The God of Valor

Heads Up!

This story has been completely rewritten—new scenes, improved storytelling, and possibly 100% more sarcasm. Because of that, the old version is being removed, and this fresh, upgraded edition is taking its place.

If you've read the previous version, welcome back! Things might look familiar, but expect plenty of changes. If you're new here, you're getting the best version right from the start.

Thanks for sticking around, and I hope you enjoy the new and improved ride!

---

The palace courtyard was bathed in the golden light of the Asgardian sunset, its brilliance dimmed only by the heavy silence that hung between father and daughter. Eirlys stood tall, her crimson hair catching the fading sun as her green eyes, sharp and unyielding, met Odin's. Yet, even in her defiance, there was a trace of unease. She had long suspected there were truths about Asgard's past that her father had shielded her from. Now, standing in this solemn moment, she would finally hear them.

Odin, his broad shoulders weighed down by centuries of leadership, gazed at her with a mixture of sorrow and resolve. Though his body was as strong as ever, his expression betrayed the toll of the secrets he carried. His golden armor caught the light, but it seemed dulled, a reflection of the burden in his heart. He took a step closer to her, his voice quiet but heavy as he began.

"Eirlys," he said, his tone measured, "there is something you must know—about your sister, Hela."

Eirlys stiffened. The name alone was enough to send a chill down her spine. She had heard whispers, fragments of a tale buried deep in Asgard's history, but no one had dared speak of Hela openly. Her heart clenched, yet she held her ground, her voice steady despite the unease creeping into her. "Go on."

Odin's single blue eye, bright as the cold sky, bore into hers. "Hela was once my greatest ally. She was fierce, unyielding—a warrior born to lead. Together, we brought glory to Asgard through conquest. But…" He hesitated, the words catching in his throat. "When I grew weary of war, when I sought to temper my rule with peace, Hela refused to follow. She craved power beyond measure, dominion over all the realms. She believed the path we walked together was her destiny, her right."

Eirlys felt a knot tightening in her stomach. "And you tried to stop her?" she asked, though she already knew the answer.

Odin nodded gravely. "I did. When her ambition threatened to consume Asgard itself, I sent the Valkyrie to bring her to heel. I thought—" He faltered, his voice trembling ever so slightly, though he quickly steadied himself. "I thought they could turn her back from the brink. But Hela… she slaughtered them all. Every last one."

Eirlys took a sharp breath, her eyes widening. The weight of his words pressed down on her chest, suffocating. "She killed the Valkyrie?" she whispered, horror creeping into her voice. "Her own sisters-in-arms?"

"Yes." Odin's gaze hardened, his voice tinged with anger and regret. "Her lust for power blinded her to loyalty, to family, to reason. She became a threat not just to the realms but to all of creation. I had no choice, Eirlys."

"And what did you do?" Eirlys pressed, her voice quieter now, but her tone demanded answers.

Odin's expression darkened. "I confronted her myself. Our battle shook the very fabric of Yggdrasil. But even I could not destroy her. Instead, I banished her to Helheim, where her powers could be contained. There she remains, imprisoned for all eternity—so long as I draw breath."

Eirlys stepped back, her hand instinctively clutching the fabric of her emerald Asgardian gown as if to anchor herself. She looked away for a moment, her mind racing. "But she is my sister," she murmured, her voice trembling. "Our blood…"

"She was my daughter, yes," Odin said softly, stepping closer. "But she ceased to be my heir the moment she chose power over her people. The woman who was my firstborn… is gone."

Eirlys shook her head, her emotions warring within her. She turned back to him, tears glistening in her eyes though she refused to let them fall. "And you never told me? You never told Thor or Loki?"

Odin's face softened. He reached out, placing a firm yet gentle hand on her shoulder. "Thor and Loki do not know of her existence. I could not burden them with such knowledge—not yet. And you…" He hesitated, his voice dipping. "I thought it kinder to keep this from you as well, but now that you have returned, you must understand the truth."

Eirlys inhaled sharply, regaining her composure. "And what would you have me do with this truth, Father?" she asked, her voice tinged with bitterness. "Forget her? Pretend she never existed?"

"No," Odin said firmly, his grip on her shoulder tightening. "But you must not speak of her. Not to Thor, not to Loki. They are young—unprepared for the burden of Hela's legacy. When the time comes, they will learn. But until then, I ask that you honor my wishes."

Eirlys clenched her jaw, her green eyes blazing. She wanted to protest, to demand more answers, but the sorrow etched into her father's face stopped her. She exhaled slowly, her voice softer now. "I will do as you ask, Father. But I won't forget her. Hela is still my sister, no matter what she's done."

Odin's gaze softened, and for a moment, his stern facade cracked. He reached up, brushing a strand of fiery hair from her face. "You have your mother's heart, Eirlys," he said quietly. "But I fear it may one day lead you down a path as treacherous as Hela's. Guard it well."

Eirlys straightened, her resolve hardening. "I am not Hela, Father," she said, her voice steady now. "I will not betray my family or Asgard."

Odin nodded solemnly, though his expression remained troubled. "Then let us hope that day never comes."

The silence that followed was heavy, but beneath it lay an unspoken understanding—a bond forged through shared pain and a promise of loyalty that would define Eirlys' place in the realm of gods.

—

As the grand doors of the palace creaked open, their intricate carvings illuminated by the light of the bifrost, Odin strode in first, his towering frame and silver beard lending him a presence that seemed larger than life. Beside him, Eirlys carried Haraldr, her auburn hair glowing like a crown in the golden light, her emerald-green eyes scanning the hall nervously. She clutched her son closer to her chest, a blend of resolve and vulnerability etched into her features.

Behind them, the palace servants stood frozen in awe, unsure whether to bow to the Allfather or stare at the striking woman they had only heard of in hushed legends.

At the far end of the hall stood Frigga, her queenly demeanor giving way to raw emotion the moment her eyes fell on Eirlys. She broke decorum entirely, rushing forward, her soft golden gown billowing like a sunlit cloud.

"Eirlys!" Frigga's voice cracked, her hands trembling as she reached for her daughter. Tears streamed down her face, her carefully composed façade crumbling. "It is truly you."

Eirlys's lips quivered, and for a brief moment, she looked every bit the young woman torn between worlds. "Mother," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion, as she allowed herself to be enveloped in Frigga's arms.

Frigga held her as though afraid she would disappear. She pulled back just enough to cup Eirlys's face, her eyes scanning every inch of her daughter's features, as if memorizing them all over again. "You're more radiant than ever," Frigga said, her voice thick with pride and disbelief. "By the Norns, how I have missed you."

Eirlys smiled through her tears. "I missed you too, Mother. Every day."

But before either could say more, Haraldr let out a small coo, his tiny hand waving as if to remind them of his presence. Eirlys chuckled softly, shifting her son so Frigga could see him better.

"Mother," she began, her voice laced with nervous pride, "this is Haraldr. Your grandson."

Frigga gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "My grandson…" she whispered in awe. She reached out hesitantly, her fingers brushing the baby's downy cheek. "Oh, Eirlys, he's… perfect."

Haraldr blinked up at her with curious eyes, and Frigga laughed through her tears. "You've brought so much joy back to us already."

But the moment of warmth was interrupted by the unmistakable heavy footsteps of Thor and Loki, both descending the staircase nearby, their faces painted with confusion and wariness.

"Father," Thor began, his voice rich with curiosity, "who is this woman you've brought to the palace?"

Odin, who had been silently observing the reunion with a heavy heart, stepped forward. His voice, deep and commanding, carried the weight of a thousand lifetimes. "She is not just a woman, Thor. She is your sister."

The room fell deathly silent. Thor's brows knit together as he tried to process the revelation, while Loki's sharp, calculating eyes flicked between Odin and Eirlys.

"Our sister?" Thor repeated, his voice a mixture of shock and disbelief.

Loki's lips curled into a faint smirk, though it did not reach his eyes. "How intriguing," he said dryly, his tone masking the storm of emotions beneath. "Pray, Father, when were you planning to mention this before now?"

Odin sighed heavily, rubbing a hand across his brow. "It is a long tale, one of my greatest mistakes… and perhaps my greatest regret."

Eirlys's voice, calm but firm, cut through the tension. "I don't blame you for your doubts," she said, addressing her brothers directly. "This… was not a part of your story until now."

Thor stepped closer, his blue eyes searching hers. "You carry yourself like a warrior," he observed. "But why would we not know of you?"

Eirlys hesitated, glancing at Odin for guidance. When he gave her a solemn nod, she took a deep breath. "Because I stood against him," she admitted. "Long ago, when our father sought conquest above all else, I believed in peace."

"She defied me," Odin said gravely, stepping beside her. "When I sought to unite the Nine Realms through force, Eirlys argued for understanding. Her defiance… angered me. And in my arrogance, I exiled her to Midgard, stripping her of her powers and forcing her to live as a mortal."

Thor's jaw tightened as he turned to Odin. "You exiled your own daughter because she wanted peace?"

Odin's expression darkened with regret. "Yes, and it is a decision I have come to rue every day since."

Loki, standing a few paces behind Thor, folded his arms, his emerald-green eyes narrowing. "And now she returns," he said, his voice deceptively soft. "With a child, no less. How convenient."

Eirlys's gaze locked with Loki's, and for a moment, her fiery spirit shone through. "Do you always meet new family with suspicion, or am I just special?"

Loki's lips twitched upward, the faintest hint of a genuine smile breaking through his usual façade. "Special," he admitted, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes.

Thor stepped forward, breaking the tension with his signature warmth. "Eirlys," he said, his voice steady, "if you are our sister, then you are family. And Haraldr—" he leaned closer to the baby, his grin widening— "he is our nephew. Welcome home, both of you."

Eirlys blinked back tears, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Thor. And you, Loki," she added, shooting him a pointed look. "I hope we'll have time to get to know each other better."

Loki tilted his head, his smile inscrutable. "Oh, I'm certain we will."

As the family stood together, the golden light of the palace seeming to embrace them, Odin stepped forward, his voice heavy with emotion. "Today marks a new chapter for our family," he declared. "Let us not dwell on the mistakes of the past but look toward the future—together."

—

As Odin stands at the forefront, a heavy shadow falls over his features, his brow furrowed in a mixture of regret and sorrow. His massive form, imposing even in its age, seems to carry a great weight that burdens his every step. Thor and Loki, standing a few paces away, sense the gravity of the moment. They look to their father, eyes wide with anticipation, knowing that the secrets about to be revealed could shatter their understanding of their family and the world around them.

Odin's voice, deep and resonant like the thunderous skies above Asgard, cuts through the tension. "My children," he begins, his words measured and deliberate, "there is a truth that has been kept from you—a truth that concerns your sister, Eirlys, and the dire circumstances that led to her return to Asgard."

Thor leans forward, his golden hair falling over his brow, his face now taut with concern. Loki, ever the more introspective one, narrows his green eyes, sensing that this revelation will not be an easy one. Odin hesitates, his hands clasped behind his back, his shoulders set as if preparing to weather a storm.

"Father," Thor says, his voice rumbling with a mix of unease and curiosity, "what has happened? Tell us."

Odin exhales slowly, his eyes looking far off into the distance, as if searching for the right words to convey the sorrow he feels. "It was a time of great conflict," Odin continues, his voice now more fragile, filled with a depth of emotion. "Your sister, Eirlys, was living as a mortal in Midgard. She had taken a husband, a man she loved deeply, and together they brought a child into the world—a child that now stands before us."

Eirlys, standing just to the side, cradles Haraldr in her arms, her eyes distant for a moment, as though lost in the painful memories of that time. Odin's words, heavy with sorrow, seem to hang in the air like a storm cloud.

Loki's usually sharp demeanor softens, his lips pressed into a thin line. "A husband?" His voice holds an undercurrent of disbelief, as if struggling to reconcile the idea of his sister living a life so different from their own.

Odin turns his gaze towards his sons, his eyes deep with the knowledge of all that has been lost. "Yes, a husband. But there was a darkness in Midgard—a dark wizard who sought to bring ruin upon them all. This wizard, Voldemort, slaughtered her husband in cold blood. And worse still, he sought to do the same to Eirlys and her child."

Thor's fist clenches at his side, his blue eyes darkening with the anger that churns within him. "How could such evil exist? To harm a woman and her child... It is unforgivable."

Loki's face hardens as well, though there's something else there—something deeper. His eyes flick to Eirlys, who stands quietly beside him, a silent strength emanating from her. He can see the pain in her eyes, the sorrow she has carried for years. It stirs something in him that he has not felt for a long time—regret, and the shadow of remorse.

"Voldemort," Loki mutters under his breath, his mind already racing at the thought of such a malevolent force. "And he took her husband... that is unforgivable."

Eirlys, with Haraldr still cradled in her arms, lets out a soft sigh, her voice tinged with the pain of lost years. "My husband was not just a man of power. He was a prankster—much like yourself, Loki," she says, a faint smile curling at the corners of her lips, though it is one laced with sorrow.

Loki's brow furrows at the unexpected comparison. He gives her a long, searching look, his lips curling into a wry smile, but it is shadowed by the somberness of the moment. "A prankster, you say?" he says with a small chuckle, though it is tinged with sadness. "I suppose he had good taste, then."

Eirlys's smile widens, though the grief is never far from her features. "His name was James," she says softly, her voice breaking just slightly as she speaks. "James Potter. He was kind, clever, and brought so much joy into my life. You were his patron god, him and his friends worshipped you."

Loki's eyes soften, the recognition of the name landing with a quiet thud in his chest. He steps closer to her, his hand resting lightly on her shoulder in a rare gesture of solidarity. "James," he murmurs. "I can almost hear him laughing now. Mischief, I presume, was in his very soul."

Eirlys nods, her tears welling up as she thinks of her lost love. "He was the light of my life," she whispers, her voice cracking. "And now he's gone, taken from us by that dark force."

Loki's expression shifts, and for a moment, his usual wit falters. He closes his eyes briefly, as though to shield himself from the weight of her grief. "I'm... I'm sorry, Eirlys. Truly, I am," he says softly, his voice tinged with sincerity and regret. "I wish there was more that I could have done."

Thor, who has been listening quietly, steps forward now, his broad frame filling the space between them. He looks down at Haraldr, the infant who seems to hold the weight of so much history in his small form. "This child," he says gently, looking up at Eirlys, "he is your son. Our nephew. And he will not grow up in a world without protection."

Eirlys's heart swells with gratitude at her brothers' words. She meets their eyes, her own tear-filled gaze steady and resolute. "Thank you, Thor," she says, her voice filled with conviction. "Haraldr will know his uncles, and he will know that he is loved. Despite everything, he will not suffer."

Odin watches all of this in silence, his expression pained but proud. He has seen his children at their worst, but also at their best. And now, as they stand together in the presence of family, he can feel the fragile thread of hope that connects them all. It is in moments like this, when the past is forgiven and the future is rebuilt, that he knows they can heal, together.

"My children," Odin says, his voice cracking with emotion, "I have failed you all in many ways. But now, in this moment, I hope we can begin to make things right. Eirlys has returned to us, and with her, our family can finally be whole again."

Thor, his hand still resting on Eirlys's shoulder, looks at his father with a newfound respect. "We are together now, Father," he says, his voice strong and filled with purpose. "And we will face whatever comes, united."

Loki, too, nods, though his expression is more contemplative. "Yes," he says quietly. "It seems we are bound by something stronger than blood. Family."

Eirlys, her heart full of a mixture of sorrow and hope, looks at her brothers, her hands still clutching Haraldr close to her chest. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice barely audible but filled with a deep, heartfelt gratitude. "For everything."

—

Thor sensed the heavy atmosphere hanging in the air, and while his heart was full of sympathy for his sister, a playful glint began to twinkle in his eye. He leaned back in his seat, his voice light but full of warmth.

"Well, well," Thor began with a hearty chuckle, turning his attention to Loki. "It seems you may have been James' favorite brother-in-law after all." He leaned forward, his grin widening. "But fear not, brother," he continued with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "I'll make sure to be Haraldr's favorite uncle."

Loki's lips curled slightly at the jest, his posture remaining graceful yet tinged with the familiar mischievousness that defined him. "Is that a challenge, brother?" His voice was full of playful intrigue, a challenge implied in his words as his dark eyes flicked to Thor's.

Thor's laughter boomed around the room as he gave Loki a firm but friendly pat on the back. "Consider it a friendly competition," he said with mock seriousness, his booming voice softened by a teasing tone. "May the best uncle win!"

Eirlys, watching the brothers' banter unfold before her, felt a soft laugh bubble from her chest, the first true moment of levity she had had since returning to Asgard. Her heart swelled with a sense of peace, watching the two of them—her brothers—bicker like children, despite the underlying heaviness that had brought them together. She smiled warmly at Thor's jest, her eyes glistening with a mix of humor and affection.

"You may be right, Thor," she said with a soft chuckle, her voice a tender melody in the quiet room. "But I believe Loki may have a head start in winning Haraldr's favor."

Thor's grin faltered slightly as he raised an eyebrow in mock disbelief. "Oh? What makes you think that?" he asked, leaning forward with genuine curiosity.

Eirlys's smile widened, the warmth of her love for her son evident in every word. "You see," she began, her voice soft yet full of a knowing humor, "I was reborn into the mortal world as Lily Evans, who was a witch. James was a wizard, and our son, Haraldr, inherited our magical abilities." Her gaze flickered to Loki as her voice took on a playful tone. "So, it's quite possible that you and Haraldr might have a bit of a magical bond."

Thor's eyes widened, his mind catching up with the implications of Eirlys's words. He burst out laughing, shaking his head in disbelief. "Ah, I see! That does make sense," he boomed, nodding in understanding. "Loki teaching Haraldr magic would indeed forge a special bond between them." His face lit up with a mix of pride and excitement. "I'll have to be the uncle who brings the brawn, then. You two can do the magic tricks." His grin was playful, but there was warmth in his voice.

Loki, who had remained quietly listening to Eirlys's explanation, allowed a sly smile to cross his features as he imagined the possibility. His eyes gleamed with enthusiasm, his usually calm demeanor betraying a flicker of excitement. "I would be absolutely delighted to teach Haraldr the ways of magic," he said, his voice smooth and full of promise. "It is a fascinating art, one that requires discipline, patience, and wit."

Eirlys watched the two brothers interact with such a deep sense of appreciation, her heart swelling with both pride and gratitude. There was so much love in their exchange, and she could already envision the bond they would share with her son. Her smile softened, and her voice was gentle but full of emotion.

"Thank you, Thor," she said, her words flowing like a warm breeze. "Thank you, Loki. Your support means everything to me—and to Haraldr." She paused for a moment, looking between the two of them, her eyes shining with gratitude. "He will grow up surrounded by love and magic, with both of you as his uncles."

Loki's gaze softened, the faintest trace of emotion flashing behind his usually guarded eyes. "He's lucky," he murmured, almost to himself. "He has two of the finest uncles Asgard could ask for."

Thor, ever the bold optimist, clapped his hands together. "Indeed! And with that, we will ensure that Haraldr never knows a dull day in his life!" He stood and stretched, his broad shoulders looming like a mountain. "Now, let's see if we can teach him how to wield a hammer!" His voice was filled with his usual boisterous energy.

Eirlys laughed softly, her smile lingering as she watched her brothers, her heart brimming with love. This was her family—unpredictable, full of heart, and fiercely loyal. And her son, Haraldr, would grow up surrounded by the very best of them.

As the laughter settled and the camaraderie wrapped them all in its warmth, Eirlys knew that despite the trials they had all faced, they would stand together, a united family—ready for whatever challenges the future might hold.

—

Eirlys stood quietly, her mind heavy with worry for her friends on Midgard. The warmth of Asgard, the light of her family, did little to ease the gnawing concern in her heart. Her eyes found Odin, the Allfather, sitting regally on his throne, his gaze distant yet filled with the wisdom of ages. She approached him cautiously, the weight of her request pressing heavily on her shoulders.

"Father," she began softly, her voice betraying the concern that had taken root deep within her. "Could you ask Heimdall to check on some people for me? Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and the Longbottom Family. I fear for their safety, especially with Voldemort's followers still at large."

Odin's piercing gaze met hers, his face softening as he sensed the gravity of her request. His voice, rich and commanding, resonated with understanding. "Of course, my daughter," he said, his words calm but filled with the gravitas of a ruler who understood the weight of such concerns. "I will speak with Heimdall. You have my word that I will ensure your friends' safety is looked after."

Eirlys's eyes shimmered with gratitude, the tightness in her chest loosening slightly at Odin's promise. "Thank you, Father," she murmured, her voice a tender echo of her love for him. "It means everything to me."

Before Odin could give the order to one of the guards, the sound of heavy boots echoed through the hall. Heimdall, the ever-watchful sentry of Asgard, stepped into the room, his dark gaze sharp and unwavering. His presence seemed to fill the space, and despite his usual stoic demeanor, there was a sense of urgency in his stride.

"My lady," Heimdall addressed Eirlys directly, his deep voice resonating with the authority of one who had seen much and understood the value of vigilance. "There is no need to worry. I have already been keeping a watchful eye on your friends."

Eirlys's breath caught in her throat as her heart skipped a beat. Her eyes widened in surprise, her voice barely more than a whisper. "You have?" she asked, the relief flooding through her, a weight she hadn't known she was carrying finally lifting.

Heimdall nodded solemnly, his gaze never leaving hers. "Yes, my lady," he said, his tone unshakable. "I have been vigilant in my watch over them, and I have seen all that transpires on Midgard."

Her heart swelled with gratitude, but the moment of relief was short-lived as Heimdall's next words sliced through her like a blade.

"Sirius Black," Heimdall continued, his voice taking on a darker edge, "has been sent to Azkaban. He has been falsely accused and unjustly imprisoned."

Eirlys's face paled, her hands trembling as the shock of the news hit her. "Sirius..." she whispered, barely able to form the words. "Sent to Azkaban? But he's innocent..."

Heimdall's expression was filled with sympathy as he met her gaze, his own sorrow evident. "Yes, my lady," he confirmed. "It is an injustice that weighs heavily on my heart, and I know it does on yours as well."

Eirlys felt her heart break for Sirius. He was her friend, her ally. The thought of him imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit filled her with a rage she barely knew how to control. Her mind spun as she tried to grasp the full extent of the situation.

"And the Longbottoms?" she asked, her voice shaking with worry, "What of them?"

Heimdall's gaze darkened further, his voice lowering with foreboding. "The Longbottoms are in grave danger," he replied, his words heavy with the weight of their truth. "Voldemort's followers are closing in on them. They seek to silence those who oppose him."

A cold shiver ran down Eirlys's spine as the implications of Heimdall's words sank in. The Longbottoms were strong, but even they could not withstand the full force of Voldemort's wrath alone. Fear clawed at her chest as she considered the risks they faced.

Eirlys stood tall despite the overwhelming emotion inside her. Her voice, though soft, was resolute. "We must act," she declared, the fire of determination igniting in her heart. "We cannot stand idly by while the lives of the innocent are threatened."

Heimdall's expression softened, his respect for Eirlys's strength evident. "Indeed," he agreed. "We must act swiftly."

Before they could continue, Thor and Loki stepped forward, their faces set with the same resolve that Eirlys felt in her heart. Thor, ever the boisterous and bold protector, grinned and slammed a fist against his chest.

"We're with you, sister!" he boomed, his deep voice carrying through the room like the rumble of thunder. "Injustice will not stand!"

Loki, with his sharp wit and quiet intensity, raised an eyebrow but nodded with equal determination. "Indeed," he said, his voice smooth and cold with purpose. "We will do whatever it takes to ensure the safety of your friends."

Eirlys's heart swelled with pride and gratitude for her brothers. Their support was unwavering, their loyalty as fierce as ever. She took a breath, steadying herself before speaking again, her voice full of emotion.

"Thank you, Thor, Loki," she said, her words soft but filled with immense appreciation. "Your aid means more to me than words can express."

Loki, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of curiosity and amusement, tilted his head slightly. "But, sister," he said, a mischievous glint in his eye, "which of these mortals is the one I am the patron god of?"

Eirlys's gaze softened, the sadness of the situation momentarily replaced by a flicker of warmth. "It is Sirius Black," she said quietly, her voice tinged with melancholy. "He has always admired your cunning, your resilience, even in the face of adversity."

Loki's eyes widened slightly in surprise. The revelation settled into him, and his grin grew, though it was tinged with something deeper than mischief. "Sirius Black, is it?" he mused, his voice filled with an edge of both humor and resolve. "Then it is time for Sirius Black to meet his God."

A fire sparked in Eirlys's chest as she met Loki's gaze. Her brothers, her family, stood ready to do whatever it took. Their bonds were unbreakable, and together, they would not allow these injustices to stand.

"Thank you," she whispered once more, her voice full of gratitude and resolve.

Thor, raising his hammer high, bellowed, "To Asgard!"

Eirlys raised her head with a fierce smile. "To justice!"

And with that, they set their sights on the battle ahead. The weight of the world would not rest on their shoulders alone. Together, they would protect the innocent, defy the unjust, and fight for the ones they loved—no matter the cost.

—

Thor stood tall, his posture commanding, his broad shoulders squared as he turned toward the great hall where Sif and the Warriors Three gathered. His hammer Mjolnir hung at his side, crackling with the promise of battle. The firelight from the torches flickered across his face, highlighting his expression of unshakable resolve.

"Sif! Warriors Three!" he called, his voice booming through the vast chambers. The air seemed to vibrate with the power of his words. "We have a mission to undertake, a quest for justice and redemption. Will you stand with us?"

Sif was the first to step forward, her boots echoing with purpose as she crossed the stone floor. She stood tall, her dark hair falling like a cascade of shadows over her armor. Her eyes, though always hard and ready for battle, now softened with loyalty and unwavering support. "Always, my friend," she answered, her voice firm and steadfast, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword. "Where you go, I go."

The Warriors Three, standing shoulder to shoulder, nodded with the same unbreakable resolve that defined them. Volstagg, his ever-present belly rumbling with laughter, placed a hand over his heart, his booming voice filling the hall. "We stand ready to fight by your side, Thor. Whether it's to challenge the very heavens or battle demons below, we are with you."

Hogun, as ever, remained stoic, his dark eyes unwavering as he met Thor's gaze. His voice was calm, but there was no mistaking the strength in his words. "It will be done, my friend. There is no enemy too great that we cannot face together."

Fandral flashed a roguish grin, the glint of excitement dancing in his eyes. "Oh, you can count on me. A little chaos, a bit of danger… just the way I like it. Let's not waste time talking—let's show them what it means to face the might of Asgard!"

Thor's heart swelled with pride at his companions' fierce loyalty. He nodded approvingly. "Then it is settled. Together, we will bring justice to Midgard and ensure that the Longbottoms are safe from Voldemort's grasp."

As Thor turned toward Eirlys, a sense of warmth washed over him at the sight of his sister, her eyes steady with determination, her shoulders squared with unspoken resolve. He smiled at her, his voice softening just for her. "Fear not, Eirlys. We will not fail. The Longbottoms will be saved. And Sirius will be free."

Eirlys nodded, her own heart swelling with gratitude, her eyes glittering with both concern and hope. "I know, Thor. With you by their side, I believe they have a fighting chance. I will be here, waiting for news. But know that my thoughts go with you all."

Loki, leaning against the grand pillars of the hall, had been quietly observing his brother's speech. He allowed the sound of his family's resolve to wash over him before a smirk curled his lips.

"Ah, how touching," Loki remarked, his voice smooth like silk, yet with a subtle edge of mischief. He stepped forward, his dark hair falling just so across his forehead as he looked at Eirlys, the usual spark of trouble in his eyes. "But while Thor and the mighty Warriors Three are off playing the valiant knights, I believe I shall take a more… personal approach to the matter of Sirius Black."

Eirlys raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching into a small smile at her brother's words. "You're not going to do anything reckless, are you, Loki?" she asked, her voice filled with a blend of fond exasperation and concern.

Loki's grin only widened as he straightened, his dark eyes gleaming with both humor and a trace of deadly seriousness. "Reckless? Me? Never," he replied, his voice dripping with feigned innocence. "I am merely going to ensure that the chains that bind him to Azkaban are shattered. After all, it would be such a shame if your patron god did not intervene on behalf of one of his most devoted admirers."

Eirlys couldn't help but laugh softly, though there was a flicker of unease behind her eyes. "Just don't burn the whole place down, alright?"

"Oh, no promises," Loki teased, winking at her before turning his gaze toward Thor. "But I trust the good Warriors Three will handle any other business that comes their way. I'll handle the prison."

Thor gave his brother a long, appraising look, eyes narrowing slightly, but there was no denying the unspoken understanding between them. They had both walked a difficult path, yet they both trusted the other to do what was necessary.

"Be quick, Loki," Thor rumbled, his voice steady. "But remember, you are not above causing a war in your wake."

Loki tilted his head, his smile never faltering. "Oh, Thor. What is the fun in causing havoc if there is no war to follow?"

With a flash of green, Loki vanished in a swirl of magic, leaving behind only the faintest echo of his laughter.

Volstagg raised an eyebrow, shaking his head. "I'll wager he'll set fire to something along the way."

Sif chuckled, her lips curving into a rare smile. "You may be right, Volstagg, but I suppose it would be too much to ask him to stay out of trouble for once."

Hogun remained silent, but his faint smirk betrayed his amusement at the exchange.

Thor threw back his head and laughed, the sound booming throughout the hall like the crack of thunder. "We shall see, my friends. But for now, we have a mission. To Midgard!"

Eirlys turned to her brother, offering a final smile. "Go well, Thor. And may the winds of Asgard guide your steps."

With that, the company of heroes departed, their resolve set and their purpose clear. Each of them carried their mission with the weight of justice and the desire to protect those who could not protect themselves.

As the gates of Asgard closed behind them, Eirlys stood tall, her heart full of both pride and worry for the future, knowing that no matter the odds, her family would always stand united in the face of adversity.

---

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