The Crystal Swordsman: Alfheim's Awakening

Rejuvinated Spirit

I felt the gentle blowing wind flow through my hair and feathers as I stood atop the roof of my tall kings quarters. I took in a beautiful morning hue as the sun rose on Alfheim's vast horizons. I inhaled a long deep breath of the Yggdrasil's clear air and felt at peace with the land around me.

"Daddy!!" I heard Athena call.

I looked down to the base of the ziggurat and saw her riding happily upon Fenrir's back. He barked at me and wagged his tail, excited to finally see me home again. I smiled and launched off the roof, landing right in front of them both with my arms out.

"Hello again! Both of you!" I greeted as they rushed towards me.

Athena got off and Fenrir excitedly licked one side of my face. It was that kind of raw excitement for one person that only dogs could show and it was adorable to see him act that way.

"Oh, yes. I'm home, buddy." I rubbed his big head as Athena held her hands up to me.

"I've missed you so much, princess!" I lifted her up and held her with one arm.

"I missed you too!" She squeaked and cutely kissed my cheek.

"Awe, why thank you, sweetheart. Let's take Fenny inside, hm? Your mother is making a wonderful brunch for us all to enjoy." I told her.

"Ooo, really? That sounds yummy!" Athena cheered and I chuckled as I lead Fenrir up the stairs.

He obediently walked close behind me as I opened the front doors with my off hand to allow us inside. And there it was, a beautifully prepared breakfast based table of absolute delight. Syrup with pancakes and well made French toast, a choice of sunny side up or scrambled eggs, baskets of biscuits as well as many fantasy styled cinnamon rolls, deserts and other kinds of sweets. It was practically glistening in the light.

"K! It's good to see you back!" Kirito greeted with a wave as the others indulged in conversation. 

I smiled but as I went to respond, Sinon came out of the kitchen with a large platter with a jug of red juice and cups for the table.

"And finally, the drinks. Oh! There you are, both of you sweethearts." Sinon came up and squished Athena's cheek before kissing her forehead.

Then she turned to me and kissed my cheek as she softly guided me along to my royal seat. I made a clicking sound with my tongue and gestured with my head for Fenrir to sit with Skoll who was laying on the ground panting. Sinon gently took Athena from me and sat down next to me with Athena on her lap. I took my seat and smiled, excited to not only taste the delicious food but to be back in Alfheim again.

"Does everyone have a drink?" Asuna asked and held up her set glass.

I grabbed two glasses for Sinon and I and poured them quickly to which Athena pouted.

"Me too!" She demanded.

"Of course, little one. You get one too." I grabbed a third glass and filled it with juice before sliding them gently over.

"Thank you, love." Sinon smiled at me.

I just nodded and looked to the group who were all holding up their glasses.

"I'd just like to say that even tho it was unfamiliar at first, we really expressed our true talents when it came down to it. And we have you to thank for it, K! We appreciate all the new things you've taught us along this new journey and we can't even begin to show you how grateful we are." Asuna toasted.

"Aww, it's alright, guys. Really, I merely suggested what was best." I didn't take the credit.

"More like you knew what was best." Liz emphasized.