Meanwhile, In Jotunheim, Giant-Man and Wasp's battle with the Frost Giants raged on.
The pair battled with their giant forms, with Giant Man showing great skill and being able to fight the Frost Giants on equal footing.
Wasp, on the other hand, had some trouble. Her Giant form was only half the size of her opponent. Not to mention that each Giant is built like a mountain. Their strength easily dwarfed hers.
Fortunately for her, Wasp has spent months being trained by Captain America himself. Their one-on-one training sessions have greatly improved her hand-to-hand skills.
The Insect-Themed Heroine was no idiot. She knew that as a woman, she had no chance of overpowering larger opponents. Especially super-powered ones. But Cap showed her that what she lacked in the muscle department, she could more than make up for in speed and agility.
Just like how she usually fights in her shrunken form, Wasp can dodge and manoeuvre around larger opponents and strike at their weak points.
Unfortunately for her, the Frost Giants do not have the same weak points as a human being.
As she weaved around the one-eyed giant's punch, she immediately jabbed him under the armpit.
The moment she made contact, it felt like she was hitting a glacier. And the Frost Giant wasn't phased by the attack at all.
She looked up at the Giant with a nervous expression. The one-eyed giant glared down at her as she let out an awkward chuckle.
"Hehe. Tickle, tickle." She said, wiggling her fingers in the giant's armpit.
The Frost Giant roared as he swung his arm at her, causing her to duck and roll out of the way.
Due to her avoiding his strike, the one-eyed giant swung too wide and lost his balance. Forcing him to shift his leg to keep himself stable.
Capitalizing on that, Wasp rushed forward, stepping on the Giant's knee and using it as a springboard to boost herself closer to his head.
She cocked her right fist back as it glowed with yellow energy. With her own battle cry, Wasp punched the Frost Giant in his one good eye and unleashed the bio-energy right into his icy blue eye.
The Frost Giant howled in pain as he clutched his wounded eye and stumbled away.
With her opponent blinded, Wasp charged forward and used the wall as leverage to launch herself into a flying kick. Connected to the back of the Frost Giant's head, knocking him over with a loud thud.
The Giant-Sized Wasp landed on the icy floor and looked over to Giant-Man. The Size Changing Hero had the other two Frost Giants' attention as he swatted one in the head with the flat side of his axe before ramming his knee into the gut of the second one, causing it to double over.
Just as she was about to rush over to help him. She suddenly felt intense pain in her abdomen. The pain was so fierce she dropped to her knees and hugged her stomach.
This wasn't good. She had reached her limit in her Giant form. Even though she had been working out and training to strengthen her body, she couldn't stay in her enlarged state for more than a few minutes at a time.
And this time, Janet pushed herself beyond the safety margin. Thanks to the adrenaline rush from the cold and fighting against the Frost Giants. She was able to ignore the pain for a while, allowing her to keep fighting.
Only now, her body couldn't take it anymore, and she was bombarded with intense waves of pain.
She needed to shrink down and recover before her body shuts down from the strain.
However, before she could concentrate on her powers to change. A shadow cast over her, and she lifted her head to see the One-Eyed Frost Giant glaring down at her.
A dark patch surrounded his one good eye from her attack, and rage seethed from every corner of his being.
The Frost Giant raised his right fist and swung it at Wasp in a wide backhand.
Wasp instinctively tried to dodge, but her body froze up from the pain, leaving her helpless. At her size, even if she shrunk now, she'd still be too big and would be hit. Leaving her only option was to take the strike. She raised her arms in her best attempt to block. Her arms shook from the immense strain she was putting them under.
The giant's icy fist connected with her forearms. Pain exploded from her limbs, causing them to buckle as they were knocked into her face, and Wasp was sent flying as the Frost Giant batted her away like she was an insect.
The Size Changing Heroine flew across the snow-covered ground before colliding into the side of a glacier. The ice cracked as she fell to the ground with a heavy thud. Wasp groaned weakly as her consciousness slipped and her body went limp.
Her body shrank back to its normal size as she lay in the snow.
"JANET!" Giant Man roared as he punched the Frost Giant he was fighting in the face, stunning him before ramming the hilt of his axe into the side of his temple, knocking him out.
He then bashed the flat end of the axe blade into the side of the other Frost Giant's head before kicking him hard in the chest, sending him into the ice wall. The Giant stood there for a moment, wheezing before slumping to the ground.
Without missing a beat, Giant-Man rushed the One Eye Frost Giant. Who turned to face him. Weapon in hand, an ice club. He raised his club as Hank swung his axe.
The two weapons collided, and the giants pushed against them. The Frost Giant grunted as he used his brute strength in an attempt to overpower his mortal foe.
However, Giant-Man would not budge. His eyes narrowed as steam wafted between his teeth as he pushed back against the Giant.
Suddenly, Giant-Man sidestepped, causing the Frost Giant to lose his balance. Not wanting to fall for the same trick twice, the One-Eyed Giant quickly stepped forward to catch himself as he aimed to shoulder-check the Giant Hero.
Only for a yellow light to surround his body, and the Giant Man disappeared from view.
The One-Eyed Giant was bewildered by the sudden disappearance of his foe. However, before he could wonder if the Mortal cast some kind of invisibility spell. A blue glow illuminated behind him.
He turned just in time to see Giant Man's fist fill his vision.
The Frost Giant landed on the ground unconscious. Giant Man panted heavily and gripped his axe.
At this point, his body was being overtaxed. Being pushed this hard at this size. It's only because of the sub-zero weather numbing his body that he was able to last this long.
But he had to keep going. He had to keep Janet safe.
The wind picked up, and Giant-Man felt a chill run down his spine. He turned to where the sensation was coming from and tightened his grip on his axe.
Emerging from a wall of mist were three more Frost Giants. However, there was something different about these ones.
Specifically, the one at the front. This Frost Giant was larger than the others, with an icy crest that looked like a crown atop his head. Around his neck, he wore what appeared to be a small maroon box with gold trimmings attached to a cord that hung from his broad neck.
Giant Man felt an intense aura coming from this Giant as he raised his axe and prepared to face him.
The Frost Giant smiled in amusement as he reached up to the small box around his neck.
Glancing down at the box, Giant Man's eyes widened. Too late, he recognized that tiny box as the Frost Giant undid the latch and flipped the lid.
The moment that box opened, a torrent of Arctic winds blasted out of the box and blew Giant Man off his feet.
His extremities were the first to go numb. His arms and legs were quickly encased in ice, followed by his torse.
Giant Man struggled, but the ice layer was so thick he couldn't reach his belt to activate his Pym Particles.
He berated himself for not being fast enough. He should have recognized that box immediately. After all, it was in Tony and Thor's report after their fight.
The Casket of Ancient Winters. The mystical item that plunged the world into a second ice age.
Previously, under the control of the Dark Elf, Malekith, before his defeat. Only for the Enchantress to swipe the casket from under them and make her escape.
It would seem that she had given the Casket to the Frost Giants. Meaning that they are in league with her. Did that allegiance also extend to Zemo and the Masters of Evil? Or was this a part of some bigger ploy?
None of that mattered, though. The power of the casket had completely encased him in an icy prison. Leaving only his head free.
The Frost Giant closed the casket and advanced toward the helpless Giant-Man.
As much as he tried, tensing and straining his muscles to try and find some kind of leverage to free himself. It was all in vain. He couldn't even feel his arms anymore from the cold. And with how his head is positioned, he couldn't check to get a visual clarification.
Meaning he was helpless as the Giant trio approached him.
Turning his head to the left, Hank caught sight of Janet's unconscious body. Her small form lay peacefully in the white snow. Her beauty, untarnished from the fight and against the pure white backdrop, practically glowed with radiance.
Janet was always a free spirit. She could achieve anything she set her mind to. Once she had a goal, she would move mountains to achieve it. The moment she learned about his Pym Particles and his Scientific expeditions. She badgered him from dusk till dawn so he would let her join him.
Not a day goes by, he doesn't regret saying yes.
Had he not gotten involved with her family. Had he not met her. She wouldn't be laying there, freezing to death in a pocket dimension. She would be living a carefree life, running her fashion industry and company.
"I'm sorry, Jan." Hank said to her even though she couldn't hear him.
His heart ached as all the guilt he'd been feeling all this time overflowed. "I'm so sorry that I let you down… That I let everyone down."
He blamed himself for Ultron. For putting everyone's lives at risk. He wanted to make the world a better place. He wanted to show that there could be a better way to stop crime, stop all the violence in the world, and finally achieve a peaceful existence.
The Size Changer wanted that world so much. For himself, but more importantly, for her.
He wanted to see her smile every day. He wanted to hear her laugh. To feel her joy. To experience her passion and wonder for the world.
Above all, he just wanted to be with her. The days without Janet. Life had no meaning without her in it.
"I love you."
A shadow cast over him drew his attention. The three Frost Giants stood over him, the lead Giant towering over Giant Man like a walking mountain. Each step was an earthquake, and each breath was a blizzard. This giant was like the walking embodiment of Ice and cold.
Despite this overwhelming pressure, Giant-Man only felt one thing. Anger.
He didn't care that this walking glacier was about to shatter him like an ice sculpture. All he could think about was that after this guy was done with him, he was gonna turn his attention to Janet.
That one thought filled Hank with so much rage that his body started tingling. Warmth filled his body as a new wave of adrenaline kicked in.
He suddenly felt a tingling sensation in his arms. He could feel the odd angles they were frozen at. But he also felt where they were. Specifically his left hand.
A wiggle of the hand, his fingertips brushed a solid, smooth surface. Using all his might, he pushed on that hard surface.
Suddenly, Giant Man's body glowed blue, and his ice prison exploded.
The Frost Giant took a step back as the light grew brighter.
When it died down, Giant-Man looked the Frost Giant leader right in the eye. Standing at 1000 feet tall. Giant Man glared at the Frost Giant as he gritted his teeth.
"You're first, Frosty! Let's go!" He roared, his voice booming across the snowy planes.
He then cocked back his right fist and delivered a powerful haymaker right into the Giants, icy face.
The Frost Giant was so shocked by the Mortal's sudden display of power that he was too slow to react in time as the Size Changing Heroes fist collided with his face, sending him stumbling backward.
His two Frost Giant lackeys caught him, allowing him to regain his balance.
A surprised look was on the Lead Giant's face. Not from being stunned by a Giant Man attack. More than that, he was surprised by the Mortal's defiance in a hopeless situation.
Giant Man hid it well, but his right hand was throbbing in pain. He definitely cracked some bones with that hit. That Frost Giant wasn't like the others. He was way more powerful, even without the casket around his neck. Giant Man's punch didn't even phase him, nor did it cause any kind of damage to the Giant's icy face.
Still, even if he had no chance of winning. If he was going to die here. Then he will go out on his feet. Like a man. Like a Hero.
Like an Avenger.
Just as the Frost Giant Leader was about to raise his hand to the Caskett, he suddenly paused. His attention was drawn to the sky behind Giant-Man.
Curious, the Size Changer turned around to see what they were looking at. In the skies above him, a blue wormhole swirled in the air.
From the wormhole emerged three pure white horses. Each one had a pair of beautiful feathered wings. Pegasus is the name of the winged horse in Mythology, Giant-Man recalled. Though typically associated with Greek Mythology, it would seem the species also had some crossover with Norse Myths.
The three Pegasi were clad in armor and ridden by women in similar armor. One of them wore a helmet that covered her face, and her red hair was tied into a single braid that flowed down her back.
Next to her was another woman. She didn't wear a helmet and had long, blonde hair tied into braids.
Finally, the lead rider wore a silver tiara-like headpiece with wing-like protrusions on either side, allowing her long raven hair to flow behind her as she rode. She also wore silver and red armor that showed off her well-toned physique. In her hand was a traditional medieval sword.
The Lead rider swung her blade, aiming it at the Frost Giants.
"Attack!" She cried.
In response, her fellow warriors raised their spears. The heads glowed with mystical energy as they hurled their weapons at the lead Giant.
The Towering Titan stood motionless as his guards moved in front of him, weapons raised as they deflected the mystical spears.
Giant Man continued to watch as the lead rider dove straight towards his head.
"Move mortal!" She ordered as she gripped her blade with both hands and raised it in preparation to strike.
Her amber eyes displayed steely determination. Not wanting to get on her bad side, Giant-Man activated his belt and shrunk down to his human size.
With her only obstacle out of the way, the lead rider had a clear path to the Frost Giant Leader.
Diving for his head, the Shield Maiden aimed her blade at the cord around his neck.
As if predicting her intentions, the Giant shifted his body, throwing off her aim.
With no time to course-correct and losing the element of surprise, the lead rider swung her sword and slashed the Frost Giant's cheek.
The Titan grimaced in pain as steam hissed from the wound.
The raven-haired Maiden pulled on her Pegasus's reins and ascended into the air. Her fellow warriors at her side.
While the Giants fought the Shield Maidens, the Human-sized Giant Man ran toward the unconscious Wasp.
He scooped her up in his arms, cradling her body, taking care not to hurt her. Thankfully, she wasn't showing any signs of broken bones or internal bleeding.
While his doctorate isn't in the medical field, Hank is well-versed in first aid. Working in the field as much as he does, first aid is a mandatory requirement.
Just before he could take Janet somewhere out of harm's way. The Lead Frost reached for the Caskett of Ancient Winters and opened it.
Once more, the mystical winter blasted out of the tiny box. Galeforce winds pelted Giant Mans's body, and he was instantly knocked off his feet and sent tumbling over the side of the ledge of a cliff.
Hank panicked as his only instinct was to hug Janet closely. If anything, he could at least shield her body with his before impact.
As he fell, the Lead Shield Maiden saw his descent and swiftly turned her steed to dive after them. The mystical winged horse easily caught up to the falling pair. She reached out her hand and caught Hank, pulling him onto the back of her Pegasus.
However, the sudden motion caused Hank to lose his grip, and Janet slipped from his fingers.
Before he could cry out and dive after her, the red-haired rider caught her and positioned her on the saddle to prevent her from falling.
With both passengers secured, the raven-haired maiden turned to the blonde warrior as she attempted to fight the giants herself.
"Valkyries!" the raven-haired warrior cried as she aimed her sword away from the battle.
The blonde warrior complied and joined the others. Leaving the Frost Giants behind. The Lead Giant gritted his teeth as he aimed the Caskett at the retreating Valkyries and blasted its power at them.
However, the group was well out of range. At this distance, the power of the Caskett was no different from the rest of this realm.
With the danger behind them, the Raven-Haired Shield Maiden turned back to Hank.
"Truly, you are a wonder. Both a man and a giant." She complimented him. A grin on her face. "But you fought well, for a mortal."
Hank raised an eyebrow. It didn't seem like she was insulting him. Though "Thanks, I think."
The Raven-Haired Woman smiled as she willed her horse to fly faster. Causing Hank to grab onto her waist on impulse.
He turned his head to Janet, who was still unconscious while being propped up by the Red-Haired Warrior.
"Fret not, Mortal." The Lead Rider said as if sensing his thoughts. "She is still with us. Gruenhilda will ensure that the mortal woman is well cared for."
The red-haired warrior Gruenhilda nodded in acknowledgment to her leader and assured Giant Man, keeping one arm on Janet to keep her safe.
"The giant said this was Jotunheim. This is one of the mythical nine kingdoms, right?" Hank questioned, looking around the area.
"Aye, but that was no mere Frost Giant you fought. That was Ymir himself." The Shield Maiden explained. From her tone, Hank could only theorize that this Ymir was a serious threat. That would explain the intense aura he felt when fighting him.
The Raven Haired Woman continued. "The Valkyries and I have been fighting to hold them back." She turned back to him. "I am Sif, Shield Maiden of Asgard."
"Hank." The Scientist introduced himself politely.
Sif nodded back before adopting a curious expression.
"How came two mortals to this place?"
The Size Changing Hero sighed. "It's a long story."
Black Panther sprinted for his life across the barren wasteland. For the first time in a long while, the Wakandan King was feeling tired.
In his past battles, Panther's preferred method would be to pace himself in a prolonged conflict. Often holding back to analyze his opponents while making quick and precise attacks to try and narrow down their weaknesses. Using the shadows to his advantage before making the decisive strike that would claim victory.
However, in this place, the world is already shrouded in darkness. The Dark Elves are more adapted to the shadows than he is; there is no cover for him to use, and he already knows that these creatures have a specific weakness that he does not have access to.
His entire life, he and his people have relied solely on Vibranium as their primary resource. The versatility of the metal has allowed his nation to prosper and advance far beyond any other. Their pride and confidence in the Vibranium mound was well founded as it could provide an answer to every situation he needed.
Until today, where his hubris and pride have blinded him to the possibility of facing a threat that vibranium could not stop. Had he not been so stubborn and acknowledged his precious vibranium's limitations, he would not be in this situation.
It seems that, despite his attempt to break Wakanda's traditions and progress his nation, he himself still holds onto some traditional ideals.
He glanced back and saw the tide of Dark Elf Spirits swarming behind him. The mass of darkness threatened to envelop him. Dozens of hungry faces emerged from the inky black mass, preparing to consume him.
Acting fast, Black Panther reached to his belt and pulled out a pair of Vibranium daggers. While Vibranium is not as effective against Dark Elves, it's still all he has. He must make do with the tools at his disposal.
He combined the daggers at the base, and vibrational energy flowed from them, turning into a five-foot-long vibranium energy spear.
Just as the Dark Elves began to overwhelm him, Panther turned to face them, holding his spear before him and spinning the weapon in his hands. He rotated the spear like a propeller, managing to disperse the undead swarm.
While the precious metal couldn't effectively harm them, it was capable of slowing them down for a brief moment.
With the cloud of spirits dispersed, the Dark Elves were momentarily stunned. This allowed Black Panther a moment to catch his breath and survey the area.
This is one of the Nine Realms of the World Tree. According to his research and Thor's accounts, each realm is connected by Yggdrasil. This means that, like on Earth, ley lines must run throughout each realm, connecting it to the others.
Black Panther used the data his suit collected from his fight on Earth and calibrated his cowl's lenses to track any dimensional energy fluctuations.
After scanning the horizon, he finally detected something: a flow of mystical energy dropping into what appeared to be a dried-up, abandoned well.
Despite not knowing what could be on the other side, Panther knew that whatever the destination, it would be better than staying here.
Just as the Dark Elves reformed into their cloud mass, the Wakandan King sprinted from the well as fast as his legs could carry him.
He prayed to Bast to grant him the speed of a cheetah. Even though he is in the realm of the Norse gods, he has faith that his prayer will still reach his Goddess.
Black Panther's heart thundered in his chest as he dashed for the well. His heightened senses could detect the Dark Elves hot on his trail. Their undead maws breathing down his neck.
They will soon be upon him before he can reach the well. Despite his pledge, his Goddess's blessing might not get him in time.
His mind suddenly flashed to someone whose beauty rivals that of any Goddess.
Inspiration struck his mind like lightning as Black Panther grabbed his spear and made some minor calibrations. Reversing the polarity of the energy conductors and deactivating the friction dampeners to allow the static to build up. Finally, even though it's a rush job, he used his claws to carve mystic symbols into the spear shaft. Wakandan magic is not something he usually takes advantage of, but in this case, every advantage counts.
His crude attempt finished, the Black Panther leapt into the air, spinning as he did so, facing the massive maw of the Dark Elf hoard and throwing his spear into its jaws.
The Dark Elf clamped down on the spear, and it detonated, swelling the Dark Elf cloud as pressure built. Purple electrical energy arched across the black mass as the Elf's dark magic mixed with the overloading vibranium infused with Wakandan Magic.
Two opposing forces clashed together in a chain reaction that resulted in a brilliant explosion that lit up the dark lands of Svartalfheim. While also generating a shockwave that mimicked the sound of thunder.
Black Panther smiled under his mask. It would seem he has two Goddesses to thank for his survival.
With the way clear, Panther leaped forth and dove into the well before the Dark Elves could recover.
The Mystical energy swirled around him as a blue light flashed, and he was transported across the realms.
Fire Demons screeched as they flew over the Lava fields of Muspelheim. The Demonic creatures dove into a canyon of brimstone cliffs before flying into the distance.
After they passed over a mass of rocky outcrops, the head of Balder the Brave emerged from its hiding spot.
"The way is clear. We must make haste before the next patrol arrives," he whispered to the ledge below him.
From behind a set of boulders, Four Arms appeared, carrying Heimdall on his back. His lower arms supported the weakened Asgardian while his upper arms remained free, except for his right arm, which held Heimdall's axe.
The Alien Teen initially intended to turn into NRG for the trip. His natural immunity to heat and indestructible armor would have been extremely useful should a fight occur. However, the heavy metal suit made too much noise for an inconspicuous hiking trip across enemy lines and the bulky frame made it awkward for his to carry Heimdall.
At least, that's the excuse Ben is going with, since the dumb watch gave him the wrong alien and the Teen Avenger just wanted to save face in front of the Asgardians.
The trio had left their cave some time ago and were making their way through the canyon to the other side while avoiding detection by any Fire Demons along the way.
With Heimdall still weak, he had trouble walking by himself. So Ben turned into Four Arms to carry him in order to move quickly.
Even with that, Four Arms couldn't help but feel impatient.
"Is this really the only way?" The Alien Avenger asked. Urgency in his voice as they marched on.
"Calm thyself, Ben Tennyson." Heimdall said from his position on his back. His eyes glanced off into the distance. "Your allies are fairing well in their battles. For mortals, they are quite resilient."
Four Arms smirked in a cocky fashion. "No, duh, they are Earth's Mightiest Heroes, after all."
Balder dropped down on the path in front of them as he drew his sword. "I pray your words speak truth, Changeling. For we shall need all the warriors we can muster to take back Asgard."
The Asgardian Warrior gripped his blade as he cautiously moved towards the corner of the path. "That is, should we survive this realm."
"Fear not, Balder the Brave." Heimdall said, the irony of his sentence illuding him. "The Fire Demon, Surtur, is not aware of our presence."
"Let us hope, that remains true, All Seer." Balder nodded before they continued.
However, even with Heimdall's assurance, the tension was palpable among the trio.
From what Four Arms was told, Surtur is the ruler of Muspelheim and one of the most powerful beings in the Nine Realms. The Giant Fire Demon was capable of giving Odin a hard time.
Apparently, several thousand years ago, Odin and Surtur fought. The details were kinda skimmed over, but long story short, Odin just barely won, and all he managed to do was disarm Surtur. Taking away his sword and something called the Eternal Flame, which enhances the Fire Demon's powers. He then locked Surtur away in his realm and sealed it with a magic shield to prevent him from ever escaping.
The entire story reminded the Alien Hero about the inter-dimensional demon he fought against, Dagon. The story was pretty similar, which only made the knot in his stomach tighten.
Dagon was one of the most powerful beings he ever fought. He used some of his strongest forms against that thing and got his butt kicked pretty hard.
It was only thanks to some crazy last-minute twist and a reality-warping sword that Ben managed to beat him. Even then, it felt more like dumb luck.
To this day, Ben never forgot the feeling of helplessness when he fought the Dagon. If this Surtur guy is anything like him…
The Alien Teen shuddered at the thought.
Pushing those thoughts aside, Four Arms focused on the objective.
According to Heimdall and Balder, there is a secret path that can take them out of Muspelheim. Apparently, Loki has been using these paths to get around Heimdall's gaze and sneak into other realms.
It wasn't until Loki imprisoned the pair in the Fire Domain that the Keeper of the Bifrost started looking for them.
They didn't go into more detail about it, unfortunately. Because a group of Fire Demons were approaching, so they had to get moving. Leaving a few questions left unanswered. But Ben pretty much got the gist.
Find the secret portal, jump through, and don't get spotted by the fire monsters.
Finding it turned out to be the easy part. The hard part is getting to it. Because it was on the other side of Surtur Palace. Meaning the trio had to take the long way around it in order to avoid catching the Fire Demons' attention.
Talk about out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Fortunately for them, they had Heimdall with them. His all-seeing eyes could spot any fire demon that so much as looks in their direction and warn them ahead of time.
He was like the ultimate cheat sheet. Four Arms made a mental note to teach this guy how to use a phone. With this guy helping them out, capturing villains will be a piece of cake.
As they rounded the corner, their path took them behind a Lava waterfall. The Molten rock flowed like a massive curtain that dropped just beyond the path. Heat distorted the air as Four Arms raised his one free arm to shield his face.
The Red Alien's natural durability allowed him to withstand the heat. However, he's far from invulnerable to the extreme temperatures. Going through that tunnel will be a challenge for him.
"If you need rest, Young Ben. Allow me to carry Heimdall through this path." Balder offered.
Four Arms shook his head. "I got him. We can't slow down now. I can handle the heat, just gotta move fast."
While he didn't mean to sound rude to Balder's offer. The more time they spend here, the longer his friends are fighting Loki's forces alone. Sooner they get out of here, the sooner he can help them.
"If thou is certain. Let us press on." The Asgardian Warrior responded as they walked behind the lava fall.
The heat from the flowing Magma was intense. Being in such close proximity to flowing lava is bad enough. But when he's surrounded by it in an enclosed space like this. The air choked his lungs, the heat stung his eyes, and he could feel his skin sizzling on all sides.
He rubbed his eyes to try and clear them, but his vision was still blurry.
It quickly became unbearable behind the falls as Four Arms tried to quicken his pace to get out of there.
However, with Balder in the front and the path being very narrow, he couldn't get past him and was forced to move at his pace.
Suddenly, Balder stopped in his tracks, forcing the Alien Avenger to halt as well.
"Hold here," Balder ordered. "The path ahead is treacherous."
He then started to tentatively step on the path, slowly inching forward like he was stepping on eggshells.
At this point, his patience had reached its limit.
"Treacherous? This entire planet is treacherous! We don't have time for this!" Four Arms yelled before marching forward.
"Ben, wait!" Balder tried to stop him, but it was too late.
With his vision blurred, Four Arms failed to notice the cracks in the path ahead. Putting his full weight on the cracked path, the floor caved in from under him.
On instinct, Four Arms free hand reached up to grab the wall next to him.
Only for the section of the wall to give way, and a hissing sound was heard.
"Young Ben!" Heimdall suddenly screamed before shoving Four Arm's head down.
Suddenly, superheated air erupted from the volcanic vent Four Arms had just opened. The blistering vapors singed the back of the Alien Heroes' head and hit Heimdall directly. The All-Seer cried out in pain as Four Arms continued to fall, and the path crumbled beneath his feet.
Acting fast, Four Arms swung Heimdall's axe into the wall. The blade dug into the volcanic rock like hot butter, stopping their fall.
He then dug his free hand and feet into the side of the wall and climbed across the wall as the path crumbled away and the vent grew wider and wider from the escaping pressure.
Balder dashed across the path with all his might, his boots narrowly staying ahead of the crumbling rocks.
With a mighty leap from both, the Asgardian Warrior and Alien Shapeshifter launched themselves from out of the tunnel and tumbled across the rocky ground as the remains of the path crumbled away.
Four Arms panted heavily as the air became tolerable again.
He got into a sitting position to see Balder kneeling over Heimdall.
The Young Hero's eyes widened as he rushed over to him. He gasped when he finally saw the All-Seers state.
Heimdall had severe burns across the upper half of his face. The skin around his eyes, particularly, was burned black.
Balder cradled the Keeper of the Bifrost's head in his lap as he tried to comfort him.
Only to turn his head to Four Arms and glared at him.
"Foolish Mortal!" he hissed. "I ordered you to wait. Yet you charged forth with little regard. Now look at what you've done. How could someone like you be worthy of Thor's hammer?"
His words cut Four Arms deeply. He was right. He should have listened when Balder offered to carry Heimdall. But he was too stubborn and impatient to hear, and now, because of him, Heimdall's been injured, and they've just lost their lookout.
"I-I'm sorry." Four Arms managed to squeak out. He didn't know what else to say. This was his fault.
Suddenly, Heimdall groaned as he raised his head. "N…Nnn…" He wheezed as Balder tried to help him.
"Rest, my friend. Do not try to move." He said. While Balder tried to stay calm for Heimdall's sake, panic was clear and present on his face.
"Nnn.. No." Heimdall responded as he forced himself up. The Keeper of the Bifrost then raised his head towards Four Arms. Even with his eyes burnt shut, the Alien Avenger could feel his gaze on him.
"Do not blame the boy, Balder." Heimdall managed to say. His breathing became steadier. "He is young and still has much to learn. This injury was all our doing. We all bear the blame."
Four Arms raised his hands in protest. "No, it's my fault. Really. I should have listened to you. I'm the one who charged ahead."
"Nay, Ben Tennyson," Balder stated. "Heimdall's speaks the truth. Had I been clear in my instructions to you about the path? Then, you would not have acted so recklessly. And had I insisted on carrying Heimdall through the path, to begin with? You would have been able to use a form that would have been able to endure the inferno."
Four Arms wanted to argue. He still believed that it was his fault and should be blamed for Heimdall's injury.
But this wasn't the time and place to argue the details. Not when they are still in enemy territory.
Deciding to put this discussion on hold for now. Four Arms reached for Heimdall, preparing to scoop him up in his arms.
When suddenly, a loud screech came from above them.
Balder and Four Arms looked up to see a pair of Fire Demons looking down at them from a ledge above their position.
The Demonic creatures let out another loud cry that echoed across the lands. No doubt a signal, alerting the others to where they are.
They then proceeded to draw a pair of flaming swords and leap down at them.
In one swift move, Balder drew his blade and swung it at the nearest Fire Demon. His sword clanged against the Demon's flaming weapon as they duelled briefly until Balder managed to stab the creature in its heart, causing it to disintegrate into ash.
The Second Demon came straight for Four Arms, who had Heimdall in his lower two arms.
It snarled like a hungry predator that spotted the weakest member of a herd and aimed its sword directly at Heimdall.
However, Four Arms grabbed the All-Seers axe and, with one clean swing, sliced the Fire Demon in half. The two halves burst into piles of ash on the floor.
However, they had no time to relax. In the distance, the sound of a swarm of Fire Demons approaching their position meant they had to get moving.
"Ok. Stealth part of this mission is over. Time for the speed run." Four Arms stated.
"Verely." Balder agreed. "We make for the hidden path."
Four Arms looked down at Heimdall with a worried look. "Can we even find it without him?"
"Worry not, Young Warrior," Balder assured. "Heimdall described the entrance to the hidden path to me. I can guide us."
Four Arms nodded as he reached for the dial on his chest. "It's gonna be tough dodging all those lava pools. We need a straight path to them."
He then tapped the Ultimatrix dial and transformed.
"ARCTIGUANA!" The Alien cried out.
The Frost Lizard quickly scooped Heimdall up and placed him on his back.
"Climb on!" He ordered Balder.
The Warrior looked at him hesitantly, but upon seeing the swarm of Fire Demons in the distance, he quickly obliged.
He placed his hand on the alien's blue scales and felt the refreshing coldness that provided relief from this realm's perpetual blaze.
With his passengers secured, Arctiguana glanced at them. "Hold on tight. I'll try to keep things chill."
Arctiguana opened his mouth and blasted a powerful beam of ice from his jaws. The beam struck the boiling rocks of Muspelheim and immediately started steaming.
Despite the intense heat, Arctiguana managed to form an ice slide, and he and his passengers jumped on it, sliding across the molten fields.
The Ice Lizard's sub-zero beam solidified the molten rock almost instantly.
However, it was just as quickly melted and undone the moment Arctiguana passed it. But that didn't worry him. As long as the ice ahead of him stayed intact, it was a straight shot between them and the exit.
He just hoped when they escaped, it wouldn't be too late to help the others.
The mountains of Vanaheim echoed with the rageful roars of the Incredible Hulk. The Gamma Brute fought against the Ogre hoard as they came at him.
Despite his best efforts, the Ogres still outnumbered him, and eventually, the barbarians dogpiled on top of him. Pinning him to the ground as they aimed their weapons at him and prepared to impale him with their blades.
With the Hulk restrained, one of the Ogres started to laugh.
"The beast is strong. But not strong enough." He said as the others chuckled with him. Raising their swords to cut Hulk's head off.
Hearing their words, Hulk gritted his teeth as his veins pulsed. Rage pulsed through his body. Not strong enough? They don't think he's strong enough?
"Hulk is strongest there is!"
With a Mighty roar, Hulk threw the Ogre pile off him. Send most of them flying into the air. The rest tried to restrain him again. Only for Hulk to swat them aside. Headbutting one in the jaw before punching another, sending him into a group behind him, knocking them all down like bowling pins.
Another pair of Ogres grabbed his arms, only for Hulk to pull them off the ground, crack their heads together over him, and toss them aside.
Hulk raised his right fist and delivered a devastating haymaker that sent another Ogre hurtling into the wagon full of prisoners. The Monster hit the wagon with such force that it shattered, taking the top off the wagon and knocking the lead Ogre off his seat.
Finally, Hulk turned to see the rest of the Ogres gathering together to charge him.
The Gamma Giant raised his hands, stretching his arms out on both sides of his body. Before slamming them together at full force. A sound close to thunder boomed from his hands as he generated a massive shockwave that blew the remaining Ogres away.
Hulk panted as his rage subsided. He couldn't see any more Ogres for him to smash. A small smirk pulled at the corner of his mouth. Those puny Ogres will think twice before they dare to call him weak.
No one calls him weak.
"Well fought, Ogre." A voice called out from behind him.
Hulk turned around to see the people from the wagon standing behind him. There were men, women, and children among them.
The man who spoke at the front of the group was a large, heavy-set man. Given the size of his gut, he was almost as round as Cannonbolt. He wore maroon clothes with beige pants and sleeves. He had a long orange beard and a helmet with three feather-like extensions protruding from the top.
He had his hands on his hips with a massive jolly grin on his face.
"Truly, you possess the gift of battle." He said, letting out a hearty laugh. Before bowing.
"I am Volstagg, the Voluminous. And with your strength, emerald one, we can take back Asgard, this day."
Hulk blinked as a dumbfounded expression was present on his face.
Not because of the praise the Fat Asgardian gave him. He's been with the Avengers long enough to be used to people not seeing him as a monster. Even though it's still a strange sensation.
No. He was confused because he'd actually forgotten they were there.
Hulk was so focused on beating up the Ogres that insulted him that he had legitimately forgotten that there were a bunch of prisoners he was supposed to be saving.
"So much for being a hero." Hulk thought to himself…
"Wait. Did he say Asgard?"
Captain America bowed his head as he dropped to his knees.
The mist around him gathered together and formed into the Howling Commandos. Jake Fury stood over the Super Soldier. A neutral expression on his face.
"Your times over, Cap." The Sergent told him as he held out his hand to the Captain. "You fought hard. Now, enjoy your reward."
Cap raised his head and looked at the hand. The temptation was so strong. To finally rest, never fight again, and live in peace.
Steve couldn't think of anyone who would turn that down.
However, something smelled off about this place the moment he arrived.
If these were really the Howling Commandos, they would not be blaming him for actions out of his control. They would be celebrating their reunion like old times.
But more importantly…
"If this is the land of the dead, then where's Bucky?" Captain America asked as he stood up on his own.
That's right. He's seen the faces of all his old comrades appear before him, taunting him, telling him he failed them. Faces of his fallen soldiers. Yet, Bucky was nowhere to be seen.
Not just him, but so was Timothy "Dum Dum" Dugan. A fellow soldier, a close friend, and a loyal patriot.
While Steve Rogers may have missed a couple of hundred Sunday Masses because he was frozen in ice, he would think God would be able to forgive his absence due to the circumstances.
But what really tipped him off. Was among the group of spirits that appeared before him. While he didn't speak and stood further back. Cap's eye did not miss the presence of James Howlett, clear as day, standing with the ghosts.
The Super Soldier just sat down with James Howlett, aka Logan: The Wolverine, over a pint of beer only a few days ago. Alive and well.
These were not the pearly gates and these were not his friends.
"No, no, this fight isn't over. And the Jack Fury I knew wouldn't rest until it was," he declared, pointing an accusing finger at the spirit before him.
The ghosts before him stood motionless, not even reacting to his words.
Captain America glared at them as he balled his fists. "No, I'm still alive. I can feel it. And I'm going to fight until I can't fight anymore."
With that, Captain America thrust his shield forward. The patriotic disc sliced through the apparitions like air, and the ghostly spirits dispersed, blowing away in the wind.
Captain America then noticed the winds picking up as he turned to see the cloud of mist that had been hanging over him since he opened his eyes in this place finally evaporated.
With the area clear, the Super Soldier found he was standing at the base of a tall flight of stairs.
'Tall' might not be the best word for them, as the stone slabs that made up the steps were easily half his height.
On either side of the base were a pair of braziers that burned with a ghostly green fire.
In the sky above him, hundreds of green crystals floated in the sky. From what he could see, within each crystal appeared to be a ghost, no a soul, of hundreds of beings.
Halfway up the giant staircase lay a huge wolf with brown fur and green eyes.
Past the wolf, sitting atop a throne, was a woman. She was tall, easily towing over him should she stand up. She wore a green and black bodysuit that hugged her body so tightly that it showed off her slender and shapely figure.
She wore a helm that covered the top half of her head. On both sides of the helm, a pair of horn-like protrusions intertwined with each other.
The Woman held a chain in her left hand that connected to the wolf, like a pet.
Captain America narrowed his eyes at her. No doubt in his mind that she was behind those illusions that haunted him.
Needless to say, he was not amused, nor did he have any patience left for her games.
"I do not know who you are, Miss. But I recommend you show me the way out." He turned to face her, tightening the straps on his shield, ready for a fight.
In response, the woman smiled at the Super Soldier veiled threat. "You are in Nifelheim now, Steven Rogers." She said in a sultry, seductive voice.
Her pale skin highlighted the green lipstick on her mouth as she gave him a smile that sent chills up Cap's spine. As if she just passed over his grave.
"There is no leaving." She said with complete confidence.
Despite the chilling aura, this woman was giving off. Captain America stood his ground. Even though every instinct in his body was screaming at him to run. Even though he felt like he had a hydrogen bomb aimed right at him. The Super Soldier would not yield.
He narrowed his eyes, raised his right leg, and climbed up the first step of the giant staircase.
"Well then, lady. We're in for a long night."
The Woman's smile grew ever more sadistic at the Mortal's defiance. As if she was looking forward to this talk.
Hawkeye has always been a dog person.
He'd often say that if he ever got a place of his own, he'd get himself a dog. A furry little companion that he would train and be a loyal friend that would never betray him.
However, currently, he is seriously considering being a cat person.
After hours of pursuit, the Asgardian Wolf pack managed to catch up to him and his Elf Companion.
The Archer was so focused on the Wolves behind them that he failed to notice one that hid in the bushes ahead.
It was over in an instant. The Wolf pounced from the shrubbery, and its jaws clamped down on the horse's neck before it could even react.
What followed was an elf and Avenger tumbling to the ground in a heap.
When they finally got to their feet, the pack had surrounded them. Their fangs bared as they charged at their prey.
Their only saving grace were the magic arrows the Elf had provided him. One shot from Hawkeye and the Wolf that killed the horse was vapourised in a golden light.
Just as Hawkeye drew another arrow to engage the approaching pack. The Elf ran to his fallen steed and retrieved a second bow from his saddle bag. A backup in case his primary bow got broken.
Something Hawkeye wished he thought of.
Now, with a second bow, the pair stood back to back as they fired one arrow after another, taking out the wolves before they could get too close.
However, unlike before, the wolves seemed to have learned about the arrow's destructive capabilities as the pack spread themselves out in order to ensure that the resulting wave of magic only killed one at a time.
While it still resulted in a wolf being vaporized. The downside is now the Archers could only use one arrow to kill one wolf.
Even with his incredible marksmanship, Hawkeye knew that they were in trouble.
A realization that became a reality the moment he reached for his quiver and grabbed nothing but air.
Turning his head, Hawkeye glimpsed his quiver and found it empty. His jaw clenched as he turned to his Elf friend.
"I'm out." He said.
"As am I." The Elf immediately responded.
Hawleye mentally cursed. This was bad; while he was nowhere near helpless in close-quarters combat, he was still an ordinary man. A physically fit, prime specimen of a man. But a man, nonetheless. No super serum, no suit or armor, nor some magical plant drug.
Just a guy with really good aim. Fighting a wolf the size of a bear. The odds were not in his favor.
Still, that didn't mean he was gonna take this lying down. Hawkeye gripped his golden bow in both hands like a quarterstaff. These mutts wanna take a bite out of him, he'll make sure they choke on his bones.
The Elf seemed to share his sentiment as he dropped his bow and drew his sword.
"You fought well, Archer. I am proud to meet my end beside you." The Elf complimented before turning his head to face him.
"I am Faraday."
"Clint." The Archer responded with the same courtesy. He raised his bow and prepared to make his last stand.
Suddenly, Hawkeye saw movement out of the corner of his eye. The Archer's sharp eyes caught a glimpse of a shadow moving through the vegetation, and a small smirk formed in the corner of his mouth.
"But all things being equal, Faraday." The Purple Archer said as his body relaxed and his cocky attitude returned. "I prefer to skip the meet-my-end part."
The closest Asgardian Wolf pounced at Hawkeye. Its fangs bared as it prepared to maul him to shreds.
But Hawkeye didn't react to the beast as he calmly held his ground.
Just before the creature could reach him, Black Panther burst from the bushes and tackled the giant wolf to the ground.
The Wakandan King used his enhanced strength to lift the giant wolf and throw the beast into the other two, sending all three tumbling to the ground.
As the Wolves attempted to get to their feet, Black Panther drew three vibranium daggers from his belt and tossed them at the wolves. In one fluid movement, the vibranium daggers pieced the skulls of each wolf, killing them instantly.
With the threat finally settled, Hawkeye walked over to Black Panther just as the Cat-Themed Hero finished checking the surroundings.
"Where the heck have you been?" Hawkeye asked in a sarcastic manner.
Beneath his mask, Black Panther smiled. He was glad his friend was okay and still able to make jokes.
Seeing that the two are allies, the Elf, Faraday, sheathed his sword and retrieved his bow.
"This is but a respite." The Elf Warrior informed the pair. A grim expression on his face. "My Lord, Fray, has already fallen. Alfheim is lost."
Pain filled his voice, which made the two Avengers feel sorry for the Elf.
Faraday then raised his head and gave a soft smile. "But there is a ship that can take you and your ally to safety." He offered.
Hawkeye blinked in surprise. This guy had lost his home and was fighting a losing battle. Yet he was still willing to help him and Panther so they could be safe.
The Archer shared a look with the Wakandan. Without a single word, the pair instantly knew what the other was thinking.
"Are you that eager to surrender your home?" Panther asked.
A shocked expression appeared on the Elf's face. "I beg your pardon?"
Hawkeye chuckled as he rested his arm casually on Panther's shoulder.
"What my pal here means is. We're not the kind of guys to run away. You saved my life, Faraday. Only fair that we help you out."
Faraday was stunned by the mortals words. They were really willing to risk their lives for a realm that is not their own.
"My friend. I cannot ask you to do that. This battle is not yours to fight." Faraday said.
Hawkeye scoffed. "Please, like that's gonna stop us. Besides, we still have some friends out there. Especially Thor. Wonder where he ended up?"
Immediately, Faraday's eyes widened in shock. "Thor? You are acquainted with the Prince of Asgard? The Thunderer himself?"
The Two Avengers shared a look. Apparently, Thor was well-known here.
"Indeed. We are closely associated with Thor." Panther confirmed.
"If the Mighty Prince Thor has returned to the Nine Realms. Perhaps there is still hope." Faraday mused a spark of excitement in his eyes.
He then shouldered his bow and gestured to the Avengers. "Come, my friends. I will take you to my stronghold. The news of the Son of Odin's return will surely change the tides of this war."
With that, Faraday rushed into the forest. Hawkeye and Black Panther, close behind.
Janet Van Dyne let out a groan as her eyes fluttered open. Her vision was blurred but she started to get sensation back in her body.
Last she remembered, she was fighting a bunch of giants with Hank in some snow-covered mountains. She recalled the cold and how her body was almost numb from the freezing temperatures.
However, now she felt quite toasty. As if wrapped in a warm blanket in front of a roaring fire.
At that moment, Janet recalled that one of the symptoms of severe hypothermia was that people felt hot and started taking off their clothes due to their bodies going into shock from the cold.
Her eyes immediately snapped open, and she lurched forward. Not wanting to become a human popsicle, she quickly tried to get to her feet and keep moving.
However, the moment she did, she immediately felt a head rush and almost collapsed to the ground.
She saw the hardwood floor coming right at her face and prepared to smack into it when a thin but strong arm suddenly caught her.
"Woah, fair maiden." A feminine voice spoke to her as Janet's face moved away from the floor.
With her shock subsiding and her vision clearing up. Janet finally got her bearings.
She was no longer in a snowy mountain. She was in a simple room, like those in a cabin. Very rustic and old-fashioned. With wooden floors, walls, and ceilings. The only light came from the fireplace on the opposite end of the room.
As the strong arm guided her back, she suddenly felt an incredible softness beneath her as she found herself on a bed. It was a simple wooden frame. But the mattress was heavenly. Like a soft, fluffy cloud. And the bedding. The sheets were so silky, and the blankets were so warm and comfy that she felt like she could drift off to sleep again.
She quickly shook off her drowsiness and looked up at the woman who caught her. She was tall, easily six feet tall, with red hair and blue eyes. She wore a black body suit with white armor on her legs, arms, and torso. A large sword was secured on her back.
The Woman smiled at her in a friendly manner as she secured Janet on the bed.
"Quite the fighting spirit, Janet Van Dyne." The Woman complimented. "Thy would fit well among the Valkyries."
Janet raised an eyebrow. From the way she talked, it was the same as Thor. And her clothing is definitely the same style. Very traditional ancient Norse. Was she a friend of his?
"Um, who are you? Where am I? And how do you know my name?" Janet asked in a rapid-fire of questions. When suddenly, she realised one very important detail. "Where's Hank!?"
She tried to stand up from the bed, but the woman swiftly pushed her back down.
"Calm thyself, Lady Janet." The Woman requested calmly. "You are in Konurlifandi, former training grounds of the Valkyrior. I am Gruenhilda of the Valkyries. We found you and your ally, the Giant Man, fighting Frost Giants in Jotunheim and rescued you. You were injured in battle and barely clinging to life. We brought you here to heal and rest."
Janet's expression softened as Gruenhilda finished explaining.
"Oh." She initially said. Feeling a little bad for her outburst. "Well… Thanks for the save."
She looked around the room and saw it was only the pair of them in here. Most likely, the Valkyrie was keeping an eye on her while she recovered. Which she was grateful for. But would have preferred a different person at her bedside.
"So, where's Hank?" Janet asked the Red-Haired Shield Maiden.
Gruenhilda smiled as she gestured to the door. "He currently speaks with Lady Sif and Brunnhilde in the main hall."
Janet nodded as she stood up from the bed and took one step towards the door before Gruenhilda got in her way again.
"Before the lady leaves. Perhaps she would like to clothe herself. Unless you wish for your male companion to see you in an unseemly sight." She suggested.
At first, the heroine was confused. Before she looked down, she saw that all she had on her was the silk bed sheet that was about to fall off.
Janet gave a small yelp as she managed to catch the sheet before it could expose her birthday suit.
"Where are my clothes!?" Janet demanded, her face turning as red as a tomato. She knew it felt a little breezy down there, but to be completely exposed like this.
She suddenly had flashbacks to her sorority days at college.
The Red-Haired Warrior chuckled at the Mortal Woman's embarrassment and walked over to an armchair near the fireplace.
"Your garments were drenched from the frosts of Jotunheim. So, I had them removed for them to dry and so that you may be warmed." She explained as she retrieved Janet's clothes and presented them to her.
Janet used her free hand to snatch the clothes and turned away. Still feeling embarrassed.
"Thanks. I appreciate it." She mumbled.
"Worry not. The Giant Man was not present during your disrobing." Gruenhilda said in a playful tone.
At that point, freezing to death didn't sound so bad to Janet.
With a chuckle, Gruenhilda exited the room, giving Janet some privacy while she got dressed.
Once she was back in her suit, Wasp opened the wooden door to her room and saw the area.
It was unreal. She could see multiple structures, most of them quite old and worn down, along with several tents and makeshift buildings that looked hastily thrown together.
There were several women dressed in similar clothes to Gruenhilda all around the campsite. Many were sharpening weapons, others were training in sparring matches, and still others were caring for the Pegasi they rode.
She counted roughly twenty or thirty women in total.
As Janet looked around, she noticed that the camp's wooden walls didn't seem to have been built in the usual manner. They looked more like they had been carved into the side of a giant tree.
Quickly glancing over the edge, her eyes widened when she realized it indeed was. This place was carved into a giant tree's trunk, no, branch. It was so massive that she couldn't even see where the base was. It just went on and on until it disappeared into a layer of clouds.
As she looked up, she could faintly make out other branches and what seemed to be the main body of the tree.
But the real puzzle was how stars and planets appeared to be scattered around it.
When Thor said his home was connected to a World Tree, he wasn't kidding.
Hulk was right. This is a really big tree.
She was so swept up in its majesty that she almost forgot her mission. Following Gruenhilda, they made their way to the main hall. The biggest building in the camp and one of the better-maintained buildings.
As she approached, she started hearing voices coming from inside.
"We are wasting time!" An aggressive voice rang from the inside.
Wasp entered the hall; the pyres were lit, illuminating the inside where several long dining tables lined the hall.
At the end, a skylight cast a bright beam on the far table, where three figures stood.
Janet immediately recognized Hank. The mere sight of him caused a wave of calm to wash over her, and the tension she felt was immediately lifted from her.
To his right was Lady Sif, clade in her red and silver suit.
And on his left stood a tall, blonde Nordic woman. She has long hair tied back with leather strips that fall in front of her shoulders. She wore a black, one-piece undergarment that essentially covered her torso and hips. Attached to this are a pair of silver breastplates. She sports a thick silver girdle featuring an ornate coffin-shaped buckle.
On each arm, she wore a silver bracer and armband, along with black sandals laced up to mid-calf with leather straps. A large, billowing blue cloak is fastened to her garment at the shoulders by twin, circular silver clasps. Around her neck, she sports a silver, segmented neckpiece.
This is Brunnhilde, leader of the Valkyries.
As Janet and Gruenhilda approached, they saw Brunnhilde slam her hands on the table, causing a loud bang that echoed across the hall.
"With our failure to liberate the Caskett of Ancient Winters from Ymir's accursed neck. Tis only a matter of time before Loki's forces track us here. We must seize this opportunity and attack Asgard while Loki's guard is down." The Valkyries leader declared.
Sif sneered at the Blonde Warrior and put her own hand on the table whilst gripping her sword hilt.
"You speak madness, Valkyrie. Loki is not the fool you think him so. He would suspect an attack. T'would be suicide!" Lady Sif countered. "It would be wise for us to find the rest of Giant Man's allies. If what he claims is true, his allies are scattered across the Nine Realms. Which includes Thor. We must find the Prince. For he is the only one who can possibly rival Loki's power.
"Your heart hath clouded your mind, Maiden. The longer we take, the more power Loki will gather!" Brunnhilde argued. "Should we strike now, and reach Odin's chambers. We can awaken the All-Father to put an end to Loki's scheme."
In response, Lady Sif crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Did the mighty Brunnhilde learn witchcraft in between her sparing? Or did Amora pass on some of her knowledge to you while you spent time as her plaything?"
The Valkyrie glared at the Shield Maiden with vitriol as she gripped the dragon-shaped sword hilt on her waist.
"Choose thy next words carefully, Shield Maiden. Or I shall relieve your tongue from behind your flapping lips."
The two women continued to butt heads while Hank stood between them, trying to de-escalate the situation.
"Ladies, please, there is no need for violence here." He said in a calm manner.
Immediately, Brunnhilde shot Hank a deadly glare, which caused him to flinch.
Janet couldn't help but giggle at the sight of Hank being nervous. It was adorable, especially when he inserted himself in the middle of an escalating catfight. Janet recognized all the signs. Be it a clothing store or a war room. Being a woman is a universal language.
Her little laugh grabbed the attention of the trio as they turned to see Wasp and Gruenhilda standing a couple of feet from the main table.
Immediately, Hanks's eyes widened upon seeing her.
"Janet." He gasped as he ran to her. Shopping short of wrapping her in an embrace. Much to her disappointment, he awkwardly cleared his throat and patted her shoulder.
"Are you ok? You're not dizzy, are you? Do you need anything?" He asked, clearly worried in an adorable fashion.
Janet's heart fluttered at his concern as she stepped forward and placed her hand on his cheek to calm him down. She gazed into his eyes and smiled sweetly at him.
"I'm fine, Hank. Thanks to you. I'm more worried about you. You took on those giants all by yourself. While I was pretty much useless."
Hank immediately took her hands and his and said loudly. "That's not true." The vast hall amplified his voice.
"Janet, you were amazing. You've only been using your giant form for a short while, and you've progressed far beyond what I could have predicted. Being able to move the way you do at that size and in fridged conditions." His face moved closer to hers, allowing her to see the wonderment in his eyes fully. "You were incredible, Janet."
Her cheeks glowed red from his praise and proximity to her face. It's been a long time since Hank looked at her with the same passion he did for his science projects. Not since she first became the Wasp.
She did not hate this feeling one bit.