The Host teleports you onwards to your next match. The moment you open your eyes, you notice that there is something very different about your new location. You are surrounded by pure blue skies and radiant light. You look down, and realize that you not standing on ground, but what appears to be clouds. In the distance, you see cherubs in golden tunics flitting about on white wings.
You blink, puzzled. “The heck… is this… heaven?”
You see a rather familiar looking woman with purple hair in the distance. “Athena? Is that you?”
The woman turns, and steps closer. She is clad in what is essentially a red bikini, with a flowing red sash tied at her waist and a pair of sandals with straps running up her calves. She regards you with a bemused smile. “The Athena you are familiar with is not me, but my reincarnation. I am Athena, goddess of wisdom and battle.”
“Eh?” It’s clear from your expression that this answer has only made you more confused. “You’re a goddess? So… did I win the tournament? Are you supposed to give me my prize now?”
Goddess Athena’s expression becomes stern. “I’m afraid not.” A bronze sword and a shield in the shape of a heart materialize in her hands. “You are but a mortal, lacking in the wisdom to responsibly wield the power the Host means to give you.”
“Wait… you’re gonna fight me?” An expression of shock and terror gradually forms on your face. “I’m gonna fight a GODDESS!? How the hell is that fair?”
Athena brandishes her blade at you. “To preserve the balance of heaven and earth, I must destroy you.”
“Well… crap.” You swallow and take your stance. “Guess I don’t have a choice then.”
Athena rushes forwards and swings her shield at you. You block the shield-bash with your arms, but the sheer power of the blow shakes your bones. Having put you off balance, Athena swings her sword down at you. You narrowly evade the blade as it whistles past you, then strike back with a one-two, but your fists bounce off Athena’s shield. Athena hops back, gaining distance, and a bow materializes in her hands. You duck as a magic arrow zips over your head, then stand to see a glowing, magical light surround Athena. As the light fades, you see Athena, now transformed into a mermaid, rushing towards you on a miniature tidal wave.
It’s clear that Athena’s powers are tremendous
and versatile. You’ll have to come up with a plan fast if you’re going to survive your battle with the goddess.
