“AH! TO BE WHOLE AGAIN!” shouted Zeus. Outside, lightning flashed and thunder rolled. Tyler could see that the dazzling atmospheric display encircled the temple and extended as far as his eyes could see. The crash of the continuous sound of thunder was deafening.
Now that’s a major league display. The big guy must really be happy.
“My thanks, Asclepius! You may go now, with my blessings! Again, no raising the dead!”
“I remember your injunction, Lord Zeus. I am glad to be of service,” replied the deity. Asclepius disappeared.
“The Greek god of medicine?” asked Tyler.
“Yes. One of my grandsons. A demigod. The son of Apollo,” replied Zeus. “A great gift. But too hard-headed. Stubborn. The worst among my grandsons. Even after repeated warnings from Hades and me, he continued reviving the dead back in the First World. Even my enemies! Hades was already complaining! The natural state of things was being perverted. So, in the end, I was forced to use a lightning bolt. Painless and quick. I did elevate him to minor godhood and made arrangements with Hades for the lad to be on Olympus. Such a gift should not be wasted. But it has to be controlled.”
“Oh.” Tyler didn’t know what else to say.
“You are more resourceful than I imagined. A shame you’re not of my pantheon! As I said before, the gratefulness of the Greek pantheon is at your feet! Ask what you will!”
Tyler was taken aback. He now remembered Zeus’s promise. Though for him, the task assumed the status of a quest in his mind. A job to do. If only to stay on the good side of a powerful deity and more importantly, to prevent Zeus from asking too many questions. The head of the Greek pantheon was a dangerously perceptive and insightful being.
“Can I think about it, Lord Zeus?” he stuttered.
“Of course, you can! Don’t take too long. I don’t want it said that the Greeks are an ungrateful lot. But no Achilles request, please. First off, you don’t have some immortal blood in your veins. Bathing in the Styx will turn you to ashes in an instant. I can make you invulnerable, but that brings us to the second point. Being invulnerable doesn’t make you immune to magic spells, enchanted weapons, or being buried alive. More importantly, it makes you overconfident and that, young mage, is a very risky trait.”
Odin and Viracocha had the beginnings of smiles on their faces. Thaut just nodded in agreement.
“Of course, Lord Zeus, though I have to admit the thought of the reward just came to my mind.”
“Really? You’re a strange one, High Mage. But to business. It is important that we all understand perfectly where matters stand and what is at risk,” replied Zeus. He then snapped his fingers.
These deities can’t really resist the opportunity to show off, Tyler thought as he vanished together with the four gods. Fortunately, he had the presence of mind to close his eyes as Zeus made his declaration. No warning even.
Chapter Lore:
Caeneus – Greek. A hero (heroine) of Thessaly. Believed to be originally a woman named Caenis and was raped by Poseidon. She was so distraught after the fact that she demanded to be changed into a man in order not to be raped again. Poseidon gave in and changed her. He also made her invulnerable to weapons. Caenus became one of the best weaponmasters in Greek mythology, surpassing even Achilles in their mastery.
Asclepius – The Greek god of medicine. The son of Apollo and a mortal woman though Apollo was forced to kill the mother and her human lover. Asclepius was brought up by the Chiron the Centaur, taught healing, and with his natural gifts, became a living god among humans. Unfortunately, Athena also gifted him with the blood of Medusa which gave Asclepius the power to raise the dead. An ability which greatly angered Zeus when he saw old enemies and persons punished by his lightning bolts come to life. According to legend, Hades also complained about the drastic lowering of new additions to the Greek underworld. Zeus punished the demigod by throwing a lightning bolt at him.
Chapter VII
Way Over One's Head
As soon as he felt his feet on solid ground, Tyler opened his eyes. Surprisingly, he found himself in a Chinese garden. It was enclosed by low walls and he could see a blue sky with small white clouds. In front of him was a paved path of square white stones, with the grass growing in the spaces between individual tiles. The footpath led to a red hexagonal pavilion in the traditional Chinese style. The large gazebo itself was in the middle of a pond. Trees were arranged around the view in a visually clean and refreshing manner. The entire scene was a combination of relaxing colors and given the calmness of a friendly landscape.
The four deities started walking towards the pavilion. It was apparent that the visit was not the first for Odin, Viracocha, and Thaut. He hurried to catch up with Zeus.
“Lord Zeus, may I ask a question,” ventured Tyler.
“You may, High Mage,” came the answer.
“It’s this garden. It doesn’t look Greek,” the mage asked while walking beside Zeus.
“Of course, it isn’t Greek. It’s a gift from the Jade Emperor. A place for friends and allies to discuss grave and important concerns without fear of spies and busybodies.”
“It’s just unfortunate he won’t be able to join us. Attacks from the Void Lands have increased in ferocity, frequency, and size,” said Thaut.
“I heard about that. Even the pantheons of Sumer and Akkad had to force the Dual Empire to agree to peace with the Zhong. The Void Lands problem is escalating,” replied Odin.
“That’s among the things we have to discuss,” said Zeus.
They already reached the pavilion. It had cushioned seats at each corner and a small table filled with food and drink in the middle.
“Take your seat, High Mage. This is the first time a mortal has been admitted to our gathering though the matters at hand will dampen the celebratory spirit,” Zeus warned.
The group took their seats. It apparently was an informal meeting place as no indication of hierarchy or rank dictated the seating arrangements.
“Take your fill, High Mage. Be at ease here. This is a gathering to share concerns, ideas, and possible solutions,” said Zeus.
“My thanks, Lord Zeus,” he replied.
“Havard, as Lord Zeus said, this is an informal meeting. If you think you have something to contribute, just ask permission to speak,” said Viracocha.
“Now,” said Zeus as he addressed Tyler. “An explanation as to why you are included in this gathering of pantheons.”
“The Aztecah Empire is a concern for all of us. For now, it is the Inka Kingdom, its allies, and Kemet which are threatened. We don’t doubt that it will turn its attention to other lands later on. Unfortunately for Skaney and Hellas, no human reinforcements could be sent south. The distance is too great. Kemet could but with what’s happening within the pantheons, it could not risk reducing its defenses. It has barbarian tribes bordering the kingdom. Its rulers do not know if these great tribes will be neutral or suddenly turn their attention to its fertile lands.”
“My lord Zeus, these are matters of grand strategy and politics. Shouldn’t Athena be here?” asked Tyler.
“That’s an idea, but she has work to do in my absence. An issue which leads us to the next concern. We now have proof of a far-reaching conspiracy involving members of various pantheons. We still don’t know who is leading it, but as far as Hellas is concerned, we have eliminated one of its tentacles. You did good, High Mage. I was ready to accept the death of Ares and his sons. A son and two grandsons. But you did solve the matter admirably. But Athena does not think Ares was working alone.”
“You were expecting a punishment for Ares?” he asked.
“The god of assassins, upon instructions from Athena, was able to get one of the foreign travel scrolls the sons used for their armies. By themselves, those minor gods couldn’t have obtained them. A strange magic, if I may say so. Even the gathered gods here agree. They haven’t seen such a spell in all their stay in Adar.”
“May I examine the scroll, Lord Zeus
?”
“Later, High Mage. Let’s finish this matter first. Now, major figures of pantheons cannot involve themselves in the human invasion happening down south. For now, it is also a conflict between the pantheons of the Inca and their allies against the Aztecah. Human against human. God against god. Of course, minor gods and demigods can involve themselves on the human side of the conflict. But it appears the Aztecah pantheon has provided for their champions. Almost all the champions on the Incan and allied side have already been killed or have become prisoners. To bring in more pantheons will lead to a bigger war. We don’t know what other gods have secret alliances with them. To make matters worse, our pantheons are faced with a devious conspiracy within our ranks. A grave and dangerous threat. And we have just started housecleaning. Time is not on our side in this deadly problem. We are kept busy with internal threats while the Aztecah Empire marches to our borders,” said Zeus in a woeful tone, shaking his head.
“Which brings us to you, High Mage,” said Odin. “The champions in our lands are not powerful enough. Remember, the Aztecah Empire disposed of the champions of three allied kingdoms. We need to have a mortal stop the human side of the invasion. Though if you make the mistake of directly challenging one of their deities, then that increases the odds. You will have to deal with that deity.”
“Not the whole pantheon?” inquired Tyler.
“No, not the entire bunch. Unless you make the dreadful error of challenging the head of the pantheon. He does represent them all. The same rule applies to all pantheons on Adar.”
“Thank… gods!” exclaimed Tyler, remembering the warning of Dionysus. “I thought I’d have to fight them all!”
“Not unless you want to,” laughed Viracocha.
“So you see, High Mage, you are the only choice left to us,” commented Zeus.
“How about the other minor gods? The demigods? Herakles?” asked the mage, rising desperation evident in his voice. SHIT! THEY DUMPED EVERYTHING ON ME!
“You easily handled two minor gods here in Skaney, Havard. No other minor god could step up and say he’s your equal. Oh, some would do that. I know how these youngsters think,” said Zeus. “But the result will still be the same.”
“As for Herakles, I am trying to find him. Even with his elevation to godhood, he still thinks like a mortal. And stubborn as a mule. Difficult to find when he doesn’t want to be found. I don’t think he likes being cooped up in Olympus. But then, against the Aztecah, he will find himself at a disadvantage. Magical weapons and spells are perfect counters to incredible physical abilities like strength and agility. He does have a significant handicap. That brutish brain.”
“How about Kemet? Don’t they have anybody?”
“A few champions, High Mage. But not at your level. Our people are not warlike. You are the only High Mage on Adar with those kinds of abilities. I don’t even think the title ‘High Mage’ fits you anymore. Mage, Master Mage, High Mage are the higher ranks of mageship. You have gone beyond them. I believe the term ‘First Mage’ would be more appropriate.”
“Protos Magos in Greek,” said Zeus. Odin and Viracocha just smiled.
“So I get to stop the Aztecah Empire by my lonesome? I just lost a companion. A valued, loyal, and highly competent one. Though I hope Lord Odin can make an exception in this matter,” said Tyler, the memory of Jorund affecting his voice, adding a slight tremble to his voice.
“Ah, Havard. There is nothing more I would like to do now than to bring back your companion. But I am bound by rules and beliefs greater than me. By his deeds, an Einherjar he will become. Unfortunately, once a soul enters Valhalla, the memory of a previous life is lost unless a greater power is involved.”
“Can the other pantheons help?” Tyler despondently asked.
“Unfortunately, no,” replied Thaut. “The afterlife of each mortal on Adar is dictated by his or her beliefs. A Norse goes to Freyr, to Valhalla or the land of punishment well-deserved. A Greek goes to Hades. We, in Kemet, have our concept of the afterlife.”
Tyler buried his head in his hands. I really thought I could get Jorund back.
“I am sorry, Havard. We all wish we could help, but this is beyond us.” He heard Viracocha say in a soft voice.
Tyler slowly looked up. Now that the adrenaline of battle was gone, stark reality came knocking at his door.
“I think I am beginning to understand how Adar works, Lord Viracocha,” answered Tyler, his voice on the verge of breaking down. He took all his will not to break down crying. Jorund’s life. And now his soul.
“I did ask the Valkyrie to wait for you to say goodbye,” Odin said. “It’s the best I could do.”
“My thanks, Lord Odin,” he replied.
“We will try to find trustworthy and capable companions for you, First Mage. With Lord Zeus’s permission, Astrid can accompany you. If she’s willing. Your task there is going to be difficult even if one discounts the involvement of their deities,” offered Zeus. “But for now, we need to discuss other matters among ourselves. Time has barely passed on Adar. You won’t be missed.”
Odin nodded.
“The fast travel parchment, Lord Zeus? May I examine it?”
“I’ll do better than that, my boy. Here’s a copy. An exact one, only missing the energy stored in the original,” said Zeus as he gave Tyler a scroll.
“My thanks, Lord Zeus. A last question before I am dismissed?” said Tyler as he pocketed the scroll.
Odin and Viracocha laughed. Tyler couldn’t tell if Thaut was grinning. The ibis head of the deity made it impossible to say.
“Humans and their curiosity,” grumped Zeus.
“I heard mention of the Void Lands and I was wondering what it means,” asked Tyler.
“I’ll answer that,” said Viracocha. “There is a vast territory between the lands of the Zhong and that of the Dual Empire of Sumer and Akkad. It’s called the Void Lands. It also borders what humans call the Death Lands. Existing even before the arrival of deities, the best answer to questions about its nature is that it’s an anomaly. It contains breaks in the fabric of reality of this world. Unfortunately, nobody has been able to explore it. A few tried, but they never returned. It’s that dangerous. It spews forth strange and dangerous beings from other planes, in no particular order. We believe it’s a nexus. A place where different realities meet. Somehow, one or several openings have been made, enabling those creatures to stumble into this world. We don’t know how or why the nexus exists. And the foul beings it spews try to enter the lands of the bordering kingdoms. A few stay in the Death Lands. There to contend with beasts and creatures of this world and that of the First World.”
“Where is it?”
“Far to the east. On the opposite side of this land. It does pose another threat. We are thankful for the efforts of both empires in trying to contain the infestation, but the words of the Jade Emperor alarm us greatly. It would have far better if the Aztecha Empire were the one which found itself bordering the Void Lands.”
“Please tell me it’s not also my problem.”
Viracocha gave him a knowing grin.
“I don’t think so, First Mage. It is a matter for major deities and similar beings. Fortunately, we are not barred from battling the creatures coming from the nexus. But mind you, they can be very powerful beings. And that’s talking from experience.”
“Human matters are enough headaches for me, my lords.”
“Goodbye, First Mage. Close your eyes. You’ll find yourself back on the battlefield,” Viracocha said with a wave of his right hand.
Tyler felt a slight disorientation and then opened his eyes. He found himself exactly where he was before though the two demigods were gone. Astrid and Habrok had moved to his position.
“Sire! We were wondering where you went!” cried Habrok as Tyler appeared.
“We were a bit concerned, sire,” added Astrid. “Though the reaction of the enemy heartened us. It also appeared that even they didn’t expect what happened. Thoug
h I have to say that Habrok was not himself. He was all over the place trying to track you.”
“My thanks, Habrok,” said Tyler as he looked at the man. The man’s face still showed some signs of alarm and panic. Tyler couldn’t blame him. After Jorund, Tyler was the only one left from the original group.
“You’re welcome, sire. I thought I lost another… brother,” came the hesitant reply.
“And a brother to me you will always be, Habrok. And Astrid? Only a bit concerned?”
“Oh, we both were very concerned, sire. But both of us are unfamiliar with this magic thing. Only Jorund had some experience with it.”
Tyler was about to reply when the sky above the Dorian host brightened. Then he saw the new god of battle descend, but he stayed up in the air, twelve feet off the ground.
“ATTEND! DEIMOS, THE NEW BATTLE-GOD COMES!
The declaration was loud enough to shake the trees at the back of the Dorian army.
“Stay where you are and watch,” said Tyler to Habrok and Astrid.
He could see several robed individuals swiftly push their way to the front of the host. Following them was a phalanx with distinctive red hoplons and elaborate armor.
The priests and mages of Ares. And the elite guard of the temple, he surmised.
“And who are you to claim the title of our Lord Ares, usurper?” cried out a robed old man.
“Deimos? A minor godling? A battle-god? Preposterous!” shouted another as he elbowed his way forward. It was a bald and aging man more elaborately dressed than the first.
At the outcries of the two, the phalanx following them closed ranks, deployed their shields, and positioned their dorata in the direction of Deimos. The rattle and clangor of massed armor and weapons being used by trained hoplites were impressive. It sounded like one, a mass of experienced men ready to do battle. Tyler could see Deimos shaking his head. Then he disappeared. As the action was not directed at him, the mage could only see what others were seeing. Each of the two old men found themselves dead on the top of a tree. Two of topmost branches being shoved through their chests. The rest of the robed ensemble which positioned themselves near the two were disemboweled, cut in half or lost their heads. The phalanx was spattered with blood and gore. Tyler noticed Deimos didn’t touch the hoplites, only those in robes. But the new god of battle seemed to have gained the abilities of Ares.
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