was her self imposed mindset of respecting her own Master. It was something she decided soon before the Apprenticeship Ceremony, to adhere, since... “But to do so, I would feel would dishonor my Master. Still...

.....why?!?!”

Almighty didn't mince words. “: A Father, was remorseful of a child, held to the heart instead unto one that was held little enough, for Myself to trust in proper. :”

“A Mother, wanted that same child to be loved, not used as a Tool.”

“And I paid the price for Urd then?”

Frig didn't break her gaze, if held softly, not trying to keep a head higher than Sigrun's. Almighty just espoused. “: I was particularly fearful, of Urd's power. Heaven knew all too well, after the Truth of my affairs was known. I make no apologies, save for actions I caused mistake, that allowed an unforeseen demand of Hild's part. :”

Frig adds in concert... “I was the one that pressed this. I already had you and Belldandy, but then learned of Urd after Hild ensured I knew of Husband's.... affair. As simplistic as it sounds, I do not fault He, that created us both, in lieu of Voluspa, whom I suspect readily of a Love that could not be.”

Sigrun interprets. “So Father fooled around, with you and Hild.”

“: My love of them both, is still genuine. However, the make of Nidhog and Intracel, tells the rest where I am forced to lay my allegiance. Balancing both, is an Endless affair, that is my own curse. To explain further, will require breaking with understandings of familial love and bonding. Ones that have rigid code beyond my Creations, on below of the Planes.

But of that Love, I have had four daughters. But of the three before Skuld, came the conflict that Hild ensured, to keep my love for my Second Seat, a strained one. :”

Frig looks away generally at that. “I will admit, the times you show Hild the love, you give unto me, is a Jealous time. It is not easy even now to accept. Possibly that is why I saw Urd as my own, the same as why I never trusted my Doublet, especially after her Fall. I should have not let my emotions, cloud me, from Hild's own.”

Sigrun gulps, half expecting Hild to show up again. But the CEO knew better to force a situation that no longer was truly hers. Sigrun spoke from this point with... “So I was traded for Urd, with little choice in the matter.

I despise you both for it. I'm not ready yet to forgive that. Not for some time, at the very least.” ...and cocked her head away.

The room was silent for a moment. The Almighty laid the truth forth. “: She was adamant, that the price was unto Us, as it was unto you. Such was Hild's way, and of her own Hurt, after Urd was taken. To be sure, Urd's presence in Heaven, was as strained, as yours was. Neither childhood, was a proper one.

But the strategic decision, of allowing Urd to remain in the care of one, that had little formal regard of restraint, would have put Urd as a True threat to Heaven, and all it's makings. Not even the Doublet Code would have been enough to prevent Hild of a new Sin, as equal to the Fall. As much as Hild knows her love for Urd, she is already enough, through you, as 'you' know well, of ability to abuse, what is within her grasp.

And to be sure, I am no less guilty of treating Urd, as enemy, on more than one occasion, as much as my own Tool :”

Frig sighed, as Almighty professed. “: It is perhaps Absolute fortune, she has become of her current home. Her traits have mellowed past a make that even her true mother, cannot breach. But her mistakes of becoming the Lord of Terror, her severing of her halves, and even my use of her, that caused the initiation of the last Invasion, are examples of my extended distrust of Lady Urd, and a relationship, that equals the ones with Lady Hild. A removed, yet wanting one. The love is no less of this. And such, only now, can I consider her a true daughter, by her merits. :”

“Thank Keiichi Morisato for that.”

Sigrun smirks at Frig's comment, as Almighty sighs at the mere mention of 'that' name. “: One mortal. All of thine cometh after, because of only one such. And yet this is all true, the same for the fortunes of Urd, of this discussion. Such is why I allow the Contract to continue, despite ever lasting reservations, and even past chances to sever it. Perhaps then, you speak this is why our daughters are more matured, in a realm I should visit to understand better, if at last. If for once in an eternal while :”

“And why Urd is who she is now. And how Sigrun will learn as well.” Frig imparts. Sigrun nods, and has a Belldandy like streak hit her, hands held and all to her chest. “Mother is correct. Urd no longer is so impulsive to the allay of mortals and gods alike, and of her own power, as am I no longer as destructive, because of the same aspects. Belldandy is more whole through such of her experiences, as Skuld is more matured the same. I believe as we all fight for the future an Enemy would take from us all, even if my Master is of the primary means, that through a true victory, we all will become better as one, with the realms we are supposed to govern over.

And so do we should, as part of them, not as removed of them.”

Frig then leans a bit on Almighty's shoulder. “Indeed. You indeed should come Down, for a true official once, and enjoy as the rest of us have. And no optical illusions this time either.”

Almighty stares, then however remarks simply to 'that'. “: To do so, is the caveat of the Seven Closing Days, that will resolve all this. Speak I do to 'only' you both of this, to know it won't be said even of my Tool. To Approach down, is a Risk of Formal note. And so do, will I have to lain back, and not participate in the Final Affair to come. :”

Both goddesses suspect enough to gasp, as Almighty then informs. “: As such, will I Come anyway. Soon enough. All too soon.

And not when you would expect of Me. :”

Frig bemoans this.. “Melodramatic kook. Such a character, your Father.”

Sigrun just sighs. “I should laugh at that, but cannot yet.”

“: Again, I will not blame thee. :”

Sigrun nods, but then looks up and strides over close. Frig blinks, as much as Almighty moves zilch. The Norn then informs. “Blame thee of myself for this then. I will take my Master's word, over yours, for the coming time being. If I have to learn trust again, it'll be through him first, since he knows as much as I, of our ken from Hild.”

“I would expect no less.”

Almighty was glad Frigurina spoke for that one. Sigrun took it simply enough, though Almighty wasn't one to let another's word come over His own. Not of any form or ease. But the circumstances would be their own track, back to a proper acceptance. But an Almighty ego would have to attend to that, at some point.

After all, ego became of somewhere.

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

“Oh dear goddesses of them All.” ...ala a knight's tone.

Lind was meek feeling, in the center of the Moselium. They had long passed the all apparent, first True Generals of the Host, a good football field's worth of distance, of a total circumference, before even reaching a final circle that Lind saw to a cold shock. Of the statue in the center.

And the fact Imladris finally understood Frode's words. “You mean to honestly tell me, that Tyr and I, looked 'that' alike!? Am I so sure of myself anymore?!”

The statue, save for a few godly robe details, is the same of facade as Imlade. Even to the hair shown, the white and feathery that now was primary over the former blond of muss. (The coloration of the statue's version, seemed such a juxtaposition therefore.) A golden platinum make of crystal, stood simple and tall, if towering, over a platform of more golden crystal, easily a three story mortal home, by mass alone. (Hence how huge the statue was upon.) Given the light is gone all around, save for agleam beneath their feet, the aura glow from the monolith, is ever more haunting.

Imladris wanted to be a rock instead. Lind for her part, wanted to leave, as the surrounding field, was of white roses. Unlike the rest of the Moselium, it was all true and organic a version. Lind had to ask... “Tyr and these roses....”

“We are not sure.” Hirund says. “Only Thor truly knows. We do not press him of it. We only suspect from our predecessors, that they were a mark of portfolio, though it may have been fate that Imladris fell to Caceroth, on the same kind of a field.”

“Maybe it is all intertwined, after finally all.”

Lind grows afraid, but hears anyway from Imladris. “But.... to fall and return, is not the end point. It's just realization. My name is Imladris after all. My soul is of Lind. It's just shocking to see and all.”

Mist nods and looks about her fellow kin, Lind now included. “This I suspect of other things for us all, when the final page turns, and we read our parts after that. But this page is for Lind to participate, feel, and become. Imladris our godson, your's here as Trainer and Proctor, equals the Lover that is of witness, as we the Three Generals begin a welcome ceremony.

It's been over two hundred years since the last such ceremony, and we do not mind adding to a rare flock.”

“Agreed.” ...of two other Generals.

Lind feels a calm pride well up, as Imladris does, forgetting 'all' else, for this anew moment. Hirund then takes a spot amidst the white roses, her Sisters in stiff consort to either side. “Commander Lind, Pseudo-General in Training. Step forth.”

Lind's step is crisp, and seems impossible, of harming the roses beneath her. Imladris keeps his spot, more rigid now.

“Prior, we accepted the stance as making you one of our own. Now demonstration has been added. As such, we only see training in auspice, as the only need, such that can be done after Formalization of Status. We of the Section that keeps the keen edge, at the defense of all our brethren, as Sacred Duty, now see you as one of it's Apex.

To serve, has been an absolute duty. But that duty is as flexible as need and responsibility allows. But for you, it's been a journey as well. Few that serve into a journey, then can understand what our utmost demands are, as a General. In the finality, we cannot exist without Heaven, and as we stand for what we are, in what we are, we defend to the End, with our Sacred Duty.

Will you then join us, at the Apex, to the Sacred Duty, that then unseals your chains, and your power, to the final responsibility, that only the High can look past?”

Lind again didn't answer. With fresh knowledge added, the responsibilities were tripled, by awesome measure alone.

And again, she answered in only her own way.

“I will join, for the Duty and Joy that is serving Heaven, along with the Task that keeps my pause.

That pause, makes this answer difficult. An easy answer is not a General's way, moreso than it was for a Commander. But... I have had the taste, and I find preference, despite my pause. Plus, from whom added that I can relate from, gives the answer, an easier forum to speak from.

For both Blessing and Ill, I accept the Position as General to the War Section, and all it's aspects. I await your response.”

Hirund bows her head, and then bids Lind forth. Imladris watches, not prodded this time, but then winked at from Rend for the next... “Enjoy.” ...as all Three circle Lind, and chant. “Goddess First Class Lind, Valkyrie Gold Wings Command, Confirmation Unseal, Consent and Reveal!”

Such simple word just opened Lind to what she already knew, as all that enormous power, meant to help serve Heaven at the best of ability, now just dumped raw and uncontrolled for a moment, as the barriers that held them in check, were simply gone! She clutched at herself in a gasp of this power unchecked, that made her previous Provisional Unsealing ceremony, such a pale comparison!

And why Imladris was intimately present, such as how Lind's erotic composure became of all this. It all shot right through her, as her Power billowed throughout her being, her code, her network, and unto wholly her. Her bodily motions expounded this, to a point Imlade was having to control himself all the same! Seeing several unsealing ceremonies hadn't prepared him for 'this' version. Moreso, since his own Meld Link could feel the deep echoes of it.

And 'those' echoes were not meek.

The jumpsuit literally falling apart into a swirling haze of icy blue sparkles, unto pure bare skin, didn't 'help' much either.

But there was a more serious side to this. Mist echoes this out, with all tone the same. “The power you feel now, it takes a Will to control it. The Limiter now, is your own make, not of one made unto you. The Seals no longer exist, where the real power, is either yours to control, or let consume you. If the latter, you will not survive past this moment, by your own folly alone. If the former, then choose your new Limiter, as if your soul was it's song.”

And such became Imladris's unsaid place, as Lind 'chooses' that Limiter, as she immediately lunges over to him! His grasp is jittery for all the lack of clothing reasons, as Lind just cries out... “Take my Love for this reason, so I can keep us all safe! Have me of to have you, unto such is My Limiter. Please.”

Those open smiles, Imladris saw, and understood a Confession, as powerful as his own had been. He just melts into it. “Aye. No better a softer, than powerful reason there can be. Plus ye said please.” ...and from this, Lind simply had another focus, rather than worrying of her power. Old mental conditioning took care of the rest, as long as she had an emotional 'base'.

That was when, having been too focused on Lind's... expression.... into her new power, that he saw... “That tail of hair length, is new.”

Lind looks to either side, and then feel for a new, rather long length of hair, that seemed to mimic Peorth's hair length of norm, but this version that seemed to match the otherwise still nominal hairstyle of former and norm, in asymmetrical make. Lind then gasp-hiccuped a touch, feeling within... “I'm not feeling the raw power out of control, by any measure. I'm not overwhelmed? I....”

Hirund floats over to the all but seated on roses couple. (Imlade's cape a good cover for Lind's 'free' skinned form.) “You were already used to your powers. You just worried about the seal too much. But remember the true control, is from practice. Time and your Proctor will help you format that better.

But we should let the others know, so we can all begin to prepare. A Ball does await, after all.”

Lind smiled, but then looked over to her beloved. “Well, guess you have to really take orders from me now.”

Imladris sighs... “And the difference is... what, persay?”

Lind's first lesson in format control, came from the following punch, that Imladris quickly vanished from sight from. Lind looks at her own zilch bruised hand, remarking. “Oh my.”

Hirund and Rend just whistle at the results, as Mist giggles over. “You'll get used to it.”

----

Yaltros looks down, from the hole that just got gouged into a structure of Tyr spaceport. “Um... ye okay mortal?”

“..................ow.”

Yaltros then looked just as keenly, as Thor in the Chamber of Valor, at that same moment, was looking through a 'long' set of bodily shaped holes, that told a certain path, forcibly made. Thor just smirks of his part. “Number four will be a fun story to read and witness.”

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

The first signals were reaching the iso-crystal amplification repeater-posts, the first only a .09 parsec sector away. Within hours, an emergency session of the Galactic Council would be called, to hear the short version, of the terror that befell so many hundreds of thousands of mere innocents, that had only dreams of a new colony to look forward to.

Now, no longer. The same of their screams, young and old of many an age and span, the same of their surprised escort that had not the power to prevent this scalding of their existence. Their prayers in the name of one long since lost of their presence, not heard all the same, as plasma fire and fusion torpedoes did their wok mercilessly.

The first, well left behind now, as the Marian Assault Fleet Group made their terrorizing path, towards a star system, of one sparsely populated world, before a Trade Route, and then...

....fate.

All to Her Will....

All of it.

(End Act VII-B, Vol. II)