16

Chapter Sixteen: Change, Turnaround

"Is this... Asgard?"

Maya Hansen looked around in shock.

Asgard is arguably the most impressive planet in the MCU.

With its soaring skyscrapers, unique hovering architectural structures, and advanced technology, it stands as a testament to its superiority and grandeur.

At the same time, it exudes a medieval atmosphere, blending classical and futuristic elements in one place.

"Welcome to Asgard," Heimdallr said after giving Maya Hansen a thorough look.

"Heimdallr, this is a renowned scientist from Midgard whom I invited to Asgard," Thor introduced.

"Heimdallr is the guardian of the Bifrost and one of the finest warriors in Asgard."

"Hey, Thor, you're back! Did you find anything new on Earth?"

A heroic female warrior approached them and greeted Thor.

Sif, Asgard's foremost female warrior, goddess of land and harvest in Norse mythology, and Thor's childhood friend, was regarded as a future daughter-in-law by Odin and Frigg.

In Thor's memory, his past self and Sif shared a close bond, more like siblings and battle partners.

Thor's previous self was indeed a typical straight-laced individual.

Treating someone like a brother but having romantic intentions can be confusing...

"There were many interesting things, but the most exciting part was that I defeated Loki!"

The three Asgardian warriors who had rushed over burst into laughter. For them, defeating Loki was politically correct, though it was a shame that Thor, the only one who could have defeated him, was so easily pleased.

The blonde Fandral, known for his bravery and optimism, looked at Thor and Maya Hansen and joked, "Hey, Thor, aren't you worried Miss Sif's hair might get even wilder?"

Bravery and optimism often come with a lack of tact. Some things are best left unsaid...

The trio laughed, but Sif's glare quickly silenced them. In terms of combat prowess, even three of them together couldn't match her.

"Congratulations, Thor. You've triggered a Sif-related mission: As your childhood friend and wife in Norse mythology, you can reconsider your relationship with her. Please choose one of the missions to complete for your reward!"

"Mission 1: Reject Sif. Reward: A bar of soap (a real man should be with another man, not a woman!)"

"Mission 2: Explain yourself to Sif. Reward: Three random Infinity Gems experience vouchers. (The goddess has been waiting for you for over a thousand years; don't make her sad, show her you care!)"

It's not me making a fuss, but you, system!

Seeing Sif's calm face, though with a hint of sadness in her eyes, Thor stepped forward, gently smoothing her somewhat disheveled hair. "Don't frown. After all these years, how could I not understand your feelings?"

Sif's cheeks reddened rapidly. Although Thor had always treated her like one of the guys and it was common for them to hug after drinking, this time felt entirely different.

The trio began whistling.

Maya Hansen, observing from behind, muttered to herself, "Men really are pigs."

…

In the grand hall, a white-haired, one-eyed old man sat on the throne, scrutinizing his son. Even Thor, who had undergone his awakening, still felt the weight of his presence.

The ruler of the Nine Realms, the king of Asgard, is a top-tier powerhouse in the universe. In his youth, he had repelled Thanos, and even in old age, he remains a formidable figure, instilling fear and respect.

"You have exceeded my expectations, Thor," Odin said. "I had anticipated this.

In the past, you relied too heavily on Mjölnir.

To become a true god of thunder and prepare for future battles, you must overcome this reliance.

What surprises me is that you have achieved this realization on your own.

You will make an excellent king!"

There was relief in Odin's voice. It reflected his satisfaction with Thor's growth and his recent knowledge from Frigg that the prophecy of Ragnarök was becoming unclear.

This means that the seemingly unchangeable future now holds potential for a new path.

Loki twitched at the corners of his mouth, feeling that Thor's transformation might not be entirely favorable... at least, it meant the old brother might not be as lenient with him.