Hunter woke up in his bedroom in Alfheim. He was still unsure if part of yesterday actually happened. He realizes that it in fact was real when he shifts a bit and feels his naked body brush the blanket and the bodies next to him. “The hell am I even doing at this point? Enjoying what little time I have? Am I just making excuses? I would have never gone for something like this before. I'm not one to cum and go, I wanted a serious relationship. A nuclear family, two parents and their kids. I worked into narrowing my options down to one person because… because that's what's considered normal? Because that's what I wanted? Because I felt I didn't deserve to be loved by one person let alone two?” Hunter whispered to himself, thoughts still racing. He slapped the back of his head lightly on the bed a few times. “In the heat of the moment, I didn't even consider protection.” Hunter let out a soft sigh. “Screw it, I'm just going to roll with the punches from here on out. When I'm not focused on my goal, just go with my gut on life choices and stop overthinking everything.”
The two ladies shuffle and make soft sounds in their sleep. Their bodies were still pressed to Hunter's. Lilac's hand had brushed on Hunter. He was dealing with a normal morning condition that often affects men. A smile creeps across her sleeping face. “Mmmm”
Hunter shifted, Hel's breasts were pressed to him and Lilac's hand was still in that spot. Hunter wanted to stay in this moment forever, or at least a while longer. However he needed to get to work sooner rather than later. Hunter slid his way out of Hel's grip and rolled over Lilac. He paused for a bit while on top of her. “Mmmm~ Tempting, and I doubt she'd object. But I really should get to work.”
Both Hel and Lilac shifted in their sleep, with Lilac right underneath Hunter her body naturally brushed his.
“Ffffffuck. Last time I left while they slept they got pissed. I should at least leave a note.” Hunter slid the rest of his way out of the bed and got dressed before making his note. He then shifts to Midgard.
Hunter's timing was calculated and precise. There was to be a UN meeting later today. He dressed up as an electrician and simply walked in like he was supposed to be there. One person questioned his presence and Hunter simply told him he was there to install a set up in the meeting room so people could simply video call in from location. “This was all ordered when the pandemic hit, took till now to finally get it through the red tape.”
“Since you are here, there's a light in the north hallway that's been fucky for years. I've complained about it but they refuse to do anything about it since it's not essential.”
“I get paid by the hour and charge for the equipment used on the job, so I might as well fix it and bill them for it. I'll probably just sneak it in the bill. Wouldn't be the first time a man in a suit signed off on my work and paid the bill without looking.”
“Haha, I'll keep your secret.”
Hunter got to the room and set up the Bifrost communication devices so a proper meeting of the alliance could be held, then waited for the meeting to get started. Hunter was just finishing up when the people started walking in. “Ah, great timing. I just finished up here.”
The ambassadors were a bit confused but sat without much questions and started the meeting. Hunter sat through several hours of mundane stuff before they started closing up. “Alright, if there are no other issues on the table we can adjourn.”
Hunter finally walked to the floor in front of the screens. “Ah yes, finally. If I could have the attention of everyone in this room. Hello ambassadors of the world, or at least the major powers of it. Now, you probably have a lot of questions. Who the fuck is this guy? Why is it, when he speaks, I can hear my native language? Now, I'm about to be getting into some strange stuff. I would like to ask that only ambassadors remain in this room and if you feel necessary bodyguards. You won't be needing translators. You'll notice, on your desk, a set of glasses with an earpiece. Once interpreters are gone and only ambassadors and trusted guards are left and the glasses are on I'll get into explaining everything.”
The USA ambassador speaks up first. “What…?” His guard hands the ambassador a tablet and points to it. The ambassador then put on the glasses and dismissed his interpreters. “Everyone follow his directions please.”
Everyone does so with some hesitation before the room breaks into murmuring.
“You may notice that everyone can now understand everyone else. With extreme accuracy. These glasses convert all text and speech to your native language. You might be wondering how this is possible because we've gotten close but haven't quite cracked this amount of accuracy. The answer is magic.”
“Ex-excuse me?”
“Sorry I should probably explain.” Hunter takes a deep breath. “There is this extra dimensional energy that can… do a lot of things. It's really complicated so it's easier to just call it magic. This energy is the Bifrost. An energy void that exists between our world and others.” Hunter runs on the screen to show a map. “Both layered on top of but separate from our world, funhouse mirror reflections of our own. Counting our world there are fifteen. You may notice the map and other stuff have similarities to Norse mythology. This is because it, and other mythologies, have a base in history. I know this is a lot to take in so I'll give you some time for this to sink in and ask questions.”
“Hello, yes. Japan over here. Do you have proof?”
“You may notice that for some reason, you get a sense that I'm not intentionally deceiving you. This will work for everyone so be careful as everyone in the room will know when you are telling a lie. Also…” the screens all ring like phones as Hunter calls in everyone.
Shock spreads through the room as screens show United Nations like gatherings in each realm. “Is this… real?”
Hel who can only be seen from the neck up. “I assure you, I'm very real. Hello Midgard, I am Queen Hel of Helheim. One kingdom among a dozen in the realm known to your ancestors as either Helheim or Hades or maybe other names. It wasn't an afterlife, but more like a set of prison colonies.”
There were some light murmurs in the room as ambassadors pointed at the different screens with people that looked less human. “Germany here, are you saying the Ancient Aliens theory is true?”
“Yes, but actually no. I'll have documentation made up when I can. There's a lot to cover for the past but I'm here about the future.”
“Yeah… uhhh… France over here. I'm a bit lost here because, to borrow an American saying, excuse my French… I'm still stuck on who the fuck is this guy?!”
“United States. My guard ran face recognition on him. Lieutenant Commander Hunter Erickson, United States Air Force. Discharged six years ago, medical, mental health suspension. Suspension ended last year, opted not to rejoin. Awarded multiple metals. Here, I'll just send his info.” Taps tablet.
Everyone else looks it over for a bit.
Hunter continues. “Yes, thanks for that. Now, if you've seen that video online of a dude vanishing that popped up last year, that was me and it was real. I've been to these other places and I've helped form an alliance. The Yggdrasil Alliance is a realm spanning United Nations like group. It's time for our world to join. I had papers set up for this. You'll find them to be well thought out. All realms will remain independent and follow a set of rules that includes stuff similar to the Geneva Convention and other agreements.”
“Canada here, I have to ask: why? The UN was formed because of the world wars to try and promote diplomatic stuff before war and it… frankly speaking, isn't great at that job. Sorry, but it's true. So what conflict in the past or future could inspire this?”
“The past, Ragnarok. Actual war, actually happened, moving on. You'll get documents explaining all that as soon as I have them drawn up. Future, more importantly, unfortunately also involves the past. You may have seen pictures of odd text on old buildings found in Antarctica. Those are real too, remnants of an invasion from before Ragnarok. Again you'll be getting paperwork for that. Anyway this invasion came from outside Yggdrasil. Beyond the Veil. Figures for Cthulhu mythos, yeah, those are real too. Hastur, the King in Yellow, once invaded the realms to try and subjugate them so he could… look it's a long story it'll be included in the paperwork. The important part is he's coming back and the Yggdrasil Alliance must join forces if we want to survive.”
“I have so many questions. Sorry, Egypt speaking.”
“Hopefully the paperwork will explain those so save them. I want to stress, with the anti-deception field active, that this is all or nothing. It's fight united, or die divided. Hastur isn't just happy with killing us. The realms will die screaming as he subjugates them until his mate is ready to birth. I'll repeat, it'll be explained in the paperwork, but his kids once born will eat the realms. Somehow. I'm not exactly sure how that works but either way it's not good. Midgard isn't the only one at risk here. I save us for last because let's be honest. Humans have a bad habit of overreacting. Oh, and in case you were thinking about keeping this all secret, everything said here is being broadcast live online and you'll never be able to put the cat back in the bag.”
Dead silence before someone simply says. “Fuck.”
“So let me introduce everyone. Actually, that'll take too long. I'm just going to add name tags to everyone's displays. Everyone say hi and get at least a little friendly with your dimensional neighbors. I'll be checking the gear for a bit as I work on getting that paperwork.” Hunter taps at screens and starts getting things in order. “By the way, sorry for ditching in your sleep this morning. Timetables and all that.”
Hel whispered “I'm not even dressed. Despite your note I just soaked in the bed till my scroll rang.”
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“We can discuss how to move forward from here for our private lives in private. For now keep it hush. It might end badly if our relationship becomes public now. Oh! I just realized since I have a copy of my journals on my tablet I can just send that to everyone in the UN. My backup has everything up to the point of me passing out after that fight with Heracles.” Hunter starts sending copies of his notes and his journal to everyone. “Here, this should cover everything. Now does anyone have any questions or comments please read those documents first as they should cover most questions you have. Any concerns should be addressed now.”
“Russia. I've been reading this over and it says that for the Alliance voting when it comes to cross realm issues each realm gets one vote regardless of the number of nations it has.”
“Yeah, so each realm is equal in the alliance. There may be concerns about how some races have a level of control over more than one realm via prior alliances or history but hopefully you'll be able to run stuff smoothly up to and after we fight back Hastur.”
“That brings me to my second question. How long do we have?”
“I'm not sure exactly, from.what I gathered it could be as soon as next month and as late as ten years from now.”
Vidar signs and his hand signals are turned to words by the translation and communication set up. “We have until next year. Some time in the late fall to mid winter.”
The room goes silent with Hunter letting out a soft “fuck.” After letting the room absorb that info Hunter does his best to press on. “We should focus on preparation. Ready everything you have. It's all hand on deck, all or nothing, do or die. Anything else you want to cover before rushing home to get ready for the biggest conflict the realms have ever seen?”
“Russia, again. I wanted to go back to the prison colony thing. Does that mean Asgard controls Helheim?”
“No, it got its independence at the conclusion of Ragnarok. So it's kinda like Australia. Giant lizards and spiders included. No offense.”
“None taken, there is some scary wildlife here.”
“Yes, even adjusting for the lifespan of the Aesir, that five thousand years would still be fifty years. Same as Midgard being independent from them. As I explained to a representative of Olympus, to act entitled to a land that's been independent that long and to try and take it by force would be a dick move.”
Eyes move to the ambassador of Russia and a few glances are aimed at China. Russia’s ambassador puts his hands up. “I'm just an ambassador, I'm not running my country.”
There's some light chuckling and awkward coughing for a bit before the group's near silence is interrupted by the representative of Svartalfheim. “I am amazed at just how good our Lord's consort is at diplomacy. I see now what they see in a mere human.”
Hunter could almost hear a record scratch sound in his head as he thought “oh fuck” and had the face of a deer in headlights. “Yeah, about that… Lulu and I aren't actually involved, they thought it was the only way to get you to listen to me. It was never my intention to deceive you.”
The USA ambassador leans forward. “Good. It would be highly unprofessional for an ambassador to have relations with the representative of another country. It could result in bias and affect your decisions.”
Hunter gives the ambassador the side eye. “One: I'm not an ambassador, I hold no power or real sway over the Yggdrasil Alliance Counsel. Nor would I want to. I'm at best a mediator or advisor. I want this alliance to be able to function without me and last long after I'm gone. Two: It is no one's business who I do and do not “have relations” with. Three: In case I didn't make this clear, I have not had sex with Lulu of The Deep. Not that it would matter or be anyone's business if I did.”
The representative of the Sickly Mists then says “Does this mean you're unpaired and available?”
“My relationship status is not a relevant topic of discussion. I won't be taking any questions regarding that at this time.”
Pages flip and more murmurs are heard. As people start diving into the paperwork to avoid the current topic. Then the Japanese ambassador raises their hand. “Yeah, I've been looking over the papers for the alliance and the history stuff and I have several questions.”
“Did you read all of it?”
“Yeah, I've gotten through everything. I've been thumbing through it in the background since I got it.”
“Ask away.”
“You make several references to people and artifacts that draw on Bifrost or are imbued with it to do various things we use tech for. But you never explain what kinda energy it is or how it works.”
“Because I have no fuckin idea. I'm no scientist.”
“Also I see you list two… flying boats that can travel the realms. Why not make more and why not build a new Bifrost bridge anchor?”
“Building the boats takes time, an anchored travel point would be under the control of the host realm and maybe cause issues and take even longer to build. If a scientist finds a way to open a gate through the Bifrost to another realm I'd like to politely ask you to bury that knowledge because this world is not ready for it. I'm worried what one of our world powers would do with the ability to freely travel the realms. That's why I set up a system that works like public transportation. The boats alternate who pilots them and I know everyone I've picked to fly them is trustworthy. Carrion the ferryman for example held a similar role but for prison transport. Hel has a pilot she trusts as well. If there are genuine concerns over who flies the boats new arrangements can be made. You can place an overseer on them if you are that worried. For now diplomatic and trade transport only. Tourism might start if the realms become comfortable enough with it. Until the invasion no weapons will be allowed on the boats. After the invasion the same will apply. Only during the invasion will weapons be used in and on the boats. I coved this in the Alliance Agreement. Anything else?”
“USA ambassador again, I couldn't help but notice the way you danced and dodged around your relationship status. So, which representative are you fucking?”
Hel spits out a drink she was sipping and coughs but thankfully the Crimson Blight representative speaks up. “He already said that wasn't a relevant topic for discussion. Let's focus on military strategies for when the invasion comes. Hunter's personal life is not the focus of this meeting.”
“Thank you ambassador, well said. Any relevant questions? No? Good. Everyone can leave then. Cut the live feed. Everyone go breef your leaders then use those tablets to keep open communications for strategic and military discussions.”
The ambassadors all start leaving the room with their stuff. All except the USA ambassador. “Hunter, I've already made some calls and you are to report directly to the president at her request.”
“Okay, will I be getting tickets? For me and one guest.”
“Transport will be provided by private jet, you'll be allowed a single guest.” The ambassador gives Hunter directions before leaving.
Hunter exits the building and calls up Hel. “Hey, do you think you can get an illusion set up to look more human and meet me here discreetly? I've been allowed one guest to bring with me to the capitol of my country and it'll be easier to bring you in then it would be to bring Lilac.”
“I'll be there shortly. Are there any large bodies of water near you?”
“There's a lake. I'll meet you there. Sending you the coordinates.” Hunter arranged the meet up area and went there.
Hel teleported the branch world boat right above the water and docked it like a normal boat before putting a cover on it. She looked like a really tall but otherwise normal human. “Let's do this thing.” Together they arrive at an airport to be processed normally before getting led to the private jet. While waiting to be processed Hel had to find a bathroom leaving Hunter alone for a while.
Hunter sat and waited when a woman approached him. “Hunter? Hunter Erickson?”
Hunter looked up and was surprised to see a familiar face. Alihandra, a girl from his highschool. “Ali? What are you doing at the airport?”
“I could ask you the same thing. I always thought you'd be stuck drifting in our hometown forever, never leaving the state.”
“I've actually been traveling quite a bit lately. How've you been?”
“I've been good. I got a nice job and they're sending me to one of those new locations to train people. I'd ask how you've been but considering you've actually got a bit of color to you I'll assume quite well. You look… happy. You always looked so down back in highschool. It's nice actually.”
“Yeah, I've actually done quite well lately. I'm definitely happier than I used to be.”
“That's good to hear. You know, it feels strange to admit it now, but I always found you to be endearing in your own way. Despite the struggles you seemed to be dealing with, you still continued on. I saw the way some of the other students treated you, yet every day you continued. Not once whenever another student would come after you, you never once threw a punch back.”
“Yeah well, I've started breaking that habit. Sometimes, there is no other way out of a situation.”
“Then, perhaps one could say, you've gotten stronger. Maybe… we should exchange numbers. I don't know about you but I'm currently single and childless, somehow. Knowing you, it's probably the same right? I always admired your strength and I think if we actually got to know one another we'd have a lot in common. Maybe… the people we have become would be a good fit for one another.” She gets closer to Hunter. “I've always found you attractive, in your own unique way. You've clearly grown and that only makes you more so.”
Just then Hel returns. “Who the fuck do you think you are?
Alihandra stood up straight in surprise. “H-huh? Who are you? With how silent you are despite your height… are you and Hunter perhaps related?”
Hunter chuckles. “Helen, this is Alihandra. She used to go to highschool with me. Ali, this is Helen. She's my-”
Hel wraps her hands around Hunter from behind “Oh me? I'm nobody.” She gives him a kiss on the cheek. “Just his lover.”
“O-oh.” Alihandra looked a bit saddened, but then smiled. Good for you Hunter. I hope things go well for the two of you.” She slides Hunter a paper with her number on it. “Don't be a stranger now.” Alihandra walks away.
Hel pulls away from Hunter. “I don't like her, she was clearly making moves.”
“Don't feel threatened, I wouldn't try to leave you for someone else.”
“Would you take on another though, rather than replace us?”
“Would you and Lilac even allow that?”
Hel shrugs. “Maybe a third wouldn't be the worst thing~”
“You're just messing with me, aren't you?”
“Maybe. Maybe not.”
A person in a suit approached the two. “Hunter Erickson and guest?”
“That's us, let's go.” The two were led to a private jet and seated for a flight to Washington DC.
Hunter and Hel basically have the entire private plane to themselves. There are fancy drinks and snacks so Hunter pops a bottle of champagne for them. “It's free so might as well use it.”
“So tell me about this President?”
“Ah, yes. This country is a representative democracy. People vote for who'll run different parts of the government. The President is the highest government official in one of three branches intended to do checks and balances to ensure no one branch has all the power. Truth is the system is a hot mess and things rarely get done.”
“I meant her personality. What's she like?”
“Amilia Ferris? She's… she's definitely an impressive individual. I mean if you ask someone just twenty years ago if we'd ever have a female in office they would have said no. Her win was a surprise to some. Progress though. She was a General in the Air Force when I served. I actually served under her for a time. She's tough but deep down she's a bit of a softy. Big military mom vibes.”
“Well I guess we'll see what she wants when we get there.”
The two chatted and sipped champagne until they arrived. Once there they were padded down and checked before being led to the oval office. The guard leads them in. “Madame President, Hunter Erickson is here as requested.”
The President was looking over and signing paperwork when they entered. She looks up and gives Hunter a warm smile. “Hello Commander, long time no see. It's good to see you're healthy.”
“Thank you General-” Hunter winsed. “I mean Madam President.”
The President chuckled lightly. “Old habits die hard I guess. No need to be so formal though. You're not in trouble or anything. Feel free to sit down.”
“I'll stand, I doubt this is a social call.”
“No, it's not. Although I'm not exactly happy about how you did… what you did today. I can understand why you did it. All I ask is you to give solid proof that this is real. Have one of your flying boats go cross country, teleport in public. Something with lots of witnesses that can't be denied. I also would like proof of this threat but I have ideas for that already. I just wanted to ask you in person what you planned to do during this coming battle. Personally.”
“I plan on giving my life for the realms.”
“I mean if it comes to that I know you're willing to die for what you believe in b-”
“No, you misunderstood me. I will die in the coming conflict. There's several references to that fact in my notes I provided to your ambassador. Vidar used the Well of Knowledge to confirm we only win this after my sacrifice. It's give my life or lose everything. So naturally I've decided to give it all for the sake of the realms.”
“I…. I see. I'll make sure you are buried with full honors and receive medals after everything is done. I feel better knowing you'll be on the front lines leading the charge. I wish you the best of luck and will support you entirely. I look forward to working with you again. As for your job, I'll make sure you are paid by the government so you can devote all your time to the preparation.”
“I'll let my boss know I quit.”
“That's already been handled. My men will see you home.”
Salutes are exchanged before Hunter and Hel are led back to the jet and flown home. Once there Hunter sets up flybys with both boats in low risk areas and teleports back to Alfheim in full view of cameras that are on the scenes watching the boats.