Chapter 91: 91: Slude's Request
In the Asgard realm, deep within Fenrir's forest, the sunlight filtered through thick leaves, casting a mosaic of light across the ground. Beneath a towering tree, Hoder, the dark god, sat quietly, her serene presence illuminated by scattered golden rays.
Dressed in a resplendent black gown, her long hair cascaded like liquid night, blending into the grassy floor. On her lap rested Kevin, fast asleep. Hoder's delicate features softened into a gentle smile as her hands lightly brushed the boy's cheek, her touch tender, though she was cursed with blindness.
Despite her inability to see, Hoder's every movement exuded grace. She sat still, the occasional breeze stirring her hair, enjoying the rare peace.
This tranquil moment was disrupted by the arrival of Balder, her twin sister.
"Sister? Where are you? Troublemaker—ah." Balder's voice halted mid-call as she spotted Hoder and Kevin beneath the tree. Her expression softened into an amused smile as she placed a finger to her lips, reminding herself to stay quiet.
For a moment, Balder simply watched. It was her earlier effort, after all, that allowed this serene scene to exist.
At first, Balder had cared for Kevin out of obligation, assured by Ruger, the god of light and the sun, that Kevin was destined for greatness. Over time, however, her intuition proved right—Kevin and Hoder had formed a bond.
Hoder had even offered Kevin her most profound blessing—an act that reaffirmed Balder's belief in their connection.
Balder, not wanting to disturb them, began retreating. However, before she could leave, she was joined by others—Fenrir, the towering demon wolf, the Valkyrie Slude, and Skadi, the ice goddess who had recently joined the Aesir.
"What's the matter?" Skadi asked, tilting her head as she approached. Noticing Balder's gaze, her attention followed.
Her breath caught when she spotted Hoder with Kevin resting on her lap. Kevin stirred slightly, but Hoder gently reassured him, brushing her fingers through his hair.
Fenrir joined them, lying beside the two beneath the tree. Despite his immense size, he moved cautiously, as though not to disturb the moment. The wolf sniffed at Kevin curiously.
"He's actually sleeping," Fenrir noted, his tail wagging. He glanced at Hoder, contemplating whether to nudge Kevin awake with a playful paw swipe.
"Don't," Hoder said softly, her voice steady yet kind. The wolf, subdued by her calm authority, relented immediately.
"Let him sleep," Slude advised. Standing nearby, she had observed Kevin's exhaustion from his recent days of relentless training. "He needs it."
The others nodded in quiet agreement. Kevin's rigorous schedule had not gone unnoticed by those closest to him.
When Kevin finally awoke, the sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow across the forest. He blinked, his drowsy gaze falling on Hoder, whose unseeing eyes were fixed gently ahead.
"You're awake," she said softly.
Kevin stretched, a sheepish smile tugging at his lips. "I was wondering why my nap felt so comfortable. Turns out I've been enjoying a knee pillow from you, Sister Hoder."
Hoder chuckled softly, her hand brushing against his cheek. Though Kevin spoke lightly, she sensed his initial awkwardness at realizing he had been resting on her. Her sensitivity to such subtleties made her smile all the more.
"Where are Slude and the others?" Kevin asked, sitting up and glancing around.
"They should be at the hut Shaki built nearby," Hoder replied. She hesitated before adding, "You suggested that Shaki build that hut, didn't you? If you're worried about Fenrir, I can stay here longer to keep him company."
Kevin paused, surprised by her insight. He didn't respond immediately but eventually shook his head.
"That won't be necessary. Just visiting like you've been doing is already enough. Besides, Shaki is here to help," Kevin said.
Hoder nodded slightly, sensing Kevin's unspoken concerns. He had always worried about Fenrir—not only because of his loneliness but also to avoid the tragic fate Kevin knew from legend.
In the mythos, the gods, fearful of Fenrir's power, would eventually bind him with unbreakable chains. Tyr, the only god who dared approach the wolf, paid the price by losing his arm.
Kevin wanted to prevent that future.
After chatting with Hoder for a while longer, Kevin helped her to her feet. Together, they walked toward the hut, where the others waited.
In the courtyard, Slude had prepared a hearty meal for everyone. The warm atmosphere was lively, filled with banter and laughter.
Balder tried to tease Kevin about napping on Hoder's lap but faltered when she noticed his composure. Hoder's reddened cheeks, however, revealed all. Balder let the matter drop, though not without a playful smirk.
After dinner, Kevin led Slude back to Valhalla. By now, it was dark, and the warriors were gathered, drinking and feasting to recover from the day's battles. Some, unable to resist Kevin's taunts, challenged him to spar.
The sparring matches quickly drew a crowd, with the warriors forming a ring around Kevin. Holding their drinks and plates of food, they cheered on the combatants, thrilled by the excitement.
Among the spectators stood Tyr, the god of war and justice. Watching Kevin's fluid movements, he shook his head in mild disbelief.
"This guy... It's like he's possessed lately," Tyr muttered to Slude. "You'd better keep an eye on him."
"I already do," Slude replied, her gaze never leaving Kevin. "He's been eating the sacred boar's meat and drinking the goat's milk. They restore him fully every day. And I've ensured everything is processed to keep his mortal body safe."
Tyr nodded, unsurprised. Slude's diligence had always set her apart from other Valkyries. She had earned the trust of both gods and mortals alike.
"It's impressive how fast he's improving," Tyr noted. "It's like he's driven by something we don't understand."
"Maybe that's why Luger and Scathach are so invested in him," said a voice from behind.
Both Tyr and Slude turned quickly to see Odin approaching, dressed in unassuming robes.
"Great God," they greeted him respectfully.
"I felt like visiting," Odin said simply, his gaze fixed on Kevin. After a moment, a faint smile touched his lips. "His progress is remarkable. He's starting to remind me of my half-apprentice."
"Yes, Great God," Slude agreed, pride evident in her voice. "He's working tirelessly. Soon, his martial skills alone will make him unmatched in Valhalla."
"Good," Odin said, his tone thoughtful. "He's come far, but he still has room to grow. Once he masters the magic spear and sword fully, he will truly reach his potential."
Tyr couldn't help but ask, "Do you think he'll surpass us one day?"
Odin chuckled softly. "If he truly unlocks his potential, he may surpass even you, Tyr. And don't forget—he wields a magic sword rivaling my Gungnir."
Tyr fell silent, glancing again at Kevin, who was immersed in the sparring match.
"What about you, Slude?" Odin asked suddenly. "I sense you've found the answers you sought. What will you do now?"
Slude hesitated but finally met Odin's gaze. "Yes, Great God, I've found my answer. That's why I'd like to make a request..."
As Slude spoke, Odin observed her closely, noting the determination in her eyes. Though she had once been uncertain, it was clear she had changed completely.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Go to my Patreon Account to read up to 30 Advance Chapters
patreon.com/Izanami_no_Mikoto