The echoes of battle faded as Velkharion strolled through the war-torn streets of Celestra, his steps heavy with exhaustion. The city stood resilient, but it bore the scars of the Frost Giant siege—sections of the walls lay crumbled, buildings were blackened with frost, and the air was still thick with the smell of magic and blood. The streets, however, buzzed with life. NPCs and players celebrated their hard-won victory, raising cheers for the heroes who had defended Asgard's capital. Yet amidst the jubilation, Velkharion walked alone, his mind clouded by the ominous message flashing in his HUD:
"The Frost Giant King, Thrym, marches on Asgard. The war has only begun."
For most, this would have been a moment of triumph. For Velkharion, it was a reminder of the consequences that came with wielding Gungnir, the spear of the All-Father. He adjusted the weapon across his back, its cold radiance still pulsing faintly, as if it too anticipated the trials ahead.
The aftermath of the raid wasn't just confined to Celestra. Across the server, players scrambled to prepare for the next phase of the event. World chat buzzed with rumors and theories, many directed at Velkharion. His name—once unknown—had now become a centerpiece in Asgardian history.
[World Chat]:
[FrostFang]: Velkharion triggered the war with Thrym? That explains the buffed mobs everywhere. Great. Just great.
[Nightshade]: Can someone PLEASE tell me who this guy is? I've never even seen him in a dungeon before all this.
[IronAsh]: Sounds like someone's a glory hound. Probably cashed his way into Gungnir or something.
[AzureBlitz]: Y'all just jealous. If he pulled this off solo, the guy's legit. I say let him handle Thrym, too.
Velkharion suppressed a groan, closing the chat feed with a flick of his hand. "Yeah, because that's what I needed—more fame and attention," he muttered. As a solo player, he had deliberately avoided guild politics and server drama. But the events of Gjallar's Cradle had thrust him into the spotlight, and there was no escaping it now.
Velkharion made his way to the Grand Spire, a towering structure in the heart of Celestra that served as a hub for strategists, adventurers, and merchants. The spire overlooked the city, its icy peaks reflecting the distant glow of the northern lights. From here, Velkharion could see the aftermath of the siege.
He paused at a secluded balcony, leaning on the cold railing as he gazed out at the horizon. Gungnir rested against the edge, its faint glow pulsing rhythmically. The spear's power was undeniable, but so was its legacy. Visions of Odin's battle against the Frost Giants lingered in Velkharion's mind, and the weight of that history bore down on him.
" Thrym's coming. This isn't just my fight. The entire server's going to be caught in the crossfire."
As he stood lost in thought, a familiar voice broke the silence. "There you are, Velkharion. Still brooding, I see."
Velkharion turned to see Kingsalamander, his old friend and former raid companion, striding toward him. The draconic adventurer's vibrant red scales shimmered faintly in the cold light, and his ever-present glaive rested casually on his shoulder.
"I figured I'd find you here," Kingsalamander continued, leaning against the railing beside him. "You've always had a thing for dramatic scenery."
Velkharion smirked. "And you've always had a thing for showing up uninvited."
Kingsalamander laughed, his sharp grin flashing. "Fair. But come on, man, you can't just carry Gungnir around and not expect people to notice. Half the server's talking about you."
"Trust me," Velkharion muttered, "I've noticed."
Kingsalamander grew serious, his gaze shifting to the distant mountains. "So, what's the plan? You're not seriously thinking about handling Thrym on your own, are you?"
Velkharion hesitated. He hadn't decided yet. The Frost Giant King wasn't just another raid boss—he was a legend, a figure of unparalleled power who commanded an entire army. Facing him alone would be suicidal. But joining a guild or relying on others felt like betraying his independence.
"I haven't figured that out yet," Velkharion admitted. "But I've got time to prepare. And whatever happens, I'm seeing this through to the end."
Kingsalamander nodded, his expression unreadable. "Well, if you need a hand—or a glaive—you know where to find me."
After parting ways with Kingsalamander, Velkharion returned to the streets of Celestra. Vendors and merchants had set up temporary stalls amidst the rubble, selling potions, gear, and rare items to adventurers preparing for the next battle. Velkharion stocked up on essentials, ensuring he was fully equipped for what was to come:
Greater Elixirs of Mana Restoration: x10.
Runic Forging Crystals: x5.
Blessed Healing Salves: x8.
Iceheart Resistance Charm: Increases resistance to frost-based attacks by 20%.
Satisfied with his preparations, Velkharion made his way to a quiet corner of the city, away from the crowds and noise. He needed to focus, to steel himself for the challenges ahead. He opened his inventory and reviewed his character sheet, noting his recent growth:
Level: 55
Strength: Enhanced by Frost Giant encounters and blessings.
New Magic Techniques:
Spear Mastery: Unlocked unique abilities tied to Gungnir.
Fourth Tier Magic: Elemental Convergence: Combines fire, frost, and nature magic for devastating AoE damage.
As he closed the menu, a new notification appeared in his HUD:
"Main Story Quest Updated: The Wrath of Thrym. Prepare for the Frost Giant King's arrival."
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