Goddess of War

The cold wind passed through Kratos' assyrian beard, as he brought down another Draugr-Ghoul.

Kratos noticed a Draugr-Ghoul charging straight at him.

" I got this one! " yelled Calliope, as she jumped over her father's back. Out of thin air appeared a spartan spear, which Calliope used to kill the Draugr-Ghoul with. The spear vanished as the battle was won.

" They are getting closer… " said Kratos, as they weren't that far away from home.

" Ada! "

Kratos looked and beheld his beloved daughter.

Calliope has grown into a beautiful young woman. With her swan skin, and swan strength. hazel colored hair. Brown bright eyes. Lovely lips like a rose. And her fine fit physique. She also has another notable physical feature. Calliope has a red tattoo across the whole of her left arm. The tattoo represents Aphrodite Areia, who watches over her from time to time.

(If you are wondering about her ability to pull out weapons from thin air. Kratos gifted her with the Hoard of Ḫaldi. Calliope can summon forth any weapon or armor - be it mythological or mundane - forth from thin air.)

" Can we go home now? " said Brán the Brazen head with a mechanical voice, as he was just a head dangling from Kratos' hip.

Kratos made a light grunting sound, as he turned towards home. With an excited and joyful smile. Calliope jumped onto her Ada's back - Ada meaning father in Sumerian. Kratos could now be seen giving Calliope a piggyback ride.

Calliope gently wrapped her arms around Kratos' neck, as she rested her head on her arm. Kratos leaned a bit forward, so that Calliope could be a bit more comfortable.

" This is bliss, " said Brán with a smile.

Arriving at home, Calliope jumped off Kratos' back.

" Oh, damn! " exclaimed Calliope.

" What? " asked Kratos.

" We forgot breakfast! "

Kratos realized that she was right. The Draugr-Ghouls had distracted them from what they were actually doing: hunting.

Calliope grabbed hold of the bow, which appeared from thin air.

Kratos arose, as he had rested for a bit. A man of his age needed every moment of rest he could get. Kratos was about fifty. While Calliope was close to twenty-five.

" Let us go! " yelled Brán, excitedly.

These were the wintery lands of the north, so Calliope used the snow to track her prey. She had her prey in sight. It was a deer, who was grazing peacefully. Calliope got in position, with Kratos sitting by her. Kratos did not say anything, but Calliope could hear the lesson he had given her as a child.

" Steady arm. Calm breathing. Prey in sight. And then…release! "

The arrow flew, and the deer fell. Calliope skinned the deer herself, as Kratos had taught her.

Brán noticed the proud smile on Kratos' lips. For it was in that moment that Kratos realized that Calliope could take care of herself… if he was no longer around.

Breakfast was served.

A few peaceful days went by, that was when a stranger made her way towards the house.

" How did she get here? " thought Kratos, as he had used Šurpu to cast a barrier around their home, and the areas close to their home.

The woman was cloaked and hooded, but she was clearly a warrior, by the looks of her weapons and armor.

Kratos walked up to the stranger.

" Ada " said Calliope, as she walked out the house. Calliope was about to say something, but that was when she noticed the stranger.

" Ada? "

" Don't worry, Šamaḫ(beautiful one) go inside. I will join you shortly. " said Kratos with a warm fatherly smile.

Calliope hesitated, but she then did as she was told. Kratos turned to the stranger, when the door was closed.

" Who are you? " he asked.

The stranger took off her hood, and her beauty even seemed to have an affect on someone like Kratos.

" Gorgeous… " said Brán, which was an understatement.

Kratos wasn't sure, but he suspected that this heavenly beauty could only belong to a goddess. For the woman looked like Connie Nielsen dressed in viking attire.

" I thought you'd be taller " said the stranger, as she was right in Kratos' face; " but you're definitely the one. "

" I think that you have me confused with someone else. " said Kratos, calmly.

" Oh " said the stranger leaning closer to Kratos' face; " I am certain that you are the man who killed my son. "

Kratos narrowed his eyes, for he had indeed killed people.

The stranger then whispered in Kratos' ear.

" Víðarr. "

That was when Kratos realized… that this stranger was the goddess Frigg.

Kratos and Frigg jumped back, with their hands on their respective weapons.

" I was a different person then. " said Kratos, sounding sincere.

Frigg giggled.

" Does that excuse your crime? No. Your hands still have my son's blood on them. "

Kratos paused.

" No. " said Frigg, as she glared at Kratos; " an eye for an eye… a child for a child. " said Frigg, as she was looking right at the house.

Kratos rushed at Frigg, but she dodged him.

Kratos looked on in horror, as she was rushing straight at the door. The door blew up, as Calliope came charging through it. Tackling Frigg to the ground.

Frigg kicked Calliope off, and that was when she drew forth Gram. Frigg grinned as Kratos drew forth Imdugud, an ax replica of Imhullu(Marduk's storm ax.)

They went back and forth, till Frigg noticed that Calliope got back up, weapons in her hands.

" Two against one. " said Brán.

Frigg smirked.

" Three against two. "

Thunder boomed, as Meili and Trud came down like lightning. Meili wielding Mjölnir, Trud wielding Muddur. Kratos did not like these odds. He nodded at Calliope, who nodded back at him.

The two of them ran in opposite directions.

Frigg gave chase to Kratos, while Meili and Trud went after Calliope.

" Face me, coward! " yelled Frigg.

Her words did not even faze Kratos, who kept on running. He then jumped off a cliff. Frigg halted at the edge. Kratos landed on a boat. He and Frigg then saw Calliope jump from the opposite side, as Meili and Trud stopped at the edge. Kratos caught Calliope, and the two of them could be sailing down the river. They finally had a moment to breathe. Some time had passed in silence.

" Did you know them? " asked Calliope.

Kratos hesitated.

" The woman… I killed her son. "

Calliope looked surprised… while not being that surprised. Kratos had always tried to be honest with her. Even so: there are still many things of his past she knew little of.

" They are justified in wanting revenge against me… " Kratos paused for a moment; " but I can't … I can't let them kill you… you are merely caught in the crossfire. "

Calliope looked at her Ada, while Kratos was focusing on rowing. The wind wasn't that cold, and the sun was shining warmly down on them. Calliope admired the frozen wonderland. The snow lay gently on the land, while the ice made everything sparkle. She put her hand in the water, and the fish came to examine it. While growing up. All she had ever known were their home and the surrounding forest. So all this was rather new and exciting. The scenery made her forget their troubles, till the boat landed on shore. Kratos pulled the boat on shore, as Calliope jumped off.

" What now? " she asked.

" We find food and shelter, " said Kratos.

Calliope was mesmerized by the aurora borealis in the night sky. The extraordinary event shone within her eyes. Her chin resting on her drawn up knees, while Kratos was making the meal. He was actually quite the cook, which is not surprising considering that diet and fitness go hand-in-hand - and in some ways; the diet is more important than the fitness. Calliope has always loved her Ada's meals. And today, he had made her favorite. She shook with excitement, as the hot food entered her stomach. She then despaired as her bowl was empty. Calliope looked at Kratos with those puss-in-boots-eyes, as she held out her empty bowl. Kratos sighed smilingly, as he gave her a refill. The morning sun kissed Calliope's cheek lovingly. She opened her eyes, and then slowly sat up, while rubbing her face. She looked around and that was when cold horror filled her heart. Kratos was gone. Calliope startled, like a prey spotting its predator.

" Had they taken Ada while I slept? " she thought to herself.

Before Calliope could do anything else. She heard:

" Good morning. "

It was Brán.

Calliope grabbed hold of the head.

" Ada, where is he?! " she exclaimed.

" He… is… getting breakfast… " uttered Brán, as Calliope was accidently applying too much pressure. Calliope's body relaxed, and with her: her grip.

" Why did he not wake me…? " she said to the wind.

" You were sleeping so peacefully, he did not wish to disturb it. " said Brán.

A faint smile appeared on Calliope's face.

" Always so considered… "

Calliope jumped to her feet. Brán was hanging from her hip. She then decided to "hunt" for her Ada. Calliope planned on using everything she knew, everything he had taught her, to track Kratos down.

Calliope knelt down at the human-foot-shaped track. She noticed the way the crushed twigs and grass were pointing.

" That shows which direction the prey took. " said Kratos from the past, as Calliope was reliving that memory.

" But " said little Calliope; " are you sure that we will find it? "

" That is entirely up to you. " said Kratos with a smile.

" Me? "

Kratos nodded.

Calliope looked down at the track.

" Which animal are you tracking? " said Kratos, as he knelt down by her.

Calliope leaned so close to the track; that she could positivitily smell it.

" Deer. "

Kratos paused.

" Boar? "

Kratos looked at her.

" Elk! "

" You're trying too hard " said Kratos with a calm and patient smile; " have some faith in yourself. "

Calliope looked now with a calm mind.

" Boar. "

" You sure? "

" I am. "

Kratos smiled.

Present Calliope smiled as well, as Kratos made a delicious meal from the boar she had killed. She smiled once more, as she had arrived where all the tracks ended. Her smile quickly turned to horror, as she noticed the aftermath of a battle. She noticed the broken trees. The blown up ground.

Calliope fell on her knees. She whipped away the snow and found Imdugud.

" Oh no… " uttered Brán.

" Ada… " said Calliope in horror, for she realized that Kratos had been captured by Frigg.

The scene changes to one, where Kratos is chained up within the Hall of the Fallen.

Frigg knelt down before the warrior, and Kratos looked up at her with glaring eyes.

" You will pay " said Frigg; " and it will be slow and sweet. "

" What of the girl? " asked Meili.

Frigg paused for a moment.

" Find her. "

Kratos had a worried look on his face, as Frigg stood up.

" Please… "

Frigg paused, as she turned around.

" You have me… " said Kratos with a sincere and compassionate voice; " so please… leave my daughter out of this. She is innocent. "

Frigg just looked at him.

" Bring her. "

Kratos lowered his head in defeat, but he had to ask:

" Why? "

" A child for a child " said Frigg with a grin; " and then your death. "

Trud stood up against one of the columns. She then left in disgust.

" Calliope! " exclaimed Brán with a shaking voice, as Calliope was running.

" I have to rescue Ada! "

" Do you even know where Asgard is?! "

Calliope stopped. All she had ever known was the house and the forest. The cool wind rushed through her hair. She could hear the wild game going about their day. Calliope opened her eyes and saw two jet black ravens.

" I may not know where, " said she, as Brán could hear the courage and fearlessness in her voice; " but I have to find Ada. "

Brán sighed.

" I shall help you to the best of my abilities, dear child. " said Brán, as he was no Mímir, but he was a close second.

Calliope went on her way, as the two ravens flew away. Whereupon they landed on Trud's shoulders.

" I see. " said Trud, as Huginn and Muninn gave her an update on Calliope.

" I want the two of you to help me with getting her attention. "

Calliope looked around the area where the battle had taken place.

" Nothing… it is as if he was flown away… " said Calliope, as she had no idea that Kratos was carried away on Meili's chariot, which he had borrowed from his brother.

Calliope felt discouraged. She lowered her head, as she rested her hands on her hips.

" I can't give up… "

A smile appeared on her face.

" Ada would have uprooted both Olympus and Tartarus if I was missing. "

Brán fully agreed, as he nodded.

Calliope narrowed her eyes, as she noticed a shadow getting larger from where she was standing. She quickly jumped out of the way, as something came crashing down on the spot she had stood on.

The dust settled, and Calliope could now see a large armored figure with a massive axe. The stranger was wearing a helmet in the shape of a raven. Calliope stood up, but she quickly fell back down on her ass. As another, yet similar, warrior, fell from the sky.

Calliope did not know it, but these two warrior-knights were Huginn and Muninn as Valravns. She shuddered as Muninn's red eyes glared at her from within his helmet.

" It is okay to be scared " whispered past Kratos in her ears; " fear keeps you alert. Fear keeps you alive. "

Calliope took a deep breath. She then calmly exhaled. She drew forth Imdugud, as she summoned forth a shield.

Huginn and Muninn both charged, and so did Calliope, but she quickly threw down the shield. Whereupon she threw herself on the shield, riding past Huginn and Muninn. She then kicked the shield at Huginn, where she then threw Imdugud at Muninn. Muninn dodged the axe, but that was when Calliope tackled him to the ground. Huginn came to his brother's aid. Calliope dodged his blow, and then Spartan kicked Huginn away from his weapon.

The sound of clapping could now be heard.

Calliope turned around. She then glared straight at Trud.

" If eyes could kill. " said Trud with a smile, as she held up her hands.

" Not my eyes, my fists. " said Calliope, as she walked towards Trud.

" Woah! Woah! Woah! " yelled Trud; " I am not here to fight! "

" You have a funny way of showing it. " said Calliope, as she nodded towards Huginn and Muninn.

Trud looked a bit embarrassed.

" I just wanted to see what all the hype was about… "

Calliope glared at her once more.

" I also wanted to admire your body… "

Calliope now looked at her, confused.

" My, my '' said Brán with a smile; " seems like someone is in looooooove. "

Calliope now looked at Trud with a smile.

" Really? "

Trud looked at her with a shy smile and rosy cheeks.

" You're in love with my body? "

" I also wish to know the heart and mind. " said Trud, as she walked closer.

Calliope could not deny it herself. Growing up, it was only her and Kratos, so meeting someone her own age… intrigued her, to say the least… but could it be a trick?

" I have no reason to trust you… " said Calliope, as her guard was back up again.

Trud understood, she really did. But as they say:

" The heart wants what it wants. "

" How can I gain your trust? "

Calliope looked at her.

" Help me free my Ada. "

Trud was more than willing. Not just to prove herself to Calliope, but she found the whole thing revolting. She understood where her grandmother was coming from… but Víðarr would never have wanted any of this, especially in his name. But as they say:

" A grieving mother can not be reasoned with. "

The two of them now made their way towards Asgard. There were some obstacles though. The wall around Asgard, Jörmungandr. And the guard dog of Asgard, Fenrir.

Trud approached, as Fenrir and Jörmungandr made themselves known.

" How may we be of service? " said Jörmungandr with a smile.

Trud smiled.

" I just wanted to give the two of you some well-deserved headpats. "

The two brothers looked at each other. Fenrir shrunk in size, as Jörmungandr transformed into his cat-form.

Calliope ran, as both brothers were purring blissfully.

" Where do I go? " said Calliope, as she was looking in all directions.

" Just a guess " said Brán; " but how about that massive longhouse over there. "

Calliope kicked the doors open.

" Ada… " said Calliope with damp eyes, as Kratos lay on the floor, without any chains.

Before Brán could say: " suspicious. " Calliope was already by her father's side. She was gently lifting Kratos up. He slowly opened his eyes. He smiled.

" Calliope- "

Blood landed on Calliope's face. She saw Gram sticking out from Kratos' chest.

Speechless, Calliope helped her Ada gently to the floor.

While looking on. Frigg recalled a conversation she had had with Kratos.

" What do you believe in? " she had asked.

With a grin, he answered:

" I only believe in one thing... I believe in her. "

Frigg had used Hlidskjalf, so she knew that Calliope was coming(it was also thanks to Hlidskjalf that Frigg found Kratos and Calliope in the first place.)

" I will make you proud... " said Calliope, as tears ran down her face, while holding Kratos' right hand to her cheek.

With a smile, as these were his last words alive, Kratos said:

" Dear child... I am already proud. "

Frigg had not mentioned the other thing which Kratos had said, when she said that Calliope was not his child by blood.

" She sees me as her father. And for me; that is enough. "

Being dead. Kratos' blue Ashur tattoo transferred itself over to Calliope's right arm. Bits of the red and blue tattoos came together in the middle of her collarbone. Forming an omega symbol - half blue and half red.

With eyes red from crying. Calliope glared at Frigg.

" The cycle continues. " said Frigg with a smile, right before Calliope charged at her like a berserker fueled by spartan rage.

Trud looked on as the Great Hall collapsed from the fury of Calliope, which she had inherited from her biological father.

Frigg came flying out from the rubble. A footprint visible on her chestplate.

" Such destructive rage… " said Frigg, impressed, as she was struggling to breathe; " Hel truly has a fury. "

Calliope was walking towards her, hot steam coming off her body, as she had Kratos' deadly glare on her face - like father, like daughter.

Trud was about to stop her, but Meili stopped her. This is what Frigg wanted, for the cycle to continue.

Frigg was laying on the ground, Calliope sitting on her chest.

Brán said nothing, when Calliope held Imdugud high in the air, the sun gleaming off the ax.

Frigg looked at her, cold.

A single snowflake landed on Calliope's cheek.

A memory flashed, which forced Calliope to miss.

Frigg looked at her own reflection in the ax. She then looked on, confused, as Calliope was crying on her chest.

" Ada " said past Calliope; " why do we kill? "

" To survive. "

" Have you only killed to survive? "

Kratos cleared his throat.

" No… I once killed those who were not deserving of being killed. "

Kratos looked at Calliope's innocent eyes. He then saw a snowflake land on her cheek. He smiled, and then knelt down before her. Kratos calmly put his hands on her tiny shoulders.

" I teach you to kill, not as an indulgence, and certainly not as senseless killing. Kill to survive. And promise me, dear Calliope " said Kratos, as he whipped away the snowflake; " never kill for vengeance. "

" Never… " said present Calliope; " never kill for vengeance… "

Frigg just looked at her, impressed and confused.

Calliope then said, as she cleared her voice and face:

" The cycle ends here… we have to be better. "

A whisper in the air said:

" I am proud of you. "

" Ada… " said Calliope with a smile, as a few tears reappeared.

Some time later.

" Are you sure that I can't change your mind? " said Trud.

Calliope had packed her things, for she was about to leave.

" I need some time to think… for too much has happened. I need some time to recover… for I have lost a very dear father… "

Trud looked nervous, for she wished to go with her. Calliope could sense her love and concern.

She gently wrapped her arm around Trud's waist. Trud caught her sweet scent. Her hand was on Calliope's chest. She could feel her calm heartbeat. Trud looked into those eyes, the eyes of a tender lioness. Their lips met, and it was as if all time stood still.

" Be still my aching heart… " said Trud, as sweet and bitter tears ran gently down her sweet cheeks. For she loved Calliope that much, to the point where it hurt. She looked on as Calliope walked towards the sunrise.

Calliope would return, for she planned on making Trud a married woman. But, for now, along with Brán, Calliope wished to explore her Ada's homeland: Mesopotamia.

Aphrodite Areia, donned in armor and weapons, looked on from the heavens, and smiled.

Māt Aššur

Calliope left footprints behind her, as she trodden the desert. She was no longer in a land of snow and ice. She was now walking within the Land of Ashur, where endless sand and a baking sun met her. Calliope was on a mission. She intended to bring her Ada back, by using the Tablet of Time - The Tablet of Destinies. Ashur, top-dog of the Mesopotamian gods, was well-aware of Calliope's intent and presence. And he was in no mood to let this foreign goddess get her hands on the tablet: which granted Ashur his authority and kingship. But Calliope was her father's daughter. And stubbornness was the characteristic of that family.

Which is why: many trials awaited her.

She was going to face: Lilûs, Gallûs, and the Seven Kings of Virtue. Calliope was ready to face all of that, and more… if it meant bringing her Ada back. Ashur watched from atop Ekur, as Calliope made her way towards the Mesopotamian equivalent of Mount Olympus.

" What would you like to listen to? " asked Orpheus the Brazen Head, for Brán had changed program/personality. And as Orpheus: he could play music. Calliope decided to play some club music: R.I.O Megamix by R.I.O - Topic.

She stopped in her tracks, as both Lilûs - resembling: Lamashtu, and Gallûs - resembling: Humbaba, were rising from the sands. Calliope smiled, as she felt most alive when fighting - unsurprisingly; something she had inherited from her biological father. From thin air itself; came forth a spartan shield and spear. Calliope too was wearing a spartan helmet. She took up a stance. Slammed spear against shield. And with a thrilled grin she yelled:

" Molon Labe! "

King of Charity

Calliope made her way towards a nearby village. She was hoping to buy some food, for the previous skirmish left her quite hungry. She was after all: ⅔ human. Calliope entered the bustling marketplace. The people were mundane, and so were their wares. Calliope couldn't help but notice the kind and welcoming faces. The children ran about, full of energy and life. Calliope walked up to a stall, ordering some provisions. She noticed a child peeking from around the corner. Calliope smiled, and the child's heart fluttered.

" She couldn't be more than six? " Calliope thought to herself.

" Seems like she is in need of some charity. " said Orpheus.

" She is in need of help. " said Calliope, warmly.

Calliope took out some food from her bag. She knelt down. Held the food out, and waited patiently till the child came to her. The child had not taken her eyes off Calliope. She took a small step forward, and Calliope was now able to see her tattered clothes. She waited, as the child slowly approached.

" Her hesitation is a bad sign. " said Orpheus.

" What do you mean? "

" It signals that her trust has been betrayed. "

Calliope could not believe it.

" A child her age? "

Calliope had only fond memories when she was her age. Playing and training with her Ada… she could not imagine what this poor child must have been through. And that was when she noticed all the dried mud stains. The child was now a few feet away from Calliope. Calliope held the food out: inches away from the girl. The child eyed the food hungrily, for she was more bone than flesh. That was when, slowly but surely, the little girl took a piece of bread. She eyed Calliope as if asking for permission. Calliope smiled warmly, and then nodded. Shakingly, the little girl took a bite of the bread. Calliope was caught off guard, as the child started to cry.

" How long has it been since she last ate? "

" There are many like her. " said the owner of the stall.

" Why? " Calliope wanted to ask a more elaborate question. But the 'why' was all she could get out.

" It is the way of things… the way of Lugal Ahudanadih. "

Calliope paused. She was still in the midst of getting a grasp of the Mesopotamian languages.

" Lugal? "

" Mesopotamian for king. " said Orpheus.

" What did you mean, when you said: 'it is the way of Lugal Ahudanadih'? "

" It is the way of Lugal Ahudanadih: the King of Charity. He does not wish to dispense charity among the poor. "

Calliope could not wrap her head around the irony of that sentence.

" Is charity not meant for the poor and needy? "

" Define: charity. "

Calliope meditated for a moment.

" Charity: the act of selflessly giving away either food or money to those in need. "

" Can advice be counted as charity? "

Calliope hesitated.

" Can wisdom? "

Calliope paused.

" Experience? "

" No… "

" Why not? "

" You can not group advice, wisdom, or experience with food and money. "

" 'Teach a man how to fish, and he will never go hungry in his life.' "

" You must first feed the man, so that he has the strength to fish. "

The Stall Owner giggled at that.

" So I must provide both food and lessons… doesn't seem fair. "

" Thus: charity. "

" Yet… " said the Stall owner with a gleeful pause; " you just said that wisdom could not be grouped with charity. So if I feed the man, I am charitable. But if I teach him how to catch a fish, I am not? "

" No. "

The Stall Owner waited for Calliope to elaborate, for she clearly had more to say.

" Then you are kind. "

" I see. "

" But you are not kind. "

The Stall Owner paused, as Calliope had a cheeky look on her face; for she had pieced it together from his fine speech and silk garments.

" You are the King of Charity. "

Ahudanadih laughed faintly.

" Well done. "

Calliope gave the child something to drink, as she continued.

" Why the 'foreplay'? "

" I rather enjoy 'foreplay'. " said Ahudanadih with a wink and a grin.

Calliope rolled her eyes.

" You know what I mean. "

The King of Charity sighed.

" My kingdom is dying. "

" Kingdom? " said Orpheus, half-amused; " I must say; that this is a rather modest kingdom. "

" Well, " said Lugal Ahudanadih, half-amused himself; " I am the King of Charity. "

Calliope couldn't help but smile at that.

" Wait… you can't help the poor out of want or circumstances? "

The king just looked at her.

" You won't like my answer. "

Calliope threw up her hands.

" But you are their king! "

" And they: my subjects. Do I not deserve to be worshiped as a king? "

" The people come first. "

" Then the people will starve. "

Calliope couldn't believe what she was hearing.

" Then by all means: rule over a desolated kingdom. Where solitude shall be your servant, death your soldier. And loneliness: your only companion. "

Ahudanadih looked at her.

" Charity got me where I am. "

Calliope regarded him. The king had clearly been kind… and he was clearly bitter about it.

" Where is my reward? Where is my praise?! "

" That is not how charity works. "

The king grew furious at those words.

" You dare! "

Ahudanadih jumped out from his stall. Weapons drawn.

" I gave my riches for this kingdom! "

Calliope dodged his attack.

" I gave my life for these ungrateful people!! "

Calliope pushed him back with her shield.

" I asked for nothing in return!!! "

The king looked down at the child.

" Ungrateful little shit!!!! "

" NO! "

Calliope had to do it. Ahudanadih was about to kill the child. She had no choice… she had to kill the King of Charity.

Fortitude

Calliope was making her way through the desert. She was trying to gather information about the Tablet of Time. But whenever she asked; people always seemed to avoid her like the plague… was there a plague in Mesopotamia?

Calliope sat down on the hot sand, leaning against a cool rock. The rock was high enough to grant her a shade.

" Any preferences? " asked Orpheus.

Calliope lifted her chin, resting the back of her head against the rock.

" Surprise me. "

Orpheus played: Je Ne Sais Pas.

" Now that is certainly a surprise. " said Calliope with a smile. She stood up, and dusted her clothes off. She walked to the right: away from the rock's shade. There was just one problem… Calliope was still in a shade. She looked, and was now looking upon a giant of a man. The figure was the spitting image of a warrior. Herculean-build. Scars and bruises everywhere. Assyrian beard. And pretty much wielding an armory on his back.

" Hey. " said Calliope, not knowing what else to say, nor what to make of the situation.

The man simply raised a finger to his lips.

Calliope blinked twice in confusion. The man then raised his finger towards the sky. Calliope looked up, and beheld a dragon circling overhead.

" Ah. "

Calliope calmly placed a hand on Orpheus' mouth, for that is where all the music was coming from.

Calliope looked back at the man. He gestured that they hide in the nearby crevasse. They both jumped, as the dragon swopped down; missing its attack.

" So, " said Calliope, gently massaging her butt; for the fall had been a long one; " what's up? "

The man peaked out from the crevasse.

" The dragon has been terrorizing a local village. "

" And you are here to stop it? " asked Calliope, joining the man.

" No. "

" Then what? "

" I am here to kill it. "

Calliope looked at him, too tired to explain.

A gust of wind hit them both. The dragon may not be able to attack them; but it sure as hell could annoy them.

" So, " said Calliope, combing her hair with her hands; " how do we kill it? "

" Labbu. "

" What? "

" Its name is: Labbu. A warrior should know the name of its prey. "

Calliope agreed with a nod. She then had an idea.

" In exchange for my help- "

" You should feel honored helping me. "

Calliope cleared her throat.

" A favor for a fighter? "

The man giggled at that.

" What favor? " he asked.

" Tell me of Ashur and his whereabouts. "

The man looked at her, not showing any sign of emotions. He merely said:

" The Seven Kings are all loyal to him. "

Calliope smiled, as the answer was clear to her.

" Which would make you one of them. "

The man neither: agreed nor disagreed. But he conceded at last.

" Lugal Baldahdah. "

" King of Fortitude. " said Calliope, noting how physique matched title.

" Can you tell me nothing of Ashur? "

" Nothing. " Baldahdah paused; " sorry. " another pause; " are you still willing to help? "

Calliope looked up at the fearsome dragon. She remembered what Baldahdah said:

'The dragon has been terrorizing a local village.'

" His village… "

Calliope conjured forth: Typhon's Bane. She then said:

" Tonight; we shall feast on dragon meat. "

Baldahdah smiled, as he drew forth a lance.

Labbu would fall… but so would fortitude.

Cautiousness

" Be careful! " yelled Lugal Medudu.

Calliope had made her way to the kingdom of Medudu: King of Prudence. Calliope was holding a stack of clay tablets. She was in the midst of moving them to another room. She had made a deal with Medudu: she would "carefully" move the king's tablets, and in exchange: Medudu would tell her where to find Ashur.

" Why do you have so many tablets? " asked Calliope, her face against the stack of tablets she was holding.

" One can not be too careful with knowledge. I must always make copies of copies! "

Calliope beheld the "pillars" of knowledge.

" Lot of copies… "

" Never too careful!!! "

Calliope sighed smiling, as she moved on with the next stack. After a few hours had passed, she said:

" That was the last one… "

Calliope slumped down, leaning against the stack of tablets she had just put down.

" Thank you. " said Medudu, as he held a waterskin before her.

Calliope drank her fill. Then asked:

" Where is Ashur? "

King Medudu said faintly;

" A deal is a deal… You can find him atop Ekur. "

" Where is Ekur? "

Medudu smiled.

" Another question, another task. "

Calliope bumped her head against the stack behind her, making the stack rock a bit. She then got up.

" I am going to need some rest before the next 'quest'... "

Calliope left the room.

Medudu stood in the middle of the stack-of-tablets-filled-room. He beheld his work with pride. That was when the shaking stack gave way; falling on Medudu; killing the king instantly.

For the king was never prudent with his own life. He only showed prudence for his life work.

Temper, Temper

Calliope took another step, she could feel the hot sand underneath her soils, as the baking sun was behind her.

" You should take a break. " said Orpheus.

" I'm fine. " she wasn't fine at all. Calliope drank the last of her water days ago. Calliope's eyes widened, as she beheld a mirage; for the desert enjoys playing tricks on the weak and thirsty. Before Calliope stood Kratos.

" Ada… "

Kratos smiled at her.

" Calliope… " said Orpheus, as mirages had no effect on machines. Calliope narrowed her eyes, which made some of the sweat on her forehead; drip down on her eyelids. Her mind knew that it could not be real… but her heart prayed to all the gods that it was. She took a step towards Kratos. She was on this quest to bring her Ada back, and here he was: standing right in front of her. Calliope had waited months for this moment. She spread her arms, ready to give him the world's greatest hug. Calliope passed right through the mirage. She dropped to her knees. Her heart: broken, and her mind faintly saying: I told you so. Lelantos did his best to bring her some sort of comfort; by flying a cool breeze past her. It helped… a little, as Calliope's tattoos lit up; her Fire Meter having gone up. She slammed her arms on the sand; creating a pillar of sand which could be seen for miles - even Ashur saw it. Calliope was a little damp eyed, for she did not have enough water in her to cry fully.

" Temper, temper. " said a stranger.

Calliope turned towards the stranger. The stranger was a man of average height. Mild build. Round face. Black hair, and brown eyes. Calliope's eyes now made contact with the sack of water hanging from his hip.

" This? " said the stranger, nonchalantly, as he held up the sack; " you can have it. "

Calliope caught the sack thrown at her. She could feel that the water was still: very much cold. But she had to ask:

" Why? "

" You look thirsty. Need I another reason? "

Calliope still did not understand.

" What about yourself? "

" Where I am going, water is not needed. "

The man walked past her.

" At least tell me your name! "

" Tartadada. " Temperance. Tartadada smiled from underneath his scarf; " don't let your temper get the better of you now, child. You have come this far, so best save it for Ashur. "

Calliope just looked at him. She then drank all the water in one gulp.

" Wow. " said Orpheus, impressed.

Calliope wiped her mouth. She then stood up, as the wind brought another cool breeze. It helped this time, as Calliope looked towards the horizon; towards Ekur. Tartadada walked deeper into the desert. Later dying from thirst.

Faith and Justice

Calliope shivered, as the desert nights were notoriously cold.

" I told you to wear more clothes. " said Orpheus.

" I did not think it necessary to wear more clothes in a desert… "

" Rookie mistake. "

" I'll take it. " said Calliope with a smile. To her credit; she had bought more clothes than she had started with. But it was still not enough to keep her completely warm. Calliope now noticed a faint light in the distance.

" Another mirage? "

" Doubtful. Mirages are caused by the heat. " said Orpheus, as the moon was high up in the sky.

" Then what could it be? "

" Only one way of knowing. "

Calliope smiled, as she ran towards the light: the running bringing some warmth to her body. As she got closer. She saw that the light was coming from a campfire, and that two men sat around said campfire. Calliope's stomach growled, as the men were cooking some food. She hadn't had a proper meal in days. She was forced to ration what little she had. So the scent was maddening. Especially when the scent was that of a cooked chicken.

" Hi. " said Calliope, as the fire had revealed her to the two men. The men, both covered in cloth and clothes; for they were both accustomed to a life in the desert. Both just looked at her. One man picked up some cloth, he then threw it at her. Calliope caught it. Looked at him. And then said:

" Th-thank you. "

The other man then handed her some of the cooked chicken.

" Thank you. "

Both men nodded at her.

Calliope sat down and ate her fill of the chicken. She then said, after having introduced herself:

" Who are you two? "

" Memanduh. "

" Tapiš. "

Faith and Justice.

Calliope gratefully accepted the water offered to her.

" Your faith has brought you this far. " said Memanduh.

" Is it justice that you seek? " asked Tapiš.

Calliope paused.

" Faith has brought me this far, in the hopes of bringing someone dear back. And I seek justice, for that someone did not deserve the fate dealt him. "

Memanduh and Tapiš both nodded, both pleased with her answer. Calliope slept heartly that night, for she felt rather safe around Memanduh and Tapiš. But when she awoke in the morning, both men were gone.

" Where did they go? " she asked Orpheus.

" They got up a few hours ago. And just left. "

Calliope noticed that they had left some food and cloth behind.

" Thank you. '' said Calliope, hoping that the wind would carry her thanks to the two men. Memanduh and Tapiš both heard her thanks, right before they both died of hunger.

Pater

Calliope was before the gates. She looked up and beheld the mountainous castle. Ekur was a structure very similar to Petra. As in; the whole kingdom was carved out of the mighty mountain.

Calliope now beheld a man sitting by the gate - the gate which resembled: Ishtar's Gate. The stranger was an elderly man, which Calliope deduced from his gray beard, and wrinkled skin. He was wearing long white robes, which had been torn away at by time and neglect. He was wearing a turban-like-hat, but Calliope found it odd that the hat was slowly sliding off the man's head.

" Was he dead? "

Calliope walked over, and sure enough; the man was indeed dead. Calliope did not know him, but he was the last of the Seven Kings. Hurrakidu - Hope. Hope was sitting by the gate, dead, as Calliope walked up the stairs leading to heaven - literally. It was dawn when Calliope had started ascending the stairs. It was evening when the top was finally in sight. As Calliope made her way towards the middle; where the ziggurat-like-structure was located. She could not help but awe at the many statues and pictures of old: placed all around her.

She recognized the feather robed archer holding a bow. For the very same image made up part of her blue tattoo… the image was that of Ashur.

Calliope had finally done it. After months of weary traveling. She took one final step, as she had finally reached the top of the ziggurat, where Ashur was sitting on his throne, with the Tablet of Time on a pedestal situated behind him. Ashur was of a herculean build, he was - he is - the original Heracles. He had fluffy curly hair, and a fine trimmed Assyrian Beard. He wore a chestplate which had various Assyrian images and creatures carved about. He wore no other armor, for his bulky build more than made up for the missing armor pieces. Two things of note, which caught Calliope's eye. Ashur had wings: four wings in total. She also noticed that a mace(with a long handle) was floating next to him.

(She would later find out that the sledgehammer-like-mace was actually: Sharur - Smasher of Thousands.)

Ashur finally opened his eyes, as he was resting his cheek against his fist. That was when Calliope realized that Ashur actually resembled: Mousa Kraish. And Ashur saw how Calliope resembled: Millie Brady.

How Calliope, or Ashur for that matter, knew of those actors… I don't know. What I do know is; is that Ashur was not amused. For as stated previously: part of Calliope's blue tattoo was made up of Ashur's symbol.

" Do you worship me? " he asked.

Calliope had pieced it together.

" I got this tattoo from my Ada. "

" Ada? "

" An Assyrian man. "

" Funny. "

" What? "

" You don't look Assyrian. "

" Bond is thicker than blood. "

Ashur giggled.

" Where is he now? "

" I intend to bring him back. "

" So he is dead? "

" Not for long. "

" Hmmm. "

" So you intend to take my Tablet of Destinies? "

" I intend to use your tablet, not take it. "

" To bring back the dead - Ashur paused for a moment - it has never been used like that. "

" It can rewind time? "

Ashur thought back to the battle between Anzû and Ninurta; where Anzû used the tablet to rewind Ninurta's arrows back to flint and sticks.

" It can. "

" Then that is good enough. "

Calliope approached, but she was halted by Sharur slamming in front of her.

" I did not give my permission. "

" Then please grant it. "

Ashur stroked his Assyrian beard.

" I suspect… if the tablet is used to bring the dead back, or used to rewind time to the point of bringing someone back to life… then that is a one time thing. The tablet will become useless afterwards. "

Calliope looked at him in anticipation.

" The answer is: no. "

Calliope scuffed.

" What? "

" Surely; the mighty ASHUR wouldn't need a clay tablet to signify his kingship. "

Lightning flashed in Ashur's eyes.

" You overstep, child. I have given my decree. Now be gone. Foreigner. "

Calliope did not like being called a child, nor a foreigner.

" I have come too far… "

Her tattoos glowed faintly.

" I have shed too many tears… "

The blue and red omega symbol on her chest glowed a bit more brightly.

" I refuse to go back without my Ada. "

Ashur looked on, as Calliope summoned forth weapons from thin air.

" The Hoard of Ḫaldi… "

" I do not attack out of malice or hate… I do not wish to take your life… so please… step aside. "

Ashur smiled. He had not smiled in years.

" I did not step aside when Enki tried to take back the Tablet of Destinies. "

Sharur flew to Ashur's hand.

" I did not step aside when Ninurta tried to take back Sharur. "

Ashur rose, and Calliope saw how he was as tall as one of the pillars holding up the ceiling.

" And now. A foreigner. Someone who does not have enough divinity to be called: a demi-god. Has come to my kingdom. MY LAND. To take my symbol of kingship, so that she may bring back her beloved Ada. "

Ashur was towering over Calliope, casting an engulfing shadow over her.

" Don't presume, child. "

" Well… " said Calliope with a calm smile; " what happens next… is on you. "

Ashur slammed down Sharur. The force of the blow vibrated down the entire mountain. Calliope was able to dodge the attack, by sliding through Ashur's legs: yeah, he is that big!

Ashur cried out, as Calliope had run her Lion Hunt dagger through his thigh. And that was when Orpheus started blasting: Crosswind - Aeons.

Calliope summoned forth a shield, as Ashur kicked her back. Calliope crashed into the throne. A shadow engulfed her once more, as Ashur was about to slam down Sharur. Calliope quickly summoned forth Ajax's shield. Sharur made contact with the shield, and the ground under Calliope cracked. But she was okay: she was tough like that. It was now Calliope's turn to kick, as she sendt Ashur flying with a Spartan Kick to the stomach.

Ashur got back up, fury burning brightly in his eyes. He charged at Calliope, and she answered in kind. As they were mere inches away from one another. Calliope summoned forth The Nemean Cestus. Punching Ashur straight into the adjacent wall. Ashur slowly opened his eyes, to see that Calliope was holding up the Severed Head of Helios before his eyes.

" Feel the power of the sun! "

Helios' Head went off like a flashbang.

Blinded, Ashur managed to find his way towards his throne. His now sharp hearing caught a: clang sound, as the bottom of Calliope's Trident of Triam hit the floor.

" Surrender. "

Ashur giggled.

" Never. "

His sight had returned. Ashur gripped tightly around Sharur's hilt. He charged desperately, with a smile on his face. For like Spartans: Assyrians would rather die than surrender; and Ashur was the God of the Assyrians.

Calliope understood, which is why she finished it; by throwing the trident, with all her might! Straight into Ashur's chest. Ashur staggered back. He fell on his throne… and then breathed his last.

" αἰωνία ἡ μνήμη. " said Calliope, as she closed Ashur's eyelids. As was her right, and as Ashur would have wanted; Calliope added Sharur to her arsenal.

" My lady. " said Sharur.

Calliope just looked at the talking weapon. Sharur could talk, and do many other things. Calliope simply replied with:

" My mace. "

She put Sharur in a sheath on her back. And with a throbbing heart, sweating palms, and fast breathing. Calliope approached the Tablet of Destinies. The tablet glowed as she touched it.

Calliope simply said:

" Father. "

A blinding light engulfed the room. The tablet crumbled away, but Calliope could sense that her wish had been granted. She turned around with a smile. Her smile quickly vanished, as she said:

" Pater… "

" Calliope… " said a Terrence C. Carson sounding Kratos, as the Tablet of Destinies had brought back Calliope's biological father.

Calliope Saga

The snow broke under Calliope's foot, leaving behind a print. The cold wind greeted her gently, as she was back in Scandinavia. But Calliope had brought someone back with her.

" So this is where you grew up? " said Terrence-C.-Carson-Kratos. For Calliope had brought back her biological father, and not her adopted father… whom she missed dearly…

" Mhmm. " that has been Calliope's answer to all Kratos' questions… it wasn't personal; she just blames herself for having failed her original mission. For she had fully intended to bring back her adopted father, not her biological father.

" What went wrong? " asked Calliope herself for the hundredth time.

" You must hate me. "

Calliope turned to look at him.

" No. "

" Your mouth says one thing - Kratos sighed - your eyes another. "

Calliope lowered her head, looking at the snow-covered-earth.

" Who was he? "

Calliope looked up at him.

" He was very much like you - Calliope smiled - a lot like you. "

Kratos smiled faintly - something I was certain I would never live to see. Kratos reached for something behind his back.

" I have something for you. "

Calliope raised her gaze, and her breath left her for a second. Kratos was holding her blue ribbon necklace - the necklace from God of War: Ascension.

" You had it this whole time? "

" Always. " said Kratos with a smile; " may I? "

Calliope accented by turning around, and lifting her hair. Kratos gently put the necklace on.

" You look beautiful… " said Kratos with faint damp eyes, for this Kratos had never believed that he would be reunited with his daughter - let alone an adult version of her. Calliope touched the necklace, which went rather well with her blue and red omega symbol in the middle of her chest.

" Thank you. "

Kratos bowed his head, for words seemed to fail him. Calliope could see that he wanted to say something.

" What is it? "

Kratos truly seemed to struggle. He had battled and killed both Heracles and Cronos… but these words prove to be a whole other challenge.

" May I stay? " he asked.

Calliope looked at him, surprised at his shaking voice.

" I know that I have no right… " Kratos paused, for the memories he was reliving were quite painful; " I was the cause of your death… you and your mother… "

Calliope herself was shaking, she had never seen her father like this. Kratos had always shown emotions around her, but never at this level…

" Pater… "

Kratos sobbed.

" Hearing you calling me that again… I never thought… "

Calliope placed a hand on his ashened skin.

" Of course. " she said.

Kratos looked at her.

" Of course you can stay. " Calliope smiled a daughter's smile: a smile which could melt any father's heart; " pater. "

Calliope rested her forehead on Kratos' shoulder, as he was doing his damndest to keep up the tough exterior.

" Maybe there was a reason why he was brought back? " But Calliope still cried, for she would never see her adopted father again: the man who had raised her, and cared for her as if she was his own… both she and Assyrian Kratos belonged to different afterlives.

" My, my. " said a female voice; " never in a million years did I imagine seeing KRATOS… weeping. "

Both Calliope and Kratos turned towards the voice, to see Aphrodite Areia leaning up against a tree. - her arms folded. Dressed in warrior attire. With an array of weapons on her person.

Kratos looked at her, his tough exterior firmly back up. He couldn't help but notice that Aphrodite resembled Angie Karantoni.

" Aura! - Calliope's nickname - it is good to see you! " said Aphrodite, as she approached with open arms. Kratos stepped in front of her.

" Hello, Kratos. " said Aphrodite, seductively, as she gently ran a hand up his bare chest: for this Kratos looked like he was straight out of God of War III; " I have always wondered… Why did you spare me? "

Kratos remained quiet, as he just looked down at her. A playful smile appeared on Aphrodite's lips.

" If you want… " said she, as she ran her hand downwards; " we could… "

" Ew! " exclaimed Calliope from behind. Snapping back to reality; Kratos grabbed Aphrodite's hand.

" No. "

" Shame. Really. " Aphrodite leaned close towards Kratos' face. So close that he could smell her sweet fragrant; " I would have enjoyed 'battling' with the God of War… my bedchamber would have been one helluva 'battlefield'. "

Calliope walked past them, hands to her ears.

The walk ahead was a peaceful one, as Ratatoskr nippled on an acorn from the branch of a tree. Huginn and Muninn looked on: curiously. And Hyndla(Fenrir) kept a close watch from behind some bushes.

" Quite the welcome. " said Aphrodite, as all three were well-aware of being watched.

" They are weary. " said Kratos.

" For good reason. "

Kratos turned towards her.

" What do you mean? "

Aphrodite grew a bit quiet, as she looked upon Calliope walking ahead.

" Too many have died… they have had enough of death. "

Kratos just looked ahead. He could not see her face… but he knew that Calliope had a sad look on her face… the memories all coming back.

They halted.

Ahead stood Frigg.

" Goddess. " said Calliope.

" Girl. " said the goddess who very much resembled Connie Nielsen.

Kratos looked at Aphrodite, sensing the tension in the air.

" She killed her adopted father. " said Aphrodite, pointing at Frigg.

Kratos turned towards Frigg.

" She was the cause of Calliope's grief. "

Kratos was now walking towards Frigg.

Aphrodite fully expected Calliope to stop him. Imagine her surprise when Calliope did nothing, as Kratos simply kept on walking. But he quickly halted, as Meili stood in his way. Kratos looked up at Meili, just like how Christopher-Judge-Kratos looked up at Ben-Prendergast-Týr. Or: just like how Terrence-C.-Carson-Kratos looked up at Kevin-Sorbo-Hercules. Meili, resembling Alexander Skarsgård both in height and appearance, had his Molniya hammer and Mammen Axe at the ready, as Kratos drew forth his: Blades of Chaos. But Calliope finally did what Aphrodite knew she would… she intervened… for she had had enough of all the bloodshed.

" Pater… " said Calliope, gently, as she took hold of Kratos' right hand; " please… "

Kratos made a low 'hmm' sound. He then put away his weapons, for no father could ever refuse his daughter; especially when said daughter asked as sweetly as Calliope had. Meili too put away his weapons… he had hoped for such an outcome.

Aphrodite heard a purring sound around her legs. She looked down to say:

" Hello. "

There was Jörmungandr, in his feline-form, lovingly rubbing his head against her legs.

Aphrodite picked up the cat, and Jörmungandr was now lovingly rubbing his head against her face. Aphrodite just massaged him, while humming to herself.

" Come on! " yelled Calliope, as everyone else were making their way towards Valhal.

They walked past Tobias-Santelmann-looking-Heimdall. And after having walked a bit further: the group had now reached the many-doored-hall. Calliope had not taken in the hall's beauty the first time she was there, but now: she took it all in. The mighty columns. The many long tables. And the large and bright fireplace in the middle. Frigg sat down on the high seat: which enabled one to see throughout the nine worlds, while everyone else sat down on the: not-so-special-seats. Food was brought out, while mead too was passed around. Everyone ate heartily, even Kratos ate his fill - for Spartan warriors had one helluva appetite: just think of Elpidios. With their bellies full, came the moment to discuss politics. Looks were passed around, as everyone knew that there was no alliance. Which was why: many of them had their hands on the hilt of their respective weapons. Something had to be done. A deal had to be made. An alliance had to be forged. But what kind?

Why: the greatest broker of them all.

" A marriage alliance! '' exclaimed Meili, as he was proud of himself for coming up with such an idea.

Looks made the rounds once more.

Who was to be married?

There was really only one viable candidate…

Calliope. And to Aphrodite's great surprise, Kratos did not seem to disagree. There was only one problem… Calliope had a thing for Trud, Thor's daughter. Not that the Æsir had anything against same-sex relationship, nor marriage. It was just that: for an marriage alliance to work: a child must be produced from the union.

(Couldn't Freya just use seiðr magic to give Calliope a penis temporarily? Food for thought)

Regardless. It was settled.

" My son shall be your husband. " said Meili.

All eyes were on Calliope. She had not said a word; merely looking down at her mead.

" I am sure that both Frigg and Freya will bless the union, so that many chil- "

" Kindly stop talking. " said Calliope, as cold as the snow outside.

The whole hall fell silent. No one knowing what to say. Calliope got up, and walked towards the room granted to her within Valhal.

" It is a sound strategy. We need allies." said Sharur.

" What am I to do… "

" Calliope… " said Orpheus.

" You can refuse. " said Kratos, as he entered the room.

" Sharur is right… We need allies. "

" Latria mu(my adored). " said Kratos, as he lifted up her face by her chin; " fos ton mation mou(the light of my eyes). "

Calliope's eyes lit up when he said that.

" You, we, will do anything you desire. If you do not wish for such an alliance. Then done: it shall never be. "

Calliope lowered her face, as tears pricked in her eyes.

" We need allies… "

Kratos grabbed her by the shoulders.

" Paidi mou(my child) if you wish it: then I would be more than happy to take on all the pantheons. As long as I get to fight by your side. Together we shall stand, and together we shall fall. If that is your wish. "

Calliope just looked at her pater, her heart filling with joy over his love for her… but Calliope could also hear his willingness to die...

" I will have to think about it… " said Calliope, as she turned her back: to hide her damp eyes.

Kratos sighed smiling.

" Then I will take my leave. "

Calliope turned to look at him.

" The next room. " said Kratos, smiling.

Calliope rolled her eyes with a smile of her own.

" Wait! "

Kratos turned to face her.

" Please take the room at the end of the corridor. "

" I see. "

" It is not for the reason you think! - Calliope paused - Trud is coming over is all… "

A smirk painted Kratos' face.

" That's my girl. "

Trud was making her way towards Calliope's room. She quickly lowered her head in respect as she saw Kratos approaching.

" Sir! "

Kratos stopped to look at her. He gave her the elevator look. He then clapped her on the shoulder. Trud looked confusingly on as Kratos walked to the end of the corridor. Trud's breath left her as she entered Calliope's room. For there sat Calliope. On the bed. Cross legged. Dressed in her birthday suit. She took a piece of chocolate to her mouth, as she aphrodisiacly said:

" I was thinking that we could move right on to dessert. "

" Dessert looks goo- Trud quickly caught herself - I mean! Sounds good. "

Calliope just smiled, as she aphrodisiacly looked at Trud.

Kratos was panicking. It was the next day, and Calliope wasn't in her room; but he did find a very naked Trud underneath the blankets. Kratos ran out the hall. He looked around, unsure what to do.

" Kraa. "

Kratos looked up to see two ravens looking down at him. The ravens flew away, and Kratos thought it wise to follow them. After having cleared some distance and bushes; Kratos found himself standing in a clearing within the forest. There stood a house… and there was Calliope: standing over a grave. Kratos approached as Calliope just stood there with her hands clasped in front of her.

" Is it him? "

Calliope nodded, for words seemed to fail her.

Kratos knelt down. He got a good look at the axe resting against the tombstone. He then looked upon the grave itself.

" Thank you. " said Kratos; " thank you for taking care of her. You have raised one incredible warrior. "

Calliope giggled softly, as her eyes teared up a bit.

Father and daughter embraced, and somewhere in Kur: Assyrian Kratos could not help but smile.

We find ourselves back in Valhal, where Tunraz - Meili and Hel's son: has appeared.

" He is handsome. " thought Calliope.

Tunraz, who very much resembled: Alex Høgh Andersen, just smiled at Calliope; and Calliope could not help but notice all the love and life in his eyes.

" He is very handsome. "

" Well, " said Meili; " let us begin. "

Per Calliope's request, but to Aphrodite's disappointment, the ceremony was a short one - nothing too flashing. Frigg wed them, and Freya blessed them. And it was now time to…(ahem)

Consummate the marriage.

Calliope and Tunraz were sitting on Calliope's bed.

" So… " said Calliope, wanting to break the awkward silence; " wanna get busy??? "

Tunraz just looked at her.

" Please forget I ever said those words… "

Tunraz now seemed to get a bit shy.

" I was hoping that we could take it nice and easy. "

It was now Calliope's turn to look at him.

" I thought that you would be eager to 'woe' me. The sex drive of Norse Gods is legendary. "

Tunraz smiled nervously.

" It is just that… - he started fidgeting - it is my first time. "

An expression of utter shock and surprise painted Calliope's face.

" Seriously? "

" Seriously. "

" Hmm. "

" What? "

" It is also my first time. "

" Seriously? "

" Well… kind of. It is my first time with a man. "

Tunraz looked at her.

" It is an honor. "

Calliope giggled.

" Will you stop fidgeting? I am sure that she is fine. " said Aphrodite, as she was petting Jörmungandr within the hall. Kratos was sitting by a long table: anxiously playing with one of his Blades of Chaos.

Aphrodite just sighed. She then moved her head back.

" What I wouldn't have given to hear her moan- "

Aphrodite jumped as Kratos' Blade of Chaos was now stuck in the column next to her face: after having grazed her cheek.

Kratos sighed heavily, clearly indicating: don't ever say something like that again.

" Yeah… " said Aphrodite, as she took out the blade; " I pretty much asked for that… "

She threw back the blade.

Tunraz was sitting before Kratos.

Kratos was drinking a horn of mead, while starring bloody-murder at the boy.

" Say something. " said Dúfa, a Dís, from Tunraz's shoulder.

" Like what? "

Dúfa thought about it. She then said:

" Something nice about Calliope! "

Tunraz thought about it. He then said:

" Sir! I am very honored to have made love to your daughter! "

Kratos shattered the horn in his hand.

Dúfa sighed.

" Of all the things you shouldn't have said… that is the one thing: you really shouldn't have said… "

Kratos got up from his chair, as he drew forth his Blade of Chaos.

" Hey, Hey, Hey! " exclaimed Aphrodite, as she quickly came to the rescue; '' get. " nodded Aphrodite to Tunraz. Tunraz, understandably, pretty much ran for his life. Kratos put his blade back in its sheath, as he sat back down.

" No need to frighten the boy. " said Aphrodite, as she sat down next to him.

" Hmm. "

Aphrodite rolled her eyes.

" You really need to loosen up a bit. "

There was a pause.

" You should be proud. "

Kratos turned to look at her.

" She has come a long way. She has been able to overcome any challenge put before her. "

Kratos smiled faintly.

" She is an incredible girl. "

" She is. "

Kratos sighed.

" You're right. "

Aphrodite looked at him.

" I should cut loose a bit. "

Aphrodite smiled: surprised, as Kratos took her hand, and the two of them could now be seen walking towards the corridor where all the rooms were.

" What are you two up to? " asked Calliope.

" I am about to get some! " yelled Aphrodite, excitedly.

It took Calliope a second.

" Uhhh… ewww. "

Meili had seen the whole thing and smiled - he was ready to bounce on Kratos; if he had gotten any closer to his son. Meili sighed, as it was high time to tell his wife what had happened. For Hel had no knowledge of the fact that her boy had not only been married… but she would soon become a grandmother.

Meili was on his back. Hands up, as Hel was on top of him: glaring him down.

" Give me one good reason: why I shouldn't just feed you to Níðhöggr! "

Meili paused, as he trembled.

" Have I mentioned just how lovely- "

Meili was not able to finish, as Hel growled at him.

The scene was the result of Meili telling Hel of current events. The whole thing was taking place within the underworld, as Hel-Cecilie-Stenspil was holding down Meili-Alexander-Skarsgård by the collar. Her scars had opened up, revealing her skull-face. For Hel was not rotten on the left side. She was scarred.

" Who is she? Tell me of her. "

Meili trembled a bit more. Fearing the coming fury.

" A foreigner!!! " yelled Hel, as a pillar of blue fire shot up from the underworld.

" There was no other option… "

Hel drew Meili closer.

" Only one of Freya's daughters would have been worthy of our son. "

(Freya's daughters: Thea Sofie Loch Næss as Hnoss and Sol Aguilera as Gersemi)

Meili smiled.

" Calliope can easily give those two a run for their money. "

(Calliope - Millie Brady)

Hel paused. Intrigued.

She calmed down. Whereupon her scars closed, revealing only a scarred left side: which certainly had its charms, while the right side of her body remained as beautiful as ever. She got up. Helped Meili back up. She looked her husband directly in the eyes. And then said:

" Take me to her. "

Hel entered Valhal. She sat down. Crossed her legs and arms. And then said:

" Alright. Where's the bikkja? "

Kratos looked at her: suspecting that she had said something foul. An einherjer whispered the meaning of the word in his ear. Kratos immediately drew forth a Blade of Chaos, and made his way towards Hel.

" Shhh. " sounded Aphrodite, as she was hugging Kratos: preventing him from getting to Hel.

Hel just looked at them. That was when Calliope made herself known. Hel gave her an elevator look, and then said:

" She's pretty. "

" And you're tolerable. "

Hel raised an eyebrow.

" But I have been wondering, " said Calliope; " how someone like you - for Calliope did not find Hel charming - managed to land someone like him. " said Calliope, nodding towards Meili.

" Been asking myself that for years. " said Nina-Freya-Agdal with a drink in her hand.

" You say something, Freya? "

" Nothing, Hel. "

" Then how about we keep it that way. " said Hel with a smile.

Freya returned her smile.

" Bitch. "

" Slut. "

Frigg rubbed her forehead; finding such vulgar words redundant.

(I should quickly mention: that Hel is not like this. I mean: she is always like this with Freya, but to everyone else: her kindness was legendary.)

Hel turned her attention back to Calliope.

" Careful, child. For you address a goddess. "

Calliope smiled.

" I see. You want people to respect you based on your title, and not personality. "

Hel raised an eyebrow once more.

" I like this one. " said Freya.

Frigg-Connie-Nielsen nodded in approval.

Hel stood up. And made her way towards Calliope. Kratos jumped over a table, while Jörmungandr, still in his feline-form, jumped onto Hel's shoulder. The tension in the room was now at an eleven. Everyone waiting to see what Hel would do next. As she now stood before Calliope - Jörmungandr and Kratos were there to make sure nothing got bloody.

" Mor. "

Hel turned to look at her son.

" Please. " said Tunraz, sweetly.

Hel raised a hand to his cheek.

" Anything for you, sweety. '' Rumor had it: that out of her three kids - Melili and Melkorka being the other two - Tunraz was Hel's favored child. Not that parents should have favorites - but that is beside the point.

" You are not angry? "

" Not at you, child. " said Hel, sweetly; " I know exactly who to vent my anger upon. "

Meili trembled a bit, as she was looking at him.

" So… we good? " said Calliope.

Hel sighed.

" We good… welcome to the family. "

Calliope jumped into Hel's embrace: giving her a hug. Everything was now settled, as Hel returned to the underworld.

" My love… " said Meili.

The two of them were standing outside: on the stairs leading up to the great hall. The moon was full, and the stars were glittering. Meili was standing at the top of the staircase, while Hel was standing in the middle. It all looked rather romantic.

" You should have come to me first… "

" Forgive me. "

" Why did you put such a burden upon him? "

" It was in the name of peace. "

" Peace? " Hel scoffed.

" I didn't make him do anything he didn't agree to."

Hel drew closer to Meili.

" He is a people pleaser, so of course he agreed! And not only that: you probably made it sound like he was doing the right thing. Sacrificing for the greater good. - Hel paused - How could he refuse… "

Meili was confused.

" Why is that important? "

" He has a martyr complex! "

(Hel knew her boy very well)

Meili just stood there, taking it all in. He then said:

" I see… the father should not have meddled in matters: which the mother understood very well. "

" You think? " said Hel's expression.

Hel sighed, having gotten it all out.

Husband and wife now lovingly held one another, as Hel was gonna get her due later tonight… if you know what I am saying ;)

But the story is not over just yet, as Frigg was using Hliðskjálf to see across the realm. That was when she noticed a foreign figure within Scandinavia. Frigg drew back in the chair: having gotten a good look at the stranger. Her palms were sweaty. Her whole body was shaking, as she uttered:

" Ēl 'ēlîm… "

Enbilulu was making his way towards Valhal. He stopped as Hárbarðr-Viggo-Mortensen stood in his way. Enbilulu-Ricky-Whittle walked up, and took hold of his staff.

" Would you deprive an old man of his walking stick? "

Enbilulu tilted his head. He then let go, and walked further ahead.

A BOOM! Could be heard, as Enbilulu turned around to see Hárbarðr in full armor and the staff transformed into Gungnir.

" Walking stick my ass. "

Hárbarðr looked up, and Enbilulu could see him smile.

Kratos was outside sharpening his blade, as Aphrodite was practicing with her spear.

" Isn't she just a sex and love goddess? " said an einherjer, talking to Kratos.

" She likes to play the fool, making sure others underestimate her. " Kratos tested the tip of his blade; " she is smarter than she looks. "

" Uhm, excuse me. " said Aphrodite; " I am as smart as I look. "

" My point: proven. "

They looked on as Frigg, with full speed, ran past them: towards the great staircase. There Hárbarðr was: wounded, struggling up the steps. Frigg caught him. He rested against her embrace, blood visible both at his side and on the tip of Gungnir.

" Did you manage to stop him? " asked Frigg.

" I managed to delay him. " said Hárbarðr, a bit weak. Frigg was now in the midst of healing him.

" Enbilulu, who? " said Kratos.

" Ēl 'ēlîm… " said Frigg; " the God of Gods. "

" Who? "

" Marduk. '' said Aphrodite, as she found Kratos' lack of knowledge a bit cute. - he had a lot of catching up to do.

" Why is he here? A land not his own. "

" Revenge, most likely. " It was Calliope who had spoken up.

" Revenge. Why? "

" Because: I killed Ashur. "

The only thing Kratos could say was:

" That's my girl. "

" Now is not the time to be proud of me. "

" It's always time to be proud of you. "

Calliope sighed, as she rolled her eyes,

" I must fight him. "

Frigg looked at her.

" Really? In your condition? " said Frigg's expression.

" Don't tell them. " replied Calliope's expression.

" He is here. " said Hárbarðr from the high seat.

Everyone walked out of Valhal, to see Enbilulu standing outside. He wore full armor. With his Imhullu-axe sheathed at his back. One poleyn was shaped like the face of Humbaba. The other: like the face of a Lamassu. The Ishtar Gate was painted on his plackart. Tiamat's cylinder seal head was visible on his vambrace. The head of a Mušḫuššu visible from each pauldron. A large lyre bull head shot out from his cuirass. A lion head, from the lion hunt of Ashurbanipal, was his helmet. With the faceplate of Sargon's Death Mask: visible from within the lion's mouth. Enbilulu's eyes glowed from within the eyeholes. That was when Calliope noticed the forked lightning bolt across the left eyehole of the Death Mask. She then noticed the wound. Enbilulu held a hand to his side, while glaring at Hárbarðr.

"Damn walking stick. "

Hárbarðr giggled, as he stood next to Frigg; now wearing his blue cloak and pointy hat.

Calliope approached Enbilulu. She looked up at him, for Enbilulu was a giant of a god. Everyone looked on, as Ēl 'ēlîm took off his helmet. That was when Aphrodite made some: mhm-mhm-mhm sounds.

" Try and keep it in your pants. " said Kratos.

" No promises. "

For as stated before: Enbilulu very much resembled: Ricky Whittle.

" Godslayer. " said Enbilulu with a smooth and sexy voice.

" God of Gods. " said Calliope; " What brings you hither? "

" You. "

" Little old me? " said Calliope, playfully.

Enbilulu couldn't help but laugh a little.

" I can't imagine how you ended up killing Ashur. "

Calliope narrowed her eyes.

" Are you mocking me? Or complimenting me? "

Enbilulu answered with a smirk.

" I see. Thank you for your comockment, and now: please leave. "

" I would love to. " a serious expression befell Enbilulu's chiseled features; " but I must kill you first. "

Kratos walked forward, blades out. Aphrodite quickly caught him, and held him back.

" May I at least know the reason? " asked Calliope, coolly and calmly.

" With Ashur's passing, the throne has been left vacant. Only those who kill his killer may occupy it… but. "

" But? "

" There is another option. "

" Which is? "

Enbilulu smiled.

" You become my wife. "

Aphrodite struggled to hold Kratos back.

" We would have many strong children. "

Aphrodite was really struggling now! While Calliope seemed unaffected.

" Thank you, but no thanks. "

" Your loss. "

" I doubt that. "

Enbilulu put his helmet back on.

" I will come on the day after tomorrow. With my Umman Manda, Anzû, and Sebitti. Make your peace till then. "

The days went by quietly. Nothing much was said, as every fighter prepared for the coming battle.

Calliope was sitting on a bench within the hall. Kratos walked by, and noticed her agitated leg.

Calliope was indeed nervous… for she was fighting for two. Kratos helped calm her down by telling her how he met her mother… It was a beautiful story.

Trud entered the hall.

" They're here. "

Calliope stood up, ready to go. That was when Hárbarðr placed a hand on her shoulder.

" In your hour of need: look to the hall. "

Hárbarðr then nodded towards a Karl-Urban-looking-einherjer: who returned Hárbarðr's nod, and then walked off to gather the other einherjer.

Calliope and her allies were all standing atop the staircase, leading to Valhal. They noticed the trees shaking in the distance. They saw how the birds fled in the opposite direction. That was when they saw them: A Great Heathen Army approaching. Kratos went to deal with the Seven Sebitti. Hræsvelgr, the Great Eagle, came to Calliope's aid, by taking on Anzû. Meili was going to fight Enbilulu. Which meant that: it was up to Calliope, Aphrodite, Trud, Tunraz, and Frigg, to take on The Horde From Who Knows Where… and there were a good many of them to go around. Not to mention the monstrous and inhuman appearance of the Umman Manda. The battles commenced as Wardruna's Lyfjaberg could be heard playing in the background. Calliope crushed the skull of a Umman Manda with Sharur. Aphrodite speared one to death. Trud barbecued several with Mjölnir, while Tunraz incinerated a whole lot of them with Hel - his mother's battleax. Frigg ran her spear: Grásiða, through the gut of one Umman Manda. She then jumped into the air: kneeing another in the face. And then RKO'ed a third. Frigg stood back up. Pulled free her spear, and then walked back into the heat of the battle.

Kratos had managed to kill the Sebitti who had transformed into a lion.

(A lion taking on a Greek Demi-God? Bitch, please.) He quickly dealt with The Snake and The Dragon. But Kratos was starting to struggle with The Burning Fire, The Storm, and The Flood. Not to mention: that The Flashing Lightning had yet to attack. Meili headbutted Enbilulu in the face: shattering both their helmets. Enbilulu noticed the Ægishjálmur painted on Meili's forehead. But that was not enough to scare him off, as he

brought down Imhullu, but Meili quickly countered with his: Mammen Axe. The weapons were tossed aside, as both Gods preferred to do it the old fashion way. Aphrodite paused to wolf-whistle as both Meili and Enbilulu were now barechested.

Calliope and gang were starting to feel the weight of the seemingly endless Umman Manda. Kratos had managed to kill The Burning Fire, The Storm, and The Flood, but The Flashing Lightning was putting up one helluva fight. - honestly: Kratos was just getting distracted and annoyed by the fact that the last brother was using lightning to keep him at bay. Meili was starting to gasp for air, as his muscles all ached. Enbilulu was a fierce opponent, but even he started to look a bit worn out. Calliope, Aphrodite, Trud, Tunraz, and Frigg, were all backing up towards the hall, as there were simply too many Umman Manda. That was when Hárbarðr's words echoed in her ear:

" In your hour of need: look to the hall. "

Calliope looked back; to see the doors of Valhal burst open, as Lyfjaberg was 5 minutes and 23 seconds in. Hárbarðr was on Sleipnir. The Karl-Urban-looking-einherjer appeared beside him: very much like he had done for Gandalf. Hárbarðr rode forth on Sleipnir, Gungnir pointed ahead, as the Oskoreia followed him from close behind. Calliope was thrown up in the air by a Travis-Fimmel-looking-viking. She landed on Svaðilfari. Calliope summoned forth: The Blade of Olympus. And together with everyone else: she yelled: Death!

The Umman Manda were decimated underneath the thundering charge. Kratos had used the Imdugud axe to kill the last Sebitti. - for the battle had taken him all the way towards Assyrian Kratos' resting place. Meili and Enbilulu were both bloody and bruised. But Meili was still standing, while Enbilulu lay on the ground. Enbilulu would be spared. And nine months later: Calliope gave birth to a healthy baby boy. Whom she and Tunraz named: Krateros.