Danmachi: Valkyrie Oratoria

Chapter 11: Return

Freya's PoV

As I gazed into my divine mirror, spying on the soul that intrigued me so, I sighed contentedly. ''My dear Sigrid, your soul grows ever more beautiful.'' I purred. It truly was a unique essence I had seen in neither mortal nor spirit - its radiant white light outlined in rainbow hues, shining so firmly yet gently.

''Are you my Odr, Sigrid? Or something else entirely?'' I mused aloud. ''But whatever you are, I want you for myself.''

Her soul captivated me like none other. But I knew I should refrain from using the mirror too often, lest Loki or the others complain of my obsession again. And if Astraea were to learn I spied upon her child, she would surely be angered.

Especially since charming Astraea herself proved impossible due to her status as a virgin goddess and claiming Sigrid through trickery held little appeal for me either; it would feel unsatisfying compared to winning her over on merit alone.

But to think Sigrid almost bested one of the remnants from the Zeus Familia, two levels above her... It was a shame I couldn't witness the battle within that reality marble. I felt as though I had missed something truly delicious and significant. Ah, but there was no helping it now.

I took a sip of wine, hearing a knock at the door. ''Enter.'' I called.

''Milady, you requested my presence?'' Ottar asked, standing respectfully behind me.

''Yes, I was wondering - do you think you could defeat the Wrought Iron Hero now? If I recall, he bested you six years ago.'' 

''Yes, I apologize for shaming you back then.'' he replied humbly.

''Do not trouble yourself, Ottar. After all, their Familia is full of monsters.''  I replied with a sidelong glance.

Ottar paused in thought before answering. ''Right now, I believe I could defeat him... but only if I could prevent him from using his Reality Marble. Within that domain, his power can rival even Zald, if only temporarily.''

''I see... What are your thoughts on Sigrid?'' I inquired curiously. ''Would you like to test your mettle against her, my champion?''

Ottar considered carefully before responding. ''Not yet, my lady. I would feel more comfortable facing her after she has had a few more years to mature. I do not enjoy battling children. However, if you command it of me, I will fight her.''

''But do you want to fight her?'' I pressed.

After a pause, Ottar replied truthfully. ''Yes, Milady. Sigrid's growth intrigues me. I believe a battle against her skills could help push me to further heights of my own ability. The challenge she presents would be one I welcome, in time.''

''It is not often I hear such high praise from your lips, Ottar.'' I mused as I gazed down into the streets below, ever searching for a soul that might pique my interest but finding the usual mundane fare.

Draining the last of the wine, I rose and set my glass upon the table. ''It seems I am due a visit with Loki.'' I said aloud, taking the robe Ottar held ready. Donning it, I exited my private chambers to meet with Loki at our usual place of discussion, alone. 

While I would prefer Ottar's company, his formidable presence was ill-suited for private negotiations. As such, he would watch from afar as always, prepared to intervene should any threat arise against me. With that security in place, I made my way to confer with my fellow goddess.

✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤

Sigrid's PoV