Thor: God-Size Special # 1 2008 VF

Thor: God-Size Special # 1 (released December 17, 2008) is a one-shot comic focusing primarily on the forgotten legacy of the Executioner (Skurge) and features an anthology of stories by Matt Fraction and various artists. 

"The Death and Life of Skurge the Executioner"

The main story addresses a mystery: in the wake of the Asgardians' death and rebirth, no one in Asgard can agree on how Skurge the Executioner lived or died. Thor, Balder, and a reluctant Loki are forced to unravel the truth. 

• Differing Recollections: Each character remembers Skurge differently—as a poet, a cobbler, or a valiant warrior—highlighting how his sacrifice at Gjallerbru has been forgotten or twisted in the new reality.
• Journey to Hel: The trio travels to Hel to confront the Enchantress (Amora), who is attempting to use the fragments of the World Tree to bring Skurge back from the dead, threatening the stability of the Nine Worlds in the process.
• The True Sacrifice: Thor convinces the Enchantress that bringing Skurge back in this destructive manner would dishonor his heroic last stand. It's revealed that Loki, through trickery, helps Thor stop Amora's plot.
• Remembering the Hero: Ultimately, Thor is forced to effectively "kill" Skurge again to prevent the destruction of the realms. The story ends on a somber note, with the Asgardians finally raising a proper toast to Skurge the Executioner, ensuring his true sacrifice is remembered. 

Backup Story: "Like a Bat Out of Hel!"

The special also includes a reprint of the iconic original Skurge story from Thor #362, written and drawn by Walt Simonson, which depicts his final, heroic charge against the forces of Hela at the bridge of Gjallerbru.