Chapter 111

Odin's Eye of the Storm is the highest level of offensive magic Abel learned in Asgard. In fact, no one else has ever learned this magic in Asgard because its principles have been integrated into the very core of Asgard's magical systems. This advanced magic has been repurposed into Asgard's magical technology weapons, making it inaccessible as a learnable spell. With Asgard's emphasis on heavy force and light magic, this powerful spell has been shelved and forgotten.

But now, in Abel's hands, Odin's Eye of the Storm reveals its true nature.

Abel's right hand, holding his magic wand, trembled slightly. He grasped his right wrist with his left hand to steady it while looking at the Extraordinary Dragon and the Mandarin below. Although they appeared battered, they were merely inconvenienced; under the Extraordinary Dragon's protection, the Mandarin was difficult to defeat.

The biggest problem, however, was that Abel's magical power was running low. Over the past year, he had used Asgard's rare magical resources to brew potions, significantly boosting his power—almost surpassing his peak levels from his previous life's graduation. But this growth wasn't limitless; the earlier battle had consumed most of his reserves.

A spell like Odin's Eye of the Storm was now beyond his reach.

Coincidentally, both Abel and the Mandarin were contemplating a retreat.

The Mandarin's interest in Abel stemmed from the unique power Abel wielded. Currently, the Mandarin is a master of his craft, wielding ten powerful rings—though he has only nine now. He seeks to increase his power, and gaining authority is one of the few reliable options left. Presently, the weakest authority on the planet resides with Abel, prompting the Mandarin to send his agent, the Doctor, to investigate and attempt contact.

However, as the Mandarin mentioned, the Doctor is a double agent, serving both the Ten Rings and Pioneer Technology. This dual loyalty often led the Doctor to pursue his own agenda. He was competent and usually managed to complete tasks satisfactorily, so his superiors tolerated his deviations.

In this instance, the Doctor's ambition drove him to seek the same power as Abel, causing him to overstep the Mandarin's orders. Instead of merely establishing contact, he tried to manipulate Treya to reach his goal, which ultimately led to his downfall. Furious, Abel killed the Doctor effortlessly.

This explains why the Mandarin immediately denied ordering the Doctor to act against Abel when they met.

Whether Abel knows the Doctor's actions originated from the Mandarin doesn't matter. What Abel wants is to project his willingness to retaliate against anyone targeting him. Should anyone dare threaten Treya, he would fight to the death.

The Mandarin has thus become Abel's object of establishing power.

Now, with the Mandarin gravely injured, the Extraordinary Dragon unable to pose a threat, and ten rings lost, the palace is in ruins. Abel's display of strength is sufficient.

Moreover, Abel understands that he cannot kill the Mandarin without risking further complications. He must conserve his remaining magic to prevent unforeseen dangers.

Simultaneously, the Mandarin, half-scorched, looked up at Abel, who appeared like a deity commanding the storm. He yearned to reclaim his ring but knew it was unlikely at this moment.

The Mandarin saw that Abel's power was nearly depleted, and though it was possible to defeat or even kill him at a cost, the Mandarin had to consider the repercussions. Behind Abel stood the mages of Kamar-Taj, especially the Ancient One, the current Sorcerer Supreme. No one could afford to ignore her presence.

Additionally, killing Abel would likely leave the Mandarin severely wounded. With many enemies, any sign of weakness could trigger attacks from those waiting for such an opportunity.

Opportunities to reclaim the rings would arise again. However, if his position weakened, it would be far harder to recover.

While Abel and the Mandarin weighed their options, a third intelligent creature—Extraordinary Dragon—was thinking about an entirely different matter.

"What should I have for supper tonight?"

"Yesterday's Australian beef felt a bit heavy. Maybe switch to Japanese Kobe beef?"

As Extraordinary Dragon contemplated his dinner plans, Abel and the Mandarin exchanged glances, simultaneously discerning each other's thoughts.

They both laughed lightly, and the Mandarin spoke first. "Mr. Xiao, I wonder if you're satisfied with this consultation?"

"Of course, I must thank Master Man for his cooperation."

"I wonder if Mr. Xiao would return my laser-beam ring?"

"Laser beam? I don't know what that is. I have only three rings: Kamar-Taj's sling ring, my own Ring of Frost, and the Energy Ring. I'm not familiar with a laser beam ring."

Hearing the mention of the sling ring, the Mandarin's eyes narrowed. The sling ring is a standard tool for Kamar-Taj's mages, but no one outside Kamar-Taj is qualified to possess one. It's a symbol of a mage's identity.

As for the Energy Ring, the Mandarin recognized it as his laser-beam ring, but he chose not to press the matter. He had no intention of escalating the conflict further. There would be other opportunities to reclaim it; there was no need to risk everything now.

With a smile, the Mandarin replied, "Then perhaps I misplaced it somewhere. No matter, I'll find it later. As my palace is largely destroyed, I won't impose on you any longer."

Abel smiled and nodded. "I must visit my mother and ensure her well-being. I'll take my leave then."

With that, Abel waved his wand, dispelled his magic, opened a portal, and disappeared before the Mandarin's eyes.