Following Thor, Lan Xingyu and the others arrived at a military training base. Thor’s popularity among the soldiers was evident, with many greeting him warmly and showing deep respect. Thor, in turn, interacted with them as if they were brothers, displaying no princely arrogance. This surprised Xingyu a little. Given Thor’s slightly arrogant personality, Xingyu expected him to have a few detractors, but the atmosphere was quite harmonious.
As they neared the dueling hall, they encountered three important supporting characters from the first Thor movie: the Warriors Three.
The Warriors Three consisted of Volstagg, Fandral, and Hogun.
Volstagg was a large, rotund man and a friend of Thor. In his youth, Volstagg was a strong and powerful Asgardian warrior, but his love for food and drink led to his current rotund state. Despite this, Volstagg retained his formidable combat abilities.
Fandral, in contrast, was slender and gave off an air of agility. He was an Asgardian warrior and an adventurer, boasting of his skills as a swordsman and his romantic appeal. Fandral often found himself in precarious situations due to his bravery and optimism. He fancied himself a ladies’ man, though his actual success with women was mixed. Despite his flaws, Fandral had a noble spirit and would do the right thing, regardless of personal risk.
Hogun, unlike most Asgardians, was not an Aesir. His unknown homeland had long ago been conquered by the “Mogul of the Mystic Mountain,” who killed Hogun’s ancestors and destroyed his homeland. He was characterized by his abrupt, silent, and often sullen demeanor.
Despite their diverse personalities, Thor managed to unite them, earning the title of the Warriors Three. Xingyu thought silently that Thor, despite his personality flaws, was indeed a good leader. However, the thought of seeing Thor humiliated in front of his friends made Xingyu smile mischievously.
The Warriors Three greeted Thor enthusiastically but straightened up and saluted when they saw Frigga following. After Frigga indicated they could relax, Volstagg asked, “Thor, you just returned, didn’t you? Why are you back so soon?”
“I’m here for a fight!” Thor replied, slightly embarrassed. The teasing from Xingyu had led to this challenge, and now he felt a bit awkward about fighting a child publicly.
“Enough talk. I’m heading inside,” Thor said hastily, running into the dueling hall to avoid further embarrassment. Oh, what have I gotten myself into? My reputation!
Regardless of Thor’s feelings, Xingyu and the others followed him into the dueling hall. The Warriors Three, curious about who Thor would be dueling, also followed. Inside, they saw Lady Sif, who was putting away her gear, ready to leave.
Lady Sif, with her distinctive black hair and determined look, asked the Warriors Three why they had returned. Before they could answer, Frigga spoke up, “Thor is going to duel this young friend, Lan Xingyu.” She pointed to Xingyu, who was also heading to the dueling platform.
“What! With him, a child? By Odin’s beard! Thor, I didn’t expect you to stoop to bullying children,” Volstagg laughed heartily.
Frigga continued, “You shouldn’t underestimate little Xingyu. Odin has approved this duel as well.” Her words shocked everyone, including Thor, who was already on the platform. What? Father agreed to this duel? This isn’t just a simple spar then.
At that moment, a portal appeared on the platform, and Odin and the Ancient One stepped out.
“Indeed, I have approved this duel,” Odin confirmed. “Xingyu, fight without reservation. This will be a good lesson for Thor, to understand that there is always someone stronger. As long as you don’t kill him, anything goes.” Odin’s words were shocking. Was this child stronger than Thor? How could that be?
Frigga, more composed, had been informed by Odin about the events and learned that Xingyu was the newly emerged Heavenly Father-level powerhouse. The news had nearly made her stumble in shock. No wonder Xingyu’s speed during the rescue was too fast for her to see.
Xingyu, seeing Odin’s presence, knew the duel’s stakes had risen. Their previous bet would now be witnessed by the King of Asgard, making it binding. He felt the need to clarify this with Odin but didn’t get a chance before Odin spoke again.
“Your previous wager still stands. Every warrior must take responsibility for their words. This duel will be judged by myself, Frigga, and the Ancient One. I hope both of you will give it your best,” Odin declared.
The gravity of Odin’s words stunned everyone. In Asgard, duels judged by Odin and Frigga were of the highest order. Who was this child to warrant such attention? And who was the woman in the yellow robe? Could she stand on equal footing with Odin? By Odin’s beard, this was turning their worldview upside down!
While others were shocked, Xingyu felt indifferent. He initially worried the bet might affect Asgard’s honor, but if Odin didn’t mind, why should he? He wouldn’t pass up a free little brother.
Thor, however, had grown serious. With Odin involved, this was no ordinary duel. He needed to give it his all to show respect for his opponent and himself.
Unlike the now-serious Thor, Xingyu leisurely walked up, hands in his pockets, and stood casually. He seemed completely relaxed.
Odin, seeing both were ready, asked, “Are you both prepared?”
Hearing this, Thor suddenly remembered something and ran down from the platform to place his hammer, Mjolnir, aside. The duel needed to be as fair as possible, and since Xingyu had no weapon, neither could Thor use his.
With a solemn nod, Thor returned to the platform, ready for the duel to begin.
Become a Patron read up to 60 chapter ahead public release ^_^
Please join Discord Server so we can talk ^_^
