[Hela's POV]
From the moment she was born, Hela had no say in her destiny. Expectations were placed on her before she even took her first breath. Unlike other children in Asgard history, she didn't grow into her divine powers; they awakened the moment she was born. The kingdom had never seen anything like her, and immediately, everyone looked upon her as the future king, the one who would lead Asgard to greatness.
The whispers of pride and reverence surrounded her constantly.
"You are the hope of Asgard."
"Princess Hela will save us all."
"We are so fortunate to have you."
But she could hear the falseness in their voices. Their smiles never reached their eyes. She was a symbol, not a person. Even as a child, she could sense the distance. No one was truly proud of her—they were merely relieved that she could protect them. That she could be their weapon.
So she embraced it. If she couldn't be loved, she could at least be useful. Training became her obsession. If she could prove her worth in battle, then maybe—just maybe—she would be enough.
But even then, she was alone. As her skills grew, so did the gap between her and others. No one wanted to be near someone so far beyond them. No friends. No companionship. Just endless training in an empty palace.
And then... Fenris. The young black wolf she found by chance. He wasn't afraid of her, nor did he look at her like a tool. He was just... there. A creature she could understand, a being who understood her. When she spoke to him, he listened. It was the first time she felt connected to something real.
But her father, Odin, didn't see it that way. He saw Fenris as dangerous, a threat. He took him from her, sealing the wolf away in Hel as if it were nothing.
The pain of that betrayal cut deep. For the first time, Hela realized that even her own father saw her as nothing more than a weapon. She lashed out, her anger and grief turning her into something darker, something colder. But no matter how much she fought, it was never enough. Odin continued to use her as his sword in battle, a tool for his wars.
Then came the prophecy.
She heard from her father, The prophecy One, him—her future husband, the one destined to save the creation. For the first time, she felt hope. There was someone out there for her, someone who would understand her in ways no one else could. She didn't even know his name, or what he looked like, but the mere idea of him gave her purpose.
"He is my destiny. He is the only one who will truly see me."
She dedicated her entire life to becoming worthy of him. She would protect him. She would be strong enough to stand beside him. But with every passing year, she feared she wasn't enough. What if she wasn't strong enough? What if she became a burden to him?
"I can't fail him. I have to be the best. No matter the cost."
Her childhood, her life as a princess—everything was sacrificed. She trained relentlessly, pushing her body and mind far beyond its limits, believing that the only thing that made her worthy was her strength in battle. She would be his shield, his sword. That was all she had to offer.
And when anyone dared speak ill of him—the prophecy one, *her* prophecy one—she didn't hesitate. She would kill them without remorse. No one could question him, even if she had never met him. In her mind, he was her salvation, her light in the darkness.
But her obsession was noticed. Odin, once again betraying her, sealed her away in Hel by tricking her, just as he had done to Fenris. The one person she had trusted had turned on her, stripping away her freedom and leaving her in isolation. The hurt, the loneliness—it could have destroyed her.
But instead, it fueled her.
In Hel, she met Fenris once more. Now fully grown, the wolf was her only companion. She poured her heart out to him, telling him everything—her fears, her hopes, her love for the one she had never met. Fenris, ever loyal, comforted her in the only way he knew how.
"It will be alright, master. He will come for you. I know it."
Those words... they were enough to keep her going. She trained even harder, perfecting her skills to the point she learnt the concept of death itself, waiting for the day when *he* would come for her. She believed with all her heart that he would save her from this eternal prison.
And after thousands of years, the day finally came.
"He's here. He's finally here."
Her heart raced in a way she had never felt before. Panic set in. What if she wasn't ready? What if she wasn't good enough for him? What if, after all these years of training, he found her lacking?
"No, no, no. FENU, What do I do? I didn't prepare. Everything is a mess!"
Fenris, sensing her panic, remained calm.
"Master, how many times must I tell you? Don't call me by that name—it ruins my reputation. Besides, why are you panicking? You've been waiting for him. Or would you like a few more centuries to prepare?"
Hela clung to him, her emotions spiraling out of control. "No! I can't wait anymore, but... what if I can't talk to him? What if I mess everything up?"
Fenris, ever practical, handed her a rock tablet. "I've spent 800 years collecting advice from the souls here on how to talk to lovers for the first time. You should probably read it before he gets here. You might want to make sure the roads are clear, too—no souls should run into him on his way."
Hela blinked at him, surprised. "Fenu, you're the best." She dove into his fur, hugging him tightly.
"You're running out of time, master," Fenris reminded her with a gentle nudge. "I would've given this to you sooner, but you've always been too focused on training."
Without wasting another second, Hela grabbed the tablet and began reading intently. She studied it as though her very life depended on it, determined not to let anything go wrong now that the prophecy one had finally come for her.
This was it. After all the years of waiting, after all the pain and isolation, her moment had finally arrived.
And this time, she couldn't fail.
*******
The journey to Hel had been anything but ordinary, but now, as Ritsuka and his companions stepped into the realm, the eerie silence that greeted them was almost unsettling. The once chaotic and grim atmosphere of Hel seemed to be muted. No traffic of souls, no agonized wails—just an overwhelming stillness. Ritsuka and his group exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and caution.
"I think she's welcoming us," Ritsuka quipped with a casual smile, trying to lighten the mood as they ventured deeper. His words earned a few chuckles, but the tension among the group remained.
The servants, their magical instincts keen, could feel the presence of countless souls around them—hidden, wary. The souls of Hel were tucked away in their huts, seemingly avoiding the presence of their unusual guests. This was no coincidence.
As they approached the towering, obsidian gates of Hela's castle, they were greeted by a group of skeleton guards. The guards, their hollow eyes glowing faintly, gestured for them to follow. The party moved forward, their steps echoing through the barren land. The castle loomed ahead—a massive, foreboding structure of dark stone and twisted iron, its spires jagged like the claws of a beast reaching for the sky. The air was cold, biting at their skin, and the sky above them was a swirling vortex of grey clouds.
The gates of the castle creaked open, revealing the giant hall within. The interior was vast and grand, with towering columns of black marble stretching toward the high ceiling. The walls were adorned with ancient banners, tattered and worn, and the faint scent of death and decay lingered in the air.
At the far end of the hall, seated on a throne carved from what appeared to be bone, was Hela. Her presence was commanding, her posture regal and still as she rested upon her throne. Her black suit shimmered faintly in the dim green light, and behind her stood a massive wolf, its glowing eyes watching them with predatory calm. Garm, her colossal wolf pet, was a creature of legend. Just the sight of it made Goredolf, Kadoc, and Ophelia tense with fear. They can feel it's power, it's a divine being like surtur.
Kadoc, ever the realist, clenched his fists. "There's no way anyone could beat that thing one-on-one, but fortunately we have them." he whispered under his breath.
Goredolf, his face pale, nodded in agreement. "It's impossible... utterly impossible, but why it's looking at me like I'm a snack."
But Napoleon, unbothered by the aura of fear that gripped his companions, stepped forward with a confident grin. "Ah, Lady hoty, the silence is nice, but my master has come to meet you," he declared, breaking the tense atmosphere with his usual shameless charm
Hela's heart pounded in her chest, harder than it had in any battle. She had faced armies, she had fought alongside gods, but this—standing before Ritsuka Fujimaru, the one foretold by prophecy—was a battle unlike any other. Her every muscle, honed from thousands of years of training, tensed with anticipation. She took a deep breath, recalling the instructions she had so diligently read from the stone tablet Fenris had given her. *A kind gaze… yes, I must give a kind gaze.*
Her eyes, cold and sharp from centuries of isolation, locked onto Ritsuka. She attempted a soft look, but instead, her intense stare made everyone in the room feel as though death itself had just walked in. Kadoc shivered visibly, taking a step back.
Leaning toward Scathach, kadoc whispered under his breath, "Is she another version of you? She gives off the same 'I'm-about-to-kill-you' vibe."
Scathach, ever the stoic warrior, gave him a cold glance of her own. "Watch your words, mage," she said, her tone as icy as Hela's gaze.
Ritsuka, who had faced countless threats, from gods to the very universe itself, couldn't help but inwardly chuckle. *If I didn't know Odin's history, I'd think Thor was the adopted one here.* He saw baldur, hela, loki had Black hairs unlike Thor.
He stepped forward, offering a warm smile that contrasted the tension in the room. Bowing slightly, he said, "It's an honor to meet you, goddess. I'm Ritsuka Fujimaru, and these are my friends."
Hela froze, hearing his voice—*his* voice. The one she had imagined in her countless lonely moments, the one she had longed for all these years. She repeated his name quietly, as though testing its weight on her tongue. "Ritsuka... Ritsuka..." It felt like a prayer, like she was engraving his name into her very soul.
Without thinking, Hela blurted, "Hello, Hela, I'm Ritsuka..."
Her eyes widened in horror. *No! That's not how it's supposed to go!*
"Wait, that's not right!" she quickly corrected, fumbling over her words. She covered her face with both hands, as though trying to hide her embarrassment. *I've ruined it... again...*
Fenris, watching from the side, facepalmed with a heavy sigh. He had seen this coming.
The rest of Ritsuka's group was left speechless. Kadoc, Ophelia, and Goredolf exchanged glances, not quite sure if they were dealing with an ancient evil or a very socially awkward goddess again. Even Scathach, who had fought gods and monsters alike, was taken aback by Hela's clumsy demeanor.
Ritsuka kept his warm smile, though he had to suppress a chuckle. *She's... not what I expected wait maybe she is also like her....no let's gather more information about her before jumping into conclusion.*
Hela quickly gathered herself, standing tall. Her voice boomed across the hall, as though to reclaim her dignity. "I am Hela, ruler of the underworld. I have waited for the Prophecy one..." She paused for a moment, forcing herself to glance at Ritsuka, trying once again to give the kind gaze from the tablet.
But once more, her intense, cold expression seeped through. The hall felt even colder.
Ritsuka met her gaze evenly, still smiling, and spoke calmly, "Thanks for giving us a chance to talk with you and for clearing the roads for us."
Hela's heart tightened as she heard Ritsuka speak so plainly to her. His kindness caught her off-guard again. He noticed... she thought, surprised he had acknowledged her small act of clearing the roads for them. It was something she hadn't even consciously thought of, yet he showed gratitude so effortlessly. The gentle way he spoke to her contrasted the thousands of years she had spent hardening herself against the world.
Ritsuka's next words, though, shifted the tone. "We've come to save you, goddess, and after everything your father did to you... I know what he did is wrong."
At the mention of Odin, Hela's expression darkened instantly. Rage, as familiar to her as her own reflection, surged like a storm in her chest. "That old bastard..." she hissed through gritted teeth. "I will kill him with my own hands. His precious kingdom... both of them used me like a tool! Liars, all of them liars!" Her voice grew cold with fury. "And I heard he had two precious sons. I will kill them in front of him, then imprison him forever." Her eyes gleamed with violent intent as the temperature in the room seemed to drop.
Even Fenris, her loyal companion, sighed internally. ' I hope this one isn't another Odin lackey...'
Ritsuka stood quietly for a moment, the fury in Hela's voice reminding him-oddly-of Kiyohime. Не collected his thoughts and then calmly replied, "Your anger towards Odin is justified, but I don't think killing people-your brothers-is the answer. They don't even respect Odin."
Hela's gaze softened, her cold anger replaced with confusion. "What do you mean?"
Ritsuka explained the events involving Odin and Thor-how his sons had rebelled against him, how Asgard was no longer what it once was, and how even Thor had rejected his father's ways. Hela listened intently, the hatred in her heart swirling with newfound information.
When Ritsuka finished, Hela let out a sudden, bitter laugh. "Serves him right. I would have loved to see mother slap the Allfather senseless." Her eyes gleamed with dark amusement. However, her tone quickly shifted, turning somber. "But that doesn't mean I' Il abandon my revenge... not against those who made me into this." Her gaze darkened again as she recalled her long hatred towards the people of Asgard and her brothers, whom she saw as weaklings who had inherited what she believed was hers by right.
She hesitated, realizing she had shown her rage too openly. No... I've shown him my anger. He probably hates me now... But then a glimmer of hope surfaced in her mind. No, he will understand. He's my partner... right?
Ritsuka, noticing the conflict in her expression, spoke with a firm but understanding tone. "Hela, I don't know what the prophecy says about me. But I want to save as many lives as possible-even Asgard is one of them."
Hela's eyes widened in shock. His words were unexpected-almost naive to her-but there was something about the seriousness in his voice that struck her deeply.
"I know what horrors Asgard committed to become what it is", Ritsuka then paused, recalling the words of someone who had once fought for a similar cause. "There was someone I knew, Percival, from a different world. He told me before he went to face death: 'Even if the world is tainted by darkness, it doesn't mean we should let it fade. We fight so that what remains can have a future. His words match this situation. But hela, don't think too badly of Asgard, or the people who lived there. Every world has its share of good and bad, just like every person. There's no 'bad race' or 'evil society.' It's people who choose to do good or evil." His eyes sharpened as he spoke, remembering the lessons he had learned from so many different worlds and timelines. "I know how much innocent blood has been spilled in Asgard's name, and I know one day Ragnarok will come... but Asgard is still a beautiful place, and it has a future."
Artoria Avalon, standing silently behind Ritsuka, almost had tears in her eyes. She was deeply moved that Ritsuka had remembered Percival's words, words from her world. Artoria Lancer stood tall with pride, proud of both Ritsuka and Percival for their convictions.
Ritsuka held out his hand to Hela, his eyes filled with determination. "Asgard has a future, Hela. And I want to protect it. Will you help me? Odin will face judgment, but by your mother's hand, not yours. But Join me, goddess, in this journey."
Hela was taken aback. His words sent a shock through her entire being. For so long, her thoughts had been dominated by revenge, by destruction. But now, standing before her was someone who sought to preserve, not destroy- who wanted to fight for something greater, even after all he had suffered. The realization that if she chose to destroy Asgard, she would go against the very person she was meant to stand beside sent panic through her heart.
"I... I understand," Hela stammered, uncharacteristically uncertain. "I want to be your strength. I have trained and fought for this moment, Ritsuka. I want you... as my King." She took a step forward, her voice filled with vulnerability she hadn't shown in millennia. "I did everything to become the strongest, so that no one could betray me again..." She faltered, hoping-no, praying that Ritsuka would not abandon her like so many before.
Ritsuka looked at her with a kind but serious expression. His next words, however, shocked everyone.
"Hela, I don't know and I don't have any interest in your pain," he said bluntly.
The room fell silent. Even the Watcher Uatu, who had observed countless worlds, raised an eyebrow in disbelief. The only ones who remained unsurprised were Artoria Avalon, Artoria Lancer, Scathach, and Mashu, who all understood what Ritsuka truly meant.
Hela stood frozen, utterly shocked by his response.
Ritsuka met her gaze evenly, his voice calm yet sincere. "I don't understand your pain, and it would be wrong for me to pretend I do. You' ve endured a thousand years of suffering, and I can't even begin to guess what that must be like. But what I do know is this- you' ve trained yourself to become the strongest, and you've made it here. I don't know if I'm worthy of being the one you want to stand beside, but I will try." His eyes softened as he spoke the last part, his sincerity breaking through her walls.
Hela, feeling the weight of his words, nearly cried. For the first time in her long life, someone hadn't tried to comfort her with empty platitudes. Ritsuka's honesty was more powerful than any of the lies or betrayals she had endured.
"I know it was too much, but I want you to think about this," Ritsuka said, his voice steady, compassionate.
"I-I want some time to think. Let me be alone. Wait in the castle rooms," Hela replied, turning her face away, unable to bear the weight of their gazes any longer. She could feel the heat of their concern, but it only deepened her shame.
"Yeah, you should relax a bit, goddess," Ritsuka replied, trying to ease the tension. He gathered their group, leading them out of the hall, leaving her in the heavy silence of her thoughts.
As the doors closed behind them, Hela felt the walls of the throne room close in around her. She sank onto the throne, the cold stone pressing against her as she finally allowed the facade to crumble. Tears streamed down her cheeks, hot and unchecked.
"See… Fenu, he understood my pain. (Sob)…" Hela whispered, the sound of her own voice echoing back to her in the vast emptiness. Her heart ached, both from the weight of her loneliness and the unexpected warmth Ritsuka had ignited within her. "He… is my light, Ritsuka Fujimaru. I have waited centuries for this moment."
She brought her hands to her face, wanting to hide from the world, to escape the vulnerability that threatened to overwhelm her. After all, she had trained herself to be the strongest; strong people did not cry. Strong people did not break. But here she was, weeping for the very man who represented everything she had sacrificed for, everything she had longed for.
*The prophecy one… my light…*
The truth of her feelings felt heavy, yet liberating. She had spent countless years honing her skills, fighting her own battles, convinced that strength was all she had to offer. Yet now, facing Ritsuka, she felt a flicker of something she had never allowed herself to acknowledge—a hope for companionship, for understanding.
What if she could be more than just a weapon? What if she could be his partner? But that thought brought her back to the gnawing fear lurking in her heart. What if she wasn't enough?
She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block out the thought, but it persisted, echoing louder than her hopes. *What if Ritsuka sees me as weak? What if he can't accept me if I don't live up to the prophecy?*
Hela's mind raced, and she felt the familiar edges of despair creeping back in. She had built her entire existence around strength, around proving herself to a world that had never truly seen her. Would he still look at her with kindness if he knew the truth? The truth that she felt so lost, so small in comparison to the light he brought into her life?
"many years…" she murmured, "I've waited many years for this. For him."
She wiped her tears with the back of her hand, refusing to let them fall any longer. Ritsuka was here now, and she would not let him see her weakness. She would prove herself to him—not just as a warrior, but as someone worthy of his affection.
*I will show him my strength.*
Hela felt the power thrumming beneath her skin, the fury of years of training igniting a fire in her heart. She was the Goddess of Death, the warrior forged in the fires of despair, and she would not be defined by her past failures.
*I will make him see me.*
And just as she steeled her resolve, Hela felt a spark of excitement at the prospect of showing Ritsuka the depths of her strength and determination. Perhaps he would understand that her path had not just been about battle but about sacrifice, about waiting for someone who could finally acknowledge her as she truly was.
As she took a deep breath, she let the tears dry on her cheeks, remnants of vulnerability fading away, replaced by the fierce determination to reclaim her narrative. She would fight not just for Asgard, not just for herself, but for the chance to stand beside Ritsuka as his equal, as the partner he deserved.
*****
Ritsuka led the group to a spacious room deep within the castle. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries depicting legendary battles and the tales of ancient heroes. As they settled in, a sense of unease lingered in the air, but there was also a glimmer of hope after their encounter with Hela.
Ophelia, perched on a nearby armrest, muttered under his breath, "That went better than expected."
Kadoc nodded thoughtfully, "Thank god. This didn't turn into a dramatic mess."
"Yeah, I thought we'd walk into a slaughterhouse," Goredolf chimed in, crossing his arms. "But after what we learned from Ritsuka, Hela has suffered a lot. I felt bad for her. I assumed she'd be a cold-blooded killer who thrives on destruction, but it turns out she's just a tragic character shaped by her kingdom. Damn Odin! He really needs to eat my Ultimate Goof Punch in the face for this."
Artoria Lancer frowned, "Ritsuka, it will be difficult if Hela takes more time to join us."
Ritsuka sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yes, I know. Karen will get worried about me and all of us. I do miss her, but time works differently here. One week here is 10 hours in the real world. So, it won't feel like much time has passed."
Artoria Avalon leaned in, raising an eyebrow. "You noticed that too?" She said while looking at Skadi.
Skadi nodded her head, a smirk playing on her lips. "Show yourself instead of spying on us… Fenris, the monster of Ván."
With that, the giant Fenris appeared in a smaller form, almost like a large wolf cub, his golden eyes glinting with mischief.
"Prophecy One, I'm sorry for interrupting, but thank you for understanding her and not betraying her," he said, bowing his head in respect.
"I just said what I felt; I was honest, that's all," Ritsuka replied, a hint of humility in his voice.
"That's why I'm thanking you. Please, protect Hela at all costs. I know you have many lovers, but please save her. She has gone through so much," Fenris implored.
"I understand, but I think it's better to wait until she and I fully understand everything about ourselves," Ritsuka responded, his gaze steady.
"Haha, you're an interesting one. Many heroes and warriors who believe in justice would have tried to kill her, but you're odd," Fenris chuckled as he remembered when Odin sent few warriors to kill her. But Ofcourse hela tortured them for playing hero role infront of her.
"Thanks for the compliment. I've heard that often, but I truly think Hela is amazing," Ritsuka said, smiling slightly.
"Hahahaha! I see Midgard has people like you. No wonder all gods want to rule it," Fenris laughed.
"Yo, yo, yo! I know you're treating us like side characters, but let me say this: Earth doesn't have anyone like Fujimaru at all. If everyone were like him—a crazy punk—it would be pure horror," Goredolf declared, waving his hands dramatically.
"Yes, Fujimaru is a crazy idiot," Kadoc chimed in. "I know I'm crazy, but I'm not at his level of crazy. And this BASTARD claims he's normal. If he's normal, then what are the rest of us? Ants?"
Ritsuka shot Kadoc a puzzled look. "I don't know if you're praising me or scolding me."
"I'm stating facts, Fujimaru," Kadoc replied, an annoyed but soft look on his face.
"Yes, Senpai is very cool," Karen said, her eyes shining with admiration. "And now he's become Ultimate Senpai with cool powers! I can tell you everything about Senpai. Senpai always cleans the room before sleeping!" she declared proudly, her innocence shining through.
"Stop it, guys, it's embarrassing! And stop holding back your laughs!" Ritsuka exclaimed, casting a glare at Ophelia and Napoleon, who were trying to stifle their chuckles.
Ophelia finally let out a laugh, unable to contain herself any longer. "Come on, kouhai, it's just so much fun to tease you!"
Napoleon grinned, adding, "You really do make it too easy, my friend."
Ritsuka groaned, shaking his head. "You all are terrible."
"Hey, if we can't have fun in the middle of all this chaos, what's the point? You missed us after all" Goredolf quipped, giving Ritsuka a lighthearted punch on the shoulder.
"I can't believe You made a joke , Director" Ritsuka said and everyone laughed
"You brat, haha"
With laughter echoing through the room, Ritsuka felt a sense of camaraderie wash over him. No matter how serious their circumstances were, this moment reminded him that they were all in this together, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
He could only hope that Hela would find her way to join them soon.
****
After some time had passed, Ritsuka had taken on the role of chef, creating a spread of food for the group. The aroma wafted through the castle, and his friends gathered around, excitedly chatting about their mission and Hela's potential to join them.
As he prepared the cakes, Ritsuka contemplated Hela's situation. *For Asgard to shine, Baldur and Hela went into darkness. I think I need to make success light fall on Hela. After all, only I can understand her.*
With that thought in mind, he carefully balanced a platter of cakes and headed toward the hall where Hela was still seated on her throne. As he opened the heavy doors, he was met with her piercing gaze.
"I didn't expect you to come here without anyone. Don't you think I'll attack you?" Hela said, her tone a mix of curiosity and suspicion.
"No, I believe you. After all, you are a warrior," Ritsuka replied confidently, his words striking a chord with her.
Hela's demeanor softened as she gestured for him to sit beside her on the throne. "You have guts, I'll give you that as expected from Prophecy"
"I brought you something to eat," Ritsuka said, setting the platter down before her. "I don't know if you've eaten anything in a thousand years, so I brought this for you."
"What is this?" Hela asked, eyeing the sweet cake with skepticism.
"I created this with my magic. I actually wanted food materials, but I'm lacking them here, so please taste this. It's strawberry cake," Ritsuka explained as he cut a piece and offered it to her.
Hela hesitated, her eyes narrowing at the unfamiliar sight. Tentatively, she took the piece and brought it to her lips. The moment the sweetness touched her tongue, her expression shifted. It was a revelation—something she hadn't experienced in eons.
Ritsuka watched closely as she chewed, her brows furrowing in surprise. "Well? What do you think?"
Hela's eyes widened, a glimmer of delight breaking through her stoic facade. "It's… good," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Here, have the whole cake," Ritsuka said, pushing the platter closer to her.
As she indulged in the treat, her fingers trembled slightly. Hela looked down, seemingly lost in thought as she hesitated before speaking again. "I did kill many in wars and hurt many in my youth…"
"You did what you thought was right for your kingdom in those wars. War itself is hell, and you fought for a reason," Ritsuka said gently, his voice steady. "It was your decision to fight, Hela. Your journey has meaning. You helped Asgard, after all. It still stands tall because of your efforts."
Hela wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, glancing at him, her expression torn. "You really believe that?"
"Absolutely," Ritsuka replied, his gaze unwavering. "You worked hard, Hela. You've been in a dark, quiet place for too long. It's time for you to move forward."
As the words sank in, Hela felt an unexpected wave of emotion wash over her. Tears welled up in her eyes, and Fenris, still in his smaller form, watched from the shadows, astonished.
"I can't believe I'm seeing my master cry for the first time infront of others, you must have become close to her heart, Prophecy One," Fenris muttered, his tone a mixture of disbelief and admiration.
"No! I'm not crying; something fell in my eyes," Hela protested, her voice rising defensively as she wiped at her cheeks.
"Sure, Hela. Whatever you say," Ritsuka said with a small smile, choosing not to press the issue further.
After a moment of silence, Ritsuka decided to create a few more big cakes for Fenris and smaller ones for Hela. He conjured them with a flick of his wrist, placing them before the wolf.
"Here, you both deserve some sweetness too," he said, smiling warmly.
Fenris sniffed the cakes eagerly, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "You're quite the chef, Ritsuka! Who knew you had it in you?"
"It's just a little magic, and I have best mama emiya and older sister boudica to train me, that's all," Ritsuka shrugged, feeling a warmth spreading through him as he saw Hela taking another bite, her demeanor gradually changing with each taste.
Hela glanced at Ritsuka, gratitude evident in her eyes. "Thank you. I… I didn't expect this."
"Neither did I," he admitted, the atmosphere in the hall shifting from tension to camaraderie. "But I think you deserve more than you've allowed yourself. If you want to talk then you are free to talk with me anytime"
As they shared the cakes and laughter echoed around them, Ritsuka felt hopeful that he was paving the way for Hela to step into the light. Perhaps, just perhaps, she would find her place among them.
*****
Next Day
Hela sat in her chambers, twirling a strand of her dark hair between her fingers, her cheeks tinged with an unusual flush. Fenris, ever watchful, noticed her odd behavior and couldn't help but comment.
"Why are you doing something crazy that doesn't suit you, master?" Fenris asked, his tone blunt as always.
"Fenu... I had a dream," Hela said, ignoring his jab but her blush deepened slightly.
Fenris tilted his head, curious but wary of where this was going.
"In the dream, I was imprisoned by Odin, Thor, and Loki. They were... evil. They kept me locked away, and I was crying for help. Suddenly, a prince in royal dress, riding a magnificent horse, appeared and freed me. Then, together, we defeated Odin, Thor, and Loki. And after that... we started to kill them," she explained, her tone unusually soft, the blush on her cheeks deepening even more.
Fenris listened to the dream, his mind immediately dubbing it as childish. *'This is a cringe dream.'*
"Uh, howl! Woo!!" Fenris tried to break the awkward silence with some enthusiasm. "Master, I think it's best not to share this… uh… crin— I mean, *childish* dream with others. You're both grown-ups. Your reputation could take a serious hit."
Hela gasped, her eyes widening as the realization hit her. "Oh, gasp! You're right, Fenu. This could've been bad."
Just then, they heard laughter and shouts from outside. Walking toward the window, they saw Ritsuka in the courtyard below, playing football with his friends and local souls in front of her castle.
Hela squinted. "What is that? Why are they doing something so... crazy?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Fenris sighed and explained, "Ritsuka, after talking with us yesterday, went outside and became friends with the local souls. They all started playing this game called football."
Hela's interest was clearly growing. "Tell me more about Ritsuka."
Fenris felt a shiver run down his spine. His face twisted with discomfort as he spoke. "When Ritsuka plays, his body becomes wet with sweat. His strong muscles are... clearly visible, and his veins stand out on his arms and neck. He kicks the ball beautifully, and when he heads the ball… well, it's... uh, something," Fenris struggled to keep his composure, internally cringing at every word he said.
Hearing this, Hela suddenly started bleeding from her nose. Fenris was horrified.
*'Shit, this is cringe. I hope no one sees me saying this. Otherwise, my reputation is going to hit rock bottom. I never thought I'd end up like this.'* Fenris thought, praying for an escape.
Hela wiped her nose, her expression darkening. "That's it? Nothing happened between him and his lovers?" she asked, a strange intensity in her voice.
Without hesitation, Fenris replied, "All his lovers kissed him during the game, secretly. But of course, I saw them."
Hela's eyes narrowed dangerously, and an unsettling aura surrounded her, giving off intense *yandere* vibes. Just before she could spiral further, Fenris quickly hit her on the head with his paw.
"Snap out of it! You're the last to find him! Of course, the others who found him first got his love. Don't turn into something crazy just because fate's not on your side," Fenris scolded.
Hela rubbed her head, her aura dissipating a little. "Wh-what should I do, Fenu?" she asked, sounding almost vulnerable.
"As someone with experience (failed as lover)," Fenris began, "I must say you're starting from rock bottom here. You don't have any of those feminine vibes like the others. Instead of giving him kind looks, you give him death glares. That's... not a good look, master."
Hela looked defeated. "Then what should I do?"
"Be honest!" Fenris barked. "Tell him about yourself! I know you have trouble with talking about feelings, but just show him how you feel and be genuine. Ritsuka doesn't seem like a bad guy at all."
Hela blinked, digesting the advice, then nodded.
"And... it's time you decide what you're going to do about the Asgard matter," Fenris said before leaving her alone to think.
Hela remained silent, gazing out the window at Ritsuka, who was still laughing and playing outside. Her heart fluttered with uncertainty, but for the first time in centuries, she felt like moving forward.
*****
Evening....
Ritsuka entered Hela's chambers, the air heavy with tension. The usual cold, oppressive atmosphere of Helheim seemed to give way to a warmer, more personal feeling, as if Hela herself was waiting for something important to happen.
Hela's sharp gaze landed on him, and she crossed her arms, trying to hide her unease. "Why did you come alone, Ritsuka? Where are your friends?" she asked, her voice steady but with a hint of curiosity.
"Fenris asked me to come alone," Ritsuka said, standing firm but gentle. "He told me it would be better to talk to you without distractions. And I understand why. I wanted to hear what you had to say directly."
Hela glanced down at the floor for a moment, her brow furrowed in thought before her eyes locked onto Ritsuka again, fiercer this time. "I see... Ritsuka, listen to me carefully. I can never forgive Odin or Asgard. Never." Her voice hardened as she spoke, filled with centuries of bitterness. "They betrayed me, used me, locked me away as if I was nothing more than a weapon. I hate them and I always will."
Ritsuka remained quiet, listening intently, letting her pour out the feelings that had been trapped for so long.
"But…" Hela's voice softened, and her expression changed from anger to something more vulnerable. "I've spent all this time not just focusing on my hatred. I trained every day, preparing myself not to fight against them... but to be strong enough to stand beside you, to be your strength. If you're willing to protect this world, if that's your desire... then I'll respect it. Even if it means protecting Asgard."
Her words were heavy with meaning, and Ritsuka could see the depth of her feelings. She wasn't just a warrior filled with wrath. She was someone who had sacrificed everything for a future that might not come.
"Ritsuka," Hela continued, her eyes finally softening as she gazed at him. "You are worthy... worthy to be my husband."
Ritsuka blinked in surprise, but before he could respond, Hela stood up, her commanding presence returning. "But I won't let you decide so easily. I propose a duel," she declared. "If you win, I'll stay here forever and leave you in peace. But if I win..." She paused, her voice lowering. "Then you will have to love me. And never betray me."
Ritsuka stared at her, understanding the weight behind her words. This wasn't just about winning a fight. It was about trust, about commitment, about her desperate need to no longer be alone.
The duel began, but Ritsuka didn't move. He didn't raise his hand or make any attempt to fight. He stood there, resolute. "Hela, I'm not going to fight you," he said calmly.
Hela's brow furrowed in confusion. "Why?" she demanded, frustration leaking into her voice. "If you win, I'll leave and I won't attack anyone. Isn't that what you want?"
Ritsuka shook his head, his expression soft but serious. "If winning means making you stay here alone forever, then I'd rather lose."
Hela's eyes widened in shock. His words hit her deeper than any sword ever could. Slowly, her defenses crumbled. Her hands trembled, and she approached him, her face turning crimson as she avoided his gaze. "Y-you… really mean that?" she whispered, her voice suddenly small and unsure.
Ritsuka nodded. "I do."
Without another word, Hela wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a tight embrace. She didn't look him in the eye, too overwhelmed by the moment. She had waited for this, for him, for centuries. "Ritsuka… would you... would you let me be part of your family?" she asked, her voice barely audible, afraid of his answer.
Ritsuka smiled softly and hugged her back, warmth filling the cold room. "I think it's too early to talk about family," he said gently. "But I don't want to keep you waiting any longer, Hela. You've waited enough. We have so much time to spend ourselves together."
For a moment, Hela said nothing, just letting the weight of his words sink in. Then, still holding onto him, she murmured, "I'm not... cute or soft like your other lovers. I'm not good at expressing... love. I'm not sure I even know how."
Ritsuka pulled back slightly, enough to meet her gaze, his eyes filled with sincerity. "It doesn't matter. You're not like them. You're Hela. You're strong, beautiful... and in your own way, enchanting. I don't need you to be anything else."
Hela's face turned a deeper shade of red, and for the first time in her long life, she felt a warmth she couldn't describe, a sense of belonging she had never known. She rested her forehead against his chest, her heart racing.
Fenris, watching from a distance, smiled to himself. He felt an unfamiliar but pleasant warmth swell in his chest. *'Finally, master. You've found him.'* Without a sound, he quietly slipped away, leaving the two to their moment.
He was happy and thanked who made this happen in his heart.
****
As Ritsuka and Hela emerged from the shadows, hand in hand, they were met by the warm smiles and relieved faces of their companions. Artoria Avalon, Artoria Lancer, Scathach, Skadi, Ophelia, Napoleon, Kadoc, Director Goredolf, and Mashu—all were standing outside, waiting for them. Fou perched comfortably on Mashu's shoulder, watching them intently.
Fenris took small form and sat on hela shoulders.
Artoria Avalon was the first to step forward, her calm demeanor masking the amusement in her eyes. "I see things went well," she said, glancing at Hela with a knowing smile.
Artoria Lancer followed suit, nodding in approval. "Another one joins us. Welcome." Her tone was warm, though her warrior spirit flickered in her gaze. "I can see we have more in common than I first thought."
Scathach crossed her arms, smiling faintly. "She's not the first goddess to find her way into our family. Welcome, Hela. I understand what it's like to struggle with emotions... Words are unnecessary. Strength speaks for itself and to be in hell forever."
Skadi, who had been standing quietly next to Scathach, gave Hela a kind nod. "You've been through much, Hela. We share the burden of time and power. But you are among friends now."
Napoleon, ever the optimist, winked at Ritsuka. "Looks like you've been busy, Master. But there's always room for more love in our world, right?" His grin faded into something more genuine as he looked at Hela. "Glad to have another goddess in master team."
Ophelia offered a shy smile, nodding in silent understanding.
Goredolf, ever the nervous wreck, seemed more focused on the logistics of the situation than on Hela herself. "Well, well, it seems things are going smoother than expected! I'm glad to see no... *incidents*."
Mashu stepped forward, Fou chirping excitedly on her shoulder. "Welcome, Hela. We're happy you're with us," she said sweetly, and then her eyes widened as she recognized something in the distance. "Wait... That's... Odin's raven?"
The air shifted as a large crow appeared before them, its black feathers shining like ink in the twilight. The group tensed, recognizing it as one of Odin's messengers. Kadoc's eyes narrowed. "It's from the stories... one of Odin's crows."
Ritsuka stepped forward, meeting the bird's gaze head-on. "Odin... it's over," he said firmly, his words full of finality.
With those words, the crow transformed into a swirling black portal, beckoning them forward. Everyone knew what it meant. It was time to go to Asgard.
"Let's go," Ritsuka said, holding out his hand to Hela.
Hela looked at him, her once cold and distant expression now softening into something akin to joy. She took his hand without hesitation. "Yes, let's."
They all stepped through the portal together, emerging into the grand hall of Asgard. As soon as they arrived, Hela's divine power surged within her, reinvigorating her as if the very air of Asgard filled her with new life.
Fenris jumped into her shadow to hide.
Before them stood Odin, looking more aged and sorrowful than ever before. Beside him were Yao, Thor, Loki, Frigga, and the others—Sitonai, Sigurd, Brynhildr, Ortlinde, Hildr, Thrúd, and the Enchantress. The tension in the hall was palpable, but no one dared to move.
The moment Frigga saw Hela, she broke free from the stifling silence. Without hesitation, she rushed forward and embraced her daughter tightly. "Hela!" she cried, her voice thick with emotion. "My daughter... I'm so sorry."
Hela stiffened at first, unaccustomed to such affection, but then slowly, hesitantly, she hugged Frigga back. For the first time in centuries, Hela felt a mother's warmth, and though she didn't speak, the embrace spoke volumes. Neither of them spared a glance at Odin, whose presence felt smaller with every passing second.
Odin watched, his eyes clouded with regret. The Allfather, once the mightiest of all, now felt powerless in the face of the family he had shattered.
It was Director Goredolf who finally broke the silence. He stepped forward, puffing out his chest as if preparing for battle. "Odin, you've failed spectacularly," Goredolf said, his voice rising with confidence. "As a ruler, as a father—zero points! You've only brought pain to Hela and those you claim to care for. You tried to manipulate Ritsuka and the rest of us for your own gain, and look where it's gotten you!"
Odin's eyes flickered with anger, and for a moment, it seemed as though the Allfather would lash out. "How dare you, mortal," he growled. "You speak as though you understand the weight of my decisions. I—"
But before Odin could say more, Yao gently placed a hand on his shoulder, his calm demeanor as soothing as ever. "Odin," Yao said softly but firmly, "you're already in a bad situation. Don't make it worse. Goredolf might be blunt, but his words hold truth. You've lost much already. Don't lose what little you still have."
Odin clenched his fists, his pride warring with his guilt, but Yao's words had the intended effect. Slowly, Odin's anger subsided, and he remained silent.
Frigga, however, wasn't done. She pulled away from Hela and turned toward Odin, her eyes cold. "I've had decided, hela, my Daughter," she said, her voice steady. "I'm leaving Asgard. I've already taken steps to divorce odin. I'm done being the wife of the Allfather. From now on, I'll live on Earth. With my daughter."
Her declaration sent shockwaves through the hall, leaving Ritsuka's group stunned.
Ritsuka's friends whispered among themselves, taken aback by Frigga's sudden decision. Napoleon, ever the optimist, smiled and whispered to Ritsuka, "Looks like things are going to get interesting down on Earth, huh?"
Hela, though still shocked by her mother's decision, found a small smile creeping onto her face. For the first time in her life, she wasn't alone. Her mother, her new family—they were all here for her.
---
Note: how is the chapter guys? I don't of this was best or good. But i was satisfied with this.
And Also What are your thoughts on Besti Fenris? Is he best loyal friend to hela?
How many have pets? I don't have but planning to buy in future.
Also this Fenris is same power level of his Mythology version. Not only him but other creatures also. You will see in future.
Also another important thing, Next is Volume 1 end chapter so no break, I already completed it. So don't forget to read.
Please support me with infinity stones.
Peace out!