– Fury of the Nile!

– Itou Sai!

They both pounded on their weapons with all might; a new motivation rose within their bodies especially from that special conversation they had.

– The fighters have combined perfectly in a violent exchange! – Heimdall exclaimed from his place in divine tiers – From this duel only one will come out alive!

 Athena almost jumped with excitement.

– Amazing!

Both sides of tiers, humans and gods, joined each other to support their fighter representative, exclaiming almost to the point of destroying their vocal chords.

On the one hand, humanity put aside all the mockery it had made before to now focus on it:

– Come on Jingū! You can!

– Win for humanity, for us!

– We ask you! Win!

Sasaki, standing up, exclaimed very euphorically with hands in the air.

– You can Jingū!

– Mom! – Oujin with a big smile on face cried and shouted on his feet – Please win mom!

– Lord Ojin! You'll fall!

In same way, her entire family shouted and gave a tiering ovation: her parents, teacher, Hibiko, Nakahiko. On other hand, the deities also showed great support in the deity represented them:

– Come on, Sobek! You can win!

– Don't throw away the pride of Egypt and lord Anubis!

– Win in name of Poseidon!

– G-O-G! G-O-G! G-O-G! G-O-G!

They too were euphoric and excited; even the Trinity of Egypt had risen to their feet to watch this end of the fight.

The only Egyptian who didn't speak or comment was Anubis himself, who from a high balcony and far from spectators watched the combat: arms crossed, eyes fixed and back leaning against the threshold. Such a fight for a moment reminded of his duel against Qin Shi Huang, causing him to sigh.

– May the best win.

On balcony of Hathor and Khonsu, the goddess was so sore in feeling she clenched her clasped hands tightly whispering to herself.

– Forgive me Sobek for not having given you an answer before… Please don't lose, I want… I want you to come back!

Tears fell from her eyes as Khonsu screamed with euphoria and excitement.

– You can, fetishist! This is what you wanted to be there for, right?! Win this match!

– Come on, my Sobek!

The blows between the two became stronger and faster, so the weapons constantly clashed on bodies of their rival, although the gold scales and the samurai armor didn't allow relevant damage to be done.

Cuts arose and drops of blood flew from side to side; nothing they couldn't handle at this point.

The pair of little Valkyrie sisters leaped happily from the box, jumping up and down from their seats to run from side to side or in circles.

– Come on, Jingū!

– You're the best swordsman we have ever met!

– Only below Sasaki!

– Hey! – Lifthrasir was annoyed at those words – If she wins this fight, she'll be much better than Sasaki!

– Impossible! – With surprise, Lif tried to refute the least of her – No one can be superior to the unrivaled one under the heavens! The name itself says so!

– Of course she'll be superior! The blessed of the gods, the first woman to kill a god, and not just anyone but the second Poseidon!

– But Sasaki was the first to get those titles! The first human to kill a god, and the loser who killed the first Poseidon!

– Jingū Kougou will be a better swordsman than Sasaki!

– Nope! Sasaki Kojiro is and always will be the best!

– Ahhh!

Geir, from the corridor where she was, looked at the combat arena with eyes focused on the movements between the two rivals.

– Come on Jingū! – she raised both fists in air – Win this match! Win the fight, in the name… Of humanity!

Both collided their weapons to impose force between them; after having resisted for a few moments, each one separated, going to side of what was left of the platform.

– Okinaga Himiko… – Sobek-Ra smiled sarcastically – I can't believe you've been so arrogant!

– Huh!?

– From the beginning you had that strength, ability and attitude to finish the fight, but you resigned yourself! All those blessings to defeat me, and until now you decide to show them!

Jingū was surprised at crocodile; she decided to answer him with a happy smile.

– Now I want to fight seriously! I want… I want… I want to continue fighting with you, no matter how much! – The blush of emotion was very visible through her loose hair and the blood that decorated her face – I would've liked to have met you before this!

Sobek-Ra laughed a little.

– I can imagine it. Hitting you with a wooden stick to make you a worthy empress, so much we missed! The only thing we were able to share is these weapons and this fight!

– Let's continue, please!

– If you ask, gladly!

Both returned to engage in a one-on-one duel; ir seemed to go on and on and on…

Sobek-Ra swung his trident into the Fury of the Nile's hammering attacks charged new strength and speed from his transformation, but he didn't deliver the expected result; therefore after propelling himself a couple of steps back he jumped into the air.

From the posture he acquired with weapon, the woman identified the new attack he was going to carry out:

– Amphitrite! – suddenly the thrusts began to rain in various directions.

Jingū tightened grip on her sword to prepare herself; this time she wouldn't run away or give up.

« Let's go! We can do it! » both of Hrist's voices echoed in her head.

With such words the woman was able to focus on her task:

She fixed both eyes on Amphitrite, using her mind to remember the blows the crocodile had used since the start of fight; every word, every smile, every attack, every blow. In addition, she began to dig deeper, delving into Hrist's memories she herself allowed to see to undertier the Sasaki Kojiro vs. Poseidon fight from a thousand years ago.

Her mind worked at a speed she, by the Volund, could never have achieved; studied and analyzed everything involuntarily and very quickly until, without realizing it…

She made it.

With a flick of her purple-shimmering sword, she moved the weapon finely and delicately to counter one of Sobek-Ra's thrusts… before they touched her.

– Ehhh!? – Heimdall was surprised to realize – Jingū… she is… She's predicting the strikes of the trident…! She's predicting the attacks of the second Poseidon!

When heard that, a big smile spread across Sasaki's face.

– She did it! She's using Senju Musou!

Sobek-Ra also saw what Jingū was doing, but it was no hindrance to him.

– This isn't everything! – he changed hands the trident to launch a next attack – Quione-Tiro-Demeter!

The blows descended in line straight to Jingū's body; on other hand, the woman stood still and she tightened grip on sword with both hands. Sobek-Ra was surprised but didn't give up.

Suddenly, when the horizontal blows were going to explode on the woman, she was the next to act.

– Mimana!

Raising the sword above her head to hit the crocodile's thrusts, Jingū began to move in rhythm with the waves of rent as… as if she were in a dance to perfectly counter all of the crocodile's attacks.

Both Sobek-Ra and Heimdall were quite surprised to notice Jingū's new abilities.

– Awesome! Jingū Kougou uses a new power we haven't seen from her until now!

Athena smiled excitedly and with clear preference to her.

– There's the "Blessed of the gods" – after stuck her tongue out at Sobek-Ra – I hate you, for taking an excellent fighter from me!

Ares was again surprised by the inconspicuous behavior of his younger sister; he knew what she was capable of, but was always a surprise.

Sobek-Ra went straight to the ground falling to attack again head-on with Amphitrite, which was quickly blocked and countered by Jingū's Mimana; the fight had a new tint hadn't been seen until that moment.

The crocodile decided to stop thrusting to exhaust the trident a bit while stretching it towards his back; Jingū, using the Senju Musou was able to foresee what the crocodile was going to do.

« I can… I can see it! I can already see it! » inside herself the woman was as excited as a maiden.

– Sobek's Whip!

The whip of water swept across the arena in an instant, faster than the previous blow; however thanks to Jingū's premonition was able to dodge it without problems.

The next whip seemed like it would fall squarely on her; the time difference between both attacks was short, enough so Jingū wasn't able to dodge it. Everything seemed was going to receive it fully, although…

Who said she wanted to dodge it?

When Jingū noticed the crocodile's new surprise attack, she had no choice but to position herself to use the sword in attack at same time as emotions made the divine rocks on her neck glow brighter.

– Jewels of Gods!

The purple-shining sword easily cut through the water, causing it to explode as if under pressure to scatter onto the arena. Sobek-Ra and viewers were quite surprised.

– Again, Jingū Kougou cuts through the water as if it were paper!

– Cool! – The Japanese smiled excitedly, speaking to her armor and sword – Thank you for that!

« Don't thank us… » Hrist 'who trembles with anger' replied with pride « You did that! »

– … Ehh!?

Sobek-Ra didnt wait long.

« It seems she's talking to her Valkyrie; the same one killed Poseidon… It becomes more fun! »

– Amphitrite! – again the rain of frontal horizontal thrusts made an appearance before the woman; she reacted a bit out of time, which caused her to take some direct hits shattered the armor on her body.

Inside herself the woman felt the Valkyrie's pain from such injuries, but she wasn't willing to doubt. Not again.

– R-Rain of Swallows!

The woman began swinging her sword to repel the attacks, from side to side in what seemed like a makeshift defense.

But it wasn't like that; Sasaki could see in her movements it wasn't something improvised, but rather harmonic blows of 2 of his attacks: Tsubame Gaeshi and Ganryu in offense and defense.

Sobek-Ra tried a water whip again in the exchange, which didn't go as he expected as Jingū already knew how to counter it. His attacks from before were no longer giving the same result with the new Jingū.

« I have to use 'that" power » that was his conclusion.

He stopped moving the trident to direct the points to the ground; gave a sudden jump, rising several meters above the arena, and threw one of hands into the air. Hathor was very surprised, and scared too, when recognized what was going to do.

– S-Sobek--!

– Ra's Chariot!

A beam of light descended from sun, completely enveloping the crocodile's raised hand as well as its golden scales, causing a glow in the arena blinded Jingū a little; with that hand went on to take the trident, where transferred all charge of solar energy, and then proceeded to attack again.

– Amphitrite!

Such an attack was the same as previous ones so Jingū was ready to dodge it and counterattack it without problems. But as soon as the first thrust landed, she could see it was a different technique:

Each lunge was more like a beam of light, fast and almost impossible to dodge, and its impact on arena was similar to dropping a very hot object: it left a hole filled with steam, and when it came into contact with the clear water it bubbled.

The human noticed it in time, but there was nothing to do; with her Mimana's new technique tried to dodge the attacks left and right, but they were too fast, the light blinded the entire battlefield, and every time they touched her it caused a burn made her lose concentration.

She was able to foresee most of her thrusts anyway, though a few opened burns on her skin, the wounds already had and on Hrist's armor, dealing significant damage. The energy he charged into the trident having run out, Sobek-Ra let go of the attack and landed on feet in arena with downcast eyes.

– Sobek has used the power of the sun to attack! – Heimdall exclaimed with fear and surprise – Just as he had said: we have before us the ruler of the Seas and the Sun!

In tiers the gods were shocked and thrilled at Sobek-Ra's new superiority, especially the Egyptian side.

– Magnificent! – Isis exclaimed excitedly – ​​Seeing the power of Ra in action again… I love it!

– This clearly demonstrates our divine strength – Osiris commented with great arrogance – The power of Egypt, and of our new Poseidon.

– 1000 years ago Zeus bragged with his sons and brothers but… – Horus smiled sideways – Now it's our turn to come out.

In arena Jingū was checking her burn wounds, trying to close them however could but it was difficult.

« Let's be careful Himiko! » spoke Hrist 'who trembles with fear' with a wounded countenance « We came out badly for having met him head-on. »

« Who would think of receiving an attack like that!? » complained Hrist 'who trembles with anger' with annoyance.

« Please forgive me! » answered Jingū sadly « I-I got carried away by the emotion… I won't do it anymore! »

As soon as Jingū looked up to continue the fight realized something: since had descended from the air, Sobek-Ra hadn't moved from his position. He still stood with his head down, his eyes downcast, and no sign of moving again.

That worried her a lot, and approached taking a few steps although scandal of public.

– Sobek…? Are you okay?

– Finish her, you fetishist fool! – Khonsu exclaimed with clenched fists – You already won the fight!

– No! It isn't true!

Instead, the cow goddess covered her face with both hands in a bitter expression; this quite surprised Khonsu.

– What do you say? Are you… crying?

– Sobek, enough! – Hathor exclaimed sadly, looking up at arena – Don't use that power anymore!

– Huh!? What are you talking about!?

– Sobek?

The Japanese got a little closer to crocodile with her guard down, but she didn't use what to move anymore to notice.

The crocodile raised its head with a… shriek of pain, as blood spurted from its snout and nose.

Not to mention the following: his entire golden body shattered from head to toe, dropping several broken golden scales to the ground as well as shooting out other spurts of blood painted the ground like a broken pressure valve. The woman was even more scared to see so much destruction on Sobek's body, and concern caused her to put both hands to mouth.

– S-Sobek!

– Ehhh…!? Sobek-Ra has… exploded! After that attack with solar power, the body of Egypt Poseidon has been broken!

The Egyptian Trinity Gods, the Greeks watching the fight, the little Valkyries who stopped their discussion to pay attention; everyone in the stadium was quite shocked at such a scenario.

Only one person knew what happened: Hathor.

– If he keeps using Ra-sama's power, Sobek… he's going to die!

– What are you talking about!?

– Being a cold-blooded crocodile god, he isn't able to produce heat on his own, so must rest under the sun all time.

– Yes, I know that, but what does that have to do with anything?

– That form of Sobek-Ra allows him to use Ra's solar abilities but, to control the Sun, his body must produce enough heat of its own so as not to burn in the attempt;

» But being cold-blooded, his body cannot and shouldn't do it; it's a contradiction in his nature shocks him resulting in… many internal injuries.

» The Trinity gave him that power to be able to be productive without the need of the Sun, and one day he began to test it to see if he could use fire to attack… I still remember how he fell to the ground screaming in pain from being torn inside!

» He… – Hathor covered her face in sadness – He'll die in a very horrible way if continues using that power!

Khonsu was quite confused and disturbed, but… why had he never told her?

– Shit…! – Sobek-Ra fell to knees, bringing a hand to his throat to let out the blood wanted to drown him – I had… Forgot how much it hurts… No wonder I promised not to use it too much…

The Japanese woman wanted to come over to help him.

– Y-Your body…

– You worry about me…? Really? – to lessen the pain Sobek-Ra laughed a little – Typical of you.

» As you can see, this solar power is more than my body can bear; I'm very resistant to your sword and armor, but I can't deal with this internal damage… I might die if I keep doing this.

The crocodile smiled sideways feeling a new emotion.

– Who fucking cares! Let's keep fighting!

But the woman stood motionless, her expression worried, her hands clenching on the sword.

« Himiko! What are you doing!? »

– Why… Why do you use it…?

Sobek-Ra only managed to sigh in annoyance, to raise the trident and point it at her.

– Why do you ask that? The answer is obvious! After a lifetime of research, I'm facing the woman who has earned the title of perfect queen; to be your last step, I'll face you and defeat you with everything I have and everything I am, even if it costs me my life…

» Whether I live and win, or lose and die, I would never forgive myself for fighting the perfect queen without giving it my all!

Jingū smiled excited to hear those words.

– I hope you don't hold back either! – Sobek-Ra jumped at the woman – I won't forgive you if decides to play with me instead of giving your life for royalty!

– Y-Yes, Sobek!

Both approached each other clashing the edge of their weapons to continue their confrontation.

After a few moments, Sobek-Ra's Pharaoh's Hand managed to hit Jingū directly, sending her falling backwards to the ground, and so the crocodile opted for another special attack with trident.

« My last test… The final attack the Tyrant of the Seas! »

He jumped into air, and being on highest point of it, took the trident by its end to point at the woman; Hrist and Senju Musou were able to foresee the attack the Egyptian deity was going to carry out.

« Stand up Himiko! »

– Medusa-Alope-Demeter!

A dome of tridents accompanied by residual shadows of the golden crocodile formed a radiant golden light lit up the battlefield and Elysian Fields stadium, before concentrating in an endless and infinite barrage of attacks all directed at Jingū Kougou.

The human clung the sword with right hand, clenching left fist to use the armor as a shield, and took the rain in full:

The thrusts rained down from all directions, destroying everything in path and burning through speed as well as Sobek-Ra's solar ability, as the woman swung sword and armor from side to side to defend, counterattack, dodge…

Survive.

– Sobek-Ra is using Poseidon's greatest attack: the infinite dome of tridents similar to the global flood in the days of Noah!

Sasaki felt a dejavu in mind; he knew what it was like to face such an attack with desperation, but now against a crocodile emanated light and fire it would probably be much more difficult.

The little Valkyries were amazed by the golden light from the dome, at same time they were scared.

– Poseidon's final attack!

– The dome of tridents! And now from Sobek, with a lot of resistance in his body and being able to… draw fire from his hands!

– It means… this attack is worse than Poseidon's!

The countenance of both girls fell rapidly.

– So… Does it mean Jingū is going to…?

Lif was the first to imagine what would happen thanks to what Sasaki had "taught" them recently, but…

Rose in chair and, spreading her palms to mouth, let out an exclamation to the fighting arena:

– You can Jingū! The Empress of Japan cannot lose!

The minor quickly imitated her with same expression.

– Jingū! Jingū! Jingū!

Immersed in so many tridents, Jingū used the moves had in mind; the ones had learned from Sasaki, the ones had experienced in life, and many other invented ones she made gathering in head what she knew.

The armor served her well enough to cushion the blows couldn't respond to, although was beginning to crack little by little as received more and more attacks; inside mind she felt guilty for allowing Hrist to have to receive all those thrusts, however her Valkyrie's attitude wasn't the same:

« Come on Himiko! Don't give up! » The overlapping voices of both encouraged him.

« No… Not yet! »

« Be careful to your right! »

Turned to that direction in addition to a jump, which allowed to dodge a large number of tridents fell on that place until it was burned.

« T-Thank you, girls…! »

« No problem! »

The thrusts continued to fall, each time increasing in strength and speed so the Japanese was no longer able to keep up with the deity.

But that wasn't the real case; the woman was losing her strength, mind was getting tired, and body was about to give up. The woman was reaching her last limits.

« This is… this is too much… » her mind was starting to block with that thought « I can't… No matter how far I go, I can't… get to his bottom… »

Those words would've been more than enough to end her; it would block her self-esteem and make her fall, either by herself or by Sobek-Ra piercing her with his weapon once and for all.

But… No. Not yet.

Her eyes could visualize and remember the night before; that was enough to give her more breath and get up again. A little more strength to hold on a little longer…

« No… I can't fall yet! Not only because Sobek trusts me but… Because also… I promised master Sasaki… I promised him! »

– Alright. Let's start.

In a small dojo, Sasaki and Jingū were face to face; they bowed in greeting, and proceeded to clash their weapons which were wooden sticks: their duel consisted of Sasaki attacking while she defended.

After almost 2 minutes of hitting, Sasaki hit Jingū's sword in such a way it flew from her hands.

– A-Ahh! – the woman fell backwards to ground.

She began to crawl backwards as Sasaki closed in to attack; as soon as touched her back, the woman didn't hesitate to raise palms out in front.

– I give up! I give up!

Sasaki stopped in tracks with sword raised; something in his eyes said he couldn't believe what was seeing.

But it was just a false expression; after breathing a little rough, he let out a laugh and dropped his sword to ground.

– Haha… Thanks for that! I was already very tired!

– Yes, yes… – the woman sat down and ran her hand through slightly damp hair – Can we… rest for a moment…?

– No problem.

That was one of many duels they had for hours; Jingū got Sasaki to stay with her for much of the night to train as best they could, since she… looked up to him for title as the swordsman who killed Poseidon. Being a sword wielder as well, she wanted to learn as much as could for her fight.

Sasaki delicately took Jingū's hands to lift her up, then picked up the wooden swords.

– How about if we take… an hour?

– Huh!? – Jingū was surprised by the number – Wouldn't it be better just 10 minutes?

– So few? – Sasaki was even more surprised– Okay. If you say so.

– Yes master!

– You can leave the formalities – Sasaki tried to use clothes to dry himself but was impossible – I had already told you, Majesty.

– Until you also leave them with me.

– You know it can't be done. You are an empress, the queen of our nation, while I… I think I would at best be left as a peasant.

– And I do it because you were the first winner in Ragnarok, while I--!

The woman stopped realizing what was going to say; anyway said it out loud to make herself more aware of that reality.

– While I… I'm not sure… what will happen in my fight.

Sasaki was silent; he wanted to tell her something about to change mind, but even himself had that doubt for every second shared the arena with Poseidon.

He could only reach out his hand to touch the woman's shoulder.

– We'll do everything possible to make your future a victory.

Jingū only managed to smile in response.

A small period of time opened up where Sasaki realized his wet clothes couldn't dry him, besides… it was same situation with Jingū, only her figure was transparent behind wet white clothes.

That made the swordsman a little nervous, who averted his gaze after noticing.

– I-I'm going to take a shower. I think you should do the same.

– But I… – Jingū approached with clenched fists – We must continue training, to have victory.

– We have already worked hard! A longer break wouldn't hurt.

– No, we have to continue – Jingū insisted as she got closer to Sasaki – We only have a few night hours! We must continue no matter the--!

– There is no need to rush, there are many hours. Also… – because of the short distance Sasaki began to stutter – W-We should… change the clothes… for more comfort, D-Don't you think?

At first she didn't understand, but when took a quick look at herself, Jingū realized what was talking about; her face turned red for that fact.

– Yes, yes, yes! You're right! I'll go right now so as not waste time! – In an instant got nervous and went to one of bathrooms located on edge of the dojo.

She didn't even wait for a response from Sasaki; entered the room, closed the door, and let out her embarrassment on face now looked like a burning cherry. Her face hit the wood of door, intentionally to show her feelings.

– It can't be, I'm a… idiot! – whispered to herself, almost about to scream – How could I… do something so embarrassing!?

Both hands covered her face as shook it from side to side.

– How could I be so stupid!? I'm already married with a child! I'm not young enough to do such childish things!

Took advantage of the moment to stay that way; once cleared her mind, began to doubt and what had been going through in those hours.

– I still… I still have a lot to learn. I haven't learned master Sasaki's skills yet; much less his ability to analyze and predict…

She turned to clock hung on the wall; realizing the time, a heavy sigh escaped her lips.

– It's just a few minutes until it's 2 AM. 10 hours to start the second Ragnarok… And I'm not ready yet.

She ended up sitting on the floor, hugging both legs in front and hiding her face between knees.

– I don't want to die. I'm not ready yet, but… every second I feel closer to death.

Preferred to remain silent for a long time, thinking about the possibilities everything was going to turn out well for her to be well, and even her head began to ache from thinking so much.

That's why she gave one last exhausting breath, which caused to get up from the ground.

– Even if you don't want to, master Sasaki is right. I must rest.

She turned on the faucet in tub in front of her to fill it with hot water, while undoing her hairdo and removing the dirty clothes. As soon as it finished filling up, Jingū got into the water: could feel how the temperature was ideal to calm muscles, bones and skin, as well as making feel very relaxed.

– This feels… very good… – stood still to feel more of that joy envelop her body; but mind immediately refused – N-No! I have to finish as soon as possible to get back to training. After this shower, no more breaks; in 10 hours I must learn 1400 years of experience… You can do it!

Very quickly the woman proceeded to wash her body removing all sweat and dirt she had; many times her body refused due to tiredness, forcing to rest for a few seconds, but mind made an effort to stay alert.

In the end achieved her goal; im an almost jump got out of tub, took towels to dry body completely, and even repeated the process to make sure; looked in the same closet and found many clothes she used to get dressed.

After dressing very quickly, proceeded to pick up her hair and finish drying it while looked at herself in the mirror.

– That was… The fastest bath I've ever done! – A funny idea came to her mind that made her laugh a little – Could I use it against my opponent?

Turned to the clock, and her happiness faded into panic: it was a few minutes past 3 AM.

– Can't be! I lost more than an hour!

She stormed out of the bathroom, arranging slightly wet hair and finishing adjusting her clothes.

– I'm done master! We can continue--!

But what found she didn't expect: Sasaki sitting in center of the dojo in front of a table full of plates of food gave off light steam.

The woman was too surprised.

– … What? What is this?

– It's dinner! – Sasaki replied sarcastically – Rather, the midnight snack.

Jingū felt terrified within herself.

– B-But… We have 9 hours left to train… I'm ready, so we must train--

– Don't worry! – the swordsman smiled to calm her – You're right; we have 9 hours left. Enough time to learn more techniques.

» In addition, it's important to have breaks, much more we only have one night to train; otherwise you might lose strength in your fight, and that would be worse.

The woman hadn't thought of that.

« He's right. If I faint in my combat… All this effort would be in vain. » her lips twitched slightly. « I want… I need to train, and I know I have to, but… but… I haven't had a bite to eat in hours! »

A silent stomach growl made her reflect and embarrass herself; taking a few quick steps took a seat in front of the table across from Sasaki, which made the swordsman happy.

« Never mind the training! I want to eat! »

– Very well! Thanks for the food!

They both started the small dinner with a little of the same: pieces of meat, rice, a pot of tea, vegetables, and some snacks. When the woman tasted the meat, the color returned to her face and smiled with pleasure.

– This is delicious!

– Is right! – Sasaki replied taking rice – When I finished I went out for a walk, and I found a buffet made by the dwarfs, lady Geir, and some of us like Achilles and King Leonidas. I got there just in time to grab some before it ran out.

– I imagine! Since we left Valhalla we haven't eaten anything.

– Neither do I. Back in Valhalla, the Valkyrie ladies are strict about food.

– Really? Why?

– It's not because they're evil or anything; They say take care of us to keep us from ending up as human meatballs rolling around in Valhalla.

That comment caused Jingū to laugh out loud.

– That… sounds funny! I can hardly imagine it!

Sasaki laughed with her too; after it they talked a little about other things, especially about their earthly lives. During that time Sasaki could see she hadn't eaten any rice which intrigued him a bit.

– Excuse me… You don't like rice?

– Huh?

– I say this because you haven't touched it.

– No, is not that! It's just… – the woman calmly took some of her tea – In fact, it has to do with my life before I became queen.

– Really? – Sasaki was quite interested.

– As I told you, before being queen she was a country girl. My father grew rice, although in his time it was a long shot. But… now I can see what a safe bet was…

» And… What… what did you do before being the unrivaled one under the heavens?

Sasaki scratched his head with a laugh.

– It's funny, because… I didn't do anything different.

– Really? Your whole life were a swordsman?

– That's right. First it was with my father, then in master Toda Seigen's dojo, and then I started my way in Japan… losing and losing against everyone to be my best version.

« You know? Defeat was always my special ability; thanks to that I was able to learn to become the man I'm now, but… everything was doing what I loved: being a swordsman.

– So, just like me, you've always been a swordsman. Although I never became a teacher like you and… I never felt such devotion to the sword.

– That depends on each person; there are those who train it for a very different objective, but there are others like me who the sword is the objective.

Such words encouraged the woman; she drank more tea, colored cheeks with pride, and rose from seat.

– Then I won't let you down.

– Huh?

– I promise… – Jingū nodded with respect – I promise I'll train the sword, perfect my technique, and fight to death, to keep your pride and devotion to sword high! I'm going to fight… In name of all swordsmen like you so that you…! You can be proud of me!

Sasaki was surprised for a few moments; but after he let out a carefree smile.

– Doesn't have to! If your target isn't the sword, I won't force you to do so. Just… Just fight for us humans on your turn.

– B-But master…

– Better take a seat and taste the rice! Although you grew up planting it, I can assure you it'll be worth tasting the years of difference between his experience and this dish.

She ended up nodding with cheeks full of emotion.

– If you say so…!

She sat down again and took some from her plate; as soon as tasted it, she got a huge surprise was drawn in her smile and in eyes brighter than normal, proving her teacher was right.

« He… my master Sasaki… won his fight in first Ragnarok not only because of his training but because of his love for the sword…

» And during this night, he transmitted all that to me: he cared for me, trained me how could, taught me his special techniques; he did all that… Because of his love and devotion to the sword…

» Besides, I made him a promise… I promised him that, for the love of the sword, I would fight until I won! He trained me so hard not for me to give up, but for his dreams and longings! I won't do it…!

» I won't be the fool to destroy that love! »

Mind drained of emotion, she clenched her left hand and fisted it at an approaching residual trident.

« I cannot reach his depth because I'm a superficial woman, not like my master… Then I'll bring him from bottom to my surface! »

Moments before the impact she opened her hand and received the trident fully; the tip of it stabbed into it and pierced through her hand. Although caused both her and Hrist terrible pain, it allowed her to close hand and catch it.

Thus, the dome of residual golden images vanished in a second, leaving Sobek-Ra inches from the woman, holding the trident that pierced her hand.

She looked up with new determination.

– I won't lose! I won't break the promise I made to Sasaki Kojiro!

That greatly surprised the Japanese onlooker, so much so that almost fell backwards to the ground if not for Oujin's intervention.

– M-Mister Sasaki!?

– He did everything for me to have this opportunity in Ragnarok; he did this for the pride and devotion of being a swordsman, for the dreams of many generations, and so that… he could win…

» A-As the perfect queen you want me to be, I can't lose in the name of that! I can't break my promise to make him proud of me!

– Amazing Himiko; you have many reasons to win, just like me!

With a quick movement the crocodile withdrew the trident from Jingū's hand to continue attacking; this time he preferred to go straight ahead.

– I won't lose either, especially since my brothers are watching me!

That dialogue surprised both the gods and Jingū; instead, Hathor and Khonsu were moved.

– I won't lose because I don't want them to cry… I promised their only tears would be for my victory!

– What!? Will you fight in the second round!?

– Aren't you kidding!?

– Hey; don't fuck around, why can't you believe it?

– Because it's impossible to believe!

Hathor and Khonsu were in the hall where Sobek resided for Ragnarok; knowing his title, Zeus saw to the Egyptian received the comforts and luxuries the G-O-G should have.

Sobek was lying on a double or perhaps larger bed, while Hathor and Khonsu stood to the side watching and arguing with him.

– It's obvious we didn't expect you to be the second! – Khonsu exclaimed in surprise– Being you the G-O-G, maybe would quote yourself at another price, although I see you only have fetishes in your head.

– I'm not a fetishist!

– I'm sure it was lady Isis's business. – exclaimed the cow with indignation – She forced you!

– Why so angry? I'll just go out and fight; not it was a sin.

– It isn't indignation; at least I don't feel that way – Khonsu was the first to explain – It's just… I remember yesterday you spoke with us and told us your turn would be later.

– It's true; it was a sudden change. The first options were the daughter of Zeus, Athena, and they even thought of… Mrs. Nut.

Such a name sent a chill down the sword of the other 2 gods.

– Did they seriously think of her? What made them change minds?

– Athena and lord Thor said the Ancient Ones would come out later. As they was about to select Athena… – Sobek glanced at Hathor – Isis just decided it was a good idea to show off.

– What did they say to convince them?

– I really didn't pay attention; they only spoke of the greatness of Anubis in first Ragnarok, and need to avenge Poseidon. A long monologue ridiculed the 40 words they dedicated to me.

– I can imagine – the falcon god sighed annoyed – Always flattering Anubis.

– Anyway, I liked the idea! Fight after seeing that bloodthirsty king of Aztlan; carrying the title of Poseidon to win… It's an honor excites me!

– No! You're an Idiot!

At that point the cow deity was already crying while emitting a dark aura; without waiting for a response from the crocodile, she turned around and ran to the exit.

– Khonsu…! – Sobek suddenly got up from the bed – Give me my trident!

– W-What do you say…!

The falcon took the weapon with both hands due to the weight of it, taking a surprise when Sobek was able to load it with one hand.

Sobek took aim and in a heartbeat hurled the weapon at Hathor; the spaces between the points hit exactly one arm of Hathor, so the cow would fall to the ground, the trident would stick, and she wouldn't have a single wound.

An amazing shot but quite dangerous.

– I gave you! – the crocodile smiled, although Khonsu's face was petrified.

– … Y-You almost… killed her…

Sobek reached the goddess; retrieved the pitchfork from ground and reached down to help her up from it, giving an innocent smile.

– Are you all right dear--?

– Damn double idiot!

Hathor got up to punch Sobek with a closed fist, hard enough to knock the crocodile's teeth out. That surprised Khonsu, who also proceeded to burst into a derisive laugh.

– So fun!

The crocodile rubbed his snout to ease the pain, with the cow goddess truly furious with him.

– That's for throwing your trident at my arm! You could have killed me!

– Everything… Everything was calculated – Sobek laughed a little.

Hathor didn't wait any longer and slapped Sobek; in strength it was nothing compared to the blow from a while ago, but all the feelings she had were impregnated.

– And that?

– For accepting the whims of lady Isis and Trinity without thinking.

– What do you say? Of course I thought--

– I know you, Sobek, god of Nile, Poseidon of Egypt, and I don't know what other fucking titles! I can bet you were offered something like fighting in any arena you wanted or fulfilling your weird fetishes, all as long as you fight--

The sound of heavy machinery outside silenced the crocodile, proving Hathor was right.

– I-I just want to said…

But cow goddess pushed Sobek's arms away to… hug him, letting more of her tears fall onto his left shoulder.

– This because… because of your lack of common sense! You're going to fight in second round without even knowing if your future wife will like it! I can see you'll be the worst husband in the world!

Sobek was stunned at this, while Khonsu sighed in annoyance.

– I'm tired of your soap opera! Divorce or have children, but let it be now!

– Do you… really… want to marry me?

Sobek was quiet, which Hathor could feel in arms.

– Of course I want to! That time of contest in Greece… it was the first time I told you, and since then I've been serious.

Sobek could only smile excitedly.

He parted from the goddess, to use his hands to wipe the deity's cheeks; then gave her a sharp smile.

– Hathor, stop crying. Don't waste your tears.

– Huh? What…?

– Now I know I have a beautiful wife waiting for me, I'll do my best; everything to return to your side, take your hand, and receive your tears only behind your wedding veil.

» Do not waste them, you will need them at the wedding! Lots of them!

– Me what? Am I an ornament or what?

Sobek and Hathor laughed at Khonsu's comment.

– Don't worry brother. You should also save your tears…

– Who said I want to cry?

– Save for when you were my best man and at the bachelor party, obligatorily done by you!

– … I'll take it, although it offends me.

– Now, come here both!

Sobek didn't wait and hugged Hathor around her waist, to carry her in arms and start the journey back to bed. Once there, with a delicate movement, Sobek left the goddess on one side, and then he lay down in the center, and making a space on the other side he patted the blankets directed at Khonsu.

– You too come!

– If you insist…!

Khonsu jumped to his designated spot, leaving Hathor and Khonsu on the shores, enclosing Sobek; the crocodile reached out to take them both by the shoulders, and began a little speech.

– Here we are, the 3 of us together again! It feels very nostalgic; remember our days as teenagers doing silly things. Parties, drugs, and one or another… weird fetish.

– Ha! You said it!

– And now we're here, minutes away from fighting in this Ragnarok… That's why I want to ask you something.

Sobek looked at them both, giving each their due.

– I want you to go see the fight, but away from that stupid Trinity who only thinks of victory for ego. I want the both to watch this fight and support me… I want the support of the people I really care about, and not all those spectators who praise me for the titles.

» I want my brothers and best friends with me until the end.

Hathor clenched her fist against Sobek's chest, while Khonsu had his arms across stomach.

– A second thing, which is more serious. I don't want you to cry a lot; since if you're watching me… You shouldn't worry, I'll do my best to win! And once I get back to you… We can cry all we want, for our victory!

– Count on that! – Khonsu raised one of his thumbs – I'll be watching you, waiting for the best moment to yell "fetishist" at you!

– I love your attitude!

The crocodile turned to Hathor, his expression warming.

– You too, honey, will you be watching me?

The cow goddess shook her head.

– Don't expect me not to cry if something bad happens to you. But… I'm going to support you and wait for you in the tiers!

– Very well!

Sobek didn't hesitate to stretch out his arms more to reach to embrace both of them; such a moment was of great satisfaction, happiness and joy for the crocodile, as well as for Khonsu who reciprocated and Hathor who preferred to stretch out his hands to touch his beloved one.

The moment the second Egyptian Trinity had shortly before the second round of Ragnarok…

– Fury of the Nile!

Sobek-Ra proceeded to use his hammer blows to attack Jingū head-on; with his new physical strength such blows generated a lot of damage in arena, which caused Jingū to be on the defensive.

– Just as you have a list of reasons to keep fighting, I have my own one! I also have people waiting for me behind those doors!

His thrusts followed at an impressive rate, destroying the arena greatly and also causing waves of water to hit Jingū.

– You already had the family now supports you; parents, husband, teachers…! Instead, I have a family to raise: a woman to love and a brother to share with!

Sobek-Ra made a horizontal strike with all might; Jingū put both arms up to protect herself, but received him squarely as if had been hit by a hammer.

– Everyone here awaits my victory… Egypt, in name of Anubis for first Ragnarok! Greece, in name of the title entrusted to me to be the second Poseidon! And all the pantheons present here, who see in me the G-O-G: the definition of divinity!

Having created distance from Jingū, Sobek-Ra propelled himself with legs to get closer again, now opting for hand to attack.

– The royalty I love doesn't allow me to lose: a real king never loses!

His fist engulfed in flames which unloaded in a downward strike on Jingū who was on her back on the ground.

– Pharaoh's Hand!

The woman chose to roll on the platform to avoid the attack: the solar claws hit the ground squarely generating a thermal explosion, sending both opponents flying and sinking into water of arena.

– The arena is destroyed! – Heimdall had to take cover to avoid rocks and flames arose.

Hathor, Khonsu; Nakahiko, Oujin. Everyone worried about the new scenario.

Moments later the glow disappeared leaving in its place a cloud of dust which, in turn, revealed the deplorable state in which the combat arena had ended.

 But…

– The arena is in pieces, and… None of the fighters are anywhere to be seen.

All the spectators fell silent.

A few moments later, the waters on the eastern side began to shake low, so the first of the opponents emerged from it: Jingū Kougou.

– Mom…! – Oujin put both hands to his face.

– Our daughter… she's fine! – Hime and Nosukune smiled at same time.

Sasaki smiled softly as crossed his arms; he felt quite proud about it. On the other hand, humanity joined in acclamations of victory and celebration for the woman.

Jingū swam as best she could to the platform, to stand on what little remained of the rocky ground.

As soon as got out of the water was possible to see how she had been left from the attack: the armor on her left side looked singed but whole, and her body was full of blood, most of which was hers. The hair was messy, face wet and stained red, although despite everything she kept holding the sword.

The woman took a deep breath, seeing the astonished expressions of the gods on stage.

Did it mean… she had won?

A few moments later some sort of water bullet flew into air from the western side of arena, landing hard on the rocky and shattered ground on that side of the platform.

It was Sobek-Ra; could be seen when dropped the water had covered himself with. With his appearance the gods became excited again.

– My love…! – Hathor was moved by such an appearance, while Khonsu decided to shout with all might:

– Yeah, fetishist!

The crocodile took several deep breaths to catch breath at his physical state:

The hand had used for his attack was no longer gold but black and perhaps still usable; the scales on whole body more cracked, blood dripped everywhere, and with other hand continued to squeeze the trident.

The tiers screamed with excitement as Heimdall announced the continuation of fight, but…

They both paid no attention to their surroundings; the world disappeared to leave them alone. Sobek-Ra gave a laugh.

– You're still alive Himiko. You impress me.

Jingū smiled proudly, letting herself go a bit.

– Isn't it obvious? After all… you're talking with your favorite queen.

They both laughed a little; the woman raised both hands to tighten the control of the sword and draw a gleam of emotion in her eyes.

– Thank you for staying alive! I want… I still want to fight you… I want to stay with you, Sobek! Let's not finish yet, please!

The crocodile was a little surprised, seeing in her the agreement of himself as a child who discovered royalty for first time; that gave him a wistful smile.

– I wish… we'd met before… – stood up to take an attack position, raising the trident towards Jingū. – Come on Himiko! Let's bet everything on our end!

– Yeah!

– The fight continues, ladies and gentlemen! We're witnessing the last moments of this great fight between kings!

Each of the viewers had their own support for their representatives.

– You can, my Sobek! Please win and come with me! – Hathor exclaimed.

– Win fetish idiot! – Khonsu yelled.

– Himiko, darling! You can do it! – Nakahiko exclaimed.

– You can win, Jingū! – Sasaki yelled excitedly.

Jingū and Sobek-Ra clenched their weapons, throwing themselves at each other in long strides.

– Alligator! – the Egyptian Trinity was very stressed – Win, on behalf of your land of Egypt!

– Jingū, Jingū! – the little Valkyries hugged each other – Win! Be our Sasaki Kojiro!

Anubis watched the combat in silence; he felt nothing but a certain pity for the crocodile.

– Do it Jingū! – Geir exclaimed from her place – Win to save my sister Hrist!

Also the human and divine spectators joined in clamor for each fighter.

– Jingū! Jingū! Jingū! Jingū!

– G-O-G! G-O-G! G-O-G! G-O-G!

– Fury of the Nile!

– Rain of Swallows!

They collided their weapons against each other, giving off purple and gold glitters and sparkles illuminated their dance of blows, letting part of that shine shine in reflection of water.

Such an exchange wasn't very long, but for both fighters was an eternal moment: they gave their bodies and spirits in last attacks, with sword or trident, to demonstrate all their dedication to the goals they have.

The best moment in their lives: a fight to death where could express their hearts.

But everything has an end.

Was Sobek-Ra who dictated the ending; the crocodile struck Jingū's sword in such a way it fell to the ground, to seize the trident from almost one end and throw the points into the woman's abdomen.

– Thanatos Tou Vasiliá!

The woman got scared seeing how his weapon was approaching her at great speed, and the lack of separation from its made any escape route impossible.

She could only do one thing: interpose her hands as a shield.

The trident hit both hands with force: her right hand was almost broken by the force, while with the left took advantage of the hole had been made, to allow the passage of the trident as well as clenched her fist.

But the third point was missing: being the longest, although the woman had managed to grab and stop its advance, the edge reached the woman aggressively brushing her belly, causing a cut began to release blood.

The worst thing was what Sobek-Ra did: pushed the divine weapon further with the little strength had left, which still managed to force the woman back, lower her guard and allow the third prong to begin to enter her body slowly and painfully.

Although she pushed with all strength had left, it wasn't enough; sooner than later she would eventually give in and let the trident go through her.

But it wasn't going to happen; her mind worked to find a way out, being able to find only one answer that… maybe it was the right one.

– This is over Himiko.

– … No Sobek… – the woman took a deep breath to look up – I won't allow it!

She directed her right leg strength into an upward kick as released the trident; the suddenness of attack caused the crocodile to drop the weapon and fly into air.

Jingū exerted herself too much for that attack so felt her strength leave her as soon as hit the ground, but it wasn''t time yet:

With left foot retrieved her sword, just like before, and pushed it to her hands to get up and attack Sobek-Ra's blind spot with a Tsubame Gaeshi; the crocodile noticed and raised his arm to take the trident, taking advantage of the opening to make a downward attack and crush the human.

Their eyes met for a moment; the blood from the crash splattered on the arena, the fresh waters suddenly calmed down and…

Everything was silent.

Neither humans nor spectator gods could comment on the matter: Sasaki, Geir, Hathor, Lif, Lifthrasir, Khonsu, Oujin, Nakahiko, Hime, Nosukune, Hibiko, the master of Jingū, Athena, Hermes, Ares, Zeus, Osiris, Horus, Isis, Shiva, Thor, Syf, Anubis, Cleopatra…

No one could believe it; the only one with the courage to speak was the introducer.

– Jingū Kougou… and Sobek-Ra… They've received the price of their attacks!

» Jingū's left shoulder pierced by the trident! The human sword pierced Sobek's body!

Everyone felt great fear and concern, especially since they only saw them standig with those weapons, no signs of movement, just heavy breathing with blood coming out of their nostrils, a vacant look…

Were they still alive?

– What's happening? Why are none of these fighters moving?

Silence reigned in the stadium for a few moments, until a human shouted into the fighting arena: Nakahiko.

– Get up honey!

– Jingū! Don't give up! – Sasaki accompanied him immediately. – It's not time to surrender!

– Win, Jingū, win! – Lif and Lifthrasir exclaimed together.

Shortly afterwards humanity joined in their clamor for their representative; all shouting the woman's name.

Something that apparently worked when she looked up.

– … Y-Yes?

– Jingū Kougou is still alive! Despite that clash with Sobek-Ra, she's still alive!

Humanity erupted in shouts of joy at the realization; on the other hand the gods were even more concerned.

– Sobek… I-It can't be… – Hathor fell to the ground on knees.

For this reason Khonsu shouted from tiers towards the crocodile.

– Hey! You said you wouldn't lose without a fight! Get up at once fetishist!

Some lesser gods still trusted the crocodile so began to imitate humanity, shouting the crocodile's name to cheer him up. In the arena, Sobek-Ra coughed a bit and reacted.

– I-I'm not… a fetishist…

– Sobek-Ra is also shown alive!

The gods matched humanity in their cries of excitement for their fighter, but it was the same as moments ago for the fighters: Jingū and Sobek-Ra immersed themselves in them, in a moment of silence exclusive to both.

They breathed hard and exchanged glances; they inevitably brought smiles to their faces when they looked at each other.

– You're still alive Himiko, even though you're only human… You're more perfect than I thought.

Such a comment caused a visible blush in Jingū, who was carried away by her feelings to give that following statement:

– Why don't we… leave it like that? Why don't we just give up?

Jingū's smile was nervous and the tone of her voice indicated she didn't want to accept what would follow; Sobek-Ra was silent.

– We should leave it that way. I know what I said… – her words began to express fear – But… I'm too tired to keep fighting… And I know you too…

» We could go to the infirmary together… Being on continuous stretchers, sharing meals, disturbing the nurses…

» T-Tomorrow I want to continue fighting with you! A-And also… can I introduce you to my family! I know my son could come to admire you--!

– No Himiko.

Sobek-Ra raised his free hand and stroked Himiko's hair tenderly, as a loving father would. Although such a gesture wasn't so pleasant because of her words:

– Didn't I already tell you? A king never surrenders and never offers surrender unless it's… because knows will win. This can only have one end for you and me.

Jingū knew what that meant, but didn't want to accept it. Her head began to shake from side to side rapidly in desperate denial, while eyes bathed in tears.

– Please, please… I don't want to do it. I don't want, I don't want…

Sobek-Ra gave a wistful smile, accompanied by crocodile tears.

– May the best king win…

His hand held the trident clenched and pulled it from woman's shoulder, allowing a scream and blood to expel from her.

– Sobek-Ra will make one last attack!

Sobek-Ra immediately redirected the pints of the trident to rip Jingū's head off.

After the pain Jingū felt, was just stunned at that scenario: her mind didn't want to, at same time knew what to do.

She could only close her eyes so as not to look, and grit her teeth.

Her hands held sword was still in Sobek-Ra's stomach, and letting her feelings flow caused the purple glow on her weapon with which attacked:

– Jewels of Gods!

The divine weapon went through the body of the crocodile with some difficulty, cutting from the stomach upwards; ribs, lung, up to the shoulder where the edge of the sword came out, almost splitting the crocodile in two and expelling a large amount of blood.

Sobek-Ra felt strength leave him with such a slash, causing him to drop the trident from his hand and let it sink to the bottom of arena. Fell to knees on platform and started to fall sideways into the bottom of water, but…

Jingū used what little strength she had to hold him up and not let him fall.

– S-Sobek!

– Himiko… – the crocodile laughed a little – Did I offend you… for you to make me that offer…?

– Don't die! – the woman was crying uncontrollably – Don't die, I still want… I want to be with you… Don't go!

She turned to tiers intending to yell at them for medical help, but the crocodile's hand holding her back.

– Don't worry. I don't regret this, on contrary… I want to thank you…

– Thank you… for doing this to you…?

– Thank you for fulfilling my dream… To die in arms of a true king… And my favorite queen… – the crocodile closed his eyes – Thank you Himiko…

The crocodile exhaled one last time, and while in Jingū's arms it shattered into dust flew into air. The woman was in shock, although the sound could return to ears to hear around.

– Jingū has succeeded! After a battle left the arena in tatters, she has defeated the second Poseidon!

Humanity filled the stadium with their cries of victory: Sasaki and Oujin hugged each other excitedly, while Jingū's family and friends jumped up and exclaimed. The little Lif and Lifthrasir jumped on Geir's chair with their arms around each other, while the purple-haired Valkyrie had her fists clenched and wept happily.

In Simo's room, the Valkyries and the Einherjer smiled, embracing each other; in her room Cleopatra let out a proud laugh along with a greedy smile.

The Japanese woman gasped for her tears; as soon as the god's body finished disappearing, she stood up to mutter to herself.

– … Thank you so much Sobek… for being proud of me…

Snatched up her sword, and gathering strength, leapt to her feet in victory.

– Yayyyyyy!

– Humanity gains its first victory in the second round of Ragnarok!

***

Jingū Kougou vs Sobek
Fight duration: 16 min. 39 sec
Decisive Technique: Jewels of Gods.
Winner: Jingū Kougou.
1 – 1

Publication Date: 09/03/22
ASFD

Author's note: I'm very sorry for the delay; I barely had time to re-edit this chapter and update it (being a week behind what we were working on). Maybe I'll scroll through the chapter post to catch up, so starting today every 21 days.

So with that being said, see you in 3 weeks, if not less!