148

Chapter 148: Hela Returns

Heimdall looked at the scroll with a mix of doubt and shock. His eyes widened as he read.

"This…"

He glanced at Frigga with trembling hands. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

Frigga sighed. "I believe he will understand."

Although revealing Odin's dark history at this moment was inappropriate, it was the only way to potentially mitigate Hela's anger.

On the coast of northern Norway, the sea breeze suddenly grew turbulent. Seagulls squawked nervously, fleeing in a panic as if something terrifying was making them tremble in fear.

The pale sky began to darken. Above, a massive black cloud appeared, growing larger and more ominous. It quickly obscured the light, plunging the coast into an increasingly gloomy darkness.

The black cloud descended lower and lower, so thick it seemed touchable, creating an oppressive atmosphere.

Ahead, a mass of black energy twisted and dark green light flickered as a slender figure emerged.

The Goddess of Death—Hela!

Hela took a deep breath of the salty air, opened her eyes, and sneered. "So, it seems he's dead? What a pity. I wanted to see his end with my own eyes."

Thor composed himself and greeted her. "It's good to see you again."

Hela sneered. "Oh? You don't even want to call me 'sister'?"

Loki, terrified by this formidable opponent, was initially panicked. But thinking of Thor's prowess, he gained some confidence. He said playfully, "Maybe we can talk this out!"

"Ah, you're quite like him," Hela said, "but you're so weak you embarrass Asgard. You're far from impressive."

"Nevertheless, you're somewhat acceptable. Kneel before your queen, and I might reluctantly accept you as a strategic advisor."

"A slave strategist?" Loki choked with anger and retorted, "Damn it! I'll wipe that smirk off your face. Come at me if you dare; I'm not afraid of you!"

With a swift motion, Loki drew his daggers and charged.

Thor pushed him aside. "Brother, watch out for her!"

Thor:

Hela:

Thor covered his face, regretting that he had thought his brother had made progress with negotiation. He now felt like whipping Loki on the spot.

He did just that, kicking Loki towards Hela.

Hela responded with a kick of her own, finding Loki's antics somewhat embarrassing.

"Boom—boom—boom—"

The first round ended in a draw.

"Damn… Stop it!"

Loki, now pleading for a reprieve, rolled aside, gritting his teeth.

He felt like the protagonist of a martial arts novel caught between two masters competing fiercely.

Loki brushed off the dust and said angrily, "You two settle your own scores! The throne will definitely not fall to me!"

He was exasperated, seeing that neither of these individuals was the type to show mercy or regard for him.

Hela raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Yes, you're right. You really don't deserve the throne."

She turned to Thor. "So, what's your decision?"

"I think we'll have to fight today," Thor said calmly.

Hela raised her hand, and a slender sword materialized. She smiled lightly. "As a sister, I'll let you have the first move. Show me your strongest attack, like throwing your hammer with all your might."

Thor's expression shifted. "I'm afraid you'll be disappointed. I don't need a hammer right now."

He reached out, and Stormbreaker appeared. The divine power from the weapon spread outwards.

Hela's eyes widened as she reconsidered the younger brother she had previously dismissed.

"I admit, I underestimated you. Your progress has surpassed my expectations," Hela said, her tone serious. "But is this the source of your confidence?"

Thor didn't respond. He activated the Sling Ring, drawing a teleportation circle, and stepped through.

In this intense confrontation, Loki was a hindrance.

Neither Hela nor Thor took the initiative, both glaring at each other. The immense divine power seemed to condense into a tangible force, creating a stifling pressure around them.

The battle was on the brink of eruption.

"Stop it!"