The Frostians

Chapter 23

### Chapter 23: Shadows of Asgard

From a distance, perched on the edge of a high cliff overlooking the gathering, a raven watched intently. Its black feathers shimmered under the pale light of the moon as it shifted slightly, revealing a glint of knowing intelligence in its eyes. The bird was no ordinary raven; it was a messenger of Odin, the All-Father, observing the scene below with a mix of disappointment and contemplation.

Odin stood nearby, cloaked in shadows, his expression dark as he took in the sight of Kristian, Alysandra, Mimir, and Tyr sharing a moment of joy. The laughter and camaraderie echoed through the night, reaching Odin's ears, but rather than filling him with warmth, it sparked a flicker of ire within him.

"They've grown too comfortable," he muttered, his voice laced with annoyance. "Mimir should know better than to indulge in such frivolity, and Tyr... he should be focused on the impending storm."

Just as he was about to turn away, the raven flapped its wings and landed softly on his shoulder. Odin stroked its feathers absently, his mind racing. "This carefree existence cannot last. They must remember the weight of their responsibilities."

"Is it wise to intervene, Father?" asked a voice from behind him. Heimdall, the gatekeeper of Asgard, stepped forward, a smirk playing on his lips. "You seem rather perturbed. Perhaps it's time to remind them of their place."

"Mind your tone, Heimdall," Odin replied, a sharp edge to his words. "Your arrogance is as tiresome as ever."

Heimdall shrugged, unfazed. "They revel while we face the chaos of the world. I merely suggest we guide them back to reality."

"Reality is harsh enough without your constant taunts," Odin said, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration. "Perhaps you should consider a more subtle approach instead of antagonizing them."

Odin turned his gaze back to the scene below, watching as Tyr recounted tales of glory, Mimir shared his wisdom, and Alysandra and Kristian exchanged affectionate glances. A frown deepened on Odin's face. "It's not just Mimir and Tyr I'm disappointed in; it's the whole of Asgard. They've become complacent, convinced they can ignore the looming threat of darkness."

Heimdall scoffed. "Perhaps they need a wake-up call-a swift kick in the ass. You could use your influence to remind them of the stakes. Fear can be a strong motivator."

"Fear alone will not unite them, Heimdall," Odin replied, shaking his head. "They need hope, courage, and strength-not just reminders of what's at stake."

As the two gods debated, a boisterous laugh erupted from within Asgard. Odin turned his attention to the sound, finding Thor, his son, sitting at a table, empty mugs scattered around him. He was thoroughly intoxicated, his cheeks flushed and his laughter booming.

"Look at you, Thor," Odin said, his voice low and disapproving as he approached. "Is this how you honor your duties?"

Thor grinned widely, swaying slightly. "Father! Come join me! There's nothing quite like a good drink and the company of friends! I was just telling them about the time I defeated that frost giant single-handedly!" He gestured dramatically, nearly knocking over another mug.

"Is that all you can do these days?" Odin shot back, his patience wearing thin. "You've squandered your time on these petty tales while war looms at our doorstep. You should be training, preparing for what is to come!"

Thor's expression faltered momentarily, but he quickly recovered, raising his mug in defiance. "The battles can wait! I have my friends, and they remind me of what I fight for!" His voice slurred slightly as he spoke, a mix of defiance and desperation hidden beneath his bravado.