Remnant's Mightiest Heroes!

by I Am The Prophet

A day came unlike any other when Remnant found itself conquered by an alien force. On that day, eight students escape seeking a way to save their people. On a world filled with the universe's mightiest heroes.

35. Winter is Coming

Remnant's Mightiest Heroes!

Chapter 26: Winter is Coming

[~][~]

November 18, 17:00 (Eastern Standard Time)

Avengers Tower, New York

"Ruby for the last time, you are not bringing all these comics!" Weiss scolded with her hands on her hips. The members of Team RWBY are inside their temporary room in Avengers Tower. Today is the day they leave for space training. Given Earth's history of alien invasion, it felt necessary for them to learn spatial warfare combat should the need arise. Something they readily agreed with. They don't remember the details of their crash landing on Earth, but they sure as hell don't want to repeat that. So, they agreed unanimously and without hesitation.

Unfortunately, they ran into a complication. Namely their leader's bag which is stuffed to the brim with comic books. It looked like it was going to burst at any moment. The silver-eyed girl is making a fuss about it.

"Oh, come on, Weiss!" Ruby whined. "Can't a girl take her comics as entertainment for a weekend trip?"

"There's nothing wrong with binging a comic. It's a problem if you try to bring a library's worth!" Weiss pointed out. "We're supposed to pack a couple of changes of clothes, including our gear, and essentials such as a tube of toothpaste and a toothbrush. You make it look like we're going to be staying there for a long time! Why not just pick one you like so much?"

"But I like all of them so much!" Ruby whined with a puppy-eyed look. In the past, it might've worked and allowed her to get her way. But her teammates gave her a flat look that told her that it won't work. Not this time.

"Come on Ruby, let's be reasonable," Yang smiled as she tried to reason with her. The blonde grabbed her sister's bag and opened it. "Let's go through every one of your comics and pick out one you like the most. I know there's that comic with Captain America fighting the Son of Egypt that you like so much."

"I also like the one where Iron Man takes out a Titanium Man. And where Thor is swinging Mjolnir on rock monsters from Saturn," Ruby added, snatching away her bag. "I don't see you complaining about Blake's X-Men comics! She's got as much as I do!"

"Don't try to involve me in this. The difference is that I also buy digital versions for reading purposes. Not pack them haphazardly in one bag," Blake said defensively from her bunk bed, turning her head to hide an embarrassed blush. "The hard copies are properly kept in a safe place in mint condition. Looking at your bag, I'm sure glad that I am not letting you have them. Let alone near them. They'll be destroyed in a matter of days."

"Blake, I'm hurt by your words!" Ruby gasped. "And when did you become a comic book expert?"

"I am not an expert. I'm a collector. It's a hobby that I developed when I started collecting X-Men issues," Blake corrected with a narrowed gaze. "Something that I enjoy. If you want, I can help you take proper care of your comics when we get back. But for God's sake, pick one comic and leave the rest before you destroy them. Or would you rather spend more money trying to replace the issues you lost? While we're on the subject, has it ever occurred to you that you can buy comic books on your scroll?"

Everybody stared at Ruby, who puffed her cheeks in indignation. After a few seconds, she deflated, recognizing her defeat. Begrudgingly, she put her bag on the bottom bed and began pulling some comics out. Her teammates gave her a hand with emptying her bag and sorting them into piles.

"Honestly, I don't see why they make comics like these," Weiss sighs she pulled out an Avengers issue and begins smoothing it out. "I mean, they have actual superheroes running around. They claim that they're based on actual events, but they don't provide an accurate description of what transpired."

"Hey, they got to make a living somehow," Blake defended as she builds another pile. "Besides, they did get most of the details right. Although the Avengers battle with the Serpent Society has a few discrepancies. Bruce made it clear that Hulk didn't tie them all into a knot. But it's still enjoyable to read nonetheless."

"I suppose they are entitled to their works of art," Weiss admitted as she taps a stack of comics against the bed to straighten them. "Frankly, I'm surprised that you have an interest in comics. I figured you would be reading dirty books."

"Hey, I have my specific tastes besides that," Blake said defensively. "Especially Manga. By the way, I am more than aware that it is the Japanese style of comic books and graphic novels. There also happens to be Light Novels, the written version of the series."

"Wasn't going to," Weiss said as she finishes another pile before she became curious. "What manga are you into?"

"Doreen introduced me to the 'Naruto' series," Blake replied. "It's about a young ninja and his quest to become Hokage. It means Fire Shadow in Japanese. A title bestowed on the village's leader and the strongest shinobi. But sealed inside him is a Nine-Tailed Fox demon that attacked the village. Because of that, he's been treated like an outcast most of his life. I like how despite the prejudice he didn't let that stop him from trying to achieve his dream. The visualization of the action scenes and ninjutsu is better than just imagining it."

"Really?" Weiss asked in intrigue. "I think I might get a look at it when I get the chance."

"Wait. You read the manga too?"

"What? I can't read a good story when I want to?" Weiss asked with a raised eyebrow. "I happen to be reading Black Butler now. It takes place in Victorian-Era England. The protagonist, Ciel Phantomhive is a young nobleman who serves the Queen as her guard dog as well as a member of the Aristocrats of Evil. Although the title is a little morbid, it's appropriate because the organization's purpose is to eliminate all sources of the Queen's distress and stamp out illegal acts in the underworld that may affect polite society. With any means at their disposal. Given the nature of the crimes in question, it's understandable why they took the measures necessary. He has a butler, Sebastian Michaelis, who is a demon that faithfully serves him. He reminds me of the family butler, Klein Sieben."

"Was he anything like Sebastian?"

"He isn't a demon. I would be offended if anyone called him that. But I will say that there would be times when he's a different person," Weiss explains as her expression becomes forlorn. "Every chapter is describing the Butler's characteristics. I'd say that some of them suit Klein quite well. Klein's always there whenever I'm feeling down and cheers me up when I'm feeling low. Even makes my father behind his back to cheer me up. It makes me wish that he were my father instead…"

Weiss let that sentence trail off. Her cat ears drooped as Blake knew what she was thinking about without even hearing it. The former heiress is worried about the fate of her beloved butler. Her family is more than dysfunctional. An abusive father who cares more about maximizing his profits and image. Her mother Willow who's become a drunk when she found out her husband was a gold digger. The youngest sibling, Whitley, whom Jacques is raising to be a mini version of himself. Aside from her older sister Winter, he's also part of the only family she has left. Now that Kang is hunting people who brought about a horrible future, she feared that he would target them. Part of her doubted that because Kang is targeting people like Salem and her henchmen. If Klein is anything like Weiss described, there is no way that he'll go after him.

Blake knew how she was feeling. Her parents, Ghira and Kali Belladonna are former members of the White Fang. Before Sienna Khan took over and turned the organization on a violent path, her father was the leader. Given that that they helped create the Brotherhood, she dreaded that he'll go after them for their transgressions. Or worse, he'll go after her parents because she is their daughter. She hoped that hasn't happened. If he laid a hand on them, there is no telling what she would do.

"Are we talking about manga?" Yang asked, interrupting her thoughts.

"Y-yeah. What's your favorite?" Blake said, thankful for the change in topic. The look on her face convinced her partner not to pursue the subject.

"Dragon Ball," Yang answered without hesitation. "It's a great tale about a young warrior named Son Goku who is on a quest to become stronger and gather the titular Dragon Balls. When all seven are gathered, they can grant any wish of choice. Nearly every chapter is an intense and epic battle between Goku and some poor unfortunate soul. Sometimes he loses but he gets back up and wins. Especially with the Kamehameha move. But in the beginning, most of the scenes were freaking hilarious. I mean it's got to be embarrassing to lose to a 12-year-old kid, right?"

"That would be embarrassing," Blake admitted with a giggle.

"And…DONE!" Ruby declared as she stood up and clapped her hands. The bed is covered in neatly stacked piles of comics. Her bags are like an empty sacks of rice. Weiss peeked inside the bag and gave Ruby a flat look.

"There is barely enough room for the essentials," Weiss stated dryly. "Or a change of clothes."

"What? They're there aren't they?" Ruby insisted, gesturing to her deflated bag. Weiss pinched the bridge of her nose but didn't pursue the issue further. She began helping Ruby to sort her bag.

"So, what were you guys talking about?"

"Favorite manga. What's yours?"

"No question about it. Soul Eater," Ruby replied with a smile. "I said before that our weapons are like our partners, but the series outright defines it! The Meisters are partnered with Demon Weapons, sentient beings who can take human form and have their unique personality. That's the case for Maka and Soul. A guy who can transform into a scythe. It gets even better with Bleach! A part of your soul that acts as your weapon and has a will of its own!"

"I don't need to guess that you would want that with Crescent Rose," Yang guessed to which Ruby nodded energetically.

"But what I like best about them is aside from soulless monsters they must fight to protect the innocent and the people they love, there is an enemy that is too powerful to defeat. One with an overpowered ability like deciding the future and setting it in stone. Like the final boss of the game. Yet the protagonists were able to find a way to defeat them. Even if it's just fiction, It brings me hope that we can do the same thing."

Her teammates became solemn as she grasped her meaning. Salem and the Creatures of Grimm she can command. They can kill every Grimm she can send, but her immortality makes it almost impossible to destroy her. But that doesn't mean she can't be defeated. Perhaps they could even find a way to permanently end her threat once and for all.

"I get what your feeling. All of us do," Yang said before patting a comic book pile. "Okay, Ruby. Pick a comic that you want to bring with you."

Ruby scanned the pile. Then her eyes settled on the cover of a comic. It displayed the original six Avengers combat-ready. Iron Man. Hulk. Thor. Captain America. Hawkeye. Black Widow. Standing in front of an army of gray-skinned reptilian-looking aliens is Loki, the god of mischief himself with a scepter in hand. She reached over and picked it up.

"I'm going to go with this one," Ruby declared. "This is where the Avengers Assembled for the first time to fight against Loki and save New York from the Chitauri. And I'm a fan of the classics."

Her teammates smiled at her choice. But it is quickly replaced by a frown that she shared. After the events of that day, they've been going over the Datacrux files regarding Loki and his cohorts for more information. Thor explained to them that the Asgardians are a mixture of two tribes. The Æsir and the Vanir. The Æsir, the tribe of Asgard, are known for their warlike nature and association with knowledge. The Vanir, the tribe of Vanaheim, are known for their connection to nature and magic. They're often known as the Wise Gods of Old. Their union came to be after the great Æseir-Vanir war, which was won by the Æsir. Although Thor corrected them that the war was fought to a standstill. Both sides were weary of the conflict and agreed to a truce that led to a union in which both tribes can become Asgardian.

Amora, the Enchantress, is born of the tribe of the Vanir. Although she is born on Asgard at some point in time. While in adolescence, she ran away to the land of the Norns and apprenticed herself to Karnilla, one of the most powerful sorceresses in all of Asgard. There she studied the basic arts of Asgardian magic until Karnilla expelled her for being too undisciplined. She picked up further mystical skills and knowledge by seducing Asgardian mages and wizards, forcing them to reveal their ancient secret to her until she surpassed them. She became a powerful sorceress in the nine realms. Eventually, she tried to seduce Thor for the throne. But when he saw through it and rejected her for someone else, she made it her mission to destroy Thor's life. A master of manipulation and seduction, she's teamed up with other villains and even help formed the Masters of Evil.

But wherever she goes, her bodyguard, Skurge the Executioner, wouldn't be far behind. He was born the illegitimate son of a Storm Giant and an Asgardian from the realm of Skornheim. Later, he became a warrior, eventually one of Asgard's finest, fighting in a war against the Storm Giants. It was how he got the name Executioner. He is one of many men who had been seduced by Amora into assisting her in her many schemes. His main weapon is the Bloodaxe. An axe that can fire waves of fire or ice. During the War of the Nine Realms, the Hulk fought the Executioner and won his weapon as a battle trophy. He is a dangerous enemy to come across.

"So aside from fighting an Executioner, how are we going to fight a couple of godlike sorcerers?" Yang asked, throwing her hands up. "I mean, possibly aside from Weiss' summoning glyphs, none of us can perform magic. I for one do not want to get turned into a pig again."

"Me neither," Blake said with a shudder, remembering the day Loki turned them into pigs just in time for a party of Asgardian Hunters to make them a feast.

"I do not taste good," Ruby mumbled fearfully.

"I've been talking to Doctor Strange about that actually," Weiss said. "With all this talk about anti-magic measures, I thought I'd consult the experts on that. Believe it or not, he mentioned a substance called the Sands of Nisanti."

"The Sands of Nisanti?"

"As the name implies, they are sands that contain the power of a demon called Nisanti. I know you would have reservations about using the power of a demon, but what is interesting are its anti-magic properties. He said there are instances in which winning a magic duel cannot be about pure magical skill, but must revolve around ingenuity. The spell is a time-honored way to even the playing field by using it against an opponent who possesses more magical knowledge and ability. People like Amora and Loki. Doctor Strange demonstrated the spell to me. An hourglass appeared in front of me and turned itself upside down. For three minutes, neither sorcerer can cast a spell."

"That sound handy," Ruby said before noticing a detail. "But wait, wouldn't that mean Doctor Strange can't use magic either?"

"Yeah, it's a double-edged sword. However, the Masters of the Mystic Arts mix martial arts into their training regimen. Just in case they are in a fight where they can't use magic. Especially when you can call upon non-magic allies to help you out."

"So, the sorcerer supreme is a kung-fu wizard too?" Yang asked with a raised eyebrow. Weiss rolled her eyes."

"Yes. He is a kung-fu wizard. But that's beside the point. Aside from finding a way to extend the spell's duration, a sorcerer discovered a way to harvest the sands to use as a relic. If we could access the sands, we can make anti-magic countermeasures such as weapons and ammunition. Or in my case, an ant-magic glyph."

That piqued her teammate's interest. Already they could think of ways to utilize the sands of Nisanti. But they must wonder how they are going to implement sand into their weapons. Perhaps Infusing them with metal would be one way. That way they can forge weapons and ammunition with anti-magic properties. Or, if they are getting creative, create a type of grenade that can disperse the sand into the air. That could be useful to have if they encountered Loki again. It would dispel his illusions or as in the case of the day of the Wild Hunt, hopefully, dispel magic-induced transformations.

But their thoughts went back to Remnant. Back to Salem. Aside from being able to control the Grimm, one of the advantages she held was her magic. One of the most powerful next to Ozpin's first life was Ozma. Now they have a way to deprive her of that advantage. The Sands of Nisanti can disrupt her magic. They're not sure if that extends to the Grimm, but perhaps they can find a way to isolate her. Either way, they have a weakness that they can take advantage of.

"Do you think Strange will let us have some?"

"We'll have to ask him first," Weiss said. "But turns out, I'm not the only one who thought of utilizing it. I brought it up with Stark and he was thinking the same thing. He's way ahead of us in the anti-magic department if he's not already. He mentioned making nanomachines that can replicate the effects of the sands of Nisanti. So that's something we can fall back on in case we can't utilize the actual material."

"I bet we could help out too," Ruby chimed in. "You know like compare notes and weapon schematic."

"Perhaps I can assist by forwarding your request to Master Stark," JARVIS spoke up on the intercom, making the girls jump. "In the meantime, I've been asked to remind you and team JNPR that your presence is required in the hangar and you are about to be late."

"Crud! Thanks, JARVIS!" Ruby said to the AI butler as she and her team grabbed their bags and ran out of their room. They are met with their sister team, JNPR. They appeared to be running late as well. It brought a sense of nostalgia from their first day in the first semester at Beacon Academy. As they ran, Jaune glanced in their direction.

"Running late too?"

"Yep," Ruby said with a small pop. "We were talking about different topics and Weiss kept complaining about my baggage."

"You were packing too many comic books!" Weiss indignantly called out. Ruby just rolled her eyes at her.

"Let me guess? You guys were also talking about Loki?"

"Yeah. It came up. Along with ideas about countermeasures. What gave you that idea?"

"Well…" Jaune gestured to Ren and Nora who are deep in conversation.

"I mean how would I know you're Ren? How would I know if I am me? Oh wait…how do I know that we're both Loki!"

"Nora, I told you everything that only I would know," Ren said in exasperation. "Wanda set up magical defenses in case he tries to break in. So that means I'm not Loki. None of us are. I even used my semblance to prove it."

"Okay, but what if I was Loki in disguise and trying to glean information about my personal life? Wait…what if you're Loki and trying to do the same thing to me? We need to think of a way to identify each other! How about a sloth noise?"

"Yeah, she gets like that whenever the topic comes up," Jaune said with a sigh. "Just don't mention invisibility. She'll get into a tirade about how Loki could be invisible and standing right next to us, plotting something, for a lack of a better word, mischievous."

"She wouldn't be wrong on both accounts," Pyrrha points out. "Someone as devious as Loki can be anywhere."

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement. It had been days since Loki last reared his head. Yet he has not once shown himself again. Whatever he's planning, it must require his attention elsewhere. He must have wanted them to start panicking so that they make mistakes. An enemy in confusion is helpful to a trickster.

After taking the elevator down, both teams made it to the hangar of Avengers Tower. It is a massive, industrial-style room with high ceilings and concrete floors. It is well-lit with a combination of artificial and natural light, thanks to the large windows that line the walls. The room is designed to accommodate the various modes of transportation including the Quinjet on a large circular platform that can be raised or lowered. There are other vehicles such as Sky-Cycles, an old chopper, and even vehicles meant for ground transportation. Extending out into the open air is the runway/ramp allowing them to exit the tower.

Standing near two Black Chevy Suburban SUVs are Tony Stark and Captain Rogers. They are talking to two S.H.I.E.L.D agents they recognize as Deputy Director Maria Hill and Agent Phil Coulson. When they heard their footsteps, they turned to face them.

"You guys have a real knack for being almost late, don't you," Stark snickers in amusement with his arms crossed.

"I'm sorry that it took us so long," Ruby apologized quickly. "We had a lot on our mind. With Loki, the Enchantress, and the Executioner."

"That and Ruby overstuffed her bag with comics, and we had to empty it," Blake said flatly. Ruby shot her a brief look of betrayal, but Blake didn't seem to care.

"While understand your love for comics, please keep in mind that we asked you to pack the essentials as well," Steve points out with a stern look, causing Ruby to deflate. "But aside from that, good job for being on time."

"If you were one of our Agents, you would've been written up," Hill added sternly.

"Nice to see you too Hill," Yang greeted with a roll of her eyes. "What are you doing here?"

"Director Fury task me and Agent Coulson to act as your chauffeurs to the Peak," Hill replied with Coulson nodding in agreement. "We have a meeting with Director Brand regarding the relocation of assets. Captain Rogers requested us to transport you to take your crash course in astronaut training. Given your lack of experience and seeing as we get to kill two birds with one stone…"

"We accepted his request," Coulson added with a hint of glee in his voice. Hill just rolled her eyes at Coulson's attitude but said nothing. Others just smiled.

"Wouldn't it be easier for them to transport us there on the Quinjet?" Jaune asked the Captain, pointing to the jet in question. "Not that I'm complaining."

"We have to remain here on standby," Captain America explained. "Loki's put us on high alert, and we need to be ready. I've also called a meeting of our own to discuss plans and countermeasures so that when he shows his face, we'll be ready to respond."

"Speaking of which, I'm still working on a nanite version of the Sands of whatever," Tony said flippantly. "JARVIS let me know you guys want to help. During your crash course, you can think of brilliant ideas. If you thought of something, let me know and I'll let you access my lab."

"Really?" Ruby asked with stars in her eyes. "You'll let us into your lab?"

"Well, the fabricator I gave you is there, so yeah," Tony said with a shrug. "Plus, it would be nice to have a few fresh faces aside from Bruce working on a project."

"Doctor Strange has made magical artifacts before Tony," Steve points out to the armored Avenger. "You should consult with him in making the anti-magic measures we could need."

"I'm sure he's busy making sure Cthulhu's asleep," Tony said waving a hand dismissively. "Besides, we can't just leave everything to the master of hocus pocus. If he suddenly dies and has no substitute supreme, we'll be in big trouble. We've got brains for a reason, and I for one intend to use mine."

The captain only pinched the bridge of his nose but said nothing. The remnantian teens got the feeling that he had this discussion with Tony before. While there are magical beings such as Thor and Doctor Strange, Tony believes magic to be a science that he has yet to figure out. On one hand, he's correct that they need to develop measures in cases where magical help is unavailable. It would be handy to have a device to counter the effects of magic used by supervillains. But that doesn't mean they should dismiss experts on the magical world as their knowledge can be invaluable.

"I hope I'm not interrupting."

Everyone's attention is drawn to the portal that blinked into existence. Coming out is Doctor Strange himself. They could make out the hallway of what Weiss described as his Sanctum Sanctorum. Floating next to him is a glass jar. Inside they could see green sand giving off an ethereal glow.

"Good evening, Doctor Strange," Weiss greeted with a bow.

"The same to you Miss Schnee," Strange returned. He looked towards the S.H.I.E.L.D agents and said, "I hope your astronaut training goes well for all of you."

"How did you—"Jaune began.

"He can read our minds, so of course he knows," Weiss declares, remembering her first encounter with the sorcerer. He insisted that he reads the surface thoughts, but she suspected that if puts himself to it he can read everything in her brain. Briefly, she wondered if that would take some kind of spell to do that. Strange seemed to be reading her thoughts again because he gave a subtle nod toward her.

"Really?" Nora asked with a grin. She waved over to the Doctor and said, "Hey Doc! What number am I thinking right now?"

"I'm not a stage magician meant for entertainment, Miss Valkyrie," Strange said sternly. "Besides, you're not thinking of a number. You're thinking of flapjacks."

Nora's mouth made an 'o' as she held a hand over her mouth. Her teammates, especially Ren, gave her looks of amusement as if they guessed that was what she was thinking of.

"Hey, Doc. Nice of you to come," Tony greeted as he extended his hand. His eyes zeroed in on the floating jar, "Is that the Anti-Magic sand you promised me."

"The Sands of Nisanti," Strange corrects as he gestured the jar forward. Tony held up his hands to receive it. "The jar is letting me levitate it without disrupting my magic. Stark, If you are going to experiment with this, I would advise caution. Although you don't possess an aptitude for the mystic arts, the sands are incredibly powerful and dangerous if mishandled."

"Doc. Sometimes you've got to run before you can walk," Tony said. "Frankly it's how we find out what we're not supposed to do and avoid it in the future. You've done me a huge favor by bringing this up. Thank you very much."

With that said Tony took his leave. Everyone watched him go, especially Strange who had an exasperated look on his face.

"I could've forged a relic that could apply the same effect if he asked," Doctor Strange said offhandedly, drawing everyone's attention.

"You can?"

"Of course. It's one of the things that I've learned as a student in the mystic arts," Strange declares. "One harsh lesson we sorcerers learned is that there would come a time when long-trusted magics will begin to fail us. So, we rely on magical relics for their power and there are plenty. The Wand of Watoomb. The Vaulting Boots of Valtorr. Even my Cloak of Levitation. It is for that reason that I established my Sanctum Machina. With the help of a Faltine Furnance and thousands of ingredients of power, I can forge any relic I set my mind to."

"Does that include weapons?" Ruby asked curiously with a little bit of hope.

"Of course. Weapons are among the things I can forge—" Strange was cut off when Ruby suddenly appeared in front of him with a burst of rose petals.

"OOH! What sort of weapons are they? Can I see them?" Ruby asked with excitement. Each question made her invade the sorcerer Supreme's space inch by inch.

"My partner has a love of weapons," Weiss explained. "Back on Remnant, we have forging techniques that infuse dust into metal. We think that they can be used to infuse the Sands of Nisanti into our weapons. But given the magical nature of the sands, as you implied, there is the possibility of a dangerous mishap. We would feel better if we worked with an expert on the matter. With your consent of course."

"I will be more than willing to assist in the creation of anti-magic weapons," Strange said. "I keep a long list of them and not all are people that I could handle alone. Loki and Amora are at the top of my list. Provided that you do not intend to use the weapons and material to kill me and other sorcerers. I've already had a former colleague who attempted to all of us out. I don't want another repeat."

"Don't worry. I speak for everybody and promise that we won't go crazy and start a witch hunt," Yang said with a roll of her eyes everyone nodding. "While we're on the subject, do you think we can learn magic?"

"Anyone can learn magic provided that they have the drive, dedication, and willpower needed to develop the talent into a true skill," Strange answers. Yang gave a fist bump, but her joy is short-lived as he said, "But if you are asking me to teach you, then I would advise against pursuing it."

"Why? You helped Weiss with her summoning glyphs."

"That's because she wasn't properly channeling dimensional energy required to summon," Strange explains. "Don't get me wrong. I'm not refusing because I don't think you can't. It's that the amount of time and effort it would take to learn would better be served to hone the skills you've spent your entire lives crafting. It took me years of intense study and practice to earn my Ph.D. It took me another for me to become a master of the mystic arts and by extension the Sorcerer Supreme. Back on Remnant, you've already spent most of your childhood training to become Huntsmen and Huntresses. I believe what you have already learned is more than enough than spending twice that time learning magic."

He took a moment of silence to let the meaning of his words sink in. The Remnantian teens felt disappointed that he is advising them against learning how to harness magic. They dismissed the possibility when the Brothers wiped out the first wave of their race and left the second generation with only a semblance of what they had. Given its many applications, it would be a handy thing to have if only to prevent Salem from destroying their world. Wanda had demonstrated the capabilities. Telekinesis, telepathy, transformation, teleportation, even the safe applications of her chaos magic. They could think of a million other things they could use magic, most of it involves kicking the butt of villains. Especially Salem.

But they understand his reasons. As far as they know, they have spent most of their years training to become protectors of Remnant. There are grueling hours spent studying at combat schools before attending one of the Four Academies. Forge techniques, weapon techniques, history, Grimm Types, battle tactics, aura, and semblances. From the way Strange spoke, they certainly don't want to go through years and years of practice and study. Besides, they're happy with their training as it got them out of sticky situations. They made it so far without the aid of magic the Brothers once provided, so why stop now?

"I wouldn't part with my baby," Ruby said, feeling Crescent Rose in its compact form.

"Eh, I prefer to punch people's faces in any way," Yang said with a shrug. "So just to be clear, it's okay if we stop by your Sanctum or whatever and see this forge?"

"Of course. If you are going up against mystical threats, I would prefer you do it well prepared," Strange said. "And I suppose for your team leader's sake, I can perhaps show you some of my creations."

"That will be great!" Ruby squealed.

With a wave of his hand, Strange opened a portal behind him. "But I believe I overstayed my welcome. I need to continue my investigation into what Loki could be planning. I wish you well in your latest training exercise. You know where to find me if you need my assistance."

The portal closed after he stepped through it. They hoped that he would find something about Loki's plans and put a stop to them.

"Couldn't we ask him if he could just take us to our destination?" Jaune suddenly asked. "The portal thing would be faster."

"Son, you are not going to take the easy way out," Steve cuts him off with a stern look. "The ride to the peak will give you a firsthand experience of the effects of escape velocity. It will give your body a chance to adapt. Everyone undergoing this training has gone through it and so are you. Especially Reentry."

"You're going to want to believe him on that. The boys and girls of S.W.O.R.D consider it a rite of passage," Coulson points out. "There's a saying that goes around them. If you can't keep face, then you shouldn't be in space."

Jaune can only gulp at the implications. He slowly reached into his bag and pulled out his bottle of medicine for his motion sickness and began opening it. Pyrrha patted his back in sympathy.

"Hill and Coulson, take care of them," Steve said as he took his leave as well. The Captain gave them a salute as he made his way to the elevator.

"Alright then. Team RWBY you're with me. Team JNPR you'll go with Agent Coulson," Hill ordered with a wave of her hand. Immediately, the teams followed them to two black Chevy SUVs. It wasn't until they got in and strap themselves in that they realized something.

"Umm…I just realized but why are we taking cars to a space station?" Ruby asked as she is seated in the front passenger seat. The Deputy Director of S.H.I.E.L.D gave her a sideways smirk.

"Looks like you need to re-read the S.H.I.E.L.D manual. Especially the vehicle section," Hill said as she grips the wheel. "Hang on!"

Before they could say anything else, Hill presses her foot on the gas. The car began speeding towards the ramp leading to the landing pad. They felt their hearts leap to their throats as Hill showed no signs of stopping.

"Deputy Director Hill!" Weiss squeaked in fear as they approached the edge of the pad. Instinctively, she tried to open the door only to discover that it is locked. Everyone checked their doors to confirm they are locked as well. Her teammate's eyes were dilated in terror. Just before they drove off the pad, Hill pressed a button at the center of the driving wheel.

They heard machinery as the vehicle begin to transform. The wheels retracted and became replaced by turbines. Immediately, the turbines ignited with a white glow, levitating the car and slowing its descent to a stop.

"This right here is a S.W.O.R.D. issued Flying Car," Hill explains as she drives the vehicle through the air. "Unlike the S.H.I.E.L.D standard issue, these are designed to break orbit and leave the planet. They'll be our ride to the Peak."

"Okay, I'll admit. That was awesome!" Yang exclaimed with a giddy look on her face. "I want to do that again."

"Can't you just tell us instead of almost getting us killed?" Weiss yelled. Behind them is Agent Coulson in his Flying SUV. Team RWBY had a distinct feeling that their reactions are like theirs.

"I did…but then it occurred to me that this would serve as motivation for all of you to remember to read the freaking manual," Hill stressed the last part. "Otherwise, you would recognize a vehicle when you see one. It's equipped with repulsor engines powerful enough to take us off the planet."

"Repulsor engines?" Ruby asked. "You mean Tony helped design this?"

"Yes. And before you ask the obvious question, I can assure you that Stark made the terms and conditions clear on the contract," Hill said with an exasperated sigh. "Anyway, this car is designed to function like a smaller space shuttle. The doors are properly sealed to ensure that there is no leak. There are also life support systems that will ensure a steady supply of recycled oxygen. Not to mention the energy shield in case we get fired upon by hostile aircraft…and the weapon systems to return fire."

"Ooh! What kind of weapons?" Ruby asked with starry eyes.

"You will see Ms. Rose. They'll cover it at the Peak as part of your training. Hang on, this is going to be a bumpy ride."

With that, Hill pressed down on the accelerator. There was a heavy pause before the car sped up and ascended at the same time. It was faster than anything they've experienced so far. They are thrown back into their seats, and they clutched their seatbelts as tightly as they could. The Remnantian teens could feel their Aura straining as the force of multiple Gs slammed into their bodies. Faces turning red from the strain. Only Hill was relaxed, telling them that she had done this countless times before.

Then, as the car continued its climb through the atmosphere, the transformed vehicle began to rock. Looking out the windows, the city of New York is becoming smaller by the second as they left the lower atmosphere behind. The sky began to darken as well. The turbulence only lasted a few minutes, but it gradually came to a stop. Once it did, the car became eerily calm. The girls, aside from Hill, took several deep breaths to calm themselves.

"Gods…" Blake muttered under her breath as she breathed heavily.

"Never mind that! Look out the window!" Ruby called out in excitement. Everyone pressed their faces against the cold glass and gazed out with awestruck wonder.

As they gazed out of the window of their spacecraft, they are struck by the breathtaking beauty of the Earth below. The vibrant blue oceans contrast with the lush green forests and the barren deserts, creating a patchwork of color that is both stunning and humbling. The curvature of the planet is visible, reminding them of the sheer size and scale of this world. From up here, they feel a sense of unity with all of humanity, as borders and divisions disappear, and they are all simply inhabitants of this shared planet. It is a sight that fills them with wonder and awe and felt grateful for the opportunity to witness it firsthand.

"It's beautiful…" Weiss breathed out.

"I know. The view is worth leaving the atmosphere and going back down," Hill said. "You can pick your jaws off the floor now. We're approaching our destination. You may have a few minutes of enjoying your first experience with zero gravity."

She smugly pointed to their hair, which like hers is standing on end. The force of gravity had completely vanished. They felt their arms drift upward when they unclenched them. It was a humorous sight as they unfastened their seatbelts to feel the effects of zero-g. Everything they watched on tv, or in movies is nothing compared to this experience. They let themselves enjoy it for a moment before they floated back to their seats and strapped themselves in. By the time the last belt clicked, they have reached their destination.

As they approached the Peak, they couldn't help but marvel at its striking resemblance to the namesake of the organization it housed. The triangular shape of the interconnected modules evoked the shape of a blade, while the central hub and various protrusions suggested the hilt and guard of a sword. The metallic exterior gleamed in the light of nearby stars, and the S.W.O.R.D. logo was emblazoned prominently on its surface. As they drew closer, they noticed the various docking bays, observation decks, and weapons systems that dotted the station's surface, each contributing to its impressive arsenal and readiness for action. The advanced thrusters allowed the station to move with precision and agility, while the various defensive capabilities that bristled from its surface conveyed a sense of strength and readiness for any threat. The design of the Peak was not only impressive from a technological standpoint, but it also served as a powerful symbol of the organization's purpose and mission.

Their car began to approach the nearest docking bay. The doors began opening to admit them. As they entered, they felt gravity reassert itself. There is a dull thud as the car lands and returned to its default state, then they heard a faint rumble as the docking bay began to be filled with oxygen. Only then did they hear a wailing siren, which soon went away as the bay is properly pressurized.

"Alright. Everyone out. Don't forget your bags," Hill announced as she unlocks the doors. She opens the driver's side and exits. Team RWBY did the same. Behind their SUV, Coulson and team JNPR are doing the same. A few people wearing green uniforms, technicians they assumed, came rushing over to conduct some maintenance on their vehicles. They left them behind to walk through the door they walked out of. Once inside, they are greeted by a pair of S.W.O.R.D. security guards. After Hill and Coulson showed their credentials, they are escorted to an elevator. When they stepped inside it, they ascended higher into the Peak.

When they arrived at the central hub, it is bustling with activity. Operators commandeered terminals, regularly reporting information obtained. Looking out the windows is a view of Earth and the endless expanse of space. They didn't focus on that as they followed Maria and Coulson. At the front is a woman with green hair tied into a bun speaking to another S.W.O.R.D. agent. Like everyone they saw, she is dressed in a form-fitting S.W.O.R.D uniform. When she saw them at the corner of her eye, she dismissed the Agent and approached them. Behind her green sunglasses, her eyes study them with a gaze.

"Greetings. You must be Team RWBY and Team JNPR. I have no doubt Deputy Director Hill has informed you of my identity, but I will introduce myself. I am Director Abigail Brand, head of the Sentient World Observation and Response Division—S.W.O.R.D. for short. Looking forward to getting to know you."

---

Gormánudr, 6 Days After the Seal of Bor's Sons Broke

Asgard, Royal Palace of Valaskjalf

Inside the Royal Archives of Asgard, Jane Foster sat at a table with a stack of books in front of her. It is a circular room with shelves of books lined up against the wall. At the center is a tree with eight branches extending. Each branch contained a swirling galaxy at the tip. At the top is a golden swirling. These represent the nine realms of the Yggdrasil and the tree itself. But given that Asgard is at the top, the tree could also be the top of the actual Yggdrasil itself.

After three days of fighting to defend the realms, she and Thor have been granted a brief respite. The attacks have been growing more frequent. Even with their godly stamina, it is exhausting. Hopefully, she could find answers to this crisis by doing what she does best—research. Long before she became the Mighty Thor, she was Jane Foster, a woman of science. She approached this problem using the scientific method.

Thor had gone to his father to once again plead for his permission to pursue his brother, Loki. For some reason, he kept refusing his requests much to Thor's agitation. Hopefully, it would be different this time. She is now browsing through the Book of Yggdrasil, an ancient grimoire detailing much of the history of the Nine Realms. She turned to the section of Muspelheim, the Realm of Fire and home to the Fire Demons plaguing the realms. With enough data, she might find a way to end this crisis.

"My, you seem to be reading a lot, haven't you?"

Jane is broken out at the sound of a woman's voice. When she looked up, her eyes became wide as dinner plates. Standing there is a strikingly beautiful woman, with long golden hair that cascades in soft waves around her face. She has a regal bearing, standing tall and proud, with an air of confidence and authority. Her features are delicate and refined, with high cheekbones and a sharp jawline. Her eyes are a piercing blue, and they seem to hold a deep well of wisdom and understanding. Her attire is a voluminous gown of richly colored fabric, with intricate embroidery and delicate beading.

"Queen Frigga…" Jane breathed as she recognizes the Queen of Asgard. Husband of the Allfather and mother of Thor. She stood up and hastily said, "Forgive me! I didn't realize…I was buried in my research…"

"It's alright my dear," Frigga dismisses with a wave of her hand and a slight laugh. "You remind me of myself when I first studied magic. I would stick my nose in a book and by the time I was done, it had already been nightfall. And you don't need to address me formally. It's just the two of us here."

"With all due respect, your majesty. Back on Midgard…Earth, we address people of authority with respect," Jane said respectfully. "If I'm talking to the President, I would address them as Mr. or Madam President. Likewise, if I'm talking to you, I need to address you as your majesty."

"Oh, very well," Frigga rolls her eyes in resignation. Her eyes focused on the books and asked, "May I ask what you are doing?"

"I'm trying to find something that will help with the Fire Demon attacks, your majesty," Jane answered.

"Not a bad plan. Sometimes the answers to the present lie in the past," Frigga says as she takes a seat next to her. "Do you mind if I join in? I'd like to see if I can offer any assistance."

"Sure…I mean, I would be honored your majesty," Jane said after correcting herself.

Frigga took a book from the pile, opened it, and began reading. Jane turned the page of the one in her hand. She came across an intricately made illustration that took two full pages to portray. On the left page the armies of Asgard, led by the Allfather Odin, as a formidable force to be reckoned with. The soldiers are clad in shining armor, wielding weapons of incredible power and skill. The Einherjar, the elite guard of Asgard, stand tall and proud, their faces set in grim determination as they prepare for battle. The Valkyries, fierce and beautiful, ride winged horses into the fray, wielding spears and swords with deadly skill. Odin himself, towering over his soldiers, wields the mighty spear Gungnir and commands the respect and loyalty of all who fight under his banner.

On the other page, the armies of Muspelheim, led by the fire giant Surtur, are a terrifying sight to behold. The soldiers are clad in charred armor, their skin blackened by the flames that surround them. The demonic creatures of Muspelheim, summoned by Surtur, are depicted as snarling and howling as they advance toward the Asgardian lines. Surtur himself, a towering inferno of flame and fury, strides forward at the head of his army, his eyes glowing with fierce unquenchable rage. The Twilight Sword is held aloft, ready to strike down any who would stand in his way. The air itself seems to tremble with the heat and power of the Muspelheim forces, as they prepare to clash with the defenders of Asgard.

"I've heard about how you assisted my son back in Nidavellir,' Frigga suddenly broke out her thoughts. "Quite fiercely I might add. He told me you single-handedly took down a fire dragon all by yourself. I also heard you are calling yourself Thor."

"The Mighty Thor, your majesty," Jane corrected with a hint of pink on her cheeks. "I'm sure that Thor exaggerated the details. I mean, it just came to me from the inscription on Mjolnir. Thunderstrike is my Mjolnir to Thor's, so I settled on that."

"Just fair warning, you'll be reminding people of a very interesting story with my son. Usually, whenever someone reminds him, he throws a fit. Now he would laugh it off," Frigga said with a light laugh with Jane joining in. "I also heard about the deaths of Eitri's people. It saddens me that they many are wounded or dead because of the Fire Demons. And more because my husband wanted them to protect another one of his precious secrets. Reminds me of his time searching for a way to avert Ragnarök."

"The Twilight Sword," Jane said, feeling her finger on the drawing of the weapon of Surtur. "I know that it was shattered, but what do you know about the Twilight Sword? I know what it says in the book, but from my experience, anyone could write a book and put whatever they want in it."

"Aye, that is true," Frigga agreed. "I'm sure that you already know, but the sword is the weapon of Surtur. It serves as a focus for him to channel his powers. When bonded with the source of his power, the Eternal Flame, its powers further increase to levels beyond imagination. It is the very blade he planned to plunge into Asgard when Ragnarök comes. It should've been known as the Sword of Doom because of that purpose."

"But the weapon is in pieces. It won't be of any use unless it's welded back together," Jane surmised until realization hit her. "Which means Skurge wouldn't have taken it unless there is a way to reforge it. Do you know your majesty?"

"If one were to go about reforging this weapon, they will need the life force of an exploding galaxy. The planets caught up in such an act would power the sword," Frigga answered gravely. "It's how Surtur forged that Hel damned weapon in the first place. It's also what started the war between Asgard and Muspelheim. We wanted to ensure that no other galaxies would die to create another weapon like the Twilight Sword. Or let alone give Surtur a chance to use it. After the war, we ensured that knowledge of how the sword was forged stays buried. Even Eitri vowed to take the secret to the grave. Odin and his brothers sealed Muspelheim to prevent them from wreaking havoc across the Nine Realms."

Frigga stopped talking to let Jane digest this. The wielder of Thunderstrike is horrified at the process. Millions of lives snuffed out just to create a weapon of mass destruction. It made her glad that the sword was broken into pieces. She is no stranger to such weapons. Humanity has made them in the past to escalate or prevent wars. The Atomic Bomb is such an example. This development leads to nukes and by extension the prevention of World War iii. Suddenly, it occurred to her.

"Should you be telling me this?"

"Would you be willing to forge a weapon this way?" Frigga asked pointedly. Jane shook her head without an ounce of hesitation. "That's how I know you'll keep this to yourself."

"Believe me, I wouldn't touch that with a fifty-foot hammer," Jane declared. "It doesn't narrow it down, but it's a good clue as any. If anyone would be attempting to reforge the blade, we need to be on the lookout for a galaxy. I should ask Heimdall to do so."

"I believe, with his hearing, Heimdall is well aware and is keeping a lookout," Frigga said, glancing over her shoulder as if she could see the guardian of the Bifrost. "But that doesn't mean we should put everything on his shoulders. I believe I know one person capable of pulling it off while commanding the Fire Demons."

Frigga held up her book to show her an illustration. Displayed in an illustration is a woman dressed in fiery red and charcoal black armor. Horns protruded from her head. Eyes gave off a yellow glow, hot like embers.

"The Demon Queen," Frigga began. "Surtur's most prized and powerful minon."

"Like a queen piece in a chess game," Jane said.

"I've heard of that game, but that's a very good comparison. The Demon Queen is a female selected by Surtur to command his armies. In return, he bestows upon her unimaginable power. When Odin and I fought against her, she proved to be a match for the Allfather alone. We were barely able to defeat her. As it is within his power, Surtur is the only one who decides the Demon Queen."

"Thor once told me that his father killed Surtur," Jane pointed out. Frigga gave Jane a pointed look.

"He probably didn't mention his last words as Odin slew him. He declared that he cannot die. Not until he fulfills his destiny and lays waste to everything," Frigga said firmly. She took a few seconds to let it sink in before continuing, "You would be surprised at how much the belief in destiny pays off. Especially when it wants to make whatever future it decided a reality. So that leaves two hypotheses as you put it. Either the Demon Queen we've fought back then somehow survived…or a new one has been selected by the Fire Giant himself who somehow survived. Whatever the case, we didn't do a good job given that Fire Demons are running free."

Jane couldn't help but agree with her on that statement. For someone as evil as Surtur and his minions, it would be wise to ensure that they are dead.

"Just in case the previous one is deceased, I may have a theory on who the next Demon Queen may be," Jane said, drawing her attention. "Do you know Amora?"

"The Enchantress?" Frigga spat out with venom. Jane flinched from the look on her face. She remembered that Amora is a seductress. A seductress with a bad reputation for stealing power and offing the men who held it last. Thor had been one of her would-be victims. It shouldn't surprise her that Thor's mom would know the woman who tried to seduce her son and likely kill him just to take the throne of Asgard. Any parent worth their salt would feel the same thing. A part of her is glad that it didn't work out between them. A tramp like her doesn't deserve Thor.

"A while back, Loki launched an attack on four kids that Thor and the others were taking care of," Jane said. At the mention of his brother, Frigga's face softened with a mixture of horror. She steeled herself as Jane continued, "Yeah, he used a guy named Simon to attack him. He was enchanted by Amora and handed over to him. His testimony, while foggy it may be, says the exchange occurred in a place filled with fire and ash. And this happened nearly three hours after the seal broke and Fire Demons begin swarming. Coincidence?"

"That is a very good observation," Frigga said. "While I have doubts about such, this Simon could very well have described the environment of Muspelheim. This puts him at the scene where the Seal Broke. Given the magical knowledge at her disposal, she could've…no, she must be the one to have broken the seal if not helped Loki. If someone like Amora is the new Demon Queen…"

The queen of Asgard let that sentence trail off. Even Jane found it disturbing to think about. She didn't have to as suddenly, the doors of the library slammed open. In stormed in Thor, who had a look of frustration on his face with Mjolnir in hand. He is followed closely by the Warriors Three, who looked to be trying to calm him down.

"Thor, we know that you're upset…" Hogun was saying to no avail.

"I know a good feast would cheer you up," Volstagg said offering while he chews at a massive chicken leg.

"That' works for you, Volstagg," Fandral points out with a scowl. It faded as he tried to console his friend, "Look, at least he didn't refuse you again. That's got a mean the Allfather is taking this seriously."

"Yes…because he's sending SOMEONE ELSE!" Thor yelled as he slammed his fist on a nearby table. The legs crumbled under the force of the blow and collapsed.

"THOR ODINSON!" Frigga reprimanded harshly. Thor flinched when he heard his mother's voice and looked at her as if realizing that she was there. The Warriors three straightened themselves when they realized they were in the presence of the queen of Asgard. Volstagg scarfed down the last bits of the chicken leg and tosses the bone behind him. Fandral and Hogun adopted a formal bow which Volstagg hastily followed. Thor had an apologetic look on his face at the destroyed table.

"Forgive me, Mother…"

"Lady Frigga," Hogun spoke with reverence. "Forgive us. We didn't realize that you were present."

"And to you Lady Jane," Fandral addressed with a bow. "As usual, your beauty is to behold. Thor has regaled us with valiant tales of your battle against the Fire Demons."

"Good to see you too, Fandral the Dashing and greatest swordsman in Asgard," Jane greeted with an amused smirk. She is more than aware that he's a womanizer. It's to be expected with his looks. If given the chance, he might've kissed her hand. But she suspected he held himself back because Thor is in the same room. Which is good because she's not interested in him. Speaking of which, she got up from her seat and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"So…your Father…"

"He still won't let me go after Loki," Thor answered with a hand on his head. "Why won't my father understand? My attention is much better focused on finding Loki and stopping whatever he's got scheming."

"I'm sure your father has his reasons, Thor," Frigga said. "Even if I don't always agree with him, there's a method to his madness. Besides, if you know your brother, then you know that he wins just by messing with your head. Which means you're more than likely to fall into another trick of his. Just like you did when he manipulated you into nearly starting a war between Asgard and Jotunheim."

"That was my folly, and I cry your mercy mother," Thor sighed with regret. Jane had a feeling that he knew if he didn't, then he wouldn't have been banished to Earth and become a new person. That would also mean she would never have met him.

"Don't forget that time where he turned my cask of ale into a snake," Volstagg added with a shudder.

"And his illusions. Don't forget that's his favorite trick," Hogun said. "Remember back in Vanaheim when he made that troll fall off a cliff because it thought that an illusion was him?"

"Ha! You must've been drunk after the victory feast to remember it was a horde of trolls that followed the first. The point stands Thor…I mean, Prince Thor." Fandral corrected himself as the Queen of Asgard is in the room. "We need to keep a clear head, otherwise Loki will be playing us like fools. AGAIN. I still remember that time when he took away my dashing good looks and made the ladies run away."

"How could we forget a face like that, Fandral?" Thor asked with a light laugh. His laughter is infectious as everyone joined in laughing at his expense. Volstagg's is the loudest as he clutches his enormous belly. Even Hogun cracked a chuckle at the memory. Fandral merely grumbled at his past misfortune. Even Frigga and Jane cracked a smirk. Fandral grumbled under all the mockery that he is getting, but they knew he didn't hold it against them.

"Well has anyone forgotten how Loki cut Sif's hair and replaced it with dwarven enchanted black hair?" Fandral asked. Immediately, the mood became down once more at the mention of their friend. Sif had been sent to investigate the circumstances behind the broken seal. Ever since she departed, nobody has seen her. Heimdall had sent her to the realm of fire, and she never called for the Bifrost ever since.

"Has there been a further report about Sif's whereabouts?"

"Not since the Allfather sent her to Muspelheim," Hogun said with a grimace befitting his title. "Heimdall would've said something if that changed. If he can't see her, something must be blocking his sight."

"I'll have a word with Brunnhilde. She and the Valkyrior should be returning from Alfheim," Frigga declared.

"The Valkyrior?" Jane asked, her mind going back to her knowledge of Norse Mythology. "Aren't they the female warriors who guide worthy souls to Valhalla?"

"Yeah, they used to do that. I mean they still do, just not on Midgard," Thor said, causing Jane to raise an eyebrow in curiosity. "But they also serve as my father's special force. Elite warriors were sworn to defend the throne. They undertake any task given by the Allfather. Whatever happened in Alfheim must've been enough to warrant their attention."

"Indeed. They were called because a Fire Dragon appeared," Frigga answered. "It suddenly appeared and began burning down the Elves' forests. They were also ordered to be on the lookout for Loki. I don't want to think of it, but I wouldn't put it past Loki to summon a Fire Dragon as a prank."

"So, they're sent after Loki unlike me," Thor grumbled. "I'm sorry everyone, but I can't just let this go. I feel the attacks are distractions. Something to keep us occupied while he concocts whatever scheme he's setting up. Every moment I…we play his game, he's winning. I should know because Loki is my brother."

"He's my brother too."

All eyes turned to see another man enter the archives. He is a powerful and regal figure, standing tall and muscular with silvery white hair and bright blue eyes. He is wearing purple and gold armor, with intricately detailed designs and symbols decorating his breastplate, gauntlets, and greaves. His armor is accompanied by a flowing blue fur-lined cape, which would make him stand out even more among the crowd. His helmet, adorned with two long and curved silver horns, adds to his regal and imposing presence. Sheathed at his hip is his sword, Svraden.

Everyone in the room, except for one, would recognize one of its finest and bravest warriors. Balder Odinson. The God of Light. Balder embodies the noble virtues of the Asgardian pantheon, including bravery, honor, and justice, and is deeply respected and admired by his fellow gods.

"By the Allfather! If it isn't the bravest warrior in all Asgard?" Thor greeted his brother with a warm smile as he approached him. "What are you doing here?"

"I had just returned from wrangling with the trolls in Vanaheim," Balder said as he returned the smile. "The Fire Demon attacks have emboldened them to launch raids against Vanir villages. The Allfather saw fit to send me to quell their uprising."

"I can imagine their surprise when they realize who they were up against," Fandral said with a grin. "Did they figure it out when their weapons broke upon your skin?"

"Indeed, they did," Balder nodded. He then noticed the unfamiliar face in the room, "You must be Jane Foster. Thor has told me much about you. Especially how you are using my brother's name. A little bird told me that rumor is going around the nine realms that the bride of Thrym was back. Made me fear that Mjolnir got stolen again."

"You can say that again. I still remember the look on his face when he saw that he was about to me. The one guy who will bring the hammer down on him for stealing Mjolnir," Thor barked out, throwing his head back in laughter. Everyone joined in on the merry moment.

"I'm familiar with the tale. I also call myself the Mighty Thor just in case the rumors forgot to mention. It felt like the appropriate name for me" Jane points out while Balder and Thor barked out a laugh. "Forgive me for asking, but aren't you that guy who can't be harmed by anything except mistletoe?"

"I see Midgard hasn't forgotten that tidbit," Balder confirmed. "But yes, it is I. A while back, I was fighting against Storm Giants when I left to put a bird who had fallen from its nest back with its mother."

"Wait…you stopped to help a baby bird. In the middle of a fight?"

"Balder always had a thing for animals," Volstagg adds. "There were a few meals that I missed because he wouldn't let the hunters kill the swine or stag."

"There are other choices of food out there," Baldur said. "Anyway, Father didn't take it well with my decision to abandon the fight. For my crime of desertion, he sentenced me to death."

"He ordered his son to death?" Jane asked in shock and disbelief. She looked at Thor, who gave a subtle grim nod.

"Aye. But regardless of my intentions that day, I abandoned the fight and left my fellow warriors to fend for themselves. So, I stood and accepted my punishment without fear. Before the arrows and lances could reach me, they were stopped by an eagle and a plant. Seeing as how I didn't flinch Father became content to know that I'm the bravest in all Asgard and had Mother cast spells that would protect me from all threats physical and magical. But as you know, not all of them."

"Mistletoe. The only thing unimportant enough to be overlooked is to not swear an oath," Jane surmised. "But wait…shouldn't you be dead?"

"Yes. While I was content with this gift, it came with a few drawbacks. Namely, the fact that my fellow Asgardians thought it would be good sport to throw all manner of objects at me and see them bounce off. Swords, axes, shields, and even tables were not spared. It even continued in unappropriated times such as battle and training. One time, they emptied the arsenal of Asgard in a single day. Believe me, that irresponsibility brought me irritation to no end."

"Come on, you have to admit it was fun," Thor said, getting a deadpan glare from Balder.

"I would love to see you get hit by Mjolnir and think it's fun," Balder stated. "Anyway, no matter what I said, the game kept going. It was getting unsafe for anyone around me. Especially when weapons are flying around. At that point, I considered death worth the final test of my bravery. So, I asked Loki for help. He found out about the mistletoe and crafted an arrow out of it. Called it the Arrow of Hoder because…well, I'm sure you can figure out the rest as Midgard recorded the incident in their mythologies."

"That was a very foolish thing to do!" Frigga scolded. "You are fortunate that your father prevented you from dying. Loki faced severe punishment for the stunt he pulled."

"I know Mother, and I'm sorry," Balder said apologetically. "But after that, nobody threw anything at me again. Even the dwarves are relieved that their weapons wouldn't be used so frivolously. Aside from the time I spent in Hel, with my hair turning white as a testament, I believe it was worth it."

"After you briefly forswore the warrior path and at until you were as large as Volstagg," Hogun said. "He was crying a storm when he wasn't getting food."

"I was not!" Volstagg protested.

"Come to think of it, there was one other good thing that came out of it," Fandral said. "When the realm was endangered from a Dark Elf invasion, Balder undertook an intense training regimen to get back into shape. It was so effective that the Allfather used that for Einherjar's daily training. Some of them were crying for mercy by the time they were done. I partake in it myself, and it improved my looks."

Fandral did several poses to showcase his dashing figure. Jane could only shake her head in amusement. It's not a secret that many fear death. But many dare to overcome that fear.

But her mind drifted back to Norse Mythology. Balder had a much more important role than he made it out to be. Namely, the fact that his death is the signal for the beginning of Ragnarök. She knew that had to be the real reason Odin had made him invulnerable.

"I'm sorry to cut this reunion short, but I need to get going," Balder said while adopting a serious look. "I must make haste to Midgard to begin my hunt for Loki."

"Wait…he's sending YOU after Loki?" Thor asked incredulously. "Of all the warriors he could've picked, he chose you! Did you forget that he knows your weakness? Much less how to make another Arrow of Hoder if he doesn't have the original?"

"Yes, brother. I'll never forget that day," Balder answered. "I know you're frustrated, brother. But let me clarify any misunderstanding you may have. I volunteered to go after him."

"Volunteered?"

"Aye," Balder nodded. "You see, I've been listening to your requests to Odin to go out and hunt for Loki. Every time he refused, you got frustrated. Something that we both know Loki wants so that you can be easily manipulated. I realized that we have been wasting our efforts dancing to our brother's tune. Instead of chasing him, I say that we draw him out of wherever he's hiding and out into the open. And what better bait than myself?"

"Using yourself as bait? That's mighty ambitious of you," Jane said. "But isn't that also dangerous? Loki almost killed you once, remember?"

"We can't always run from death out of fear," Balder said. "Besides, whatever Loki's planning, he knows that I would be a hindrance to it. I doubt he would pass off a chance to eliminate one of Asgard's greatest warriors to ensure that his plans go off without a hitch. I am more than willing to take the risk if it means capturing him and putting an end to whatever madness he has planned."

"No!" Frigga declared, standing up from her seat. "I almost lost you once and I don't want to go through it again! I forbid it!"

"Even you cannot go against the Allfather mother," Balder said firmly. "As I said, I'm doing this of my own will. Whether someone tries to stop me, I will see it through to the end. For Asgard and the Nine Realms."

Balder let the silence hang in the air, giving anyone the chance to object to this plan. However, none of them spoke up. It was clear that Balder wasn't going to back down from this. No matter what they say. Granted, they could try to stop him with force. But given that he's immune to harm both physical and magical, it's unlikely they would succeed in subduing him. Besides, as a warrior of Asgard, one walks the path of death.

But they fear that Balder is more than likely to meet his death. Back then, Loki was more than willing to kill him with that prank of his. If he dies, that means that Ragnarök was sure to follow. Jane didn't put much faith that the end of the world would happen just because of one person's death. But she has seen some aspects of Norse Mythology proven to be true. She had to wonder how Balder's death would trigger the apocalypse.

Jane didn't know why, but she knew that Ragnarök is the name of the game. The Twilight Sword. Balder's death. Both have a connection to the Twilight of the Gods. It's all too much to be considered a coincidence. That alone filled her with a sense of trepidation. She hoped that she was wrong.

"I wish you good fortune in your quest brother," Thor said as he puts a hand on his shoulder. "I entrust the safety of Midgard to you while I am busy fighting across the Realms."

"I won't let your trust be misplaced brother," Balder said as he returns the gesture. He then pulled Thor close in what seemed to be a hug. But Balder whispered into Thor's ear.

"The moment I confront Loki, I'll request Heimdall to send word to you. If Odin hasn't assigned you another task, then come to my aid as quick as the thunder you wield. But if he does, finish it just as fast and come before he gives you another."

Thor's eyes widened at his brother's words and the opportunity they present. Balder is giving him a chance to pursue Loki with him. Now that he thought about it, his father never ordered him to NOT pursue Loki. Only that he won't send him after his brother. He can't be mad if he took a leaf from Loki's book and exploit this 'Loophole' as the mortals call it. It wasn't the first time he defied his father's orders.

Not only that, but he can also ensure that his brother doesn't die. He shared his mother's pain regarding that day. They didn't almost lose another warrior, but a son and brother. Thus, he can have the chance to prevent Ragnarök from being set in motion. The prince of thunder gave his brother a grateful conspiratorial smile.

"Farewell everyone," Balder said. "I can make no promise, but I will do my best to return alive."

With that, he turned on his heel and strode out of the archives. Everyone watched him as he walked fearlessly befitting his epitaph. Despite their admiration and his reassurances, it did little to ease their fear.

Nor the feeling that this would be the last time they see him.

"Look out for your brother. Alright," Frigga finally said. Thor turned to his mother, who is looking at him with a motherly look. There is no doubt that she knew what Balder whispered to Thor.

"I will mother," Thor promised. At that moment, there came a loud beeping sound.

"What the Hel is that noise?" Fandral asked, looking around with the other warriors. Thor's face became white as if something dawned on him.

"Odin's Beard! I nearly forgot about the meeting," Thor said as he took out his Avengers Identicard from his pocket. "Pardon me everyone, but I need to take this to my quarters. It shouldn't be long. If anything, important happens, let me know."

---

Knowhere, Galactic Rim

Floating on the far edge of the universe is the severed head of the Celestial. No one knew when it had happened. Some speculate that the head's owner was slain at the birth of the universe. Others didn't care as hundreds of years ago it became the center of valuable bone, brain tissue, and spinal fluid mining operations for the black market. Eventually, the hollowed-out head became a hub for interstellar travelers and a haven for outlaws and criminals. With various establishments such as bars, shops, and gambling dens, it became a vital center of commerce.

It is also the home base to a team of cosmic heroes known as the Guardians of the Galaxy. A group of former outlaws who have gathered and made it their mission to protect the galaxy from all threats. Their latest successful mission has them foil the invasion of Puckworld. An icy planet that got its namesake from the asteroids that took the shape of hockey pucks. The inhabitants are a race of anthropomorphic ducks who play a sport found on Earth.

Their leader grew excited by the fact their culture is centered around the sport. At the end of the invasion, they took up an offer to introduce the game to the residents of Knowhere. After they beat their ancestral enemies, the Saurians were led by the last overlord, Dragaunus.

Of course, the first playoff didn't go so well.

"Okay…this is NOT how you play hockey!"

That shout came from the leader of the Guardians, a tall and lean short blond-haired man named Peter Quill. Otherwise known as Star-Lord as it says on the back of his red leather jacket. He hovered over the center of the pitch with his jet boots and his arms crossed over his chest. A while back, he helped convert an unused space of Knowhere into a hockey pitch with the use of his element guns by freezing the ground with ice. He had an unhappy look on his face as he glared at his teammates who wore hockey pads, helmets, and skates.

"First off Gamora! The hockey stick is meant to hit the puck, or the opposition stick! Nothing else!" Peter scolded a Zen-Whoberi woman with long black hair and wearing a sleek black body suit. "You cannot use it to inflict bodily harm to the opposition whatsoever!"

"I was wondering why the stick looks like this," Gamora mutters as she holds her hockey stick up. Peter turned his attention to a tall, muscular Katathian man with green skin and red tattoos on his body. Despite the temperature, he only elected to wear pants.

"Drax! When you are checking the offensive line, you hamper them using your own body or stick. Not scope them out while playing!"

"I don't recall using a scope in this game," Drax said dubiously.

"It's a metaphor for examining people you idiot!" A small anthropomorphic raccoon wearing an orange jumpsuit called out. He stood on the shoulder of a tall Flora Colossus. He looked at the opposing team with a forced grin. "Forgive this guy. His people are literal. Metaphors fly over his head."

"Nothing flies over my head, Rocket. My reflexes are too fast," Drax countered. Rocket just shrugs his shoulder sheepishly as if Drax had proven his point.

"Don't think you are innocent in all this!" Peter pointed at Rocket, specifically at the weapon he was holding. "You cannot bring a puck blaster here! It's a clear violation of the rules! And don't get me started on that Puck Turret you've got set up! Your supposed to get the puck into the goal. Not blast the other players! Oh yeah, and did I forget to mention there's only supposed to be SIX players per team on the ice?"

"Hey, I didn't hear about any rules saying you cannot bring one," Rocket defended, spreading his arms. "Groot provides the perfect vantage point, and I wasn't going to pass it off. Besides, what's the point of wearing body armor if you aren't begging to be blasted?"

"I am Groot," the flora colossus said in a tone of disproval. Rocket met his look with a glare.

"Don't look at me like that! They didn't have skates that would fit me. And did you see the big duck over there? He would've flattened me!"

"You are missing the point of this discussion! Besides that, should've been clear when I had everyone leave their weapons at the bench!" Peter argued before focusing on the tree-like being, his voice becoming calm. "Groot…you're good. Good job on being the goalie. Honestly, you are the only guy I'm not mad at right now."

"I am Groot," replied Groot with a smile. Peter smiled back in return. He rounded on the pink-skinned Lamentian with insect-like antennae dressed in green whose green eyes look distant.

"Mantis, I need you at the moment here," Peter said, catching her attention. "We went over the rules! You can't use your powers to make the opposition fall asleep."

"Don't get huffy with me Sun-Lord. You should've made it clear on the rules of hokey," Mantis said with her hips. Peter briefly wondered what she was talking about. But given that she's seeing multiple timelines at once, she's prone to drifting into tangents when speaking with anyone. Sometimes that includes addressing them with different names.

"Quasar, it's the same with Gamora. You can't use your sword in the game" Peter said to a woman with short white hair and with a glowing yellow scar running down her right eye. In her hand she held a glowing golden hockey stick "But I'm glad that you chose to stick with the hockey stick construct. Keep in mind that it's the goalie's job to protect the goal. You cannot put a barrier around it to prevent the other team from scoring."

"I cannot argue with that," Quasar said, taking in the criticism well. "I confess that I reacted on instinct. I will improve myself on the next face-off. Thank you, Peter."

"That's good to hear," Peter breathed. He heard a grunt from the last person he's yet to scold. A golden-skinned man with a glowing stone on his forehead.

"Something you want to add Adam?"

"Just that your frivolous fretting over a fair game is fruitless," Adam Warlock said, his golden eyes boring into Peter's. "There are many roads that are neither right nor wrong that lead to victory. Yet despite our so-called malicious misconduct, these Mighty Ducks were able to defeat us with sufficient skill that should receive proper praise."

"Adam Warlocks not wrong, Star-Lord," Wildwing Flashblade, the leader and goalie of the opposing team, the Mighty Ducks, pointed out. He is a tall broad-shouldered duck wearing a golden goalie mask. The guy can take anything thrown at him and keep standing. During the invasion, he served as the leader of the Mighty Ducks after the death of their Captain, Canard Thunderbeak. The Mask of Drake DuCaine, a bio-mechanical cybernetic interface device, proved essential in defeating the Saurians given its ability to penetrate the Saurians' dark magic and cloaking technology.

"Honestly, you Guardians gave us quite the workout for your first face-off."

Peter blinked. "We did?"

"Yeah, dude. Everybody gets it wrong the first time," said Nosedive Flashblade, a duck with long blonde hair and a bandage over his beak. "So maybe ease up the rage on your team a little? Not cool man. It's not like they were being serious about it like the Destroyers. They can't go through one game without cheating. But if anything, we're quite adaptable. We beat them with pure awesome skill!"

Nosedive is Wildwing's younger brother. He originally wasn't supposed to be part of the team, but Wildwing insisted him joining as part of the deal. Everybody wrote him off as a slacker at first, but the latter proved himself. On the ice, he serves as the left wing for the Mighty Ducks.

"Besides, it's not like you were anywhere on the ice. So, who gave you the right to judge?" Mallory McMallard, a red-haired female duck who served as the right wing on the ice, sharply asked with her hands on her hips. "Aside from being the referee."

Peter wanted to retort, but he couldn't because she was correct. The leader of the Guardians volunteered to serve as referee over the game. Granted he was kidnapped as a kid, so he missed a lot. But during his visits back to Earth, he caught up on what he missed and brought them back to Knowhere. The residents have taken a liking to Earth culture. Even though they weren't correct. While he never actually played hockey, he was ecstatic that one of his home worlds sports has built a culture around another planet.

"I for one believe the Destroyers would end up on the short end of a hockey stick if they tangled with you, ladies. Maybe we can get together and exchange tips?" Duke L'Orange, a gray duck with an eyepatch spoke suavely to Gamora and Quasar. Before the invasion, he was a notorious jewel thief. He put his skills to good use when he got recruited into the Mighty Ducks and serve as their center on the ice.

"She's the deadliest woman in the galaxy, Duke," Rocket warned. "In case you missed Mallory's ass-kicking during the game, there's a reason for that."

"Well see about that," Mallory grunted, cracking her knuckles. Among her teammates, she is well-versed in martial arts. The best among the remnants of Puckworld's military. It served her well during hockey matches. Only to meet her first loss at the hands of Gamora. Albeit unintentional.

"I side with Rocket on this matter," Drax said. "Asking to take on the deadliest woman in the galaxy is like asking to take on me, Drax the Destroyer. A challenge that will not be so easy to overcome."

"There is no challenge more challenging than the challenge to improve yourself," Check Hardwing, otherwise known by his friends as Grin, the biggest and most muscular duck said in a zen-like manner. According to Wildwing, he could bend steel just by looking at it. A student of the grand hockey master, Tai Quack Do, he serves as the right defense on the ice. Despite the play on words, Peter held his tongue as the left defense spoke up.

"Pardon me," Tanya Vanderflock, a bespectacled duck who served as the tech-genius and left defense on the ice, skated up to Quasar and asked with congested speech. "I've been meaning to ask, but is that quantum energy you're utilizing?"

"The Quantum Bands allow me to manipulate quantum energy however I desire," Quasar answered, holding up her hands to show her the golden bands on her wrists. To demonstrate, she creates a sword with a starburst hilt.

"Fascinating," Tanya breathed as she fiddles with the omni tool on her wrist. Meanwhile, Groot approached Wildwing with Groot on his shoulder. His eyes were focused on the mask of Drake DuCaine.

"Say, Wildwing. How much do you want for the…" Rocket began but Wildwing caught on to what he was asking and cut him off.

"Sorry, Rocket. But the mask stays with me," Wildwing said, raising a hand. "Canard entrusted it to me. It's also a planetary treasure. No amount of money is going to match the value."

"Oh, come on! I'm interested in how someone could've built a piece of tech in the dark ages," Rocket complained before getting a glint in his eye. "How about a game of hockey? The winner gets the mask!"

"No way. Besides, you still need to work on your skills."

"Then why don't you show us how it's done?"

"You think I want to teach the guy who wants to take the mask how to win at hockey?"

"I am Groot."

Peter watched as his Guardians interacted with the Mighty Ducks. Even if it got off to a rough start, hockey is about to be introduced to Knowhere soon. Suddenly, he heard a Russian-accented voice speak up.

"Pyotr Quill."

Recognition flashed on Peter's face. "Cosmo? Hey buddy! We were just—"

"I know Guardian of Galaxies is playing sports hockey," The head of Knowhere's security cut him off. "But Rychard Ryder of Nova Corp is here to request a conversation."

"Oh, Rich was calling?"

"Yes. He tried contacting you while playing the game. Sound urgent. The bad kind urgent."

"Well, that can't be good," Peter muttered as he hovered over to the side of the pitch and set his feet down. "Can you put him on the line? I mean…the telepathic line?"

"Ha! Cosmo not personal phone. Check communicator in the helmet," Cosmo said sarcastically. Peter rolled his eyes and pressed his finger to an earpiece behind his right ear. Almost immediately, in blue light, a silver helmet with red-tinted lenses materialized around his head. In his helmets HUD, he checked his recent calls and selected one labeled 'Richard Rider'. There were a few other calls from him that made Peter worry. A few seconds later, a new voice spoke up.

"Peter?"

"Hey, Rich! How's our favorite Nova-Prime?" Peter asked.

"I wish I could say about as much as you are playing hockey," Richard said. "Does your helmet have comms? I've been trying to contact you for hours."

"I was in the middle of acting as a referee," Peter said defensively. "Give us a break, we just saved a world of hockey-playing ducks from reptile overlords."

"Hockey playing ducks? Never mind. You know the Burning Galaxy?"

"Yeah?" Peter asked, his face becoming a frown at his tone.

"Well, it's living up to its namesake! Thousands of planets are burning out by the minute!" Richard yelled out, making Peter's eyes go wide. "The cause is still unknown. But our top priority is rescuing survivors. The Nova Corps are launching operations to escort refugee ships to the nearest jump points to safety. But I'm getting reports that they are being attacked by what the refugees are describing as 'fiery demons' and nearly cost us several ships. My hands are full, and the corps are spread too thin. Can I count on the Guardians to lend a hand?"

There is a grim atmosphere surrounding Peter as he took in the news. He felt like punching himself in the face for not picking up sooner. He looked to where his Guardians are still conversing with the Mighty Ducks. Mantis picked up on his emotions and tugged at Gamora's arm. Gamora looked at her before Mantis directed her attention at Peter. She must've figured out something was amiss because she called for the other Guardian's attention.

"As if you need to ask. We'll be right there," Peter declared resolutely before collapsing his helmet so that everyone can see his hardened face. "Get back to the Milano and suit up!"

---

Nidavellir, The Forge

Ever since the attack on the Forge, there hasn't been another Fire Demon attack. But King Eitri had doubled the security. Especially when they are trying to repair the forge. Dwarves scattered left and right, with their hammers banging on metal. Without the forge, they can't conduct weapon repairs or make new ones. Which is why the security had been doubled. No doubt thanks to Thor, they are assisted by Einherjar sent by Odin to provide military aid. They stood ready for the next Fire Demon attack that could happen at any time.

That did little to deter the God of Mischief. Loki strolled through the Forge. Nobody could see him as he was invisible. Granted, he could disguise himself as a dwarven guard or even an Einherjar. But that raises the risk of someone coming up to ask questions and blowing his cover. While he could lie and manipulate people into the situation, his current objective requires as fewer loose ends as possible. At least the ones that aren't meant to lead away from him.

The next phase of the plan required keeping his brother occupied with him. No doubt his brother is stewing about where he could be and planning. The very thought brought a smirk to his face. Once he catches word about an appearance, he will come running with Mjolnir in hand. He could hold his own against his brother in their previous duels, but he could tell he was holding back. Not to mention that his brother is all too familiar with his tricks. The god of mischief had to admit he'd been getting complacent with his usual mischief. If he didn't up his game, he'll get too predictable.

Which is why he coming to Nidavellir. To retrieve something that is not only essential to the plan but can even the odds in his favor. He arrived at his destination. A stone house that looked that weathered the previous attack. Opening the door, Loki stepped inside. Part of him wondered why an advanced race such as the dwarves would be content in living in such primitive housing. But he pushed that thought aside as he found his quarry.

Standing in the torchlit room is a dwarf dressed in a golden double-plated cuirass with an apron over it. Hanging off his belt are pouches and a hammer. There are signs of frost on his beard, but barely as they melt. In his hands, he held a rectangular case. The moment he entered the house, the dwarf jumped and glared in his direction.

"I know your there," he called out. "I can smell the magic of you."

"That's quite a handy skill to have," Loki comments as he made himself visible. "Hello…Brok was it?"

"Yeah, that's me," the dwarf greeted gruffly as he looks up at Loki. "Had to look over my shoulder a few times you see. King Eitri has been cracking down on security. I'm supposed to be in the forge working on new repairs."

Loki offered no word of sympathy. Of course, none of them would be willing to complete his request. So, he looked for the best smith in town and put them under mind control. It is when he came across the Huldra brothers that he found success. He considered using both, but Brok's brother proved to be an extreme germaphobe even under mind control. He wondered what happened to make him so fearful of germs to such an extent. So, he settled for Brok, who is more than willing to get his hands dirty.

"Do you have what I requested?" Loki asked with arms crossed, getting down to business. Brok nodded as he sets the case down, turning it so that the clasp faces Loki. The trickster god noticed that the fingertips of the dwarf are blue.

"Creating this wasn't so easy. Especially when infusing the fury of thousand-killing winters. I'd say frost trolls would've been easier. But it's mighty ambitious of you to insist on using that casket. Uru happened to be the excellent if not only choice."

When he opened the case, they suddenly felt a cold wind blow through. The torch was almost snuffed out, its flame becoming small. Hints of frost gathered on the stone floor and walls. Inside the case is an icy blue two-edged sword. Frost looked to be emanating from the blade, some having grown on the inside of the case. Loki reached out and grasped the hilt. From the contact, the skin on his hand turned blue-grey. It stung briefly but it faded as he grew used to it. No, he was always used to the cold. He held it high and gave it a few swings. It sang through the air and felt well-balanced and responsive.

"Impressive ain't it? I'd say that the sword recognizes you as its wielder. When I tried to grasp it, nearly froze my damn arm off. It doesn't have a name yet."

"Don't worry about that," Loki muttered. "But first…here's a reward…"

He pointed the sword at Brok. Its frosty aura grew intense as a concentrated beam of cold blasted out from the sword. Brok couldn't do anything as he was struck with it. It lasted a few moments, and when it ceased, the dwarven smith is frozen in ice. Call it evil, but it will help the blacksmith's case upon discovery. No sense in letting a talent such as Brok's go away because of him. That can be useful in the future.

With that out of the way, he turned his attention to his new weapon. Aside from the cold, he could feel new power surging into him. Perhaps this is how Thor felt when he grasped Mjolnir. While he favored daggers, he happens to be an accomplished swordsman. He is more than eager to polish his skills. Then he remembered that the dwarf hasn't given it a name. There was only one that came to mind.

"I shall call thee…Fimbulwinter," Loki declared, holding up his new weapon to the torchlight with a smile. "The great winter before twilight. Three successive winters, when the land is drowned in snow. Summer is no more, and wars are held. Once the winter ends, Ragnarök begins."

[~][~]

Greetings and Bienvenue readers

Once again, I apologize for taking so long to update. I've been preoccupied with life's daily needs and tasks. I also would once again like to apologize for deleting some of my fanfics without warning. It was foolish of me, but I don't regret my decision. I've read so many unfinished fanfics in the hope that they will be updated or at least given a proper end. I was crushed when that never happened to them. I didn't want to give you the same false hope. It's cruel and unnecessary. Unless something serious happened to the author, which I would understand. Otherwise, I stand by the rule of two. I'm only working on two fanfics at a time until one is finished.

I'll also announce that if you want to adopt any of the fics that I've deleted, you are free to do so. To anyone who has read 'Thieves in the Shadows', you will be pleased to know that it has been adopted by LazinessRules and rechristened 'The Phantom Justice'. If you want to read it to continuation, you know where to find it.

Anyway, everything is in place for the next phase of the Ragnarök arc. The team's RWBY and JNPR are now in space. Odin is sending Balder after Loki, and no doubt Thor and Jane will be following close behind. And to cap it off, Loki has acquired a new weapon. Honestly, I wanted to get creative after seeing the Norse Duology of the God of War series. Especially after the first clash between Kratos and GoW Thor. But I want to keep it separate from the Leviathan Axe. That weapon belongs to Kratos and him alone. The next chapters will be taking on different perspectives as the heroes handle the oncoming winter.

I also hope that you enjoyed the introduction of the Guardians of the Galaxy as much as I have. In the next chapters, they will be playing an important role. Not to mention that the Mighty Ducks are for one appearance only.

One thing that I should address is the issue of the X-Men as some of you are making it out to be. I will make it clear that they are part of this fanfic as much as they are part of the Marvel Universe. If they are excluded, why would I bother adding Mister Sinister and his Marauders into the story? You will have to wait and see what I do with them and what happened to them in the later arc. But I will give you a hint and nothing more or less. Remember the 2nd of November.

Another thing I should address is that I'm aware of the comic origin of Ricard Rider AKA Nova. As well as the fact that he's one of the founders of the New Warriors. That is not the case here. By that time, the Nova Corps was still running under Irani Rael. However, as you could guess, the Nova Corp became decimated during the Infinity War thanks to Thanos. There will be a later Fury File on that. After that, Nova began the process of rebuilding the Nova Corp. By this chapter, they've long since reestablished their presence in the galaxy, but they've yet to regain their former glory.

Thank you for reading. Let me know what you think. If any of you have a TV Tropes account, any assistance in updating the TV Tropes page would be greatly appreciated.

Hope you enjoy it and see you next time.