ragnarok usurped

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Copyright 2011 Please distribute freely!

Ragnarok

Usurped

Written by Carole Plaine

DEDICATED TO

Valkyr

Thadeus

Gankz

ExDragon

Unperceivable

Kyoko

Marelle but mostly to Vash, who made me finish it.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter One ................................................................................................................................................................................. 1Chapter two ................................................................................................................................................................................. 6Chapter Three .......................................................................................................................................................................... 11Chapter Four ............................................................................................................................................................................ 18Chapter Five ............................................................................................................................................................................. 27Chapter Six ................................................................................................................................................................................ 35Chapter Seven .......................................................................................................................................................................... 43Chapter Eight............................................................................................................................................................................ 49Chapter Nine ............................................................................................................................................................................. 54Chapter Ten .............................................................................................................................................................................. 61Chapter Eleven ........................................................................................................................................................................ 69Chapter Twelve ....................................................................................................................................................................... 74Chapter Thirteen .................................................................................................................................................................... 79Chapter Fourteen ................................................................................................................................................................... 87Chapter Fifteen ........................................................................................................................................................................ 90Chapter Sixteen ....................................................................................................................................................................... 92Chapter Seventeen ................................................................................................................................................................. 95Chapter Eighteen .................................................................................................................................................................... 98Chapter Nineteen ................................................................................................................................................................. 100Chapter Twenty .................................................................................................................................................................... 104Chapter Twenty One ........................................................................................................................................................... 107Chapter Twenty Two .......................................................................................................................................................... 109Chapter Twenty Three ....................................................................................................................................................... 114Epilogue .................................................................................................................................................................................. 116


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CHAPTER ONE

The high wizard sat in the grubby little pub in the oasis town of Fes, sipping his watered-down

drink unenthusiastically. He certainly wasnt here for the drinks, which were overpriced, or theatmosphere, which was dank and dirty. The wizard didnt have any friends here either, as the usualpatrons of this establishment were thieves or assassins. No, he was here for one reason and onereason only.

The barkeeper walked around the pub, lowering the oil lamps, until only a small area with a stagewas brightly lit. In the darkness, near the stage, a drumbeat started. Slowly, but steadily, the beatincreased until it was the rhythm of a mans heartbeat. Then she stepped onto the stage.

How many nights had he watched her dance? He had lost count. He still held his forgotten drink inhis hand, but his attention was solely for the girl on the stage.

The vlva was draped in silks of gold, which hid her body but not the curves beneath. Her long redhair was loose around her face and hid her small smile from the rest of the patrons; only the wizardcould see it. At a particular beat, she flung her arms out from her sides, and her head back, revealingher body, clad only in wisps of red silk. The golden silks flowed like wings behind her as shestrutted to the drum beat, and the catcalls of the drunken patrons.

Her dance was an invitation none were willing to accept. It was a taunt, a dare. Her hips swayed tothe beat of the drum, and her feet clapped a counterpoint to that beat. She swayed her torsodownwards and her hair swept across the stage. As she righted herself, her red hair glowed in thelamplight like a halo around her face.

The vlva proudly stepped down the stage onto the main floor of the pub. Her eyes locked onto the

wizards eyes, and she held him there, mesmerized. As she danced closer to him, he could feel thebeads of sweat break out on his forehead. He was master of mystical energies, yet this girl held himin her power. He was now part of her dance. Closer she came to him. Neither of them noticed as hisdrink fell from his fingers and spilled across the grimy table. She took the wizard by the hand andpulled him out of his chair. Her delicate fingers traced along his grizzled cheek, and then took holdof the long bronze braid he wore in his hair. She used the braid to turn his head as she dancedaround him, so he would continue watching her (as though he had any other choice!) She let go ofhis hair to glide in behind him, around him, and her silks brushed against his rough skin. Althoughshe was no longer touching him, the heat of her body seared him through his robes.

Soon, she was before him again, and with a wink and the toss of her hip, she left him to go back tothe stage and dance her finale. The wizards legs felt like water, and he dropped heavily back into

his chair.

The vlva swayed her hips and shimmied her breasts to the ever increasing tempo of the drums. Asthe beat hit a fevered pitch, she whirled like a sand-dervish. Her hair and silks swung around her ina frenzy of color, until the drum beat ended and she dropped to her knees on the stage and allowedthem to fall around her body and drape her in privacy. Thats when the girl smiled again, this timeonly to herself. She wondered how long it would take the wizard to find the note she had left in thepocket of his robes.


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Vakr the high wizard stumbled home through the dusty streets of Fes. After the vlva had exited thestage he had several more drinks to calm the beating of his heart. No matter how watered-down thedrinks, eventually the alcohol soaked into his brain. Vakr knew that when sober, he was more thana match for any cutpurse that might think him an easy mark. However, when he was this besotted

he was in danger of going home much poorer than he intended. Fortunately, the wizards apartmentwasnt that far from the tavern, and Vakr made it home withoutincident.

He lurched up the stairs, and fumbled his key into the lock of his apartment. Vakr leaned against thedoorframe and shoved the door open. He let himself fall into the apartment and kicked the doorshut behind him. Again, he worked the key in the lock, shutting himself in for the night.

Vakr sat heavily onto his sturdy work chair, and heard the crackle of parchment. Confused, hepatted his pocket. He didnt remember having any paper there before. He pulled out a folded sheetof pale gold parchment and read:

The Broken Arrow, Sigvatr

Be there 9 in the evening.

H

The handwriting was smooth and unhurried, and the crackling parchment was lightly perfumedwith the vlvas scent. Sigvatr? What was there for him? And what would SHE want with him?

Vakr shrugged off the mantle that marked his rank as a high wizard of the Guild. He looked aroundhis small apartment and thought to himself how the raise in rank didnt seem to raise his pay much.Still the same shabby place, same old furniture, same boring days studying mystical arts...

He slammed his fist down on his parchment-covered table and scraps of notes flew everywhere.

Well, he would go, by the gods! Who knew what the girl wanted, but at least it would be somethingnew! He tossed his robe of office over the back of his chair and blew out the candle on the table.Vakr lay down on his straw-ticked bed and let thoughts of secret notes, vlvas and danger lull himto sleep.

The dawn broke, drilling brilliant sunlight through Vakrs tightly shut eyelids. Oh, gods, he did havetoo much to drink the night before! Vakr carefully sat up, but kept his eyes shut. Maybe the spinningfeeling would go away if he just sat still a moment. Vakrs eyes flew open and he groaned in painand slammed them shut again. He had just remembered the note from the vlva. He had alreadydecided to go to the meeting, but wanted a bit of information before he left Fes. Vakr gathered uphis travelling clothes and a few necessities and threw them unceremoniously into his travel pack.The wizard looked longingly at his books, but decided he didnt want to carry them all. There wasno way to choose only one or two, so he would leave them in the apartment for now. His rent waspaid up, and Vakr hoped his reputation as a high wizard would keep the landlord from pokingaround while he was gone. The common people had strange ideas about the powers of wizards, andwizards rarely bothered to educate non-initiates about their talents. When commoners feared awizards power, a wizard didnt have to use that power as often.

Sigvatr was a haven for archers and hunters, situated within a dense forest hundreds of leaguesfrom the arid desert that cradled the oasis of Fes. Vakr would travel to Sigvatr via the svor teleport


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network. svors were a type of automaton, each modeled after a beautiful woman, a wondrousmeld of magic and technology. The corporation that produced the svors kept their manufacture aclosely guarded secret. The svors could be found in most cities, where they shared local news andprovided the teleports that made travel around Midgard safe and quick, but not necessarily

inexpensive. Only large shipments still needed to travel the roads by cart pulled by massive birdscalled peminos. The birds were strong and could be vicious fighters if trained properly. Merchantspaid highly for protection for the perilous journeys from city to city, and charged outrageous pricesfor their goods accordingly. It was a toss-up whether it was more expensive to teleport directly tothe areas of origin to shop, or simply pay the merchants asking prices.

A priest could create a portal for Vakr as well, but the wizard didnt feel like taking a dose of religionwith his travel, nor did he want to donate his hard-earned cash to a church full of religious zealots.Since getting to Sigvatr would take no time to speak of, Vakr decided to spend the day gathering abit more information about the vlva who had summoned him.

Nobody was at the pub at this hour of the morning. Even the barkeeper hadnt dragged his sorry

self out of bed yet. He must know the girl he had hired to dance. Vakr hammered on the dusty doorto the barkeeps living quarters behind the tavern.

Suddenly, the door bounced open and the fat, nearly-naked bartender stood framed within it.WHAT? he bellowed. Vakr drew himself up to full height, displaying his robes of office and mantleof rank, raised one eyebrow and said nothing. The barkeep immediately deflated. Sorry Sire, Ithought it was one of the drunks from last night, looking for another ale. What can I do to help you?

The girl who dances for you, the one from last night. Who is she? Vakr asked.

Hrefna? What do you want with her? Shes just a street-whore. She dances for next to nothing, toadvertise her other trade.

She seems to be a fairly fine vlva for a street-whore, Vakr said contemplatively. The barkeeperprobably couldnt sense the mystical energies the girl raised while she danced, the wizard mused.Where did you meet her?

I told you Sire, on the street, the barkeep answered. All I really know is her name.

Fine then, said Vakr, disgusted. He tossed a couple of coins to the barkeep and turned away. Vakrdoubted the barkeepers story. If Hrefna was merely an exotic dancer, the tale would have beenbelievable. Vakr knew a true vlva when he saw one; a young woman trained as a child to createmagic from dance. The stage had practically glowed with mystical energies while she danced. Still,he had to follow the trail of clues. Maybe the Thieves Guild would have more answers. If she was

truly a street-whore, she was one of theirs.

Vakr followed winding alleyways through the back streets of Fes. Already the sun was high and theheat was beating down on the wizard mercilessly. Vakr was pleased that the entrance to theThieves Guild was down these somewhat cooler, shadowy alleys. He knew he was being watchedand possibly marked as prey, but as he was wearing his mantle of office, the cutpurses wouldntapproach him. He was on official guild business, or so they would believe.


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The door to the Guild office was unmarked and resembled any other back alley door. It couldpossibly be connected to a shop or inn on the main street. Vakr tapped out a complex pattern on thedoor, and a voice from inside challenged him. Who knocks?

Vakr, High Wizard of the Guild of Wizards, chapter representative of Fes! he answered.

Enter, the voice replied. When Vakr opened the door, there was nobody to be seen. The wizardshrugged, knowing the guard was somewhere in the shadows and walked down the hallwaytowards the Guild Mistresss office. He tried not to let his shoulder blades twitch, as Vakr knew onewrong move would mean a knife planted between them. He was soon at the doorway to theMistress of the Guild of Thieves.

Kolgrma the Guild Mistress leaned back in her chair and let her black booted heels thump onto herdesk. She crossed her legs, revealing a tantalizing bit of bare thigh beneath her short shirt andshifted the toothpick in her mouth from one side to the other. She took a long look at the highwizard standing in front of her.

Spill it, Vakr, she finally said. I know this isnt official business. I would have heard from yourhead chapter.

Vakr sighed, grabbed a chair from the wall and dragged it over to the far side of Kolgrmas desk. Hetried valiantly not to look at the long legs she presented him. Im trying to find some informationon a girl named Hrefna. She dances at the Spilled Urn. The barkeeper says shes a whore.

Hrefna, eh? the Master Thief asked. I dont recognize the name. MAYA! Kolgrma yelled over hershoulder to a woman in the room behind the desk. Do we have a girl named Hrefna working thestreets near the Spilled Urn?

Not one of my girls, a sultry voice answered. Freelancer? Should we put the squeeze on her?

What does this Hrefna look like? asked Kolgrma, turning back to the wizard. She pulled a long,thin stiletto out of a hidden sheath in her boot and cleaned the grit from under her fingernailsnonchalantly.

I wont have you harm her, whether youre Guild Mistress or not, Kolgrma, warned Vakr.

Kolgrma grinned widely and spread her arms out in mock surrender. Harm her? Never! Shes acommodity! Why would I damage someone who could earn me money?

Imbeginning to think this girl is no whore at all. I think shes something very different, Vakr saidto himself under his breath.

Well, if you see her again, tell her she needs to speak to Maya before plying her trade in Fes,Kolgrma informed the wizard. You dont want her to get hurt, and thats the safest move for her tomake.

Vakr stood, bowed stiffly to the Master Thief and made his way out of the Guild offices. The streetsof Fes were dusty as usual and wind was whipping the sand and grit up into miniature dust-devils.They reminded Vakr of the Hrefna. He shook his head to clear his thoughts. The girl was after


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something, and she wasnt who she seemed. Vakr wasnt ready to trust the vlva yet, but he waswilling to hear what she wanted to tell him.


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CHAPTER TWO

Day and night, the svor automaton stood by the side of the main plaza of Fes, near the citysextravagant fountain. The device was shaped like a lovely lady wearing a perky, revealing uniform.

For all intents, she looked alive with smooth, flawless skin and flowing hair. Her arms, fingers, andneck were articulated, so she could turn to face an approaching customer and hold out her hand forpayment. When the small bars of gold were placed in her hand, an internal scale weighed them, andthe automaton would place the money in the pocket of her apron. The coins would slide into theinternal safe of the device. The svor automaton would thank the client and give a choice of cities.Once the client spoke the name of the city he wanted to visit, a moment would pass, then ashimmering portal would appear. The traveler would then be warped instantly to his city of choice.First-time users of the svor system usually found the trip disorienting, especially when leaving anarid, hot city like Fes, and arriving in the cool green shade of a city like Sigvatr.

Vakr was quite used to the sensation of teleportation. Nonetheless, he shivered in the sudden coolof the forest town. The wizard cast his glance around to orient himself. As usual, he had arrivedbeside another automaton, so he could find his way back easily when he was ready to return home.The streets of Sigvatr were merely cart-tracks ground into the mossy undergrowth. Huge, old-growth trees created a cathedral ceiling over the entire town. The archers and hunters who madeSigvatr their home chose to live with the forest, rather than pull it down around them to build theirtown.

The Broken Arrow Inn was a lodge built from massive logs, neatly notched to fit tightly together.The sign over the door had no lettering, just a brightly painted picture of an arrow, snapped in half.Vakr opened the massive, oaken door to the inn and stepped inside. Mounted trophies hung on thewall, staring blankly at the patrons drinking below them. A huge rack of antlers hung over the door.When Vakr strode through the door, he didnt see Hrefna at any of the tables. He cast his glance

around the room, but saw only archers and a couple of hunters with their falcons roosting restlesslyon the backs of their chairs.

A pretty barmaid approached Vakr and said, Excuse me Sire? I believe your party is in the privateroom, in the back.

Startled, Vakr thanked the girl and went towards the back of the lodge. He pulled open the slidingdoors. Inside he saw a clown.

The clown was dressed in ragged, multi-coloured robes, and he had a wide-brimmed hat pulleddown over his eyes. In his hand he held a crystal ball, which he spun on his fingertips, and juggledover his hand in smooth movements. His free hand tapped a lively rhythm on the wooden tabletop,

and he seemed to be humming to himself.

Im sorry, started Vakr, I must be in the wrong room...

The clown sat back and tipped his hat back on his head to show his face. No, youre in the rightplace Vakr. How have you been?

Tyrfingr? Freyas tits! What are you doing here? I thought you were playing the skald down inStiklestad? Vakr replied, astonished. A skald was a professional singer and storyteller. Quite often,


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skalds would travel from town to town, bringing political gossip from afar. A true skald could alsocreate living energy from song and stories, and perform feats of magic, somewhat like a wizard.

The clown stood up and bowed flamboyantly. I am no longer Tyrfingr, but Apple the Clown,performer extraordinaire! I can amuse and amaze you! He pulled several brightly coloured clothballs out of his pocket and juggled them expertly. I can confound and confuse! Miraculously, theballs disappeared, seemingly while in flight. And I still sing and play on occasion, he admitted,sitting back down.

Vakr sat down abruptly in one of the heavy, wooden chairs. Thats an interesting change ofprofession, he replied. But you didnt answer my question. What are you doing here?

I invited you here! Tyrfingr replied. Didnt you get my note?

I certainly gave it to him, said a woman as she walked through a door in the back of the room. Shewas wrapped in a heavy cloak, but Vakr recognized her walk.

Hrefna! he said, I didnt recognize you...

With my clothes on? Hrefna asked sarcastically. She shrugged off the cloak and hung it on a hookon the wall. She was wearing archers garb and a fine longbow was slung across her body. She worea quiver of arrows at her hip. Her red hair was tied in a long ponytail that streamed down her back.

You seem to be a woman of many talents, Vakr observed as the woman sat at the table with thetwo men.

Oh, more than you know, she replied to him, winking seductively.

Vakr reluctantly turned back to Tyrfingr and asked, So why all the sneaking around? Why do you

want me here?

Well, drawled Tyrfingr, The LAST time I asked you along on an adventure you were too busy withstudying, and you had a thousand excuses not to come along. Thats why THIS time, I made sure thebait in the trap was sweeter. He winked at Hrefna, who rolled her eyes at him.

Vakr turned to Hrefna and accused, So youre not really a vlva? Tyrfingr sent you along just tolure me into some stupid scheme of his?

Oh, Im a vlva, Hrefna answered. Do you think just any girl could dance like that? But why ELSEwould I be dancing in a dusty hole like Fes, if not to pique your interest enough to follow the note?

Vakr hated being led around by the nose, but he was intrigued enough to want to know more. Sothe second part of my question: Why do you want me here?

Tyrfingr looked at Vakr very seriously, all trace of humor gone from his face. To save the world,Vakr. To save the world.

Vakr answered with silence. Finally he replied, I KNEW you were going to say that.

Tyrfingr laughed, long and hard, and even Hrefna grinned.


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So the three of us are out to save the world, are we? Vakr asked. He grabbed a pitcher ofdark alefrom the table and filled himself a mug of the frothy brew.

Actually, there are five of us, Hrefna answered. The other two are in the courtyard... discussingphilosophy.

Thats a nice way to put it, muttered Tyrfingr.

Suddenly, the back door slammed open and a tall man in the robes of a high priest stormed into theroom. His dark, piercing eyes scanned the three at the table, stopping briefly on Vakr. His thickeyebrows furrowed and he spat out, FIRST you saddle me with that enigmatic idiot out there, NOWyou involve me with a practitioner of the Dark Arts? I swear Tyrfingr, I will walk away from all thisright now...

Hrefna held up a delicate hand and said mildly, Shut up Drengr, Your Eminence. You know we needhis skills.

Drengr stood with his mouth half open, staring at the girl who dared interrupt him, and so rudely.

I should have known Id receive such flippancy from the likes of YOU, he muttered finally. Hrefnajust smiled saucily at the high priest until he was forced to concede and look away.

The back door opened again, and smaller, bald man glided in. He wore the robes of a monk. Henodded calmly to Drengr, who just frowned and looked away, then smiled in greeting to Vakr.

Tyrfingr introduced the two last members of their little band. Vakr, this is high priest Drengr, onloan to us from the Church of Bjrk. The brother here is Galmann, a monk ofOdins Order.

I think I need a little bit more information on exactly how were going to save the world now,

Tyrfingr, Vakr replied. What are we saving the world from?

Drengr raised his eyebrows and answered for Tyrfingr. We are oath-sworn to stop Ragnarok, hestated flatly.

Vakr had just been taking a swallow of ale when Drengr made his outrageous statement. He spat itout across the table and started to laugh until he thought he was going to choke.

Take a breath Vakr, hes serious, warned Tyrfingr.

The high priest looked absolutely furious at Vakrs hilarity. I am to assume then, that you think thatRagnarok is not possible?

Im a perpetual student, Your Eminence, Vakr replied, wiping his eyes. Ive studied magic, Ivestudied science, history and lore. And there is utterly NO evidence that your gods even exist, muchless plan to wage war on some mythical Giants. And even if they do, Ragnarok is supposed todestroy VALHALLA, not Middle Earth, not Midgard.

Drengr took a deep breath and turned away from the wizard to collect himself.


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Galmann the Monk put a hand on the high priests shoulder and murmured, Very good brother, letyourself find peace.Drengr angrily pushed the monks hand away.

Brother Galmann addressed Vakr. Wizard, you find it difficult to believe that the gods exist, yet youplay with powers that no mere human could possibly develop without the aid of those very gods.You control earth, air, fire and water, yet you think those powers come from within YOU? Oh, thegods are real my friend, and their fight is our fight. If the Giants destroy Valhalla, why would theynot send their monsters here to destroy us as well, the creations of those gods? Galmann smiledpeacefully, then sat at the table with the rest of the group.

Monsters... scoffed Vakr.

Tyrfingr held up a warning hand. Dont laugh Vakr. Itsalready beginning. Tell him Hrefna.

You dont get out in the real world much, do you Vakr? she observed. The wildlife of our world is... changing. Many young archers are finding creatures in the woods that no one has ever seenbefore.

Well, started Vakr, Im sure that a bunch of scared kids might think a wolf was a monster.

Im not talking about wolves, Hrefna interrupted him. Im talking about plants that are coming tolife and attacking without provocation. Trees that walk, mushrooms that spit poisonous spores,immense insects that are utterly deadly...

Vakr shoved his chair back and stood up abruptly. I wont listen to any more. The whole idea is soutterly STUPID. You had your laugh at my expense. Im going back to Fes.

Hrefna stood as well and came around the heavy wooden table to Vakr. She put a hand on his wristand held him gently. Home to what, Vakr? Theres nothing there for you. Just more books and

meaningless experiments the Wizards Guild sets on you. Join us and see. Believe itor dont, butVakr... She looked him in the eyes and trapped him there again. Its real. We need you. Please.

Vakr took hold of Hrefnas hand and removed it from his wrist. He looked away from her with somedifficulty and said, Ill go. If only to be the voice of reason. You are all crazy, you know.

Tyrfingr laughed and stood up. You wont hear ME arguing that point. Come on everyone, lets getgeared up and head out.

The band of adventurers had stashed their supplies in a common sleeping area in the inn. Althoughthey could travel by svor network to the major cities, the clues they were after would be in farmore remote locations. They had backpacks, rucksacks, sleeping rolls and changes of clothes.

Tyrfingr surprised Vakr with a gift.

I got it down in Kilwa. Most of the people there dont speak our language, but I managed tocommunicate with the chief and tell him about our journey. He asked if we had a shaman; I assumedhe meant wizard, and told him we did. So he gave this to me for you to use. It was a long, gnarledstaff, grey with age and polished with the sweat of the hands of many a magic user. When Vakr tookthe staff in his hand, he felt the power inside it.


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CHAPTER THREE

Tyrfingr hired a pemino-drawn coach to take them to the first stop in their journey. A stoic hunterdrove the team. He barely talked to the travelers, simply grunting agreement when needed. Walking

would have added days to their trip and exhausted the group. The roads through the forest werepathetic, and the coachs bench seats were uncomfortable. The travelers had some small comfort inthe fact that the coach was covered and kept the weather off of them.

Drengr and Galmann sat on one bench across from Tyrfingr and Vakr. Hrefna had comfortablysqueezed herself between the skald and the wizard. Vakr found her proximity very distracting.

The companions chatted during the bone-jarring ride through the forest to distract themselvesfrom their discomfort.

Galmann asked the wizard, Where did you meet Tyrfingr? You obviously know each other fromsomewhere.

Tyrfingr, being the professional storyteller, told the tale. Vakr interjected with his view of some ofthe events occasionally.

Its really our mothers fault, Tyrfingr began. They thought it would be good for us to get to knoweach other. Really, I think they just wanted us out from underfoot, and Vakr and I were exceedinglygood at entertaining each other.

How long have you known each other? Hrefna asked, amused.

Oh, I dont know, since we were four or five? This was back when we both lived in Bjrk. Wemanaged to get into so much trouble together!

Vakr chuckled, reminiscing. Remember the time we stole those apples?

Tyrfingr laughed his booming laugh. Oh, I remember. We snatched a few apples off that cart, andthe vendor would never have noticed if the whole stock hadnt fallen and gone rolling out in thestreet

Which kept his attention long enough for us to RUN Vakr was laughing out loud .

Oh we were sure we were going to get our asses tanned, Tyrfingr continued. We ran until wecouldnt breathe and wound up in a part of the city we didnt know, near the gates. We were scared,dirty and exhausted. We huddled behind some old building, with our booty of four whole apples,and Vakr here looks at me all upset and said Does this mean were gonna grow up to be THIEVES?

Even Father Drengr was smiling by now, listening to the story.

So I told him, Well, if it does mean were going to grow up to be thieves we arent going to bevery GOOD thieves!

They were the best tasting apples I ever ate, Vakr finished with a grin.


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Well I, for one, am glad you gave up your life of crime, Brother Galmann told the two. We wouldbe penniless by now, bailing the two of you out of jail.

So how did you part ways and follow such different paths? asked the Drengr. Its rare to see awizard and a skald together.

Oh, the way it always works, Tyrfingr smiled sadly. It had to do with a woman.

I was sure she was the one, Vakr said softly, closing his eyes to remember her face. Tyrfingr and Iwere going to go to Sigvatr together to study archery we HAD decided thieving wasnt for us. Butthere was this girl who lived on our street. Blonde hair, eyes like the deepest, bluest night sky

Hey, hold on a second, IM the skald here, Im supposed to be the one who gets all poetic overwomen, teased Tyrfingr. The long and the short of it was that this girl decided she was going tothe Mage Academy in Oslo, and nothing I could do would persuade this love-sick pup here to staywith me. He followed her, panting, to Oslo. He found his calling too, it seems. I doubt hed ever makeit as a skald. Im fairly sure hes utterly tone-deaf.

I can sing for my supper if I have to, Vakr replied huffily.

Well, you better start singing, Hrefna told him. Its getting late and its time to make camp.

So while the travelers and their driver made camp that evening, Vakr taught them all a bawdy songhe learned in Oslo about a Mage, a milkmaid and her goat. By the end of supper, even the priest andthe monk were joining in the chorus.

Galmann told his story after supper while they sat around the fire. He had been involved with thechurch for as long as he could remember. His parents had sent him to be trained by the monkswhen he was very young. They didnt send him away because they couldnt afford to keep him, like

many poor families did. His parents sent him to the monastery because they were afraid of him.

Brother Galmann explained that at the age of three, he had permanently crippled a boy he had beenplaying with because the boy refused to share a toy that Galmann had wanted. He had broken thechilds leg so badly that it never healed properly and the boy grew up relying on two canes to walk.The Brother didnt look angry, happy or even remorseful as he told this tale. He told the story like itwas about someone else. In a way, it was. Brother Galmann remembered nothing about thatincident, or any of the others that followed it.

I only know that story, he explained, because one of the Brothers told it to me. There wererumors that I killed someone before I was five, but nobody has ever proven or disproven it.

Is it berserker rage? Hrefna asked quietly.

Brother Galmann shrugged. It could be, and ifmy parents had sent me to learn with the Order ofKnights, I would be a very different person than I am today.

Tyrfingr looked at Galmann seriously. What did they teach you at the monastery? he asked. Youseem to be so in control of yourself.

They taught me to laugh, Galmann smiled.


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Father Drengr looked suitably horrified. The Mother Church is no laughing matter!

Father, you followed a different path of the Church than I did. You see the seriousness of Ragnarokapproaching. You know Odin as the One-Eyed God. I know him as the All-Father. I also know thatLoki, the Eternal Trickster is his blood brother. If that isnt funny, then nothing is.

The high priest looked like he wanted to say more, but held his tongue.

Did you lose the battle-rage then? asked Vakr.

Galmann looked at him in surprise. Oh no, not at all. I was simply taught to channel it. Monks aretaught martial arts and the way of the fist. But we try to mediate FIRST. When the time fornegotiation is over, then sometimes you have to convince people by knocking their heads together!

Tyrfingr laughed his infectious laugh. I think perhaps youd better start planning on doing somehead-knocking then, Brother. Because I really dont know how well negotiations with the Giants willgo!

Drengr didnt talk about himself. He listened to the others stories, and occasionally added in a bit ofinformation on where they were headed currently. He gave everyone the impression he washolding himself aloof from them. However, Tyrfingr had a bit of background on the high priestwhich he shared in hushed whispers with the others.

I know he seems like a religious zealot, but if theres anyone in Midgard that deserves to be a littlecrazed about the gods, its him, Tyrfingr started. See, hes MET the One-Eyed God.

Hrefna looked at the skald with a look of disbelief on her face. Vakr openly laughed. BrotherGalmann just nodded in agreement. Its true, he added. My whole Order knows the story.

Tyrfingr deferred to the Monk who took up the tale. Drengr was young, in his teens. At the time, Idont believe he had any interest in the Church. He wanted to be a great Knight of the Realm. He wasproud and dangerous.

He was in the forest near a small town named Eker, training and hunting when he came across anold man sitting near the edge of the road. The man was wearing rags and a battered wide-brimmedhat. He also had an eye patch over one eye. Something drew the young man to the old beggar, andbefore young Drengr could even greet him, the old man spoke, it is said, directly into his heart.

Put down your sword, my son, Odin said to the boy. You are to be my general in the upcomingfight. Your weapon will have no use there. Your words and your conviction will be the only swordyou need.

Well, Drengr stood there as if stunned, and dropped his sword. The man vanished before his eyes.When the boy finally made it home, it was days before he could speak. He had truly been touched bya god. He informed his parents he was going to Bjrk to join the Church. They begged him not toleave, but he couldnt be persuaded to stay.

When he arrived at Bjrk and presented himself before the priests, they could all see that he wasgod-touched. They asked him his name and he told them he was Drengr. He had renounced his


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earlier life and given himself totally to the Church. He studied with fervor and rose in the ranks ofthe Church quickly.

A few scant months ago, while on a mission to preach to some outlying towns, Drengr met thesame beggar man on the road. This time, Odin had more frightening news to tell him. He told FatherDrengr that Ragnarok was fast approaching and it was time for the high priest to make ready hisarmy. The god told the priest he had to find signs of the coming war to prove it was truly happening,because although the high priest believed, few others could pull themselves away from theireveryday lives to see the truth. He also told Drengr that Valhalla would surely fall, but the godswanted Midgard to survive the turmoil.

So you see, this is the reason the high priest is so zealous. He KNOWS the gods are real. And heknows, from their own mouths, that they expect to die very soon. And it is tearing him to pieces toknow that he cannot save them. So Drengr has been going to every town he can possibly conceive ofhaving old tomes and clues in hopes of postponing Ragnarok, and saving his beloved gods. AsWELL, he has been trying to prove that Ragnarok is indeed coming. Without the help of the people

of Midgard, we will also be destroyed.

Rain drummed on the roof of the carriage, as the two strong peminos hauled it through the thickmud on the road. The driver had his cloak pulled tight around him, and his companion falconperched on the backrest of the drivers seat, looking wretched and dejected.

The travelers had been playing a word-game, but had grown bored with it. So whats your storyHrefna? asked Vakr. How did you get involved with all this?

Hrefna grinned at him. No idea! she said.

What do you mean, No idea? he cajoled. We all told you OUR stories

No, Im serious, she insisted. I have no idea. Tyrfingr there found me in the middle of Sigvatrwoods one day. I had a serious head-wound and was unconscious. I dont remember anything atall.

Really? Vakr turned and asked Tyrfingr.

On my honor, Tyrfingr replied, putting a hand over his heart theatrically. I was out for a stroll,looking for some musical inspiration, and here was this pretty girl wearing a beautiful white gownwhich is spattered in blood. Her hairs all done up like she was at some party, but it was all mattedand she was bleeding everywhere. So of course, I take her back to Sigvatr and have the priests lookat her. They did some healing, and took care of her, but she couldntremember a damned thingexcept her own name.

How long ago was this? Vakr asked.

Hrefna shrugged. About two months before I first started dancing for you in Fes.

WHAT? Vakr said, shocked. You learned to dance like that in two months?


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Well, no, Tyrfingr broke in. Thats the really funny part. She just took dancing like shed alwaysdone it. The priests figure she probably was a vlva before her accident and her body rememberswhat her mind doesnt.

But, said Hrefna, with an air of mystery in her voice, No one at Sigvatr knew me. Tyrfingr and Iwent to Stiklestad as well, and the story was the same. None of the instructors, not even the Matronof Vlvas, recognized me. Im not in any of the student log books atthe Academy. Im nobody.

But surely theres someone, somewhere, looking for you? asked Vakr, concerned.

If there is, the girl replied, We havent met him yet. The priesthood sent messages concerning me,and nobody had heard of a missing red-headed vlva. Every city in Midgard was alerted. Nobodyever came for me. Her eyes glittered for a second with what looked like tears, but she blinkedquickly, and looked at Tyrfingr. She smiled. This big ape adopted me and has been keeping mewith him ever since. I love to dance with his music. When he asked me to recruit you in Fes, Icouldnt say no.

And you looked hilarious that last night, said Tyrfingr, standing there with your jaw on the floorand randy enough for the whole bar to see.

How would YOU know? muttered Vakr.

Who do you think was playing the drum? Tyrfingr replied, grinning.

Late that afternoon, the rain had blown over and the ground dried quickly in the bright sunshine.The drivers falcon looked far more comfortable, at the very least. The travelers had set up camp ina cozy clearing, and had eaten some fresh rabbit that Hrefna had brought down with her arrows.Maybe its time to give me a little more information on where were going and what exactly weresupposed to be up against, Vakr said, later that evening. The campfire was burning brightly, and

the night was cool and pleasant. Everyone had eaten their fill, but nobody was quite ready to turn inyet.

Would either of you men of the Church like to tell the story? Tyrfingr asked.

You tell it Tyrfingr, Galmann said. Youre the wordsmith. Im sure if you get the details wrong, thegood Father or I can correct you.

Ill do my best, replied Tyrfingr. In the beginning of all there is, there were no nine worlds, onlyNiflheim, which was a world of ice, and Muspelheim, a world of fire. When the heat of Muspelheimwarmed Niflheim, the Frost Giant Ymir and the great cow Audhumla were created.

The stories say that from Ymirs body sprang the Jotun, the Giants. Audhumla created the first God,Buri, by licking the salty stones of Niflheim until he sprang fully from the ice. Buri was the father ofthe first gods, Odin, Vili and Ve.

While the gods grew to adulthood, Ymirs children multiplied. But the gods felt that Ymir the FrostGiant was evil, and when they were strong enough, they slew him. Ever since that day, the gods andthe Jotun have been at war.


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I know this part of the story, interrupted Vakr. Ymirs body was supposed to have created theother seven worlds, Asgard, the gods world, Midgard,the humans world, Hel, the land of the dead,Alfheim, the land of the elves, Vanaheim, the world of the gods of nature, Svartalfheim, the darkelves land, and Jotunheim, the land of the giants. And all the nine worlds including Niflheim and

Muspelheim are connected by Yggdrasil, the World Tree.Very good, Tyrfingr replied dryly, You can read. Now let me continue. Something that may NOThave been written in your textbooks is that the gods and the Jotun may have always been at war,but they frequently took wives and husbands from each others tribes. On one occasion, Odinbecame blood-brother with Loki, son of Giants. Loki was a vicious trickster. Many of the mosthorrible events that happened to the gods in their long history were Lokis doing. But he wascharismatic and could wheedle his way out of almost everything.

The only thing Loki couldntworm his way out of was causing the death of Baldur, Odins favoriteson. The prophetesses called the Norns had told Odin that Baldur would die. Everyone loved Baldur,except for Loki, who was jealous of Odins love for his son. Baldurs mother had begged every

creature and plant in the world to refuse to let Baldur die, and all agreed, except the mistletoe.When Loki heard that news, he made a spear of mistletoe and tricked Baldurs twin brother, BlindHod into throwing it at the young god. The spear pierced Baldurs heart and he died.

Loki was bound in a cavern beneath the earth. He was bound in the entrails of his young son. Apoisonous serpent was set over Loki and its venom drips down into Lokis face. Lokis wife tendshim there, in the caverns, holding a bowl over him to catch the venom. But when the bowl is full, shemust go to the edge of the chasm to empty out the poison, and the venom falls into Lokis eyes.Thats when the earth tremors as the great Trickster god writhes in pain.

Father Drengr took over the tale from there. Ragnarok will be the end of all things, wizard. Lokiwill free himself, and he and his monstrous children will go to Jotunheim. They will recruit the

Giants to their side and wage the final war with the Aesir gods. All members of the nine worlds willchoose the sides on which to fight, but all will perish. None will survive. Muspelheim will burn thenine worlds into a cinder, and the sun and the moon will wink out. Was that written in yourtextbooks?

How do the Aesir gods know this? asked Vakr.

The Norns, the Spinners of Fate, answered Galmann. They know all that was, is and will be. Andthey have told Odin and the Aesir gods of their own fates. And the gods are now asking us to choosesides.

But began Vakr, If everyone is supposed to die, if everything is supposed to be destroyed, then

does it matter if we choose sides, or if we fight at all?

Maybe, Hrefna answered quietly, if we choose now, and do exactly what were planning, we canat least prevent the end times for many, many years to come.

Well, what exactly ARE we planning, asked Vakr again. You havent really told me yet.

Were going to Yggdrasil, replied Tyrfingr. Were going to the World Tree, to rally each race to theside of the Aesir. Were going to convince the Jotun not to fight us, because we will have the


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overwhelming force. Were negotiating allies for the upcoming battle, in the hopes the battle willnever be fought.

Vakr shook his head. Im a wizard, not a diplomat, he said wearily.

Oh, thats no problem, answered Tyrfingr jovially. If I cant convince them with fancy words, youcan blast them with magic to convince them of the truth!

And if that fails, Hrefna added, Ill just seduce them all. If theyre anything like YOU, theyll allfollow me anywhere!


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CHAPTER FOUR

Vakr woke that night to the sound of sobbing. He sat upright quickly, looking around the campsite.The dull glow of the coals in the fire pit showed the sleeping forms of his companions. Galmann was

on watch and was patrolling somewhere nearby.

Go back to sleep Vakr, Tyrfingr told him in hushed tones. Its Hrefna, she gets nightmaressometimes.

Hrefna? Vakr asked quietly. Are you ok?

The vlva mumbled a few incoherent words, then sat bolt upright, her eyes wide. No! Dont do it!Stop, please stop! she screamed.

That outburst was enough to wake Father Drengr as well. He stared at the girl, who was coveringher head with her hands, like she was protecting herself.

Why doesnt somebody wake her? he asked.

I tried that once, explained Tyrfingr. It just disorients her for hours. She needs to work it through.She wont even remember it in the morning.

Vakr crawled out of his sleeping roll and touched Hrefna on the arm. Whats happening Hrefna?What do you see?

Hell kill us all! Hell kill us all! Cant you see? she turned her blind, staring eyes to Vakr. Lookout! The vlva grabbed hold of the wizard and pulled him roughly down to the ground. Vakr heardthe whiz of an arrow passing through the air his body had recently occupied. It hit the dirt beyondthem with a thud.

Oh SHIT, Tyrfingr cried out, scrambling out of his blankets. Brother Galmann came running intothe clearing, yelling Orcs!

Thanks for the timely update Galmann, Tyrfingr snarled, grabbing for his guitar.

Drengr was already on his feet, mumbling a prayer. He passed his hands back and forth in amystical pattern. Another arrow launched into the campsite, but bounced harmlessly off theinvisible barrier the priests prayer had created around them.

Hrefna was on one knee, bow in hand, calmly launching arrow after arrow into the trees. Vakrwasnt even sure if she was awake yet. He grabbed hold of the staff that Tyrfingr had given him and

hauled himself to his feet.

He couldnt see his targets, so decided to send a volley oflightning bolts into the trees around them,in the direction of the arrow launch. Drawing upon the energy of the air around him, he willed thelightning into being, and released it with a gesture. As the small bolts rained down, he heardguttural screams from the trees. The wizard smiled grimly, and prepared another blast.

Galmann was grinning maniacally as he stalked towards to trees in the opposite direction, ready torain his particular brand of violence down on the orcs. Theyre surrounding us, he mentioned


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calmly, as he met a huge, green, hulking brute at the edge of the clearing. Vakr never saw anyonemove so fast; his eyes could barely register that Galmanns hands and feet were moving, but the orcin front of him was already on the ground, eyes rolled back into his head, and neck broken.

Father Drengr recited another prayer, firmly and with resolution. Vakr could feel his mana, hismagic force, strengthening. He turned to his left and sent a couple fire bolts into an approaching orc,felling him into a stinking pile of smoldering green flesh.

Tyrfingrs fingers danced over the strings of his guitar in a frenzied tune. In a moment, a volley ofarrows that glowed in the night appeared from nowhere and fell into the trees, causing the orcs stillwithin the trees to scream again.

Retreat! a gravelly voice called out, and the party heard a few more heavy bodies crash throughthe trees away from them.

They SPEAK? Vakr cried out, amazed.

Tyrfingr let his guitar lower by his side and cracked his knuckles. Theyre intelligent. Those areorcs. Welcome to your first brush with monsters Vakr.

We cant stay here, they know were here, Hrefna said in a strange voice. Vakr realized she wasstill asleep. Regardless, her advice was correct. It was close enough to dawn that a bit of light wasshowing through the trees, so the men started gathering their belongings. In a few minutes, Hrefnablinked a couple of times, and looked around her. She noticed her bow in her hands.

Did I miss all the fun? she asked, in her own, daylight-voice.

The adventurers eventually arrived at the next town on their questfor information, Drengrshometown of Eker. The party thanked the hunter, and paid him well. He merely grunted and

headed to the pub to find a drink and a return customer.

The Temple to Odin was on a nearby island. Drengar and Brother Galmann wanted to check thehistory books and scrolls to see if there was any lore they were currently missing.

Freyas TITS! Whats THAT thing? asked Vakr, amazed. He was pointing at an immense ovalstructure that seemed to be hovering over the ground, with what looked to be a full ships deckhanging below it.

You really DONT get out much, do you? asked Tyrfingr. Thats one of the new airships. Theytravel between Eker, Manaw, and Vinheidr. It floats, and is directed by those propellers on theback of the ship.

Fascinated, Vakr walked around the immense ship, studying how it was put together. Its fantastic!But why arent the svor working out here?

Tyrfingr made a face. Politics. Contracts. Government regulations. The airship is slower, its proneto attack by flying monsters oh yes, there are monsters that fly too Though I admit, its a muchmore scenic method of travel. Just remember, were notin our home province any more. This placeis governed totally differently, and the people here are more industrialized.


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Werent the svor automatons invented around here? Vakr asked.

Not in Eker, no. This is a simple town. Their specialty is mostly farming, milk production, andfireworks.

Hrefnas eyes sparkled at the mention of fireworks. Will you buy some Tyrfingr? Please?

Do you think Apple the Clown goes ANYWHERE without fireworks? Tyrfingr drew himself up, andpretended to be offended.

Its good to know that gunpowder is used for more than just weapons, muttered Vakr. Like manytraditionalists, Vakr hated guns. It seemed to go against his world-view to have such deadlymachines in the hands of even deadlier gunfighters. It never occurred to him to consider himselfjust as deadly, with his control over the elements.

Hrefna sat down under a wide-spread shade tree and leaned her back against the trunk. How longdo you think Drengr and Galmann will be on the island?

Who knows? shrugged theskald. It will take as long as it takes. Why dont we take Vakr for a lookaround town?

I wouldnt mind seeing the fireworks store, Vakr admitted, almost shyly.

Eker was as different from Fes as was possibly imaginable. Fes was a city of sand and stone, withcool water fountains and narrow, winding streets. Eker was surrounded by beautiful old-growthtrees, and had many brightly-flowered parks. There was a large, cobble-stoned plaza in the middleof the town where the trio sat and had drinks under huge parasols. They dug through their treasureof fireworks like little kids, and couldnt wait until nightfall to set some of them off.

It was getting near dusk when Father Drengr and Brother Galmann returned wearily from OdinsTemple.

As they all sat around one of the tables in the plaza, Drengr explained their situation a little more.We should be able to deal with the Nature gods and the Elves, he explained. They usually sidewith the Aesir. Our issues will be with the Dark Elves and the Dead.

Dead? asked Vakr. I fail to see how theyll be a problem.

You read the texts but you dont understand them, wizard. Hel is ruler of the Dead. She is also oneof Lokis children. You think of the Dead as dead; moldering in their graves. But they live onwizard, they live on. And if they are commanded to fight against us, they will do so. Hel holds

dominion over them and will fight on her fathers side, explained Drengr.On a positive note, added Galmann, Not all the dead wind up with Hel. The heroes, those that diedin battle, are in Odins Hall of Valhalla. They will fight with us.

And of course, the one thing youre not mentioning, Hrefna added gravely, Is that not all the menand women of Midgard will side with the Aesir either.

Drengr looked ather, aghast. Why would they NOT?


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Hrefna smiled sadly. You are a good man, Father. You believe that all men are good, like you. Butthey arent. Men are greedy and some are truly evil. I believe that many men and women will fighton Lokis side.

But then theyll all die! Drengr exploded.

Hrefna shook her head. Evil men dont think very far into the future. They think about NOW. Theythink about their wealth and whats in it for THEM. Some of them believe themselves to beinvulnerable. We will be fighting against our own brothers and sisters in this war. Her eyes got ahollow, distant look to them.

Then lets try to have as few of our brothers and sisters as possible on the opposing side, Tyrfingrsaid. Its time to start truly gathering our forces.

Drengr nodded. Then our next stop will be Yggdrasil.

Vakr tossed and turned on the soft inn bed. So many nights of sleeping in a bedroll by a campfirehe couldnt find comfort in the softness of the mattress. It didnt help that his dreams were filledwith visions of giants, dark elves and walking dead. He went to roll over again, when he felt strongfingers grip his hair, and the keen edge of a blade against his throat.

Dont move wizard, dont cry out, or youll be dead in a second, a voice said in the darkness.

Who what Vakr tried to ask, calming himself.

Shh, the voice hissed again. Answers soon enough. I dont want to wake the rest yet. Get up.

Vakr fumbled himself out of his blanket, and invisible hands took hold of his arm and steered himout of the room. The knife, thankfully, no longer pressed itself into his neck. Vakrs assailant wasbehind him, so even in the sparsely-lit hallway, he couldnt tell who had him. Common sense toldthe wizard if he were meant to be dead, hed already be that way.

Vakrs captor ushered him out into the quiet midnight streets of Eker. Lamplight guttered here andthere along the cobblestone square, but nobody was about. The night was beautiful, cloudless andfull of stars.

Promise me no magic, and Ill leave you unbound while we chat, the assailant told him. Vakrnodded tightly. They were walking cautiously down to Ekers sandy beach. Across the water, Vakrcould see the bright torchlight that kept Odins Temple lit throughout the night. The lights reflected

on the water and danced.Sit, a feminine voice said courteously. Vakr settled himself onto the sand, and finally looked at hiskidnapper.

Kolgrma? Vakr said incredulously. What in Niflheim are YOU doing here?

The thief stayed standing, her long stiletto still in her hand. She looked beautiful in the moonlight,as though she were part of the night. Her long black hair was braided back, and her working clothes


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of black leather shone in the half-light. We have a problem. Or I should say, YOU and your friendshave a problem. I have been offered a very large sum of money to make sure that none of you wakeup tonight.

She seemed to think about it for a second, and then slid the stiletto into a sheath in one thigh-highleather boot. However, I find myself curious. And I have discovered that I like information morethan money. She grinned, and looked, if possible, even more beautiful. She crouched down besidethe wizard gracefully.

What are you five doing, that someone might send me all the way to this godsforsaken burg toassassinate you? she asked.

Vakr brushed a weary hand over his face, shuddering as the adrenalin seeped out of his body. Youwouldnt believe it if I told you, Kolgrma.

Try me, she smiled, and flicked a toothpick out of her pouch so she could chew it.

Vakr recounted the plans they had made, and the reasons for them. He tried to be as factual as hecould, but since he couldnt believe half of what he was saying, he found the whole thing difficult.

Kolgrma, on the other hand, just nodded and listened, and asked a probing question every now andagain.

When Vakr had finally finished his story, Kolgrma heaved a sigh. That actually meshes very neatlywith what my informants have been telling me.

Vakrs eyes widened in surprise. Youre kidding me, he said.

No, Kolgrma replied seriously. There is something big in the offing. Factions are gathering. I

dont even know if theyre aware of WHY, but its happening. Greedy, ambitious men and womenare gathering small armies around them, for what reason I doubt they even know. But there havebeen whispers whispers of great wealth and power to those that will fight against the Churches.

Kolgrma, Vakr began carefully, wouldnt YOU

Kolgrma laughed a hearty, friendly sound. Not me, wizard, not me. I was brought up by the Sistersofthe Church. They loved me and cared for me. They werent thrilled by my choice of friends, or mychosen career but they still loved me regardless. Im no enemy of the Church in fact, a portion ofmy income goes to the Sisters who still take in orphans.

The Noble Thief, smiled Vakr.

Kolgrma grinned again, but this time her grin was much more feral. No, the Noble Assassin.Because the gods know there are those out there who truly deserve to die. And Im not afraid to bethe death-dealer when necessary.

Vakr nodded somberly. Then why NOT kill us? he asked.


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Kolgrma shrugged. I couldnt figure out why someone would want a monk and a high priest dead,she answered. And when I found out YOU were in their company, I knew there was somethingwrong.

Me? Vakr asked. You barely know anything about me!

Good gods, Vakr, Kolgrma replied. You lived in MY city for what, two years? I know more aboutyou than YOU do. My BUSINESS is information. I even know why you left Oslo and that prettyblonde girl!

If the light had been stronger, Vakrs blush would have been evident. But then a thought occurred tohim.

If you know so much about Fes why didnt you know about Hrefna? he asked, suspiciously.

Oh, I know a lot about your little red-headed girlfriend, Kolgrma said smugly. But a girl has tokeep SOME secrets, doesnt she?

Vakr tried to badger Kolgrma into telling him more about Hrefna, but she just laughed and ignoredhis questions. It didnt take long for her mood to change again, however.

Serious now, she looked at the wizard. We need to wake your friends and get all of you out of here,before daybreak. When my employers realize the job isnt done, theyll send along an Assassin withfewer scruples than I have.

Damn, I hadnt thought of that, Vakr admitted. Lets go get Tyrfingr and the rest.

Vakr carefully woke the sleeping crew, so they wouldnt be startled. In hushed voices, he convincedthem all to assemble with their gear on the cobbled plaza, well before dawn.

Kolla! Tyrfingr said, and opened his arms for a hug. The Assassin grinned broadly and wrappedherself around the skald.

Freyas TITS, Vakr growled, Do you know EVERYONE Tyrfingr?

What can I say? the skald grinned. I get around. He kissed Kolgrma on the top of her head andpeeled her off of him. Well, seeing that youre here little girl, I assume were in trouble?

The worst kind of trouble, Kolgrma agreed, nodding.

Then its begun, said Drengr, Like you said, Hrefna.

Hrefna nodded sadly. Its time to move on. Our opponents know where we are. We cant let themkeep that knowledge.

The faster we can get to the World Tree, the safer well be, said Galmann. The Guardians wont letjust anyone in.

What are our travel options? Tyrfingr asked Kolgrma.

Walking. There are spies watching the svor and the airship, she responded.


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portals to other cities? But their bodies themselves, they were built by men. I know they look alive,and its even possible to believe that they are alive, but theyre really machines.

Vakr grumbled, I suppose its cheaper and easier to have the svor make the warps than to payshifts of priests and priestesses to do the job.

Kolgrma shrugged, Of course it is. svor dont need food, water or sleep. They dont take breaks.People are fallible.

Obviously, Drengr added piously, priests and priestesses have more important work to do thanopening portals for travelers all the time.

Of course, Father, said Hrefna, with scarcely a trace of mockery in her voice.

Well after sunset, the group camped at a prearranged site outside of the shadow of the slowlycircling city, and waited for Tyrfingr to show up with his surprise package. They sat around thecampfire, telling tales of Kolgrmas adventures as the Guild Mistress of Thieves and Assassins,

while Drengr listened in, shaking his head with disapproval.

Hail the camp, a voice came out of the darkness. Dont shoot, Hrefna, its me.

Tyrfingr strode into the clearing and the circle of firelight, grinning from ear to ear.

So what did you have to fetch? Galmann asked the skald, curious.

Not WHAT. WHO, Tyrfingr said, and beckoned someone forward into the firelight.

Before them stood a pretty platinum-blonde haired woman, wearing the robes of a priestess. Shesmiled at everyone.

Id like to introduce you to my wife, Marna, Tyrfingr began.

WIFE? three or four voices said in unison.

Im as surprised as you obviously are, Marna said in a rich, pleasant voice. More so that thiswandering minstrel actually came back and fetched me like he promised. She winked at Tyrfingrand took hold of his hand.

When did you get married? Vakr demanded.

Tyrfingr, incredibly, blushed. About sixmonths ago.

And then he left me there in Manaw, reading moldy old books in the library, and traipsed off andfound all of you! Marna added. Not much of a honeymoon, she muttered under her breath.

And which sect of the Church do you belong to, Lady? asked Father Drengr courteously. Mybranch doesnt allow its priests to marry.

We are Daughters of Frigga, Wife to Odin, Marna explained. It is part of our canons to marry ifwe can, so we can experience the joys and pains of being bonded to a man.


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CHAPTER FIVE

After a pleasant evening of solid sleep, the greatly-expanded group woke and stretched in the sun-dappled clearing, planning the days journey.

Its been fine so far, Hrefna said, But Im already getting tired of walking. Going to Eker was ahuge detour from where we want to be.

It was necessary, Drengr told her.

Hrefna waved a delicate hand apologetically. I know Father, I dont begrudge it. Im just tired.

Marna sat near the coals smiling secretively, listening to the conversation.

Well, Tyrfingr announced, stretching. Times a-wasting. Lets get going.

Marna stood up and took a small blue gemstone out of her pocket. She whispered some words to

the gemstone and tossed it onto the ground in front of her. Ripples appeared on the rocky ground,as though she had tossed the stone into water. It was an eerie effect.

Everyone in, she said, gesturing to the rippling portal.

A warp portal? Vakr asked. To where?

Marna winked, but didnt answer. Vakr shrugged and stepped into the ripples of the portal. Theimmediate dizziness of stepping through space gripped him, but he was used to it after years ofusing the svor network for travel. He flexed his knees slightly, and appeared on the other side. Hestepped to the right to be out of the way for the next traveler to arrive, and took a look around him.

He was standing on a weathered wooden platform, high up in trees that looked decidedly tropical.The heat was sweltering. Vines with bright flowers climbed the trunks of the trees, and theblossoms buzzed with bees and other insects. There was an intoxicating scent in the air, a mixtureof black earth, flowers and greenery. Vakr couldnt remember the last time he was in a place thatfelt so alive.

A small child climbed up a rough rope ladder to join Vakr on the platform. The child was ebony-skinned with shining dark eyes. He was naked and looked quite comfortable in the heat. He smiledand waved at the group, then ran off to look for his friends. Vakr envied the childs freedom andwished he could shuck off some of his robes. He could feel the fabric of his under-robes sticking tohis back already.

The rest of the travelers arrived one by one, with Marna appearing last. It was interesting to seethem step through the portal. From this side, it was though their feet, then their legs, then the restof them stepped into existence from nowhere. Welcome to Kilwa, Marna told them, grinning. Ithought youd like a bit of a shortcut!

Tyrfingr laughed out loud. THAT shaves a bit of time off our travels, he boomed in his heartyvoice.

Thats right beside the World Tree! Galmann crowed happily.


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Yes agreed Drengr. And there it is, he said reverently, as he pointed.

The tree was beyond immense. Even surrounded by heavy foliage, if Vakr craned his neck upwardhe could see the huge, old tree with its top branches hidden in the clouds. The CLOUDS! He couldntbelieve the size of the thing he was seeing. The trunk of the tree could contain a good-sized village.Even considering how close they were to the tree, Vakr realized that it would be a good days walkthrough the jungle to get there.

We need to visit the Chief of the village, Tyrfingr told them. The one who gave you the staff, headded to Vakr.

The adventurers walked along fraying, swaying rope bridges, over wooden platforms and up anddown rope ladders to reach the Chiefs hut. Life teemed around them as they walked; brightlycoloured birds flew from branch to branch, teasing and taunting them as they walked. Little insectsthat glowed like jewels hid between overhanging leaves. One persistent monkey bounced aroundthem, begging for treats.

This one is pretty tame, Hrefna laughed, as the monkey swarmed up her leg and sat on hershoulder. He ran his little brown fingers through her hair and tugged on her ear. She reached intoher pouch and offered him some dried fruit, which he took and happily munched. His prehensile tailwrapped around her upper arm like a hug and he chattered to her excitedly.

Kolgrma grinned and said, Looks like you have a new boyfriend Hrefna!

Hes very affectionate, Hrefna said primly, trying not to burst into giggles as the little primate gaveher wet kisses on the cheek.

Tyrfingr laughed and shook his head, watching them.

Little huts nestled here and there on the branches and wooden platforms. Dark, smiling facespeered at them from windows. An old couple sitting on a bench outside their home waved to them,then spoke to each other in a musical language that incorporated hand gestures and clicks. Tyrfingrnodded and responded to them in their language. They laughed and waved the group onwards asthough they were saying shoo children, on your way.

You speak Kilwan? Vakr asked.

The Chief took the time to teach me, Tyrfingr explained. I spent a lot of time here, collecting theirstories.

Marna slipped her hand into Tyrfingrs and said, I speak Kilwan as well. I was here as a

missionary. This is where Tyr and I met.

Its also where we were married, Tyrfingr said, and stopped to kiss his bride.

Vakr coughed, embarrassed, and looked away.

Jealous, now that Ive replaced you? Hrefna teased. The monkey sat proudly on her shoulder andwhispered little secrets into her ear.


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Kolgrma slid her arm around Vakrs waist and snuggled against him. Thats ok Vakr, Ill keep youcompany. Then she laughed and peeled herself away from him as the heat caused their sweatybodies to stick together. Well, maybe when its cooler, like tonight? There was a hint of promiseand challenge to her words.

Vakr blushed, not sure if she was serious, but was certainly looking forward to the evening to see ifshe was.

The group finally arrived before the hut of the Chief of Kilwa. The hut wasnt much larger than theother living huts, but it was ornately decorated. Beautiful wood carvings adorned the walls,highlighted with bright paint and gold leaf. The carvings seemed to tell the story of the Kilwannatives, and how they were birthed from the World Tree.

A short, barrel-chested guard with a wicked looking spear in his hand stood at the door. Tyrfingrspoke to him briefly and the guard nodded and rapped on the door with the butt of his spear.

The door opened abruptly, and a small, lively old man stood before them. He wore a loinclothwoven of red and gold threads. He wore strand after strand of polished stone beads in every colorof the rainbow around his neck. The necklaces peeked out from under his copious white beard. Hishair was also pure white and utterly untamed. The chiefs eyes fairly glowed in his smiling face.You come in! he commanded, gesturing for them to follow.

He laughed at Drengrs look of surprise at his commandof their language. I teach Tyrfingr. I learntoo!

Tyrfingr whispered to Vakr, He understands more than he speaks.

The seven companions crowded into the little hut and settled down on woven reed mats strewnacross the floor. The Chief sat on a stuffed, leopard-skin pillow, and greeted each of them with a

smile and a nod.

It is time to visit the Life Tree? the Chief asked Tyrfingr, cutting through any potentialpleasantries.

Tyrfingr nodded, It is, Grandfather. The wait is finally over.

The old chief nodded decisively. You will dance and sing with us tonight? the old man asked thegroup.

Of course, Grandfather, Hrefna answered him. We would love to dance with you!

Hrefnas little monkey was curiously investigating the interior of the hut. He would pick upeverything he could find. He lifted a small basket filled with heavily scented flowers, and dumpedthem onto the floor to see if there might be food underneath the petals.

The Chief gently chided the monkey, and gestured to the window. The monkey seemed to actuallybe contrite. He glanced back at Hrefna, then slunk out the window. Tyrfingr laughed, and Hrefnaasked him why.

Grandfather called your monkey little tree demon, he answered.


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Monkey is everywhere, stealing and making messes, explained the Chief. But we enjoy how theylive life.

Hrefna felt very at ease in the Chiefs hut. In fact, she had felt much more calm and centered eversince they had arrived at Kilwa. Maybe it was the nearness of the World Tree that was helping hersettle. She felt if she tried just a little harder, she might reach some of her lost memories.

The Chief was telling them his plans for the next morning. I send two warriors with you. When youget to the Life Tree, two metal warriors will be there waiting.

Metal warriors? Drengr asked Tyrfingr.

Knights, Tyrfingr explained. They wear armor, so the Kilwa call them the metal warriors.

Galmann nodded. Knights of the Church protect the sacred entrances to Yggdrasil. There are manysecrets within the Tree that are not meant for every man.

The Chief laughed. Metal warriors dont know all ways into Life Tree. Kilwa go inside all the time.

Grandfather, Drengr replied diplomatically, The Church would never stop the Children of theWorld Tree from going inside.

We know, we know, the Chief laughed. Sneaking in is more fun!

The party that night was raucous. Smiling, dark-skinned tribe members swarmed everywhere, men,women and children alike. There was beautiful music played on drums, rattles and pipes. A hugefire burned in a hammered metal fire pit set into the wooden platform high above the jungle floor.

A pretty Kilwan girl served drinks of fermented fruit juices. She wore bright skirts of blue material,but was unselfconsciously bare-breasted. Hrefna and Kolgrma giggled to one another whilewatching Father Drengr try to look everywhere but at the girls ample chest.

The Chief nudged the priest and pointed the girl out to him. My granddaughter! he said proudly.

She shes very lovely, the priestsaid in a strangled voice.

That exchange sent Hrefna and Kolgrma into gales of laughter, which only stopped when Tyrfingrchided them. Stop teasing the priest, ladies, he said in fatherly tone.

Later that evening, Hrefna stood up and asked the old Chief, May I dance for you, Grandfather?

The old man smiled and nodded and an area was cleared for the vlva. She glanced over at Tyrfingr

who nodded, telling her that he was willing to play. Hrefna ducked into the hut she had been givento change.

Tyrfingr carefully tuned his guitar, and many of the villagers crowded around to watch thespectacle. They remembered the skald from his visit months ago. They loved the exotic sound of hismusic.


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Hrefna was in a strange mood as she changed into her dance costume. Although she felt at ease inthe Kilwa village, she felt that she needed to explain how serious the visit to Yggdrasil would be.Rather than her usual silks, she put on a very different costume.

Hrefna came out onto the wooden platform and into the flickering firelight. She was wearing a shortskirt made of plates of heavy leather, metal arm bracers and a molded leather chest-plate. Her bootswere matching leather, and came up to her thighs. Her hair was braided and looped onto her headin warriors braids, out of the way. In each hand, she held a coiled leather whip.

The vlva looked at Tyrfingr and caught his eye. He raised an eyebrow at her costume, and knewwhat she wanted him to play. Hrefna stomped hard onto the wooden platform, once, twice, threetimes. Tyrfingr began to play a battle song and his rich voice provided the words.

Atli, high lord of all the horse-riders

Would avenge the death of his sister Brynhild.

Unless a blood-debt could be paid

He vowed all the Gjukungs would be killed.

The whip in Hrefnas left hand was slightly shorter than the one in her right. She stomped her feetand cracked one whip after the other, simulating the hoof-beats of the horses of Atli.

To appease the Lord, the Gjukungs offered

The beautiful Guthrun for him to wed.

The girl was given a drink of forgetfulness

So she would willingly go to his bed.

Hrefna suddenly became the girl in the dance, young and nave. She wrapped the whips around herwrists to show how she was bound, against her true will, to this vicious man.

Once married, Guthrun learned her man

Was not content with the blood-debt paid

And intended the deaths of Gunnar and Hogni

At whose feet, Brynhilds murder was laid.

Hrefna/Guthrun stepped fearfully around the fire pit, the knowledge of her kinfolks danger burnedwithin her. She had to find a way to warn them.

Lord Atli invited the brothers to join him

But Guthrun sent word in a message of runes

That treachery lie in the heart of the horse-lord

And the brothers were coming to meet theirdooms.

Hrefnas feet sketched the magic signs of the runes on the weathered wood of the platform. Whereshe danced, a faint glow followed. Her whips curled and snapped in the air.

Gunnar and Hogni ignored the girls message

And arrived at the door of the terrible lord

Hogni died first to slake the lords anger


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His heart was cut out with Atlis sharp sword.

She danced Hognis death in terrible stomps of her boot heels. Her whips snapped out with deadlyaccuracy, snuffing the torches that lit the railings of the wooden platform. One by one, sheextinguished the flames.

Gunnar was cast down with the serpents

He valiantly used his harp to defend,

But though the snakes fell asleep to his music,

The bite of one adder brought Gunnar his end.

By the glow ofthe firelight, Hrefnas whips seemed to be living things; deadly snakes. She dancedwith the snakes, trying to mesmerize them, but eventually, she dropped to her knees, the whipsencircling her neck and torso. As Tyrfingr played out the last notes of his song and his voice faded,Hrefna leaned forward, pressing her forehead against the planks of wood in front of her. The dance

was done.

Only the soft hum of insects and the crackling of the fire could be heard. It seemed that no one waseven breathing. Slowly, a villagers bare foot stomped rhythmically on the planking, and one by one,the beat was taken up by others, until the trees fairly shook with their stomping. Hrefna stayedwhere she was, shuddering from the exertion and power of the dance.

It is a dangerous job you do, the Chief told her. The old man helped her to her unsteady feet. Heheld a closed fist over his heart. The Kilwans will fight with you when the time comes.

You know our plans then? she asked shakily.

Yes, yes, the pretty white-haired girl told us when she married Tyrfingr here, the Chief explained,pointing at Marna, who was leaning against her husband.

Tyr explained everything to me, Marna told Hrefna. I knew the Chief would want to help protectMidgard, she explained.

Hrefna sat down and gratefully accepted the drink she was offered. The great party warmed upagain around her, but she felt very isolated. As the evening wore on, she watched Tyrfingr andMarna sneak to their hut, and she smiled. However, when Kolgrma took Vakr by the hand and ledhim to her hut, Hrefna felt a pain she couldnt quite name. She shook off the feeling after a while,and joined in with the beautiful village girls as they danced to the native music, showing some ofher steps and learning theirs. Long into the evening, Hrefna danced, until, exhausted, she went to

her own hut alone.

Hrefna wasnt the only member of the group to get a short nights sleep. Galmann and Drengrstayed up late discussing the Kilwan legends of the World Tree with the Chieftain. Tyrfingr andMarna needed to get reacquainted, and Vakr and Kolgrma spent the majority of the night talking.

So many thoughts went through Vakrs head when Kolgrma lead him to her hut. Why did shechoose him? Did he want this? Could he do this? Was he ready? Would his body shut up longenough for his brain to get a chance to think about it?


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All his questions silenced the minute the door shut behind them. Before you start thinking toomuch, Kolgrma warned him, I took you in here so we could talk.Privately.

Oh, Vakr responded. He sat down heavily on a floor cushion. Confusion and disappointmentshowed on his face, along with a small touch of relief.

Kolgrma chose to ignore his body language and continued on. Ive known Tyrfingr for quite sometime. Anyone who works my town is my business. Ive known, for years now, that hes connected toa much larger organization than the Skalds Guild, and I knew his spies were just as good as mine.Weve shared lots of information over the years.

Vakr felt shocked. How little he knew his friend, the man he grew up with!

Thats why I know so much about YOU, she continued. Tyrfingr asked me to keep an eye on youwhen you came to Fes. He needed to keep tabs on where you were, though he never really told mewhy. I did it out of professional courtesy. Well, I did, at first

What do you think you know about me? Vakr asked, somewhatdefensively. He wasnt sure heliked his privacy invaded like this, not at all.

I know you graduated top of the class at the Mage Academy. I know that nobody completed thewizard testing faster or better than you. Ever. I know you were the youngest successful applicant tobecome a high wizard. I know that you did it all to impress her.

Vakr sucked in air sharply as if she had just punched him, and let it out in a sigh. Luna

Kolgrmas voice softened. But you didnt know she couldnt handle competing with you. You didntknow that SHE wanted to be the best, and you were thwarting her at every turn. You didnt knowthat you were turning her against you.

Vakr stared at Kolgrma, stricken. Yes, but how did YOU?

I dug deep, Vakr, she said gently. When she left the academy and went to be a sage rather than awizard I had my people follow her trail to Manaw. Shes still there, you know. I could tell you howto get in contact with her.

Vakr shook his head. When Luna left, she said things. Things that cut me deeply. I really think shedrather never hear from me again.

And you dont contact her, because no matter what she said you still love her, and you dontwant her to be hurt, Kolgrma barely whispered.

Vakr nodded his head, mutely, and blinked back tears.

Kolgrma sat in front of Vakr, and drew her knees up to her chin. She looked like a very vulnerablelittle girl in that position, so different from her cocky, carefree, daylight self.

And because Tyrfingr asked me to, I watched you. I saw you lose yourself in books, in booze, inwatching Hrefna dance anything to avoid thinking about her, Kolgrma said. You moved awayfrom Oslo to forget her, and in the process, you forgot yourself.


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CHAPTER SIX

The sun filtered down through the canopy of the jungle, causing splashes of sunlight to shinethrough the window of Hrefnas hut. She groaned and rolled over and tried to cover her head, but it

was no use. She had to get up.

Ah gods! Everything hurt. She hadnt danced that long or that hard in ages. It felt good though. Shepulled on her clothes and went out to join her friends.

All of them were sitting on the benches lining the tree-top platform, eating sliced fruit and somesort of bread for breakfast. Tyrfingr and Marna were cuddled against each other, predictably. Vakrand Kolgrma sat together, barely brushing fingertips, talking intimately. Father Drengr and BrotherGalmann were watching a Kilwan youth curiously as he tied vines around his ankles. The boyturned and winked, then leapt off the platform! Hrefna screamed and started towards the edge,when she heard the boy howl then start to laugh hysterically. Incredibly, he had reached the ends ofthe vines, which were also lashed to the platform, and had bounced. His head was a scant foot or

two above the ground below, and his friends were at the bottom, helping him down.

Hrefna sat down, weakly, feeling her heart pound. Fascinating, isnt it? Galmann asked her. Its asort of sport and coming of age ceremony for them. Tyrfingr says they call it a spirit leap.

Maybe you could warn me next time? she snapped, feeling foolish about being frightened.Galmann grinned at her. A new youngster scrambled up the rope ladder to the platform to try hishand at the game.

Soon enough, the group had gathered their kits and was standing at the edge of the Kilwan village.With them was the old Chief and two of his warriors; sturdy, strong-shouldered men of the tribe.They both carried nasty-looking spears and shields covered in the hides of the local boars.

The path they travelled was well-worn by thousands of bare feet pounding the ground flat overcountless years. Overhanging vines and crawling plants had been cleared to make the way clutter-free for visitors to the World Tree. The path was only wide enough for them to walk in single-filehowever, and the jungle wrapped around them like

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