Timeline in the story: Post Worm directly after two to the head. Pre-Thor (movie).
I'll be...
I'll be...
The Valkyrior (MCU Thor/Worm)
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Index
Heather Sinclair
Verified Force User
Timeline in the story: Post Worm directly after two to the head. Pre-Thor (movie).
I'll be mixing in a slight bit of Marvel comics Thor-verse into the story when dealing with the Valkyrior since they haven't made an appearance in MCU canon as of yet.
Index
Intro: Valhalla
Arc 1: Asgard - 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4
Arc 2: S.H.I.E.L.D. - 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4
Arc 3: New Mexico - 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5
Arc 4: Winter is Coming - 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4
Omakes:
The Kodan Armada
Bar Hopping with Cap!
Pics:
I'll be mixing in a slight bit of Marvel comics Thor-verse into the story when dealing with the Valkyrior since they haven't made an appearance in MCU canon as of yet.
Index
Intro: Valhalla
Arc 1: Asgard - 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4
Arc 2: S.H.I.E.L.D. - 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4
Arc 3: New Mexico - 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5
Arc 4: Winter is Coming - 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4
Omakes:
The Kodan Armada
Bar Hopping with Cap!
Pics:
5/18/2010 - 10/24/2010 Iron Man 1
2/25/2011 - 6/4/2011 Incredible Hulk
4/?/2011 Taylor arrives in Valhalla
4/22/2011 - 5/31/2011 Iron Man 2
4/26/2011 Taylor Arrives from Asgard
4/30/2011 Taylor is interrogated by Agent Coulson
5/30/2011 - 6/2/2011 Thor 1
4/16/2012 - Steve Rogers is thawed out of ice.
5/1/2012 - 5/5/2012 Avengers 1
12/18/2012 - 12/27/2012 Iron Man 3
9/24/2013 Agent's of SHIELD Season 1 begins.
10/30/2013 - 11/4/2013 Thor 2
3/31/2014 - 4/4/2014 Captain America 2
4/4/2014 SHIELD Civil War with Hydra begins
2/25/2011 - 6/4/2011 Incredible Hulk
4/?/2011 Taylor arrives in Valhalla
4/22/2011 - 5/31/2011 Iron Man 2
4/26/2011 Taylor Arrives from Asgard
4/30/2011 Taylor is interrogated by Agent Coulson
5/30/2011 - 6/2/2011 Thor 1
4/16/2012 - Steve Rogers is thawed out of ice.
5/1/2012 - 5/5/2012 Avengers 1
12/18/2012 - 12/27/2012 Iron Man 3
9/24/2013 Agent's of SHIELD Season 1 begins.
10/30/2013 - 11/4/2013 Thor 2
3/31/2014 - 4/4/2014 Captain America 2
4/4/2014 SHIELD Civil War with Hydra begins
Last edited:
Introduction - Valhalla
Heather Sinclair
Verified Force User
Intro
I shouldn't be here.
A single day amongst the largest collection of heroes I'd never even heard of.
They'd left me alone for the most part at a small collection of tables with a large hunk of some sort of meat, boiled potatoes, and a giant mug of honey mead. Birger, the self-appointed receptionist, told me two things upon my arrival: eat as much as I want and drink as much as I want, that and everyone would give me a little time to acclimate before descending upon me wanting to know how I got there.
Apparently, the only form of entertainment was telling war stories. I had no desire to take part in the other two forms: wrestling and feats of strength. Vikings were a really weird bunch.
Not to say that was all that was here, but they took up the vast majority. There were others, actual capes, but none that I recognized. They mostly kept to themselves in the corner farthest away from me. I figured it was for the best. If they recognized me, then things might get a little dicey.
That was the thing though. I wasn't wearing anything that could give me away, just a pair of jeans, and a gray hoodie. I don't remember the last time I was out of costume, and those times were usually because I was asleep.
The mead was thick and sweet, and the light alcoholic buzz in my head was near constant. Normally, I wouldn't even think about getting drunk, but seriously, after what I'd been through for the last few years, I figured I was due – below drinking age or not. At least I was considered an adult now.
Happy birthday, the Apocalypse is here; I hope you didn't have anything planned.
"It's time," a familiar male voice said from my left.
I jerked in response. I don't remember the last time someone had the ability to sneak up on me. I'd gotten so used to having my bugs scouting every square inch of the area, nobody had the chance, but at the moment I was powerless.
Thanks, Contessa – bitch.
Birger stood there for a moment and then took a seat at the bench cattycorner to me.
"Time for what?" I asked warily.
"Your story. How you managed to arrive in Valhalla. Not many women of your… build can accomplish the feat. This should make a grand tale for the evening feast."
Build, right.
I managed five-eleven before taking two to the back of the head there at the end, but I was still skinny, or maybe lean would be a better word. Years of constant training and battles gave me a decent amount of muscle, but it wasn't anything like some of the musclebound women present. Shield Maidens if I had to hazard a guess.
"Killed a lot of people, saved the world," I said dismissively. "I honestly don't know how I got here."
He nodded and let a grim smile fade away before tossing his head back, flinging long wavy red hair behind his shoulder. "Brunnhilde brought you herself."
That name meant something to me, as if it was hidden in the recesses of my brain peeking its head out and waving slightly. It was a Norse name, obviously, but that wasn't anything out of the ordinary considering where I was. I could make the connections though: Valhalla, two to the head, lots of Vikings… or maybe Asgardians.
"A valkyrie brought me?"
"Not just any valkyrie," he answered. "The leader of the Valkyrior herself, Odin's first chosen. It takes a special type of warrior to draw her attention outside of battle. So… your tale."
This wasn't something I was particularly interested in relating. While I didn't recognize any of the more modern inhabitants of the place, I wasn't exactly memorizing all the faces and costumes while I was snatching people across the numerous worlds and throwing them at Scion. Some of them might very well take exception of me being in a place meant for the honored dead. I knew the concept of where I was; I also knew that it didn't really mean anything to me in the grand scheme of things.
Valhalla was supposedly in Asgard, part of the nine realms, supposedly in a different dimension from Earth's. The honored dead resided there until Asgard's own apocalypse, Ragnarök, came about. At that point they would be released for the final battle… or something along those lines. I wasn't exactly an expert on the subject, but I did run across the topic during my studies.
Who knew my GED would actually come in useful for once?
"No thanks," I started to say, but the main door opened, cutting me off halfway through the denial.
An extremely tall blonde woman took two steps inside and her attention was immediately on me. Piecemeal silver armor faded away around her into a blue lightshow that dissipated as fast as her protection. What could only be called leather britches and some kind of jerkin was all that was left, but she still held onto a very large and lethal looking ornate spear resting in her grip at her side.
"Taylor Hebert of Earth Bet," she announced to everyone. "The All-Father commands your presence."
Birger turned back to me. "Well, you don't see that all too often. Off you go, Taylor Hebert. It's best not to keep Odin waiting."
I shouldn't be here.
A single day amongst the largest collection of heroes I'd never even heard of.
They'd left me alone for the most part at a small collection of tables with a large hunk of some sort of meat, boiled potatoes, and a giant mug of honey mead. Birger, the self-appointed receptionist, told me two things upon my arrival: eat as much as I want and drink as much as I want, that and everyone would give me a little time to acclimate before descending upon me wanting to know how I got there.
Apparently, the only form of entertainment was telling war stories. I had no desire to take part in the other two forms: wrestling and feats of strength. Vikings were a really weird bunch.
Not to say that was all that was here, but they took up the vast majority. There were others, actual capes, but none that I recognized. They mostly kept to themselves in the corner farthest away from me. I figured it was for the best. If they recognized me, then things might get a little dicey.
That was the thing though. I wasn't wearing anything that could give me away, just a pair of jeans, and a gray hoodie. I don't remember the last time I was out of costume, and those times were usually because I was asleep.
The mead was thick and sweet, and the light alcoholic buzz in my head was near constant. Normally, I wouldn't even think about getting drunk, but seriously, after what I'd been through for the last few years, I figured I was due – below drinking age or not. At least I was considered an adult now.
Happy birthday, the Apocalypse is here; I hope you didn't have anything planned.
"It's time," a familiar male voice said from my left.
I jerked in response. I don't remember the last time someone had the ability to sneak up on me. I'd gotten so used to having my bugs scouting every square inch of the area, nobody had the chance, but at the moment I was powerless.
Thanks, Contessa – bitch.
Birger stood there for a moment and then took a seat at the bench cattycorner to me.
"Time for what?" I asked warily.
"Your story. How you managed to arrive in Valhalla. Not many women of your… build can accomplish the feat. This should make a grand tale for the evening feast."
Build, right.
I managed five-eleven before taking two to the back of the head there at the end, but I was still skinny, or maybe lean would be a better word. Years of constant training and battles gave me a decent amount of muscle, but it wasn't anything like some of the musclebound women present. Shield Maidens if I had to hazard a guess.
"Killed a lot of people, saved the world," I said dismissively. "I honestly don't know how I got here."
He nodded and let a grim smile fade away before tossing his head back, flinging long wavy red hair behind his shoulder. "Brunnhilde brought you herself."
That name meant something to me, as if it was hidden in the recesses of my brain peeking its head out and waving slightly. It was a Norse name, obviously, but that wasn't anything out of the ordinary considering where I was. I could make the connections though: Valhalla, two to the head, lots of Vikings… or maybe Asgardians.
"A valkyrie brought me?"
"Not just any valkyrie," he answered. "The leader of the Valkyrior herself, Odin's first chosen. It takes a special type of warrior to draw her attention outside of battle. So… your tale."
This wasn't something I was particularly interested in relating. While I didn't recognize any of the more modern inhabitants of the place, I wasn't exactly memorizing all the faces and costumes while I was snatching people across the numerous worlds and throwing them at Scion. Some of them might very well take exception of me being in a place meant for the honored dead. I knew the concept of where I was; I also knew that it didn't really mean anything to me in the grand scheme of things.
Valhalla was supposedly in Asgard, part of the nine realms, supposedly in a different dimension from Earth's. The honored dead resided there until Asgard's own apocalypse, Ragnarök, came about. At that point they would be released for the final battle… or something along those lines. I wasn't exactly an expert on the subject, but I did run across the topic during my studies.
Who knew my GED would actually come in useful for once?
"No thanks," I started to say, but the main door opened, cutting me off halfway through the denial.
An extremely tall blonde woman took two steps inside and her attention was immediately on me. Piecemeal silver armor faded away around her into a blue lightshow that dissipated as fast as her protection. What could only be called leather britches and some kind of jerkin was all that was left, but she still held onto a very large and lethal looking ornate spear resting in her grip at her side.
"Taylor Hebert of Earth Bet," she announced to everyone. "The All-Father commands your presence."
Birger turned back to me. "Well, you don't see that all too often. Off you go, Taylor Hebert. It's best not to keep Odin waiting."
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Asgard 1.1
Heather Sinclair
Verified Force User
When I approached Brunnhilda she set the end of the spear she was holding on the floor and gestured with the shaft toward me. I ignored it for a few seconds in lieu of the person that would be escorting me. Most women I've come to know on Earth Bet were shorter than I was, so it was somewhat novel to see that she had me by at least two inches if not more due to her boots. Corn silk blonde hair reached just past the small of her back with two thick braids and numerous smaller ones on either side of her face. Other than that, Brunnhilda was like most of the more muscular woman I know. It definitely wasn't a bad look for her and I was annoyed to realize my old insecurities were alive and well in the afterlife.
"Take hold of Geirr and do not relinquish it until you are given leave."
The thing had to be at least seven feet tall. I measured its length and noted the material it was made of could have been poorly wrought iron, if they had that sort of thing here. I couldn't take anything for granted on a different world, and there was no doubt as to what this place had to be if it was indeed Valhalla.
"Is there a reason you're giving me your weapon?" I asked.
I had the feeling that she wasn't used to being questioned all that often when she gave orders – working alongside the PRT for so long I definitely recognized the type. Then I remembered Birger saying that she was the head Valkyrie which was something probably akin to general I would presume.
"Outside the halls of Valhalla, were you not possessing Geirr or at the very least in physical contact with a valkyrie, you would succumb to the mortal wounds that brought you to my notice."
That took me back to wherever it was Contessa and I had our little chat and she decided to assassinate me. All I remembered was dropping boneless to the ground there and the next thing I knew I was walking through the door here.
"So, in here I'm healed," I concluded, "and out there I have two bullet holes in my head."
Brunnhilda pressed her lips together before answering. "Unless you are fluent in how the process is accomplished through magic and science, it is difficult to explain. Simply trust that it will work as I have said. I have no desire to feel the wrath of the Allfather if I fail to deliver you on time as commanded."
That seemed to end that conversation. I took hold of the spear and waited for something magical to happen, only to be sorely disappointed.
So much for magic.
"Come," Brunnhilda said before turning and striding out the door. "We will converse along the way."
Any seven foot spear, made of some weird metal, should have weighed a lot more than I was expecting, but the thing was as light as the proverbial feather as I made sure not to scrape the doorway on as I followed. Apparently Valhalla was in the middle of a large grassy plane and civilization of any type was nowhere within eyesight. However, within seconds I noticed something was off about the whole scene.
It was all too perfect: the temperature, the slightest hint of a breeze, the total lack of pollen in the air even though it seemed like spring was in full bloom. It didn't feel natural.
"Where are we?" I said before clarifying myself. "I mean what is this place?"
She turned her head slightly and sent a measured eye on me. "Valhalla is a place out of natural space and time. Here, even the most dire wound will be given time to heal naturally. Once Ragnarök comes, all the valiant heroes within will be tasked to take part in the final battle. Consider this a way station between then and now."
That explanation obviously set me off. "Even against our will?"
Brunnhilda didn't take the bait. "Everyone here has been given the choice of staying or moving on to whatever afterlife awaits them."
"I didn't get the memo."
That confused her, but she let it roll off her broad shoulders. "You were brought here for a specific purpose, Taylor Hebert, and you will soon be given your choice."
I surveyed the area ahead and even took the time to throw a look over my shoulder to see how far we'd gone already. A day without my bugs gave new meaning to the word paranoid in my vocabulary.
"And that is…?"
My question was ignored; instead, she asked one of her own. "Why did you make use of your expanded powers at the end?"
Ah, that.
"Why do you want to know?"
"If you want an answer to your question then you will answer mine as well."
I rolled my eyes and pressed on. Obviously this was going to be a quid pro quo sort of conversation. I could deal with that.
"The short answer is that, in the end it was every man for himself, and there was no way we could have won against Scion unless we all came together… everyone."
Brunnhilda gave a single nod in return. "Mortals are capable of reason. Why did you choose to take away their free will and enslaving them instead of turning them to your side with reason?"
I sighed and concentrated on the low thumping sound I was making with the spear each time I took another step.
"If I'd taken the time then billions of people, trillions, would have been dead while we sat there arguing over whose plan was better."
"So you understand what it truly means to be a leader of warriors."
My brow furrowed when I looked her way. "What's that supposed to mean?"
She shrugged. "Only that there is a larger purpose out there amongst the nine realms and the multiple variances thereof. Most mortals can't comprehend that there is something larger than themselves, a reason that life must endure, even if it is at the cost of their own or many others they call enemy and friend."
Right – whatever.
"I did what needed doing," I clarified. "Whatever I get called in the end, it doesn't matter, because my world still lives."
"And the greater universe?"
"What's your point?"
We continued on a few more steps before Brunnhilda stopped and turned to me. "The entities that invaded your world are not the only threats out there, Taylor."
I felt my muscles tighten up with dread. "There's more of them?"
"Most certainly; they are not an immediate concern to us at the moment. If they approach, the Allfather will deal with them."
One guy would "deal" with the entities. That sounded unlikely. Granted, it was Odin we were talking about here, but still. She made it sound like he'd just wave his hand and they'd shrivel up and die. We definitely could have used that sort of help a few days ago. An actual god would have really been useful.
"Why are you asking about all of this? Am I being judged or something?"
She gestured and we continued on. "Not in the manner you are most likely thinking.
We aren't the final adjudicators in terms of the disposition of your soul. You are not technically dead, so there is no need."
"Technically," I said as I pondered the various differences of deadness.
"You are being judged regarding your worthiness for a different sort of position."
This whole mess fell into place with that statement. I was being recruited. Considering the job qualifications and my previous experience that we'd been going over, this didn't sound like something I'd particularly be interested in. Not to mention I wasn't qualified for much of anything at the moment, since I had no way of interacting with my bugs.
"I don't have powers anymore."
Brunnhilda wasn't the least bit surprised. "Although your talents in that area would be useful in the coming years, it's your character of which I am most interested."
This was starting to become tedious. I didn't exactly want to die, but I did my part in saving the universe, or at least my little part of it anyway. It was time for a vacation and if that meant I wasn't being pulled around by someone that obviously can't lay the problem on the table and wait for a yes or a no, then I had better things to do.
"This is the second time I'm asking: can you get to the point? I really dislike word games."
She shook her head. "This isn't a game, Taylor."
"Fine," I shot back. "You clearly brought me here for a reason. You know I'll do whatever it takes to get the job done, even if it winds up pissing off everyone in charge. I'm pretty much worthless without my power, or at least nothing more than a tactician, but if you're actually a valkyrie from legend then you could probably run circles around me in that area. So what's the point of having me here and grilling me?"
Brunnhilda had stopped and spun around midway during my rant, watching me.
"You're doing well so far; continue."
I scowled at her and defiantly planted the spear an inch into the ground while I thought about it. If this was the real Asgard, Valhalla, and so forth then they had more than enough people to take care of any problems. They didn't need a broken cape from Earth Bet to tell them anything they didn't already know, so it had to be something personal about me. What was I being recruited for?
I didn't have enough information to make a decent guess, so I didn't bother.
"Not enough information," I said. "I'm not speculating any further."
She actually smiled at my answer. It was small, but it was there nonetheless.
"The Valkyrior has lost one of our own recently and the Allfather has seen a turbulent future for Asgard in the near future. The ranks must be filled."
I blinked at that. "The Valkyrior…."
"Valkyries, Taylor, those who carry warriors that will die honorably in battle to Valhalla; that is our primary duty. However, a millennium ago we were ordered to restrict Asgardian contact with Midgard, what you call Earth. At that time our duties increased. We are the Allfather's finest warriors save for a select few that lead his armies into battle: Sif, Fandral, Hogun, Volstagg, and of course the Odinson, Thor."
My mind skirted on the edge of going completely blank. "What does…?"
"What does this have to do with you?" she said, cutting me off. "Special missions from the Allfather require special warriors to carry them out. The Valkyrior are those warriors, and we are one short."
I'm not exactly sure when my mouth slid open – at least I wasn't gaping like an idiot.
"Right." I spun around and started heading back to the Hall. "Good luck with that."
"Taylor Hebert. You have been chosen."
"Don't know anything about being a warrior, much less swinging a sword around or throwing a spear. Thanks anyway."
I probably got about ten feet before Brunnhilda was suddenly in front of me with her fists balled up on her hips, striking an impressive figure.
"Your power will be returned to you."
Of course, she would know the one thing that would make me pause, which I did.
Being virtually helpless for a day was driving me crazy. What would it be like in a week or a month, or even a year down the line? Would I grow used to it or would the paranoia drive me insane in due time?
"Did I not say that if you were in Valhalla long enough that you would be healed eventually? I didn't mean just mean physically. Though it will take years to fully regain such a talent, it will happen." Then she answered the unasked question. "The Allfather has the means to return you to your previous glory. All you need do is pledge yourself to the Valkyrior and to the king of Asgard."
I closed my eyes and rubbed at where the holes on my forehead should be before whispering, "Fucking Asgardians."
"Why me? You probably have hundreds of better people that actually want the position." I asked.
"You would be correct." She stared at me for a few moments and pressed her lips together. I was coming to the conclusion that was her go-to expression for annoyance.
"As I mentioned, Asgardian presence on Midgard has been restricted…."
"Ah!" I figured her out. "I'm not Asgardian and you need someone on Earth for something."
"Correct."
Excitement almost made its way back to me. Then I actually thought about it some more. "Is this my Earth?"
"No. Heimdall, the keeper of the Bifrost, has witnessed two of what you would call Parahumans on Earth at this time, but their powers were acquired solely though science. You would be more than equal to their ranks, though you would have more advantages as a valkyrie. This is as much as I can say unless you choose to join us."
I blew out a breath and thought it over. I'd be on Earth and not really under the thumb of these guys, but eventually whatever mission I went on would end. Then I'd be screwed.
"No offense, but I don't know any of you. I can't honestly swear allegiance to Odin or you like that, even if you're tempting me with my power."
"Understood. The position is not permanent. If you accept and complete the mission and then realize you can't commit any further, you will be released from duty. We want loyal warriors, Taylor, not reluctant fighters."
I could deal with that. Even if it winds up being something I'd normally rail against, it might be worth it in the end. "One question: will whatever I'm going to do hurt innocents on Earth?"
She nodded, probably seeing where I was going. "Just the opposite. We'll likely save billions of lives, possibly the entire planet and the nine realms as well."
Oh… fuck. No pressure or anything. And here I thought I would never accomplish a ten-thousandth of what I did before.
"Fine. Let go see the wizard."
"The Allfather," she corrected.
"Take hold of Geirr and do not relinquish it until you are given leave."
The thing had to be at least seven feet tall. I measured its length and noted the material it was made of could have been poorly wrought iron, if they had that sort of thing here. I couldn't take anything for granted on a different world, and there was no doubt as to what this place had to be if it was indeed Valhalla.
"Is there a reason you're giving me your weapon?" I asked.
I had the feeling that she wasn't used to being questioned all that often when she gave orders – working alongside the PRT for so long I definitely recognized the type. Then I remembered Birger saying that she was the head Valkyrie which was something probably akin to general I would presume.
"Outside the halls of Valhalla, were you not possessing Geirr or at the very least in physical contact with a valkyrie, you would succumb to the mortal wounds that brought you to my notice."
That took me back to wherever it was Contessa and I had our little chat and she decided to assassinate me. All I remembered was dropping boneless to the ground there and the next thing I knew I was walking through the door here.
"So, in here I'm healed," I concluded, "and out there I have two bullet holes in my head."
Brunnhilda pressed her lips together before answering. "Unless you are fluent in how the process is accomplished through magic and science, it is difficult to explain. Simply trust that it will work as I have said. I have no desire to feel the wrath of the Allfather if I fail to deliver you on time as commanded."
That seemed to end that conversation. I took hold of the spear and waited for something magical to happen, only to be sorely disappointed.
So much for magic.
"Come," Brunnhilda said before turning and striding out the door. "We will converse along the way."
Any seven foot spear, made of some weird metal, should have weighed a lot more than I was expecting, but the thing was as light as the proverbial feather as I made sure not to scrape the doorway on as I followed. Apparently Valhalla was in the middle of a large grassy plane and civilization of any type was nowhere within eyesight. However, within seconds I noticed something was off about the whole scene.
It was all too perfect: the temperature, the slightest hint of a breeze, the total lack of pollen in the air even though it seemed like spring was in full bloom. It didn't feel natural.
"Where are we?" I said before clarifying myself. "I mean what is this place?"
She turned her head slightly and sent a measured eye on me. "Valhalla is a place out of natural space and time. Here, even the most dire wound will be given time to heal naturally. Once Ragnarök comes, all the valiant heroes within will be tasked to take part in the final battle. Consider this a way station between then and now."
That explanation obviously set me off. "Even against our will?"
Brunnhilda didn't take the bait. "Everyone here has been given the choice of staying or moving on to whatever afterlife awaits them."
"I didn't get the memo."
That confused her, but she let it roll off her broad shoulders. "You were brought here for a specific purpose, Taylor Hebert, and you will soon be given your choice."
I surveyed the area ahead and even took the time to throw a look over my shoulder to see how far we'd gone already. A day without my bugs gave new meaning to the word paranoid in my vocabulary.
"And that is…?"
My question was ignored; instead, she asked one of her own. "Why did you make use of your expanded powers at the end?"
Ah, that.
"Why do you want to know?"
"If you want an answer to your question then you will answer mine as well."
I rolled my eyes and pressed on. Obviously this was going to be a quid pro quo sort of conversation. I could deal with that.
"The short answer is that, in the end it was every man for himself, and there was no way we could have won against Scion unless we all came together… everyone."
Brunnhilda gave a single nod in return. "Mortals are capable of reason. Why did you choose to take away their free will and enslaving them instead of turning them to your side with reason?"
I sighed and concentrated on the low thumping sound I was making with the spear each time I took another step.
"If I'd taken the time then billions of people, trillions, would have been dead while we sat there arguing over whose plan was better."
"So you understand what it truly means to be a leader of warriors."
My brow furrowed when I looked her way. "What's that supposed to mean?"
She shrugged. "Only that there is a larger purpose out there amongst the nine realms and the multiple variances thereof. Most mortals can't comprehend that there is something larger than themselves, a reason that life must endure, even if it is at the cost of their own or many others they call enemy and friend."
Right – whatever.
"I did what needed doing," I clarified. "Whatever I get called in the end, it doesn't matter, because my world still lives."
"And the greater universe?"
"What's your point?"
We continued on a few more steps before Brunnhilda stopped and turned to me. "The entities that invaded your world are not the only threats out there, Taylor."
I felt my muscles tighten up with dread. "There's more of them?"
"Most certainly; they are not an immediate concern to us at the moment. If they approach, the Allfather will deal with them."
One guy would "deal" with the entities. That sounded unlikely. Granted, it was Odin we were talking about here, but still. She made it sound like he'd just wave his hand and they'd shrivel up and die. We definitely could have used that sort of help a few days ago. An actual god would have really been useful.
"Why are you asking about all of this? Am I being judged or something?"
She gestured and we continued on. "Not in the manner you are most likely thinking.
We aren't the final adjudicators in terms of the disposition of your soul. You are not technically dead, so there is no need."
"Technically," I said as I pondered the various differences of deadness.
"You are being judged regarding your worthiness for a different sort of position."
This whole mess fell into place with that statement. I was being recruited. Considering the job qualifications and my previous experience that we'd been going over, this didn't sound like something I'd particularly be interested in. Not to mention I wasn't qualified for much of anything at the moment, since I had no way of interacting with my bugs.
"I don't have powers anymore."
Brunnhilda wasn't the least bit surprised. "Although your talents in that area would be useful in the coming years, it's your character of which I am most interested."
This was starting to become tedious. I didn't exactly want to die, but I did my part in saving the universe, or at least my little part of it anyway. It was time for a vacation and if that meant I wasn't being pulled around by someone that obviously can't lay the problem on the table and wait for a yes or a no, then I had better things to do.
"This is the second time I'm asking: can you get to the point? I really dislike word games."
She shook her head. "This isn't a game, Taylor."
"Fine," I shot back. "You clearly brought me here for a reason. You know I'll do whatever it takes to get the job done, even if it winds up pissing off everyone in charge. I'm pretty much worthless without my power, or at least nothing more than a tactician, but if you're actually a valkyrie from legend then you could probably run circles around me in that area. So what's the point of having me here and grilling me?"
Brunnhilda had stopped and spun around midway during my rant, watching me.
"You're doing well so far; continue."
I scowled at her and defiantly planted the spear an inch into the ground while I thought about it. If this was the real Asgard, Valhalla, and so forth then they had more than enough people to take care of any problems. They didn't need a broken cape from Earth Bet to tell them anything they didn't already know, so it had to be something personal about me. What was I being recruited for?
I didn't have enough information to make a decent guess, so I didn't bother.
"Not enough information," I said. "I'm not speculating any further."
She actually smiled at my answer. It was small, but it was there nonetheless.
"The Valkyrior has lost one of our own recently and the Allfather has seen a turbulent future for Asgard in the near future. The ranks must be filled."
I blinked at that. "The Valkyrior…."
"Valkyries, Taylor, those who carry warriors that will die honorably in battle to Valhalla; that is our primary duty. However, a millennium ago we were ordered to restrict Asgardian contact with Midgard, what you call Earth. At that time our duties increased. We are the Allfather's finest warriors save for a select few that lead his armies into battle: Sif, Fandral, Hogun, Volstagg, and of course the Odinson, Thor."
My mind skirted on the edge of going completely blank. "What does…?"
"What does this have to do with you?" she said, cutting me off. "Special missions from the Allfather require special warriors to carry them out. The Valkyrior are those warriors, and we are one short."
I'm not exactly sure when my mouth slid open – at least I wasn't gaping like an idiot.
"Right." I spun around and started heading back to the Hall. "Good luck with that."
"Taylor Hebert. You have been chosen."
"Don't know anything about being a warrior, much less swinging a sword around or throwing a spear. Thanks anyway."
I probably got about ten feet before Brunnhilda was suddenly in front of me with her fists balled up on her hips, striking an impressive figure.
"Your power will be returned to you."
Of course, she would know the one thing that would make me pause, which I did.
Being virtually helpless for a day was driving me crazy. What would it be like in a week or a month, or even a year down the line? Would I grow used to it or would the paranoia drive me insane in due time?
"Did I not say that if you were in Valhalla long enough that you would be healed eventually? I didn't mean just mean physically. Though it will take years to fully regain such a talent, it will happen." Then she answered the unasked question. "The Allfather has the means to return you to your previous glory. All you need do is pledge yourself to the Valkyrior and to the king of Asgard."
I closed my eyes and rubbed at where the holes on my forehead should be before whispering, "Fucking Asgardians."
"Why me? You probably have hundreds of better people that actually want the position." I asked.
"You would be correct." She stared at me for a few moments and pressed her lips together. I was coming to the conclusion that was her go-to expression for annoyance.
"As I mentioned, Asgardian presence on Midgard has been restricted…."
"Ah!" I figured her out. "I'm not Asgardian and you need someone on Earth for something."
"Correct."
Excitement almost made its way back to me. Then I actually thought about it some more. "Is this my Earth?"
"No. Heimdall, the keeper of the Bifrost, has witnessed two of what you would call Parahumans on Earth at this time, but their powers were acquired solely though science. You would be more than equal to their ranks, though you would have more advantages as a valkyrie. This is as much as I can say unless you choose to join us."
I blew out a breath and thought it over. I'd be on Earth and not really under the thumb of these guys, but eventually whatever mission I went on would end. Then I'd be screwed.
"No offense, but I don't know any of you. I can't honestly swear allegiance to Odin or you like that, even if you're tempting me with my power."
"Understood. The position is not permanent. If you accept and complete the mission and then realize you can't commit any further, you will be released from duty. We want loyal warriors, Taylor, not reluctant fighters."
I could deal with that. Even if it winds up being something I'd normally rail against, it might be worth it in the end. "One question: will whatever I'm going to do hurt innocents on Earth?"
She nodded, probably seeing where I was going. "Just the opposite. We'll likely save billions of lives, possibly the entire planet and the nine realms as well."
Oh… fuck. No pressure or anything. And here I thought I would never accomplish a ten-thousandth of what I did before.
"Fine. Let go see the wizard."
"The Allfather," she corrected.
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Walker of Paths
All Things Die
- Location
- To Be Honest, I Don't Know Either.
...Go on.
Endymion
An Operator will be with you shortly.
You know Odin is going to say something to piss her off, badly. He'll whine and say that he was restricted, or that he was in Odinsleep, or that some other reason. Taylor needs to kick him in the balls. He'll deserve it. Well unless he gets down on his knees and apologizes for not showing up to kill the multi-dimensional spatial parasite.
Night_stalker
Slava Ukraini!
- Pronouns
- He/Him
Man, Taylor on MCU Earth.
I almost pity the first bastard she goes up against.
I almost pity the first bastard she goes up against.
- Location
- Ireland
3 things
i'm enjoying this
you keep skipping a line mid sentence
and who are the parahumans? captain america obviously and maybe hulk or iron man?
Walker of Paths
All Things Die
- Location
- To Be Honest, I Don't Know Either.
it's actually pretty funny, by marvel standards Taylor without her powers is still completely competent as a superhero. with her powers, she is top tier in the Marvel Pantheon.
- Location
- West Michigan
Considering how closely Gandalf, the codifier of modern wizard tropes, was modeled on descriptions of Odin as The Wanderer, there's not actually much of a difference.
(I don't actually know how the WoO book described its title character)
Night_stalker
Slava Ukraini!
- Pronouns
- He/Him
Sooo, kinda curious how she handles HYDRA. And by handles, I mean has fond memories of the Empire while stomping them like monkeys against an 18 wheeler.
- Location
- West Michigan
Depends on the current year. Hulk's accident happened in '03, so if this is pre-IM1 then she meant Hulk and Cap. However, Cap is on ice, so if it's post-IM1 then she meant Hulk and Tony.
The line also ignores the presence of Inhumans, but Asgard had no idea they existed until the current half-season of AoS so that's an accurate mistake.
Hebert IS a name of Norman origin....
Heather Sinclair
Verified Force User
1 - thanks
2 - Huh?
3 - Hulk and Tony
Hydra - Will take far too long to explain, but finding out about it and knowing what it actually is will take time.
Night_stalker
Slava Ukraini!
- Pronouns
- He/Him
Yeah, but the image of von Strucker taking a load of hornets to the face is priceless.
- Location
- West Michigan
I now want to ship Taylor / Scarlet Witch and I have no idea why. AoU isn't out yet, she's only appeared in one scene, and she didn't even get any lines!
Maybe I just see it as a variation of Taylor/Ciara shipping.
Heather Sinclair
Verified Force User
Well, Taylor is over 18 in this story. I can do an awesome fade to black scene. Though that would be years down the line.
Timeline: (just so there's some prospective)
IM 1 - May-Oct 2010
IM2, Thor 1, Hulk 1 - start in Apr 2011
Avengers - May 2012
But Hulk has been running around for years.
So we know that Taylor is in Asgard sometime in Mid-2010 at the earliest. I'll define it more when she actually gets to Earth and has a look around.
- Location
- West Michigan
IMO, if it's something you can air in a 10 PM timeslot on basic cable, it's something you should be able to post on SV. In theory, at least.
Considering how Sons of Anarchy S7E10 opened with eight different sex scenes in a five minute montage, this standard is actually probably too permissive, but that's an argument for another thread.
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KlinkerKing
Man bites dog?
- Location
- The Lion's Den
Excellent as always, Heather. Unfortunately Marvel isn't for me, but given the quality of your fics I definitely will give it a try anyway.
I admit, "the Valkyrior" as a name bothers me quite a bit - it's an indefinite article with an English definition term tacked on (the rough equivalent would be "the a pen"). Correctly written it should the "Valkyriorna", "The Valkyries" or possibly "The Valkyrie".
chibipoe
May I tell you of the glory that is Catradora?
- Location
- Astoria, Oregon
This is awesome.
Also, I caught this.
Should be way station.
I think he was referring to the odd line break here. Maybe the line break for the other section above got misplaced?
Also, I caught this.
Should be way station.
Need a line break between Taylor speaking and Brunnhilda speaking.
I think he was referring to the odd line break here. Maybe the line break for the other section above got misplaced?
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Heather Sinclair
Verified Force User
This is awesome.
Also, I caught this.
Should be way station.
Need a line break between Taylor speaking and Brunnhilda speaking.
I think he was referring to the odd line break here. Maybe the line break for the other section above got misplaced?
Thanks for the catches. The odd line break is because everything bunches up when I copypasta and have to break them all apart.
The Valkyrior is what they're called in Marvel comics. I blame them.
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XkaliburRage
Perpetual Procrastinator
I always like ideas of crossing post-Worm Taylor with something. Waiting for more with bated breath!
- Location
- Crackship Space!
*Looks both ways*
Given her record, I would not want her within 10 feet of my balls. Especially if she might be angry.
Coulson - Excuse me miss?
Taylor - Oh hey, I was wondering when someone would get here. It's been hours since I came down. I mean it's the fucking Bifrost, why does it spit people out in the middle of a fucking desert! *Yells upward* You are such an asshole Heimdal! Yes you! Wipe that smug grin off your face motherfucker! When I get back I am kicking you in the balls! *Continues grousing*
Coulson - I am at a loss of words. I'm sorry My name is Phil. Phil Coulson, I'm with Shield.
Taylor - I know who you are Phil. I got the brief from Thor and Odin before they ordered me down here.
Coulson - I have to say, you dont speak like he did...
Taylor - I'm from earth. Not this one but a parallel dimension. It pretty much got wrecked by a space whale having a tantrum. I 'commanded' the army that took it out but died shortly thereafter. Got picked up by a Valkyrie and recruited by the star league to fight the Kodan armada... you know how it goes.
Coulson - I see. Well welcome back. May I inquire as to the rather impressive sword you are carrying?
Taylor - Oh this, I wont draw it here given it's nature that would end badly for you I would imagine. Hes called, "Dainsleif."
Coulson - What does it do?
Taylor - It kills. When I draw it I cant sheath it again unless it has been used to kill. Wounds inflicted by it can't be healed and never fail to kill their victim, or so Odin told me when he threw it at me. I think he's trying to teach me Patience and Humility or something of that nature.
Coulson - I understand. So I have my car this way. I also picked up a cheeseburger in case you are hungry.
Taylor - Fugly Bobs?
Coulson - Who?
Taylor - Resturant chain back home. Made fantastic burgers. Wow now that I think about it, I havent had a cheeseburger in... fuck me years! Lead on Phil!
Looking good so far. You have my interest.
Not to insult your tastes (I've read and enjoyed such stories), but why is Taylor paired with other girls so often in fanon, when in canon Taylor makes it very clear that she likes men who are extra manly?
This literally just occurred to me.
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