5 Chapter 5: The Age Of Gods And Fear

Chapter 5:

"I am but a traveler," the old man responded, his voice calm and resonant. "I have journeyed through many lands. As for my purpose here, it seems our paths have crossed for a reason."

Henry's grip on the pistol tightened slightly, his eyes narrowing. He remained wary, not fully convinced of the old man's intentions. However, something inside his mind clicked—the words were spoken, the tone of voice, the attire, and the strangely godly aura. There was only one character in mythology who matched these attributes.

But this only made him more vigilant towards the old man, now facing a god. However, he couldn't be certain if the old man was truly a god.

"You're changing the subject, old man. Who are you? And what purpose do you have here?" Henry demanded, his grip on the pistol tightening.

The smile on the old man's face remained unchanged, and his eyes were filled with ancient wisdom. "Patience, young warrior. All will be revealed in due time. I am here to seek the unknown, and I am but just a wary traveler lad no need to be so vigilant agonists me."

Henry retorted with venom in his words, "Don't speak in rhymes and riddles, Allfather!" This was only a guess on his part.

His words hung in the air, causing a sudden, deafening silence to descend upon the icy tundra. The old man, now with his cloak put away and a serious expression on his face, looked at Henry with eyes that seemed to see through his very soul.

However, just as quickly as the seriousness had appeared, a smile returned to the old man's face, deepening Henry's suspicions. There was something unsettling about the ease with which the old man shifted his demeanor.

With a calm yet commanding voice, the old man responded, "HoHo, quite interesting; how could a child from the lower world know of my title?" The old man said this with a hint of curiosity and playfulness in his tone as if he found amusement in the situation.

Henry listened to the old man's words and felt a newfound sense of calm wash over him. The person that he is confronting now is different; he couldn't kill it like the monsters and beasts that he fought before. But God, a genuine deity, thought he was just feeling things, but now it's different. He had spent countless hours studying the myths, legends, and tales of yore, delving into the whimsical nature of deities. However, actually facing a god face-to-face was an entirely different experience.

The existence of gods meant that the dangers he had faced thus far were only a glimpse of what lay ahead, and after gaining this knowledge in his mind, this world's danger level rose exponentially. He has now fought monsters, used magic, and met a god. He thought of the probability of gods in this world, but He didn't expect that he would meet a god like this. He just hopes they will be different from the myth.

Henry took a deep breath while still pointing his pistol at the old man. "None of your business, old man!" he retorted.

The old man's eyebrows raised, his curiosity clearly piqued. He leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Henry. "Tell me, young lad, from which Familia do you hail?"

Henry felt a wave of confusion wash over him at the unfamiliar term. Familia? Was it synonymous with family? Uncertain, he cautiously replied, "What do you mean by 'Familia'? If you're referring to my family, sadly, they no longer reside in this world."

The old man's expression softened, realizing his question had caused confusion for the young lad. With a gentle smile, he sought to clarify his inquiry.

"I offer my condolences for your loss, lad," the old man said sympathetically. "By Familia, I mean the organized groups here, led by powerful gods. Perhaps a better question would be: who is your patron god, the one who has bestowed upon you your Falna?"

"Patron god? You're the only god that I ever met, and What do you mean by 'Falna,' old man? It's a foreign word I've never heard before," Henry questioned, his tone laced with genuine curiosity.

The old man, taken aback by Henry's lack of familiarity with the term, furrowed his brow in surprise. He leaned in closer, his eyes narrowing as he asked, "You fought that Troll for three days and two nights, and yet you didn't possess a Falna?"

Confusion danced across Henry's face as he struggled to comprehend the old man's astonishment. "Yes, that's correct. Why does it surprise you so much?" he inquired, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and mild frustration.

The old man paused momentarily, his gaze fixed intently on Henry. "A Falna is a divine blessing bestowed upon adventurers by their patron gods," he explained, his tone a mixture of disbelief and fascination. "It enhances their abilities, grants them unique skills, and serves as a mark of their connection to the gods. It is highly uncommon for a warrior of your caliber, who has faced formidable foes, to be without such a blessing."

As the conversation continued, Henry's cautious nature remained ever-present. Though he had put away his Hunter's pistol, its weight pressed against his back waist, a reminder of the dangers that lurked in the world. Despite his hopes for a peaceful encounter, he couldn't shake off the nagging sense of preparedness.

A god of unmatched power, Henry couldn't afford to let his guard down completely. The world that now he inhabited was fraught with perils, and his experiences had taught him the importance of remaining vigilant.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When he ventures deeper troughs the valley, he didn't think much of it, if you go by past beyond the foot of it almost all of the area that encompasses it is unchartered for thousands of years, but he didn't expect to find a young lad to be living alone in this kind of place.

Amidst the increasing frequency of monster appearances, the young lad managed to survive, defying the odds in this harsh environment. The old man observed from a distance, hidden from sight, his two birds acting as his eyes and ears. They flew high above, aiding in spotting potential dangers. Even with that, they were discovered if they got too close towards the young lad as if he could sense the area that surrounded him.

The old man understood that such heightened senses were not uncommon for individuals blessed with a Falna. The young lad's survival and resilience brought him a peculiar sense of enjoyment. For several months, the old man had silently observed, patiently waiting for the right moment to intervene.

Then, on that fateful day, as the old man observed from his hidden vantage point, a foreboding tension hung in the air, shattering the once-serene ambiance of the valley. It had been quite some time since he last laid eyes upon the young lad, and now he found himself captivated by an extraordinary sight.

Before him, the young lad stood in the midst of a relentless onslaught of monsters. Wave after wave, they crashed against him, their ferocity matched only by his unwavering determination. The old man's one of his birds circled high above, keenly observing the lad's every move, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

As the battle waged on, the old man found himself consumed by an overwhelming sense of excitement. A spectacle of epic proportions unfolded before the old man's eyes. He watched in awe as the young lad, fueled by unparalleled skill and unwavering courage, clashed with the colossal monster. Each strike sent shockwaves through the earth, shaking the very foundations of the valley.

For three days and two nights, the battle raged without respite. The old man, ever the observer, could feel his blood boiling with anticipation. This was no ordinary skirmish; it was a clash of titans, a contest of wills that pushed both combatants to their limits.

In all his years, the old man had witnessed countless adventurers, each with their own impressive abilities. Yet, never before had he encountered an individual capable of fighting with such relentless stamina, unyielding even after days of ceaseless combat. It was a testament to the lad's will.

As the echoes of the battle gradually subsided, the old man felt a restlessness stir within him. The grandeur of the clash between the young lad and the colossal monster had invigorated his spirit, reminding him of the pleasures he had long yearned for in the lower world. It was the very reason he had descended from the upper realms, to witness and revel in such awe-inspiring spectacles that were no longer commonplace in the mortal realm.

But now, as he contemplated approaching the young lad and extending an invitation to join his Familia, a sense of anticipation mingled with surprise coursed through his being. He had expected the lad to be cautious, even wary, given his extraordinary display of strength and endurance. However, what caught the old man off guard was the lad's unfamiliarity with the concepts of Familia and Falna.

In his divine wisdom, the old man discerned the truth. Mortals could not deceive a god, and a mere glance would reveal any falsehood. And that how that lead to this situation.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Yes, I didn't have a Falna when I fought it, why are you so surprised about it old man?" As Henry inquired about the old man.

Henry's question seemed to strike a nerve within the old man, who had always carried himself with an air of aloof wisdom. But now, his composed demeanor shattered, replaced by visible frustration and disbelief. His finger trembled as he pointed it toward Henry, his voice laced with astonishment and a hint of anger.

"Why! You... You... How did you become this strong without the aid of the gods? Even the heroes of old relied on the blessings of the divine, even if indirectly!" The old man's words came out in a flurry, his emotions palpable as he struggled to comprehend the source of Henry's remarkable strength.

The old man, having lived for countless years and witnessed the feats of countless heroes, understood the immense power required to face the colossal monster they had just witnessed. He had observed the lad's battle, knowing full well the strength it would take to engage in a one-on-one confrontation with such a creature. Yet, against all odds, the young lad standing before him had emerged victorious, even if it had taken three grueling days.

The realization struck the old man with an even greater force. This lad possessed not only the potential to be a great hero but also a strength that surpassed what the old man had deemed possible for a mortal. It begged the question: How formidable would Henry become if he were to obtain a Falna, the divine blessing granted by a patron god?

The old man's frustration slowly gave way to a sense of awe and curiosity. He recognized that he stood in the presence of a remarkable individual, one whose power and potential exceeded his expectations. It was an opportunity he could not ignore.

Regaining his composure, the old man fixed his gaze upon Henry. His voice once filled with frustration, now held a newfound determination. "Young lad, forgive my outburst. Your strength is truly remarkable, unparalleled even among the heroes of old. How did you get this strong?" questioned the old man towards the young man Infront of him.

Henry couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the old man's question. To him, it seemed rather foolish and obvious. After all, did one really need a divine blessing, or "Falna," as the old man called it, to become strong? The idea baffled him, especially coming from someone who was supposed to be a god. Nevertheless, Henry chose to respond, his tone laced with a hint of sarcasm.

"Work hard, study well, eat and sleep plenty! That's how I train," he replied matter-of-factly. To him, it was a simple equation. Dedication, discipline, and taking care of one's body were the keys to physical and mental growth. He had trained relentlessly, pushing himself to the limit day after day, honing his skills and pushing past his own limitations.

The old man stared at Henry, his eyes wide with astonishment. He struggled to comprehend how a mere mortal, unaided by divine blessings, could achieve such extraordinary strength. It was a concept that shattered his beliefs and challenged everything he thought he knew, but this was one of the reasons that he came down to the lower realm to see the unknown.

A moment of silence hung in the air as the old man processed Henry's response. Finally, a smile crept across his face, a mix of admiration and fascination. "Well, young lad, it seems there is much more to your strength than meets the eye. Your determination and self-discipline are commendable."

Finally, with the ice broken that had tensed the atmosphere before, they were now chatting normally, with no one standing above the other or being too vigilant against each other.

"In this icy tundra, I only have myself and my companion, Tweety," Henry mentioned, as Tweety swooped down from the sky once more and perched on his shoulders. In its talons, it held small blue explosives that Henry had used against the troll. When Odin saw them, he couldn't help but sweet a little.

"Before we proceed, let's have a formal introduction, shall we, old man?" Henry asked, addressing Odin.

"Of course. Allow me to reintroduce myself first. I am Odin, a god who came from the upper world to the lower world in search of entertainment and mostly the unknown that holds in the lower realm! However, I am quite curious as to how you came to know one of my embarrassing titles," Odin proudly expressed to Henry. And as he inquires about the embarrassing title that he gains in the upper realm.

"Every man has his secrets, and I have mine, oh great god Odin. Allow me to introduce myself first. I am Henry, Henry Valentine." With a respectful gesture, Henry removed his helmet and placed it on his chest. Leaning his body forward, he bowed before Odin, showing his reverence and acknowledgment of the god's presence.

"Henry Valentine," Odin repeated the name with a nod of acknowledgment. "A valiant name befitting a warrior of your caliber, young Henry. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."

"Nice to be acquainted with you too, Great god Odin," Henry replied, his voice filled with respect but there was still vigilance in his tone of voice.

"You could just call me Odin, lad. No need for formalities," Odin said, his voice carrying a warm tone. He ran his fingers through his beard, a gesture of familiarity. As Odin had watched Henry for many days, he understood the reason behind the young warrior's vigilance.

"Okay, old man," Henry replied casually, the sense of reverence from before dissipating. He now addressed Odin without any formalities, reflecting a growing comfort between them.

Odin chuckled heartily, appreciating Henry's straightforward manner. "I see you have a direct way of speaking, Henry. I appreciate that." But Odin's mind ran differently when they had the first conversation and demeanors when they interact, he was elegant and quite eloquent, he thought the lad was a son of a runaway noble, but the change was quite surprising to him. The surprise is only in his mind, outwardly he still has a smile on his face.

"Let's move to a more suitable location for our conversation, old man," Henry suggested, his voice carrying a hint of exasperation.

"That would be quite nice, as my old bones can't quite handle this cold temperature," Odin replied, shivering involuntarily.

Henry gave Odin a deadpan stare, finding it amusing that a god, especially the king of gods from the Nordic pantheon, would be affected by the cold. It was a joke to him.

"Follow me, old man," Henry sighed, shaking his head. He donned his helmet once again and started walking across the snowfield, leading the way toward his modest house. And on the way the snowy field was littered with the corpses of various monsters, a testament to Henry's strength and the dangers he faced on a regular basis.

Behind him, the aftermath of the epic clash between him and the troll remained a scene that would be etched in the memory of the earth itself. Odin's two ravens soared through the sky, following their master as they moved to a more suitable location.

~~~SIX HOURS PASSED BY~~~

With the snow hut no longer feeling lonely, it now stood amidst a collection of various-sized buildings. Inside the house, a young man and an old man sat facing each other at the dining table. The warmth of the campfire filled the room, creating a cozy atmosphere. In one corner of the room, three birds perched on a wooden stand, observing the old man and the young man intently.

"It's quite interesting," Henry remarked, seeking confirmation. "So those who seek the gods to gain their blessings and obtain a Falna are called adventurers."

"Yes, that seems right," Odin replied with a nod of agreement.

Henry's curiosity sparked further as he continued, "And this Falna, it is a divine gift bestowed by the gods that enhances one's abilities and grant them power?"

Odin leaned back in his chair, a wise smile adorning his face. "Indeed, young Henry. The Falna is a sacred blessing given by the gods, imbuing adventurers with enhanced strength, skills, and attributes. It serves as a symbol of their connection to a patron deity, guiding them on their heroic endeavors."

Henry absorbed the information, his mind racing with newfound understanding. The concept of adventurers and their pursuit of divine blessings fascinated him, as did the potential it held for his own journey. But he knows better than to rely on something like a blessing from the gods, as he wrote everything down in his notebook.

"Tell me, Odin," Henry asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "What drove you, as a god, to descend to the lower world? And what led you to this snowy tundra and to stumble across my battles?"

Odin's eyes gleamed with a mix of amusement and wisdom. "Ah, young Henry, the realm of mortals has always intrigued the gods. The valor, the struggles, and the triumphs of heroes have captivated us since time immemorial and the most that we seek are the unknown. I sought to witness the birth of a new hero, one who defies expectations and overcomes even the mightiest of foes. And in you, I have found a true embodiment of strength and determination."

"HAHHAHAHAHAHAH! HAhahahhahah!"

As Henry heard Odin's words, he burst into laughter. The sound echoed throughout the living room of the cabin, filling the space with his contagious amusement. However, amidst his laughter, Henry noticed that Odin remained still, showing no reaction for quite some time.

"That was a truly funny joke, Old man," Henry managed to say, wiping the tears of laughter from his eyes. But as he observed Odin's expression, a shift occurred within Henry. His mirthful demeanor transformed into one of seriousness, because of the serious look that Odin gave to him.

"You were serious about it didn't you Odin," asked Henry towards Odin as he question his statement.

"Yes, I see a Hero in the making before my very eyes. Why do you laugh at it Henry?" Odin said it with a questioning tone toward Henry.

Henry pointed his finger at Odin, a hint of anger in his expression. "Listen, Odin, I am no hero, and I will never be. I'm just a man trying to survive in this harsh world. There's nothing heroic about me."

Odin leaned back in his chair, studying Henry intently. "Henry, heroes are not born with a label. They are forged through adversity, shaped by their choices, and defined by their actions. I have witnessed your strength first-hand, your unwavering courage in the face of danger. You may not see it in yourself, but the potential for greatness lies within you."

Upon hearing Odin's words, Henry let out a low chuckle. "You think I'm some naïve child, easily swayed by your eloquent words, Odin! Being a hero is nothing but a fool's errand."

Odin's gaze remained steady, undeterred by Henry's skepticism. "Henry, I do not offer eloquent words to sway you, nor do I seek to deceive you. I have seen countless individuals throughout the ages, and I recognize the spark of greatness within you. But whether or not you choose to embrace it, to walk the path of a hero, is entirely up to you."

Henry paused for a moment, his mind racing as he finally pieced everything together. He realized that he had been baited and had taken the hook willingly.

"So, you want me to join your 'Familia'?" Henry asked, his voice calm but filled with deep frustration.

"You catch on quickly, Henry. Yes, I want you to join my 'Familia'. Are you willing to join?" Odin replied, his eyes fixed on Henry.

"How many adventurers are currently in your 'Familia', Odin?" Henry inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"None. If you join, you will be the first official member in my long life in the lower world," Odin answered.

Silence filled the cabin once more as Henry placed his hand on his chin, deep in thought. But suddenly, he stood up from his chair and pointed his finger directly at Odin.

Henry's face hardened, his voice filled with unwavering conviction as he yelled, "I REFUSE!"

Odin's expression shifted, a mix of surprise and curiosity evident in his eyes. He leaned forward, intrigued by Henry's response. "You refuse? Why is that, Henry?"

But at the same time, he wasn't that surprised he saw first-hand what strength Henry has and is still relatively young his future is endless even without the Falna he could defeat a monster that rivals or even suppress one of the three great quest monsters. And of the shortcoming of the young are pride and arrogance.

Henry stood tall; his gaze unwavering as he explained his stance. "Why it's quite simple, Odin one of my favorite things to do is tell someone that is all-knowing 'No'."

Odin didn't get angry or mad at Henry's response. Instead, he let out a low chuckle and leaned back in his chair, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"Hahaha, I see," Odin said, a smile forming on his face. "You truly are an interesting individual, Henry. Your spirit will remind me of the heroes of old, those who carved their own paths and challenged the unknowns."

Henry remained firm, his expression resolute. "I appreciate your understanding, Odin. It's not about disrespect or defiance towards you personally, but rather a choice to pursue my own journey and prove my worth on my own terms."

Odin nodded, his smile widening. "Indeed, Henry. The path of every person is one of individuality and self-discovery. It is not for everyone to follow, and I respect your decision. Should you ever need guidance or assistance, remember that I am always watching, ready to lend a hand."

Henry acknowledged Odin's words with a nod of gratitude. "Thank you, Odin. I will keep that in mind. Our encounter has been enlightening, to say the least. But let's change the subject."

"To what, lad?" asked Odin, watching as Henry walked towards the kitchen of the log cabin. Henry opened the counter and pulled out two large pint glasses, placing them on the counter.

"Do you want to have a drink?" Henry asked as he looked back towards Odin with a hospitable smile on his face.

Odin chuckled and nodded. "A drink sounds delightful, Henry. I would gladly join you."

Henry opened one of the cabinets of the kitchen that stored his keg of ale that he has gotten as he poured it into his glass, the rich aroma filling the air. He walked back towards the dining table, as he slid one glass towards Odin, and raised his own in a toast.

"To unexpected encounters and the journeys we choose," Henry said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Odin raised his glass in response. "To the unpredictable paths that lead us to greatness," he replied.

And as the two raised their glasses and took a sip, the cabin was filled with a sense of camaraderie and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. The gods and mortals, linked by their choices, shared a moment of understanding and mutual respect.

The next morning

As he opened his eyes, he couldn't help but quickly shield them from the blinding rays of the sun. After several minutes, he adjusted to the light, allowing him to take in his surroundings. He found himself in a room, and his gaze fell upon a pint glass resting on the table. The memories of the previous night flooded back to him.

He recalled drinking with Henry until he was completely intoxicated. Despite being a god, he possessed a mortal body, and this was the first time he had ever been drunk. The ale that Henry had served rivaled even the divine wine he could obtain from the upper realms.

Odin slowly rose from the table, his head still heavy from the effects of the alcohol. He surveyed the room, noticing the remnants of their lively conversation and laughter scattered about. As he walked towards the window, he pulled back the curtains, revealing a breathtaking view of the snow-covered landscape.

The events of the previous night replayed in his mind, the jovial atmosphere and the exchange of stories and knowledge. It had been a long time since Odin had experienced such genuine camaraderie with a mortal. Henry's resilience, strength, and refusal to conform had intrigued him.

"I must admit, Henry Valentine, you have piqued my curiosity," Odin murmured to himself. "There is something extraordinary about you."

As he stood there, lost in thought, did he finely notice where is Henry? He a god has gotten dead drunk but why not him? that's the question that lingers in Odin's thoughts now That thought puzzled him, lingering in his mind as he made his way towards the door to step outside. However, his path was obstructed by Henry's companion, Tweety.

"Twee... Twee," Tweety chirped, fluttering in front of Odin and blocking his way.

Odin tilted his head, looking at the small bird with curiosity. It seemed that Tweety had something to communicate, perhaps a message from Henry.

"What is it, Tweety?" Odin asked, his voice filled with genuine interest. He extended his hand, offering a perch for the bird.

Tweety hopped onto Odin's outstretched hand and chirped excitedly, fluttering its wings. It seemed to be trying to convey something important. Odin focused his attention, trying to understand the bird's message.

"So, you want me to follow you to find Henry?" Odin asked the bird, his voice filled with determination. It didn't take long for him to receive confirmation as the bird nodded its head and flew towards one of the small houses nearby.

Odin wasted no time and swiftly followed the bird's lead. As he entered the house, he took in the familiar yet ordinary interior. However, his attention was drawn to a peculiar feature in the house—a staircase that seemed to lead to a mine or a basement, that was lit a many torch that is attached to the wall.

As Odin watched, Tweety flew down the staircase, and he followed suit. After walking down what seemed to be hundreds of staircases, they finally reached a floor that led to a door. As Odin reached the door, he could hear the heavy breathing of somebody.

With a steady hand, Odin pushed open the door and entered the room. There, he saw a massive room filled with various training equipment, each side adorned with cubic meter blocks of iron. He also noticed some blocks made of gold scattered throughout the room, evidently used as weights for training. Now, Odin understood why Henry possessed unimaginable strength even without the Falna.

However, the biggest surprise awaited him at the end of the room, where Henry stood amidst a field-like setup. He saw numerous chains dangling from the ceiling, each holding a block of iron. The massive weights swung across the air with incredible speed, attempting to hit Henry, who stood in the middle of the field.

Odin watched in astonishment as Henry skillfully evaded the iron blocks with minimal movement. But what truly surprised him was the fact that Henry was blindfolded while performing these dodges. As the iron blocks began to slow down, Henry delivered powerful punches, striking them as they swung once more.

Odin continued to observe this remarkable display for several minutes until Henry finally ceased his movements, with the stopping of the iron blocks. His body was drenched in sweat, and Odin couldn't fathom how long Henry had trained in this space before his arrival.

"Old man, you've finally awakened. It was quite surprising to see a god get dead drunk after only a couple of pints," Henry said in a friendly tone as he approached Odin, stepping off the field. He removed the blindfold that had covered his face.

"Hahaha, indeed your ale was one of a kind in the lower world," Odin replied with a chuckle.

"Hahaha, that's good to hear," Henry laughed, his voice filled with warmth and camaraderie. The two friends shared a moment of lightheartedness, appreciating the humor in Odin's unexpected bout of intoxication.

As Odin brushed his beard, curiosity laced his tone as he asked Henry, "How long have you been training, Henry?"

"Hmm," Henry pulled out a pocket watch from his pants pocket, checking the time. It was already high noon.

"I have been training since before sunrise. Why do you ask, old man?" Henry replied.

"Hmm, that explains the strength you possess, capable of slaying that monster," Odin mused.

"That's just the beginning, old man. I have yet to reach my prime," Henry responded confidently. "Now, let's go back to the house. You must be quite hungry, old man."

Henry walked towards the door, with Odin following alongside him. Tweety flew ahead of them, leading the way.

It didn't take them long to reach the log cabins. Odin settled into a chair while Henry busied himself in the kitchen, preparing food. Tweety perched on top of the cabin, eagerly waiting for his meal as well.

After several minutes had passed, the food was finished. The entire cabin was filled with the delicious scent of cooked meat, as there were no vegetables in sight. A pint of water accompanied the hearty feast.

"Tweet..." Tweety chirped, expressing his anticipation for his food.

"Yes, yes, I didn't forget about you, Tweety. Here's your meal," Henry replied, handing Tweety a bowl filled with meat from the sea beasts he had acquired in large batches from the system.

"Tweet... tweet..." Tweety nodded his head joyfully, immediately burying his face in the bowl and devouring his meal.

After tending to Tweety, Henry approached the dining table, noticing Odin's anticipation for the food. Henry placed the plates of food on the table, placing a normal-sized cut of steak in front of Odin. However, the plate set before Henry could only be described as a tower of meat meant solely for himself.

"Enjoy your meal, old man," Henry said with a grin, taking his seat at the table.

Odin's eyes widened as he looked at the towering pile of meat before Henry. "lad, are you planning to devour a whole herd of animals by yourself?"

Henry chuckled heartily. "Well, you know me, old man. I need to fuel this body of mine to keep up with the training. Besides, I've developed quite the appetite."

Odin shook his head in amusement, picking up his fork and knife to begin his own meal. The aroma of the cooked meat filled the room, making his mouth water. As he took a bite of the tender steak, flavors exploded in his mouth, satisfying his hunger.

"Mmm, Henry, you've truly outdone yourself. This food is exceptional," Odin complimented, savoring each bite.

Henry had a smile on his face. "Glad you like it, old man. Though my cooking may not be the best out there, it's always made with the best that I could do."

Odin chuckled, appreciating Henry's modesty. "It has made my hangover disappear when I took a bite, it's delicious and satisfying, just what I need for the start of a day."

Henry's smile widened. "Well, if it brings joy to your taste buds, then it's worth all the effort."

Odin nodded, his eyes filled with gratitude. "And I am grateful for your care and provision, my friend."

The two mortal and a god enjoyed their meal in comfortable silence, appreciating the flavors and the satisfying sound of their forks clinking against the plates. Tweety continued to feast on his bowl of meat, occasionally letting out contented chirps.

As they finished their meal, Odin leaned back in his chair, patting his satisfied belly. "Lad, I must say, this was a feast fit for warriors."

Henry nodded, wiping his mouth with a napkin. After he quite easily eats the tower of meat, "Indeed old man, it was quite a satisfying meal."

As they sat at the table, a sense of curiosity sparked in Henry's eyes. He leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Odin. "Old man, I've been meaning to ask you something. Where exactly are we, old man?"

"Well, the place we are in now is mostly uncharted territory. It is known as the 'Dragon Valley'," Odin replied. He couldn't help but wonder why Henry, being a knowledgeable lad, seemed unaware of basic information about the world they inhabited. The age of gods had persisted for thousands of years, after all.

Henry gave Odin a faint smile. "My parents never really told me much about the inner workings of the world. Even as I grew older, they only taught me how to survive in this harsh, cold tundra. And after they passed away, I couldn't find any books or resources in this house that shed light on the outside world. That's why, old man, I remain ignorant about many things."

He knew he hadn't told the whole truth, but what he had said wasn't far from it. It was a white lie, a carefully crafted omission. The reality of his origins, his connection to this world, and the existence of the system were better left unsaid and unknown. Henry understood that revealing the truth could have unforeseen consequences, and he couldn't predict what the outcome might be if the truth were to come out.

Henry had yet to discover the true nature of the gods that resided in this world. So far, he had only encountered Odin, who appeared to be quite mild-mannered. But it had only been a day since they met, and Henry knew that building trust takes time. Perhaps, over the course of a year or two, their bond would deepen, and he would come to understand Odin and the other gods more intimately. But that was for the future.

When Odin heard Henry's answer, he sensed that Henry hadn't shared the complete truth, but he understood that sometimes certain truths were better left unsaid and unknown. There was an air of secrecy surrounding Henry, and Odin couldn't help but wonder about the hidden depths within him. However, he respected the young lad's privacy and chose not to press the matter further.

Odin's expression softened as he understood Henry's situation. "I see, my young friend. It's unfortunate that you were deprived of such knowledge. But fear not, for I shall gladly share what I know and guide you through the intricacies of the world."

Henry's eyes brightened with gratitude. "Thank you, old man. I appreciate your willingness to enlighten me. I believe there is much I can learn from you."

"What should we start with, lad?" asked Odin.

"I am quite curious. You mentioned that the place we are in now is one of the uncharted territories in the lower world. Are there other uncharted lands besides Dragon's Valley?" Henry's curiosity was piqued, eager to learn about other unknown regions.

"Well, there are three great unexplored regions of the world. One is Dragon's Valley, the second is known as the Center of the World or, more commonly, the Labyrinth City of Orario. And the last one lies beyond the seas of the continent. These are the three," Odin explained to Henry.

Henry swiftly pulled out the notebook he had used when they first met, diligently jotting down the information as Odin spoke. He was particularly intrigued by one of them, "The Labyrinth City of Orario? Why does a city become unchartered land? And lastly, why does it call the center of the world?"

"It's not the city itself that is uncharted, but rather what lies beneath it. The Labyrinth City of Orario serves as a bastion, keeping the monsters inside the dungeon at bay. It is called the center of the world for several reasons. Firstly, it acts as a hub for the economies of various kingdoms and empires, serving as a central trading point. Secondly, adventurers from all corners of the world gather there, seeking fame, fortune, and the blessings of the gods. Lastly, it is a place where different races coexist in harmony, creating a unique melting pot of cultures and beings."

Odin's words painted a vivid picture in Henry's mind. The Labyrinth City of Orario seemed like a place of immense importance and intrigue. Its underground labyrinth, shrouded in mystery, held countless secrets and treasures waiting to be discovered. The bustling city aboveground, with its diverse population and thriving trade, held the promise of endless adventures and opportunities.

"That's quite interesting. So, most of the gods from the upper realm gather in the city of Orario? This raises the question: does the city have an owner or ruler of some sort? And what kinds of races exist in this world?" Henry fiddled with his pen, his curiosity piqued as he awaited Odin's answer.

"You truly don't know about the different races in the world, but let me enlighten you then. There are multiple races inhabiting this continent, ranging from elves, dwarves, pallums, amazons, beastmen, and humans," Odin replied, his voice filled with wisdom.

"Yes, the gods mostly gather in the city of Orario, but some also venture far from it, inhabiting other cities, empires, or similar places," Odin continued, elaborating on Henry's question.

"And as for the city of Orario," Odin continued, "it does indeed have an owner of sorts. The ruler of the city is Ouranos, a god revered by its inhabitants. Ouranos oversees the governance and affairs of the city, ensuring its stability and prosperity. However, Ouranos follows the philosophy of ruling but not governing, leaving the matters of the Guild to handle the day-to-day operations."

Henry nodded, absorbing the information. "So Ouranos is more of a figurehead ruler, entrusting the management of the city to the Guild. That's an interesting approach.

"However, it's worth noting that the city is not solely governed by one god. Various gods hold influence and authority within Orario, shaping its destiny and playing vital roles in the lives of adventurers and residents alike," Odin clarified.

"Hmm, how long has Ouranos governed the city of Orario? And are there any gods who hold comparable authority that could rival Ouranos?" Henry inquired with growing intrigue. As this was quite important, what kind of god hold the same authority as the primordial deity?

"He is quite an ancient god, as he and I descended together a thousand years ago when the world was still in the age of heroes and monsters still ravaged the land," Odin explained, his voice filled with reminiscence. "Ouranos could be considered the founder of the present-day Orario, and he was the first god to grant a Falna, guiding the city's development throughout the centuries. As for beings that could rival Ouranos' authority in Orario, the top familia of Orario, including the Zeus and Hera Familia, are known for their immense power and influence."

Henry's curiosity was piqued as Odin mentioned three renowned figures from Greek mythology. These names held significance and familiarity to Henry, as he had learned about them in his previous world. Ouranos, the primordial deity of the sky, and Zeus, the god of thunder, were known to be kings among gods. Alongside Zeus, there was Hera, the goddess of lawful marriage, who served as his queen.

But the key thing that he captured was their immense power, whether it be in terms of influence or strength. Ouranos, as the first god to descend to the lower world, held a position of great significance. On the other hand, Zeus and Hera commanded a familia that was renowned throughout the world for their unparalleled strength.

Henry couldn't help but wonder about the extent of their power. Turning to Odin, he asked with genuine curiosity, "Old man, just how strong are they? Are they truly as formidable as their reputation suggests?"

"Well, the strength of the Zeus and Hera Familia lies in the adventurers who comprise their ranks," Odin clarified. "The adventurers of the two Familia are the best of the best, the world has. As their captain each of their Familia is a high-level adventurer, they are level 8 and 9 respectively."

When Henry heard this, he could not help but have a confused look on his face. He knew what levels meant, but this was the first time he had heard of the Falna having one. When Henry had this confused look, Odin quickly noticed.

"Ah, yes, it seems that I have not told you about the level system that the Falna has. I'll make it simple level 1 is the lowest level adventurer the higher the level they are the more powerful they became." Odin explains in layman's terms about the Falna to Henry.

"do you mind a more inadept explanation of the Falna Old man?" Henry asks Odin.

"Of course," Odin replied, smiling.

For an hour, Odin explained the workings of the Falna system to Henry. He described how status is determined, how Excelia is earned through actions like fighting monsters, and the basic abilities that encompass Strength, Endurance, Dexterity, Agility, and Magic. Lastly, Odin focused on the two most important aspects of the Falna system: the level and rank-up.

"The level represents a person's rank. It is the most significant part of their status, as someone of a higher level is generally superior to those at lower levels. However, there are exceptions to this rule," Odin explained.

He then elaborated on the rank-up process. "Ranking up involves ascending to a higher level. It's not as straightforward as defeating monsters. To level up, one must have at least a D rank in one basic ability and accumulate enough high-quality Excelia to overflow their container, enabling them to level up."

Odin also mentioned three other important elements. Upon gaining the Falna, there is a chance to unlock skills, magic, and development abilities as one level up.

After Odin's hour-long explanation, Henry finished writing down the key points. However, he couldn't help but wonder about the strength of Hodag, the troll he had fought, in the Falna level system.

"How strong would Hodag the troll be in the Falna level system, old man?" Henry asked. He had this question because while he understood the Falna system, he wasn't familiar with the specific power levels associated with each level, such as the difference between level 1 and level 5 strength.

"Hmm, quite interesting. I would say his strength would range from low to mid-level 7, considering his vitality, regeneration, and ice manipulation," Odin replied, stroking his beard as he looked towards the ceiling of the room. "With those additional abilities factored in, he could even be level 8 or higher in strength."

When Henry heard Odin's answer, he was quite shocked, to say the least. He couldn't believe that Hodag, in Odin's eyes, possessed such formidable strength. Henry didn't question Odin's assessment, as it made sense. After all, Odin was a god, particularly known for his wisdom. There was no reason for him to lie or deceive Henry about Hodag's strength.

During the fight, Henry had been well aware that he was outclassed in terms of raw strength. Hodag's superior strength had posed a significant challenge, but it was his impressive regeneration ability that proved to be the biggest obstacle. If Henry hadn't had the burial blade with him, the outcome of the fight would have been completely different. The weapon's unique properties had played a crucial role in giving Henry a fighting chance against Hodag.

Acknowledging the significance of the burial blade's role in the fight, Henry recognized that without it, his chances of victory would have been significantly diminished. The combination of Gandalf, Hamon, and Haki provided him with additional tools, but the decisive factor was the weapon that ultimately sealed Hodag's fate.

After Odin finished his explanation, he looked at Henry and asked, "Did my answer satisfy your question, lad?"

Henry nodded and replied, "Indeed, old man. It was enlightening, to say the least."

Soon Their day was filled with Henry asking questions and Odin patiently providing answers. The discussions continued into the evening, with the moon now high in the sky.

Henry's notebook was filled with valuable knowledge, capturing the essence of their conversation. His goal was to absorb as much information as possible, driven by a thirst for understanding the world around him.

With the moon casting a gentle glow over the log cabins, they finally decided to retire for the night.

This routine continued for a couple more days, with Henry acquiring and digesting an increasing amount of knowledge about the world from Odin. However, Henry knew that days like these would eventually come to an end, and today happened to be that day.

Standing in front of his house, Henry looked at Odin, who was dressed in the same manner as when they first met, with his hand resting on his spear-like walking stick and his two ravens perched on his shoulders.

"Time does fly quickly... doesn't it, young lad?" Odin remarked.

"Indeed, old man, it flies by quickly," Henry replied.

There was a moment of awkward silence hanging in the air, but it was quickly broken by the soft chuckles that emanated from both Odin and Henry.

"Hahaha," they laughed together.

"Hahaha... this is not a goodbye, lad," Odin said, his voice carrying a sense of reassurance.

"Hahaha... I know, old man. No need to reassure me. I am no child," Henry replied with a hint of amusement.

After he said this, Tweety, who was perched on top of the cabin, joined in as well.

"Twee... twee..." Tweety nodded his head multiple times.

"Even Tweety agreed. Rather than this, you should be on your way, old man," Henry said to Odin, with a beaming smile on his face.

Odin laughed once again as he slowly walked towards the forest, speaking, "Hahahaha... Alright, I'll go. See you next time, young Henry and Tweety." After his figure slowly disappeared at the edge of the forest.

Henry could feel Odin was no longer near the area with his Haki. As he speculated, Odin must have used some space runes to teleport away. But this mattered not to him now because after the appearance of Odin and the knowledge he had gained in this encounter, he must not hesitate any longer.

"Indeed, until we meet again, Odin," Henry said under his breath as he slowly walked back into his house. Tweety followed along as they both got in the house.

Henry did what he always did at this time: read. But he reread all the content of the conversation with Odin. He knew Odin had left something important for him. This didn't bother him at all, as he, too, had not revealed how he knew or why he knew Odin's titles as a god. He pondered the world he now lived in, called Genkai, also known as the lower world, while the upper world was called Tenkai.

From his conversation with Odin, Henry learned that the gods came down to Genkai in search of entertainment or the unowned. However, Odin seemed to have a different agenda from the rest of the gods, with Ouranos as his accomplice. But Henry did not see it as his problem to worry about. The last two pieces of knowledge he had gained that made him fearful of this world were that the gods had lived for millions of years in Tenkai, and that mortals could not lie in the face of a god.

Soon, night came, and after Henry finished his dinner with Tweety, he got up from his chair as the time had come. He walked over to the corridor of the house, then went towards the carpet that was hiding the trap door. He pushed the carpet aside and opened the trap door to the basement. As he slowly descended the ladder, it didn't take long for him to reach the basement.

The basement, which was quite small before, was now much bigger and larger than before, filled with chests and items that Henry had acquired with the system. He felt that some of these items were not quite important, so he tried to mostly put the important and useful things in the system's inventory. As he gazed at one of the corners where many crates were piled up, Henry's eyes were now fixated.

The most annoying thing was that he always seemed to get [A crate full of spices], which he didn't need. And the last time was like pouring salt on an open wound, quite literally, as he received [A crate full of Salt]. Just why?

This frustration was only a small episode, as Henry now had more important things to do. He walked towards the end of the extended basement where he had built a large area that led to a single, massive door frame, which in turn led to a stone wall. Why did he make it? Because of the three items he had obtained from the system.

"[Battle Arena goblin invasion TR 3*]," "[Battle arena undead hoard of the night MC 3*]," and "[Battle arena pirate invasion TR 3*]" were three items shaped like keys. However, they required a catalyst to be used, and that catalyst was a door.

Henry had been hesitant to use them, but now he would not hesitate. This world had turned from fantasy to a nightmare for him after meeting the great king of gods of the Nordic pantheon, Odin.

But it wasn't just 3 items that made him hesitate so much. It was the item he had obtained from the point pull: [Soul of the sun knight DS 4*]. As he pulled out the item from the system space and looked at it, or rather, the soul that seemed to be present within it, he felt something unusual. It was strange, to say the least. He could feel the soul in his hand, and yet it was intangible.

The soul in his hand felt like a soft ray of sunlight, its golden glow was so mesmerizing one could be lost by its dazzling light. Henry shook his head, realizing he had gotten off track again, engrossed in the novel sensation of holding something that was once metaphysical and intangible.

There was wariness in Henry's eyes as he looked at the golden-colored soul in his hand. He reread the description once more, further adding to his caution.

[The soul of the sun knight, known as Solaire of Astora a warrior who purposefully became Undead so he could visit Lordran in his quest to find a sun of his own. When you crust the soul you will gain the memory and experience of the soul, and your soul would gain more strength.

"Oh, hello there. I will stay behind, to gaze at the sun. The sun is a wondrous body. Like a magnificent father! If only I could be so grossly incandescent!"]

The sudden influx of foreign memories into his mind was a frightening experience for Henry just thinking about it. Although he had received some memories from Noah when he arrived here, they were incomplete and didn't disturb his mind and psyche too much.

Henry was unsure to what extent the soul would give him memories, and he feared that it would change him. He remembered that gods like Ouranos, Zeus, and Hera still held the pinnacle of world power. Even with Odin acknowledging the Hodag's strength, which was on par with the adventurer captain of the Zeus and Hera Familia, he had to resort to external means to defeat him. he still feels very weak.

He knew he only need time to fix all these problems, but he lacks in many things now knowledge, experience, and power. But the one thing that he truly lacks in the world of fantasy is magic he has too little of it and all of the is tools rather than knowledge that he could learn. Maybe he will gain it after he absorbed the soul. And maybe find a way to kill the gods, but this was only his wishful thinking.

One of the reasons he chose to do this at night was the hope that Odin was not near his home or had seen the golden soul in his hands. As one of the gods associated with death, Odin would surely notice something as significant as this. Henry wanted to keep his actions and the acquisition of the soul hidden from the prying eyes of the gods.

Henry snapped out of his thoughts; his eyes fixed on the golden, glowing soul. With each passing second, his gaze grew firmer as he stared at the ethereal object floating in the palm of his hand.

"No hesitation," Henry declared as he firmly grasped the soul and... crushed it with his hands.

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Author's notes:

I hope you enjoyed reading it. I had a very difficult time writing the dialogue in this chapter. I apologize for any grammatical errors, and if you notice any, please help by pointing them out in the comments. Lastly, thank you for reading.

Also, if you have any ideas for items and skills to include in the lottery system, please leave a comment.

Henrys Picture