The Wedding Of Freyr and Gerd
Freyr awoke as the rays of Sunna's luminescence reached his tired eyes. He had not slept well because he was too filled with a mixture of anxiety, excitement, and nervousnous. Luckily, however, his adrenaline level was so high he could not comprehend his own exhaustion. He had never known feelings such as he was feeling on this, what to him was the most important day of his life. Not even in the victory of battle had he ever reached this level of pure joy and happiness.
As he looked out at the morning begun, he smiled as he thought of his true love, and bride to be. From the first moment he had seen her pure radiant beauty, from the high - seat at Hildskjalf, he had wanted her, needed her, and of course loved her with all his heart. Yes, today was the happiest day of Freyr' s life. Today he would marry his one and only love, the beautiful Jotun Gerd.
Odin had offered his great hall, as did Balder, for the joining ceremony, but Freyr had respectfully declined both offers. Freyr wanted his wedding to take place out in the natural world, where the sky was his ceiling, the great forests his walls, and fields of grass and wildflowers were his flooring. Sunna would be the light of his outdoor hall by day, and Mani, aided by the stars would illuminate the night. From his window he could see the lovely flowered arches that were erected across each of the roads that led into the great meadow. Freyja herself, with the help of other Vanir women, had worked tirelessly to erect these beautiful towers of flowers. Nothing was too good, or too much trouble, for her wonderful brother on his special day. Freyja was very happy these days anyway because her husband Od had come home just in time for the great wedding. Even the ever quarreling Njord and Skadhi had come together to help with the wedding preparations.
Gerd's people contributed to the wedding festivities by bringing many great cauldrons of ale, mead, and even some wine for Great Odin. Her Jotun kin also provided great quantities of meat for the feast afterwards. Great carts filled with oxen, deer, rabbit, and all manner of gamebirds had rumbled over the Asgardian roads the past few days. The Jotuns wanted to be sure that no belly would be wanting after the feast was done. Though not entirely happy with Freyr as a husband, they were glad, and relieved, that he was of the Vanir race , and not of the Aesir. Their people did not have a history of violence with the " magical people ", as they did with the warrior Aesir. And then of course there was Thor ! They also could not deny that Freyr's love was genuine for Gymir's daughter, and had therefore relented, and agreed to the union. Besides it was not as though Jotuns had not married into the race's of the Gods before.
As Gerd dressed in a flowing gown made of the finest fabric to be found in all of Jotunheim, she smiled. Actually, she almost laughed when she thought of how she had allowed Skirnir to " threaten " her into agreeing to this wedding. Gerd giggled a little because she knew that she needed no threats or prodding to marry Freyr. She loved Freyr very much, and made sure that her wedding gown showed off her pure white arms that had first attracted him to her. Unlike some of her people who were concerned about being amongst the Gods and Goddesses, she knew that after the wedding she would be accepted into the Aesir as a Goddess. She also knew that by joining herself with the Gods she was gaining protection for her extended family as well. Gerd was deeply impressed by how well respected Freyr was among the Aesir, and was very proud of him. As she placed some flowers in her hair she day - dreamed about how wonderful her life would soon be with her husband, the Great Vanir God Freyr. Yes, she was very happy indeed !
Freyr was not as confident in himself as he normally was as he dressed. He fumbled in his nervousnous while putting on his best clothes. It was a feeling he was not used to, and one that he did not like very much. When he put on his scabbard, and saw that it was empty, he was saddened. But his sadness only lasted for a moment. He realized fully that he had received the better prize in the trade for his magical sword. His father, Njord of Noatun, had stopped by the day before and given his son one of his finest swords to wear on his big day. He knew that the wearing of a sword was only a symbolic gesture to signify that he promised to defend his wife and her family, but symbols were important at times like these.
Then, suddenly there was heard throughout all of Asgard a cacophony of loud horns, the loudest blown by Heimdall himself, being continuously blown. Freyr took a deep breath, as he realized that the long awaited moment had finally arrived. The nine nights were finally over, and his much anticipated wedding was about to begin. He checked himself one last time before walking out the door to meet his love.
Gerd, not far away, took a cleansing breath at about the same time, checked her appearance a few more times, and then aided by Gersemi and Hnoss, who held up her long flowing gown, slowly and carefully walked to the great meadow to meet her one and only love, Freyr. It was not only her arms that shone at this moment but there was an aura of radiant beauty that emanated from her that made those who saw her look away, or shield their eyes. Only Freyr could look through this glow and into the face of the woman he had waited what seemed to be an eternity for. But now the waiting was was over, and the wedding was about to begin !
End Part 1
The meadow where the ceremony would take place was absolutely beautiful ! Behind a large golden altar, which sat atop a small hill, Freyja and her Vanir sisters had erected an inter - connecting trellis strewn with the most beautiful flowers in all the nine worlds. Their fragrance filled the entire meadow with an intoxicating scent that brought a smile to the face of everyone who caught its delightful smell. Off to one side of, and behind the trellis, were two immense golden arches which led into the fields where the feast and games would be held after the ceremony. Here hundreds of golden tables and benches had been set up for the wedding guests. In addittion to a knife and fork, every setting on these shining tables had a golden plate and a silver goblet.
Gerd and Freyr met at the flowered arch that was closest to the golden altar. Njord and Skadhi, and Gymir and Aurboda, were already there greeting the earliest guests as they entered the meadow. At the other side of the arch stood Skirnir with a great host of servants and stable boys to take the carts, horses, or whatever the guests rode up on, or in, to an adjacent field to be watered and fed. The Ogress Hyrokkin, from Jotunheim, came on a wolf that was especially hard to handle. The wolf wound up dragging four of Skirnir's men all the way to the field, where to their dismay it made a meal out of one of the other Jotun's horses !
Gerd and Freyr gave each other an occassional naughty smile as they greeted the guests with their parents. The procession of visitors seemed endless ! The Jotuns, some of whom had to bow their heads slightly to get under the flowered arch, were some of the first to come. Soon, however, there was a mixture of guests from all the nine worlds streaming past the happy, and grinning couple. Valkyries, Giants, Light Elves, Vanir, Aesir, and even the einherjar were part of this long procession that entered the great meadow. Some were surprised to see Hel walk the flowered archway, but she was an invited guest, and was greeted accordingly. There was a little bit of a stir when Njord turned to greet the next visitor and saw that it was Urd. Suddenly there was a hushed silence throughout the meadow ! Verdandi, seeing the expression on Njord's face, asked if they were not welcome here. Skadhi then stepped in front of Njord, and said that all were welcome to Freyr and Gerd's wedding. As she passed Njord and Skadhi, Skuld looked at Gerd and Freyr, closed her eyes, and said with a bitter smile, " I see a bright future for both of you." Gerd and Freyr looked at each other, and then thanked Skuld for her prophetic words, but were much relieved when the Norns passed. The Aesir, though they were closest to the meadow, were some of the last to arrive, and made a grand entrance to the chagrin of the Jotuns. Aurboda turned to Gymir, and whispered under her breath to her husband ," what a bunch of showoffs! " Only the Dwarves did not come to the wedding. They would come later when Sunna was no longer crossing the sky.
When the last of the guests had arrived, and taken their places at the bottom of the small hill below the golden altar, horns were blown to signify that the ceremony was about to begin. Gerd and Freyr gave each other nervous glances as everyone took their places. Odin who had taken his rightful place behind the altar with Frigga, commanded in a booming voice that the families, and the couple, come before the sacred altar. Njord and Skadhi walked in front, followed by Gymir and Aurboda. Then Freyr and Gerd walked arm in arm, with Hnoss and Gersemi in tow holding her dress off of the ground. Freyja and Balder, the ring holders, were last in this procession. Just before the altar Njord and Skadhi moved to the left of the altar, and Gymir and Aurboda moved to the left. This allowed Freyr and Gerd to walk through the middle and stand directly in front of the altar. Balder took his place next to Freyr, and Freyja took her place next to Gerd. When everyone was in place Odin nodded a greeting to all those before him as did Frigga.
The crowd which had gotten a little unruly suddenly went silent when Odin raised his hands to get their attention. Thor shook his head in pride and wonder at how much all those in the nine worlds respected his father. Odin then spoke to everyone, " Here today, in this meadow, and before our ancestors, you are all to be witnesses to this oath of union between Freyr, the son of Njord and Skadhi, and Gerd, the daughter of Gymir and Aurboda. Remember well what you see and hear this day my friends ! " After a moment Odin continued : " Marriage is not merely a union of two people, but of two bloodlines, and in this case of two peoples." Odin then turned to Freyr and asked, " Will you join with this woman and pledge your love, loyalty, and protection to her and her family ? " Freyr boldly smiled at Gerd and replied, " This I promise with all my heart, and strength great Odin ! " The crowd shouted its approval, until Odin once again raised his hands and silenced them.
Frigga then spoke : " Gerd will you join with this man, and pledge your loyalty, and absolute devotion to him ?" Gerd smiled through tears of joy and shouted for all to hear, " I make my promise here and now to be a loyal and devoted wife to Freyr, Mother Frigga. I cannot live without him ! " Another burst of cheers came from the guests, which quickly ended with a simple wave of Odin's hand.
Odin then asked, " Who here holds the rings that bind ? " Freyja and Balder both replied in unison. " I do All - Father ! " Freyja handed Gerd's ring to Freyr, and Balder handed Freyr's ring to Gerd. Odin then commanded Freyr to place the ring upon Gerd's finger. Odin seeing the ring upon her finger shouted for all to hear: " This ring binds you in spirit forever. Let no one break this sacred bond ! Do you understand this oath Freyr ? " Odin then asked. Freyr looked away from Gerd just long enough to answer, " Yes, Great Odin ! " Frigga then instructed Gerd to place the ring upon Freyr's finger. Seeing it in place she then said to Gerd, " Do you understand that this rings unites you forever ? " Gerd replied, but did not look away from Freyr, " I understand, and will honor my oath to Freyr forever ! "
Odin then asked for their ring hands, which they both offered to him. Odin reached under his belt and pulled out a long and very sharp knife. He made a small cut on both of their hands, just deep enough to make the blood flow. He then clasped their hands together and shouted, " Before the altar of our ancestors you have taken an oath of eternal union in blood. You are forever one spirit and no one can rip you apart ! You and your families are now one and the same. Be good to each other, and be happy forever my children ! " Then with a smile he shouted : " Now kiss the damn woman and let the feast begin ! " The audience erupted into shouted cheers and whistles, that it is said could be heard in all the nine worlds. Odin did nothing to quell their enthusiasm this time, but instead joined right in the cheering as the happy couple turned and waved to the onlookers. With the couple united the feast and games could now begin !
End Part 2
As the cheering died down the einherjar formed on the other side of the golden arches, facing each other, in two parallel lines. Each had a golden tipped spear in hand, which they held high and crossed with the one held by the warrior directly across from him. It was through this tunnel of golden spears that Gerd and Freyr, and the rest of the wedding party, walked through to reach the feasting area on the other side of the hill. When they reached the end of the tunnel the wedding party stopped and were congratulated by the guests as they walked by. The guests placed their gifts, for the wedding couple to the right, and were then escorted to their seats by Skirnir's men.
The Aesir, Vanir and Alfar sat together in one area which was by the front of the stage area. The Ogres, Jotuns and Witches, were seated just behind and to one side. The Dwarves who had not arrived yet because there was still a speck of daylight left, were to be seated way in the back by the treeline. Dwarves tended to be rather loud and obnoxious, and the Aesir did not want their behavior to disrupt the festivities. Gymir and Aurboda were the exception to this seating arrangement. They were seated at the Aesir table directly across from Thor and Sif. Thor and Gymir would occassionally give each other cold stares, which was not missed by Odin. Odin, who sat at the head of the table with Frigga by his side, placed his hand on Thor's shoulder and said softly , but sternly, " Not tonight son ! Remember they are Freyr's family now. " Thor's eyes lost their fiery glow, and he nodded in agreement. After Odin made a toast to the wedded couple, Thor even went so far as to toast Gerd's parents, which made Odin smile with pride.
The feast was marvellous ! There was more than enough food to satisfy even the hardiest belly. The Dwarves, who had arrived at dusk, were the hardest to please, but agreed that the meal was adequate. They felt they had a right to expect more than the other guests because they brought the finest handmade gifts for the couple, some of which had magical properties.
After the feasting and toasting were over the tables emptied and while some watched the dancers, jugglers, or magicians, some simply enjoyed the musicians who played their stringed instruments. One juggler in particular caught everyone's eyes. He could juggle any object given to him including weapons such as knives, swords and axes. Loki tried to distract the performer but his concentration was unflappable.
In one corner of the banquet area, over near the woods, Ullr and Skadhi were locked in an archery competition. Those who had gathered to watch were amazed by the accuracy of these wonderful marksman. Skadhi and Ullr playfully smiled at each other every time they hit their target dead center. Njord watched from a short distance with only mild interest. When a servant walked by with a tray of apples Skadhi tracked him with her keen eye and shot one of the apples right off of the moving tray. Not to be outdone Ullr then took aim and shot the next apple off before the servant even realized what was happening. When he did understand what happened he put the tray down on the closest table and ran away. Everyone laughed heartily at the servants discomfort.
At the other end of the clearing, by the Dwarves tables, Balder proudly bared his chest to any Aesir, Jotun, Alfar, Dwarf, or even Einherjar, who would then take all manner of throwing weapons and hurl them at him. He laughed as each sharp weapon bounced harmlessly off of him. The small crowd that had gathered cheered each and every time ! When Gerd and Freyr passed the line for Balder's game, Balder asked everyone in line if they would mind if the fair Gerd could be next to test his great strength because she had never seen this before. The line parted to let her in, and a Dwarf waddled up to her, handed her a very sharp axe, and said in a gravely voice, " Aim for the heart. " . Gerd, nervous, but in the spirit of the occasion, took careful aim and threw the axe with some force. When the axe struck Balder, he grabbed his chest and fell to the ground . Everyone gasped in horror as Balder lay there on the ground motionless ! Balder then smiled, jumped up laughing, and ran over and kissed Gerd on the cheek. The crowd roared at this, and even Gerd started laughing ,and playfully punched Balder in the chest. In the darkness by the edge of the woods, Loki watched all of this very intently.
Thor sat playing drinking games with the Aesir, and some of the Jotuns as well. No one could out drink the Mighty Thor, thought Sif, who was sitting at another table talking to Nanna, Frigga, and Eir. At the other end of this table Aegir and Bragi were testing each other's knowledge in a game of wits. The Dwarves spent most of their time at their table gambling with each other, and playing games, and were actually much more subdued than usual. Even the usually stoic Jotuns were getting into the spirit of the occasion, and were laughing and singing drinking songs.
The Einherjar played an especially unusual game that drew quite an audience around them. One warrior would kneel and make a muscle with their arm. Another warrior would stand above him, and drop a sharp knife, point first of course, onto his flexed muscle. If the knife bounce off he went on to the next round, but if he bled he was disqualified. Each round saw the knife dropped from a higher and higher height until finally only one man was left unscathed. Everyone toasted this brave man !
Early in the morning a great light appeared behind the golden arches. The Dwarves at first panicked thinking it was the rising sun. Eitri, who realized it was just Gullinborsti pulling a golden cart, quickly calmed down his comrades . This signaled the end of the festivities, and meant it was time for the newly wed couple to leave and start their life together. Their first stop would be to the land of Gimle. The Light Elves had invited them to enjoy their first few weeks of marriage as their guests in the beautiful land of Gimle, and the couple was more than happy to accept.
The couple waved to the well - wishers one last time before entering the golden cart. Then Gullinborsti and the cart lifted off the ground and into the air. Some in the crowd waved until Gullinborsti's light disappeared into the distance. Everyone agreed it was the most beautiful wedding they had ever been to !
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.
As he looked out at the morning begun, he smiled as he thought of his true love, and bride to be. From the first moment he had seen her pure radiant beauty, from the high - seat at Hildskjalf, he had wanted her, needed her, and of course loved her with all his heart. Yes, today was the happiest day of Freyr' s life. Today he would marry his one and only love, the beautiful Jotun Gerd.
Odin had offered his great hall, as did Balder, for the joining ceremony, but Freyr had respectfully declined both offers. Freyr wanted his wedding to take place out in the natural world, where the sky was his ceiling, the great forests his walls, and fields of grass and wildflowers were his flooring. Sunna would be the light of his outdoor hall by day, and Mani, aided by the stars would illuminate the night. From his window he could see the lovely flowered arches that were erected across each of the roads that led into the great meadow. Freyja herself, with the help of other Vanir women, had worked tirelessly to erect these beautiful towers of flowers. Nothing was too good, or too much trouble, for her wonderful brother on his special day. Freyja was very happy these days anyway because her husband Od had come home just in time for the great wedding. Even the ever quarreling Njord and Skadhi had come together to help with the wedding preparations.
Gerd's people contributed to the wedding festivities by bringing many great cauldrons of ale, mead, and even some wine for Great Odin. Her Jotun kin also provided great quantities of meat for the feast afterwards. Great carts filled with oxen, deer, rabbit, and all manner of gamebirds had rumbled over the Asgardian roads the past few days. The Jotuns wanted to be sure that no belly would be wanting after the feast was done. Though not entirely happy with Freyr as a husband, they were glad, and relieved, that he was of the Vanir race , and not of the Aesir. Their people did not have a history of violence with the " magical people ", as they did with the warrior Aesir. And then of course there was Thor ! They also could not deny that Freyr's love was genuine for Gymir's daughter, and had therefore relented, and agreed to the union. Besides it was not as though Jotuns had not married into the race's of the Gods before.
As Gerd dressed in a flowing gown made of the finest fabric to be found in all of Jotunheim, she smiled. Actually, she almost laughed when she thought of how she had allowed Skirnir to " threaten " her into agreeing to this wedding. Gerd giggled a little because she knew that she needed no threats or prodding to marry Freyr. She loved Freyr very much, and made sure that her wedding gown showed off her pure white arms that had first attracted him to her. Unlike some of her people who were concerned about being amongst the Gods and Goddesses, she knew that after the wedding she would be accepted into the Aesir as a Goddess. She also knew that by joining herself with the Gods she was gaining protection for her extended family as well. Gerd was deeply impressed by how well respected Freyr was among the Aesir, and was very proud of him. As she placed some flowers in her hair she day - dreamed about how wonderful her life would soon be with her husband, the Great Vanir God Freyr. Yes, she was very happy indeed !
Freyr was not as confident in himself as he normally was as he dressed. He fumbled in his nervousnous while putting on his best clothes. It was a feeling he was not used to, and one that he did not like very much. When he put on his scabbard, and saw that it was empty, he was saddened. But his sadness only lasted for a moment. He realized fully that he had received the better prize in the trade for his magical sword. His father, Njord of Noatun, had stopped by the day before and given his son one of his finest swords to wear on his big day. He knew that the wearing of a sword was only a symbolic gesture to signify that he promised to defend his wife and her family, but symbols were important at times like these.
Then, suddenly there was heard throughout all of Asgard a cacophony of loud horns, the loudest blown by Heimdall himself, being continuously blown. Freyr took a deep breath, as he realized that the long awaited moment had finally arrived. The nine nights were finally over, and his much anticipated wedding was about to begin. He checked himself one last time before walking out the door to meet his love.
Gerd, not far away, took a cleansing breath at about the same time, checked her appearance a few more times, and then aided by Gersemi and Hnoss, who held up her long flowing gown, slowly and carefully walked to the great meadow to meet her one and only love, Freyr. It was not only her arms that shone at this moment but there was an aura of radiant beauty that emanated from her that made those who saw her look away, or shield their eyes. Only Freyr could look through this glow and into the face of the woman he had waited what seemed to be an eternity for. But now the waiting was was over, and the wedding was about to begin !
End Part 1
The meadow where the ceremony would take place was absolutely beautiful ! Behind a large golden altar, which sat atop a small hill, Freyja and her Vanir sisters had erected an inter - connecting trellis strewn with the most beautiful flowers in all the nine worlds. Their fragrance filled the entire meadow with an intoxicating scent that brought a smile to the face of everyone who caught its delightful smell. Off to one side of, and behind the trellis, were two immense golden arches which led into the fields where the feast and games would be held after the ceremony. Here hundreds of golden tables and benches had been set up for the wedding guests. In addittion to a knife and fork, every setting on these shining tables had a golden plate and a silver goblet.
Gerd and Freyr met at the flowered arch that was closest to the golden altar. Njord and Skadhi, and Gymir and Aurboda, were already there greeting the earliest guests as they entered the meadow. At the other side of the arch stood Skirnir with a great host of servants and stable boys to take the carts, horses, or whatever the guests rode up on, or in, to an adjacent field to be watered and fed. The Ogress Hyrokkin, from Jotunheim, came on a wolf that was especially hard to handle. The wolf wound up dragging four of Skirnir's men all the way to the field, where to their dismay it made a meal out of one of the other Jotun's horses !
Gerd and Freyr gave each other an occassional naughty smile as they greeted the guests with their parents. The procession of visitors seemed endless ! The Jotuns, some of whom had to bow their heads slightly to get under the flowered arch, were some of the first to come. Soon, however, there was a mixture of guests from all the nine worlds streaming past the happy, and grinning couple. Valkyries, Giants, Light Elves, Vanir, Aesir, and even the einherjar were part of this long procession that entered the great meadow. Some were surprised to see Hel walk the flowered archway, but she was an invited guest, and was greeted accordingly. There was a little bit of a stir when Njord turned to greet the next visitor and saw that it was Urd. Suddenly there was a hushed silence throughout the meadow ! Verdandi, seeing the expression on Njord's face, asked if they were not welcome here. Skadhi then stepped in front of Njord, and said that all were welcome to Freyr and Gerd's wedding. As she passed Njord and Skadhi, Skuld looked at Gerd and Freyr, closed her eyes, and said with a bitter smile, " I see a bright future for both of you." Gerd and Freyr looked at each other, and then thanked Skuld for her prophetic words, but were much relieved when the Norns passed. The Aesir, though they were closest to the meadow, were some of the last to arrive, and made a grand entrance to the chagrin of the Jotuns. Aurboda turned to Gymir, and whispered under her breath to her husband ," what a bunch of showoffs! " Only the Dwarves did not come to the wedding. They would come later when Sunna was no longer crossing the sky.
When the last of the guests had arrived, and taken their places at the bottom of the small hill below the golden altar, horns were blown to signify that the ceremony was about to begin. Gerd and Freyr gave each other nervous glances as everyone took their places. Odin who had taken his rightful place behind the altar with Frigga, commanded in a booming voice that the families, and the couple, come before the sacred altar. Njord and Skadhi walked in front, followed by Gymir and Aurboda. Then Freyr and Gerd walked arm in arm, with Hnoss and Gersemi in tow holding her dress off of the ground. Freyja and Balder, the ring holders, were last in this procession. Just before the altar Njord and Skadhi moved to the left of the altar, and Gymir and Aurboda moved to the left. This allowed Freyr and Gerd to walk through the middle and stand directly in front of the altar. Balder took his place next to Freyr, and Freyja took her place next to Gerd. When everyone was in place Odin nodded a greeting to all those before him as did Frigga.
The crowd which had gotten a little unruly suddenly went silent when Odin raised his hands to get their attention. Thor shook his head in pride and wonder at how much all those in the nine worlds respected his father. Odin then spoke to everyone, " Here today, in this meadow, and before our ancestors, you are all to be witnesses to this oath of union between Freyr, the son of Njord and Skadhi, and Gerd, the daughter of Gymir and Aurboda. Remember well what you see and hear this day my friends ! " After a moment Odin continued : " Marriage is not merely a union of two people, but of two bloodlines, and in this case of two peoples." Odin then turned to Freyr and asked, " Will you join with this woman and pledge your love, loyalty, and protection to her and her family ? " Freyr boldly smiled at Gerd and replied, " This I promise with all my heart, and strength great Odin ! " The crowd shouted its approval, until Odin once again raised his hands and silenced them.
Frigga then spoke : " Gerd will you join with this man, and pledge your loyalty, and absolute devotion to him ?" Gerd smiled through tears of joy and shouted for all to hear, " I make my promise here and now to be a loyal and devoted wife to Freyr, Mother Frigga. I cannot live without him ! " Another burst of cheers came from the guests, which quickly ended with a simple wave of Odin's hand.
Odin then asked, " Who here holds the rings that bind ? " Freyja and Balder both replied in unison. " I do All - Father ! " Freyja handed Gerd's ring to Freyr, and Balder handed Freyr's ring to Gerd. Odin then commanded Freyr to place the ring upon Gerd's finger. Odin seeing the ring upon her finger shouted for all to hear: " This ring binds you in spirit forever. Let no one break this sacred bond ! Do you understand this oath Freyr ? " Odin then asked. Freyr looked away from Gerd just long enough to answer, " Yes, Great Odin ! " Frigga then instructed Gerd to place the ring upon Freyr's finger. Seeing it in place she then said to Gerd, " Do you understand that this rings unites you forever ? " Gerd replied, but did not look away from Freyr, " I understand, and will honor my oath to Freyr forever ! "
Odin then asked for their ring hands, which they both offered to him. Odin reached under his belt and pulled out a long and very sharp knife. He made a small cut on both of their hands, just deep enough to make the blood flow. He then clasped their hands together and shouted, " Before the altar of our ancestors you have taken an oath of eternal union in blood. You are forever one spirit and no one can rip you apart ! You and your families are now one and the same. Be good to each other, and be happy forever my children ! " Then with a smile he shouted : " Now kiss the damn woman and let the feast begin ! " The audience erupted into shouted cheers and whistles, that it is said could be heard in all the nine worlds. Odin did nothing to quell their enthusiasm this time, but instead joined right in the cheering as the happy couple turned and waved to the onlookers. With the couple united the feast and games could now begin !
End Part 2
As the cheering died down the einherjar formed on the other side of the golden arches, facing each other, in two parallel lines. Each had a golden tipped spear in hand, which they held high and crossed with the one held by the warrior directly across from him. It was through this tunnel of golden spears that Gerd and Freyr, and the rest of the wedding party, walked through to reach the feasting area on the other side of the hill. When they reached the end of the tunnel the wedding party stopped and were congratulated by the guests as they walked by. The guests placed their gifts, for the wedding couple to the right, and were then escorted to their seats by Skirnir's men.
The Aesir, Vanir and Alfar sat together in one area which was by the front of the stage area. The Ogres, Jotuns and Witches, were seated just behind and to one side. The Dwarves who had not arrived yet because there was still a speck of daylight left, were to be seated way in the back by the treeline. Dwarves tended to be rather loud and obnoxious, and the Aesir did not want their behavior to disrupt the festivities. Gymir and Aurboda were the exception to this seating arrangement. They were seated at the Aesir table directly across from Thor and Sif. Thor and Gymir would occassionally give each other cold stares, which was not missed by Odin. Odin, who sat at the head of the table with Frigga by his side, placed his hand on Thor's shoulder and said softly , but sternly, " Not tonight son ! Remember they are Freyr's family now. " Thor's eyes lost their fiery glow, and he nodded in agreement. After Odin made a toast to the wedded couple, Thor even went so far as to toast Gerd's parents, which made Odin smile with pride.
The feast was marvellous ! There was more than enough food to satisfy even the hardiest belly. The Dwarves, who had arrived at dusk, were the hardest to please, but agreed that the meal was adequate. They felt they had a right to expect more than the other guests because they brought the finest handmade gifts for the couple, some of which had magical properties.
After the feasting and toasting were over the tables emptied and while some watched the dancers, jugglers, or magicians, some simply enjoyed the musicians who played their stringed instruments. One juggler in particular caught everyone's eyes. He could juggle any object given to him including weapons such as knives, swords and axes. Loki tried to distract the performer but his concentration was unflappable.
In one corner of the banquet area, over near the woods, Ullr and Skadhi were locked in an archery competition. Those who had gathered to watch were amazed by the accuracy of these wonderful marksman. Skadhi and Ullr playfully smiled at each other every time they hit their target dead center. Njord watched from a short distance with only mild interest. When a servant walked by with a tray of apples Skadhi tracked him with her keen eye and shot one of the apples right off of the moving tray. Not to be outdone Ullr then took aim and shot the next apple off before the servant even realized what was happening. When he did understand what happened he put the tray down on the closest table and ran away. Everyone laughed heartily at the servants discomfort.
At the other end of the clearing, by the Dwarves tables, Balder proudly bared his chest to any Aesir, Jotun, Alfar, Dwarf, or even Einherjar, who would then take all manner of throwing weapons and hurl them at him. He laughed as each sharp weapon bounced harmlessly off of him. The small crowd that had gathered cheered each and every time ! When Gerd and Freyr passed the line for Balder's game, Balder asked everyone in line if they would mind if the fair Gerd could be next to test his great strength because she had never seen this before. The line parted to let her in, and a Dwarf waddled up to her, handed her a very sharp axe, and said in a gravely voice, " Aim for the heart. " . Gerd, nervous, but in the spirit of the occasion, took careful aim and threw the axe with some force. When the axe struck Balder, he grabbed his chest and fell to the ground . Everyone gasped in horror as Balder lay there on the ground motionless ! Balder then smiled, jumped up laughing, and ran over and kissed Gerd on the cheek. The crowd roared at this, and even Gerd started laughing ,and playfully punched Balder in the chest. In the darkness by the edge of the woods, Loki watched all of this very intently.
Thor sat playing drinking games with the Aesir, and some of the Jotuns as well. No one could out drink the Mighty Thor, thought Sif, who was sitting at another table talking to Nanna, Frigga, and Eir. At the other end of this table Aegir and Bragi were testing each other's knowledge in a game of wits. The Dwarves spent most of their time at their table gambling with each other, and playing games, and were actually much more subdued than usual. Even the usually stoic Jotuns were getting into the spirit of the occasion, and were laughing and singing drinking songs.
The Einherjar played an especially unusual game that drew quite an audience around them. One warrior would kneel and make a muscle with their arm. Another warrior would stand above him, and drop a sharp knife, point first of course, onto his flexed muscle. If the knife bounce off he went on to the next round, but if he bled he was disqualified. Each round saw the knife dropped from a higher and higher height until finally only one man was left unscathed. Everyone toasted this brave man !
Early in the morning a great light appeared behind the golden arches. The Dwarves at first panicked thinking it was the rising sun. Eitri, who realized it was just Gullinborsti pulling a golden cart, quickly calmed down his comrades . This signaled the end of the festivities, and meant it was time for the newly wed couple to leave and start their life together. Their first stop would be to the land of Gimle. The Light Elves had invited them to enjoy their first few weeks of marriage as their guests in the beautiful land of Gimle, and the couple was more than happy to accept.
The couple waved to the well - wishers one last time before entering the golden cart. Then Gullinborsti and the cart lifted off the ground and into the air. Some in the crowd waved until Gullinborsti's light disappeared into the distance. Everyone agreed it was the most beautiful wedding they had ever been to !
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.
All - Mother
Frigga was humming a Vanir tune while she was spinning some thread, at her home in Fensalir. Suddenly, she heard the fluttering of wings and felt a breeze of air across her face. " Where have you been Hugin ? I have been waiting for you for hours ! " Said Frigga. The great raven landed gently on her shoulder, and whispered in her ear, " My first duty is to Great Odin, All - Mother. " Impatient Frigga replied, " Yes, yes, but tell me, how is the sick little girl named Hilda doing in Midgard ? " The raven ruffled his black feathered wings, and shook its head before saying : " I am sorry All - Mother the child has taken a turn for the worse. I fear she will die. " Frigga dropped her eyes to the floor, and waved Hugin away, she wanted to hear no more.
In her sadness Frigga allowed images of the little girl to run through her mind. She was a wonderful child, so innocent and playful. She was always happy, and brought joy to all those around her. She shared what little she had with others, and never said a cross word to anyone. The only tears this young child ever shed were tears of joy. Frigga had to hold back her own tears as these images ran through her mind. This child must not die, she thought, and summoned the Goddess Eir.
Eir bowed before All - Mother as she entered her chamber. " Why have you summoned me Mother Frigga ", asked Eir with a curious tone in her voice. Frigga rose from her High - Seat and addressed the great physician. " I need you to go to Midgard. There is a little girl there named Hilda Sigurdsdottir who is gravely ill. I wish you to cure the child, for she is too precious a soul to lose. " Eir looked at her with surprise, and stuttered a little as she replied : " Great Mother Frigga, not even I, the best of all physicians, can change what the Norns have decreed. Surely you know this to be true ! " " Is there nothing that can be done ! " asked Frigga. Eir shook her head as she replied, " I am sorry All - Mother, her destiny has been written, and cannot be altered. Frigga said no more. With a wave of her hand she gestured for Eir to leave. Eir bowed again as she left, and though she knew certain things could not be changed, felt bad just the same.
Frigga decided to visit the little girl herself, an unprecedented move for the All- Mother. She silently made her way into the little girls room, and disappeared into the shadows of a corner, to remain unseen. The little girl Hilda was quiet, but suffering so, which distressed Frigga even further. Hilda's mother sat by her bed holding her hands and weeping gently, while her father was standing by the bed side asking the All - Father for his help. Frigga wanted desperately to end the agony of the little child that she had grown so fond of , but felt totally helpless. " You cannot change what the Norns have decreed. " ran through her head over and over again. Suddenly, Frigga felt a presence in the room that had not been there before ! She turned and looked into another dark corner of the room, and saw a shadowy figure. A pale head nodded to her , and in a voice that hissed like a snake it said, " Hello Frigga ! What are you doing here my dear. " Startled, Frigga answered slowly, " I am here to see this child. What are you doing here Hel ?" Hel smiled, a dead smile, and answered, " In a little while I will collect her soul. " Hel pointed a bony finger at the little girl as she spoke. Holding back her anger as best she could, Frigga said : " This child will not die, she is not yours to take ! " Hel replied with no emotion, " The Norns say differently All - Mother. The child is mine ! "
Just then the little girl began to tremble as she breathed her last breath. The mother started wailing, a terrible sound that was heard throughout the village. The father just sank down to his knees and cried quietly. Frigga could say or do nothing in her grief. Then unseen and unheard by the parents, the child's soul rose up, and looked back and forth at the two Goddesses that she could not see before. Hel put out her hand to the child, and motioned for her to follow. Hilda was frightened and recoiled at the sight of the skeletal hand. Hel then tried to grab Hilda's hand, but she curled up into a ball shivering from Hel's cold touch. Hel then went foward to grab the child again but Frigga stood between the two and blocked her path. With eyes that no longer showed compassion, Frigga said angrily, " I might not be able to stop what the Norns have weaved, but I can give this child a better afterlife than you Mistress of Niflheim ! " Startled, Hel stepped back a step, and in a bewildered tone replied : " But......but, Odin has said that all who die of sickness and old age are mine to keep. " With anger in her eyes, and a coarse voice, Frigga shot back : " From this day foward all the innocent children who die, for any reason, shall live with me in Fensalir, and shall be happy and carefree for eternity ! " Hel, looked Frigga in the eyes and shouted : " All - Father shall hear of this ! " To this Frigga smiled and said in a calm voice : " Yes, he will hear of this. " Hel then disappeared back into the shadows leaving Frigga and little Hilda alone. Hilda then looked up at Frigga, and in a small voice asked, " Who are you ? " Frigga smiled, a mother's smile, and said, " I am All - Mother Frigga, take my hand child, and lets go home.
Glenn Bergen - Copyright, 2011.
In her sadness Frigga allowed images of the little girl to run through her mind. She was a wonderful child, so innocent and playful. She was always happy, and brought joy to all those around her. She shared what little she had with others, and never said a cross word to anyone. The only tears this young child ever shed were tears of joy. Frigga had to hold back her own tears as these images ran through her mind. This child must not die, she thought, and summoned the Goddess Eir.
Eir bowed before All - Mother as she entered her chamber. " Why have you summoned me Mother Frigga ", asked Eir with a curious tone in her voice. Frigga rose from her High - Seat and addressed the great physician. " I need you to go to Midgard. There is a little girl there named Hilda Sigurdsdottir who is gravely ill. I wish you to cure the child, for she is too precious a soul to lose. " Eir looked at her with surprise, and stuttered a little as she replied : " Great Mother Frigga, not even I, the best of all physicians, can change what the Norns have decreed. Surely you know this to be true ! " " Is there nothing that can be done ! " asked Frigga. Eir shook her head as she replied, " I am sorry All - Mother, her destiny has been written, and cannot be altered. Frigga said no more. With a wave of her hand she gestured for Eir to leave. Eir bowed again as she left, and though she knew certain things could not be changed, felt bad just the same.
Frigga decided to visit the little girl herself, an unprecedented move for the All- Mother. She silently made her way into the little girls room, and disappeared into the shadows of a corner, to remain unseen. The little girl Hilda was quiet, but suffering so, which distressed Frigga even further. Hilda's mother sat by her bed holding her hands and weeping gently, while her father was standing by the bed side asking the All - Father for his help. Frigga wanted desperately to end the agony of the little child that she had grown so fond of , but felt totally helpless. " You cannot change what the Norns have decreed. " ran through her head over and over again. Suddenly, Frigga felt a presence in the room that had not been there before ! She turned and looked into another dark corner of the room, and saw a shadowy figure. A pale head nodded to her , and in a voice that hissed like a snake it said, " Hello Frigga ! What are you doing here my dear. " Startled, Frigga answered slowly, " I am here to see this child. What are you doing here Hel ?" Hel smiled, a dead smile, and answered, " In a little while I will collect her soul. " Hel pointed a bony finger at the little girl as she spoke. Holding back her anger as best she could, Frigga said : " This child will not die, she is not yours to take ! " Hel replied with no emotion, " The Norns say differently All - Mother. The child is mine ! "
Just then the little girl began to tremble as she breathed her last breath. The mother started wailing, a terrible sound that was heard throughout the village. The father just sank down to his knees and cried quietly. Frigga could say or do nothing in her grief. Then unseen and unheard by the parents, the child's soul rose up, and looked back and forth at the two Goddesses that she could not see before. Hel put out her hand to the child, and motioned for her to follow. Hilda was frightened and recoiled at the sight of the skeletal hand. Hel then tried to grab Hilda's hand, but she curled up into a ball shivering from Hel's cold touch. Hel then went foward to grab the child again but Frigga stood between the two and blocked her path. With eyes that no longer showed compassion, Frigga said angrily, " I might not be able to stop what the Norns have weaved, but I can give this child a better afterlife than you Mistress of Niflheim ! " Startled, Hel stepped back a step, and in a bewildered tone replied : " But......but, Odin has said that all who die of sickness and old age are mine to keep. " With anger in her eyes, and a coarse voice, Frigga shot back : " From this day foward all the innocent children who die, for any reason, shall live with me in Fensalir, and shall be happy and carefree for eternity ! " Hel, looked Frigga in the eyes and shouted : " All - Father shall hear of this ! " To this Frigga smiled and said in a calm voice : " Yes, he will hear of this. " Hel then disappeared back into the shadows leaving Frigga and little Hilda alone. Hilda then looked up at Frigga, and in a small voice asked, " Who are you ? " Frigga smiled, a mother's smile, and said, " I am All - Mother Frigga, take my hand child, and lets go home.
Glenn Bergen - Copyright, 2011.
Brotherly Love
The brothers were feeling rather like having an adventure this day, so they decided to hike over to the land of the Dwarves. Well, it should be said that the older brother decided on this, the younger boy just liked to tag along. As they walked along the path to the rock caverns that lead down to the domain of the Dwarves, the older brother began to tease the younger one. " What a pretty little boy you are", he said with a sly grin, "pretty like a little girl ! " " I am not ! " said the little one angrily. The eldest continued : " Your hair is too light for a boy, and your face shines like the sun itself little brother. " " Mother says you are only half a brother to me ! " , the younger boy said completely ignoring the latest insult. The eldest shot back : " Half - brother you twit ! " Pouting and holding back tears the little boy bellowed, " You are just angry because you have fire hair. " " Fire hair ? " the eldest questioned. The little one giggled and replied, " Yes it is so red it looks like a camp fire ! " The younger boy broke into laughter and started to run away as he made his bold insult, but his older brother could easily take one step to every two of the younger boys steps, so he quickly caught up to him. He playfully wrestled his younger sibling to the ground, and made him say he was sorry for insulting him.
Soon all was forgiven, and forgotten, and they continued on with their journey. Suddenly the younger boy saw the glint of the sun off of something shiny in the road, near a bridge. He ran over and picked up the heavy object off of the ground. " What is this half - brother ? " he asked. " Let me see that little one. " the older brother said with a tone of curiousity in his voice. The older brother took the object, and was amazed at what he saw. In his hands he held a beautiful, ornately engraved, shining gold warriors arm - band. The youngest asked impatiently : " What is it ! What is it ! " " It is the golden arm - band of a warrior, and a strange thing to be left lying around." the eldest replied. " I found it, and I want it back ! " exclaimed the little boy. " You are too young for a warrior' s prize, baby face." the eldest said with a more serious face. " It 's mine and I want it back ! " cried the little boy even louder.
Then from under the bridge came a grumbling sound, as though someone, or something, had just awakened. A voice then echoed as though it was far away, " It is mine ! I killed the warrior who was wearing it, " said the deep voice, " and that makes it mine ! " From under the bridge slowly emerged a large head followed by a much smaller body. Startled the boys looked at each other, then back at the creature. They had heard of Trolls but had never seen one in person. The Troll said proudly : " The warrior would not pay my toll to cross my bridge, and then he had the audacity to challenge me as well ! " He continued, laughing slightly, " He will cross no more bridges forever, that much I can tell you right now ! " He gave out a hoarse bellowing laughter, then glared at the red - haired boy who was holding his fairly won battle prize. The Troll gritted his teeth as he grunted, " Give me back what is rightfully mine ! " The elder boy smiled and replied : " Why should we ? We found it ! " The younger boy looked at his older sibling with wide eyes, and quietly said : " I think it would be best if we just give it to him ! " " No ! " shouted the older brother angrily, " I will not ! " "Then I will take it from you, and make a meal out of both of you as well ! " screamed the drooling Troll.
Fearing not the tiny boy, the Troll ran after the older red - haired boy. With his ungainly gait it was actually more of a waddling motion, that if not for the gravity of the situation would have been quite funny to observe. The older boy braced himself for the attack, his eyes glowing red. As the Troll was about to reach out for the insolent child he suddenly felt something catch his legs, and began to stumble. As he fell he saw that the younger boy, who he had lost track of, had thrown himself at his legs upsetting his balance. The Troll fell with a great thud. The elder boy quickly picked up a large rock before the Troll could recover, and with all his might, hit the Troll on the head. There was a loud cracking sound, a groan, and then silence as the Troll lay there completely still.
The younger boy was shaking and crying as he lay upon the ground. The older brother walked over to him and helped him to his feet, brushed him off, then quietly said : " Warriors do not cry. " He looked into his younger brother's eyes as he continued : " You are kind of a brave little squirt aren ' t you ! " " Lets forget our journey and go home now, we have had enough excitement for one day. " Looking at the golden arm - ring the eldest said : " By the way, you can keep the warriors ring for your bravery, my half - brother, Balder. Balder replied with a smile, " I was just kidding before. I think of you as my whole - brother, Thor ! "
Balder and Thor, the mighty sons of Odin, told and re - told the tale of their encounter with the Troll all the way back to Asgard. Each time the journey became longer, the gold - ring heavier, and the Troll larger and meaner. The two "whole - brothers" bonded on that day, and would fight side by side, in battle after battle, against Trolls, Dwarfs, Jotuns, and monsters....... some real and some imagined !
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
Soon all was forgiven, and forgotten, and they continued on with their journey. Suddenly the younger boy saw the glint of the sun off of something shiny in the road, near a bridge. He ran over and picked up the heavy object off of the ground. " What is this half - brother ? " he asked. " Let me see that little one. " the older brother said with a tone of curiousity in his voice. The older brother took the object, and was amazed at what he saw. In his hands he held a beautiful, ornately engraved, shining gold warriors arm - band. The youngest asked impatiently : " What is it ! What is it ! " " It is the golden arm - band of a warrior, and a strange thing to be left lying around." the eldest replied. " I found it, and I want it back ! " exclaimed the little boy. " You are too young for a warrior' s prize, baby face." the eldest said with a more serious face. " It 's mine and I want it back ! " cried the little boy even louder.
Then from under the bridge came a grumbling sound, as though someone, or something, had just awakened. A voice then echoed as though it was far away, " It is mine ! I killed the warrior who was wearing it, " said the deep voice, " and that makes it mine ! " From under the bridge slowly emerged a large head followed by a much smaller body. Startled the boys looked at each other, then back at the creature. They had heard of Trolls but had never seen one in person. The Troll said proudly : " The warrior would not pay my toll to cross my bridge, and then he had the audacity to challenge me as well ! " He continued, laughing slightly, " He will cross no more bridges forever, that much I can tell you right now ! " He gave out a hoarse bellowing laughter, then glared at the red - haired boy who was holding his fairly won battle prize. The Troll gritted his teeth as he grunted, " Give me back what is rightfully mine ! " The elder boy smiled and replied : " Why should we ? We found it ! " The younger boy looked at his older sibling with wide eyes, and quietly said : " I think it would be best if we just give it to him ! " " No ! " shouted the older brother angrily, " I will not ! " "Then I will take it from you, and make a meal out of both of you as well ! " screamed the drooling Troll.
Fearing not the tiny boy, the Troll ran after the older red - haired boy. With his ungainly gait it was actually more of a waddling motion, that if not for the gravity of the situation would have been quite funny to observe. The older boy braced himself for the attack, his eyes glowing red. As the Troll was about to reach out for the insolent child he suddenly felt something catch his legs, and began to stumble. As he fell he saw that the younger boy, who he had lost track of, had thrown himself at his legs upsetting his balance. The Troll fell with a great thud. The elder boy quickly picked up a large rock before the Troll could recover, and with all his might, hit the Troll on the head. There was a loud cracking sound, a groan, and then silence as the Troll lay there completely still.
The younger boy was shaking and crying as he lay upon the ground. The older brother walked over to him and helped him to his feet, brushed him off, then quietly said : " Warriors do not cry. " He looked into his younger brother's eyes as he continued : " You are kind of a brave little squirt aren ' t you ! " " Lets forget our journey and go home now, we have had enough excitement for one day. " Looking at the golden arm - ring the eldest said : " By the way, you can keep the warriors ring for your bravery, my half - brother, Balder. Balder replied with a smile, " I was just kidding before. I think of you as my whole - brother, Thor ! "
Balder and Thor, the mighty sons of Odin, told and re - told the tale of their encounter with the Troll all the way back to Asgard. Each time the journey became longer, the gold - ring heavier, and the Troll larger and meaner. The two "whole - brothers" bonded on that day, and would fight side by side, in battle after battle, against Trolls, Dwarfs, Jotuns, and monsters....... some real and some imagined !
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
The Weary Traveler
The weary cloaked traveler leaned into the wind, as he was pelted by painful freezing rain and sleet. His journey had been long, and the road leading him to this point had been treacherous. As he rounded a bend in the road he spotted a small house that was badly in need of repairs, but a shelter none - the - less. The wanderer thought to himself : " Though it be little better to live in a house you hold as your own with just two goats, thin thatch for your roof, you are better off than begging. " He quickly walked off the road and down the short path that lead to the front door. Smoke was billowing out of the chimney, a promise of warmth. As the wind began to howl he knocked upon the door.
Inside, Thora and Eyvind were huddled around the fire with their child, Eirik, who was watching the flickering flames dance among the glowing logs with a child's innocence and curiosity. They all jumped when the dull thud of knocking was heard upon their door. Thora and Eyvind looked at each other, and then back at the latched door. Who would come to our humble house at this time of the night they both thought at the same time. Would it be friend or foe ! With immense trepidation, Eyvind slowly rose from his place by the fire, grabbed his seax from off of the table, and went to the door. Eyvind held the weapon hidden behind his back as he slowly opened the creaking door. In the doorway, and partially hidden in shadows, stood a large bearded man in a drenched hooded cloak. The stranger pulled back his hood, and his care - worn face smiled, a tired smile, as he politely asked the owner for hospitality to be given to a weary traveler. Eyvind studied the man's face for a moment. The long grey beard, the patched eye, and the wrinkled skin, were somehow offset by his look of dignity and wisdom. Eyvind motioned for the stranger to come in, and both parents introduced themselves, as Eirik hid behind his father's legs.
Thora took his wet cloak and hung it by the fire to dry, while Eyvind offered him a seat on his bench closest to the fire. Thora placed a small pot over the fire and re - heated the food that was left over from their dinner that evening. They would have a sparse breakfast tommorrow morning ! Eyvind placed a cup on the table and filled it with water. With a downward glance, Eyvind said, " I am sorry sir, I have nothing better to give you. " The stranger waited for Eyvind's eyes to rise to meet his, and then replied, " This will be fine. " The wanderer looked at the mans face, and saw fearful eyes. Then the stranger asked Eyvind why his conditions were so poor. With eyes filled with dismay, he replied, " I have let down my family. Most of our crops have failed this year, and we barely have enough to eat. Worse yet, the king's men will soon be here to collect the taxes, and I have nothing to pay them with !" He continued : " I owe the king as much as a silver coin, and I fear that the king' s soldiers will take me away. " The old man looked at these humble people and said in a comforting voice, " As long as you have each other you are as rich as any king. " Thora looked down at the visitor, placed a dish in front of him, and said, : Unfortunately that is not enough to pay the king with ! " As Thora spooned the thin stew onto his dish, the wanderer looked at the little boy, patted him on the head, and said in a bold voice, " Someday you will be a strong warrior little one ! " Little Eirik only replied with a small uncomfortable smile.
After the wanderer had eaten, he was shown a corner, near the fire, where he could bed down for the night. Thora gave him a thread worn blanket, and apologized for its condition. She had nothing better to offer him. The stranger simply smiled at her and nodded. Then the whole family bedded down for the night.
Eyvind and Thora were awakened the next morning by a loud pounding at their door. Orders were shouted to open the door at once ! The King's men had arrived for their tax money ! Eyvind rose slowly and looked at the seax, but he knew it would not protect him from these unmerciful soldiers, and would put his family at risk as well. With his head slung low he slowly walked to the door to face his destiny. Thora, hoping for help, looked over to where the stranger had been sleeping, but he was gone. The tattered blanket she had given him was neatly folded in the corner. As she looked closer something on top of the blanket caught her eye. She walked over, and glanced down to see what the objects were. There, gleaming in the rays of the early morning sun were a silver coin, and a gold coin. Her hand began to tremble as she reached out and picked up the silver coin.
Eyvind could not even look the soldiers in the eyes as they demanded the king' s tax money. When he was asked if he had the money he just shook his head slowly. Just as the soldier was about to grab Eyvind, Thora placed the silver coin in his hand. The startled soldier looked at the coin, then at Thora and Eyvind, scratched his head, and turned around without uttering a word. Shocked, Eyvind just stood there, and watched as he disappeared down the road. After regaining his composure Eyvind asked Thora where she had gotten the coin. She simply pointed to the blanket, and the remaining gold coin.
Epilogue :
Eirik grew up and became a strong man, and a leader of armies. He fought in many battles, and finally defeated, and deposed, the evil king who had ruled for so long. Eirik became king himself, and ruled for many years with a gentle hand, and a kind heart. He never forgot the lesson of kindness that the weary traveler had taught him all those years before. He never asked his people for more than they could give, and always helped those who were less fortunate.
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011
Inside, Thora and Eyvind were huddled around the fire with their child, Eirik, who was watching the flickering flames dance among the glowing logs with a child's innocence and curiosity. They all jumped when the dull thud of knocking was heard upon their door. Thora and Eyvind looked at each other, and then back at the latched door. Who would come to our humble house at this time of the night they both thought at the same time. Would it be friend or foe ! With immense trepidation, Eyvind slowly rose from his place by the fire, grabbed his seax from off of the table, and went to the door. Eyvind held the weapon hidden behind his back as he slowly opened the creaking door. In the doorway, and partially hidden in shadows, stood a large bearded man in a drenched hooded cloak. The stranger pulled back his hood, and his care - worn face smiled, a tired smile, as he politely asked the owner for hospitality to be given to a weary traveler. Eyvind studied the man's face for a moment. The long grey beard, the patched eye, and the wrinkled skin, were somehow offset by his look of dignity and wisdom. Eyvind motioned for the stranger to come in, and both parents introduced themselves, as Eirik hid behind his father's legs.
Thora took his wet cloak and hung it by the fire to dry, while Eyvind offered him a seat on his bench closest to the fire. Thora placed a small pot over the fire and re - heated the food that was left over from their dinner that evening. They would have a sparse breakfast tommorrow morning ! Eyvind placed a cup on the table and filled it with water. With a downward glance, Eyvind said, " I am sorry sir, I have nothing better to give you. " The stranger waited for Eyvind's eyes to rise to meet his, and then replied, " This will be fine. " The wanderer looked at the mans face, and saw fearful eyes. Then the stranger asked Eyvind why his conditions were so poor. With eyes filled with dismay, he replied, " I have let down my family. Most of our crops have failed this year, and we barely have enough to eat. Worse yet, the king's men will soon be here to collect the taxes, and I have nothing to pay them with !" He continued : " I owe the king as much as a silver coin, and I fear that the king' s soldiers will take me away. " The old man looked at these humble people and said in a comforting voice, " As long as you have each other you are as rich as any king. " Thora looked down at the visitor, placed a dish in front of him, and said, : Unfortunately that is not enough to pay the king with ! " As Thora spooned the thin stew onto his dish, the wanderer looked at the little boy, patted him on the head, and said in a bold voice, " Someday you will be a strong warrior little one ! " Little Eirik only replied with a small uncomfortable smile.
After the wanderer had eaten, he was shown a corner, near the fire, where he could bed down for the night. Thora gave him a thread worn blanket, and apologized for its condition. She had nothing better to offer him. The stranger simply smiled at her and nodded. Then the whole family bedded down for the night.
Eyvind and Thora were awakened the next morning by a loud pounding at their door. Orders were shouted to open the door at once ! The King's men had arrived for their tax money ! Eyvind rose slowly and looked at the seax, but he knew it would not protect him from these unmerciful soldiers, and would put his family at risk as well. With his head slung low he slowly walked to the door to face his destiny. Thora, hoping for help, looked over to where the stranger had been sleeping, but he was gone. The tattered blanket she had given him was neatly folded in the corner. As she looked closer something on top of the blanket caught her eye. She walked over, and glanced down to see what the objects were. There, gleaming in the rays of the early morning sun were a silver coin, and a gold coin. Her hand began to tremble as she reached out and picked up the silver coin.
Eyvind could not even look the soldiers in the eyes as they demanded the king' s tax money. When he was asked if he had the money he just shook his head slowly. Just as the soldier was about to grab Eyvind, Thora placed the silver coin in his hand. The startled soldier looked at the coin, then at Thora and Eyvind, scratched his head, and turned around without uttering a word. Shocked, Eyvind just stood there, and watched as he disappeared down the road. After regaining his composure Eyvind asked Thora where she had gotten the coin. She simply pointed to the blanket, and the remaining gold coin.
Epilogue :
Eirik grew up and became a strong man, and a leader of armies. He fought in many battles, and finally defeated, and deposed, the evil king who had ruled for so long. Eirik became king himself, and ruled for many years with a gentle hand, and a kind heart. He never forgot the lesson of kindness that the weary traveler had taught him all those years before. He never asked his people for more than they could give, and always helped those who were less fortunate.
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011
Freyja' s Journey
It was a bright and cloudless day in Asgard. Sunna shone her beautiful warm face upon the splendid world of the Gods and Goddesses. Heimdall, stoic and alert at his post, marvelled at how Sunna's radiant light made the rainbow bridge glow like fire. In the distance, Magni and Modi, play - fought with wooden swords, while Thrud watched shaded by a tree. Sif watched everything closely with the cautious eyes of a mother. When Magni won the sword - play, and he always won, Sif had to calm Modi down . Sif was not too concerned because Modi always seemed to be angry about something, it was just his nature. Balder and Nanna were oblivious to these events. They were laying in a field of flowers playing chess on a beautiful gold board, while their newborn child, Forseti, was giggling at a butterfly that was flying overhead. Everyone in Asgard was enjoying the splendor of the day, except one. From the lavish hall called Sessrumnir, Heimdall heard the weeping of a distraught Goddess. Heimdall slowly shook his head, and then continued his vigilance. He had heard this many times before, but he had no time to reflect on sorrow.
Freyja sat in her beautiful hall, her head bowed in anguish. Tears of red - gold gently trickled down her face and rolled off onto the table, adding to the fortune that was her sorrow. Freyr sat down next to her, and lifting her chin asked, " What vexes you so my sister ? Why does one so beautiful as you cry this way ?" Freyja, choking back the tears, answered, " My husband has gone off again on another of his journeys, and our children miss him so. Hnoss and little Gersemi are so sad without their father, and I too miss him so very much ! " Freyr responded in a harsh whisper, " Do not let father hear you say such things. He is already not fond of Od. Besides , you know that everywhere Od travels he spreads love and joy. It is his passion, and his purpose. " Freyja shot back angrily, " Yes, but we need him too ! " Suddenly she looked up from the table, and with a look of determination that wiped the tears from her eyes said, " I will sit here waiting no longer. I will go out and find my husband and bring him home." Freyr shook his head but said nothing. He knew that when his sister had made up her mind nothing, or no one, was going to change it.
Njord, who was resting in the flower garden, saw his daughter stride towards him with Hnoss and Gersemi in tow. When she reached his side, Freyja asked, " Father will you look after my daughters while I go and search for my husband ? " Njord answered with a bellowing laugh that could stop the wind itself : " I came to visit you to see my grandaughters ! Of course I will ! I would love to spend time with my two little magical Valkyries. They are such little treasures ! " Hearing this Hnoss and Gersemi ran to their grandfather and jumped up onto his lap. Freyja put her hand on her father's shoulder and thanked him. Njord grabbed her hand, looked Freyja in the eyes and said, " Be careful my daughter, and may luck be with you. " Freyja gave him a little frown and replied, " I have no need for luck father, I have magic. " As Freyja left she could hear her father's laughter mixed with the high pitched giggling of her daughters. For the first time in a while a faint smile crossed her face. It did not remain long though, and quickly turned back into a look of focused determination.
Freyja decided to start her search in the lands of Midgard. Od often spoke of his love of moving amongst the children of Odin, and how much he enjoyed the company of these simple people. She knew, of course, that she would have to travel in disguise in this realm, so she summoned her magic and changed her cats into beautiful stallions to pull her golden cart across the winding dirt roads of Midgard. She was, however, to vain to change her appearance. Odin may hide in disguises in the land of humans, but Freyja wanted all to see and appreciate her beauty.
Along the way she stopped at every farm to ask if the farmers had seen her husband, who she described in great detail. All shook their heads, and said that no one by that description had passed this way. The farmer' s wives had to restrain their husbands from making fools of themselves, which gave Freyja much amusement. She then thanked them and went on her way. She had little time for conversation. She had a husband to find !
She came next to a small town, and stopped at the market square. A crowd gathered around her as she stepped down from her cart. They were amazed by this beautiful woman, dressed in the finest clothing they had ever seen. They whispered to each other that surely she must be a queen, or at the very least a princess. They brought her to a small eatery, and treated her according to her status. They gave her the best food and drink they had, and everyone spoke to her with respect and reverence. They dressed her as, "My lady". They took turns asking her questions, and were delighted by her answers. Freyja simply adored the attention, and was amazed at their generous hospitality, and quickly saw why it was that Od liked these Midgardians so much. She asked them why the market seemed so empty of fresh fruits and vegetables. The tavern owner explained that the rains had not come this year, as in years past, and the early harvest had not been very productive. He went on to say that if they did not receive rain soon the late harvest could be a total loss. Freyja told them how sorry she was to hear of their misfortune, and that she hoped the rains would come to make their fall harvest more abundant. Then she asked if anyone had seen her husband, who she again described in great detail. Every man and woman in the square said that they had not seen him. The tavern owner even remarked that he would have remembered a man who was that splendid. With a look of sadness she said her goodbyes, and thanked them for their kindness. As she reached her cart, every man near her pushed and shoved each other to be the one to help her up onto the padded seat of her cart. Two men won the honor, and received cold stares from their wives, as they gently helped Freyja into her seat. All bid her farewell and good luck. As she rode away she could hear them cheering her, wishing her well, and asking her to come back soon.
She was touched by their heartfelt treatment of her, and true concern for her welfare. She felt sorry for the misfortune they were having with their crops, and decided she would help her new friends. Within her mind she reached out to her brother Freyr, and asked him if there was not something he could do to help these kind - hearted people. In Asgard, Freyr nodded his head, and slowly Sunna disappeared from the sky. Dark clouds covered her once shining face throughout the valley where the town lay. As Freyja reached a hill overlooking the town, she stopped her cart, and looked back over her shoulder. A gentle rain had started to fall over the valley below, onto the farms, and the parched ground their crops were planted in. The tavern owner had noticed that her cart had stopped on the hill, and as his eyes met Freyja's he realized that she was not a queen at all, but someone very special. He had tears in his eyes as he waved to her. With a smile on her face she turned around and bid her stallions to take her to the next village along the way.
And so she went from farm to farm, village to village, looking for her beloved husband. Everyone she spoke to had the same answer to her often repeated question. Od had not been this way. Finally after a long and exhaustive search she decided she needed to look elsewhere. So she turned her horses back into cats, and headed into the mountains to find the cave that leads to the dark lands where the Dwarves reside. She would continue her search there.
Deeper and deeper into the earth the rock trail lead. Though she was miles underground Freyja could see surprisingly well in this dark, damp, and cold world. The walls of rock along the road gave off a luminescence that was not as bright as daylight, but that dull light you see at dusk and dawn. Up ahead Freyja saw three rock dwarves waddling along the side of the path. She decided to stop and ask them if they had seen her husband. Dolgthvari, Haur, and Hugstari, were on their way to see their friends, who lived in the granite fields, when they heard a cart coming up from behind them on the road. As they turned to see who it was, they were surprised to see a Goddess steering two cats, on a golden cart ! They each looked at each other, and frowned as she stopped. Freyja asked them if they had seen her husband, who she described once again in great detail. Haur shook his head no, and Dolgthvari just shrugged his shoulders. Hugstari, however, told her in a gravely voice, " The Gods and Goddesses seldom come to visit us in our realm of rock and stone. You should look elsewhere, fair one, for your missing spouse. " Haur added, with a scowl upon his face, " You are not welcome here Goddess of the Vanir race ! " With a sarcastic laugh they turned their backs on her, and went back on their way. Freyja did not even look at these vile creatures as she passed them, she had no interest in these pale, rude little rock dwellers.
She traveled for another day, with no luck, before the trail opened up into a huge underground world. This was the land of the Dark Dwarfs. She slowly passed by earthen huts, each lit with a torch, and each with smoke billowing up from their chimneys. The roof of this land was covered with long roots which grew down like upside down branches on a tree. But these were ugly twisted trees, and had no greenery attached. To Freyja they looked like giant misshapened hands reaching out to grab her. Water dripped from this strange ceiling like rain from dark clouds. She stopped at several dwellings along the way, but was told at each that they had not seen her husband. At least they were somewhat kinder than the Rock Dwarfs had been to her, she thought as she moved to the next hut. Then she saw the blacksmith shop of Eitri and Brokk, and stopped her cart. She dismounted her carriage and went inside to see the talented smiths, and ask them if they had seen her husband. Freyja greeted them warmly, and asked how they were this day. Brokk responded in a hoarse voice, " I have made the Gods a boar with bristles of gold, the ring called Draupnir, and the hammer Mjolinir. What do the Gods of Asgard want of me now ?" Freyja, offended by his tone, replied, " We of Asgard are very appreciative of the wonderful gifts you have made for us. I will ask of you only one question. Has my husband Od been this way by chance ?" Eitri looked at Brokk with an evil smile, then turned back to Freyja, and said, " Why yes, and he is still here !" He is looking at our goods in our back storeroom. If you will be so kind as to follow me I will take you to him. " Freyja followed with great expectation and a broad smile on her face. When they reached the back of the shop, Eitri opened a large door, then stopped as Brokk said, " After you great Goddess. " As soon as Freyja had stepped inside Eitri slammed the door shut, and bolted it ! The two Dwarfs danced a little dance to celebrate their good fortune. They had captured the most beautiful Goddess in all of Asgard ! The rest of the day Eitri and Brokk argued as to what they should do with her. Should they ransom her back to the Aesir, or sell her to the highest bidding Jotun ?
The next day they went back to the storeroom to ask Freyja how much she thought she was worth to the Gods and the Jotuns. Freyja, with a pretty little smile upon her face, reached down and picked up three pieces of coal from a bin, and said in a calm voice, " Not as much as these diamonds !" Before she showed them to the Dwarfs she ran her hand over the lumps of coal and they transformed into the largest diamonds in all the nine worlds. Impatient, the Dwarfs shouted, " Let us see, let us see !" Freyja then opened up her hand and displayed the sparkling gems to them. " Will these buy my freedom ?", asked Freyja. Eitri and Brokk were amazed at the size and beauty of these huge diamonds. Even in their low lit world they shone like a beacon in the dark. Brokk finally spoke and said, " We will have the diamonds and you as well my dear ! " To answer this, Freyja simply smirked and ran her hand back over the diamonds, turning them back into worthless pieces of coal. She then said, " My freedom for the diamonds. That is my offer ! " Eitri looked at Brokk and said, " How do we know that you will not make them disappear after we release you ?" Freyja smiled pleasantly and replied, " You have my word that they will remain in your hands even after I am free. " She then passed her hand over the coal again turning them back into diamonds to give the brothers one last look at them.
The Dwarfs discussed it for a few minutes together, and then agreed to the bargain. They escorted her safely back to her cart, and even helped her up into her seat. After she was safely behind the reins of her cats she handed over the diamonds to Brokk. As soon as the diamonds were securely in his hands he yelled to Eitri to grab her. Freyja, however, had anticipated treachery and was too fast for them. The cats bolted and the cart was safely on its way, and out of the Dwarf's reach within seconds. The Dwarfs cursed their luck and were disappointed that they could not have both prizes. They were however, ecstatic that they now possessed these very valuable diamonds.
Freyja, once at a safe distance, looked back and smiled a sly little smile back at the celebrating Dwarfs.
That night Brokk and Eitri decided to show off their prize gems to the whole village. Everyone gathered round as Brokk and Eitri took turns telling the story of how they captured the Great Goddess Freyja, and then lied that they had forced the Great Gods of Asgard to pay a huge ransom in diamonds to gain her release. Then Eitri pulled the huge diamonds out of his pocket and held them up high so the entire crowd could see their triumph. The onlookers looked hard at Eitri's hand, and then started laughing one by one at what they saw. Eitri pulled the diamonds back down, and was shocked to see only three lumps of coal. Brokk was so angry he took off his hat and started to beat Eitri with it. This made the crowd laugh even louder ! Freyja had paid the Dwarfs a lie for a lie !
As Freyja rode out of the cave entrance, and back into the world of sunshine, she decided it was best for her to give up her search for her beloved husband, and just go home. She had failed in her journey, and was tired, and very disappointed. With a heavy heart, and tear - filled eyes, she headed back home through the dirt roads of Midgard, and across the rainbow bridge to the shining realm of Asgard.
As she stood outside the massive doors of her great hall Sessrumnir, she felt only loneliness and sadness. As she slowly opened the heavy golden doors, she saw to her amazement, Od sitting on the golden benches, with Hnoss on one knee, and Gersemi on the other. Od turned to her with a frown and shouted, " Where have you been my wife ? I have been waiting for you for days !" Freyja's sorrow turned to anger, and then to fury ! She clenched her fists and strode foward towards him. Then she saw Od bouncing Hnoss and Gersemi up and down on his knees, and heard them giggling joyfully. The anger drained away just as quickly as it had appeared. Her husband had come home at last, and her family was re - united. Freyja walked over to Od, shook her finger at him, then gave him a little kiss and a hug. All was well at last. At least for the time being.
As Heimdall watched over the massive rainbow bridge he heard the giggling of children, and laughter of adults coming from the direction of Sessrumnir. He smiled as he watched over the gate to Asgard. There would be no shedding of red - gold tears this night.
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
Freyja sat in her beautiful hall, her head bowed in anguish. Tears of red - gold gently trickled down her face and rolled off onto the table, adding to the fortune that was her sorrow. Freyr sat down next to her, and lifting her chin asked, " What vexes you so my sister ? Why does one so beautiful as you cry this way ?" Freyja, choking back the tears, answered, " My husband has gone off again on another of his journeys, and our children miss him so. Hnoss and little Gersemi are so sad without their father, and I too miss him so very much ! " Freyr responded in a harsh whisper, " Do not let father hear you say such things. He is already not fond of Od. Besides , you know that everywhere Od travels he spreads love and joy. It is his passion, and his purpose. " Freyja shot back angrily, " Yes, but we need him too ! " Suddenly she looked up from the table, and with a look of determination that wiped the tears from her eyes said, " I will sit here waiting no longer. I will go out and find my husband and bring him home." Freyr shook his head but said nothing. He knew that when his sister had made up her mind nothing, or no one, was going to change it.
Njord, who was resting in the flower garden, saw his daughter stride towards him with Hnoss and Gersemi in tow. When she reached his side, Freyja asked, " Father will you look after my daughters while I go and search for my husband ? " Njord answered with a bellowing laugh that could stop the wind itself : " I came to visit you to see my grandaughters ! Of course I will ! I would love to spend time with my two little magical Valkyries. They are such little treasures ! " Hearing this Hnoss and Gersemi ran to their grandfather and jumped up onto his lap. Freyja put her hand on her father's shoulder and thanked him. Njord grabbed her hand, looked Freyja in the eyes and said, " Be careful my daughter, and may luck be with you. " Freyja gave him a little frown and replied, " I have no need for luck father, I have magic. " As Freyja left she could hear her father's laughter mixed with the high pitched giggling of her daughters. For the first time in a while a faint smile crossed her face. It did not remain long though, and quickly turned back into a look of focused determination.
Freyja decided to start her search in the lands of Midgard. Od often spoke of his love of moving amongst the children of Odin, and how much he enjoyed the company of these simple people. She knew, of course, that she would have to travel in disguise in this realm, so she summoned her magic and changed her cats into beautiful stallions to pull her golden cart across the winding dirt roads of Midgard. She was, however, to vain to change her appearance. Odin may hide in disguises in the land of humans, but Freyja wanted all to see and appreciate her beauty.
Along the way she stopped at every farm to ask if the farmers had seen her husband, who she described in great detail. All shook their heads, and said that no one by that description had passed this way. The farmer' s wives had to restrain their husbands from making fools of themselves, which gave Freyja much amusement. She then thanked them and went on her way. She had little time for conversation. She had a husband to find !
She came next to a small town, and stopped at the market square. A crowd gathered around her as she stepped down from her cart. They were amazed by this beautiful woman, dressed in the finest clothing they had ever seen. They whispered to each other that surely she must be a queen, or at the very least a princess. They brought her to a small eatery, and treated her according to her status. They gave her the best food and drink they had, and everyone spoke to her with respect and reverence. They dressed her as, "My lady". They took turns asking her questions, and were delighted by her answers. Freyja simply adored the attention, and was amazed at their generous hospitality, and quickly saw why it was that Od liked these Midgardians so much. She asked them why the market seemed so empty of fresh fruits and vegetables. The tavern owner explained that the rains had not come this year, as in years past, and the early harvest had not been very productive. He went on to say that if they did not receive rain soon the late harvest could be a total loss. Freyja told them how sorry she was to hear of their misfortune, and that she hoped the rains would come to make their fall harvest more abundant. Then she asked if anyone had seen her husband, who she again described in great detail. Every man and woman in the square said that they had not seen him. The tavern owner even remarked that he would have remembered a man who was that splendid. With a look of sadness she said her goodbyes, and thanked them for their kindness. As she reached her cart, every man near her pushed and shoved each other to be the one to help her up onto the padded seat of her cart. Two men won the honor, and received cold stares from their wives, as they gently helped Freyja into her seat. All bid her farewell and good luck. As she rode away she could hear them cheering her, wishing her well, and asking her to come back soon.
She was touched by their heartfelt treatment of her, and true concern for her welfare. She felt sorry for the misfortune they were having with their crops, and decided she would help her new friends. Within her mind she reached out to her brother Freyr, and asked him if there was not something he could do to help these kind - hearted people. In Asgard, Freyr nodded his head, and slowly Sunna disappeared from the sky. Dark clouds covered her once shining face throughout the valley where the town lay. As Freyja reached a hill overlooking the town, she stopped her cart, and looked back over her shoulder. A gentle rain had started to fall over the valley below, onto the farms, and the parched ground their crops were planted in. The tavern owner had noticed that her cart had stopped on the hill, and as his eyes met Freyja's he realized that she was not a queen at all, but someone very special. He had tears in his eyes as he waved to her. With a smile on her face she turned around and bid her stallions to take her to the next village along the way.
And so she went from farm to farm, village to village, looking for her beloved husband. Everyone she spoke to had the same answer to her often repeated question. Od had not been this way. Finally after a long and exhaustive search she decided she needed to look elsewhere. So she turned her horses back into cats, and headed into the mountains to find the cave that leads to the dark lands where the Dwarves reside. She would continue her search there.
Deeper and deeper into the earth the rock trail lead. Though she was miles underground Freyja could see surprisingly well in this dark, damp, and cold world. The walls of rock along the road gave off a luminescence that was not as bright as daylight, but that dull light you see at dusk and dawn. Up ahead Freyja saw three rock dwarves waddling along the side of the path. She decided to stop and ask them if they had seen her husband. Dolgthvari, Haur, and Hugstari, were on their way to see their friends, who lived in the granite fields, when they heard a cart coming up from behind them on the road. As they turned to see who it was, they were surprised to see a Goddess steering two cats, on a golden cart ! They each looked at each other, and frowned as she stopped. Freyja asked them if they had seen her husband, who she described once again in great detail. Haur shook his head no, and Dolgthvari just shrugged his shoulders. Hugstari, however, told her in a gravely voice, " The Gods and Goddesses seldom come to visit us in our realm of rock and stone. You should look elsewhere, fair one, for your missing spouse. " Haur added, with a scowl upon his face, " You are not welcome here Goddess of the Vanir race ! " With a sarcastic laugh they turned their backs on her, and went back on their way. Freyja did not even look at these vile creatures as she passed them, she had no interest in these pale, rude little rock dwellers.
She traveled for another day, with no luck, before the trail opened up into a huge underground world. This was the land of the Dark Dwarfs. She slowly passed by earthen huts, each lit with a torch, and each with smoke billowing up from their chimneys. The roof of this land was covered with long roots which grew down like upside down branches on a tree. But these were ugly twisted trees, and had no greenery attached. To Freyja they looked like giant misshapened hands reaching out to grab her. Water dripped from this strange ceiling like rain from dark clouds. She stopped at several dwellings along the way, but was told at each that they had not seen her husband. At least they were somewhat kinder than the Rock Dwarfs had been to her, she thought as she moved to the next hut. Then she saw the blacksmith shop of Eitri and Brokk, and stopped her cart. She dismounted her carriage and went inside to see the talented smiths, and ask them if they had seen her husband. Freyja greeted them warmly, and asked how they were this day. Brokk responded in a hoarse voice, " I have made the Gods a boar with bristles of gold, the ring called Draupnir, and the hammer Mjolinir. What do the Gods of Asgard want of me now ?" Freyja, offended by his tone, replied, " We of Asgard are very appreciative of the wonderful gifts you have made for us. I will ask of you only one question. Has my husband Od been this way by chance ?" Eitri looked at Brokk with an evil smile, then turned back to Freyja, and said, " Why yes, and he is still here !" He is looking at our goods in our back storeroom. If you will be so kind as to follow me I will take you to him. " Freyja followed with great expectation and a broad smile on her face. When they reached the back of the shop, Eitri opened a large door, then stopped as Brokk said, " After you great Goddess. " As soon as Freyja had stepped inside Eitri slammed the door shut, and bolted it ! The two Dwarfs danced a little dance to celebrate their good fortune. They had captured the most beautiful Goddess in all of Asgard ! The rest of the day Eitri and Brokk argued as to what they should do with her. Should they ransom her back to the Aesir, or sell her to the highest bidding Jotun ?
The next day they went back to the storeroom to ask Freyja how much she thought she was worth to the Gods and the Jotuns. Freyja, with a pretty little smile upon her face, reached down and picked up three pieces of coal from a bin, and said in a calm voice, " Not as much as these diamonds !" Before she showed them to the Dwarfs she ran her hand over the lumps of coal and they transformed into the largest diamonds in all the nine worlds. Impatient, the Dwarfs shouted, " Let us see, let us see !" Freyja then opened up her hand and displayed the sparkling gems to them. " Will these buy my freedom ?", asked Freyja. Eitri and Brokk were amazed at the size and beauty of these huge diamonds. Even in their low lit world they shone like a beacon in the dark. Brokk finally spoke and said, " We will have the diamonds and you as well my dear ! " To answer this, Freyja simply smirked and ran her hand back over the diamonds, turning them back into worthless pieces of coal. She then said, " My freedom for the diamonds. That is my offer ! " Eitri looked at Brokk and said, " How do we know that you will not make them disappear after we release you ?" Freyja smiled pleasantly and replied, " You have my word that they will remain in your hands even after I am free. " She then passed her hand over the coal again turning them back into diamonds to give the brothers one last look at them.
The Dwarfs discussed it for a few minutes together, and then agreed to the bargain. They escorted her safely back to her cart, and even helped her up into her seat. After she was safely behind the reins of her cats she handed over the diamonds to Brokk. As soon as the diamonds were securely in his hands he yelled to Eitri to grab her. Freyja, however, had anticipated treachery and was too fast for them. The cats bolted and the cart was safely on its way, and out of the Dwarf's reach within seconds. The Dwarfs cursed their luck and were disappointed that they could not have both prizes. They were however, ecstatic that they now possessed these very valuable diamonds.
Freyja, once at a safe distance, looked back and smiled a sly little smile back at the celebrating Dwarfs.
That night Brokk and Eitri decided to show off their prize gems to the whole village. Everyone gathered round as Brokk and Eitri took turns telling the story of how they captured the Great Goddess Freyja, and then lied that they had forced the Great Gods of Asgard to pay a huge ransom in diamonds to gain her release. Then Eitri pulled the huge diamonds out of his pocket and held them up high so the entire crowd could see their triumph. The onlookers looked hard at Eitri's hand, and then started laughing one by one at what they saw. Eitri pulled the diamonds back down, and was shocked to see only three lumps of coal. Brokk was so angry he took off his hat and started to beat Eitri with it. This made the crowd laugh even louder ! Freyja had paid the Dwarfs a lie for a lie !
As Freyja rode out of the cave entrance, and back into the world of sunshine, she decided it was best for her to give up her search for her beloved husband, and just go home. She had failed in her journey, and was tired, and very disappointed. With a heavy heart, and tear - filled eyes, she headed back home through the dirt roads of Midgard, and across the rainbow bridge to the shining realm of Asgard.
As she stood outside the massive doors of her great hall Sessrumnir, she felt only loneliness and sadness. As she slowly opened the heavy golden doors, she saw to her amazement, Od sitting on the golden benches, with Hnoss on one knee, and Gersemi on the other. Od turned to her with a frown and shouted, " Where have you been my wife ? I have been waiting for you for days !" Freyja's sorrow turned to anger, and then to fury ! She clenched her fists and strode foward towards him. Then she saw Od bouncing Hnoss and Gersemi up and down on his knees, and heard them giggling joyfully. The anger drained away just as quickly as it had appeared. Her husband had come home at last, and her family was re - united. Freyja walked over to Od, shook her finger at him, then gave him a little kiss and a hug. All was well at last. At least for the time being.
As Heimdall watched over the massive rainbow bridge he heard the giggling of children, and laughter of adults coming from the direction of Sessrumnir. He smiled as he watched over the gate to Asgard. There would be no shedding of red - gold tears this night.
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
The Aesir - Vanir War
Part I : The Call To War
The Gods were lying in the beautiful meadows that surrounded Asgard playing games on golden gameboards without a care. The Goddesses were gossiping while they weaved gold and silver threads into beautiful garments and beddings. Their children, who they watched with the careful eyes of a mother, played in the fields running and laughing to and fro. The Gods and Goddesses never knew of war and strife. Behind their great wall, built long ago by a Jotun, they were sure they were safe from any and all harm. That is if an enemy could get past the ever vigilant Heimdall ! Their world was their heaven and they were peaceful and content. Idunn visited the God and Goddesses, giving each of them one of the golden apples that they trusted only with her. With each bite of this fruit the Aesir was granted the promise of eternal youth. Everyone in Asgard was happy and content on this day, as they were on all days. Everyone that is but one, the All - Father.
Odin, from his high - seat in Hlidskjalf, was very concerned ! From this sacred throne he could see out over all the nine worlds, and know what was happening in each. Nothing missed the All - Father' s watchful eyes, and he did not like what he was seeing. Events were changing in the nine worlds that could be very detrimental to the Aesir. The Jotuns had multiplied, and were ever so slowly pushing towards Midgard. The three Jotun - Maidens were great cause for concern as well. They were monstrous to look at, and had recently set down laws for men to follow, and were starting to control the destiny of mankind. Odin also felt threatened by their knowledge of the past, present, and most especially the future.
Odin was most concerned however, by the resurgence of the Old Ones known as the Vanir. These Gods lived in the world known as Vanaheim, and were using their Seidr, ( Magic ), to upset the balance of the universe. Odin thought on this long and hard, weighing all possibilities and options. He consulted seeresses, and even went to see Mimir to seek his advice and counsel. Finally, Odin decided that it was time to take action !
Odin held a council with the other Gods, and they carefully considered the situation that was developing before them. They discussed for long hours the prospects of both war and peace. The debate at times became quite heated with violence being only narrowly avoided. Finally, everyone was in agreement that something had to be done about the Vanir, who had trampled on their honor. And that revenge was required to restore it. The decision was made, they would go to war, an annihilate the intrusive Vanir Gods and destroy Vanaheim. Not one of the Gods, not even mild mannered Bragi, talked of peace that day !
When the Vanir heard of these threats made against them, they sent their envoy, Gullveig, to meet with the Aesir. In the great Asgardian hall, Gullveig warned the Aesir council that any and all credible threats, or encroachment of any kind on Vanaheim, would lead to war. To back her warnings, and to give strength and meaning to her words, she showed them her powerful Seidr. Odin, whose council had already decided on war, was furious by her brash show of defiance. And she had the audacity to do it right there in his sacred hall ! Odin could take no more, he broke his own sacred decree about spilling blood in the ancient holy hall; he picked up his spear Gungnir, and shot it into the Vanir host . Countless spears were cast at Gullveig that day to no avail. In Odin's hall they burned her body three times, but three times she was re - born.
When Njord heard of these atrocities, he called the Vanir into council, and asked for a vote of war against the Aesir. Freyr jumped to his feet, raised his mighty sword that fought by itself, and cried out, " Revenge for our Queen of Seidr, Gullveig. All then rose in unison, lead by Freyja, and shouted for war. It is said that this shout could be heard throughout all of the nine worlds. Njord simply said quietly, " Then war it shall be ! " They put on their coats of mail, bright silver helmets, and belted sharp swords on their sides. All was made ready for an attack on the great citadel that was Asgard. Most rode on white horses to the field of battle, some however, wore feather coats and flew above the horse soldiers. The peace was over, the war about to begin !
End part one.
Part II : The War Of The Gods !
Behind their great wall, with his cavalry, and holding the middle of the battle line, Odin sat upon his mount in overall command. On his right was his son Thor, and Tyr held the line steady on the left. Odin did not know how the Vanir had sneaked by Heimdall and into Asgard, but he suspected Vanir magic. In the fields outside the great wall of Asgard the Vanir looked weak, and unimpressive to Odin. They were far fewer in number than the Aesir, and seemed spread out and disorganized. Some wore no armor at all but seemed to be covered in feathers. Odin had seen enough, he decided to clear the fields outside of the great wall of these unwelcomed trespassers. He decided to take the offensive and attack ! He did however, leave Balder and Hodr in reserve behind the wall to defend Asgard just in case . Odin was the wisest of the Aesir and never took foolish chances if he did not have to, and a reserve seemed like a sound decision. Odin laughed and thought that Balder and Hodr would not be needed anyway, because these Vanir Gods and Goddesses were not known for their pension for war, but for love and fertility. They would never be able to stand before the onslaught of the Aesir War Gods !
The great gates of Asgard were slowly opened, and out poured first Thor's legion, on the right, followed immediately by Tyr's legion on the left. After lining up in perfect lines of battle, they shouted a great war cry and ran at the Vanir at full speed. Then Odin, with Loki riding by his side, streamed through the gap between Thor's troops and Tyr' s troops with his cavalry, and attacked at full gallop. Then one of the Vanir, a woman in full battle dress, who Odin recognized as Njord's daughter Freyja, knelt down and raised her hands to the sky. Odin smiled, there would be no surrendering now ! But the great magical warrior Freyja was not surrendering, she was summoning ! Suddenly, the thickest fogs that had ever hit Asgard rolled in, and enveloped everything on the battlefield. Njord raised his hand and blew up a breeze that pushed the fog all the way past the great wall and into Asgard as well. None of the Aesir could see the hands in front of their faces, let alone the enemy that lay before them ! Freyja rose up and shouted for all to hear : " ATTACK" ! Njord with his son Freyr on his right and Freyja on his left moved foward as one into the fray. The Vanir using their magic were able to see right through the fog, and pick out their foes with ease, while the Aesir could only flail wildly at their perceived enemy in their front. The Vanir warriors, with the feather coats, took to the air and began attacking from above. Odin sensed that they were in a bad way but pressed on. He did however tell Thor, through his thoughts to go back and reinforce Balder and Hodr in Asgard, and act as a last line of protection for the citizens of Asgard. Thor understood his orders and obeyed at once !
The Vanir easily rolled up the Aesir lines that stood before them, and pushed them steadily backwards to the great wall itself. The carnage was horrible ! The clang of sword against sword, and the dull "thud" of swords hitting shields was deafening. The screams of the wounded and dying was almost unbearable ! The Aesir, though valiant, could not fight an enemy that they could not see. Those who could retreated behind the the wall and awaited what they were sure would be the final battle. Then they heard a sound that they thought they would never hear, the walls of the great wall being demolished. Thor alone moved foward, his eyes red with fury, his hammer held high ! Thor no longer cared whether he could see the enemy or not. He went as wild as a berserker, swinging his great hammer back and forth in the gloomy mist. Savagely he laughed when he heard his stone hammer hitting their soft flesh. He laughed even harder when he heard Vanir bones cracking ! When he heard the fluttering of wings overhead, or felt a breeze upon his face, he ducked and swung his hammer in a circular motion until he heard the hammer make contact . He moved foward slowly beating a path back to where the Vanir had breached the great wall. Balder and Hodr moved foward with him, proud of their great prince, and willing to die for great Odin and Asgard ! When the Vanir became backed up against the great wall themselves, Njord signalled for a retreat back to their original positions outside of the wall. Thor would have chased them all the way back to Vanaheim, but Odin, in his wisdom, shouted for Thor to stop ! Thor looked back in the direction of the shouted order with angry eyes, and a heart burning with fury and revenge, but kept going. Odin then said more gently through his thoughts, " Thor........., son, we cannot afford to lose you, come back within the walls of Asgard. " Thor understood his father's tone , and understood the wisdom behind his words. The fury subsided, and Thor stopped and headed back. Though Thor had beaten back the Vanir, and avoided total defeat, Odin considered the battle a loss, because of their great losses, and the wall being severely damaged. Parts of Asgard that were closest to the wall had also been heavily damaged to the Asgardians dismay. The battle had been won by Vanir magic, and Odin realized that the Vanir were a formidable enemy who could no longer be taken lightly.
A stalemate then ensued between the Aesir, protected by a hastily repaired wall, and the Vanir who were encamped outside the great wall. From time to time both sides would send out raiding parties to feel each other out, but all this accomplished was further loss of life. On one of these attacks Balder and Hodr tried to attack under the cover of darkness, but Freyr made the sun shine, and they were discovered. In their ferocious fight back to the walls of Asgard, Hodr was struck across the face with Freyr' s magic sword that fought by itself, and lost his sight forever. Balder carried his blinded brother back behind the wall with tears streaming down his face. Odin, seeing this, realized there had to be another way. No matter what plan was tried, or what magic used, neither side was going to win this horrible war. Across the field of battle, Njord, a wise God in his own right, was having similar thoughts.
End part two.
Part III : The Peace.
Then Odin called all the mighty Gods to give judgement. They took council together, and realized that they had two choices : Accept great losses, or give all the Gods, including the Vanir, their due. Odin could see through his anger, and understood that the Aesir and the Vanir were now few in numbers, and neither could sustain such losses for long. He also worried about the gathering strength of the Jotuns, and did not want to get caught off - guard by them in a weakened state.
He also understood now that an alliance between the Aesir and the Vanir would strengthen both realms, and together they could ward of all enemies. When Odin expressed his views, before the great council, all agreed that they should go and meet with the Vanir leader, Njord, and seek common ground for a lasting peace.
On the other side of the great wall, Njord also saw the futility of continuing this conflict. They had been few in number at the beginning of the war, and now were even further diminished. This war had accomplished nothing for the Vanir, and now it was time to reach out to the Aesir and end the fighting. Njord also had gained great respect for the abilities and honor that the Aesir had shown during this conflict, and felt that they could be as strong a friend as they had been an enemy. He too held a council, and after Freyja seconded the motion, all in attendance voted for peace.
The next day, under a flag of truce, Njord with his children, Freyr and Freyja, met with Odin and his captains of war, just outside the great wall. The two sides agreed that peace was the only course that made sense at this point. They made a truce in this way : " They all went up to a crock and spat into it, to show their disdain for this war, and their willingness to embrace a lasting peace. They would forget their past differences, and live together in peace and with common cause. When they were going away the Gods took the truce token, and would not allow it to be lost, and made a man of it. They decided that his name was to be Kvasir. He was so wise that no one could ask him a question that he could not answer. Kvasir became a living symbol of peace, and a reminder of how terrible war could be.
To seal the peace, as was the custom, hostages were exchanged. Hoenir and Mimir went to live with the Vanir, and Njord and his children, Freyr and Freyja, lived in Asgard. These three Vanir Gods and Goddesses would later be so well liked that the Aesir honored them by numbering them among themselves. The Vanir however, saw Hoenir as having leadership qualities, and tried to use him in that capacity. Hoenir however, relied so heavily on Mimir's advice and wisdom, that when Mimir was away, Hoenir would not make any decisions, and allowed others to decide important issues. This aggravated the Vanir who felt that they had been cheated in the truce exchange, having given up Njord and his wonderful children. In retaliation they beheaded Mimir, and sent the head back to Odin. Odin, was furious at first, but when he was able to make Mimir's head speak, he was able to add Mimir's wisdom to his own, and therefore said nothing of this breach of peace. The truce held, and the Aesir and the Vanir have remained on amiable terms ever since. The Jotuns on the other hand would have to bide their time and wait for the final days, that the Norns called Ragnarok, before attacking either Midgard or Asgard. The Aesir - Vanir alliance was just too strong !
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
The Gods were lying in the beautiful meadows that surrounded Asgard playing games on golden gameboards without a care. The Goddesses were gossiping while they weaved gold and silver threads into beautiful garments and beddings. Their children, who they watched with the careful eyes of a mother, played in the fields running and laughing to and fro. The Gods and Goddesses never knew of war and strife. Behind their great wall, built long ago by a Jotun, they were sure they were safe from any and all harm. That is if an enemy could get past the ever vigilant Heimdall ! Their world was their heaven and they were peaceful and content. Idunn visited the God and Goddesses, giving each of them one of the golden apples that they trusted only with her. With each bite of this fruit the Aesir was granted the promise of eternal youth. Everyone in Asgard was happy and content on this day, as they were on all days. Everyone that is but one, the All - Father.
Odin, from his high - seat in Hlidskjalf, was very concerned ! From this sacred throne he could see out over all the nine worlds, and know what was happening in each. Nothing missed the All - Father' s watchful eyes, and he did not like what he was seeing. Events were changing in the nine worlds that could be very detrimental to the Aesir. The Jotuns had multiplied, and were ever so slowly pushing towards Midgard. The three Jotun - Maidens were great cause for concern as well. They were monstrous to look at, and had recently set down laws for men to follow, and were starting to control the destiny of mankind. Odin also felt threatened by their knowledge of the past, present, and most especially the future.
Odin was most concerned however, by the resurgence of the Old Ones known as the Vanir. These Gods lived in the world known as Vanaheim, and were using their Seidr, ( Magic ), to upset the balance of the universe. Odin thought on this long and hard, weighing all possibilities and options. He consulted seeresses, and even went to see Mimir to seek his advice and counsel. Finally, Odin decided that it was time to take action !
Odin held a council with the other Gods, and they carefully considered the situation that was developing before them. They discussed for long hours the prospects of both war and peace. The debate at times became quite heated with violence being only narrowly avoided. Finally, everyone was in agreement that something had to be done about the Vanir, who had trampled on their honor. And that revenge was required to restore it. The decision was made, they would go to war, an annihilate the intrusive Vanir Gods and destroy Vanaheim. Not one of the Gods, not even mild mannered Bragi, talked of peace that day !
When the Vanir heard of these threats made against them, they sent their envoy, Gullveig, to meet with the Aesir. In the great Asgardian hall, Gullveig warned the Aesir council that any and all credible threats, or encroachment of any kind on Vanaheim, would lead to war. To back her warnings, and to give strength and meaning to her words, she showed them her powerful Seidr. Odin, whose council had already decided on war, was furious by her brash show of defiance. And she had the audacity to do it right there in his sacred hall ! Odin could take no more, he broke his own sacred decree about spilling blood in the ancient holy hall; he picked up his spear Gungnir, and shot it into the Vanir host . Countless spears were cast at Gullveig that day to no avail. In Odin's hall they burned her body three times, but three times she was re - born.
When Njord heard of these atrocities, he called the Vanir into council, and asked for a vote of war against the Aesir. Freyr jumped to his feet, raised his mighty sword that fought by itself, and cried out, " Revenge for our Queen of Seidr, Gullveig. All then rose in unison, lead by Freyja, and shouted for war. It is said that this shout could be heard throughout all of the nine worlds. Njord simply said quietly, " Then war it shall be ! " They put on their coats of mail, bright silver helmets, and belted sharp swords on their sides. All was made ready for an attack on the great citadel that was Asgard. Most rode on white horses to the field of battle, some however, wore feather coats and flew above the horse soldiers. The peace was over, the war about to begin !
End part one.
Part II : The War Of The Gods !
Behind their great wall, with his cavalry, and holding the middle of the battle line, Odin sat upon his mount in overall command. On his right was his son Thor, and Tyr held the line steady on the left. Odin did not know how the Vanir had sneaked by Heimdall and into Asgard, but he suspected Vanir magic. In the fields outside the great wall of Asgard the Vanir looked weak, and unimpressive to Odin. They were far fewer in number than the Aesir, and seemed spread out and disorganized. Some wore no armor at all but seemed to be covered in feathers. Odin had seen enough, he decided to clear the fields outside of the great wall of these unwelcomed trespassers. He decided to take the offensive and attack ! He did however, leave Balder and Hodr in reserve behind the wall to defend Asgard just in case . Odin was the wisest of the Aesir and never took foolish chances if he did not have to, and a reserve seemed like a sound decision. Odin laughed and thought that Balder and Hodr would not be needed anyway, because these Vanir Gods and Goddesses were not known for their pension for war, but for love and fertility. They would never be able to stand before the onslaught of the Aesir War Gods !
The great gates of Asgard were slowly opened, and out poured first Thor's legion, on the right, followed immediately by Tyr's legion on the left. After lining up in perfect lines of battle, they shouted a great war cry and ran at the Vanir at full speed. Then Odin, with Loki riding by his side, streamed through the gap between Thor's troops and Tyr' s troops with his cavalry, and attacked at full gallop. Then one of the Vanir, a woman in full battle dress, who Odin recognized as Njord's daughter Freyja, knelt down and raised her hands to the sky. Odin smiled, there would be no surrendering now ! But the great magical warrior Freyja was not surrendering, she was summoning ! Suddenly, the thickest fogs that had ever hit Asgard rolled in, and enveloped everything on the battlefield. Njord raised his hand and blew up a breeze that pushed the fog all the way past the great wall and into Asgard as well. None of the Aesir could see the hands in front of their faces, let alone the enemy that lay before them ! Freyja rose up and shouted for all to hear : " ATTACK" ! Njord with his son Freyr on his right and Freyja on his left moved foward as one into the fray. The Vanir using their magic were able to see right through the fog, and pick out their foes with ease, while the Aesir could only flail wildly at their perceived enemy in their front. The Vanir warriors, with the feather coats, took to the air and began attacking from above. Odin sensed that they were in a bad way but pressed on. He did however tell Thor, through his thoughts to go back and reinforce Balder and Hodr in Asgard, and act as a last line of protection for the citizens of Asgard. Thor understood his orders and obeyed at once !
The Vanir easily rolled up the Aesir lines that stood before them, and pushed them steadily backwards to the great wall itself. The carnage was horrible ! The clang of sword against sword, and the dull "thud" of swords hitting shields was deafening. The screams of the wounded and dying was almost unbearable ! The Aesir, though valiant, could not fight an enemy that they could not see. Those who could retreated behind the the wall and awaited what they were sure would be the final battle. Then they heard a sound that they thought they would never hear, the walls of the great wall being demolished. Thor alone moved foward, his eyes red with fury, his hammer held high ! Thor no longer cared whether he could see the enemy or not. He went as wild as a berserker, swinging his great hammer back and forth in the gloomy mist. Savagely he laughed when he heard his stone hammer hitting their soft flesh. He laughed even harder when he heard Vanir bones cracking ! When he heard the fluttering of wings overhead, or felt a breeze upon his face, he ducked and swung his hammer in a circular motion until he heard the hammer make contact . He moved foward slowly beating a path back to where the Vanir had breached the great wall. Balder and Hodr moved foward with him, proud of their great prince, and willing to die for great Odin and Asgard ! When the Vanir became backed up against the great wall themselves, Njord signalled for a retreat back to their original positions outside of the wall. Thor would have chased them all the way back to Vanaheim, but Odin, in his wisdom, shouted for Thor to stop ! Thor looked back in the direction of the shouted order with angry eyes, and a heart burning with fury and revenge, but kept going. Odin then said more gently through his thoughts, " Thor........., son, we cannot afford to lose you, come back within the walls of Asgard. " Thor understood his father's tone , and understood the wisdom behind his words. The fury subsided, and Thor stopped and headed back. Though Thor had beaten back the Vanir, and avoided total defeat, Odin considered the battle a loss, because of their great losses, and the wall being severely damaged. Parts of Asgard that were closest to the wall had also been heavily damaged to the Asgardians dismay. The battle had been won by Vanir magic, and Odin realized that the Vanir were a formidable enemy who could no longer be taken lightly.
A stalemate then ensued between the Aesir, protected by a hastily repaired wall, and the Vanir who were encamped outside the great wall. From time to time both sides would send out raiding parties to feel each other out, but all this accomplished was further loss of life. On one of these attacks Balder and Hodr tried to attack under the cover of darkness, but Freyr made the sun shine, and they were discovered. In their ferocious fight back to the walls of Asgard, Hodr was struck across the face with Freyr' s magic sword that fought by itself, and lost his sight forever. Balder carried his blinded brother back behind the wall with tears streaming down his face. Odin, seeing this, realized there had to be another way. No matter what plan was tried, or what magic used, neither side was going to win this horrible war. Across the field of battle, Njord, a wise God in his own right, was having similar thoughts.
End part two.
Part III : The Peace.
Then Odin called all the mighty Gods to give judgement. They took council together, and realized that they had two choices : Accept great losses, or give all the Gods, including the Vanir, their due. Odin could see through his anger, and understood that the Aesir and the Vanir were now few in numbers, and neither could sustain such losses for long. He also worried about the gathering strength of the Jotuns, and did not want to get caught off - guard by them in a weakened state.
He also understood now that an alliance between the Aesir and the Vanir would strengthen both realms, and together they could ward of all enemies. When Odin expressed his views, before the great council, all agreed that they should go and meet with the Vanir leader, Njord, and seek common ground for a lasting peace.
On the other side of the great wall, Njord also saw the futility of continuing this conflict. They had been few in number at the beginning of the war, and now were even further diminished. This war had accomplished nothing for the Vanir, and now it was time to reach out to the Aesir and end the fighting. Njord also had gained great respect for the abilities and honor that the Aesir had shown during this conflict, and felt that they could be as strong a friend as they had been an enemy. He too held a council, and after Freyja seconded the motion, all in attendance voted for peace.
The next day, under a flag of truce, Njord with his children, Freyr and Freyja, met with Odin and his captains of war, just outside the great wall. The two sides agreed that peace was the only course that made sense at this point. They made a truce in this way : " They all went up to a crock and spat into it, to show their disdain for this war, and their willingness to embrace a lasting peace. They would forget their past differences, and live together in peace and with common cause. When they were going away the Gods took the truce token, and would not allow it to be lost, and made a man of it. They decided that his name was to be Kvasir. He was so wise that no one could ask him a question that he could not answer. Kvasir became a living symbol of peace, and a reminder of how terrible war could be.
To seal the peace, as was the custom, hostages were exchanged. Hoenir and Mimir went to live with the Vanir, and Njord and his children, Freyr and Freyja, lived in Asgard. These three Vanir Gods and Goddesses would later be so well liked that the Aesir honored them by numbering them among themselves. The Vanir however, saw Hoenir as having leadership qualities, and tried to use him in that capacity. Hoenir however, relied so heavily on Mimir's advice and wisdom, that when Mimir was away, Hoenir would not make any decisions, and allowed others to decide important issues. This aggravated the Vanir who felt that they had been cheated in the truce exchange, having given up Njord and his wonderful children. In retaliation they beheaded Mimir, and sent the head back to Odin. Odin, was furious at first, but when he was able to make Mimir's head speak, he was able to add Mimir's wisdom to his own, and therefore said nothing of this breach of peace. The truce held, and the Aesir and the Vanir have remained on amiable terms ever since. The Jotuns on the other hand would have to bide their time and wait for the final days, that the Norns called Ragnarok, before attacking either Midgard or Asgard. The Aesir - Vanir alliance was just too strong !
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
Skadhi : The Heart Of The Huntress
Though asleep Skadhi could sense the presence of something hovering over her. As she opened her eyes she saw a massive brown shape blocking out the dawn sunlight. When it saw her eyes opening it growled and waved its long front legs manacingly above her, its large curled claws outlined against the clear blue sky. Skadhi shook her head, and took a long breath before she said, " It is too early for this my furry little friend. " The young bear growled even louder as it backed away, lowering itself onto all four paws. " Yes, yes, " Skadhi said wincing. " I know I promised to give you fishing lessons today, but can' t I just rest a little longer ?" Hearing that, the bear shook his head from side to side, and stomped his front paws up and down. " Oh, Alright ! ", Skadhi shouted . " A promise is a promise. " When the little brown bear, that Skadhi had named Little Growler, saw her getting up, he rolled over on his back and made a howling sound that echoed through the mountains and into the valleys. Skadhi just laughed and said, " Oh, now you are very happy my furry little friend. "
Skadhi made herself a breakfast of dried meat and berries before gathering up her gear and breaking camp. Though Little Growler paced back and forth impatiently, Skadhi took her time cleaning up the area that she used for her campsite, and always left her camp exactly the way it looked before she had used it. She never left even a trace that she had been there. The mountains and forests were her home as well as her hunting grounds, and she took pride in their appearance. Finally, to the delight of Little Growler, she strapped on her snowshoes, and joined by her furry companion, headed off to the stream to do some fishing.
It was a cold crisp morning that lesser beings would have found uncomfortable, but to Skadhi it was wonderfully invigorating. As they came to the slope, that led down to the partially frozen stream, they hit a snow drift and Little Growler sunk into the snow up to its neck. It stared over at Skadhi with the look of a helpless child who was seeking assistance from its mother, and Skadhi, who never sunk into the snow on her magical snow shoes, walked over to her helpless friend and gently lifted him up, and placed him further down the slope out of the deep snow. Little Growler roared his approval, and shook himself to remove the snow from his fur. Skadhi smiled as she remembered the time when she first met the little bear cub. It was digging in deep snow trying to get to its mother who had been buried and killed in an avalanche. As she approached the tiny cub, it turned and growled at her as menacingly as it could. Skadhi, a giant, towered over this little creature, and she laughed at him for his bold defense. She decided right then and there to adopt this tiny bear cub, and to raise and teach him as best she could. They had been together ever since.
When they reached the stream Skadhi took off her snow shoes, and her boots made of reindeer hide, and waded into the flowing water. Little Growler went over to the frozen edge of the bank of the stream, and dipped one paw into the frigid water, and then withdrew it just as quickly. Skadhi looked at him and with a scowl upon her face said, " You are a bear my furry friend, so in you go. " With that she picked him up and deposited him into the middle of the stream. When Skadhi saw the startled look on Little Growler's face, she laughed hysterically, and fell over onto the rocky bank. After the moment had passed she went back into the stream, and showed Little Growler how to look through the clear mountain water to see the fish swimming below. After a few minutes she saw a large fish swimming just in front of her, and with reflexes that were as fast as any animals, plunged her face into the frigid water, and caught a large salmon in her mouth. Little Growler looked first at the fish and then at Skadhi, before letting out an approving roar. He snapped at the fish, but Skadhi pulled her face away and let the fish go. " You won't learn if you do not do it yourself !" she explained. " Now do as I showed you and get one yourself. " Skadhi then turned and walked out of the stream and dried her feet on the bank. As she was doing so she watched her student splashing around in the water, failing time after time. All she could do at this point was smile and encourage his efforts. She knew Little Growler would eventually catch one, it was just a matter of practice.
As she sat there watching her student intently she heard in the distance a familiar howl. She howled back in response, and within minutes was joined by a pack of large grey wolves. She looked over and asked, " Where have you been all morning ? " The leader of the pack, a large male that she called Swift - Runner, lifted his head skywards and let out a howl in response to her question. " Hunting " ? Skadhi asked. " Well where is your prize ? " Swift - Runner laid down on his belly, crawled over to Skadhi, and let out a small whimpering howl. " You lost it in deep snow ? " She said shaking her head. " You know you have to circle your prey so you can lead it to where you want it to go before attacking ! " Hearing her tone, all the wolves put their heads down and crawled over to where Skadhi was sitting. She just laughed and said, " Well, next time you will just have to better ! " Hearing that, one by one, the wolves jumped up onto her lap, and received Skadhi' s affection.
By noon Little Growler had started to get the hang of it, and had caught two small salmon and a trout. He proudly brought the two salmon over to the bank and laid them at Skadhi' s feet. Skadhi gave her pupil a big hug while the wolves howled their approval. He ate the trout out in the stream thinking that Skadhi would not notice, but very little is missed by the eyes of a marksman. Skadhi allowed him to keep that prize for his lunch. Little Growler then sat down beside Skadhi wanting a rest. Skadhi just pointed a finger back in the direction of the stream, and slowly, reluctantly, Little Growler waded back into the freezing water to try his luck again.
As Skadhi sat petting her wolves she noticed out of the corner of her eye that Sift - Runners' ears had perked up. " Yes, I see it too my friend. " she said in a low voice. On the other side of he stream, and about 50 yards away, was a large reindeer that had come down to the water' s edge to drink. Skadhi slowly stood up, and with a fast and fluid motion, pulled an arrow from her quiver, set it on the string, sighted the prey, and let loose the bolt. The reindeer did not even have time to blink its eyes before the arrow hit just below the shoulder, and pierced its heart. A second later it hit the ground with a dull thud. The wolves began howling and jumping up and down with joy. Even Little Growler, cold and wet in mid - stream roared his approval. Skadhi just frowned and with a sigh said, " Well, I guess I will have to go over and get it. "
That night, a short distance from the stream, Skadhi roasted her reindeer meat over a blazing fire, while her wolves, and Little Growler, made a meal of the twenty two salmon that the young, but now skilled, bear had caught. As she spun the meat over the fire she yelled over to Swift - Runner to save one of the salmon for her. The wolf - pack leader immediately grabbed one and placed it behind him. To make the point he growled menacingly at the other wolves, who quickly understood that this salmon was not to be touched. After a hearty dinner, Skadhi sat looking up at the twinkling stars that shone in the clear night sky, and thought of her husband Njord back in Noatun. She loved him dearly, and wished that she could be with him, but knew that only here in this cold and desolate world of Thrymheim could she truly happy. Skadhi actually winced a little when she thought of those horrible little shore birds, and that awful noise they made that kept her awake. Here in the mountains there was a calming quiet that made one feel at home. She smiled as the last thing she sensed before falling asleep that night was Little Growler nudging her as he lay down beside her .
The End
- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.
