Chapter 158 - 4

Fifteen years had passed since Solvarg Odinson captured the Tesseract back in 2010 Earth time. This year, Thor had been exiled to Earth by Odin for initiating an unauthorized conflict with the Giants of Jotunheim, which angered his father. Meanwhile, Odin had fallen into a deep sleep, leaving Frigga deeply troubled by the ongoing conflict between her husband and son. Her other son, Loki, was constantly plotting against Thor, adding to her worries.

Frigga was not only saddened but also overwhelmed. She needed to constantly watch over Odin while being concerned for Thor, who was now vulnerable without his powers. Therefore, she asked Heimdall to send a message, hoping to return to Asgard to see her family and, if possible, to look after Thor.

Frigga and Solvarg occasionally communicated through Heimdall. She was confident that Solvarg had the strength to protect Thor. Given that the universe was not currently facing major upheavals, it would be difficult for Solvarg to refuse Frigga's request. Even without her plea, Solvarg would have visited Earth. Though there were no significant disturbances in the universe, Earth held many hidden opportunities that fit into Solvarg's plans. It was advantageous for him to remain on Earth for a time.

Accompanied by Brunnhilde, Solvarg nodded to Heimdall, who then used the Bifrost to teleport them directly to Asgard. Despite having the coordinates, Asgard was no simple place to access. It was situated deep in the universe, akin to a lofty throne, not a planet or a galaxy. It was a continent sustained and crafted through the highest level of magic or technology—a realm where gods resided. Finding Asgard was challenging, and it was fiercely guarded.

Small squads might sneak in through hidden passages, but large armies relied on the Bifrost for entry and exit. Anyone facing Asgard's godly might might meet their end! However, that was once upon a time. Odin reigned supreme, with Hela by his side, defending the realm against all threats. Asgard's elite forces made it nearly impregnable. Enemies rarely dared to attack Asgard; it was usually Asgard that struck first.

But now...

Solvarg stood atop the Bifrost, gazing at Asgard's radiant beauty. The sun's glow surrounded it. Apart from Odin, few Tier 4 powers existed in Asgard, and Tier 3 fighters were scarce—Immortal Queen and Heimdall were notable exceptions. Loki, despite his magical prowess, was merely a third-tier player. Even the Hulk would feel inadequate against him. This was indeed embarrassing for the Protoss.

"Brunnhilde," Solvarg turned to her, "Can you imagine taking down Asgard alone if our King of Gods remains dormant?"

After years of training, Brunnhilde's god of war abilities had ascended to Tier 4, making her a formidable force. Even Thor with Mjölnir wouldn't stand a chance against her now.

"Impossible," Brunnhilde scoffed. "Even without the King of Gods, Tyr, Baldur, and Hodr, along with Asgard's elite, are beyond my reach. The Valkyrie Legion's fate serves as a reminder of Asgard's might."

In Brunnhilde's eyes, Asgard remained the unassailable guardian of the gods. Odin's reluctance to deploy powerful gods against Hela had led to the Valkyrie Legion's demise. She had always believed that Odin could have sent more powerful gods to pursue Hela. However, since Baldur and Hodr were both Hela's elders, Odin refrained from sending them out. Ultimately, this decision led to the demise of the Valkyrie Legion, sparking family strife and internal rebellion. She couldn't help but wonder why the royal family of Asgard didn't handle it themselves instead of involving the entire Valkyrie Legion.

This dissatisfaction with Odin and the Asgardian royal family had lingered in Brunnhilde's mind. Solvarg sighed, glancing at the speechless Heimdall.

In a quiet tone, Solvarg asked, "Ever wondered where your God of War power came from?" He then remarked, "And now, Heimdall is the new Guardian of Asgard!"

"Only him?" Brunnhilde queried, eyeing the serious Heimdall.

"I could take on ten!" Brunnhilde declared confidently. "But the power of the God of War..." Her voice trailed off as she began to contemplate.

Perhaps the rebellion of the year was far more complex than it seemed. If there were no mishaps, Asgard's elite legion and powerful gods wouldn't simply vanish into thin air.

The soldiers guarding Asgard failed to recognize Solvarg, who had been absent from Asgard for years. After all, Solvarg, much like Hela, was a taboo figure in Asgard. Nonetheless, under Heimdall's lead, Solvarg and Brunnhilde managed to make their way directly outside Odin's bedroom.

"Has Asgard weakened to this extent?" Brunnhilde couldn't help but express her disbelief. "Do I still have something to believe in?"

The sights and sounds along the way stirred emotions within Brunnhilde. Asgard's current state of vulnerability was undeniable.

Heimdall felt a pang of embarrassment beside them, resentful of Solvarg's underestimation of Asgard. Despite this, Brunnhilde had to maintain a serious and silent demeanor in front of others. Witnessing so much and understanding too well meant learning to keep silent.

Almost everyone had forgotten that Heimdall used to be quite talkative. However, since inheriting the position of Patronus, silence had become his only choice.

Outside Odin's palace, the most elite Asgard Guards stood watch. Even Heimdall couldn't bypass them directly. Queen Frigga had not come out to meet Solvarg. One guard, eyes widening, stared at Solvarg's face. It was an Asgardian warrior who had encountered Solvarg and lived to tell the tale.

"His Royal Highness, the eldest prince?" the Asgard Guard asked in disbelief.

"Does anyone remember me?" Solvarg quipped. "Looks like I left quite the impression, eh? My dear mother, it's been a while!" He said with a smile, glancing at the hurrying Queen Frigga.

Queen Frigga stood as regal and warm as Solvarg remembered, with her softly curled blonde hair and light blue gown reminiscent of Roman elegance. She always wore a kind, tolerant smile that made everyone feel welcome.

Frigga stepped forward, enveloping Solvarg in a heartfelt embrace. Her voice held a hint of excitement as she said, "Solvarg, I knew you'd return!"

"You've grown so much," she continued, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You were always wise, even as a child. I've always known you were destined to become a remarkable god. I am so proud of you , I am sure your father will be too!"

Solvarg's expression grew more complex at the mention of Odin. He replied, "In the future, you'll be even prouder because I will only become stronger. And about Father? Would the great King of Gods be proud of an exile?"

Frigga's gaze softened. "He has always been proud of you, and he will always be your father, no matter what." She gave Solvarg another warm hug.

After a moment of silence, Solvarg said, "You will always be my mother." From the moment he was born, Frigga had showered him with love and care. Despite his exceptional wisdom from birth, it never mattered to her. In her eyes, Solvarg was always her cherished child, regardless of his extraordinary abilities or the distance between them.

Odin, on the other hand, was often absorbed in battles and rarely had the chance to bond with Solvarg. There was no emotional connection between them. Odin had even imprisoned his daughter, Hela, indefinitely for reasons unknown, and had once banished Thor in a fit of anger, all in the name of maintaining peace. Odin's primary concern was always Asgard, and his family—whether lover or child—was expected to sacrifice for the sake of their realm. His authority as a ruler was unquestionable, but as a husband and father, he fell short. Solvarg had long seen through Odin's shortcomings and remained dissatisfied with him.

After their heartfelt reunion, Frigga pulled Brunnhilde aside with a knowing smile and started a private conversation. She seemed eager to guide Solvarg and Brunnhilde towards Odin's chambers. Although Odin's chambers were secure, Frigga wished to stay close to her husband's resting place. Even in his deep sleep, Odin remained partially aware of his surroundings and wished to meet the present-day Solvarg. As the second most powerful being in the universe, Solvarg ruled over an influential superpower that could potentially benefit Asgard.

Despite this, Solvarg declined Frigga's request, expressing his current lack of desire to see Odin. Even though Odin was in a deep slumber and could not converse, Solvarg chose to avoid him. Frigga simply gazed at Solvarg with her tender eyes, making it difficult for him to resist her gentle plea.

"It's really futile. Just go inside and see Odin for yourself," Frigga urged.

Solvarg thought helplessly that rejecting Frigga was indeed difficult.

"My dear mother, who are these two? Could you introduce me?" he asked.

Loki's sudden appearance interrupted Frigga's warm gaze. The two strangers, escorted by Heimdall, proceeded straight to Odin's chambers. As the acting ruler of Asgard, Loki rushed in. Frigga warmly embraced him, then gestured toward Solvarg, saying, "Loki, this is Solvarg, your brother, along with Thor!" She then pointed to Brunnhilde and added, "And this valkyrie is closely connected with your brother."

"Solvarg, Loki is your brother. Can you lend a hand here?" Frigga asked.

Loki stood frozen, taken aback by the sudden revelations. He struggled to process the information, his surprise evident. "What? He's my brother? And a valkyrie?"

He stared at Solvarg and Brunnhilde with suspicion, especially since Frigga had always been a powerful magic wielder with immense spiritual energy. Loki had never heard of an older brother, and with the current situation being so sensitive—Odin incapacitated and Thor banished—Loki wondered if Solvarg was here to claim the throne of Asgard.

As Loki pondered these thoughts, he eyed Solvarg and Brunnhilde warily. Solvarg, noticing Loki's suspicion, glanced at Heimdall with a knowing grin.

"In Asgard, do they really ignore ordinary Joes? Loki, as the acting ruler, doesn't even recognize me?" Solvarg mused.

"What is going on in Asgard?" Solvarg wondered. The Cosmic Mercenary Union had its reach throughout the universe, and he had been making significant waves. Yet, the acting ruler of Asgard seemed utterly indifferent.

Solvarg was taken aback by Loki's reaction.

Here's the revised chapter, integrating your specific changes and adjustments for clarity, consistency, and appropriateness while maintaining the original plot and content:

Heimdall observed Loki's barely concealed hostility toward Solvarg. Even the slightest movements from Loki were perceptible to everyone present.

Heimdall spoke with gravity, "This is the will of the king of the gods! Since I inherited the role of Guardian of the Bifrost, Asgardians will no longer have access to information beyond the Nine Realms unless personally permitted by Odin. Only a few, like myself, can reach beyond."

Solvarg, increasingly puzzled by Odin's decisions, reflected silently. Clearly, something significant had happened in the past, but that was Odin's concern, not his anymore.

He glanced at Loki, then turned to Frigga as she began reminiscing about Solvarg's childhood.

Solvarg interrupted, his tone a mix of amusement and frustration, "Mother, perhaps you could share something more recent about me, rather than just my childhood tales!"

He looked at Loki, his tone lightening, "And Loki, for Mother's sake, let's keep things calm. I've lost all interest in Asgardian affairs."

"After all," he chuckled dryly, "I'm no longer part of Asgard, nor am I Odin's son anymore."

"Asgard today," he added, "Mother, it might be wise to train more elite soldiers. Asgard seems too vulnerable these days. I'd hate for the news of an enemy attack to reach me, only to leave me and my sister in stitches from laughter."

"I have no clue what that Almighty King has been up to for a thousand years!" he continued.

"What's up, sis?" Solvarg asked.

Loki was utterly bewildered.

"Wait, do I even have a sister?" Loki questioned.

Frigga shot a sharp glance at Solvarg, seemingly blaming him for suddenly revealing Hela's existence.

Hela was no better than Solvarg. She led a rebellion and was sealed in hell forever by Odin himself. Odin hadn't passed away, and neither had Hela. This gave Frigga a headache as she pondered whether to bring up Hela with Loki.

But Loki had already yanked Frigga aside, disguised as a surprise baby, and Solvarg chuckled, remarking to Heimdall, "Alright, teleport me and Brunnhilde to Midgard, where I apparently have a dim-witted little brother who needs babysitting!"

"Oh, and dear brother Loki, make sure to keep an eye on the entire universe!" Solvarg added. "Lastly, don't go messing things up and disappointing me!"

With that, Solvarg shot Loki a meaningful glance before following Heimdall's lead. They were whisked away to Earth via the Bifrost.

As for Loki, although he caught the significance in Solvarg's gaze, he was too preoccupied questioning Frigga to dwell on it just yet.

In New Mexico, Solvarg and Brunnhilde returned to Earth in a flash of brilliant light.

"I swear, the Bifrost is blindingly bright now. Why can't we just teleport casually like this all the time? I mean, you can do it!" Brunnhilde griped.

"I certainly could, but Asgard isn't a place where you can just teleport willy-nilly. Plus, I'd rather not mess with Asgard's defenses," Solvarg replied nonchalantly. "That stare gets under my skin," he added. To him, Frigga's gentle gaze was the most potent weapon in the world.

"Anyway, the queen is quite something," Brunnhilde remarked, recalling some of the whispers Frigga had shared with her. Then, with enthusiasm, she exclaimed, "Wow, Midgard, here we are again!"

"I can already smell the Midgardian wine."

"Don't get your hopes up about drinking; my dim-witted brother still needs tending to, and I have other matters to attend to!" Solvarg said, gently patting Brunnhilde, then gazed into the void, silently questioning, "Why didn't you reveal yourself to me, Ancient One?"

"It appears she cannot foresee my entire future after all."

Solvarg resolved to first introduce Brunnhilde to Thor before attending to his own affairs.

In the desert of Mexico, S.H.I.E.L.D. agents were already in pursuit of Solvarg and Brunnhilde, having detected significant energy surges from the Bifrost.

"Halt! Who goes there?" one agent demanded.

"Why are you trespassing?" another agent added.

A S.H.I.E.L.D. agent intercepted Solvarg along the way.

Solvarg didn't bother concealing his presence; in today's world, there was no one worthy enough for him to evade. "Phil Coulson," Solvarg replied with a subtle smile, glancing knowingly at the renowned elder Phil Coulson.

"And who might you be?" the agent inquired.

"Perhaps you could call me a deity," Solvarg quipped.

"Identify yourself and your origins immediately, or else—" the agent started, but before he could finish, Solvarg swiftly teleported with Brunnhilde, leaving the agents baffled.

"How is this even possible?" one agent exclaimed, examining the spot where Solvarg and Brunnhilde had vanished, finding no trace of their departure.

Phil Coulson meticulously surveyed the area, taking several photographs before calmly contacting his superior. It seemed another extraterrestrial visitor had made an appearance.

Outside a residence in Mexico, Solvarg employed light manipulation to conceal himself and Brunnhilde.

"Why didn't you simply confront those Midgardians directly?" Brunnhilde inquired suspiciously.

"To meet someone, one must sometimes employ a different approach, akin to angling for a fish," Solvarg replied with a cryptic smile, then directed his gaze toward the house.

Inside, a burly man with blond hair, blue eyes, and a beard, wearing a small apron, tended to a mortal woman.

"Is he your brother?" Brunnhilde sneered, her disdain evident. She held little regard for Asgardian royalty other than Solvarg, especially now that Thor had lost his powers.

"Seems even he has taken a liking to a mortal," she remarked.

"It's a fitting match for him in his current state," Solvarg said, watching Thor and Jane, seemingly immersed in a blissful romance.

"Yet, between gods and mortals, there can be no lasting outcome," he added with a meaningful tone.

From the outset, Solvarg Odinson had doubts about whether Jane Foster and Thor's relationship would endure. He questioned if their love was truly genuine. When Jane first encountered Thor, he was in the midst of his greatest trials. Stripped of his divine powers, abandoned by Mjölnir, and misled by Loki into believing he was at odds with his father, Thor faced a period of profound hardship. As a prince accustomed to constant admiration and shielded from serious adversity, he was unprepared for such a downfall.

His life, relatively peaceful over the past millennium, had rendered small challenges almost laughable. With Mjölnir in hand, his combat prowess approached near fourth-tier levels. His string of victories and endless accolades had imbued him with a sense of invincibility. Confronted with any obstacle, he acted with reckless confidence, convinced that no one could rival him. The mighty rulers of the Nine Realms either capitulated to him or were vanquished, their powers stripped and their spirits broken. This led to Thor's carefree and overly combative demeanor over the centuries.

Odin, understanding the intricacies of the Nine Realms and the universe, remained unfazed. Yet, he recognized that if he were to pass away, Thor's impulsive nature and current weakness could spell doom for Asgard. Thus, a trial was devised, intended not merely to challenge Thor but to make him confront his vulnerabilities and understand the necessity of peace—even if no other lessons were learned.

The plan was straightforward: allow Thor to live as a mortal for a time, stripped of his divine powers and battered by life. Mjölnir would then return to him, restoring his godhood. This was Odin's challenge, but Thor remained oblivious to these machinations. At his lowest ebb, Thor even despaired of his future. Jane stood before him, her face etched with concern.

"Take care of him, nurture him, and support him," Jane implored. "Provide him with shelter and sustenance." Stripped of his godhood, Thor lacked even the means for basic survival. His infatuation with Jane, akin to Stockholm syndrome or the drawbridge effect, was profound. He was ready to forsake his throne and responsibilities for her, though he struggled to grasp the full scope of his situation.

Jane's affection was driven by curiosity about Thor's identity, his striking appearance, and robust physique. If Thor were truly a mortal without identity, education, or means of employment, could Jane realistically support him indefinitely? Curiosity is fleeting. Jane, being perpetually mortal, could not offer Thor the permanence he was accustomed to. Thor might live for millennia, but could he accept Jane's eventual aging? Or could Jane, aged and frail, find solace in the company of a timeless, vigorous Thor? The incompatibility between mortals and gods was apparent unless mortals ascended to divinity or gods descended to humanity.

After centuries in Asgard, Solvarg had long recognized this truth.

"What's our next move?" Brunnhilde asked impatiently, her eyes set on a drink.

"Impossible. I've pledged to care for him, not to act as his caretaker. Let him be for now," Jane replied firmly.

"I believe once Loki understands the complexities of this universe, he won't recklessly unleash the Destroyer. We have other matters to address," Solvarg asserted. With that, he marked Thor's location on a map as a precautionary measure and departed from Mexico, traveling wherever he pleased. As for Loki's potential mischief, Heimdall remained vigilant, his gaze fixed upon Loki, alert for any signs of trouble.

Back in Stark's mansion, Tony Stark had just repelled a relentless attack from the mourning whip, and he and Pepper Potts rekindled their affection amidst a romantic setting of music, candles, and dancing.

"Oh, pardon the interruption, but if you continue," Solvarg interjected, his expression flat, "I don't mind waiting, but others might not appreciate the show!" He casually seated himself on a nearby sofa, disabling a surveillance camera outside Stark's residence—S.H.I.E.L.D.'s ever-watchful eye over Stark.

"Who are you?" Tony asked, his demeanor unshaken by Solvarg's sudden appearance. He positioned Pepper safely behind him and readied his suit.

"Relax, no harm intended," Solvarg said casually, though Tony remained cautious. "Otherwise, you'd have met your match long before or after donning that iron suit, countless times over!"

As J.A.R.V.I.S. scanned for intel, Brunnhilde helped herself to a bottle of fine wine from Tony's stash, prompting Tony's permission without hesitation.

"Go ahead," Tony said, unfazed.

"Much obliged," Brunnhilde replied with a smile, uncorking the bottle and enjoying its contents.

"Global network's up; no luck identifying them," J.A.R.V.I.S. reported promptly.

"Care to enlighten us? What's your game?" Tony demanded, aiming a laser cannon at the duo.

"I come in peace, merely seeking conversation," Solvarg assured, "But, of course, a little proof of goodwill wouldn't hurt."

Tony eyed Solvarg and Brunnhilde, noting their peculiar attire, while motioning Pepper to step back and aiming the laser cannon.

"Alright, talk. But you'll need to earn my trust first," Tony said firmly.

Solvarg nodded and, with a blink, a golden flame enveloped Iron Man's suit, reducing it to molten metal that cooled instantly upon contact with the ground. The intense solar power at Solvarg's command effortlessly dismantled the outdated Mark VI.

"How is this even possible? How is this even possible?" Tony Stark could hardly maintain his composure, as though he were witnessing a miracle.

And indeed, it was nothing short of miraculous.

The dark red molten iron flowed endlessly, and Tony dared to extend a finger to touch it. It felt soft and sticky, with only a hint of warmth—there was no scorching heat like molten steel.

"Is it almost completely insulated, or can you actually control the temperature?" Tony asked in astonishment.

"How did you manage to do this?"

"Think of the possibilities with such precise temperature control!"

"My God, this is incredible!" Tony exclaimed, his eyes wide as he stared at Solvarg Odinson.

It seemed he expected Solvarg to shed some light on the matter. His initial skepticism had vanished after Solvarg effortlessly melted Tony's Mark VI armor with a mere glance.

Tony was a brilliant genius, not a fool.

"I just wanted it to happen, and it did," Solvarg replied nonchalantly. "Don't ask me how; figuring that out is your job now," he added, his tone casual, yet Tony's gaze remained intensely curious.

"Don't ask, or should I say, maybe I'm a god?"

Clearly, science wasn't Solvarg's strong suit.

"Well, sir, a god?"

"Is that what you all are?"

Finding a sofa, Tony sat down and nodded to Brunnhilde, who opened another bottle of wine and gestured for him to continue the conversation.

Regarding Pepper, even though there might not be any immediate danger, Tony ensured she left the area.

Brunnhilde grinned happily at Tony, then popped the bottle cap and took another swig.

"That's a bottle of Romanée-Conti!"

"Should..."

Tony glanced at Brunnhilde's carefree drinking style, contemplating whether he should suggest savoring it slowly. But before he could speak, Brunnhilde had already drained another large bottle of Romanée-Conti.

"Okay, help yourself to whatever you want and drink as much as you want!"

There wasn't enough booze for Tony. Ignoring Brunnhilde, who was now on a quest for more drinks, Tony focused on Solvarg lounging casually on the sofa. Clearly, Solvarg was the true authority here.

Solvarg paid no mind to Brunnhilde either. As an Aesir with taste preferences closer to humans, many foods across the universe just didn't meet his standards. Let Brunnhilde enjoy herself.

"Well, whether from legend or power, we're all bona fide gods,"

"Absolutely, omnipotence is still a bit beyond my reach at the moment!" Solvarg shrugged nonchalantly.

To the vast majority of people on Earth, Solvarg was like a towering figure, while they were mere ants. But Tony held onto a certain value that Solvarg took somewhat seriously.

"Well, I never really believed in gods?"

"However, omnipotence does pose a bit of a paradox. I'm not buying it!"

There was still a hint of skepticism in Tony's eyes, but then he inquired further. Something in Solvarg's earlier words had caught his attention.

"You mentioned that maybe that's something I should delve into in the future?"

Tony gestured towards the alloy that had slowly solidified from dark red to dark black on the ground.

"You want me to work for you?"

"Yeah, that's the gist of it."

Solvarg snapped his fingers, then leaned in, his gaze fixed on Tony.

"I've got a scientific research team hitting a snag, and I reckon your expertise could help push things along."

"And what about you? You keen on joining?"

"You serious?"

Tony eyed Solvarg skeptically.

"As Iron Man!"

"Billionaire."

"Why should I punch the clock for you?"

Tony Stark, with all his wealth and American clout, wondered why he should work for someone else.

"Well, the perks are top-notch. How about an annual salary plus a whole planet teeming with life?"

"Or anything else you fancy, just name it!"

Solvarg was dead serious. Earth was a real head-scratcher. The more muscle Solvarg flexed, the more he unearthed the planet's mysteries. Especially how a puny rock like Earth could churn out geniuses among billions of civilizations, practically making the whole universe look up to it. It was mind-blowing.

Tony's jaw practically hit the floor, stunned for a moment before tentatively asking,

"You're not pulling my leg?"

"A living planet for an annual salary?"

"Are you sure you're not some kind of god?"

"Not just an alien?"

Solvarg solemnly replied,

"Absolutely, a living planet as your annual bonus as long as you reach the set innovation goals"

"And if you think that's too cheap, we can negotiate!"

"And yeah, I'm definitely a god! But being labeled an alien isn't far off either!"

"What's your definition of a god anyway?"

"Strength is god!"

"The universe is a savage place, Tony!"

"I might need a moment to process this,"

Tony slouched back on the sofa, thoughts racing. The underlying threat in Solvarg's parting shot made Tony want to hit pause for a bit. At least give Pepper some breathing room, and the cavalry should be arriving soon!

When Solvarg Odinson discovered that Iron Man might be a potential recruit, he weighed his options with care.

The first option was enticing: eliminate Iron Man and gain immediate access to the knowledge contained within his Mark I to Mark Nano Armor. This would also enhance his physical defenses. It seemed like a quick fix to strengthen Solvarg's forces. However, Solvarg already had an abundance of lower-level fighters, so he dismissed this option without much consideration.

What truly intrigued him were the second and third options.

Option two was straightforward: coerce Iron Man into joining his ranks. With his power, this would be easy. Yet, Solvarg understood that forcing someone into service could lead to problems later. While it might expedite his research team's progress, he didn't want scientists working under duress. Such a scenario could lead to sabotage or careless work, particularly with sensitive projects.

Option three was more subtle: persuade Iron Man to join willingly. This approach could still accelerate Solvarg's research, though progress might be less predictable. It offered a more sustainable solution. Solvarg would not need to constantly worry about his scientists' loyalty or the quality of their work.

Yet, he had to consider the risks. Some research materials were scarce and expensive, and waste due to intentional sabotage could be disastrous. Solvarg knew he needed to choose wisely.

Furthermore, if finished products had flaws, they could significantly impact a victory or defeat at a crucial moment. This thought annoyed Solvarg slightly.

Solvarg hesitated for a moment before trying again, tempting Tony by saying, "Perhaps a potion to ensure the health and longevity of you, your family, and friends?"

"Or is there something else on your mind? Just say the word."

Solvarg didn't want to pressure Iron Man if persuasion could be effective.

"Sorry, but Pepper and I are still young!" Tony responded.

"Maybe we'll consider it when we're older," he added.

Tony shifted slightly but remained firm in his refusal. Having overcome Palladium poisoning and with plenty of time ahead, he was content with his current life and had no desire to serve some deity unexpectedly, even though the perks were indeed tempting.

"Alright," Solvarg's gaze hardened as he contemplated whether to press further.

At that moment, an unexpected S.H.I.E.L.D. agent with a dark, bald head appeared, breaking the tension and eliciting a chuckle from Solvarg.

He exchanged a meaningful glance with the one-eyed bald agent before focusing on adjusting the sun sensor.

Among the myriad natural responses of the human body, there were peculiar reactions that distinguished individuals, influenced by their unique geographical locations.

Brunnhilde, in the middle of a drink, cast a curious glance at the one-eyed agent. After a moment of surprise, she tensed, her left hand ready to strike, while her right hand, still gripping a wine bottle, hesitated to be used as a weapon.

Solvarg smiled and restrained Brunnhilde's left hand, silently signaling her to stand down.

Turning to address the uninvited intruder, he said, "Looks like we have some unexpected guests."

"Mr. Stark, it seems you're in a bit of trouble," the agent remarked.

"If it weren't for you, my troubles might have been a bit less," Tony quipped, shrugging, as he motioned for the accompanying agents to stand down before fixing his gaze on Solvarg.

In his eyes, there was a mix of apprehension and curiosity.

"Sir, care to explain why you've broken into this house in the dead of night?"

"Who are you, and what brings you here?" Nick Fury asked in his usual formal tone.

"I'm just here to recruit Mr. Stark to work with me," Solvarg replied casually. "As for who I am, you should have a picture of me somewhere."

Solvarg had brought Brunnhilde along to infiltrate the Kree Empire cruiser, which was teeming with Skrull inhabitants, to seize the Tesseract. He didn't bother concealing their identities.

Nick Fury was momentarily stunned, then composed himself and said, "So, it's really you! The Tesseract has always been Earth's treasure. I request that you return it."

"Since when has the Tesseract been Earth's treasure?" Solvarg retorted with a chuckle. "And when did you start speaking for the entire planet again?"

Solvarg laughed and continued, "It seems without the Tesseract as an energy source, you wouldn't dare venture out into space."

"Yes, without the light-speed engine, leaving Earth without Carol's backing against the Kree Empire would be suicidal," Fury admitted. "Plus, being stuck here for so long, we've probably missed out on a lot of universal intel."

"True," Solvarg agreed. "But I have to ask, do you control the core technology of the Skrull Empire?"

Solvarg stared down the Skrull disguised as Fury, exerting pressure. "I have no idea what you're talking about," the Skrull replied, visibly struggling.

Behind him, the S.H.I.E.L.D. agents lay incapacitated on the ground.

Solvarg used his divine power to probe the Skrull's sincerity and found no signs of deceit. He sighed, "Alright, I guess I was overthinking it. It's absurd to think such crucial tech would be entrusted to refugees."

"Let's get down to business, Mr. Stark. I'm starting to think you'll accept my offer, for the greater good," Solvarg said mysteriously, eyeing Stark and the Skrull Fury once more.

With that, he took Brunnhilde's hand, and they vanished into thin air.

"Is that Director Nick Fury, or something?"

"Yeah, it's about the Tesseract, the Kree Empire, and the refugees and stuff."

"Don't you have anything to say to me?"

All S.H.I.E.L.D. agents were unconscious, but Tony Stark remained awake. Tony Stark, who had overheard the entire conversation, immediately donned his suit again. After Caesar's sudden disappearance, he began interrogating the Skrulls disguised as Nick Fury.

"Damn, someone will explain it to you, but right now, I need to get out of here."

The Skrull posing as Nick Fury said this and, ignoring the unconscious agents and Stark's questions, quickly left Stark's mansion.

The mighty Aesir gods, who had previously forcibly taken the Tesseract, reappeared on Earth. This was critical for the Skrulls, who could only replicate the light-speed engine, leave Earth with the Tesseract, escape the Kree, and venture into the vast universe. The Skrull didn't have time to explain this to Stark, and it was up to the real Nick Fury to provide the details. For now, the priority was to relay this information to all the Skrulls still on Earth.

Above the void, Caesar pulled Brunnhilde and looked down at New York, its lights twinkling below. The city's prosperity was impressive, but how long would it last?

Brunnhilde asked directly, "Why didn't you just force that Skrull out? I like Midgard a lot and don't want those annoying Skrulls to occupy it!"

"If we want to occupy it, it should be by our own hands!"

"That's the fish I caught. You can't be frightened."

"And, you know, that bald head and the Skrull are in cahoots!"

"Perhaps he deliberately had the Skrulls impersonate him."

"If you disrupt this act directly, he won't be able to continue."

Caesar replied with a smile.

"That bald head?"

"His ugly hair is gone, and he's really clueless!"

"He doesn't understand what the Skrulls represent, and he'll bring disaster to all of Midgard!"

Brunnhilde said angrily, "No, maybe the disaster has already begun!" Caesar said with a mysterious smile and continued, "But who led him to crave recognition?"

"In just six years, he went from being a third-tier agent to a director. The Skrulls must have played a significant role, and it's only fair for him to expect something in return!"

"What about Iron Man?"

"Why not let him know who he's up against and see if he dares to refuse your offer!"

"But is he truly formidable? Can he match the likes of Hexi?"

"Can someone from such a small place as Midgard be that remarkable?"

Brunnhilde inquired again, though she had consumed plenty of Tony's wine, her attention was clearly on Caesar.

"Tony might not be on Hexi's level right now, but who knows about the future!"

"And Midgard, it's complicated!"

"Have you considered the Nine Realms under Asgard's rule? Apart from Midgard, each realm possesses potent power and unique technology. What about Midgard makes it worthy of Asgard's rule?"

"Moreover, there are numerous other gods and the hellish lords of the Dimensional Lords who covet Midgard's dimension. Have you wondered why?"

"Why does Midgard attract so many mighty beings?"

"I also recall mentioning the tale of the god Egg and his countless descendants. How is it that the offspring of Earth can inherit the gods' power while others cannot?"

"Have you pondered this?"

"It can't all be a coincidence!"

With a shake of his head, Caesar continued, "The souls of humans on Earth are exceptionally unique."

"They have a significant chance of producing the wisest individuals who stand at the pinnacle of the universe."

"There's also a good chance of creating powerful sorcerers capable of confronting the Dimensional Lords."

"At the same time, their souls hold immense value."

"If we can secure their faith, perhaps the Angel Kings' strength could be further enhanced!"

After advancing to the fourth-tier high-level of solar power and carefully studying humans, along with piecing together various facts, Caesar had finally realized this. Earth held immense value. The secrets it harbored might be even more astonishing.

Brunnhilde was lost in contemplation. Then she spoke hurriedly,

"Since Midgard holds such value, why not mobilize our army and take direct control?"

"Traditionally, invaders swooped in, the Angel intervened just in time, and then we erected the temple. You could simply seize this territory!"

"And that Iron Man, so formidable! We could easily capture him, whether he's been brainwashed or coerced. He could always be brought into the Heliosol Sanctum fold."

"I'll summon Roar to bring the Ravagers here."

Caesar reached out, halting Brunnhilde.

"It's not that simple. Midgard is currently nominally under Asgard's jurisdiction,"

"At the very least, I must confer with the mighty King of Gods."

"Besides, haven't you noticed?"

"Angel's faith already thrives here!"

"To win their allegiance, we must eliminate our rivals."

"The Earth will be ours, untouchable by anyone!"

As Caesar spoke, a gleam lit his eyes, followed by a smile.

"As for Tony Stark, the wisdom of such a genius is invaluable. Brainwashing won't do!"

"No need to rush; he'll willingly join us,"

"We have time!"

Would you wait a month for a top-tier recruit, even if you had a century? Most would.

So what if you had 10,000 years or more?

Caesar had long transcended mortality.

He, too, had adapted to the godly scale of time.

He could wait, and he could afford it, even if it took a few years.

In the forthcoming upheaval, amidst the Skrulls' shadow, Caesar believed Tony Stark would ultimately make the right choice.

But for now, Caesar gazed into the distance, where Bifrost's ripples were all too conspicuous.

Perhaps Loki had encountered fresh troubles.

He should speak with him soon.

"Are there new significant energy fluctuations?"

"Could it be that mysterious figures are appearing and disappearing suddenly?"

"It doesn't matter. This time, I'll observe from a distance in the shadows and avoid direct contact for the moment."

Phil Coulson remained stationed near the Mexican town, keeping a vigilant watch over Mjolnir. Without the latest updates from Nick Fury, he focused his attention on Sif and the three Asgardian warriors who had arrived via Bifrost once again.

"Still in those peculiar outfits?"

"Are they role-playing?"

"Or are they from some enigmatic realm?"

Phil Coulson mused silently as he continued his observation from afar.

Meanwhile, in the town...

Thor was enjoying lunch with Jane and her friends. The Asgardian warriors and Sif, the goddess of harvest, were now under the surveillance of S.H.I.E.L.D., and the town's inhabitants were fixated on them through the door.

"I found you!"

The four Asgardians eagerly pounded on the glass door, and both Thor and Jane noticed their arrival. Thor immediately went over and embraced everyone warmly, while Jane and her friends, startled by the visitors in their elaborate costumes, dropped their cups.

"Is he really Thor?"

Jane's best friend whispered to her, her eyes wide with disbelief.

Jane didn't respond, her gaze fixed intently on Sif.

The Asgardian warriors began to reminisce with Thor, revealing that Odin was still alive and debunking Loki's lies.

Thor's expression darkened.

But since Thor had not yet faced the Destroyer, he was momentarily unsure of his next steps.

"The ruler of the Heliosol Sanctum, second only to the greatest in the universe, turns out to be my brother! What an honor!" Loki materialized before Solvarg, a faint smirk on his lips.

Solvarg shook his head, a smile playing at his lips as he replied, "If my mother considers you her son, then you are my brother. Otherwise, you're just another insignificant being. Do you understand?"

"Absolutely," Loki's demeanor shifted, but he continued, "Mother mentioned how you sacrificed position of Odin's son, the heir of Asgard, of your own volition."

"Perhaps," Solvarg replied with a grin. "So, what brings my dear brother to me? Surely it's not just for a casual chat."

Loki's smirk widened, his tone sly, "Sif, the honorary sister of Heimdall , and three Asgardian warriors have disobeyed the king's orders by coming to visit Thor here on Midgard. I'm contemplating how to handle this situation."

Solvarg, stationed on Earth under Frigga's watch, was tasked with monitoring Thor. Knowing Solvarg's formidable power, Loki hesitated to deploy the Destroyer.

"How you deal with them is your business," Solvarg stated firmly, "but there's one condition: Mother must remain untroubled, and Heimdall must stay unharmed. If anything happens to them, there will be consequences. Do you understand?"

Loki met Solvarg's stern gaze, a bead of sweat forming on his brow as he quickly agreed, "Of course, I will adhere to your wishes."

Satisfied, Solvarg added, "I won't interfere with your plans, but I propose a pact or a deal. What do you think?"

"Trading with you is no small matter," Loki acknowledged. "But as your elder brother, I will ensure that you are not shortchanged."

Intrigued, Loki eagerly agreed, recognizing the advantages of aligning with Solvarg. "I promise, the rewards will exceed your expectations."

With a mysterious smile, Solvarg began detailing the specifics of their agreement.

Phil Coulson, who had been closely monitoring Thor and the Asgardians, received urgent news that forced him to halt surveillance immediately. S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters quickly pulled back its resources, leaving only a small team of agents to maintain routine oversight of Mjolnir.

"Boss, why the sudden stop in monitoring?" an agent asked, clearly confused by the abrupt decision.

Coulson, known for his solid rapport with his team, rarely made such sudden moves. He shook his head and responded, "There's probably a critical issue within the bureau, or the Director has other priorities."

"Let's hope it's not as bad as I'm fearing," the agent said, concern evident in his voice.

Coulson and his team swiftly departed the town.

Outside the town, helicopters approached, carrying mysterious containers toward Thor and his companions. An ominous aura seemed to emanate from the containers. With a thunderous crash, several containers were dropped onto the main road near Jane Foster's residence.

Curious townspeople gathered around the containers, oblivious to the danger that lurked inside. Suddenly, a horrifying roar erupted from one of the containers.

The Asgardian warriors and Sif immediately sensed the threat and drew their weapons, taking defensive positions. Thor, recognizing the gravity of the situation, urgently instructed the townspeople to evacuate.

With another resounding crash, the containers were opened.

"Monsters!"

The townsfolk gasped in terror as the containers revealed their contents. Several Green Goblins, lizardmen, a vengeful entity, and a deteriorating mutant with multiple abilities emerged, glaring menacingly at Thor and his allies, and launched a direct assault.

Due to the butterfly effect caused by Solvarg taking the Tesseract, the Skrulls were now completely stranded on Earth. Without a light-speed engine—whose core could only be constructed using the Tesseract—and with no hope of escape, the Skrulls had grown increasingly desperate and involved in Earth's affairs. They were particularly interested in genetic research on superhumans and monsters, inspired by Captain Marvel's indomitable strength.

"What in the world are these creatures?" Sif demanded, as she and the others fought valiantly to protect Thor and Jane.

Meanwhile, aboard the helicopter, several Skrulls observed the situation via surveillance footage, discussing their next moves.

"We hope these experiments will effectively neutralize these Aesir," one Skrull said.

"We need to gather more information on these powerful Aesir through these subjects," another added.

"Ensure no harm comes to the Asgardian who has become mortal; he appears to be of royal lineage!" one of the leading Skrulls instructed.

"Capture them and consider them as potential leverage with the Aesir," another suggested. "They could also serve as subjects for our latest experiments."

"Our genetic research must continue; we need to advance these experiments," said another Skrull. "One day, every Skrull will possess the same power as Carol Danvers or these Aesir."

"When that day comes, we will escape Earth and exact our vengeance upon the Kree Empire!" another declared. "The grand Skrull Empire will rise again!"

"Until then, our experiments must remain secret!" asserted one of the leading Skrulls. "Indeed, everything is proceeding as planned; the town is sealed off, no information leaks, and no one can escape!"

The battle raged on as Sif, the Warriors Three, and their allies faced off against the Skrull forces. The agility of the Green Goblin, combined with the Lizardmen's strength and regeneration, the ferocious Abomination, and the Mutant's multiple abilities, made for an extraordinarily difficult conflict.

The sounds of battle and shrill screams filled the air as the small town's residents, who had hoped to escape to safety, were now trapped and in terror.

"Damn it all!"

"The police station is unreachable!"

"Signals are completely jammed!"

"They want us all dead!"

"I don't want to die. Help!"

"Mommy, mommy!"

The townspeople were in disarray, their cries for help echoing through the streets. The protective circle formed by Sif and her companions could only do so much. Apart from Thor and his friends, it was nearly impossible for them to shield everyone.

The town's residents faced tragic fates before the eyes of Thor and his allies. Thor's fury was palpable, but even his godly strength could not fully awaken as needed. Jane Foster, the professor, and others around Thor watched with growing anxiety and fear, their initial curiosity and goodwill giving way to concern.

Jane, who had lived in the town for years and considered the townsfolk her friends and family, was devastated. The monsters, relentless in their onslaught, continued to wreak havoc without pause.

While the Green Goblins and Lizardmen were manageable foes for seasoned fighters like Sif and her companions, the Abomination proved to be a formidable adversary. The creature's incredible strength and nearly indestructible defense made it a nearly unstoppable force.

Sif and the Warriors Three, despite their prowess, found themselves struggling. The Abomination's power was nearly insurmountable, and the Skrulls' Mutant experiments added further complications. Sif wielded her sword with skill, but every wound inflicted seemed to only make the Abomination more enraged.

The Lizardmen, possessing not just strength and recovery but also the ability to become invisible, were proving to be a significant threat. One Lizardman, capitalizing on a moment of unpreparedness, slashed Vorstag with his claws, causing severe injuries. Fandral, ever vigilant, acted swiftly to save Vorstag, piercing the Lizardman's head with a precise strike.

"If I hadn't overeaten, I might have avoided that!" Vorstag grumbled, struggling to regain his footing as he resumed fighting.

Fandral's focus remained sharp, but the trio was clearly becoming overwhelmed. Their movements grew slower as fatigue set in. Thor, witnessing the dire situation, roared with determination. Mjolnir, his hammer, soared through the air, crackling with lightning as Thor fought to regain his strength. His combat prowess, now even approaching a lower limits of fourth-tier power level, was formidable.

Thor's fury was channelled into Mjolnir, cutting through the Green Goblins and Lizardmen with devastating force. Even the powerful Mutant was unable to withstand Thor's might. However, the Abomination remained a tough challenge.

Sif and the Warriors Three were relieved as Thor's power surged. The townspeople, though tragically lost, were simply mortals from Midgard—casualties of a battle that was often ruthless.

Abomination's durability was extraordinary. Even after multiple strikes from Thor's hammer, the beast maintained its stamina and continued to fight fiercely. But Thor's relentless assault, combined with the power of Mjolnir, was too much for the Abomination to withstand.

The Skrulls, observing the battle from a distance, began to retreat. They recognized that their valuable assets, such as the Abomination, were at risk. They hastily directed the remaining Green Goblins and Lizardmen to attack Jane and her allies, hoping to divert Thor's attention momentarily.

With their mission failing and the Abomination's survival in jeopardy, the Skrulls quickly withdrew, vanishing from sight before Thor could pursue.

Thor, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the injuries of his allies, hesitated. He looked upon the fallen townspeople and felt a heavy weight in his heart, understanding for the first time the true cost of battle.

Meanwhile, Solvarg had observed Thor's growing power and the Skrulls' experiments. Though some aspects of the Skrull's plans were surprising, they aligned with his future objectives, adding valuable insights to his strategy.

As Thor consoled Jane and the others, the Asgardians, particularly Sif, grew increasingly concerned. With Odin gone and Loki's deceitful schemes, the threat of Laufey, King of the Giants of Jotunheim, loomed large.

Sif exaggerated the gravity of the situation, urging Thor to consider the safety of Asgard. After a brief rest, Thor called upon Heimdall, hoping he could activate the Bifrost and transport them back to Asgard.

Heimdall, temporarily relocated by Loki's machinations, was not present. Instead, Loki, using his kingly authority, had taken control of the Bifrost with Gungnir, his spear, setting his plans in motion. The Bifrost's activation attracted Laufey, continuing Loki's scheme.

Thor, ever the chosen heir, was ready to face whatever challenges awaited, bolstered by his regained powers and the support of his allies.

Heimdall, who remained unfrozen, observed Thor and the others as they regained their powers. After a moment's consideration, he activated the Bifrost to return Thor and his companions to Asgard.

As the new Guardian of the Bifrost, Heimdall wielded the Eye of the Nine Realms, which allowed him to see all that transpired. Loki's true nature and intentions were clear to Heimdall, who had never been deceived by Loki's facade.

Thor returned as expected, but Loki took advantage of Odin's weapon, Gungnir, to strike a devastating blow. In a cunning attack, Loki used the weapon to kill Laufey, the King of the Giants of Jotunheim and his biological father. The power of Gungnir greatly amplified Loki's strength, enabling him to unleash powerful beams of Odinforce. Even a single well-placed beam could destroy Laufey.

Loki's ambush against Laufey, who was vulnerable and wounded, proved successful. Loki was surprised to see Thor reappear, unsure of how Thor had regained his powers and returned so swiftly to Asgard. This development disrupted Loki's plans.

Thor confronted Loki, demanding answers about his betrayal and the infiltration of Jotunheim giants into Asgard. Loki remained defiant, choosing to proceed with his original plan: to annihilate Jotunheim and eradicate the giants to prove his worth and loyalty to Odin and Asgard.

The destruction of Jotunheim was imminent, and Thor grappled with the moral implications. Despite the giants' past enmity, he was reluctant to see countless innocent lives lost in the conflict. The idea of peace began to resonate with Thor, compelling him to stop Loki's rampage.

Loki, wielding Gungnir, had forcibly activated the Bifrost, leaving Heimdall and the three Asgardian warriors powerless to intervene. The control over the Bifrost, now dominated by Loki and Gungnir, was beyond Heimdall's ability to counter.

The retreat of Odin over the past millennia had left the Nine Realms vulnerable to dark forces. Many saw Asgard as weakened and its rule as diminishing. They waited for a chance to strike. Destroying Jotunheim using the Bifrost might serve as a testament to Asgard's enduring might and its unyielding power.

The battle continued, and despite Loki's advantage with Gungnir, he was no match for Thor wielding Mjölnir. To prevent Jotunheim's destruction and assert Asgard's might, Thor was compelled to use Mjölnir, which also severed his bond with Jane Foster.

Jane, having endured personal tragedies, could no longer sustain her admiration for Thor, and the destruction of the Bifrost caused chaos and ruptured Asgard's defenses. Caesar, alongside Brunnhilde, appeared above the fractured Bifrost just as Thor and Loki were about to plummet into the void.

Odin intervened just in time, catching Thor and taking control of Gungnir, which Loki was clinging to. Odin, facing Solvarg and Brunnhilde, swiftly dismissed Loki's illusions. Loki could never earn Odin's full recognition because, despite his actions, he was still the son of Laufey and an instrument of Asgard's strategy for Jotunheim's future governance.

Loki, who had hoped to gain Odin's favor and prove himself by killing his own father and ravaging his homeland, was met with disdain. As he fell, Loki recalled his pact with Solvarg, questioning if this fate was anticipated.

Solvarg, initially uninterested in the Skrull's direct involvement, viewed Loki's attempts at expansion as trivial. To Solvarg, who commanded an immense interstellar empire, such matters were inconsequential.

The Skrulls' presence on Earth, aiding Solvarg, possibly shifted the balance. Solvarg observed the unfolding events coldly, indifferent to Loki's plight. Solvarg and Loki had no personal connections, nor did Solvarg feel any affinity for Thor.

Odin, witnessing Loki's fall, showed signs of regret. He pulled Thor to safety, then turned his attention to Solvarg and Brunnhilde. Odin, aware of Solvarg's formidable power, was surprised by the Valkyrie's extraordinary divine abilities, sensing a familiar godly essence.

Thor, absorbed in his grief and preoccupied with the strange new arrivals, paid little heed to Solvarg and Brunnhilde. Odin, forcing a smile, addressed Solvarg:

"Master of Heliosol, Solvarg, you bring us pride! Asgard will always welcome you. This place will always be your home!"

Solvarg shook his head and focused intently on Odin. "Great King of Asgard, I am here to negotiate. Release Hela and remove Midgard from Asgard's nominal rule!"

Before Thor could fully grasp the situation, there was a loud crack as Odin yanked Gungnir with force, then demanded angrily at Solvarg, "Do you even know what you're talking about?"

"I know exactly what I'm talking about," Solvarg responded coldly.

"Are you so old that you can't even hear properly?" Solvarg retorted, his tone full of disdain. "The King of Gods, huh!"

With a roar, Odin swung Gungnir and aimed it directly at Solvarg. Thor, now understanding the gravity of the situation, realized that Odin and these two strangers were not merely having a disagreement but were at odds with each other.

Thor stood behind Odin, gripping Mjölnir tightly, his gaze fixed on Solvarg and Brunnhilde.

"I came here to negotiate," Solvarg declared with a chilling firmness, "Release Hela and abandon Midgard!"

Odin regarded Solvarg with a penetrating gaze. The weak prince he once knew had become the ruler of the Heliosol Sanctum, the supreme authority across the universe.

Calmly, Odin withdrew Gungnir from pointing at Solvarg. With a demeanor that reflected the tension between two major powers, he addressed Solvarg evenly, "Releasing Hela is impossible."

"You must understand that the seal binds my very life. Only through my death can Hela be freed. Unless I perish, she will remain imprisoned. As for relinquishing Midgard, that's even less feasible."

"Midgard holds too many secrets. Its origins are tied to ancient deities and connects to numerous formidable beings. Asgard has invested immense effort into its protection."

"Giving up Midgard is not an option for Asgard!" Odin's tone grew more complex, his previously indifferent voice now earnest. "Finally, whatever your reasons for desiring Midgard, I urge you to reconsider your misguided ambitions."

"You are not in a position to judge me now!" Solvarg's response was resolute. "I refuse to believe that there is no way to release Hela other than your death!"

"Don't push me!" Solvarg added, his tone edged with defiance. "Regarding Midgard's mysteries and your qualifications, you no longer hold the right to judge me!"

"Odin!" Solvarg roared, advancing a step forward as if unwilling to back down.

The atmosphere grew increasingly tense. Mjölnir in Thor's grasp began to vibrate, resonating with his agitation. Brunnhilde's gaze shifted to Thor, her expression set with determination. She was prepared for a confrontation, her target clearly Thor himself.

Odin, undeterred by Solvarg's demands, stood his ground. His remaining eye flared with fierce determination. Odin was not the same peaceful figure he had once been; his nature was one of battle and conquest.

With a fierce resolve, Odin stepped forward, and a mysterious energy began to crackle around Gungnir.

"Don't believe? Qualifications?" Odin's voice thundered. "Solvarg, come and fight me. I will give you everything you want, but if you lose, you must leave!"

With those words, Odin was enveloped by an enormous suit of spiked armor that emerged from the depths of Asgard. The armor encased Odin, and his single eye glowed fiercely through the Destroyer armor, his power intensifying.

Solvarg remained silent, raising his left hand to reveal a glowing blue light. In his right hand, he summoned a flaming sword from the void. Though it was a standard angelic weapon designed for third-tier powerhouses, its potency was amplified by solar energy.

The clash began as Gungnir and Solvarg's sword collided with tremendous force, creating sparks, lightning, and shockwaves that shook the Bifrost. The waters below surged wildly.

Thor attempted to join the fray, swinging Mjölnir, but was intercepted by Brunnhilde wielding the Dragon Tooth Sword, halting his advance. Brunnhilde, with her Valkyrie sword of glory, was prepared to confront Thor, driven by a long-standing grudge against Asgard's royal family.

The intense battle reverberated throughout Asgard, awakening Heimdall, Frigga, the Asgardian warriors, and the guards who rushed toward the Bifrost.

Odin fought with the prowess of the former Sky Father, aware of the combat capabilities of the fourth-tier Aesir. Despite Solvarg's power, Odin's expertise and experience gave him a distinct advantage. However, Solvarg's control over space allowed him to counter Odin's attacks, keeping the battle in a precarious balance.

The fight continued, neither side willing to relent.

The battle between Thor and Brunnhilde had been raging for a while.

Thor, despite wielding Mjölnir, was only operating at a Vorsigma power level. Even with Mjölnir's blessing, his strength was near the standard Aelitum combat power but still insufficient against Brunnhilde's prowess.

Brunnhilde, who had absorbed the power of the God of War under Solvarg's command, was at a standard Aelitum power level herself. Within moments, she had Thor completely outmatched.

Her divine power was as formidable as the might of thunder. Brunnhilde's movements were fluid and relentless, circling Thor with remarkable agility. Her Dragon Tooth Sword slashed and cut, leaving numerous wounds on Thor's divine form.

Had Brunnhilde not been restrained by her loyalty to Solvarg, she might have finished Thor off already. As it was, Thor lay in a pool of his own blood, struggling to defend himself.

Thor was both shocked and furious when Brunnhilde drew her sword. His admiration for the Valkyrie had turned into disbelief and anger. He threw Mjölnir, his cherished weapon, with all his might, but it was clear that he could not match Brunnhilde's strength.

Thor noticed a mark on Brunnhilde's arm, which puzzled him. Why would a Valkyrie, sworn to protect Asgard, attack its royal family? Despite his efforts, he was no match for Brunnhilde.

Amid the chaos, Thor's struggles continued, and he could not manage to speak. He was forced to focus all his energy on defending against Brunnhilde's relentless attacks.

Meanwhile, Odin and Solvarg's battle raged on. Thor saw Heimdall, accompanied by three Asgardian warriors and Sif, approaching from a distance. Odin, encased in the Destroyer armor and wielding Gungnir, was pushing against Solvarg's fourth-tier power.

Despite Odin's immense power, he was struggling. Solvarg's flaming sword clashed with Gungnir, producing intense sparks. Solvarg's questions about Odin's diminished strength only highlighted Odin's growing fatigue.

"Odin, you're truly showing your age," Solvarg taunted. "Why have you grown so weak?"

The combat was relentless. Gungnir and Solvarg's sword collided with tremendous force, yet Solvarg's superior agility allowed him to evade Odin's attacks, further intensifying the struggle. Odin's breaths were labored, and his movements had slowed significantly.

The sword of flames continued to scorch the Destroyer armor, but Odin remained uninjured. The Destroyer armor, infused with Odin's power, held strong. Solvarg, equally unscathed, used his mastery of space to maintain the upper hand.

The fight was increasingly one-sided. Odin and Solvarg both understood that if the stalemate persisted, Solvarg would emerge victorious. Odin's body could no longer endure prolonged combat.

Heimdall and Sif arrived, and without hesitation, they engaged Brunnhilde to relieve Thor's pressure. Despite their efforts, the three Asgardian warriors were too weak, their injuries still unhealed. Sif, a high-end combatant, fared slightly better but was still overpowered.

Thor, relieved by the arrival of reinforcements, joined Sif and the warriors in a coordinated attack against Brunnhilde. He struggled to understand why a Valkyrie, traditionally loyal to Asgard, would fight against them.

"Valkyrie?" Thor asked in disbelief. "Why are you fighting Asgard, and why are you allied with Solvarg?"

Brunnhilde responded coolly, "Valkyrie? Not anymore. From that day forward, I've had no allegiance to Asgard. As for Solvarg, he's correct. If Odin hadn't intervened, I could have taken this place on my own. It's time to end this farce."

Her eyes hardened, and the power of the God of War surged from her Dragon Tooth Sword. It glowed red, and its speed and sharpness intensified.

Brunnhilde transformed into a whirlwind of blades, attacking with overwhelming force. The Dragon Tooth Sword became a storm of strikes, each one landing with devastating precision.

Despite their best efforts, the three Asgardian warriors were quickly overwhelmed. Valina's attacks severed their weapons, leaving them incapacitated. Sif was swiftly subdued, her weapon knocked away and her consciousness taken by a single blow.

Thor, who was struggling to rise, was further forced to relinquish Mjölnir when Brunnhilde's sword struck him. He was kicked aside, unable to rejoin the battle.

Frigga arrived just as Thor was thrown to the ground. Seeing her son in such a state, she immediately began to heal his wounds. As a powerful sorceress, Frigga's magic mended Thor's injuries and rescued Sif and the warriors from further harm.

Frigga, though deeply pained, refrained from intervening directly in the battle between Odin and Solvarg. She watched with sorrowful eyes as the two gods fought, knowing that their struggle was a reflection of their unresolved conflicts.

The battle between Odin and Solvarg continued with no end in sight. Frigga's heart ached, but she remained silent, understanding that their conflict was a deeply rooted struggle that could not be easily resolved.

The crowd began to watch with bated breath.

A battle between the top powerhouses of the universe is a rare spectacle.

Aside from Heimdall and Brunnhilde, even Thor and his companions were stunned.

"Dad has such a powerful adversary?"

"Who is that person?"

"Why is he fighting Dad?"

Thor asked directly.

Frigga, tears streaming down her face, replied with a pained expression, "He's not a stranger."

"You should call him 'brother.' His name is Solvarg."

Thor and Sif, along with the others, were completely stunned.

Thor quickly asked, "I have a brother?"

"But why is he fighting Dad?"

Thor couldn't comprehend the situation.

"Perhaps, it's because of your sister," Frigga answered.

Thor was frozen in place. Not only had he suddenly discovered he had an incredibly strong brother, but this brother was also fighting his father. And the reason for this battle might be related to his sister?

What is happening?

Who am I?

Where am I?

Thor, Sif, and the others were confused and had no answers. The battle between Solvarg and Odin only grew more intense.

In close combat, Odin's aging body could no longer keep up with the agile attacks. So, he abandoned melee combat altogether. He pulled back and wielded Gungnir, unleashing a barrage of rainbows and lightning to strike at Solvarg.

Solvarg smiled. In terms of endurance, Solvarg, armed with the Space Gem, had never been defeated. Considering the spectators and the entire Asgard, neither Solvarg nor Odin used their most destructive attacks. Instead, they condensed their energy to the utmost and engaged in a fierce clash.

The sea churned violently, and countless water droplets splashed over the onlookers. The ground trembled with every collision, making all of Asgard shake with the reverberations.

Asgard's guards arrived, but under Frigga's advice, they refrained from joining the battle recklessly. With the current strength of the Asgard Legion, joining the fray of such top-tier combatants would only result in their deaths.

Odin's Gungnir's rainbow energy began to wane, not due to Odin's lack of power but because Bifrost had been destroyed by Thor. With Bifrost gone, Odin could no longer channel its energy through Gungnir.

Bifrost was Asgard's core treasure. Had it remained intact, Odin could have used it to attack Solvarg directly. Even with Solvarg's possession of the Space Gem, the combined might of Odin and Bifrost would have been challenging to resist.

Odin furrowed his brow, a red glint flashing across his face. The fierce battle seemed to reignite his old pride. With Bifrost destroyed and his energy limited, Odin knew that over time, his aging self would be unable to match Solvarg with the Space Gem.

Determined to end the battle decisively, Odin prepared for a final, decisive blow. He hesitated briefly before shouting, "Don't die, Solvarg!"

Solvarg became alert at Odin's shout. Odin drew back, holding Gungnir high, and began to charge. Mysterious runes appeared on Gungnir, radiating a brilliant light. Odin thrust Gungnir forward with immense force, executing his most powerful attack: Meteor Strike.

Frigga shouted in alarm as Odin raised his right hand. Ignoring her own safety, she rushed toward them, desperate to intervene. In her memory, no one had ever withstood this blow unscathed. Even the mighty Flame Giant Surtur had been severely injured by it, and had yet to recover fully.

Brunnhilde rushed to Solvarg's aid, even trying to shield him with her own body. But the Meteor Strike was a shooting star – too fast and too powerful to describe. It was a flash of light, and before anyone could react, Gungnir seemed to pierce Solvarg's chest.

The spear, unstoppable and penetrating, seemed to embody the rule of all things. Solvarg could not see clearly; the trajectory of Gungnir was beyond his perception. Even though he used the Space Gem to extend the space in front of him almost infinitely, Gungnir pierced through countless spaces to reach him.

Space alone could not halt Gungnir's advance. But fortunately, the nearly infinite space slightly slowed its progress. Despite his fourth-order divine body, Solvarg knew he could not block Gungnir's attack.

In an instant, Solvarg extended his left hand, palm open, to face the oncoming Gungnir. The small blue gemstone on his palm glowed brightly – the Space Gem against the strongest strike of the God King of the Nine Realms.

The outcome became clear in that moment.

Gungnir's spear point struck the Space Gem, but there was no cataclysmic collision. No blinding light, no impact, not even a sharp clang. Gungnir fell silently to the ground as if it had lost its power at the end of a strong arrow.

Only the Infinity Gems could destroy other Infinity Gems. The six Infinity Gems together represented the power of the entire universe. Although Odin was powerful, shaking the universe was beyond his capability.

After the Meteor Strike, Solvarg quickly closed his palms and concealed the Infinity Gems. The Meteor Strike had been too swift, and aside from Heimdall and Brunnhilde, few had seen clearly. All that was visible was a flash of light, Solvarg evading with his left hand, and then Gungnir falling to the ground.

Everyone was speechless, unable to believe what had transpired. The strongest attack of the God King of the Nine Realms had been thwarted. It was a Meteor Strike, known for its invincibility.

Frigga, stepping forward, was halted by Brunnhilde. The outcome had been decided after Solvarg withstood the Meteor Strike. A bead of cold sweat trickled down Solvarg's forehead. The Meteor Strike had been perilous.

He quickly seized Gungnir and, without delay, advanced toward Odin, who was weakened and frail after the Meteor Strike. Gungnir, a divine weapon, could still enhance Solvarg's strength despite Odin's diminished power.

The outcome of the battle was now unmistakable.

Odin collapsed onto the cold ground, gasping for breath. The once-imposing Destroyer armor he wore was now tattered and barely holding together, as if it could disintegrate at any moment.

Standing over him, Solvarg Odinson gripped Gungnir tightly, pointing its lethal tip directly at Odin's throat. His expression was conflicted as he spoke, "I won. Now, release Hela and relinquish control of Midgard!"

Though he had emerged victorious, there was no joy in Solvarg's eyes. The weight of his triumph was tempered by the understanding that Odin's defeat was not solely due to his strength. Odin's age and frailty had tipped the scales, as had Thor's destruction of the Bifrost. Solvarg knew that if Odin had been able to channel the full power of Bifrost through the Gungnir, the battle's outcome would have been different.

Even as the memory of Odin's words haunted him, reminding him to use the Space Gem to block the meteor strike, Solvarg couldn't shake the feeling that the once insurmountable mountain that was Odin had finally been conquered. Yet, there was no satisfaction, only a hollow victory.

Odin, still struggling for breath, looked up at Solvarg with a single eye that glowed with an inexplicable light. "My child," he rasped, "you truly amaze me. Midgard is yours. If you wish, even Asgard will be ruled by you. As for Hela… if you want her freed, kill me, and she will naturally escape her bonds. But promise me this—take care of your mother and do not let Hela harm her brother."

Odin closed his eye, ready to embrace death calmly.

Solvarg hesitated, his voice trembling as he shouted, "Enough! Don't think I won't do it! Tell me another way to release Hela!"

Odin remained impassive, his eye still closed. "There is no other way."

In anger, Solvarg raised Gungnir, but before he could strike, Frigga, his mother, arrived and grabbed his hand. She said nothing, only wept silently. The pain and helplessness in her eyes, once so gentle, now pierced through Solvarg's resolve.

Meeting her tearful gaze, Solvarg's fury drained away. He threw Gungnir to the ground and bowed his head before Odin. "If this were a thousand years ago, I might not have spared you. But now, how many more years do you have left? I don't want to upset my mother. So, can you tell me? Why have you weakened so much? What really happened back then?"

Odin opened his eye and, with a wave of his hand, Gungnir returned to him, its divine power flowing back into his body. Strengthened, Odin rose to his feet, casting a gentle glance at Frigga before addressing Solvarg. "A thousand years ago, you couldn't have defeated me. But I will tell you everything. That is the price of my defeat."

He dismissed Thor and the Asgardian guards who had rushed to aid him, then led Solvarg and Frigga to his private chambers. Some secrets were not meant for many ears.

The fierce battle had ended, but Thor's mind was far from at ease. Watching the three of them walk away, his heart was filled with doubts. He turned to Brunnhilde, the Valkyrie, and asked, "Is he really my brother? Why is he so strong? And you… I've always admired the Valkyries. Can you tell me why you're so powerful? How do you train?"

Brunnhilde rolled her eyes at Thor's barrage of questions. "Your brother Loki just fell into the void. Your companions are gravely injured. You destroyed the Bifrost, and you have no idea what that means for Asgard. And yet, you still find time to pester me with questions?"

Thor fell silent. Despite Loki's deception, his bond with his brother remained deep.

Inside the palace, Odin began to recount the secrets of the past to Solvarg. "The Nine Realms, with the exception of Midgard—Earth—are lands of myth and legend. They are home to gods, giants, elves, and dwarves. But Midgard, a small, seemingly insignificant mortal world, is the most crucial of all. Every realm—whether Jotunheim, Asgard, heaven, or hell—has sought to control it. There have been whispers among the gods for eons that Midgard holds the key to transcending the entire universe. It is the origin and the end of all things.

"In ancient times, Asgard fought countless battles to subdue the Nine Realms and seize control of Midgard. We paid a great price for that victory."

Odin's expression turned somber as he recalled the warriors who had fallen in those battles. After a moment of silence, he continued, "When we finally occupied Midgard, we began to investigate its peculiarities. It quickly became apparent that the souls of Midgard's inhabitants were stronger and more unique than any others in the universe. And then, the Celestials arrived.

"Only nine of them came, but their power was immense. Each one was close to the strength of a Sky Father. They accused Asgard of conducting research that could disrupt the balance of the universe and demanded we cease our studies on Midgard immediately.

"At that time, Asgard was at the height of its power. Tyr, the god of war; Balder, the god of light; Hodr, the god of darkness; and Ullr, Heimdallr's father and the former Guardian of the Bifrost—each of them was an awakened god of the highest order. We had a vast and elite army, Bifrost, and Hela. Asgard seemed invincible."

Odin's eye filled with longing as he remembered their former glory. But the longing was soon replaced by deep sorrow. "We were strong, but we were arrogant. We leaped into battle and were met with a devastating defeat. Our elite forces were annihilated. Balder, Hodr, Ullr, and Tyr—each one fell. I watched as Tyr was torn in half by a colossal Celestial, his body consumed as a source of energy."

Odin's voice quivered with the memory. "I couldn't bear it. I sacrificed most of my life force, wielding Gungnir with all my strength, and severed the head of that Celestial before banishing it to the void. Afterward, I negotiated peace with the remaining eight Celestials. Asgard agreed to cease its research on Midgard and avoid it whenever possible. In return, the Celestials withdrew their pursuit of us."

Odin chuckled bitterly. "Those emotionless beings, they were as much machines as gods, but they feared death. I returned to Asgard alone. The elite forces were gone. Only the Valkyrie and Hela's legion remained. The battle had come so suddenly that Hela had not participated. In her absence, she led the legion on a campaign against other civilizations, as if she were seeking a treasure for you."

He paused, his voice heavy with the weight of the past.

When Solvarg returned, he quickly learned of the battle.

"Determined, Hela desired to continue her conquest.

She wanted to rule countless civilizations across the universe by subjugating the endless starry sky, and after gaining enormous power, take her revenge against the celestrials themselves.

I had to stop her.

Asgard's remaining power was insufficient to conquer the entire universe. Forcing such a battle would lead to the death of all Asgardians.

But your sister, Hela, was too stubborn. She saw my hesitation as cowardice and believed I was retreating. She no longer deemed me worthy to be king and challenged me.

I defeated her and planned to imprison her to prevent her from reigniting the war that would bring Asgard to ruin.

But she defected, and I was too wounded to pursue her. I had no choice but to send the Valkyrie Corps after her, but they too were destroyed. That was Asgard's last elite force.

Despite my severe injuries, I managed to stop her with one final effort. I used my life force to create the strongest cage, imprisoning her in Hel. From now on, as long as I live, Hela will remain trapped there."

As Odin finished speaking, he sighed heavily.

However, Solvarg raised a question, "So, why not simply let Hela go?"

"Because Hela is my chosen heir," Odin's voice echoed with finality, "She possesses the power of all Asgard!"

"The power of Asgard cannot be lost, even in death. It can only be relinquished within the Nine Realms. This is the foundation upon which Asgard's existence is anchored in the depths of the universe."

The secrets of Earth and its hidden powers no longer intrigued Solvarg. He was aware that delving too deep into those mysteries could be perilous, especially before his strength far exceeded that of the Celestials. Solvarg had no intention of facing an untimely demise, not before fulfilling his own goals. For now, he only wanted to meet Hela.

Although releasing Hela was currently impossible, communication with her was not out of reach. With Odin's assistance, Solvarg projected his consciousness discreetly into Hel. A direct entry, however, was not something he was willing to trust Odin with just yet.

Hel, the realm where Hela was imprisoned, was not as Solvarg had imagined. He had expected a landscape akin to the fiery pits of the underworld, full of lava, demons, and toxic fumes. Instead, he found himself in an infinite void, a place of boundless darkness and dead silence where time and space seemed to have lost their meaning.

He called out, his voice echoing in the emptiness, but there was no response. Just as he was about to turn away, he noticed Hela standing behind him, her hair disheveled, her gaze fixed on him.

Hela reached out, her hands gently tracing Solvarg's face. "Is it really you, Solvarg?" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of surprise and anger. "Did Odin imprison you too? Why would he do that?"

Anger flared in Hela's eyes, and her voice rose as she shouted, "You can't keep me here, Odin! One day, I will rule Asgard, and I will conquer the entire universe! Then, I will have my glorious revenge!"

The realm of Hel trembled with her fury. The long years of imprisonment had not diminished Hela's fighting spirit; instead, it had only fueled her desire for vengeance. Solvarg, feeling a pang of sorrow, considered confronting Odin and freeing Hela. But he ultimately sighed and embraced her warmly.

"We are gods, Hela. Time should be viewed on a godly scale," he whispered. "A few years... it's nothing for beings like us. But it will happen soon, very soon."

Solvarg and Hela spoke for a long time. They discussed his current strength, Odin's dwindling lifespan, and the reasons why he hadn't yet slain Odin to free her. Hela listened in silence, offering her unwavering support.

She then revealed a gift she had once prepared for Solvarg—a secret treasure of the Shi'ar Empire, capable of turning confidence into strength. However, she acknowledged that it was no longer necessary, as Solvarg had grown powerful enough on his own. The treasure was a enhancement process that is done by Kallark, the Gladiator, a power that only a select few could survive. Solvarg knew that if the enhancement were widely successful, the Shi'ar would have ruled the universe by now.

As their conversation neared its end, Solvarg's consciousness began to fade, and he made a promise to reunite with Hela soon. When his consciousness returned to Odin's chambers, Solvarg cast a deep, lingering look at the All-Father.

After a brief rest in Asgard and some discussions with Odin and Frigga, Solvarg left the realm. Thor, who had hoped Solvarg would take him back to Earth to see his beloved Jane, hesitated under Solvarg's cold gaze and ultimately backed down. Heimdall later informed Thor of Jane's current thoughts, convincing him to temporarily set aside his love for her. Even if Jane had not changed her feelings, Solvarg would not have taken Thor back to Earth. Asgard was far from peaceful.

The destruction of the Bifrost had left Asgard vulnerable, unable to respond swiftly to disturbances in the Nine Realms. Odin's defeat had sparked unrest, and rebellion was brewing across the realms. The peace Odin had maintained for so long had caused some races to forget the true power of Asgard. Thor, who had shattered the Bifrost and caused the disaster, would now need to settle the war himself.

Odin, reluctant to act personally, intended for Thor to build his own prestige and military exploits, which would serve him well when Hela eventually returned. Solvarg, however, had different plans.

After leaving Asgard, Solvarg journeyed directly to Nidavellir, the land of the dwarves. The battle with Odin had taught him a valuable lesson—sometimes, a powerful artifact could greatly enhance one's combat abilities. With the Power Gem and Reality Gem soon to emerge, Solvarg needed a weapon capable of wielding the combined might of multiple Infinity Stones.

Even the most powerful Aesir or Titans could only control one Infinity Stone at a time. Attempting to wield more would cause even the strongest bodies to collapse. The dwarves, despite their name, were giants several meters tall. Their short limbs and stocky builds had earned them the moniker "dwarves," but their skill in blacksmithing was unparalleled. They had forged Mjölnir, Gungnir, and would eventually craft Stormbreaker and the Infinity Gauntlet.

The dwarf king, Eitri, recognized Solvarg and did not hesitate to agree to his request to forge a new weapon. Aware of Solvarg's identity and strength, Eitri discussed the details of the artifact with him. Solvarg also suggested relocating Nidavellir, including its neutron star, to a safe location to protect it from Thanos' future attacks. However, the stubborn dwarf king refused, knowing that Nidavellir was under Asgard's rule. Solvarg respected his decision, acknowledging that moving Nidavellir could wait until the threat was imminent.

After making the necessary preparations, Solvarg departed for Earth. With dominion over Earth, his next step was clear—to establish his influence and control across the entire planet.

Solvarg Odinson led Brunnhilde back to Earth, the rich blue orb that hid countless secrets. His immediate goal was not the destruction of faith in the Old Gods, though their worship dominated much of the planet. The power held by belief in such beings was immense, and should he manage to seize it, the Pool of Reincarnation could rapidly absorb and convert that energy. However, the task of usurping these ancient powers was a formidable one.

"The old gods are eternal," Solvarg mused. "New gods cannot rise while they still stand."

His strategy was clear: start with the weakest link, and squeeze until it snapped.

Their destination was Africa, specifically the hidden nation of Wakanda. To the outside world, Wakanda seemed a poor and backward land, but beneath its surface lay untold riches and technological marvels that surpassed anything else on Earth. The source of their power? Vibranium, a metal more valuable than any other in the universe.

Thousands of years ago, a meteorite of Vibranium crashed into Africa, giving birth to Wakanda, a kingdom that had since flourished in secret. The value of Vibranium was astronomical—just one gram fetched tens of thousands of dollars. But how much Wakanda possessed was a mystery, even to Solvarg. Not that it mattered.

"Once I set foot in Wakanda, all that Vibranium will belong to me," he declared with a grin.

For Solvarg, Vibranium was the key to crafting his own artifacts, weapons of unimaginable power. Though he had acquired some rare metals with Odin's assistance, it was not enough. Wakanda would be his first conquest.

He deployed a team of his elite Angels, along with a squad of Ravagers, utilizing the oldest trick in the book—a swift and brutal sneak attack. Solvarg's warships and fighters, equipped with the best technology in the universe, launched a barrage of fire that shattered Wakanda's defenses before they could even raise their energy shields to full capacity.

As his forces descended upon the land, specialized drilling machines began extracting the precious Vibranium from deep within the earth. The Wakandan military, though advanced in technology, was no match for the cosmic raiders led by Solvarg. They were equipped to fight wars in the farthest reaches of the galaxy, and Wakanda, for all its prowess, was still tied to ancient traditions.

The Black Panther, Wakanda's greatest warrior, donned his Vibranium suit and stood defiantly against the invaders. His armor absorbed kinetic energy, making him almost invulnerable. However, one of Solvarg's elite, a giant among the Ravagers, stepped forward to face him. The giant's physique was monstrous, his armor the pinnacle of galactic craftsmanship. With a single, powerful move, he grabbed the Black Panther, his hand closing around the hero's Vibranium-clad form.

The armor's energy absorption was impressive, preventing the giant from killing the Black Panther outright. But the Ravager had other plans. He carried the Black Panther to a nearby pool, and with a casual toss, submerged him in the water. Then, the giant sat on him, the weight of his massive body holding the hero under.

Vibranium armor had its limits. The Black Panther needed air to survive, and Vibranium could not provide that. Trapped beneath the water, his breath bubbled to the surface as he struggled desperately to remove the helmet that sealed his fate. The giant's grip, however, was too strong. His body, too, was a fortress of unyielding flesh.

As the Black Panther's strength waned, the gods of Wakanda began to manifest—primordial beings worshipped by the people for centuries. The Black Panther, White Gorilla, Crocodile, Lion, and Hyena appeared, their divine power filling the battlefield with primal energy. They were massive, agile, and infused with the strength of the Wakandan people's faith.

But they were no match for Solvarg.

Watching from above, Solvarg observed the scene with cold detachment. He could have incinerated the gods with a wave of his hand, summoning the golden flames of the sun to turn them to ashes. But he chose a different path. Summoning a series of javelins, he hurled them from the sky. Each javelin was imbued with divine energy, and as they struck the gods, blue auras burst forth before the javelins reappeared, pinning the gods to the ground.

The Black Panther and the White Gorilla fell first, each impaled by Solvarg's javelins. The other gods followed, one by one, each reduced to a wailing, pitiful state, dying slowly and in agony. Solvarg did not finish them off. He let them suffer, their cries echoing across the battlefield until death finally claimed them.

Some Wakandans, true believers, rushed to aid their dying gods, hoping to free them from their torment. Solvarg's elite Ravagers showed no mercy, cutting down the devout without hesitation. As their gods died, so too did their faith.

The destruction of belief was not always easy, but it was effective. The gods, humiliated and killed before the eyes of their worshippers, left a void in the hearts of the people. The most devout followers, slaughtered by the invaders, took much of the remaining faith with them to the grave.

The extraction of Vibranium continued unabated. Large chunks of the precious metal were loaded onto Solvarg's ships. The Ravagers did not stop until the last ounce of Vibranium had been taken. They then prepared to destroy Wakanda completely with a single, devastating strike.

At that moment, the Angels descended, swooping in like saviors from the heavens. They arrived too late to save the gods or the king, but they struck down the Ravagers with swift and precise force. The Wakandans, broken and desperate, saw their once-great nation reduced to ruins. Their gods were dead, their king slain, their technology in tatters, and the Vibranium that had made them rich was gone.

The Angels, however, brought a semblance of hope. Though the people of Wakanda were lost, hungry, and on the brink of despair, the Angels provided aid. Solvarg had planned for this. He knew that the Angels would come, that they would play their part in his larger scheme. The people, bereft of their old gods, would now turn to the Angels, the new "saviors" who had appeared in their darkest hour.

As the Vibranium was safely aboard his ships, Solvarg turned his attention to a man he had nearly forgotten—Hank Pym. Pym was of the same generation as Howard Stark, a brilliant mind, though his inventions had never quite reached the acclaim of Stark's. Yet, one creation intrigued Solvarg: the Pym Particle.

The Pym Particle could alter the size of objects, a seemingly simple ability with far-reaching implications. The Ant-Man suit, while useful in certain scenarios, was merely the surface of what the Pym Particle could achieve. Solvarg saw its true potential.

The Vibranium he had acquired could be miniaturized using the Pym Particle, making it easier to forge into powerful artifacts. Weapons crafted from this compressed Vibranium would be unmatched in power. The Pym Particle could also scale up difficult-to-manufacture parts, allowing them to be refined before shrinking them back to their original size. This would revolutionize his scientific research and the construction of advanced technology.

In the hands of a warrior, the Pym Particle might be limited, but in the realm of science, it was a game-changer. Solvarg realized he had underestimated Hank Pym. But now, with Wakanda's Vibranium and Pym's genius at his disposal, Solvarg's vision was one step closer to becoming a reality.

With Wakanda subdued and Vibranium in his grasp, Solvarg set his sights on his next conquest. The old gods had fallen, and soon, the new would rise in their place.