Chapter 49: CHAPTER 49
c49 Asgard, The Realm of the Gods
In the vast expanse of deep space, a nebula-like mass of matter condensed into shimmering crystals. On the immense foundation of this floating land, an azure ocean stretched endlessly, its waters cascading over the edges like a magnificent waterfall.
At the heart of this ocean stood the grand palace, surrounded by statues of gods, with the Bifrost a vibrant rainbow bridge arching across the entire realm.
Asgard!
The legendary city from Norse mythology, home to the mighty Asgardian gods and the leader of the Nine Realms. It is a symbol of power, influence, and mysticism, a force that resonates across the cosmos.
Asgard, a land suspended in the void of space, does not belong to any known star system. It exists outside the conventional flow of time and space, unaffected by revolutions or rotations.
The realm, in theory, should be immune to the passage of seasons and the cycle of day and night. Yet, through a blend of magic and advanced technology, Asgard experiences unique cycles, creating the illusion of changing seasons and the passage of time.
Across the Bifrost, the figures of the Ancient One and Russell walked slowly towards the golden palace at the heart of Asgard, their steps deliberate as they neared the entrance to the Hall of the Gods.
Inside the palace, the Asgardian gods stood in immaculate military garb, adorned with starry cloaks, their faces solemn, their gazes fixed ahead as if awaiting something important.
At the deepest part of the palace, Odin, the All-Father, sat upon the throne of the God King, high above the assembled gods.
Ta-da-da!
The sound of footsteps echoed through the hall as Russell and the Ancient One, both clad in simple white robes, entered, seemingly out of place amidst the grandeur of the Asgardian court.
The gods' attention shifted to the newcomers. Was this the distinguished guest they had all been waiting for?
The aura surrounding them was hard to read, leaving the Asgardian gods uncertain of the true nature of their power.
Odin's gaze passed over the Ancient One and Russell as they entered the hall. He gave a solemn nod, motioning for them to take their seats.
Under normal circumstances, Odin would not have hosted the Supreme Sorcerer of Kamar-Taj with such formality. But these were not ordinary times. Odin's reign was nearing its end. He was preparing to pass the mantle to his son, Thor, but there was still time before Thor could truly become the king, and Asgard needed assistance from Kamar-Taj.
As Odin's gaze fell on Russell, an unsettling sensation passed through him.
"I sense danger from this young man."
It was an unusual feeling. Odin, despite his age and declining physical strength, had reached the peak of his divine power. In theory, he should not have felt threatened by a mere sorcerer.
"Ancient One, I greet you, All-Father Odin," the Ancient One spoke with reverence, bowing slightly in a gesture of respect.
Russell followed suit, his voice clear and respectful: "Russell, greetings to you, All-Father Odin."
Odin returned their salutes, his tone formal: "I, Odin Borson, greet the Supreme Sorcerer of Kamar-Taj. And to you, Mage Russell."
Before any further words could be exchanged, cheers erupted from outside the hall.
Thor Odinson, the God of Thunder, son of Odin, and heir to the throne of Asgard, entered the hall. Clad in his battle armor and bearing Mjolnir, his enchanted hammer, Thor was a towering figure, exuding both strength and charisma.
As he made his way into the hall, the people of Asgard erupted into applause, showering their future king with adoration. Thor responded with playful gestures and poses, basking in the love of his people, until he finally entered the palace and made his way to his father.
The cheers gradually quieted as Thor approached Odin and knelt before him, lowering Mjolnir and removing his helmet to reveal his shining golden hair, which gleamed like a lion's mane.
Thor smiled warmly, his gaze sweeping over the assembled gods, his eyes briefly meeting those of the Ancient One and Russell. He gave them an easy smile, as though he had known them for years.
Ding!
With a light tap of the Eternal Spear on the ground, Odin silenced the hall. His voice rang out, filled with authority and reverence:
"Thor Odinson, my son, my heir. The mighty Mjolnir, forged from the core of a dying star, has been entrusted to you. It is a weapon of immense power, both for destruction and creation fitting for a king."
"I have long defended Asgard and the Nine Realms. But now, that duty falls to you. Do you swear to protect the Nine Realms, Thor?"
The assembly fell silent, awaiting Thor's response. Russell noticed a flicker of unease in Loki's expression a shadow of discontent that passed quickly, but not unnoticed.
Ancient One met Russell's eyes, silently urging him to remain neutral. There was no need to intervene in Asgardian matters.
"I swear," Thor's voice rang out, unwavering and strong.
"Do you swear to maintain peace in the realms?" Odin continued, his eyes narrowing slightly as he spoke the next words, his gaze momentarily shifting toward Loki.
Loki stiffened but said nothing.
"I swear," Thor declared confidently.
"Do you swear to forsake all selfish ambitions, to serve the realms with wisdom and honor?"
Thor hesitated for only a moment before lifting his hand and swearing once more, his voice louder and filled with conviction: "I swear!"
"Then, today," Odin said, his voice powerful, "I, Odin Borson, father of the gods, declare you King of Asgard!"
Zizzz... Zizzz...
Suddenly, a disturbance interrupted the moment. A cold, creeping chill filled the air as the Frost Giants launched an attack on Asgard, seeking to steal the Casket of Ancient Winters, the fabled ice box. The ceremony was abruptly cut short.
As the guards scrambled to respond, Russell and the Ancient One were escorted to a side chamber. The door was closed behind them, and the sound of boots marching echoed outside.
Once alone, Russell sighed heavily. "Master, this is so boring," he muttered, feeling restless in the quiet surroundings.
Gu Yi, unbothered, continued to eat the fruit that had been provided for them. "Patience, Russell," she said with a smile, not looking up from her snack.
"You really do enjoy this, don't you?" Russell grumbled.
Gu Yi chuckled, wiping her hands clean. "I don't know exactly what will happen, but my instincts tell me it won't be an easy road ahead."
Russell raised an eyebrow. "Your instincts? Isn't that a little vague?"
"A mage's instincts are often more accurate than logic," Gu Yi replied calmly.
Russell frowned as Gu Yi stood up. "I need to speak with Queen Frigga. You should wait here."
"Wait here?" Russell muttered, looking around. "So you've made friends in Asgard while I'm stuck here?"
With that, Gu Yi left the room, leaving Russell to his own devices.
Determined to make the best of the situation, Russell stood up. Perhaps he could explore the realm, buy some Asgardian souvenirs, and add to his collection. After all, it was on Gu Yi's account, so there would be no problem.
As for money? Well, could anyone really expect Gu Yi to not pay her debts?
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