A few days had passed since that fateful conversation where Erik, Liam, and Mia had made the choice that would alter the course of their lives. The aftermath of their decision had been a whirlwind of activity. True to his word, Thor had ensured that their families were given the best care and protection the realm could offer.
The families were soon made comfortable. They were housed in elegant chambers and their every need was attended to by courteous attendants. The families were given access to the finest food, healing, and even enchantments that kept them safe and healthy.
Erik, Liam, and Mia had visited them daily, relieved to see their loved ones adapting, even if it was with a sense of disbelief at their new surroundings.
As for Erik, Liam, and Mia, they had spent the last few days recovering from the physical and emotional toll of their recent fight with the masked figure. Their bodies once weary from the strain were now rejuvenated, thanks to the advanced healing techniques of Asgard's healers.
Now, they stood in the middle of a wide yard in Asgard, a vast expanse of green grass bordered by towering trees that shimmered with golden leaves. The sky above was endless blue, with the sun casting gentle light over them.
Erik, Liam, and Mia were clad in Asgardian attire. Erik wore a dark blue tunic adorned with silver embroidery. His pants made of a sturdy material that allowed for ease of movement. A leather belt cinched at his waist, and boots, lined with fur, completed the outfit.
Liam's attire was similar, though his tunic was a deep crimson, and he wore bracers on his arms that glinted in the sunlight.
Mia's outfit was a tunic of soft green fabric that accentuated her lithe form. Her boots were lighter, designed for agility, and her blonde hair was pulled back into a braid that flowed down her back.
Thor stood in front of them. He was dressed in his own battle attire. The red cape billowing slightly in the breeze. Mjolnir hung at his side. Yet, despite his imposing appearance there was a warmth in his eyes as he regarded the three young warriors before him.
"You've come a long way," Thor said, his voice carrying across the yard. "But the path ahead is much more dangerous than you can imagine. If you are to stand alongside the gods in this war you must be prepared."
Erik, Liam, and Mia exchanged glances, each of them feeling the weight of Thor's words.
Thor raised his hand, and the ground beneath them rumbled slightly. "Today, we begin your training. But first, I will explain what you need to know first."
"Just like I said before, the System is designed so you can understand it further," Thor said, his gaze steady as he looked at each of them.
Erik, Liam, and Mia exchanged glances, curiosity and a bit of apprehension in their eyes. They had already know that have the System, but they still don't know anything about it.
Thor continued, "However, I don't really understand the intricacies of this System myself, so I won't be explaining it in detail right now." He gave a slight shrug, a rare display of humility from the God of Thunder. "Instead, there is something more immediate that you need to know—about your Reincarnated Souls."
The trio leaned in, their attention fully on Thor.
"Erik," Thor said, looking directly at him, "you are the reincarnation of Sigurd, one of the greatest heroes of the Volsunga saga. Sigurd was renowned for his strength, bravery, and his role in slaying the dragon Fafnir. His blood runs through your veins and his power is yours. With time, you will unlock more of his abilities, such as unmatched swordsmanship, resistance to poisons, and a profound understanding of Runes."
Erik felt a shiver run down his spine. The weight of the name "Sigurd" seemed to press down on him, but there was also a strange sense of belonging, as if a long-lost part of him had finally been acknowledged.
Thor then turned to Liam.
"And you, Liam, are the reincarnation of Beowulf, the legendary warrior who fought and defeated the monstrous Grendel, Grendel's mother, and later a you also defeated a dragon. Beowulf was a paragon of courage, strength, and loyalty, and these traits are now part of you. You will find that your physical strength, endurance, and ability in battle will grow, just as his did."
Liam's eyes widened slightly, but there was also a spark of recognition. He had always felt an affinity for his own physical ability, and now he understood why.
Finally, Thor looked at Mia.
"Mia, you are the reincarnation of Brynhildr, the leader of the Valkyrie. She was a fierce warrior and shieldmaiden of the gods, Brynhildr was known for her wisdom, beauty, and strength. As her reincarnation you have the potential for incredible combat prowess, insight into the fates, and the ability to influence the outcome of battles. You are destined to be a leader and a protector."
Mia's expression light up. The idea of being connected to such a powerful figure was overwhelming, yet it also filled her with a sense of purpose she had never felt before.
"I know I was a badass," Mia said with a wide grin.
"Hey, I think I'm stronger than you," Liam said, looking at her.
Thor didn't bother to stop their bickering. He stepped back, giving them space to absorb what he had just told them.
"Who created the System?" Erik asked. He thinks that if they wanted to understand their power, first they have to understand the System.
Thor looked at Erik, his expression thoughtful. For a moment, he seemed to weigh his words carefully before responding.
"The System was created by one of the most brilliant minds in Asgard, Heimdall."
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