Chapter Twenty-Six: Pikachu Appears
After Thor left, the Grandmaster pondered his next move.
After a moment, he said, "Give him a gold card with one million cosmic coins."
The overweight assistant beside him looked at the Grandmaster in surprise. "Are you sure? Are you being generous?"
The Grandmaster responded with a grim smile, "If he loses, the gold card will come back to me, and giving him more money would be pointless."
"And if he wins?" the assistant asked.
"If he wins, the value he brings will far exceed one million!"
…
Shortly after returning to his quarters, Thor received the gold card. Theoretically, it was enough to buy a small spacecraft and escape. However, receiving the money did not make things easier, and he had promised to compete in at least three matches.
In any case, returning to Earth was not a priority at the moment. It had been eight years since the last major event.
One million coins—Thor bet it all on himself, following his own advice.
Meanwhile, rumors spread throughout Sakaar about an upstart who was foolish enough to challenge the reigning champion in three days. The rumors included various strength analyses, and the general sentiment was that the challenger was as clueless as being kicked by a donkey.
Nebula was frustrated and wanted to find out who was spreading these rumors. After some investigation, she discovered that one source of the gossip was Thor himself.
What was he up to?
…
Three days later, in the arena, Thor strode confidently onto the stage, wielding a giant sword in one hand and a shield in the other.
Facing him was a towering monster with a lizard-like head, standing over eight meters tall. Though the creature bore no weapon, its barbed claws were over a meter long, its thick arms were much thicker than Thor's thighs, and its mouth was filled with sharp fangs.
The monster had a gaping black maw one meter wide. (No, it's not Professor Lizard—don't guess—it's just cannon fodder, a fictional race, as the universe is full of marvels.)
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! Tonight, you will witness the most thrilling matchup!"
The Grandmaster's voice echoed, eliciting cheers from over 100,000 spectators.
The Grandmaster continued, "The defending champion needs no introduction. He is the reigning Tyran Rex, having won 66 consecutive battles! His skin is tougher than steel, and ordinary swords can't pierce it.
He... and his sharp claws have already dispatched 66 challengers!"
He then shifted focus, "Now, let me introduce today's challenger—the electrifying Mr. Pikachu!"
Well he choose Pikachu as his arena codename . A tribute to his previous life's childhood
The crowd's reaction was overwhelming, even drowning out the roar of the lizardman.
In terms of size and appearance, Thor, at less than two meters tall, was no match for the lizardman. The long sword he wielded might not even pierce the creature's skin, and the shield seemed as flimsy as paper against its sharp claws.
Many spectators began placing bets. Thor's odds were extremely high, at 1 to 123.
The odds might have been even higher if not for the fact that Nebula had bet one million on Thor. The Grandmaster, ever the opportunist, had also bet one million himself.
Amid the cheers of the crowd, the lizardman charged forward, eager to rip the "ant" apart.
Thor rolled to evade its sharp claws, which smashed into the ground. Thor raised his shield, and with several heavy "bangs," nailed the claws to the ground like spikes.
The lizardman struggled to free its claws, roaring in fury.
Thor wasted no time. He lifted his sword and leaped high, diving into the gaping maw of the lizardman.
As the audience gasped, the lizardman let out a muffled sound, its massive body freezing. Moments later, a large hole appeared at the back of its neck, and flesh and blood flew out. Thor emerged, electrified and triumphant.
"Boom—" The giant fell to the ground, and Thor sheathed his sword.
The arena fell silent for a moment before erupting into deafening cheers.
…
Chapter Twenty-Seven: Resurrection
In the VIP room, several attendants were giving Thor a massage.
The Grandmaster had thoughtfully sent attendants who met human aesthetic standards. If Thor wanted anything, they would certainly comply.
However, Thor maintained his principles, especially with a beautiful young woman constantly eyeing him...
Nebula walked in. "Hey, when are we leaving?"
Thor didn't respond immediately; he glanced at the task bar that had just appeared.
"Congratulations, Host, for triggering the Grandmaster's exclusive mission: Power and Glory—nothing showcases a man's romance like a hearty duel!"
"Mission Objective: Win 300 consecutive battles in Sakaar's arena. Mission Reward: Active Skill - Resurrection."
"Resurrection: Resurrect a target deceased for less than 30 hours, with a one-year cooldown."
"Note: Due to the Infinite Gems, the dead cannot be resurrected, and those who have naturally died cannot be resurrected."
Fewer words often mean a better reward. The ancients weren't wrong. The simple resurrection technique, though limited, is still the strongest reward Thor has encountered since the system was activated.
While it may seem inferior to the Time Gem, the Time Gem has a significant limitation: the stronger the target controlled by time, the greater the requirement for the gem user's strength.
For instance, Strange could easily reverse time on an entire street with the gems, saving countless lives from accidents.
Yet, the Ancient One cannot use the gems to extend her own life.
She would rather use Dormammu's dark power to quench her thirst with poison.
The "resurrection" skill, however, does not have this limitation. Its only downside is the lengthy cooldown.
Thor knew this was a power the Grandmaster possessed in the 616 universe. In the 199999 universe he now occupied, the Grandmaster was more of a joke.
Winning 300 games in a row seemed like a long-term task, meaning Thor would need to stay in Sakaar for an extended period.
Thor turned to Nebula and asked, "Is there anywhere you want to go?"
Nebula shook her head. Her homeland had been completely destroyed long ago due to her resistance to Thanos' half-destruction policy. Following Thor was partly because she had no clear direction for her future.
Thor smiled and said, "Then we'll rest here for a while. For ordinary people, this place might seem like hell. But for us, living on this chaotic planet is often easier. What do you think?"
Nebula nodded.
The night before, two men in a bar had tried to pick a fight with her after failing to engage in conversation.
Ultimately, she had dispatched them and fed their remains to the fish.
The local law enforcement, upon learning she was affiliated with Thor, had quickly deferred to her and escorted her inside.
This had been gratifying for her.
In an orderly planet, such matters would have been much more troublesome.
Thanks to the previous bet, Nebula had returned with over 100 million cosmic coins and purchased a mansion not far from the arena as a temporary residence.
It was a pity there would not be such favorable odds in the future...
…
Three days later, Thor participated in the second match, delivering a single thunderous strike...
A week later, in the third game, his opponent was a brutish fighter. With sufficient strength, Thor's sword cut through people, armor, and shields, piercing the heart...
A very impressive "Mr. Pikachu" had appeared in Sakaar, ending the winning streak and showcasing remarkable skills. More spectators flocked to watch, filling every seat.
…
"Boom—" A true man never looks back at an explosion. Amid the cheering crowd, Thor sheathed his weapon and headed toward the exit.
"Ahhh, Pikachu is my hero!!!"
"Darling, I want to have a child with you!!!"
Thor glanced over and noticed the person shouting was an alien beauty with a human body and a bull's head. Her enthusiastic declaration made him quicken his pace.
As he passed the Grandmaster's office, he suddenly heard, "Scavenger 142, there is something for you."
He saw a robust, black woman with a strong smell of alcohol walking towards him...
Scavenger 142? Was that the surviving Valkyrie?
Chapter Twenty-Eight: Valkyrie
Many years ago, Asgard was embroiled in a family drama... a palace coup, where Odin, who maintained a facade of compliance, launched an internal assault and sent a powerful force—the Valkyries—to confront Hela.
Unlike the Valkyries depicted in Norse mythology, who are often romanticized as benefactors of warriors, each of the real Valkyries was a formidable warrior and represented the third most powerful force after Odin and Hela.
However, Hela's strength was overwhelming, and her Hela's Crown was a super artifact rivaling Mjölnir.
After a fierce battle, the Valkyries were nearly annihilated, leaving only one survivor, while the vast powers consumed by Hela were also sealed by Odin.
Consumed by unwillingness to be defeated and guilt over her fallen comrades, the last Valkyrie Brunnhilde chose to end her life.
However she was saved by her lover and couldn't waste her sacrifice , a to escape her torment, she fled to Sakaar, where she became one of the Grandmaster's main fighters, known as Scavenger No. 142.
To this day, the Valkyries has become a legend in Asgard.
Watching the Valkyrie enter the Grandmaster's office to negotiate, Thor followed suit.
"Hi, friend, you're here!" The Grandmaster greeted enthusiastically and reached for a hug, but Thor quickly stepped back.
Thor was now the Grandmaster's prized asset—brilliant thunder, exceptional physical skills, immense strength, and agility that belied his size, making him a major attraction.
The Grandmaster was convinced that even if Thor were to embroider flowers in the arena, there would be a crowd willing to pay to see it.
Greeting the Grandmaster, Thor turned to the Valkyrie and said, "Shall we talk somewhere else?"
A powerful Valkyrie is a crucial asset for the current Asgard.
"I don't think there's much to discuss."
"Yes, because you are a Valkyrie."
The Valkyrie's expression hardened: "No, I am not a Valkyrie. I am a scavenger."
"You are running away! Running away won't solve anything!" Thor exclaimed.
"Um, I believe I should weigh in," the Grandmaster interjected. "If there is a misunderstanding between you and His Highness, it's important to discuss it and consider how to resolve it."
The Grandmaster was clearly siding with Thor.
"You are Odin's son? No wonder.
Your Highness, I fear you will be disappointed.
I will not partake in your family drama.
That was the reason I lost everything last time.
Therefore, whatever happens in Asgard now, I no longer care."
The Valkyrie's agitation was palpable.
The Grandmaster rubbed his forehead, seemingly regretting his intervention.
Thor was pondering his response when a system task suddenly appeared.
"Congratulations, Host, for triggering the exclusive quest for the Valkyrie: Brave Souls—Once, the Valkyries were the mightiest warriors of Asgard, but their strength was drained by civil war. Now, you must liberate their souls and grant them redemption!"
"Mission Objective: Redeem the 28 Valkyries who were sacrificed. Mission Reward: Artifact, Soul Castle."
"Soul Castle: The interior features a vast hall that can guide the souls of deceased Valkyries and allow them to enter the Soul Castle. The heroic spirits will attach to the host and can be reborn in the Soul Castle after death."
This means Thor could potentially restore this Valkyrie guard?
Thor's expression darkened as he said: "You are right, the sword of the Valkyries is meant to protect Asgard and its people, not to be wielded for power struggles."
"But are you aware that Ragnarök is approaching, and if we cannot overcome this challenge, Asgard will be utterly destroyed?"
He looked at the Valkyrie's darkened expression and added, "For the future of Asgard, I am willing to negotiate with Hela, so souls of your sisters can be redeemed, and the prestige of the Valkyries can be restored in Asgard!"
Chapter Twenty-Nine: The Eve of a New Era
What is Valkyrie's greatest wish?
Revenge? No, her feud with Hela isn't particularly personal. The campaign against Hela ended in defeat, and what she despised most was not Hela but Odin.
What truly devastated her was the loss of her sisters, the destruction of the Valkyrie army, and Odin's concealment of everything related to Hela, including this chapter of history.
If the goal was merely to reconcile with Hela, she would never agree. However, if it could lead to the salvation of her sisters, that would be a different matter.
She thought for a moment and said, "If what you say is true, I will consider serving Asgard again once you inherit the throne. But don't expect me to participate in any further royal family conflicts."
That was satisfactory. "Alright, at least ten more years. I'm not in a hurry."
The Grandmaster's expression shifted slightly.
He was concerned that the valuable gladiator might just leave with Valkyrie, and he and Thor were only in a cooperative relationship, so he had no authority to prevent it...
But since there's no immediate rush, there's no need to worry.
After a few years, even the best gladiator can become mundane.
…
Thor settled into life on Sakaar, competing in an average of one match every other week.
There are actually very few formidable opponents in the universe.
The "Tyran Rex" he faced for the first time was already among the strongest.
Most opponents were relatively weak.
Even Nebula, who was still developing, could handle them easily.
Yet Thor still graciously gave them a chance to showcase their skills...
A super gladiator who can both fight and entertain brings substantial benefits. The Grandmaster stated that he particularly appreciates such individuals.
Later, at Thor's suggestion, the Grandmaster introduced a new rule—any prisoner or slave who won 30 consecutive matches would be granted freedom, along with substantial wealth, beauty, and power. Whenever this situation arose, ticket sales for the arena would increase dramatically.
Thor was the 30th opponent...
Nebula gradually adapted to this comfortable life.
In her free time, she would also participate in the arena to display her skills.
To encourage more participants, slaves were prohibited from killing free gladiators, and the restraints around their necks could be activated at any moment.
…
Meanwhile, back in Asgard, Thor's disappearance had garnered significant attention.
Loki often taunted the three warriors, Fandral, Hogun, and Volstagg. The three Asgardian warriors despised him, but they were unable to best him in combat.
Loki: I just enjoy the feeling when you want to defeat me but can't!
Sif and Maya Hansen were initially very worried and consulted the queen. Although Frigga reassured them, they remained uneasy. Fortunately, Thor later sent them a message, which eased their concerns.
For the long-lived Sif, this period of uncertainty was nothing to worry about as long as communication was maintained. As for Maya Hansen, she often ignored Thor for months when engrossed in her research.
…
In Odin's assessment, Thor was not in danger, so he remained indifferent.
Let the boy face the world's challenges...
…
Time moved to 2005.
Odin had long awoken from his Odinsleep, but he did not mention Thor. Frigga also kept silent.
On Earth, Mjölnir continued to rest quietly; Stark persisted in his playboy lifestyle, unaware of the increasingly unbearable presence of a lurking threat; General Ross's super soldier program had stalled, and he was growing impatient.
His daughter, Betty Ross, was graduating from college this year and planned to join his military experiment team after graduation.
Everything appeared tranquil.
At this moment, no one could foresee that this might be the last peaceful period on Earth.
A new era was approaching.
Chapter Thirty: The Fat Thor Is Over
"Congratulations to the host for completing the task—strength and glory, and receiving the reward: resurrection!"
In the arena, Thor kicked aside the corpse of an alien creature lying on the ground.
After nearly five years, the 300-match winning streak was finally achieved.
During these years, not only did Thor complete his mission, but his skills also significantly improved, and he became proficient in various fighting styles.
Counting the time, the official events are about to unfold, and Thor is preparing to leave.
He had previously informed the Grandmaster of his plans, so he would be returning to Nebula directly. Thanks to Thor's popularity, the arena's revenue had been exceptionally high in recent years.
Especially after Thor's weight dropped and he even display his , it attracted many spectators who were less concerned about the arena's fights...
Both parties were satisfied with the arrangement. Although the Grandmaster was not exactly a virtuous individual, at least he was quite entertaining as long as there was no conflict of interest. Moreover, Thor himself was not exactly a paragon of virtue...
Returning to his quarters, Nebula emerged with anticipation and asked, "How did it go? When are we heading to Asgard?"
Now fully grown, Nebula exuded a wild charm, as she had not undergone the mechanical transformations seen in the original story. She looked like her actress that portrayed her and her blue colour added a exotic novelty.
Over the past few years, they had been together day and night, and their bond had naturally deepened.
In a foreign land, a heroic man and a rescued dame ...
Now, Nebula had a much cheerier demeanor. Looking at Thor, she was genuinely eager to visit Asgard, hoping to meet his parents, Odin and Frigga.
…
Thor called out, "Heimdall, take us back."
Years ago, Odin had lifted Thor's exile. Originally, Odin wanted him to experience society's harshness to return stronger. However, Thor had adapted remarkably well outside...
A dazzling beam of light shot through the sky, and Thor and Nebula disappeared.
The Grandmaster watched from a distance. Honestly, he missed this. It was uncertain when he would meet another partner who was both intriguing and profitable...
…
"Finally, we're back!" Thor exclaimed, giving Heimdall a hearty bear hug.
Upon returning to Asgard, Sif and Maya Hansen rushed to greet him and encountered Nebula.
As a newcomer, Nebula naturally had no complaints or objections.
Sif and Maya Hansen were well-acquainted with Asgard's customs and knew how stringent they could be.
At some feasts, disputes might break out over minor issues, and those who won would often flee...
In the past few centuries, Queen Frigga's firm insistence had led to a slight increase in civility... Compared to these space Vikings, the crown prince, he was practically a model citizen...
More importantly, Sif and Maya Hansen were not simply attached to men; they each had their own careers. In Thor's absence, they could focus more on their work...
If they were the type to revolve solely around men, they would likely have exploded after five years...
Loki emerged with his usual smirk and taunted, "Brother, I didn't expect you to still be alive. I thought you were dead..." After observing Thor's figure, he added, "Wow, I suddenly believe that you spent five years on a vegetarian diet!"
Weakling, you are pushing limit every day!
As they approached the palace, the atmosphere grew noticeably more serious. At the palace gate, Frigga looked at Thor with concern.
"Once you go in, don't—don't anger your father!" She would never forget Odin's fearsome look when he had last emerged.
She had only seen that expression once before, the last time...
Thor understood and followed Frigga into the hall.
Frigga seldom entered the hall, but today, she had no choice but to go in!
As they entered the hall, Thor narrowed his eyes.
Odin sat on the throne with a grave expression, adorned in golden armor and holding the weapon that had been his companion for many millennia.
The Gungnir.
…