128

Chapter 128: Ragnarök's Prophecy

Despite knowing that Doctor Strange would ultimately triumph, the Ancient One remained anxious. If Doctor Strange were to fail even once, it could spell disaster.

Thus, the Ancient One urgently needed to recruit powerful allies for Kamar-Taj, at least to help counter Dormammu's threat.

Odin, as a seasoned warrior, was not an option. Among the others, Thor was the most capable player in the Nine Realms. His magical immunity could also prove advantageous against Dormammu's minions.

"Yes, but I can only guarantee that your legacy will remain intact. I can't concern myself with the smaller details," Thor said.

Thor agreed. Essentially, as long as they could overcome Dormammu, Kamar-Taj would be safe. The real threat was Thanos, who was an unavoidable global menace.

Kamar-Taj's combat mages, although capable, had limitations. Thus, aligning with Thor was a practical decision. Thor also understood the Ancient One's intentions and was willing to cooperate since it was not in his interest to let Dormammu devour the Earth.

With their discussion concluded, the Ancient One left satisfied.

Thor now faced Odin alone.

Odin scrutinized Thor for a moment before saying softly, "Thor, you have truly grown up."

Thor was slightly embarrassed. After all, he was over 1,500 years old!

"Alright, come in. I know you have many questions," Odin said.

They walked into the Golden Hall together, seemingly forgetting some crucial matters.

"Ragnarök is an ancient prophecy that cannot be easily dismissed. Surtur is foretold to destroy Asgard, but he, like Hela, is merely a trigger for the crisis. The true threat comes from the World Tree, which is essential to Asgard's existence."

Odin sighed and continued, "The real symbol of Ragnarök is not just the destruction of Asgard, but the withering and breaking of the World Tree."

Thor hesitated before asking, "Why would the World Tree wither? Is there a great dragon gnawing at its roots?"

Odin responded, "Have you been reading too many Midgard myths? It's not that simple. I've already dealt with it."

Thor smiled sheepishly. He had been thinking of Norse mythology, but Earth's version was significantly altered compared to the Marvel depiction.

"I don't know the exact reason. Perhaps it was doomed from the start."

Thor nodded. "The reason isn't as important as finding a solution. If there were a race capable of revitalizing the World Tree through their life force and regeneration, could that reverse the damage?"

Thor asked hopefully.

Groot's branches could theoretically replace those of the World Tree, possibly restoring its vitality. In another world, Groot would be considered a druid!

The World Tree was vital not only for Asgard's survival and Stormbreaker's power but also for the Rune King's extraordinary abilities.

Odin gave Thor a peculiar look. "You know about them? You mean the Flora Colossus, right? In theory, they might be able to help, and I had considered this long ago. However, they are a notorious and violent race. They conquer planets, enslave others, and use violence to resolve conflicts."

"They have visited many planets under the guise of 'Empire' and, once they have captured a world, they conduct experiments under the guise of 'Science'..."

"Leaving Asgard's fate in their hands would be far worse than Ragnarök. Moreover, their reign ended long ago due to their evil deeds. So, this option is not viable."

Odin shook his head, disheartened.

Thor, understanding the implications, was satisfied. He knew that Groot, the last of the Flora Colossi, was pure-hearted and peaceful, unlike his race. Groot had escaped the fate of his kind due to his unique nature.

"Alright, I'll keep an eye out," Thor said.

He considered finding the Guardians of the Galaxy and obtaining the gems he knew about.

Odin then patted Thor on the shoulder and said, "Go visit your mother. You haven't seen her in nearly seventy years."

Neither Odin nor Thor mentioned Hela, despite their thoughts on her. Odin's parenting had been challenging: Hela was rebellious, Thor had a fierce temper, and Loki was even more troublesome.

Speaking of Loki, he suddenly appeared in a golden circle of light from the ceiling, accompanied by anguished cries.

"..."

"Boom--"

Loki fell to the ground, and Thor approached him, teasing, "I haven't been gone for decades. Was such a dramatic entrance really necessary?"

Loki, in distress, muttered, "I... I free-fell for three days and nights!!!"

"Wasn't it only half an hour?" Thor asked, surprised, before realizing, "Oh, I see! So the Time Gem can be used this way?"