With the immediate threat seemingly resolved, the lingering Dark Elves observed the situation with grim expressions, uncertainty etched across their faces.
"Ethan, eliminate all the invaders," Ben commanded, turning his attention to his 28-year-old son.
"Yes, Dad," Ethan responded with unwavering determination. In a swift motion, he propelled himself towards the Dark Elves, a whirlwind of destruction in his wake. His powers reached new heights as he even seized control of one Stealth Aircraft, bending it to his will.
Within a mere 5-10 minutes, Ethan returned to his previous position with the precision of a seasoned warrior. "Your command has been executed," he reported, his gaze meeting Ben's with a nod of assurance.
The onlookers, including the relieved Asgardians, marveled at the turn of events. The tension that had gripped them began to dissipate, replaced by a collective sigh of relief. The battlefield, once chaotic and fraught with danger, now bore witness to the triumph of the Tennyson legacy.
"The palace will be under repair until next week. In the meantime, I will hold a ceremony to celebrate the end of the battle with the Dark Elves on that day. Everyone will receive the merit they deserve!" Odin announced joyfully, his regal voice resonating through the palace halls.
The anticipation among the Asgardians was palpable, as they wondered who would be recognized for their valor and who might face demerits.
Odin, despite his age, couldn't hide the twinkle in his eye as he contemplated the upcoming ceremony. He was well aware of the contributions of each individual and their role in the victory.
He knew that, due to his advanced age, he found himself on the receiving end of recognition rather than contribution. His thoughts, however, were far from self-pity.
Odin harbored a deep sense of responsibility toward the realm he had ruled for eons. With Sigurd still too young to ascend to the throne, Odin had someone else in mind, a worthy successor, to carry the mantle until the rightful heir was ready.
As the days unfolded, the citizens of Asgard tirelessly worked on the repairs, eager to restore their beloved palace to its former glory.
The air buzzed with anticipation as they prepared for the grand ceremony, where merits would be bestowed upon those who had stood valiantly against the Dark Elves.
Amidst the ongoing repairs in Asgard, Sif Tennyson, her husband Ben by her side and their curious two-year-old son, Sigurd, cradled in Ben's arms, embarked on a guided tour of the celestial realm.
As they strolled through the golden halls, Sif took pride in showcasing the heart of Asgard's power and history.
Their first stop was Odin's Vault, a secure chamber nestled within the palace. "This is Odin's Vault," Sif explained, her voice carrying the weight of history. "It once housed the Eternal Flame, a source of boundless power and a keeper of great secrets."
Sigurd, ever the curious toddler, peered wide-eyed at the wonders around him, his small hands reaching out in fascination as he absorbed the sights and sounds.
Their journey continued to the Hall of Heroes, a place of reverence within Asgard. "Here lies the Hall of Heroes," Sif gestured proudly. "Statues of legendary warriors and heroes stand tall, immortalized for their valor in service to Asgard. Each statue tells a tale of sacrifice and bravery."
As they traversed through the celestial realm, Sif led the way to the formidable Asgardian Vault. "This is the Asgardian Vault," she explained. Guarded by formidable forces, it housed artifacts of unimaginable power. "Within these walls rest treasures like the Tesseract, holding the essence of the Space Stone, and the Casket of Ancient Winters, harboring the chilling power of frost."
Their journey through Asgard continued as Sif guided Ben and Sigurd towards the enchanting Lake of Shadows. "Here lies the Lake of Shadows," Sif explained, gesturing towards the tranquil body of water that reflected the celestial beauty of Asgard.
The trio then ventured into the breathtaking Waterfall Gardens, where cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and vibrant flowers adorned the landscape. "These gardens provide peaceful retreats for the inhabitants of Asgard," Sif described, her words carrying a sense of pride for the realm's natural beauty.
As they explored the Waterfall Gardens, Sif led them to a particularly intriguing sight—a few of the remaining Pegasus. Ben couldn't help but marvel at their otherworldly appearance. The ethereal creatures exhibited coats with unique colors, ranging from shades of silver, white, to black, enhancing their awe-inspiring presence. Their wings, spread majestically, added to the mystical aura surrounding them.
"These Pegasus were once companions to the Valkyrie," Sif explained with a touch of nostalgia. "But after enduring countless wars and losses, some of the Valkyrie departed Asgard. These majestic creatures share a deep bond with their Valkyrie riders, possessing an innate understanding that allows for seamless coordination in battle."
She continued, "The Pegasus can fly, soaring through the skies with agility and speed. Their wings carry them across realms swiftly, covering vast distances. What makes them truly remarkable is their magical resilience."
Their journey through Asgard continued under the guidance of Sif Tennyson, as she led Ben and Sigurd to the awe-inspiring Observatory, as they ascended a mountaintop.
The magnificent structure offered a panoramic view of the cosmos, providing a vantage point for studying the Nine Realms and celestial phenomena.
Next on their exploration were The Royal Gardens of Asgard, meticulously maintained and adorned with exotic flora, vibrant colors, and intricate designs. "These gardens serve as a haven for relaxation and contemplation for the Asgardian royal family," Sif explained. The fragrance of blooming flowers and the vivid hues of the garden offered a respite from the cosmic challenges that often besieged the realm.
Leading them to a secluded corner of the Royal Gardens, Sif revealed a secret place not accessible to everyone. "This is a place of utmost significance," she said with a knowing smile. "As Odin's adopted daughter and a beloved member of the royal family, every corner of Asgard is open to me. Now also to our family."
In this secret haven, she unveiled Yggdrasil, an immense ash tree that spanned the cosmos. "Yggdrasil serves as a conduit between the realms," Sif explained, her voice resonating with reverence. "Its roots extend into the Nine Realms, while its main tree stands tall in Asgard. It represents the interconnectedness of all things, allowing travel and communication between realms." The colossal, majestic tree with branches reaching into the heavens painted a mystical picture of the cosmic forces that bound the universe together.
As the Tennyson family absorbed the wonders of the Royal Gardens and the sacred presence of Yggdrasil, they felt the pulsating heartbeat of Asgard.
Sif Tennyson showed Ben and Sigurd to all of the important places of the Golden City. The metropolis, often referred to as the Golden City or Birnin Zana.
Then Ben goes to Sif's bedroom, after he has toured over all of Asgard, and they are ready for the next day's event, since all over Asgard was completely repaired. The scars of the recent conflict have been healed, and the Golden City once again gleams in all its splendor.
As they looked out over the metropolis, Ben, holding Sigurd in his arms, and hugging Sif while holding her waist, he felt a profound connection to Asgard.