"We still can't restore the palace's shield. Our cannons can't detect them. Even... even Heimdall can't see them."
Fandral delivered his report in a muffled voice. Before him was a golden holographic projection of the Asgardian palace, completely exposed without the slightest protection.
"Your Majesty, we have completely lost our defenses."
Odin nodded thoughtfully. "Then we wait for them to appear. As long as the Aether is still in our hands, they won't be able to resist taking the initiative."
"Father King, are you saying you intend to use Jane as bait?" Thrór asked hesitantly.
"Everyone, leave," Odin said. Fandral and several guards bowed and withdrew from the hall.
Aaron hesitated for a moment and intended to leave as well, but Odin stopped him before he could turn around. "Wait a moment, Gaius."
"What are your orders, Your Majesty?"
"Hardly an order. I just wanted to thank you for saving my Queen."
"You're welcome. After all, the Casket of Ancient Winters you gave me last time was rather valuable.
If I didn't do something for Asgard, I'd feel somewhat guilty about it." Aaron glanced at Frigga beside Odin and spoke pointedly.
Saving your Queen counted as repaying the favor of that generous gift. Whatever happened to Asgard afterward had nothing to do with him.
Naturally, Odin understood the implication in his words, but he had no way to refute it and could only acknowledge it with regret.
To him, and even to all of Asgard, Frigga's life was worth far more than a mere Casket of Ancient Winters.
"Father King, you still haven't answered my question."
"I don't wish to argue with you."
"I don't want to argue with you either, but Jane..."
"It isn't that I'm using her as bait. She is bait now," Odin stressed with a serious