Balder, still holding the parchment, stepped forward and began to read the penalties for a crime of such magnitude in a calm but firm voice.
"Kaizen, son of Midgard, according to the laws of the gods and the balance of the realms, the penalty for murdering a primordial god is death." Experience new stories on mvl
The voices grew louder, and all eyes turned to Kaizen, who stood firm, though there was a glimmer of concern in his eyes. He knew that his defense would not be easy and that his life was literally hanging by a thread.
Suddenly, a distinct sound of footsteps echoed through the hall, interrupting what seemed to be an imminent verdict. Loki, the god of trickery and deceit, rose from his throne with an enigmatic smile on his lips. His green and gold robes shimmered in the torchlight, and his eyes sparkled with a mixture of malice and curiosity.
"Wait a minute," Loki said, his voice theatrical in tone. "Are we really going to condemn this mortal on the basis of his own words alone? Does everyone here so easily believe that a mere human was able to kill Surtr, a primordial god as powerful as Thor or even Odin?"
The Asgardians muttered among themselves, and attention turned to Loki as he descended the steps of his throne and approached where Kaizen stood.
"Kaizen, you claim to have killed Surtr to protect the kingdoms, but how can we be sure? We need more than statements. We need proof. Something to show us that you really have such power."
Odin nodded slowly, with a pensive look on his face. "Loki may be right. Before we condemn Kaizen, we need to be sure that he is capable of such a feat. Any suggestions?"
Thor, still standing with a wary expression on his face, intervened. "Proof? What better proof could we have than the word of a mortal who has already confessed to his crime?"
"If he really did kill Surtr, his power must be put to the test." Loki said, spreading his arms. "Otherwise, we could condemn someone who is not the criminal."
Kaizen looked at Odin, determined. "I am ready."
The gods began to talk among themselves, considering what the appropriate challenge would be. Meanwhile, Kaizen stood, concentrating and mentally preparing himself for what was to come. He knew he could not fail. His life and the balance of the kingdoms depended on it.
After a few minutes, Odin rose again. "We have decided. Kaizen, you will face an opponent worthy of your strength. Loki, bring a champion."
"Indeed, my father, I believe that to test the strength of a man who can kill a god, there is no more appropriate champion than a god himself. What do you think, Thor? Do you think you could do us the favor of testing this man's strength?"
The hall, immense and grandiose, was filled with gods eagerly awaiting the continuation of the trial. The white marble walls reflected the golden light emanating from the massive chandeliers hanging from the vaulted ceiling. Imposing columns supported the magnificent structure, and the colorful stained glass windows cast dancing shadows on the floor, adding a mystical touch to the solemn atmosphere.
The murmur of the gods filled the room, a subtle melody of anticipation and curiosity.
Thor, with his robust and imposing presence, stepped forward, his hammer Mjolnir hanging heavily in his right hand. His blue eyes flashed with a mixture of defiance and caution as he looked at Kaizen. The God of Thunder was known for his strength and courage, but also for his impartiality in matters of justice.
"Kaizen," Thor began, his voice echoing through the hall like the roar of distant thunder, "I accept this challenge in the name of Asgard. If you truly possess the power you claim, you will prove to all of us here that your strength is worthy of respect. But know that I will not be complacent. This will be a fair and fierce fight."
Kaizen, still with the remnants of the azure energy pulsing around him, nodded firmly. "I am ready to prove my worth. Let it be a fair fight."
Why did Kaizen agree to all this? Well, he already understood Loki's game. If he proved that he was as strong as one of the gods, they wouldn't be able to kill him, but now he had a big problem because he really wasn't as strong as Surtr. He'd had help killing the Fire Giant and the God of Muspelheim, so taking on Thor alone was absurd.