Jingū swallowed in great fear Sobek's new expression, so much was about to scream even though her body only managed to let out a hiccup sound.

The spectators also fell silent; the little Valkyries in her place, in Cleopatra her curiosity was lit, Simo and Jeanne together with Hlokk felt fear but great interest. Also the gods were somewhat surprised by the reaction of the crocodile, though…

Only Hathor and Khonsu were calm, as if they knew what the crocodile was going to do.

Hesitantly the Japanese woman stood up, having a slight tremor in legs. Ran her hands quickly over cheeks, wiping them clean, and crossed them back shyly as bowed her head in respect and regret, showing she didn't even dare lift eyes.

For his part, Sobek calmly looked at Jingū waiting for her to say something between tears and sobs, like a moving speech or at least a couple more words. But, seeing she wasn't going to talk, decided to speak after a deep breath.

– As you surely know, a millennium ago there was a Ragnarok. Not in this place, but in Valhalla where perhaps you've been before…

» As it should also be, important, outstanding, powerful members of humanity and Heaven participated in that tournament, and the most outstanding of all time; from the foundation of the Cosmos to the present…

» Tell me, Your Majesty, do you know who were the kings who fought a thousand years ago in Ragnarok?

The woman answered silently; used the negative shake of head to answer, without looking up or making a sound. It annoyed Sobek a little but kept talking.

– Very well. Let me list them in order of appearance, so you don't lose my thread:

» Zeus, God Father of the Cosmos and King of Olympus,

» Poseidon, Tyrant of the Seas and my predecessor,

» Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and supreme ruler of the Svarga, the top of the 1117,

» Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China and the one who started it all,

» Odin, Allfather, the god of magic and former king of Asgard.

» Leonidas, the proud king of Sparta and last murderer of gods.

» And, if include what just saw recently, Huitzilopochtli, the Southern Hummingbird and king of Aztlan,

» Not counting this "fight of kings", there are 7 kings who've set foot in this combat arena to debate the past, present and future of your race. Your Majesty, can you tell me… What do they have in common, apart from being kings?

She shook head in denial, so Sobek continued.

– They all received my approval; everyone got my thumbs up.

» They fought with everything had, giving everything of themselves and even their own lives, strength, power, determination, will, souls… Sacrificed their existences to achieve the purpose of a king: victory for his people.

» 4 out of 7 achieved that goal, and for that I admire them even if it's only in thought. They were and are kings who abide by the code of royalty you may have already heard: never trust, never doubt, never depend, never give in, never give up. These are things I don't let go.

» Now answer me, Your Majesty… – he began to play with his trident a bit, again – Do you know I entered this arena, in this fight, with only one condition to fulfill?

The woman was surprised at this, but before answer Sobek chuckled slightly.

– No. Of course you don't know; I haven't told it yet, although you must already imagine.

He kept turning the trident, so when stopped it its spikes pointed at humanity tiers.

– My only condition to be the second representative of the gods was: "I'll only accept if my opponent is a king".

» It was impossible for my bosses to know that information in advance, but they didn't care and sent me here. If another human had stepped on this arena, I would have torn it to pieces with my teeth long ago.

» Now, we've reached this point, I have something to say to end this.

Everyone silently waited for the next words; Jingū was already imagining it, so her hands tightened on sides as squeezed her eyes shut.

« This is my end. I even let down a god as powerful as him, who only wanted to fight a king and not… with me…

» Was a big mistake to ask Cleopatra for this position. I'm dead-- »

– I don't regret this fight.

– … Huh?

The entire stadium was completely surprised, as they also expected an outcome; it was then Jingū decided to look up at the crocodile.

– That's right! You've been able to meet and even exceed the expectations I had of royalty! In you I can see new things of kings I would never have imagined…

» Thanks to yourself, you're still alive until now! No matter how fraud you say turned out to be, you're the king I've always wanted to look up to!

Those words took her so much by surprise, without avoiding it, blushed completely; but still her head was cold, so shook head and hugged herself.

– Don't say bullshit! Don't play with my feelings like that! Please… I'm so vulnerable… For you to want to play like this…

– It's not a game. – Sobek stated immediately with great seriousness – You are a real queen.

– Don't say it! I… I'm not a queen!

– Of course you are, even if you doesn't want to--!

– How do you know!? – Getting carried away by courage, she interrupted the crocodile to exclaim furiously – Just for having seen a few fight a thousand years ago and supporting them!? It's a lie! If you were really an expert, you would know I am not! I'm no queen--!

A growl from Sobek interrupted Jingū, long enough to realize her mistake and cover mouth with both hands.

The crocodile gave such a growl it shook the silence in the stadium and caused almost nausea inside the woman, because of everything was feeling. Sobek raised his first gaze to the woman, who was expecting other terrifying eyes like Poseidon's.

But… There wasn't. On the contrary; his eyes together with smile drew childish amusement.

– Who do you think you are to interrupt me for saying such nonsense?

The difference in tonality in his voice became very noticeable as if was playing like a child, which surprised Jingū and the main Trinity of Egypt, although not Hathor or Khonsu.

– Do you think I don't know when I'm in front of a king; I don't know how to recognize real royalty? Do you think I don't know what a king should be like? Crap!

» Let me say I, better than anyone present on the Elysian Fields right now, know perfectly the heart of the king. Since we started fighting I said so, but it seems your delicate feelings have clouded your mind.

The crocodile closed eyes and stood up proudly and with one hand took the trident, now pointing the crocodile sickle to the sky.

– I am Sobek, god of the pharaohs and current Poseidon of Egypt. Not only Tyrant of the Seas, but the one who approves and guides the kings to give Egypt a just government, why do I do it?

When reopened them, both purple eyes had a childlike sparkle.

– 'Cause my great fantasy is royalty.

– Ahh! It's a crocodile!

– Save me, dear Khonsu! It could eat me!

– … Fuck you both…

The divine pair laughed with amusement, both standing on the banks of great river flowed in Egypt divine land; both like teenagers in full puberty.

Those were Hathor and Khonsu, while lying on the river bank was Sobek: a very different god from one who fight in second Ragnarok, being now with a very youthful appearance, a friendlier face, and a smaller and scrawnier body size. At this time, it was only the one took care of the Nile.

The young crocodile snorted in annoyance at his friends who made fun of him for lying with mouth open; closed eyes again, bored, and settled back to sunbathe.

– Sobek, don't be like that! – Khonsu sat next to him – Was just a joke.

– Of course! – Sobek replied with a sarcastic tone – It's easy for you to say, since you don't have to spend all day under sun just to warm up and be able to move.

– Sobek~! Don't be like that! – Hathor lay down on the other side, in a flirtatious way – We're just 2 young people playing.

– Two!? Don't you mean "three"!?

At first Hathor and Khonsu laughed on their own, and soon after Sobek unhesitatingly joined them.

From different parents, but with almost synchronized births, they grew up together doing everything together until became best friends and brothers; they were the well-known "second Trinity of Egypt":

Hathor, cow goddess of arts, such as music and dance; of beauty, love and sexuality. But, back then, a fun-loving young lady creating most exotic parties possible, taking advantage of her physical gifts to get rid of consequences.

Khonsu, falcon god of moon, and nurse of Egypt; with great gift and wisdom for medicine and even deal with demons. At that time, his immaturity led to test his knowledge in creating drugs always went wrong.

Sobek, crocodile god of the Nile and, although nobody accepted it, of pharaohs. Compared to friends, he had less to do: take care of Nile, avoiding droughts or floods, and choose a king when the previous one dies.

But, like friends, his adolescence made him somewhat careless in work: always did what wanted with the Nile. Raise the tide to drown some children playing on the shore? Starve the entire country just to see how they survive? No problem. This isn't to mention sometimes the river was a sponsor of madness of his friends.

The other pair of gods ended up lying on the ground, both face up to look at the sky while Sobek face down received the sun's rays and reflection of water.

– This is very boring. – Hathor commented with typical sensual voice, although giving a prolonged yawn – Being here all day and looking at the sun, aren't you bored? You don't get tired?

– First, I never look at the sun. Don't do it, you'll get blind.

– The point is, how do you not get bored? – Khonsu inquired, with both arms crossed behind neck.

– Sometimes I'm bored. But I also know how to do fun things.

The crocodile looked up to see his body, noticing there was a bit of sweat on scales, shiny and a bit smelly (also a rare condition since he shouldn't sweat).

He got up from the ground and stretched his body a bit, which at that time wasn't endowed.

– For example, today I have a lot of sweat.

Moved his hands scribbling in the air, which was interpreted by his hydrokinesis* to levitate sweat to gather into a small sphere, which immediately threw into river. Hathor was completely disgusted, almost ready to throw up, while Khonsu chuckled.

– Yuck, Sobek! You're a gross!

– Everything about you! – Khonsu got up from the ground too – After that, what happens?

Sobek laughed too, like a child doing mischief.

– We wait again. This time a human drinks from the river thinking it's water.

– Nasty! – Hathor covered her face with shame – 'Cause of you, I won't drink water for a week!

– You wanted to know how much fun I had!

Khonsu stopped laughing, clearing throat before placing his hand on friend's shoulder.

– You leave a lot to be desired.

– That's why we're your only friends! – Hathor responded to comment.

– I've always been like that… You accepted me like that! – Saying this, the crocodile turned around to jump into the river. – So cold! Don't you want to come in?

– After seeing how you threw away your sweat, I won't--!

– With your permission!

Khonsu interrupted the cow goddess, throwing himself into the water without thinking. Then crocodile and falcon started a game fight, reaching to splash at the feet of Hathor, who stopped disgust and began to laugh seeing friends.

– You both are a couple of immature. Also, this river is supposed to be for the use of the Trinity only.

– Trinity… Kings! – Sobek immediately became serious – I forgot to make my report!

The crocodile went to the shore, rummaging in grass on shore until found a slightly worn notebook; he began to leaf through it desperately to find a blank page.

– Crap! – Khonsu exclaimed – You're going to start with your fetishes!

– I already told you it's not a fetish! It's my passion!

– Passion? We don't understand those things! – sitting Hathor dipped her feet in the water – You're the only one, perhaps in the entire cosmos, who takes royalty… VERY seriously.

That was Sobek's second job: to care for and watch over the kings of Egypt. Unlike his work on Nile, this activity was carried out with all his might: just hearing the word "king" encouraged and cheered up his worst days, and over time such passion became… like an addiction.

In short, Sobek loved royalty, thrones, and kings with all heart.

– Let's see; soon the pharaoh will die, and the possible wounded of him are the nephews, the wife, and the advisers. First of all, there are the nephews…

The crocodile began to jot down various things in the notebook, leaving Khonsu to float in silence while Hathor shuffled feet vigorously. After a few minutes, slammed the notebook shut and dove back into the river.

– All right! I've just finished!

– This is the umpteenth time I'm telling you… – Khonsu commented softly, spitting water as if it were a fountain – You spend a lot of time every time we mention the word "king".

– It isn't true! – Before the accusing looks of friends had to give in – Okay! Maybe a little, but… Royalty really is wonderful!

» Leading an entire town with an unbreakable spirit, having the courage to take responsibility beyond oneself, sacrificing what one loves and desires most for the well-being of many… It's fascinating! I love royalty!

Sobek began to float in the same way as Khonsu, letting thoughts flow until reached a very serious and… somewhat extreme conclusion.

– If I could choose… I would like to die by the hand of a perfect king, than live eternity in riches of Egypt.

Hathor and Khonsu were completely silent; their faces indicated it seemed they were going to reflect…

Mistake. They proceeded to burst out laughing.

– LOL! You are… a fool who talks crazy nonsense!

– A big fetish idiot! No wonder we're your only friends!

Hearing it made Sobek a little angry; being about to answer, preferred to act in another way against both of them.

– Do you know what more nonsense I can do? Take revenge!

The crocodile moved hands so river water formed a small wave, which rose to grab Hathor by the feet and drag her into him in a plunge.

Hathor broke the surface, all wet, as Khonsu laughed.

– That was cool!

– It's up to you too! – Sobek formed a small ball of water in hands, which threw at Khonsu's face – Water ball war!

– That's not fair! – Hathor snorted, annoyed at being in the river. – You're the only one who can--!

A sphere of water interrupted her complaints, bursting into face and washing away her makeup.

The crocodile continued to shoot balls of water as laughed maniacally, so Hathor and Khonsu joined forces to confront him.

Three great friends; inseparable, accomplices of each other, companions in war. In that time of youth, those brothers couldn't be separated for any reason, only for a change came in time:

The maturity.

Time passed with the speed any god feels; Trinity of Egypt decided to impose more tasks on them in addition to admonishing for their constant problems.

Hathor became secretary and right hand to Isis, taking charge of many of her personal and political affairs. Under care of Osiris, Khonsu became a physician to the gods with more focus, sometimes traveling to other pantheons to help.

Sobek stayed in Egypt; Horus took charge of him, although rather the crocodile's abilities and advice regarding kingship were of help to the Fifth God Pharaoh. Sobek grew up on his account, taking advantage of being an advisor to Horus to attend the king's bookstore and increase his knowledge of kings from other places, human and divine.

He sometimes received visits from his friends to share experiences of their lives "as adults"; Khonsu hung out with him more to act like best friends and sometimes go back to playing in river. Hathor visited to have certain flirtatious moments with him, even after the crocodile confessed was in love of her and she rejected him with a resounding "NO".

Despite the fact he now also had more responsibilities than before, Sobek still had a great love for royalty: now he knew more kings than before, as rulers of different human countries and in other pantheons, the Egyptian god grew more and more in his philosophy: of right attitude, right appearance, right status and the self-esteem of a king.

Sobek began to search for the perfect king, which almost found.

When? His investigation reached its peak in first Ragnarok.

Through her influence, Hathor got the best tickets in Valhalla tiers shared with her 2 best friends; After organizing their schedules, making a plan, preparing everything necessary, the 3 Egyptian brothers attended the coliseum shortly before the first round.

After so long of being with little communication, that moment was golden for them.

– It'll be a lot of fun, guys! – before taking their seats, Hathor hugged them both.

– I can imagine it! – Khonsu smiled with same emotion – Hearing lord Zeus accepted that proposal… It made my feathers stand on end!

– Yeah, very interesting.

However, Sobek had his notebook in hand, taking advantage of occasion to write down everything his eyes perceived as royalty. For this Hathor immediately scolded him.

– No weird fetishes! – she snatched the book in one motion to hide between breasts.

– Hey, give it back!

– Nope! We're here to be the 3 of us, the second Trinity of Egypt, reunited again! Leave your royal fetishes for a few hours!

– Besides, what do those human kings matter? – Khonsu snorted with amusement – ​​We already know the gods will win.

– Oh, right… – Sobek's countenance fell in an instant – There will be no more… human kings to study…

Hathor stuck out her tongue at him.

– 'Cause of that silly fetishes you don't have a wife.

The 3 took a seat; Hathor in middle, and each of the others at her sides. As soon as Heimdall started to walk on the sand, the cow goddess placed a finger on both of their mouths.

– Silence! It's about to start… And, according to lady Isis' reports I read without her permission, the first one will be lord Thor!

– Really!? – Khonsu got quite excited – I've heard the legends… I want to see the power of his mighty Mjolnir!

At first Sobek was downcast, but seeing the spirits of friends lifted his mood immediately; removed Hathor's hand from muzzle to entwine his own with it, surprising the goddess.

– I'm glad to be here, in this coliseum with you, to share this experience.

– Me too… – Hathor smiled coquettishly – I'm glad to be with you again, Sobek.

– Don't forget me! – Khonsu completed, sticking head out – Without me, you two would still be in tension or there would already be a new divine generation.

Sobek laughed a little though Hathor blushed; shortly before Heimdall began to speak, the crocodile threw a fist into the air.

– Let's enjoy Ragnarok!

Ragnarok began and it's not necessary to say much of what we already know: the gods underestimated their creation, which cost them the loss of 6 mighty warriors, the betrayal of a seventh, and a humiliating defeat remembered for 1000 years.

But Sobek wasn't affected by any of that. He had mind on another topic: the 6 kings who fought in Ragnarok.

The first combat of a king, lord Zeus against the first father Adam, was to his liking but didn't give it much importance when saw who could be the master of skills, authority and royalty: Poseidon.

Such 16 minutes of the second king's match were his favorite. Could admire his arrogance, determination, high standard of perfection somehow reminded him of his love for kings; Sobek practically became a fan, although his admirer ended up being killed by a common peasant human, Sasaki Kojiro.

Then came the other kings' fights fascinated him: Shiva, king of Svarga, against Raiden Tameemon, rikishi without equal and almost king of sumo; Qin Shi Huang, first emperor of China, against Anubis, judge of dead and his colleague.

His second favorite match was the most important fight of kings in that Ragnarok: King Leonidas of Sparta against King Odin of Asgard. Such a fight took his breath away, and it might have been his favorite hadn't the old Asgardian confessed to his coup against Zeus before died.

But didn't much care of it; in fact, by end of Ragnarok, he no longer cared if final victory would be for gods or for humans, but only one thing: the perfect king he sought so much be the one who had the victory, taking that title the Spartan leader.

Ragnarok greatly changed how Sobek perceived the world, now he knew more of the potential for kingship in both humans and gods. After defeat of Heavens, returned to Egypt to continue his divine tasks at same time he further extended his research as a hobby.

But, that period of peace and tranquility was also about to end; not in a bad way, but it would bring a new change for Sobek.

One morning there were too many clouds in sky causing the weather to be colder than usual. Sobek half asleep on bank of Nile was waiting for some rays of sunshine, but it seemed impossible.

– I don't like this. There isn't sun… Will I have to talk to Trinity to do something? Or… Will I risk using my gift?

A yawn interrupted him and eyes closed giving in to sleep.

– The disadvantages of being a cold-blooded animal. I wish was a cat. – settled on grass and closed his eyes completely – I guess I'll sleep for a while, or all day. I don't know…

Almost instantly fell asleep, releasing some drool; such a break would not last long, or at least not as long as was enjoying it.

Felt a heavy object on his body; deposited slowly on his back, then something soft on the top of head. Being light sleeper, such sensation woke him up immediately.

– Who is it?

– Just your childhood friend, and sometimes lover~ – Hathor replied with a flirtatious murmur.

– Hi Hathor; What makes you come here? Don't you have a job with lady Isis?

– I already fulfilled my part, so I came to visit my fetishist friend who was surely alone.

– How funny… – shook his head feeling such a soft and heavy object – This up here, what is it?

– What else would it be, but my round and beautiful breasts you surely love?

– So it is… – moved his head a little to bounce them – A massage with them would do me good on this cold morning.

– You're still gross, you know? – The cow goddess laughed a little.

– Who brought the breasts into the conversation? – Sobek closed his eyes again – Is something special happening? You use me as a cushion when you want to tell me something.

– This!

The sound of a paper sheet forced him to open eyes; reached out a hand had under his chin to take the blade Hathor extended from his left, to try to read the contents of it.

– A… A contest from Greece?

– That's right. Lord Zeus recently made a summons to all the pantheons; As soon as it arrived, lady Isis asked me to distribute them.

– What is interesting about this contest?

– Keep reading! – she encouraged him, resting her arms on the crocodile's head.

– Let's see…

Sobek continued reading it, until found what would be the reason for Hathor to be there:

– "To find the Poseidon's successor"…

– Think about it! This contest is ideal for you, and may you become the future Poseidon, whom you admired so much; will be great!

– Conditions… – Sobek continued with his eyes on the paper – "Only allowed for deities of sea or with hydrokinesis". In other words, just me.

– Even better! If you win, you'll also be the Poseidon of our Egyptian pantheon; we'll bear the honor of having you; you should come in!

– Maybe… – Sobek was interrupted by a yawn – But I'm not interested.

Such an answer took Hathor by surprise, so she immediately rose from Sobek to face him.

– What's wrong with you!? Why you don't want to go!? It is a great opportunity for you!

– Who told you to get up? I was already warming up.

– I've seen you control water since we were young! I especially remember one time when you made a wave of water to throw me into river, and then started a water ball war against me and Khonsu.

– What a good memory; sure because you're hot-blooded. What envy.

– You have necessary gifts and talents; everything you could possibly need, and even to spare! I can bet you're stronger, faster, tougher and fiercer than most of the gods of all the pantheons…! It's almost like your obligation to go to Olympus to win that contest!

Sobek yawned sleepily again.

– You're right to say I'm better than them. But I'm still not interested.

– Why not? – Hathor lay down on the grass next to the crocodile.

– Well… The first thing is I'm still cold. There is no sun can even lift me off the ground.

Hathor drew a sensual expression with a seductive blush on cheeks.

– Do you want me… to warm you up?

– That's what you did before got up. But, going back to the other… – Sobek raised his hand with 2 fingers standing – The second thing is I really don't care; why should I have the title of Poseidon? Why does everyone think I'm bad face no one likes me? No, thanks.

The cow goddess was silent for a moment, thinking of something else to say.

– How about being the new God of Gods? That would mean changing our concept, completely!

» It's true Poseidon was the G-O-G 'cause represented our great power and perfection; but, if you take that position, you'll also make known the kind and gentle face of yours as the definition of the gods.

– That seems to be… a little more tempting, but… – after thinking about it a bit refused again – I'm still not convinced.

– Then what do you say if--!

Hathor realized what was going to say which caused her to fall silent suddenly; she got nervous for first time, and looked down as played with fingers.

– If you go and win… Would you like me to reward you by becoming your wife?

Sobek's eyes widened, already showing frustration.

– Why the hell so much insistence!?

– I'm so sorry! – Hathor immediately expressed what was hiding – Lady Isis ordered me to have at least one representative from Egypt, so as not to look bad in front of other pantheons and honor Anubis's victory in Ragnarok! She let me out of the office, to come and convince you.

– So that's it… – Sobek sighed heavily – Since Anubis's victory, those three got their egos up in heads to want to do anything to keep it; they would even force you to marry so as not to lose your reputation.

– Perhaps, would you like to marry me?

The crocodile settled back on the grass, to answer with great seriousness.

– Of course; it's what I want the most. But I'm going to get your hand with my masculine merits and not by divine titles.

Such an answer caused Hathor to blush, which made look away with some embarrassment and happiness; she toyed with strands of hair a bit until an idea occurred to her.

She gave a mischievous smile, whereupon moved closer to Sobek to whisper in his ear.

– If you win that contest, you'll be a king.

– … Huh?

– Isn't it obvious to deduce? – Hathor shook her head from side to side – "God of Gods", "second Poseidon", "best in Egypt"; all this also carries the title of "Sovereign of the Seas", which would give you absolute power over the oceans, rivers and seas. In other words, A KING.

As soon as Hathor finished speaking, Sobek gave a tremendous jump with great excitement, almost as if he were excited.

– What are we waiting for!? You have to go with lady Isis to sign my ticket!

Despite having achieved her goal, it wasn't as she wanted; thus, Hathor made an annoyed pout on her face.

– Damn fetishist.

This was followed by contest in Greece which, as we already know, ended in Sobek's victory; coronation ceremony for him, and christening him as the second Poseidon.

A week after the event ended, the crocodile accompanied by leading Trinity entered Egypt in chariots with great triumph. Already at entrance all Egyptian god awaited his arrival with great joy.

– Lord Sobek won the title of Poseidon!

– Was able to defeat all those gods like nothing happened!

– Long live the Poseidon of Egypt!

For his part, Sobek had one hand on the molten trident they gave him and other on his abdomen, holding his bandage and especially his still-present wounds.

« Damn… » Sobek stopped his carriage to get off « That fight against Amemasu left me very bad. The good thing is I earn the title of king-- »

– Sobek!

Hathor appeared from crowd, leaping so fast and sudden Sobek couldn't even have guessed; she bumped into the crocodile immediately, giving him a hug in process, but knocking off the carriage.

– Ahhh! I'm still hurt!

– I'll help you!

Behind them both came Khonsu who took Hathor by waist to lift her up and allow Sobek to take a breather. Already standing and fully erect, he could see his two friends and brothers with big smiles and tearful under their breath.

– You… You did it! You won the contest and… you're still complete! – Hathor covered her face with hands.

– I'd have loved to see how you broke all of their asses! – Khonsu raised his thumb in approval – Now you got the title of royalty you've admired so much, I hope you stop being such a fetishist!

Sobek laughed a little, though stomach hurt.

– I could have gotten better… – Sobek stated immediately – Your approval, Khonsu, and your smile, Hathor.

Bespite the pain, raised the arm in which had the trident, in a clear sign of victory.

– Now I am: The new king of the seas!

The gods around him also shouted in triumph although they didn't understand the reason for those words; only Hathor, Khonsu, and Sobek himself knew.

– 'Cause my great fantasy is royalty.

That statement caught Jingū's attention, so she looked up slightly to see the ruler of seas.

– Since was born, I was willing to care for and watch over kings. And I always put all my efforts into that task… 'Cause I'm fascinated by royalty!

Drool of excitement escaped from his muzzle with a very childlike face, causing Jingū to look away again.

– Thanks to my friends and brothers, I've met many human and divine kings, I really love that gift of being a leader and wearing the crown in pride by thousands!

» Even now I am a king: I'm the ruler of the seas, no matter I'm the second… To think I'm a king, it makes me crazy!

The crocodile laughed excitedly and his tail waggled like a dog; such caused Jingū to feel embarrassed. After it, the crocodile regained his composure to speak seriously.

– I've seen in you the qualities of a queen, but you deny it because of mistakes. That hurts; you must recognize the truth, and truth is you're a queen.

Without hesitation, Jingū shook her head, putting a hand to side, embarrassed and trembling.

– Your Majesty, look at me. You're a queen.

The woman shook her head again, this time with faster movements. Sobek sighed as he put a hand to head to scratch; his next words were given with a certain paternal and loving touch.

– You are a queen, Okinaga Himiko.

– … Huh?

The tiers were especially surprised at such a change of words and name; obviously was Jingū and her acquaintances who were more surprised than the others. So the woman looked up at Sobek completely.

– That name… Many years ago… nobody called me that.

– Heimdall! – Sobek raised his arm to the Nordic – Do you remember the book I asked you to keep? I need it, please.

Heimdall complied immediately, pulling a notebook from his cloak to hand to the crocodile from a crow-flying chair; Hathor and Khonsu immediately identified it.

– That is… his notebook…

The crocodile left the trident nailed to the ground and began to leaf through the notebook until found what wanted.

– Here it is! "Okinaga Himiko/Queen Himiko. A Japanese human of great beauty, calm and introverted personality. Country woman who ascended the throne a few months ago; without heirs yet. This explains her non-existent ability to carry out her duties in royalty, but is very young, like an unripe flower. She has a lot to learn to be a worthy queen of Japan; fortunately, her husband will help and train her during their lives. Postada: has great potential in sword art; don't let her have one if is angry…"

Sobek closed the book and tossed it back to Heimdall.

– That was written before you became empress, as just heard, it was shortly after you got married. It isn't updated because--

– You… – Jingū couldn't believe it, so she interrupted him – You already… Did you already know me?

Sobek gave a light sigh of confession.

– I'll be honest: I forgot you. Since hadn't written much about you 'cause of your youth and there were other kings to study, I left it in oblivion. It was your story made me realize my mistake of not updating my notes.

Those last words gave Jingū a little reason to lower his head in sadness again.

– Then? I only remember my failures, and you didn't even remember much about me… Why do you keep insisting I'm a queen?

– Why do you keep insisting you aren't?

» If your own merits don't qualify as queen, that's your damn problem, but don't think the god of kings is wrong to say it!

– But I--

– Keep quiet!

Sobek's shout silenced Jingū, whereupon was able to continue.

– Do you want me to tell you why you are a queen? Your point of view is clouding you:

» It's true you made mistakes and, in your eyes, your campaign was a failure. You took advantage of whims, turned back for a duel, involved many people in your mission, and feels less in this arena. But I… I see royalty in you!

» A king allows himself luxuries and caprices with which can promise peace. A king has feelings of mourning when a death truly hurts. A king, no matter how many people involves, tries to take care of all its people. A king isn't always ready, but is first to set foot in a place like this arena.

» You… go even further! A woman who was never raised for royalty, with delicate feelings, introversion and emotional hang-ups… I marvel you kept position as queen when you could have taken your own life! Not to mention wiped out your enemies, and you've survived Egypt's Poseidon this far!

Sobek raised his hand to point at humanity behind the woman.

– It's their fault you consider all this a failure… Don't look for the mediocre opinion of humans! They would be able to, right now, dismember and burn you in order to appease our anger… Their opinion is worth nothing!

» If you want approval, get mine! If you want someone to say "I'm proud"… Here I am, and I'm proud of you! If you want a thumbs up… Ask for mine, it's already up for you!

» However it isn't and won't be free… If you want to get it, stand up and keep fighting, and don't disappoint me when you said no, 'cause you are a queen!

As listened, Hathor remembered what Sobek had said many years ago.

– "I would like to die by the hand of a perfect king, than live eternity in riches of Egypt."

– If you keep insisting you aren't the queen who deserves to be here… – Sobek frowned angrily – Then I'll rip you head off with my hands right now, for having made waste my time believing in false promises of Ragnarok!

Jingū was startled by that expression, which Sobek immediately changed.

– But… If you want to fight. If you're willing to take this opportunity to make up for your mistakes, spill your blood, and claim the royalty you deserve… I will be waiting for you!

» I'm here for you! I'll make sure to defeat you, bring you to knees, and defeat as many times as it takes, so you'll get back up all those times as the queen you are! The perfect queen!

The woman silently looked at hands.

– Are you saying… I can be what humanity needs… in this Ragnarok…?

– No. They don't need a lotus flower, but a real king wins… So stand up Himiko! Get up to fight; show the humans and gods you are the perfect queen!

The gods of Egypt were shocked by Sobek's attitude; Khonsu chuckled at them.

For her part, the woman felt a great relief inside her heart: finally, and for the first time in her life, felt was acting right. Without avoiding it, a grateful smile spread across her face as she rose firmly.

– Yes…! T-Thank you very much, Sobek!

The humans felt quite sorry to hear such a speech from the crocodile; after a few moments, they all joined in a new feeling towards the woman: admiration and respect.

– Please fight Jingū! Fight for us!

– Don't let us lose! Win this fight!

– You can Jingū! – Sasaki joined the clamor of humanity – You can against that crocodile!

– Do it mom! – Oujin began to cry with emotion– Win! Win!

Jingū's family members rallied to support her, especially Nakahiko seeing her wife's new attitude.

– That's right! – the little Valkyries hugged each other – Defeat the second tyrant of the seas, Jingū Kougou!

The others inside the stadium showed similar sentiments: Geir watching from the corridors hugged herself; Simo, Mist, Jeanne and Hlokk shouted with excitement; Cleopatra smiled a feeling of envy.

– She doesn't do bad at all~

Several gods, including Athena herself, also supported the motion more than anything to see the victory of their Egyptian representative. Jingū began to feel a pressure on his body, but…

It was a pressure about her confidence.

– Everyone… everyone is trusting me… – bent down to take the 2 pieces of the sword – Just like when they invaded my Japan. Once I turned my back on them and they suffered, but… I don't want to do it this time…

She clutched the pieces in hands, though one of them began to bleed, and raised a smiling face to Sobek.

– I…! I'm going to fight! I still want to fight in Ragnarok!

– I accept your challenge, Okinaga Himiko! I agree to be your opponent in Ragnarok!

Heimdall was also greatly moved.

– After a long pause, it has started the second part of this duel: both fighters are about to resume their fight!

« Come on Himiko! We can still fight! »

– M-Miss Hrist!

The Japanese's face lit up when heard her Valkyrie.

« You're right! We still have to kill that god! »

Jingū's face immediately drew surprise at having 2 voices inside her head, and even more so when the pieces of sword began to glow green.

– Ehhh!?

– What…!? Jingū's sword pieces… are shining; just like with Sasaki Kojiro in the first Ragnarok!

Sobek smiled at memory of that moment; for his part, Sasaki's body reminded that feeling so without avoiding raised his voice to arena.

– Come on, do it now Jingū!

– T-That's…!

The little Valkyries were about to faint from witnessing that moment, while Geir smiled confidently again.

« We'll help you in everything Himiko! We'll give our lives with you! »

The pieces of the sword fell from her hands to encircle the woman's entire body, from stomach to head.

« I'll protect you, so his claws don't pierce again! »

« I'll be your sword, so we destroy that scales again! »

The light became completely blinding so it invaded the entire stadium in a heartbeat.

– RE-VOLUND!!

A few moments later the light disappeared to reveal Jingū Kougou's new appearance.

With sword held by both hands, much smaller than previous one; but the biggest difference was a reddish samurai armor covered from abdomen, breasts, arms and neck of woman.

She managed to glance at herself with surprise, realizing also in her hand was the necklace of stones she had thrown. Decided to put it back in body, and faced Sobek with a new face.

– Let's go!

– In the body of the onna bugeisha, the Re-Volund has given rise to a… a samurai armor for body!

The humans mostly gasped, including Sasaki and Oujin. The little Valkyries let out a cry of excited girls, while Geir also expressed surprise and… Disbelief.

– I-Impossible…

From among the gods; many were scared and others were surprised, including Athena whose eyes began to shine. Sobek was the only one who had pride and a smile on her expression.

– Very well, Okinaga Himiko! Now you look better like a queen.

The Japanese felt a new power run through her body, which gave a chance to take an attack stance.

– Okay, strange king of the seas… I want us to continue until the end!

The crocodile gave a light laugh, running one of nails to wipe away a tear appeared.

– Finally… I finally got it. They weren't Odin, All-Father; nor Leonidas, the proud king of Sparta. Here you are: the king I have so much sought, pursued and longed to find…

» You are the perfect queen… I feel like a kid in a candy store!

Jingū was a little flattered by that compliment, though not so much by the facial expression of slime out of snout along with tail wagging like a dog. After that, the crocodile regained his composure to continue speaking seriously.

– Still, I won't let you win.

» I won't make it so easy! To confirm my respect, pride, and admiration, not mention yours having their first victory, you'll have to defeat me. Fight against everything I have, until you manage to defeat me.

With a single blow of his hand nailed the trident back to the ground.

– Kings achieve everything for their people; the perfect queen must be able to defeat the impossible obstacle for her people and for her pride. That I'll be for you… Right now.

Of the Egyptian gods present, only a few understood what was going to happen: the Trinity of Egypt was moved, while Hathor drew fear on his face.

Sobek held out a hand in front of him, the claw of his outstretched hand.

– If you allow me, Himiko, I'll show you my own… Re-Volund.

Jingū flinched as Sobek, with a frantic cry, turned his hand towards himself to plunge claw into chest. Everyone in tiers was surprised at this, one of them being the king of Svarga Shiva.

– Sobek has buried one of claws in his chest! What does he intend to do!?

– What the hell…? – Athena paid more attention to decipher the next thing to happen.

Another of the worried people was Jingū herself, which she expressed on her face.

– S-Sobek?

– I haven't done this for a long time… – Sobek's muzzle spat out some blood – I only practiced it a couple of times. It's moment of truth.

He began to move the buried claw from side to side, opening a self-inflicted wound to draw a kind of symbol; each time a line ended, more blood gushed from his muzzle.

Hathor was so startled she clung to Khonsu's arm.

– It's Sobek's secret ability!

– What? What are you talking about, Hathor?

– You weren't there that day. This is the ability the Trinity of Egypt gave him when we defeated Seth.

Long before the first Ragnarok, Seth's coup d'etat occurred where took control of Egypt through Osiris' death. The leader Trinity went to Sobek and Hathor to defeat him, although in decisive battle Sobek was the most disadvantaged for fighting in darkness.

As a thankful gift, as well as a precautionary measure, Sobek was given the power of Ra to control solar energy. Egyptian humans in ancient times could see such relationship between deities; in last years of the Egyptian empire, they worshiped such a "fusion" of gods with a special name.

– Himiko… – the crocodile smiled, finishing drawing an eye on chest – This… is my Re-Volund.

Shortly afterwards the crocodile caught fire; the first to be consumed were his clothes, the next being skin and scales. Such a spectacle of flames spread across the arena, forcing Jingū to cover herself with the forearms of her new armor.

– Ahhh! – Heimdall ran away – Sobek has caught fire! It almost burned me again!

None of gods understood what was happening, but only 4 of them. 3 were the Trinity, all showing smiles of pride; the fourth was Hathor, who felt fear and worry.

– The power given to him by Trinity, to use Lord Ra's solar control… Sobek-Ra!

In end the fire was extinguished immediately, leaving the new figure of Sobek to emerge from a cloud of smoke:

A larger body, massive, tall and frightening; he no longer wore so many jewels since his entire body was covered by golden scales; his now golden eyes drew a new superiority, more so when taking the trident to his side, it now seemed like a small strong fork to his new appearance, and with it acquired an attack posture.

– Himiko, I present you the current King of the Sea and the Sun. If you really want my thumbs up, you'll have to beat your last hurdle on your way to perfect royalty!

At first was afraid; but squeezing her weapon and taking a deep breath allowed her to maintain resolve, as her stone necklace began to glow.

– Miss Hrist has given all to help me. In that case… I'll answer the same, and fight with everything I have!

– With everything? – Athena moved her legs with emotion – The full power of the blessed of the gods is here!

– I made mistakes in past, but thanks to you this match is my chance to redeem my failure… Now you've motivated me, I'll fight to be the queen I should be!

– Very good Himiko! I'll fight against you to fulfill my goal of being the perfect queen, but I am not willing to lose…

» May the best of us be the fifth winning king!

At that moment, both of them had a strange atmosphere of calm.

The onna bugeisha and empress of Japan who lived in failure against the crocodile god and Tyrant of the Seas who lived in a fantasy. Although they were so different in appearances, origin stories, and context where they grew up, they both shared the same feeling:

The pride of being a king.

They both jumped at same time, ready to attack their opponent as soon as weapons made the first clash. Both also shared the same conviction regarding combat:

– This will be… my victory!

The next chapter will be the end of the second round, so… Who will you support?

 #TeamJingū

 #TeamSobek

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Publication Date: 08/06/22
ASFD

Author's note: An apology for the delay, this time I was very busy with my job. But don't worry; for the time being, everything will run its course as I've been planning the chapter for 3 weeks (hopefully soon I'll be able to catch up completely).

Reminder: Chapter updated every 21 days.

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New terms

* Hydrokinesis – Power/ability to control water.