20-To War

This cliffside scene was something I had found only a short time ago—or rather, it would be more accurate to say that I had planned a date like this before, but right now, I just suddenly decided to get it done.

My relationship with Freyja had come a long way since we met... and got engaged. For that, I had to thank Njord. He made it easy. I mean, she's happy, I'm happy, so it's all good, right?

During this time, we became something akin to best friends. Since we were already a couple, I didn't force the relationship but instead focused on getting to know her better. And honestly? At this point, I can say that Freyja knows me better than anyone in this world.

Even some of my darker sides.

To everyone else, I'm the genius prince—a kind person who cares for his people, doing all he can to help them. But only a few know my true nature. And Freyja? She just happens to be one of them.

The fact that she's still the same—even after knowing all that about me—just makes me fall for her even harder.

"It's beautiful... How did you even find this place? You're hardly in Vanaheim, and even I haven't seen this spot before," Freyja muttered, mesmerized by the scenery.

"I'm sorry, milady, but you need to drag your lazy, introverted ass outside your home if you wanna find places like this," I said.

This was a bad habit I had developed recently—roasting her. Maybe making fun of her was my love language? I just couldn't bring myself to talk romantically all the time like some romance novel protagonist.

"Hey, you bastard, you ruined the entire mood! How can you say such things to such a beautiful lady?" she huffed, dramatically tossing her hair.

Yeah… I think I'm bad company. Even she's started cursing now.

"Now, now, I arranged the whole thing, right? Just let some jokes slide. Anyway, enough of that. Let's get started with my real plan," I said, completely ignoring her protests.

"What?? You're here with a plan???" Freyja asked, looking shocked.

"Umm… yes?" Her reaction confused me.

"OHHH NOOO!! What am I supposed to do?! I'm all alone with an evil and strong prince who's here with some nefarious plan! There's not even a single soul around to save me!! What will happen to me?!" she shouted in mock terror.

"....."

My mouth twitched. I'm the one ruining the mood?

"Your ass is mine, Freyja."

She giggled and immediately took off running, still spouting nonsense as she ran. Of course, I gave chase.

After a short sprint, we reached the cliffside. I finally caught up to her—and caught her.

And now that she was in my hands… I started tickling her.

Yes, you heard me right. The mighty goddess of love, beauty, and magic is ticklish.

Her laughter rang through the air as she tried to fight me off, but she had no chance. After a short but brutal tickle attack, I stopped and gently cupped her face.

Our eyes met. The laughter faded.

It was silent. As if time itself had stopped.

I didn't know how long we just stood there, staring at each other.

Then, I lunged—kissing her fiercely.

Our first kiss.

I had wanted to do this for a while, but there was never a good moment. Even now… it wasn't a picture-perfect moment...

But I guess this is life, not a story. Sometimes, you just have to make your own moments.

When we finally pulled away—after a long time (not gonna quantify it, don't ask)—she let out a soft breath.

"That was good..." she murmured.

"Of course it was. You're kissing the mighty prince of Asgard, living the dream of every Aesir girl. You just earned some serious bragging rights," I said, smirking.

"Oh really? But since when did my prince start planning actual dates? I never knew you even had that skill. Always thought you were just some dumb guy who had no clue what a lady wants. And considering how long you took, it's kinda true..." she said, tapping her chin in mock thought as she rested her head on my lap.

"Hey, I was waiting for the perfect moment. Look at your surroundings—could it have been better than this? And anyway, it's a long story..." I defended myself.

"Ohhh, a long story? Well, it just so happens that I have plenty of free time," she said, clearly waiting for me to spill it.

"Well..." I sighed. "I'm leaving for the battlefield in a few days. Father ordered me to lead the armies. My first thought was that once I return from war… I'd finally share our first kiss. And then ask you to come with me to Asgard."

"But then I thought… Shit, I'm raising some serious flags here."

"So here we are. First kiss? Done. Next step? Kidnap you back to Asgard and keep you with me forever."

"Oh no!!! The evil villain is kidnapping the princess! Maybe he'll lock me up in a tower!! Who will save me now?!" she gasped dramatically.

I smirked. "Do you really want to be saved?"

She blinked, then grinned.

"Shit… Maybe I fell under that Stockholm syndrome you told me about… Because I fell in love with my captor. Though, to be honest… he's kinda hot."

Yep. That's my Freyja.

Anyway, with all that done… the romance arc was officially over. Back to war. Now I could fight with peace of mind.

After spending some time together, I returned to Asgard—with Freyja.

At this point, she was more of a daughter to my mother than Hela was. Poor Hela. That's what you get for being a battle junkie.

"Son, are you ready for war?" My father asked. "Although the Kamitarr people are weak in strength, their technology is decent. We must crush their rulers and make their entire planet submit to us. Ensure that there is no chance of rebellion in the near future."

I nodded. "Yes, Father. I'll handle everything properly."

"Hmmm… The pride of Asgard rests upon your shoulders. Bring us glory, my heir."

With his hand on my shoulder, Odin gave me one final nod.

______

Hello everyone,

I hope you're enjoying the story!

I need your help with something—I just can't seem to find a good enough cover picture for the fic. If you have any suggestions, please let me know!

As for the story… I've always felt that my writing leans toward being engaging and natural, with a focus on planning. But I think this romance arc turned out pretty well.

Maybe I should add a romance tag too....

Anyway, don't forget to leave some reviews and power stones! Your support means a lot.