Chapter 1473 - Ch: 50-60

Chapter 50 Russell: I want to destroy Asgard

" A thousand years ago, the Frost Giants of Jotunheiminvaded Midgard.

They threatened to plunge the Human World into a new ice age.

Asgardian King Odin summoned the Asgardian army and allied with the forces of Midgard to fight against the Frost Giants.

Ultimately, under the leadership of Asgardian King Odin, the allied forces defeated the Frost Giants and protected the peace of the Nine Realms.

It is historically known as the Battle of Tønsberg."

When the glorious deeds of Asgard's conquest of the Nine Realms were mentioned, the guests present and the attendants at the banquet all proudly puffed out their chests.

Although Thor's coronation ceremony was interrupted, the Asgardians attending the celebration still held many banquets.

Feeling bored, Russell followed an attendant and participated in one of them.

"Master Russell."

"Master Russell."

"Master Russell."

Walking through the banquet, people occasionally greeted Russell, and Russell responded with a smile and a nod each time.

As one of the two Masters who were received with great courtesy, Russell had gained some fame in Asgard.

Many people were quite curious about his abilities.

The adults could still control their curiosity and maintain their etiquette.

But the children might not.

Just as Russell found a seat and was about to enjoy the Asgardian delicacies.

And listen to the tales of Asgard's past recounted by the people at the banquet.

A child suddenly ran up to Russell and asked curiously:

"Master Russell, can you use magic? Like My Lord Loki, to create many versions of yourself."

The child's question attracted everyone's attention; they also wanted to know what abilities Russell possessed.

Russell smiled at the child but did not answer, continuing to drink the specially brewed Asgardian mead.

Just as everyone felt Russell was too aloof.

And the child felt disappointed.

A hand patted his shoulder, and Russell's voice came from behind him.

"You mean, like this?"

In front of the child, Russell's true body was drinking mead.

No one present noticed when Russell created a clone to get behind the child.

"Wow~"

"Good!"

Clap clap clap!

Russell's magic performance drew applause and cheers from everyone present.

Russell raised his glass and gestured: "Drink!"

"Drink!"

In fact, the Ekron Form clone and Loki's clone are not the same thing.

Loki's are not clones, but illusions.

He just likes to make the illusions look like himself, which makes them seem like clones.

Burp~

Asgardians are indeed simple and honest folk.

After several hours of intense drinking, Russell prepared to leave.

He had already gotten everyone who was drinking at the banquet drunk.

Just then, a tall, armored figure sat down in front of Russell.

Thor?

Shouldn't he be planning now,

To attack the Frost Giants' lair, Jotunheim, one of the Nine Realms, which interrupted his coronation ceremony?

Despite his inner worries, Thor still forced a smile:

"I heard, Master Russell, that you have already gotten hundreds of Asgardian warriors drunk, and you are still not satisfied.

Now, let us accompany you."

Looking up, it wasn't just Thor, but Loki, Sif, and The Warriors Three were also there.

Russell's expression was strange.

Are they on their way to conquer Jotunheim, heard about my feat.

So they decided to come over, get me drunk, and then go attack Jotunheim?

How willful.

However, if that's the case.

You might have to postpone your plans.

"Drink!"

Without further ado, Russell raised his glass. No matter how many people came, he was going to wipe out Asgard today.

After three thousand rounds of drinks and five hundred dishes, Thor and the others were already tipsy, but Russell's expression remained normal.

Due to Russell's physique, no matter what he ate or drank, he only tasted it.

The words 'full' and 'drunk' had long since departed from his vocabulary.

Perhaps realizing that further drinking would delay their important mission to attack Jotunheim and uncover the truth behind the Frost Giants' invasion of Asgard.

Sif and The Warriors Three began to encourage Thor to drink more.

Fandral, Hogun: "Thor, I toast you. It is you who led us into the most glorious battle."

Volstagg: "Thor, I also toast you. It is you who gave me delicious food and fine wine, making me feel ecstatic."

Sif: "Thor, I also toast you. When I proved that a maiden could become the kingdom's bravest warrior, it was you who supported me from behind."

Yes, they were encouraging Thor to drink more, not less.

Although Sif and The Warriors Three had agreed to accompany Thor into battle, it didn't mean they were unaware that this was defying Asgardian King Odin's command.

Now, by a stroke of luck, they had an opportunity to stop Thor, and they naturally had to seize the moment.

"Good, drink!"

Thor accepted all drinks.

In his hazy state, he felt that their words sounded familiar.

These seem to be my lines.

That's how I just persuaded you all to join me in conquering Jotunheim.

Beside them, Loki, who had drunk less and remained clear-headed, was helpless.

He had meticulously planned all this, only for it to be dramatically disrupted.

First, he let three Frost Giants into Asgard to disrupt Thor's coronation ceremony.

Then, he fanned the flames and provoked Thor.

Making him, in his anger, defy Odin's command and lead a few friends to attack Jotunheim alone.

All the above plans proceeded smoothly, but the subsequent plan was unexpectedly terminated.

In his plan, he would tip off Odin, allowing him to rescue them at a critical moment.

Then, when Odin reprimanded Thor, he would fan the flames, making Odin dislike Thor.

However, this Master, he can really drink.

Thor is almost drunk, but he looks perfectly fine.

Loki looked at Russell, his face full of surprise.

Although they also hone their bodies, a Master's cultivation is primarily spiritual.

Compared to the physique of Thor, a member of the Asgardian King's family, there was simply no comparison.

As Russell downed one cup of mead after another, Lokidid not sense any magical fluctuations.

He was completely relying on his physical body to digest the alcohol and food.

In other words, this Master's physique is even stronger than Thor's?

And, considerably stronger.

After observing Russell for a moment, Loki asked: "Master Russell, are you a Midgardian?"

He truly couldn't understand why Russell was fine after drinking so much.

Normally, an Asgardian's physique is three times that of a Midgardian.

And Thor's physique far surpasses that of an ordinary Asgardian.

Russell shook his head, denying: "No."

Russell was not an Earthling from this timeline; he came from the Earth of the original timeline, from China.

Both his body and soul were from there.

Loki suddenly understood.

So that's it.

That makes sense.

This Russell, besides being a Master, is likely also a powerful warrior.

A powerful warrior who cultivates both magic and martial arts, who has ended up in Midgard.

Is there a chance to win him over, to make him support my succession as Asgardian King?

In Asgard, my prestige is not as good as Thor's, but I can find outside help.

Loki silently calculated in his mind.

Russell also listened silently.

He already knows I'm a Master, and his mind is unguarded, so you can't blame me for eavesdropping, can you?

Chapter 51 Odin: Thor finally understands a little bit

Before Thor knew it, the drinking party had shifted from them accompanying Russell to drink to The Warriors Three, Sif, and Russell accompanying him to drink.

Despite his excellent alcohol tolerance, he was ultimately outnumbered.

Hours later, Thor was drunk and passed out.

"That's enough for today. Thank you all for your generous hospitality."

Seeing Thor pass out, Russell suggested ending the drinking session.

Though mead was good, too much of it had become a bit cloying.

"Alright."

Sif, who was still sober, agreed and stood up to signal for the others to leave.

As for Loki, he had long since disappeared.

Russell had even thought Loki might offer some treasure to win him over.

The Warriors Three were also seven or eight parts drunk, barely able to stand steady by leaning on each other.

Sif, under conscious control, managed to remain sober.

Steadying herself, Sif supported Thor and was about to leave.

"Aren't you taking the hammer?"

Pointing to mjolnir, thors hammer, the mjolnir, thors hammer on the ground, Russell called out to stop everyone and asked.

Sif turned back and explained, "No one can lift mjolnirexcept Thor and the All-Father. Let's leave it here for now; when Thor sobers up, he will automatically summon mjolnir."

"Is it too heavy? After all, it was forged from the core of a dying star."

Russell asked casually, reaching for the hammer's handle.

Russell firmly believed that all magic in the world was the application of energy.

Whether it was only Thor and Odin who could lift it, or only those of pure and good character who could lift it.

As long as it was a spell, it was a type of magic.

Grasping the hammer's handle, Russell fully activated his perception.

He felt mjolnir receiving his soul fluctuations, seemingly using them as a basis for judgment.

Russell also sensed mjolnir's fluctuations, performing reverse analysis and restoration.

Then, he controlled and modified his own soul fluctuation frequency band.

The fluctuation frequency matched!

With a flick of his wrist, mjolnir spun twice in the air and landed in Russell's hand.

"It's not good to just throw things around. I'll take it back for Thor. I don't have much else, but I do have strength."

Bang!

Bang, bang, bang!

Sif watched Russell effortlessly pick up mjolnir, dumbfounded.

In an instant, she let go, causing the drunken Thor to fall to the ground.

The Warriors Three, also in shock, forgot to support each other, and one of them lost his balance and fell to the ground.

"Hmm~"

Thor, who had fallen to the ground, seemed to be woken up.

In a daze, he saw a blurry figure holding his mjolnir, quietly watching him.

"Father, why are you holding my mjolnir? And… hiccup… give it back…"

Before he could finish, Thor passed out again.

Sif, having recovered, asked in disbelief, "How… how did you pick it up?"

Russell smiled shyly, "I saw you all left it behind, and I thought it wasn't good to just leave things lying around, so I wanted to help you take it back. I just picked it up casually, and it wasn't very heavy."

Sif stared at Russell silently, expressionless, as if to say, "Do you think I'll believe that?"

Russell: I don't care what you think, I care what I think.

After a brief moment of showing off and enjoying the thrill,

Russell changed the subject without dwelling too much on it.

"Let's go, let's take Thor back first.

We can't just leave the King of Asgard wandering the streets, can we?"

Russell turned to look for Loki, hoping he would agree with him.

But he couldn't find him.

In the solemn, majestic, and grand golden hall, Odin, clad in golden armor, looked down.

The dense clusters of golden buildings were where the Asgardians lived in peace and prosperity, and they were also the testament to his achievements—he had defended the peace of the Nine Realms for over a thousand years.

But now, everything seemed to be on the verge of breaking, and the flames of war were about to reignite.

Turning, Odin asked the guard beside him, "How is Thordoing?"

He understood his son. Even though he had already reprimanded Thor, with the coronation ceremony ruined, it was hard to guarantee that Thor wouldn't do something drastic.

"King, His Highness Thor has returned to his chambers and is asleep."

"Hmm?!"

Odin raised an eyebrow; this was not like Thor's style.

At the very least, he should be confiding in his friends and cursing him.

Odin slowly spoke, continuing to inquire, "What happened?"

The guard replied, "The guest from Kamar-Taj, Sorcerer Russell, drank everyone present under the table at a banquet. His Highness Thor heard about it and went to join them."

"And then, Thor also got drunk?" Odin's tone was somewhat curious.

"Yes."

Odin wasn't particularly surprised by Thor getting drunk.

The first time he saw Russell, when his sense of crisis was triggered, he knew Russell was not simple.

Now, Asgard might be in trouble, and Kamar-Taj had decisively chosen a side.

Sorcerer Supreme Gu Yi showed her support for Asgardby personally attending Thor's coronation ceremony.

Russell's strength meant Kamar-Taj's strength, which was also a good thing for Asgard.

Without trying to create suspense, the guard directly said, "King, there's one more thing. Russell picked up mjolnir, thors hammer, the mjolnir, thors hammer."

Thud!

This time, Odin was also somewhat shocked.

He couldn't help but stomp Gungnir, the Eternal Spear.

In the vast Universe, and the infinite Multiverse, there were countless powerful individuals.

But truly powerful, kind-hearted, pure, and good individuals were few and far between.

He never expected that, as Ragnarok approached Asgard, such an ally would descend from the heavens!

For a moment, Odin couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion.

Odin had no other thoughts.

He had confidence in himself and in the successive All-Fathers of Asgard.

Russell using other abilities to bypass his enchantment and lift mjolnir, thors hammer, the mjolnir, thors hammer?

Impossible!

Absolutely impossible!

"Thor, in his anger, did not think of attacking Jotunheim to vent his frustration.

Instead, he thought of taking care of and hosting guests who had traveled a long way.

It seems my son has made some progress.

But in the end, he got himself drunk.

Alas, he has made progress, but not much."

Odin's gaze continued to look down at Asgard below.

Some people saw peace and prosperity, but he saw a precarious situation.

The next day, early morning.

Thor slowly woke up.

"Damn it, how did I get drunk yesterday and mess things up?

But Russell, this guy can really drink.

After I deal with the Frost Giants, I'll find him again for a good drink."

Thor looked into the distance, his palm open: "mjolnir."

Swish!

As Thor looked into the distance, mjolnir by the bed quickly flew into Thor's hand.

mjolnir: "…"

Thor: "…"

"I was drunk yesterday, did I bring you back too?"

Thor muttered to himself.

"It must be so."

In a daze, Thor thought of a not-so-pleasant scene.

Go!

Thor flung the hammer, grasping it, and flew up with it.

He was going to find Loki, Sif, and The Warriors Three to complete what they hadn't finished yesterday.

To attack Jotunheim, find the Frost Giants, and figure out why they invaded Asgard.

And how they invaded Asgard.

Chapter 52 Thor is trapped in Jotunheim

The Bifrost Bridge.

It is both a powerful weapon of war and a swift means of transportation.

As a weapon of war, when fully activated, it can completely destroy a Planet.

As a means of transportation, once positioned, it can transport people or objects to anywhere in the Universe.

Or from anywhere in the Universe, transport them back to Asgard.

Thor and his companions were riding horses, galloping in a triangular formation on the Bifrost Bridge.

Leading the way was Thor, his face beaming with excitement, determined to attack Jotunheim.

In the second row were Loki and Sif, their expressions varied.

Sif's face showed helplessness.

She had thought that after yesterday's drunken revelry, Thor would change his mind once he had cooled down.

Unexpectedly, the first thing Thor did after sobering up was to summon them to attack Jotunheim.

Loki's face, on the other hand, held a hidden delight.

He had thought that after yesterday's interruption, his plan would fail.

Unexpectedly, Thor was single-minded and believed his nonsense about "if we don't find the loophole, the Frost Giants might lead an army to attack Asgard next time."

He was going to Jotunheim to confront the Frost Giants and investigate the truth of their invasion of the Asgardian treasury.

Vaguely, Loki felt as if he had forgotten something.

A moment later, Thor and the others arrived at the end of the Bifrost Bridge, where their path was blocked by a tall figure in golden armor, leaning on a sword with both hands.

It was Heimdall, the Guardian of the Bifrost Bridge.

It is said that he can see all and hear all, monitoring the Nine Realms for the All-Father Odin.

Just as Thor stepped forward, ready to state his intentions, Loki moved ahead, stopping Thor: "Leave it to me, brother."

Loki stepped forward with a smile, greeting Heimdall: "Hello, Heimdall."

"You are not dressed warmly enough."

Heimdall interrupted Loki's greeting with an impassive face.

Loki feigned confusion: "What did you say?"

Heimdall looked straight ahead, his tone flat: "Do you think you can hide anything from me?"

Loki chuckled, trying to bluff his way through: "You must be mistaken."

"Enough."

This time, it was Thor who interrupted Loki.

As Thor's voice rang out, Loki's expression darkened.

Thor, burly in his armor and cloak, approached and spoke directly: "Heimdall, will you let us pass?"

Heimdall looked at Thor and said solemnly: "No enemy has ever escaped my sight, until today. I want to know what exactly is happening."

"Then don't tell anyone where we've gone until we return, understood?"

Thor responded imperiously, striding past Heimdalltowards the Bifrost Bridge behind him.

Sif and The Warriors Three followed closely, leaving Lokialone, stunned for a moment.

Arriving at the Bifrost Bridge control center, Heimdallinserted his sword into the console, activating the Bifrost Bridge.

Countless lightning-like energies erupted from the console, shooting towards the mysterious runes on the surrounding walls.

The device beneath the console activated, and the entire spherical control center began to rotate rapidly.

Finally, its pointed end aligned with a direction in the void.

A seven-colored rainbow light passed through Thor and his companions, shooting deep into the Universe.

Reaching a distant Planet, forever shrouded in ice and perpetual darkness—Jotunheim.

After a dozen breaths, Thor and the others landed one by one.

Looking around, there was a vast expanse of tall, dilapidated ice fortresses and inverted glaciers.

Darn it!

Loki remembered.

He had forgotten to tell the guards to inform Odin.

Once they clashed with the Frost Giants, they would truly be surrounded and isolated.

Exploring further, Thor and the others arrived before a palace and met King Laufey of the Frost Giants, who resembled a White Walker with crimson eyes.

Upon seeing King Laufey of the Frost Giants, Thor, as always, asked directly: "How did your people enter Asgard?"

Laufey exhaled a cold breath, looking askance at Thor, and said disdainfully: "Odin's house is full of traitors."

Thor stepped forward, angrily rebuking: "Do not slander my father's name with lies."

Laufey suddenly rose in anger: "Your father is an executioner, a thief."

Clearly, he still harbored resentment over the defeat at Tønsberg.

He believed that if Odin had not raided the Frost Gianttemple and stolen the casket of ancient winters, he would not have been defeated.

After a roar, Laufey continued to mock:

"Why have you come, to make peace?

You expect war, you crave it.

You are nothing more than a little boy trying to prove himself a My Lord."

Thor tightened his grip on mjolnir: "This 'boy' is tired of your mockery."

The situation suddenly became tense, with war on the brink.

Innumerable Frost Giants around them condensed ice in their hands, forming ice blades.

"Thor, think twice."

Loki, sensing the wrong turn of events, hurried to Thor's side and whispered.

"Look around you, we are outnumbered."

"Remember your place, brother." Thor was unmoved.

Watching the enraged Thor, Laufey stepped down from his throne and approached the group, saying condescendingly:

"You may not know what your actions will bring, but I do. Leave before I change my mind."

Loki bowed slightly, humbly saying: "We will accept your most generous offer."

Thor's angry gaze moved back and forth between Lokiand Laufey, and after much hesitation, he decided to swallow his anger.

With so many Frost Giant warriors, he might be able to fight his way out, but the others could not.

"Let's go, brother."

Loki turned, about to pull Thor away.

Thor also turned, about to leave.

"Go home, little princess."

Laufey's mocking voice came from behind.

"Damn it!"

Loki sighed inwardly.

He could already guess what would happen next.

Thor, enraged, paradoxically felt a sense of release.

He flashed his signature smile.

mjolnir slipped into his hand, gripping the handle.

He twisted, swung the hammer.

It hit Laufey square in the chest.

Bang!

Laufey was sent flying, crashing into the distance.

The war began abruptly and quickly escalated into a fierce battle.

It was 5+1 Asgardians against an entire Planet of Frost Giants.

Heimdall on the Bifrost Bridge, witnessing this scene, couldn't help but frown deeply.

Should he report to the All-Father?

In Asgard, in the Crystal Palace Fensalir, the residence of Queen Frigga.

Frigga, who was discussing the principles of magic with Sorcerer Ancient One, suddenly frowned.

Just now, she had foreseen a very terrible future—The Warriors Three dying on Jotunheim, Sif and Loki gravely injured, and Thor alone, unable to withstand the myriad armies.

Frigga is a Witch with the ability of precognition, occasionally able to foresee a glimpse of the future.

But she keeps her knowledge secret, never revealing what she knows.

Just as Ancient One, the Guardian of the Time Stone, never easily interferes with the present.

But, this matter...

Seeing Frigga's sudden change of expression, Ancient One smiled faintly and took a sip of tea.

Indeed, she never easily interferes with the present, but she has a useful and lawless disciple.

"Russell, time for work!"

Chapter 53 Ancient One: He is the best among us

Sorcerer Ancient One intended to take on the task of rescuing Thor and assign it to Russell.

Just as Odin needed to hold Thor's coronation ceremony to build momentum for Thor, Sorcerer Ancient One also needed a suitable opportunity to build momentum for Russell, allowing him to fully display his strength and deter the surrounding Dimensional Demon Gods.

Colluding to extort Mephisto was not an option; it would tarnish the image of Kamar-Taj's Sorcerer Supreme.

The Frost Giants were the target Sorcerer Ancient Onechose for Russell.

Their individual strength was generally average, relying on numbers to win.

The high-end combatant, King Laufey of the Frost Giants, had significantly weakened since the Casket of Ancient Winters was taken by Odin.

From a combat power structure perspective, he was completely outmatched by Russell; no one could break through Russell's defenses.

More importantly, it was a righteous cause.

A thousand years ago, the Frost Giants invaded Earth, attempting to turn it into an ice age, a paradise for Frost Giants.

Kamar-Taj was also a member of the allied forces that resisted the Frost Giants a thousand years ago.

As a member of Kamar-Taj, Russell was now representing Earth to go to Jotunheim to collect a debt.

It was reasonable in every way.

Sorcerer Ancient One pretended to be concerned and asked Frigga:

"Queen, have you encountered any difficulties?"

After a moment of hesitation, Frigga frowned and slowly nodded.

Concerning the safety of her two sons and future daughter-in-law (Sif), she no longer cared about violating principles and revealing heavenly secrets.

She needed to find Odin and ask him to rescue Thor and the others.

Frigga stood up and bid farewell to Sorcerer Ancient One: "Sorcerer Supreme, I have something else to attend to, please excuse me."

Sorcerer Ancient One asked, "Is the Queen going to find the Allfather to discuss the rescue of His Highness Thor? Why don't we go together?"

Frigga retorted, "Does Sorcerer Ancient One know?"

Sorcerer Ancient One nodded: "I guessed it."

Frigga assented: "Then we shall go together."

With that, Frigga lifted her skirt, quickened her pace, and headed towards the golden hall where Odin often stayed.

Sorcerer Ancient One followed, her steps seemingly slow but actually swift.

Passing through several palaces, the two saw Odin, who was looking down at Asgard, reminiscing about the past.

Frigga disregarded etiquette and went straight to the point:

"Thor and the others are in trouble in Jotunheim and need our rescue."

Odin frowned, and anger silently surged in his heart.

He had actually thought Thor had matured yesterday.

"How did they get to Jotunheim, through the Bifrost Bridge? Why didn't Heimdall report it to me? Does he think I, the Allfather, have grown old and senile?"

In an instant, Odin understood the cause and effect.

"Sorcerer Supreme."

Hastily greeting Sorcerer Ancient One, Odin picked up the Eternal Spear and was about to fly to the Bifrost Bridge.

Angry as he was, he couldn't possibly watch Thor fall in Jotunheim.

"Allfather."

Sorcerer Ancient One called out to Odin.

"If you trust me, why not let Russell try?"

"He is the next Sorcerer Supreme, and in a few years, he will succeed me."

"At that time, he and Thor will jointly protect the peace and prevent the erosion of magic in this World."

"Why not let them try fighting side-by-side now, in advance?"

Well, these were Sorcerer Ancient One's polite words.

What Sorcerer Ancient One truly meant was to prepare Thor in advance to rely on him.

"Good. Thank you, Sorcerer Supreme, for your help."

Odin agreed, his furrowed brow slowly relaxing.

The Kamar-Taj lineage, they truly were all good people.

Sorcerer Ancient One smiled, not responding to Odin's thanks:

"Russell has already arrived at the Bifrost Bridge, please ask the Allfather to let Heimdall grant passage."

On the Bifrost Bridge, Heimdall, who had received Odin's message, stepped aside to let Russell pass, then followed behind him.

Looking at Russell's back, Heimdall's eyes were filled with incomprehensible doubt.

From Russell's aura, he could sense that Russell was a warrior stronger than him, and even stronger than Thor. But could he go to Jotunheim alone to rescue Thor?

It wasn't just Heimdall; Frigga was also puzzled.

The difference was that Heimdall's doubts could only be kept to himself, while she could ask directly.

"Sorcerer Supreme, Russell..."

Sorcerer Ancient One naturally understood the unspoken meaning in her words.

"Although Russell has not yet succeeded as Sorcerer Supreme, his strength has long surpassed mine."

"He is the most outstanding among us (Sorcerer Supreme)."

If the Ancient Gods didn't appear, Russell would be unrivaled in this World.

The last sentence was a bit chuunibyou, and Sorcerer Ancient One was too embarrassed to say it out loud.

But that was the meaning.

Odin and Frigga glanced sideways; they both heard the trust in Sorcerer Ancient One's words for Russell.

Could it be that Russell's strength had already surpassed mine? That's unlikely.

Odin couldn't help but mutter in his heart; he was confident he could defeat Sorcerer Supreme Gu Yi, but he couldn't say his strength definitively surpassed Sorcerer Ancient One's.

Well, Sorcerer Ancient One actually thought the same.

The strong are always confident in their own strength.

Jotunheim.

Thor, with his extraordinary combat power, charged through the Frost Giants, defeating every opponent with ease.

The other five, however, were already engaged in a bitter struggle.

Except for Loki, who was maneuvering with illusions, the other four had all been injured.

Among them, Fandral, one of The Warriors Three, was severely wounded in the melee, impaled through the chest by a multi-faceted ice shard, almost losing his ability to move.

"Break through!"

Thor roared, raising Mjolnir to the sky, and a terrifying lightning bolt struck down, blasting away countless Frost Giant warriors.

Then, with another swing, he dragged mjolnir, smashing through a Frost Beast blocking their path.

Thor led the charge.

Along the way, he knocked down and sent flying countless Frost Giant warriors, carving out an escape route for his teammates.

The others, supporting Fandral, quickly followed.

The Frost Giant warriors pursued closely, pressing in step by step.

Fleeing all the way, Thor and his companions were forced to a cliff.

Behind them were Frost Giant pursuers, and in front, a Frost Beast blocked their path.

"Heimdall, open the Bifrost Bridge!"

Thor roared to the sky, trying to get Heimdall to open the Bifrost Bridge and send them back.

But Heimdall gave no response.

Evidently, he had forgotten Heimdall's words before sending them to Jotunheim—if your return threatens the safety of Asgard, the Bifrost Bridge will not open for you.

The Frost Beast blocking the way raised its claw, poised to flatten them all.

Seeing this, Thor disregarded his continued shouts for Heimdall to open the Bifrost Bridge and swung his hammer to meet it.

Among everyone present, only he had the ability to deal with the Frost Beast.

But, he couldn't cover both front and back.

Thor was, after all, only one person, unable to simultaneously resist the Frost Beast in front and the Frost Giants behind.

Under the siege of countless Frost Giants, the four Asgardians huddled together, desperately resisting.

As for Loki, at some point, he had used illusions to slip away.

Crack! Crack! ~

The glacier beneath their feet suddenly fractured, and caught off guard, their formation was broken, leaving the severely injured Fandral exposed alone before the Frost Giants.

Slash!

A sharp blade pierced through him, piercing his heart.

At the critical moment, Volstagg used his corpulent body to shield Fandral from the attack.

"No!"

Witnessing his friend's death, Thor completely went berserk.

Chapter 54: Overwhelming Jotunheim, the Arrogant Russell

Witnessing his friend's death, Thor fell into a berserk state.

His Thunder God Power was activated, unleashed in all directions through mjolnir.

For a time, the Frost Giant warriors who had surrounded him were beaten back by Thor's sole strength.

However, even many ants can bite an elephant to death.

Frost Giant warriors continuously arrived from all directions, fearless of death, charging at Thor to deplete his divine power and stamina.

Thor, unable to hold out alone, had no choice but to constantly shrink his attack range.

Finally, he retreated to his three remaining teammates, barely managing to protect them.

Discovering Loki was not among the group, Thor, panting, asked, "Where's Loki?"

Sif and Hogun, who were less injured and still combat-ready, exchanged glances and both shook their heads: "We don't know, we haven't seen him in a long time."

Thor's heart sank.

Could it be that Loki also... died in battle?

Shaking his head, Thor cast these distracting thoughts from his mind.

The battle was not over; it was not yet time for grief.

"Thor," Sif whispered, "You break through, Hogun and I will cover you."

"No," Thor flatly refused, "I will not abandon you and run away alone."

"Thor!" Sif's voice grew a few shades heavier, "If you don't leave now, none of us will be able to."

"That's right, none of you will be able to leave!"

Observing signs of Thor's divine power waning, Laufeydecided to take the initiative.

Today, he would restore the glory of the Frost Giants with the death of Odin's son!

"Die, son of Odin."

Seizing a moment when Thor was swinging his hammer, Laufey brought an axe down on Thor.

Just then.

A seven-colored rainbow light descended from the sky.

Boom!

Accompanied by a roar, the surrounding Frost Giants were all repelled, including Laufey.

Russell, the hero, made his entrance.

He scanned his surroundings and saw only three people beside Thor.

Volstagg lay dead nearby, and Loki was nowhere to be found.

Russell sighed softly: "It seems I'm still a little late."

It was a pity that he couldn't openly use portal magic in Asgard, otherwise, spatial fluctuations would be detected and it would be considered an invasion.

And taking the Bifrost Bridge was still a little too slow.

Turning around, Russell looked at the countless Frost Giant warriors in front of him and in the distance.

He strode forward, declaring with an imposing aura: "I will end this war."

After speaking, Russell walked towards King Laufey of the Frost Giants.

His mental power also gradually spread, becoming almost tangible, pressing down on the many Frost Giantwarriors.

"If you haven't fought enough, then I will be your opponent."

Tap, tap, tap.

Russell approached step by step, radiating hostility, and his mental power began to become more aggressive.

Laufey's expression was grim, his tone icy:

"Stranger, I advise you not to get involved in this mess."

"Roar!"

A giant ice beast suddenly lunged from one side, opening its gaping maw to bite Russell.

Russell frowned, taking a large step back with a hint of disdain, just barely dodging.

He raised his hand and slapped the head of the ice beast.

"Be careful, don't directly touch the ice beast's body, you'll be corroded by ice energy."

Sif's warning sounded, but it was too late.

But it didn't matter.

Russell's hand lightly placed itself on the ice beast's head, and he softly said:

"I once heard a joke that Thor is afraid of lightning.

I wonder if an ice beast is afraid of ice."

His talent [Energy Absorption] was activated.

Instantly, he plundered all the ice energy and internal energy from the ice beast in front of him.

The ice beast's Kelvin temperature dropped to near 0K; its cells, molecules, and atoms were all frozen.

A lifelike giant beast ice sculpture appeared before everyone's eyes.

Slowly retracting his hand, Russell looked at Laufey:

"Is this your answer, King Laufey of the Frost Giants?"

Boom!

The next second, the situation changed dramatically, clouds rolled, and the earth tore apart.

The mental power pressing on the Frost Giant warriors transformed from a boulder into a sharp blade, piercing deep into their souls.

"Ah."

Only about half of the Frost Giant warriors managed to let out a scream, then either stood precariously or slumped to the ground.

The vast majority of Frost Giant warriors, however, fell silent and collapsed to sleep.

"Hmph~"

Loki also couldn't help but let out a muffled grunt, revealing himself from his disguise.

In the previous melee, he had secretly disguised himself as a Frost Giant warrior, turning foe into friend.

However, at this moment, no one noticed him.

Seeing this, Loki secretly shielded Russell in front of him.

Looking at the tens of kilometers around, thousands of Frost Giant warriors almost instantly lost their combat effectiveness.

The Frost Giant that was suddenly frozen, Thor and the others couldn't understand how it happened, so they didn't feel it was terrifying.

But to incapacitate tens of thousands of nearby Frost Giant warriors almost instantly, with his own strength, completely exceeded Thor's imagination.

Laufey's face was ashen.

On one hand, it was truly humiliating that the giant ice beast had been frozen by someone else's ice magic. (Laufey also didn't understand Russell's method)

On the other hand, the instantaneous demise of tens of thousands of troops made Laufey even more wary of Russell.

But such a large-scale move must have a considerable cost.

He didn't believe Russell could annihilate the Frost Giantrace before running out of energy and stamina.

However, at this moment, the Frost Giant warriors around him had all lost their combat effectiveness.

It was no longer possible to keep Thor and the others.

Laufey coldly swept his gaze over Thor and the others, uttering a harsh threat:

"Thor Odinson, take your friends and get out of here.

However, this matter will not end here; I will give you what you want—

—War, and death."

While the battle was at a stalemate, Hogun also collected Volstagg's body.

Thor and his companions gathered together, waiting for Heimdall to activate the Bifrost Bridge to bring them back to Asgard.

"Was my meaning unclear?"

Just as Laufey and Thor were both preparing to cease hostilities and fight another day, Russell's voice inappropriately rang out.

"I said, I'm here to end this war!"

Swish!

Everyone's gaze turned to Russell, staring intently at him.

Neither Laufey nor Thor expected that Russell, after forcefully suppressing the Frost Giant warriors on the scene and creating an opening to rescue Thor's group, was still not satisfied.

He wanted to coerce the Frost Giants into voluntarily declaring a truce.

"This is going too far!"

Laufey, unable to bear it any longer, condensed a great ice sword and slashed at Russell.

Russell neither dodged nor resisted, not even summoning divine power.

Ding~

A piercing clang of metal on metal rang out.

To the shocked gazes of Laufey, Thor, and the others, Russell was completely unharmed.

Laufey's great ice sword, however, was covered in cracks after the collision.

Russell grinned.

Clearly, King Laufey of the Frost Giants was the one resembling a fiend, while Russell was handsome and elegant.

But at this moment, Russell's smile, in everyone's eyes, was terrifying and eerie.

Just looking at it sent chills down their spines.

"My turn."

Russell clenched his fist, and divine power rapidly condensed within him.

Crack!

A sonic boom erupted as Russell threw a punch, striking Laufey's chest with lightning speed.

With the punch, Russell roared in his heart.

So you're the one called King Laufey of the Frost Giants, huh!

Chapter 55: The Surrender of the Frost Giants

A fist slammed into King Laufey of the Frost Giants' chest, and time seemed to stand still for a moment.

The next instant, Russell's physical strength and divine power erupted simultaneously.

Bang!

King Laufey of the Frost Giants was sent flying.

Along the way, blood sprayed from his seven orifices, congealing into ice flowers on the ground.

After smashing through countless glaciers and rocks, Laufey's body stopped tumbling and landed in a pile of rubble.

The dust gradually settled, but Laufey still hadn't gotten up.

Thor and the others looked over, only to see Laufey's chest caved in and covered in cracks.

His eyes were bloodshot and crimson, yet his pupils lacked focus. He looked both terrifying and comical.

Thor believed he could defeat Laufey in a one-on-one fight, and he had once sent him flying with a hammer.

But there was smoke, no injury.

To instantly kill King Laufey of the Frost Giants with one blow, it would probably require his father Odin, wielding the Eternal Spear Gungnir, to personally intervene.

Russell stepped forward, walking towards Laufey in the distance.

Laufey wasn't dead, which was a bit unexpected.

He had thought he could blow out Laufey's chest with a single punch.

He didn't expect to only severely injure him; he truly was a king who had once clashed with Odin.

Although his strength had waned, he could still withstand a serious punch and not die.

Tap, tap, tap~

At this moment, Laufey remembered his full name, LaufeyYmirson.

He seemed to see his father—Ymir, the progenitor of the Frost Giants—coming to pick him up.

Struggling, Laufey clutched his chest and got up from the ground.

He was the King of the Frost Giants; he could die in battle, but he couldn't lie on the ground like a coward, waiting for his enemy's judgment.

"Cough, cough! Cough!"

Looking at Russell approaching, Laufey laboriously coughed up a few mouthfuls of blood, finally able to speak coherently.

Although Laufey's tone was weak, the will it conveyed was extremely firm:

"You can kill me, but you cannot defeat me;

You can kill the warriors of the Frost Giants, but you cannot stop our revenge.

As long as a breath remains, the war between the Frost Giants and Asgard will not cease."

Russell stopped, raising an eyebrow.

Hmm? Am I the villain now?

If only considering this conflict between the Frost Giants and Asgard, Russell believed the fault lay with Asgard.

Loki deliberately led people in, and then Thor came knocking to demand an explanation.

From the Frost Giants' perspective, Asgard even had suspicions of entrapment.

But Russell was here to take sides.

This was also the Ancient One's intention.

Earthlings and Frost Giants still had a score to settle.

Seeing Russell stop, Laufey burst into laughter:

"Hahaha, mighty warrior, what is your name?

Before I die, at least let me know who killed me."

"Mage Russell."

"Russell, listen!"

Laufey's eyes widened, glaring at Russell.

"My kingdom will not submit to you, Jotunheim will not be trampled under your feet! You cannot kill all the countless Frost Giant warriors!"

Russell frowned. These Giants truly were stubborn.

Contrary to what Laufey thought, annihilating the entire Frost Giant race was not difficult for Russell.

But. There's a difference between decisive killing and bloodthirsty cruelty.

Directly slaughtering an entire kingdom of Frost Giants, or even an entire Planet of Giants.

For Russell, the psychological pressure was too great.

Moreover, facing the slaughter, the Frost Giants might instead choose to resist to the end, and might not yield.

But what if there was another way?

"I think I just told you I'm a Mage, didn't I?"

Muttering to himself, Russell spread his mental power through his Sling Ring, locating nearby stars.

"It's just that, I wonder if you've ever seen a Mage like me."

"Look up!"

High in the sky, a massive portal opened, and on the other side of the door was the void of the Universe.

In the depths of the void, a gigantic Sun was freely releasing light and heat.

"What do you want to do?"

A sudden unease rose in Laufey's heart, but he couldn't imagine what Russell would do next.

He couldn't possibly be thinking that the light and radiation transmitted through such a small portal could melt Jotunheim's ice, could he?

Russell thought for a moment and explained:

"In my homeland, there's a legend.

If ten Suns appear together, they will scorch the forests, dry up the land, and ignite the crops and vegetation.

I want to know now, how many Suns it takes to melt your ice castle."

The ability [Ability Absorption] activated.

Across the endless void, Russell pulled the Sun's originally scattered light radiation and concentrated it at the portal.

After passing through the portal, it then dispersed to shine on the land of Jotunheim.

The solar radiation, unabsorbed, unreflected, and unscattered by any atmosphere, shone directly down.

Even King Laufey of the Frost Giants, with his physique, felt vaguely uncomfortable.

And some weaker Frost Giants even showed a tendency to shrink in size.

Russell asked Laufey with a smile, "Want to add another one?" Let you be stubborn with me!

The next second, nine massive portals opened in the sky.

On the other side of the portals were nine Suns of different sizes, but all equally enthusiastic and unrestrained.

Boom!

Thunder exploded in King Laufey of the Frost Giants' heart.

He saw the solar radiation from one of the Suns converge and shoot towards a portal.

As the intense light gathered, a second Sun appeared in the sky of Jotunheim.

Without giving Laufey time to react.

The third, fourth, and all ten portals activated.

The mythological story from Russell's homeland was now playing out on Jotunheim.

Ten Suns in the Sky!

Jotunheim's ancient ice began to melt at a visible rate.

Ordinary Frost Giants could no longer be exposed in open areas; the intense heat from the strong solar radiation would cause their bodies to shrink or even melt.

They had to hide in caves to barely survive.

Although Thor and the other Asgardians were not afraid of high temperatures, they now felt hot and uncomfortable.

Loki, who was protecting Russell, discovered a small secret.

The temperature and humidity around Russell remained almost constant, always at a comfortable state.

It was foreseeable that if the Ten Suns in the Sky lasted longer, Jotunheim's ecosystem would be completely destroyed.

At that time, the Frost Giants, having lost the casket of ancient winters, would be homeless.

The Frost Giant race would also completely disappear after some time.

"Stop!"

King Laufey of the Frost Giants roared loudly.

Dragging his broken body, he attacked Russell like a madman.

A rain of dense attacks fell on Russell, but they couldn't even break through Russell's body's own defenses.

Russell coldly watched Laufey's futile efforts.

He watched him attack wildly, watched his movements slow, watched him despair, and stop his actions.

This King of the Frost Giants, who had once contended with Odin, and even after defeat and the loss of the precious casket of ancient winters, refused to bow down.

Finally, under Russell's icy gaze, he lowered his proud head.

"Stop, Frost Giants, request a truce."

Although called a truce, everyone knew it was surrender.

Chapter 56 Odin and Thor

"Laufey. Surrender."

Odin, who had already arrived at the Bifrost Bridgecontrol console, ready to intervene and rescue, couldn't help but lose himself in thought.

The eye he lost in the battle with the Frost Giants was now throbbing faintly.

As if reminding him of how formidable an opponent King Laufey of the Frost Giants was.

He had raided the Frost Giant temple back then, seizing the casket of ancient winters, their clan's divine artifact.

Then he decisively defeated the Frost Giants, chasing them all the way back to Jotunheim.

But even then, the Frost Giants were unwilling to surrender and accept his rule.

It was only when he, unwilling to shed more blood, proactively sought peace, that a non-aggression treaty was signed.

The Ancient One still maintained a calm expression, seemingly full of confidence in Russell.

But the occasional glint in her eyes showed that her inner self was not as calm as she appeared.

She also hadn't expected that Russell, by combining teleportation with his innate talent, could achieve such a spectacular feat.

The ten Suns appearing in the sky, threatening Laufeywith Jotunheim's ecosystem, was merely a facade, because Russell was not intent on killing.

The Ancient One saw clearly that the Sun's radiation, after passing through the teleportation portals, was redistributed by Russell.

If Russell hadn't done that, Jotunheim would have faced ten high-energy pulse cannons.

It was said that if Asgard's Bifrost Bridge was activated for a long time, releasing its full power, it would be enough to destroy a Planet. She wondered if Russellcould achieve that.

"Heimdall, open the Bifrost Bridge and bring Thor and the others back."

Odin was the first to recover, instructing Heimdall.

A moment later, the Bifrost Bridge, which Thor, Loki, and the others had longed for, finally appeared, landing behind them.

But Thor, Loki, and the others did not leave immediately; instead, they all looked at Russell, awaiting his decision.

"Wait a little longer."

Russell motioned for everyone to wait a moment, then carefully examined Volstagg's corpse.

Hmm, only his heart was shattered, and his body was severely damaged in multiple places.

But his brain was fine, a minor issue.

It seemed there was no need to use the Time Stone to reverse time.

If his brain had been severely damaged, with hundreds of billions of neurons and trillions of connection points...

Aside from the Time Stone reversing time, Russellcouldn't think of any other method.

A broken heart could be repaired with Asgardiantechnology.

The prerequisite was to bring the soul back as well, otherwise, even if healed, he would only be a vegetable.

Russell waved his hand, signaling Thor and the others to move away from Volstagg's corpse.

He took out the Time Stone (replica), and a green light shone on Volstagg, forming a green light curtain.

The light curtain froze time around him, preventing further brain neuron necrosis.

"Let's go. Volstagg isn't completely dead yet. I've frozen his time with the Time Stone.

Breaking the light curtain will release the time freeze.

During treatment, pay attention to the brain's energy supply."

With that, Russell took the lead and walked towards the Bifrost Bridge.

Thor and Loki followed closely behind.

Sif and Hogun each helped a wounded person, and one "deceased" followed.

Through the Bifrost Bridge, everyone returned to Asgard.

King Odin, Queen Frigga, Bifrost Bridge GuardianHeimdall, and Sorcerer Ancient One were all waiting there.

After greeting Russell, Odin, with a gloomy expression, took Thor and Loki and the others away.

The one who came forward to welcome Russell's triumphant return was Queen Frigga.

"This time, many thanks to Sorcerer Russell for his assistance.

The Asgardians will not forget their friendship with Kamar-Taj. We hope that in the future, both sides will interact more and exchange resources.

Later, a triumphal celebration will be held for the Sorcerer, to commemorate the Sorcerer's might over Jotunheim. Please do attend, Sorcerer."

"Queen, you are too kind. Kamar-Taj and Asgard have watched over each other for many years, jointly guarding the peace of the Nine Realms' physical World and the magic dimension. Lending a helping hand is only right."

Russell responded politely.

Polite words, everyone knows how to say them.

However, exchange resources?

Does Kamar-Taj have any specialties that Asgarddoesn't? How come I don't know?

At this moment, the Ancient One also said politely, "Alright, thank you for the Queen's kindness."

Looking at the smiling Ancient One, Russell realized.

What exchange resources? Wasn't it just payment for his help this time?

The Queen is indeed the Queen, so thoughtful!

"Take them away for treatment."

Odin dismissed the others and walked aside with his two sons.

Upon reaching a secluded spot, Odin turned and questioned Thor, his expression grim: "Do you know what you've done?"

Thor replied without hesitation, "I was defending my home."

Odin's tone grew heavier as he questioned Thor, "You can't even protect your own friends, so what right do you have to protect this Kingdom?"

Thor looked up, glaring at Odin, about to retort and argue his point.

But remembering the wounded Sif and Hogun, the severely injured Fandral, and Volstagg, who was almost dead and saved by Russell, his head involuntarily lowered.

After a moment of thought, Thor looked up and said firmly, "If we fear action, the Kingdom will perish."

Seeing that Thor did not retort out of anger but responded after contemplation, Odin sighed in relief and softened his tone:

"But you forgot everything I taught you, the patience of a warrior.

You made no investigation, no preparations.

You rashly led a small team to break into the Frost Giantcastle in Jotunheim, attempting to force the Frost Giants to reveal everything."

Thor: "I can do it."

"No, you can't," Odin refuted.

"You are arrogant in your strength, but you forget that your comrades do not possess your strength;

You believe yourself powerful, but you forget that there are people in the Nine Kingdoms more powerful than you.

You've been blinded by the easy victories of these past years."

"I didn't..."

Thor's voice grew softer and softer, the words of rebuttal refusing to come out.

He remembered that in the recent battle with the Frost Giants, there were indeed many places where he was powerless.

He couldn't lead his comrades to defeat the Frost Giants, nor could he even break through;

He couldn't protect the severely injured Fandral; it was Volstagg who saved him at the cost of his life;

Seeing Thor realize his mistake, Odin tirelessly taught him:

"A qualified monarch cannot easily wage war due to a moment of anger;

The peace and stability of the Nine Realms did not come easily."

Odin raised gungnir in his hand, and a stream of energy shot out, forming a light curtain.

On the light curtain was the scene of Russell opening ten teleportation portals, with ten Suns appearing in the sky.

"Sorcerer Russell possesses strength no less than mine in my youth. He could have destroyed Jotunheim and killed these Frost Giants, but he did not."

Pointing at the light curtain, Odin explained:

"According to measurements and calculations, the energy fluctuations of the Sun's radiation upon reaching the teleportation portals were already very close to that of the Bifrost Bridge.

If Sorcerer Russell had not redistributed the Sun's radiation after it passed through the teleportation portals...

Then Jotunheim would not have faced ten Suns appearing in the sky, scorching the earth.

Instead, it would have been attacked by ten Bifrost Bridges.

At that time, Jotunheim would have suffered immense devastation.

The entire Planet could have been destroyed."

Chapter 57 Odin and Loki (Please read)

Destroy Jotunheim?

Thor and Loki looked at each other, both with expressions of shock and lingering fear.

It dawned on them that they had just narrowly escaped death.

If Russell had destroyed Jotunheim, they probably wouldn't have survived either.

The tearing of a World Core would create a massive explosion, and they didn't have the ability to quickly escape Jotunheim.

"But he didn't do that."

Odin continued.

"Killing is merely a means, not an end. Meaningless slaughter cannot bring peace.

Thor, my son, you must remember.

As a king, you must possess strength, but you must also know how to wield it."

After lecturing Thor, Odin's gaze turned to Loki, his eyes complex.

Loki also noticed Odin's gaze and met his eyes.

At this moment, the father and son's gazes were obscure and hard to decipher.

"Go now, my children. There will be a triumphant celebration later; don't forget to attend."

Triumphant? Celebration?

Thor's eyebrows raised, and the corners of his mouth turned up, as if he was about to smile.

Loki discreetly elbowed Thor.

Thor looked at Loki innocently, as if to say, 'Brother, what are you doing?'

Loki, helpless, had no choice but to explain: "It's not for us, it's for Sorcerer Russell."

Odin glared at his simple-minded son, then nodded, indicating that Loki was correct.

For Thor, Loki, and the others, the trip to Jotunheim was a complete failure.

If not for Russell, it would likely have required Odin, the All-Father, to personally intervene to save them.

But even so, the Frost Giants of Jotunheim would not have let it go, and a major war would have been unavoidable.

At that time, the peace between the two realms would have been shattered, and innocent lives would have faced the terror and devastation of war.

It was Russell who single-handedly turned the tide of the battle and forced Laufey to submit, preserving peace between the two realms.

This triumphant celebration was, without a doubt, held for Russell.

Thor and Loki merely rode on his coattails; their failure was omitted from the public narrative.

"Let's go, brother. Let's go back and freshen up."

Loki led the way, departing first, with Thor following.

Watching Thor's receding back, Odin let out a long sigh.

Kamar-Taj, Sorcerer Russell.

He is indeed reliable; he truly acts when needed.

As for his character, mjolnir has even certified it.

However, having something belonging to others is never as good as having it yourself.

He hoped that Thor, after this experience, would broaden his horizons and make some progress.

"Come out, Loki."

"Father."

The air twisted, and Loki's figure appeared.

The one who had just led Thor away was, in fact, merely an illusion he had created.

The two stared at each other for a long time; the air seemed to be frozen by ice.

Finally, Loki spoke first: "Am I cursed?"

"No."

Loki looked directly at Odin, questioning: "What exactly am I?"

"You are my son."

Loki held out his palm, gazed at it for a moment, and continued:

"I touched a Frost Giant in Jotunheim.

After that, my hand became like theirs.

The casket of ancient winters wasn't the only thing you took from Jotunheim that day, was it?"

Odin hesitated for a long time before finally answering:

"That's right. After the battle, I entered the temple and found an infant, a young descendant of the Giant race. Abandoned, suffering, left to fend for himself. He was Laufey's son."

Loki retorted: "Laufey's son?"

"That's right." Odin's voice was low, and he seemed to have more to say.

Loki's expression changed, and he said in disbelief: "Why? You killed countless Jotunheim Giants; why did you take me?"

"You were just an innocent child."

Loki walked towards Odin, pressing closer: "No, you had another purpose for taking me. What was it?"

Odin was silent.

"Tell me!!!"

"I hoped that one day, the two races could unite. Form an alliance, bringing permanent peace through you."

Loki's expression gradually crumbled, losing control: "What?"

Odin's voice carried guilt as he explained: "But all of that is irrelevant now."

Loki's voice was tearful; his World seemed to be collapsing:

"So, I'm just another stolen souvenir? Trapped here, waiting to be used one day."

Odin questioned back, though his tone was not forceful: "Why do you twist my words?"

Loki roared: "You could have told me who I was from the beginning! Why didn't you?"

Odin explained: "You are my son. I just wanted to protect you from being hurt by the truth."

Loki's expression twisted, and he said menacingly: "What? Because I'm the monster parents use to scare their children before bedtime?"

"That's not it."

Loki ignored Odin's denial, his emotions erupting:

"Now everything makes sense. Why you always favored Thor for so many years.

Because no matter how much you claimed to love me, you would never let a Frost Giant sit on Asgard's throne."

Under Loki's relentless questioning, Odin stumbled and fell to the ground.

At this moment, he was no longer the invincible All-Father but a father.

A father who had made a mistake and was being questioned by his son.

Seeing Odin fall to the ground, Loki panicked and instinctively reached out to help him.

"I abandoned my previous plans long ago, Loki. All these years, I have treated you as my true son."

Odin seized the opportunity to grasp Loki's hand, gently comforting him in his ear.

"Perhaps, sometimes I may have been a little biased, but please do not doubt my love for you. Everything I have done has been for my two sons."

The two were silent.

Odin admitted his favoritism.

But this favoritism did not stem from the different identities of his two sons, but from an ancient prejudice within Asgard.

Asgardians desired their royal members to be warriors embodying strength, courage, pride, and confidence, much like Thor.

In contrast, Loki was a Sorcerer, inclined towards control and illusion-making.

Asgardians viewed Sorcerers as outcasts and did not trust them.

As a prince, being a Sorcerer was a disadvantage.

And Loki had realized this.

"So, my childhood had to be spent in competitions I could never win.

You would only test Thor and my strength, speed, and endurance, but never our intelligence and magic."

Odin was silent; the subtle prejudice of Asgardians, who favored warriors and disdained Sorcerers, had influenced him.

It wasn't until five hundred years ago, with the emergence of Sorcerer Ancient One from Kamar-Taj on Midgard, that his prejudice against Sorcerers began to improve.

But... it was too late.

In fact, it wasn't just Odin.

Aside from Frigga, almost all other Asgardians held prejudices against Loki.

This included Thor, Thor's comrades The Warriors Threeand Sif, and Heimdall, the Guardian of the Bifrost Bridge.

And the child who made Russell demonstrate his magiclike a magic show.

However, from today onwards, Asgardians would no longer harbor prejudice against Sorcerers.

Because Russell had arrived.

Chapter 58 Have you heard? That Russell Mage

"Have you heard? That Mage Russell."

"Have you heard? Of the two mages who attended Your Highness Thor's coronation two days ago, the male one, what was his name… Russell."

"He defeated Laufey, the King of the Frost Giants."

"I did hear such news, is it true? They say that Mage Russell is only in his twenties, still just a child.

"How could he possibly defeat the Frost Giant King, who once contended with All-Father Odin?"

"Your news is too outdated. Queen Frigga has already issued an order, preparing for a victory celebration. This is absolutely true."

These were the discussions at an Asgardian banquet.

News like this was spreading rapidly, covering most of Asgard.

Not far away, a group of guards on duty were also discussing this topic.

"It's insane! King Laufey of the Frost Giants wasn't just defeated; he couldn't even take a single move."

"No way, are you sure this news is true?

"The mighty Frost Giant King, defeated in one move? That's too fantastical."

"There's no mistake; I have a friend who's on duty in the infirmary.

"When Fandral, one of The Warriors Three, was being treated for his injuries, my friend heard Fandral say it himself."

"That's too terrifying! What is the background of this Mage Russell, to be able to defeat the Frost Giant King in one move?"

Saying this, the guard lowered his voice.

"How many moves do you think the All-Father would need to defeat the Frost Giant King?"

"Watch your tongue!"

The leading guard captain immediately sternly reprimanded the ignorant guard who dared to speak ill of the All-Father.

After a while, someone whispered:

"He should also be able to defeat King Laufey of the Frost Giants in one move.

"I heard that the Frost Giants lost the casket of ancient winters in the Battle of Tønsberg a thousand years ago.

"Since then, the power of King Laufey of the Frost Giantshas been continuously weakening."

"That makes sense."

"That makes sense."

The guards whispered to each other, nodding in agreement.

Who was King Laufey of the Frost Giants?

He once contended with All-Father Odin on Midgard, and All-Father Odin paid the price of one right eye to defeat him.

If he were in his prime, how could he be defeated in one move?

"But, I heard from a friend that what Mage Russell did in Jotunheim was far more than just defeating King Laufey of the Frost Giants."

Hesitantly, the ignorant guard who had been reprimanded spoke again.

"What? Mage Russell actually defeated King Laufey of the Frost Giants with one punch, sending him flying three thousand meters and spitting five hundred liters of blood! Is that true?"

An Asgardian man couldn't help but exclaim in surprise, questioning the person dressed as a bard in front of him.

The bard raised his hand to quiet him, signaling the man to speak softly, and then lowered his voice, saying:

"I have special channels for information, but I can't say. Those who know, know; those who don't, shouldn't ask. Hehehe."

"Keep going, keep going." The people around urged.

Currently, news about this Mage Russell was flying all over Asgard. It was rare to encounter someone with inside information, and they didn't want to miss out.

The bard smiled and continued:

"That Mage Russell, he cast a single spell, and tens of thousands of Frost Giant warriors all fell to the ground, unconscious."

"How is that possible!"

Hearing the news that Russell, a single mage, wiped out tens of thousands of Frost Giant warriors, the surrounding Asgardians became agitated again.

"Why is it impossible!" The bard's eyes widened.

"Your Highness Thor and the others have returned. Volstagg and Fandral are in the infirmary recovering.

"You just need to ask one of them; would I lie to you?"

The people around looked at each other, no longer shouting loudly.

At this moment, someone muttered, "Our Your HighnessLoki is also a mage; why can't he do that?"

At the mention of Loki, a hint of mockery flashed across many faces.

"Loki, his magic is only good for deceiving people or amusing children."

"Hahahahaha." Saying this, the surrounding Asgardians burst into laughter—except for one Frost Giant.

The bard's lips also curved slightly upward.

Waiting for the laughter to subside, the bard continued:

"This isn't the most terrifying or explosive part.

"This Mage Russell, he comes from Kamar-Taj on Midgard.

"This Kamar-Taj, it is inherited from the Ancient God Agamotto.

"The Ancient God Agamotto, he allied with two other Ancient Gods to form the Trinity God, Vishanti.

"Vishanti, that is the origin of all White magic in the world.

"White magic."

"Stop with all this irrelevant talk! Quickly tell us what other explosive things Mage Russell did."

Listening to the bard's rambling, getting off-topic about Kamar-Taj and Vishanti, the people around immediately stopped him, telling him to get back to the main point.

"Alright."

The bard shook his head helplessly and returned to the main topic.

"That Mage Russell opened ten giant portals in Heimdall's sky. Hey, you know what portals are, right?"

As the bard spoke, his gaze fell on one person in the corner.

"Yes, yes, hurry up and tell us." Everyone urged.

Seeing that person nod, the bard continued:

"On the other side of the portals were ten Suns. Mage Russell drew the light and heat from these ten Suns.

"Through the portals, he released them onto Jotunheim.

"The scene, tsk, tsk, ten Suns in the sky.

"The Frost Giants, they were so scorched they didn't dare to come out.

"Finally, King Laufey of the Frost Giants cried and begged for surrender, which made Mage Russell stop."

"Hiss~"

The onlookers gasped, imagining ten Suns appearing in the sky, feeling an unbearable heat.

After a while, someone reacted and exclaimed, "Wait, King Laufey of the Frost Giants surrendered? How is that possible?!"

A king being defeated, or even instantly killed, was merely a rare event, still possible.

But a Giant King surrendering?

The Asgardians had never heard or seen such a thing.

"Why is it impossible?" The bard retorted, "Tell me, is a king's dignity more important, or the survival of the kingdom?"

Everyone fell silent.

In the hearts of many of them, the answer was naturally that the survival of the kingdom was more important.

But such words were best kept to oneself and not spoken lightly.

"Is there any other news?"

The bard shook his head: "There's no more explosive news, but there are a few fun tidbits. For example…"

Everyone: "?"

"Ice beasts are afraid of ice! Mage Russell froze a Frost Giant beast as tall as a small mountain into an ice sculpture with one palm."

Everyone: "Huh?!"

Seeing that the crowd didn't believe him, the bard repeated, "If you don't believe me, go ask the others who returned."

"Okay, we believe you, what else?"

"And also."

As time passed, the bard could no longer come up with anything new.

The surrounding Asgardians gradually left, leaving only one person.

"Loki, Kamar-Taj, want to know more?"

Chapter 59: Supreme Mage Loki? (Happy National Day)

Loki, Kamar-Taj, interested in learning more?

The bard's form shifted, and in a short while, he reverted to Russell's appearance.

Loki raised an eyebrow. He had known something was off about the bard when the latter had looked at him several times, intentionally or not.

He never expected it to be Russell in disguise.

Thinking back to how the bard had just boasted about Russell, Loki's mouth twitched involuntarily.

"Alright, Master Russell. Let's find somewhere to talk."

Indeed, the one dressed as a bard, boasting about Master Russell's heroic deeds in Jotunheim, was none other than Russell himself.

And his earlier nonsensical diversion of the topic to Kamar-Taj, Agamotto, the Trinity of Vishanti, and the origin of White magic.

It was all a setup for this moment.

After accidentally-on-purpose overhearing Loki's inner thoughts about wanting to recruit him to support his bid for King of Asgard, Russell also set his sights on Loki.

The Sorcerer Supreme Team, of course, the more the merrier.

After waiting for one or two days, Loki still made no move.

Russell decided to take the initiative.

Thus, their accidental meeting today.

Arriving at Loki's palace, Russell observed along the way.

The palace's exterior, like other Asgardian buildings, had towering spires piercing the clouds.

Inside, the palace was vast and cold, with rows of massive stone pillars silently supporting the heavy roof.

As an orphan, Russell knew what this palace lacked—life.

Upon reaching the living room, Russell followed Loki's guidance and found a step to sit on, then slowly began, "Is this your 'house' in Asgard?"

Russell emphasized the word 'house,' implying something deeper.

"Are you here to mock me?" Loki retorted.

Russell shook his head, "I have no such intention. It's just that this palace gives me the same feeling my old house on Earth used to give me. It lacks a human touch."

Loki raised an eyebrow, surprised, "Master Russell, are you also unpopular on Earth?"

Russell shook his head again, "No, I currently have a teacher, a girlfriend, friends, and junior disciples."

"Family?" Loki asked.

Although he didn't understand why Russell sought him out, he didn't mind chatting with Russell.

Or rather, no sorcerer would refuse to chat with a mysterious, powerful sorcerer.

Russell smiled, "I am an orphan."

Loki was puzzled. A powerful sorcerer like Russell could easily trace his origins.

Was there another hidden reason?

No longer dwelling on the question, Loki gave a bitter smile, "I am the exact opposite of you, Russell. I only have family in Asgard, no friends."

But, I am not their biological child.

For a moment, Loki felt only loneliness, his enthusiasm waning, losing the desire to communicate.

Loki dropped the pleasantries and got straight to the point, "Russell, what do you want with me?"

Russell sighed inwardly. He had originally wanted to try to persuade Loki to come to Kamar-Taj with his silver tongue, but he didn't expect to mess it up after only a few sentences.

He lowered his initial goal, changing from directly poaching from Asgard to first building rapport.

Skipping the step of building rapport, Russell directly invited:

"Loki, are you interested in spending some time at Kamar-Taj? The sorcerers there are all good people, and they speak so nicely; I think you'll like it there."

"Go to Kamar-Taj?" Loki's eyes lit up, somewhat tempted.

Odin's Pay attention to for Russell and the Ancient Onewas not lost on Loki.

Befriending Russell and the Ancient One could help Asgard gain allies and stabilize the peace and security of the Nine Realms.

Compared to Thor's reckless attack on Jotunheim, which nearly caused a war, this was more befitting a King.

Furthermore, Loki hadn't forgotten a certain phrase Odinhad said to Thor. As King, one must possess power!

Although unwilling to admit it, Loki knew he could never surpass Thor in terms of strength, speed, or physique.

As for magic, the magic taught by his mother, Frigga, had made him the Nine Realms' foremost sorcerer.

But clearly, this 'Nine Realms' foremost' did not include Russell and the Ancient One of Kamar-Taj.

At this moment, Russell's words as the bard echoed in Loki's mind.

"The Old God Agamotto, the Trinity of Vishanti, the origin of White magic."

Each of these three terms symbolized immense power.

Thoughts raced through his mind, and Loki nodded, "Alright."

Russell smiled faintly, "It's a deal."

As long as he could trick Loki into Kamar-Taj, he had plenty of methods to guide Loki into becoming a qualified, responsible, and capable member of the Sorcerer Supreme Team.

Loki was fundamentally different from the other Asgardians; Loki was a sorcerer.

In Asgard, Loki was an unwelcome sorcerer.

But in Kamar-Taj, he would be a revered master of magic.

Asgard could not give Loki respect, understanding, or trust; Kamar-Taj could!

Odin would not allow a Frost Giant to sit on the throne of Asgard; Russell dared to let Loki succeed as Sorcerer Supreme!

Compared to Asgard, this 'home' that gave Loki a strong sense of dissonance, Kamar-Taj mostly comprised displaced individuals.

There, Loki could gain everything except familial affection.

Odin, as usual, stood in the Golden Hall, overlooking Asgard.

"My King." Frigga's voice came from behind Odin. "Since yesterday, you've been distracted. Has something happened?"

Odin remained silent for a moment before slowly speaking, "Loki knows about his lineage."

"How did he find out? Did the magic fail?"

Frigga was surprised, then quickly realized.

"No, was it the trip to Jotunheim that exposed him to the power of the Frost Giants?"

"Yes." Odin slowly nodded.

"My King, have you been troubled these past two days about how to deal with Loki? He is our son."

Frigga worried, fearing that Odin might disown Loki and harm him.

Odin sighed deeply, "It is precisely because he is our son that I am troubled."

Hearing Odin's statement, Frigga breathed a sigh of relief, then asked, puzzled:

"What's there to be troubled about? Loki has grown up. What does it matter if he knows his heritage? We couldn't keep it from him forever."

"Loki also wants to be King of Asgard."

Odin's tone was helpless.

"But the throne cannot be his. In fact, he cannot even be given a chance to compete."

"Does the King feel he has wronged Loki?" Frigga asked.

Odin was silent.

For him, between King and father, he was first a King.

"Perhaps Loki doesn't actually want to be King of Asgard? He only wants to gain your recognition, to prove that he is no worse than Thor."

Frigga said slowly.

"Perhaps you should give Loki a chance, a chance to prove himself.

You should trust Thor; he is the choice of the Asgardians;

You should also trust Loki; his obsession with power is far less than his love for his family."

Odin looked at Frigga, his eyes narrowed slightly.

He knew that his wife possessed the ability to foresee a corner of the future.

Chapter 60: A Fair Test (National Day Extra 1)

Odin still rejected Frigga's proposal.

"Unsuitable. As a king, I must distinguish between state affairs and family matters.

"Since Thor has been chosen as the successor, his position should not be changed arbitrarily unless he makes a major mistake."

Even if it was just for show.

After a moment of thought, Odin added:

"However, I should indeed give Loki a chance to prove himself."

"What kind of chance? Do you have a plan?" Frigga asked.

At this moment, Odin remembered what Loki had said to him.

'My childhood will be spent in competitions I can never win. You will only test Thor and my strength, speed, and endurance, but not our intelligence and magic.'

'For this test, let the rules favor Loki.'

"I plan to send the two brothers as envoys to Kamar-Tajto strengthen the alliance between Asgard and Kamar-Taj."

Odin stated his plan in a deep voice.

As Russell's combat power was displayed, Kamar-Taj's position in his heart became increasingly important.

Evening arrived, and the celebration began.

The Asgardian royal family also officially announced the theme of the celebration—to commemorate the reconciliation between Asgard and Jotunheim.

What Russell, Thor, Loki, and others did in Jotunheimwas also announced after being embellished.

For a time, Asgard was in an uproar.

When the news of Russell's great defeat of King Laufey of the Frost Giants spread wildly, and the Asgardian royal family made no statement.

The Asgardians guessed that the news was most likely true.

Without their knowledge, their prince, the future monarch Thor.

Led a small team alone to Jotunheim and fought a great battle with the Frost Giants, achieving victory.

The greatest contributor was most likely Sorcerer Russell.

But the news announced by the royal family still made them incredible.

They originally thought that Russell's achievements were exaggerated, but they never expected that they were all completely true.

In fact, it was even more terrifying than the version many people knew.

Well, there are two main versions of Russell's deeds.

One came from Fandral of The Warriors Three, who said it while enjoying himself;

One came from Russell himself, who said it while playing a bard.

The second version has higher authenticity and Degree of restoration.

"Russell!"

"Russell!"

"Russell!"

When Russell and Loki entered together, cheers erupted one after another.

Two days ago, Russell was just an honored guest of the royal family in the eyes of the Asgardians;

Two days later, Russell had become a hero in the eyes of the Asgardians.

Even though he was not an Asgardian.

Russell glanced at Loki beside him, and his face showed undisguised envy, jealousy, and disappointment.

The recognition of the Asgardians that he had sought for a thousand years was obtained by Russell in just two days.

To be precise, it was obtained with just one great victory against the Frost Giants of Jotunheim.

At this moment, Loki suddenly felt a strong desire for war.

He also wanted to defeat the Frost Giants! And even kill King Laufey of the Frost Giants.

Loki's emotions were so strong that Russell, who did not specifically use his telepathic ability, heard them clearly.

'This won't do. For a sorcerer's cultivation, a stable mind is also very important.

'Otherwise, it will be eroded by energy from other dimensions, twisting the mind.

'If one is not careful, one might even become a servant of a Dimensional Demon God.

'If Loki's inner turmoil is not resolved, it will be difficult for him to become a powerful and stable sorcerer.'

Although he was worried, Russell didn't have a very good solution.

Only the heart's cure can heal the heart's illness.

"Thor!"

"Thor!"

"Thor!" Just then, cheers also came from another direction.

Russell looked, and it was Thor, Sif, and The Warriors Three.

Loki also looked over, his expression somewhat unpleasant.

The Asgardians cheered for Russell; although he was envious, he could understand.

After all, it was Russell who turned the tide of the battle by himself.

But Thor?

Why!

He was nothing but a brute, rash and impulsive, almost getting everyone killed in Jotunheim.

Looking at Loki's expression, Russell secretly groaned.

He believed Loki had the potential to become the Sorcerer Supreme, and Loki had a huge advantage over Wanda, Tony, Stephen, and others.

Long lifespan, living a long time.

But now it seemed his character flaws were too great.

'I just want to find a successor in advance so that I can seamlessly transition from on-duty to off-duty. Why is it so difficult?'

"Let's go, Loki. Let's go say hello to Thor and the others."

This should have been said by Loki to Russell, but there was no choice, Loki's state of mind was not very stable right now, so Russell had to say it.

Thor and the others also walked towards Russell and Loki.

Seeing Russell and Loki standing together, a hint of surprise flashed in Sif's eyes.

The group met and greeted each other.

"Brother, why are you with Russell? Are you discussing magic?"

Before Loki could answer, Thor continued.

"Come on, let's go drink. It's a celebration now, let's have some fun."

Saying that, Thor showed his signature smile, motioning for Loki and Russell to go drink on the side.

It has to be said, in terms of charisma.

The sunny and cheerful big boy Thor completely overshadowed the melancholic and gloomy little prince Loki.

Having known each other for only a few days, both of them left a deep impression on Russell.

Coincidentally, the impressions were almost completely opposite.

Like motion and stillness, extroversion and introversion.

Russell recalled a proverb from his hometown.

An orange grown south of the Huai River is an orange; grown north of the Huai River, it is a trifoliate orange.

Perhaps, in a different environment, Loki's problems could be resolved.

"No, this time we'll drink tea," Russell said.

Mead is good, but one big drink is enough.

Russell had no interest in 'wiping out' Asgard again.

The scene returns to Earth, New York.

Having just finished training, Erin caught her breath and asked Matt:

"Matt, how's the investigation into The Hand going? I've noticed you've been distracted during training these past two days."

Matt shook his head and said in a deep voice:

"Not very smoothly. Their influence and protection in New York have been almost completely investigated.

But a portion of their forces are in Japan, and I can't find any information about that side.

With incomplete information, the New York Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation also cannot act against their forces in Japan."

Erin then asked, "So, Matt, what are you going to do?"

Matt replied, "I plan to go there myself and dig out The Hand's forces in Japan."

"Won't that be dangerous?" Erin worried.

They knew nothing about The Hand's situation in Japan. Matt diving in could very likely lead to him getting severely hurt.

"Don't be afraid, I have this." Matt raised his hand.

In his hand was a pager custom-made by Russell, which could not be remotely detonated.

"If I encounter danger, I can call Russell."

As long as it wasn't compared to Russell, Matt was quite confident in his own skills.

He didn't believe that anyone in The Hand could instantly kill him, preventing him from pressing the pager.

There's one more chapter, probably around seven or eight o'clock.