Chapter Text
MIDGARD
One at a time the survivors were helped out of the rubble as everyone started to clap and celebrate. As soon as Loki got out he tucked the Hel rock underneath his armor instead of attempting to stash it in his storage. Immediately after he found Thor’s arms wrapped tightly around him, squeezing the life right out of him. Wonderful, he’d survived days of twisted games and he was going to be smothered to death by his own brother.
He might have squeezed Thor back just as tightly.
“Andrew!”
“Callum!”
Loki turned his head enough to see two sets of parents rushing towards their kids, fussing over the two boys who were both a strange combination of embarrassed and relieved from the attention. The immediate area was overturned earth and bright lights up on poles. He looked beyond them to see flashing lights and an army of emergency personnel, police, and fire. In small groups there were members of the Einherjar. Behind barricades there were all sorts of citizens openly gawking…or using their phones. He turned enough in the other direction to see a makeshift medical center where all the children were getting checked over.
“Excuse me?” The voice was close enough Loki knew it was being directed at him. He gave Thor a slight shove as a hint and the thunderer released Loki just enough so he could turn around to address the woman who was apparently Andrew’s mother. But his brother’s hand was still resting against the back of his neck and he wanted to be annoyed with the gesture but he really wasn’t. Tears welled in her eyes, “Are you Loki?”
Loki blinked twice before he nodded slightly, both curious and wary. “I am.”
She burst into tears and threw her arms around him. “Oh! Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
Loki froze, his eyes wide, his arms out as Mrs. Johnson attempted to be the next one to squeeze his last breath out of him. She even kissed him on the cheek which had him blushing furiously. It was the height of impropriety. On Asgard married women didn’t do that to non-family members no matter how excited or thankful they were.
Thor was completely unhelpful by just chuckling. Tony wasn’t too far away and might be recording the whole thing on his phone (he definitely was).
Phillip Johnson, Andrew’s father, came up with his arm wrapped around his son. He didn’t seem the slightest bit concerned with his wife’s closeness with the mage, taking the opportunity to shake Loki’s hand vigorously. Eventually he rescued the trickster from his emotional wife before taking their son to get him checked over by the medical staff as a precaution.
Thor went back to squeezing, this time his arm around Loki’s shoulders. Loki indulged a bit before he sighed and lifted his arms in protest. “Okay, okay, enough.”
The thunderer just laughed and ruffled Loki’s dirt covered hair. “Not enough by half, brother.”
The mage huffed at his brother and snarked, “Stop messing up my hair.”
Thor just continued to look amused. “You are covered in dirt and debris, brother. Your pristine image has been destroyed.”
Loki mock scowled at him. But then his expression lightened and he said almost imperiously. “Keep hold of my scepter until I can find the time to store it.”
Thor groaned, knowing immediately his brother was talking about the scepter he’d used during the invasion. “Loki. That scepter is more trouble than it is worth.”
His brother nodded. “I realize that. But let us not leave it to be their trouble.”
Currently Thor was so happy he didn’t have the will to argue with Loki. With a sigh he knelt down enough to reach into the hole and yank the scepter out of the ground. “One scepter of whatever this is made of coming up.” He made a face at it as he straightened but kept a tight hold of it. But then he thought about what Loki had said. On any given day Loki would stash 10 or more things in his storage as if it meant nothing. “I did not think you required much seidr to store things.” Not that he really knew anything about the magics that Loki performed.
“I do not.”
Thor’s eyes started to widen in concern. “Do you need a healer?”
Loki was quick to reassure him. “I am fine, just…tired.” Lie. Such a lie. But as was often the case, it was a lie that Thor didn’t detect.
That was as much time as they had to talk before everyone else from the Avengers to the Einherjar started to crowd in to commence with a ritual of hand shakes, arms pats, and back slaps to let Loki know they were relieved he was back among the living. Even Barton had given him a nod, which was the archer equivalent of a series of manly hugs. Something similar was occurring around Natasha and Fury.
Yet Loki was ever watchful for that perfect moment. That victory lull where everyone was distracted. The children were all sent for medical evaluation. SHIELD was fawning over their missing members. Now that the rescue had been completed, the AEsir were congratulating one another. Thor was getting a pat on the back by the Avengers for recovering a living brother…
“Loki Odinson.”
Loki turned his head slightly to regard the human who approached with perfect timing. The cherry on top of this shit-sundae of a day. Sutton. The physique of a soldier, but the dead eyes of a killer. Mercenary or assassin is what translated to his mind. It had ever since they’d met. But unlike Natasha and some of the other SHIELD agents he had encountered with a similar specialty, this one caused the predator within him to take notice. Because this was a man who enjoyed killing and was constantly on the hunt for bigger and better prey. “This way to medical.”
Loki felt the two humans a few steps behind him. He didn’t have to turn. He could feel their eyes boring into his back, daring him not to be compliant. On any other day he would curse all three of them into canaries, cage them, and sell them in Asgard’s market. But that wasn’t a possibility today. He was so magically exhausted the wrong spell would end his life, which in turn was sapping his physical strength until he just wanted to curl into a ball under a blanket and sleep. Even shifting his form, which technically didn’t require magic, would be too taxing at present.
But he wasn’t helpless because he still had plenty of blades at his disposal and he would go down fighting. “I have already declined such an offer, but I thank you for your concern.”
“This isn’t voluntary. Don’t make matters more difficult for you than they need to be.” One of the men behind him cracked his knuckles. The other put a set of manacles on his wrists. “My associates will ensure you get to where you need to go.”
Loki raised an amused eyebrow, knowing it was made of titanium. Since Sutton had been part of that meeting, he currently didn’t have any suspicion of SHIELD’s intentions beyond the man before him. “Perhaps they shall, but you will not survive the experience.”
Sutton looked almost amused. “Look at yourself. You think you can kill all three of us?”
“It is a possibility, but your demise is a certainty.” Loki could already visualize what would happen. One step forward as he grips the hidden blade within an invisible sheath. A second step before he launches himself into the air as he breaks the manacles. He comes down and the blade lodges through Sutton’s heart. A far cleaner death than the man deserved.
“Seems pointless to resist.”
Two blond figures stepped to either side of Loki, providing a solid wall of Einherjar support. The Tadson twins. They didn’t even ask for an explanation, having overheard just enough. Sven glanced over at his brother Hrik before regarding the human. “The prince has declined your generous offer, human, therefore he shall not be going with you.”
Hrik leaned in just a fraction. “I do not believe you wish to explain to his brother, Prince Thor, why you did not heed his response.”
Fandral came up and didn’t take more than a couple of seconds to assess before he started to scowl, joining the Einherjar duo with his hand on the handle of his sheathed sword. He’d hung back from approaching Loki until now in reluctance. He was happy Loki had survived but he’d been dreading facing him considering how bad of a friend he now knew he’d been.
“An incoming call, sir.”
Stark made a face and tapped the ear bud that was linked to JARVIS. There were only a few people that JARVIS would put through right now. “Speak.”
“Stark.”
The inventor frowned and took a step away from whoever was chatting at him. “Fury?”
“You’re closest. Get to Loki now.”
Loki looked lightly amused as he replied to Hrik while watching Sutton. “Thor would be most displeased to learn that there is a faction of SHIELD that is untrustworthy.”
Tony took Fury’s not so subtle hint and slid in between the two sides, his hands shoved in his pockets to appear casual. “What’s the problem, boys?” His phone was also in his pocket. A press of the panic button would get the attention of all of the Avengers.
The mage inclined his head towards Sutton and his associates. “These humans thought I required medical attention. I declined.” Then he raised his hands a little to show off his new accessories.
Tony’s face was stone cold. “Sounds straightforward enough. Leave and take your thugs with you.”
Loki supplied helpfully, “I also offered to allow Thor to explain matters. Perhaps with Mjolnir.”
After a slightly pause Tony smirked. “Or hell, they can wait a bit and you can probably explain a few things.”
“Tempting.”
Willow silently slipped behind Sutton, her knife poised even as she was hidden by sight with magic from everyone. Almost everyone. Loki, even as exhausted as he was, could see her.
Sutton silently debated the odds as he evaluated those around him before he jerked his head slightly. As soon as they left, Tony turned to deal with the cuffs but Fandral had already broken them to remove them.
Tony shook his head. “Cowards.” Natasha silently joined the group, her eyes assessing.
Loki tilted his head slightly. “Cowards…with an agenda.”
The inventor frowned thoughtfully. “You think they’ll pop up again.”
The mage countered with a smirk. “I would be terribly disappointed if they do not.”
Stark was suddenly blunt. “You’re as bad off as you look, aren’t you?”
Loki huffed. “I am fine.”
Tony took a step and lowered his voice a little. “No. Loki, we talked about that.”
The trickster’s expression turned purposefully aloof. “What do you refer?”
Tony just gave him a look before he decided to ignore the trickster’s very subtle hint to drop the subject. “You don’t lie about important stuff.” Loki cast aside his casual attitude and glared at the mortal. But his friend just gave him a sad smile. “You are important, Loki.”
Loki opened his mouth to argue. But after a pause he closed his mouth again and glanced away. He didn’t say a word and he didn’t have to, his silence and the fact that he’d let those around him deal with Sutton sufficient.
Happy appeared and handed over two cold water bottles to Tony. The inventor lifted a subtle eyebrow and the response was a firm nod. Confirmation the bottles hadn’t left Happy’s control for a millisecond. Tony, since he knew he was dealing with someone who had serious trust issues, made a show of breaking the seal on both bottles and taking a sip from each before turning and holding them up in Loki’s direction. “Pick one.”
Loki was thirsty enough, tired enough, and trusted Tony enough that he took one and drained the contents in a matter of seconds. With a slight shrug the other was held out and the mage drank it without complaint.
Instead of chiding his friend about his issues, since he knew Loki had heard his point but would need time to chew on it, he let it go for now and nodded to the two AEsir. “Why don’t you two go grab Thunder from his adoring public while Locks, Flynn, and I chill right here. I think it’s about time we all got out of the spotlight.”
Fandral sighed in exasperation at the nickname. Loki started to cackle, his humor restored. Tony looked surprised. “You know that one?”
He bared his teeth. “Indeed I do.”
The brothers waited until Loki nodded to them in agreement before doing as Tony suggested. Tony didn’t look offended at all. “I think I like these friends of yours better than the other ones.”
Fandral winced silently but he didn’t object.
Friends? People were his brother’s friends. A select few might be his ally but he didn’t really have friends of his own. But then he really thought about it. The human beside him wasn’t wrong. Tony, Hrik, and Sven were some of the most steadfast friends he’d ever had in a very long time. Only time would tell if it would last, but it was a promising start.
He turned his attention to Willow and asked curiously, “Who are you?”
Tony’s eyebrows raised a second before Willow appeared. “Willow.”
“Jeez!” Tony jumped and put a hand over his heart before he started complaining. “No. Not another one. My heart can’t take three of you sneaking around and scaring the crap out of me.” Natasha and Loki already had such a tendency. He didn’t need a third one in the Tower.
Loki ignored Tony. “A Blade?”
She nodded and stated matter-of-factly. “Correct. I have been assigned as your protector.” After listening to the human chide Loki for not valuing his own health, she approved of the mortal friend of her prince.
“Until when?”
She lifted her chin just a little. “Until I fail.” Which would be after she died, for she wasn’t going to let anyone under her protection go first.
Loki’s tone and expression turned casual and secretive. “And you would accompany me everywhere?” Her response would mean the difference between seeing her as a true Warrior Companion…or seeing her as a guard assigned to him by Asgard to slip away from when necessary.
Willow knew what he was thinking. “Even to the gates of Hel.” Asgard may have forgotten about Hela but the other realms still remembered and feared her. Niflheim was under constant observation from a safe distance to ensure she stayed there. It hadn’t escaped notice that somehow Loki was able to appear on that realm without BiFrost transport and had been doing so for many years now.
Out of habit he swept the surface level of her thoughts, surprised that she allowed it. But it gave him the answer he was searching for. She knew where he went every year and who he visited. He wasn’t sure how she could have learned that but he wasn’t worried. He gave her a sharp smile. “I believe we will get along just fine.” She echoed that smile.
The Tadson brother returned. Both Tyr and Thor approached and they both looked concerned. “Brother?”
Loki gave them each a look. He knew whatever the Tadson brothers had said, it was close enough to the truth for both men to worry. “Your concern is noted but the first man to start treating me like spun glass gets cursed.”
Thor gave him a weakly snide grin. “When you are capable.” Loki just settled for hissing at him since he could do little else. Which unfortunately confirmed Thor’s worst fears.
Tyr looked at the group and nodded. “It is time we left, my princes.”
Tony hitched a thumb over his shoulder. “I got us a ride back to Stark Towers.”
The AEsir General evaluated with his eyes the small herd of vans coming to a stop, the side doors opening. “Will there be enough room to accommodate us?”
The inventor heard the question as more than just about transport. Asking casually, “Not planning on leaving?”
“No.”
He grinned, liking this situation even more than he had. Just in this short amount of time, if this had been the original crew to accompany Thor, he would have a much better impression of Asgard. “Works for me. And yeah, plenty of room for the rest of the Shakespeare troop.”
Loki interrupted them. “The children.”
Tony nodded. “Yeah, medical is about to release them. Two of them are going home with their parents but the others are in the system. Already got social services to give a green light. They’ll bunk at the Tower until they get around to housing them somewhere. Considering its NY bureaucracy, could take weeks.” Then Tony gave Loki a slow wink but the mage wasn’t quite sure what it was regarding.
The Avengers as well as several agents all stiffened and heads turned as the crowd was rather rudely parted. No one realized the reporter with her cameraman had snuck through until she was shoving a mike in their faces, the camera a silent witness. “I’m Tina McRorie, reporter for Channel 6…”
Fury muttered under his breath, “…goddamn McRorie…” Days trapped underground in hell. She was not the first person in the media he wanted to meet upon escaping.
She carried on excitedly, “Are we about to witness the Avengers restraining their prisoner now that the children have been rescued?”
Glances were exchanged. Loki raised a single eyebrow, his visible exhaustion fading behind a blank mask. Thor crossed his arms over his chest, still holding the scepter, and silently dared anyone to move against his brother. It was a stance echoed by Fandral and several of the Einherjar including the twins. Tyr narrowed his eyes.
Steve frowned. “Prisoner?” Clint and Bruce both gave her an unimpressed look. Natasha was deceptively still.
Willow scowled. “Like hell--…”
“NO!” Little Melody charged forward, throwing herself in front of Loki so that anyone trying to hurt him would have to get through her first. “You’re not hurting our Loki!” Loki’s eyebrows both jerked up towards his hairline. An interesting phrase of propriety from a child, yet he couldn’t deny the warm flush that moved through him to have someone instantly defend him.
El narrowed her eyes and stepped up to Loki’s other flank. Her hands started to softly glow a turquoise color, just before Loki put a light hand on her shoulder and murmured softly, “Calm yourself. No need to give them more ammunition.” She glanced at him and closed her eyes enough to sigh and will the magic away. The glow faded. He lightly squeezed her shoulder. “Good girl.” She perked up at bit, always eager to receive praise since it happened so rarely in her life.
Melody’s battle cry brought the other children running. Some had blankets wrapped over their shoulders. But all of them neatly evaded the corralling adults until they were all hovering protectively around the trickster.
Tina blinked before whipping around to confront Nick. “Director Fury. We all recognize him from video footage of the alien army that invaded downtown New York less than a year ago. Did this insane tyrant escape custody or is SHIELD so desperate in its Avengers initiative that it will rely upon terrorists for aid?” She held out a microphone for his response.
The AEsir had accepted for generations that mortals were lesser beings and such disrespect was not surprising. A woman was almost never a warrior, therefore no honorable man raised hand or weapon against one. But such insults against a Prince of Asgard were not permitted. Period. Several of the Einherjar sent Thor questioning looks, wanting to know if anything needed to be done about this woman. The only indication of the anger Veilya felt from such disrespectful words was a flicker of gold that sparked in her eyes, Bragi still sleeping in her arms.
Phillip Johnson, who had his hands on his son Andrew’s shoulders and who also happened to be a Senator, was glaring at her. “The man who saved my son is not a terrorist.”
Tony lifted an eyebrow. “Lady--…”
Loki’s smooth, soothing tones silenced all of them. “Do not be absurd. Asgard, the world Thor and I come from, is a realm of heroic protectors and would never send an emissary of questionable intent. Nor would SHIELD or your noble Avengers accept the assistance of a threat that could potentially endanger the lives of your citizens.”
“Then--…”
His smile was almost gentle. “If you will allow me to continue, my lady? I was not the one who kidnapped these poor children. They would hardly be willing to approach me if that were the case. The culprit is human…” His eyes flicked over the Stark for just a moment before he recalled the description the inventor used. “…a demented Harry Potter, I believe is an accurate description.” His smile sharpened. “Once SHIELD contacted Asgard with news of the plight of such innocents, Thor and I responded to assist your people. This madman has escaped our custody temporarily, but his capture is eminent.”
“A terrorist--…”
Loki held up a single, correcting finger. “Technically no. That unfortunate incident in New York you spoke of was not my idea. There was a third party involved. The puppet master, as it were.” Fiction and fact were weaved together seamlessly. Even standing there, covered in dirt, he carried himself like a prince and commanded attention. Everyone, whether they knew the truth or not, were all staring at Loki in awe.
That was when the sound reached their group. A low chant from the assembled crowd who were being held back by local police and SHIELD agents. The silent ones were just the random passerby who had noticed the destruction. But many more weren’t. They were young, from late teens through their mid-thirties. They all had their phones out, chanting ‘Loki’ over and over again. El hid a smirk.
The mage turned in their direction. A hush instantly fell over the crowd, all of them eager for a reaction. For once Loki took a page out of Thor’s book. He flashed them a broad, charming smile. A cheer immediately followed. Strange creatures, was all he could think. But since he was obviously on public display and that public seemed to be on his side he kept that thought to himself and waved politely.
“Are you saying you were brainwashed like the others?”
His head tilted slightly in what could have been an affirmative answer, a sly grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. “I am saying that after nine months of less than hospitable accommodations I was convinced to follow their plans. Their actions left me in such a state that I disavowed my own family that I had remained loyal to for the entirety of my life and suddenly I desired to rule your realm…I did not even recognize myself. I trust I do not have to be more explicit. There are children present, after all, and their innocence should be protected.” The words were accurate enough, but the order and emphasis of them heavily implied that he held no command over his actions.
“Then you are brainwashed no longer?”
His mouth formed a smile, as if he were a man who had gone through trials and emerged triumphant. “The months since those tragic events in New York I spent in Asgard. I have dedicated considerable time in removing those conditions and regaining the sanctity of my mind.” That last statement wasn’t a fiction.
Phillip and Fury exchanged a glance before the Senator quietly confided, “Thank God I don’t have to run against him for reelection.” Nick gave him a nod of understanding.
Tony was shaking his head, whispering to Bruce, “I have got to get him as my p.r. manager.”
The scientist snarked back, “Right. And the first time you piss him off he’ll have the whole planet out for your blood.”
The billionaire just grinned in delight. “Totally worth it if he can turn the media into his bitch.”
Tina asked, “What are your plans now, Mr. Loki?”
That smile sharpened, showing too many teeth. “Only those select few invited are permitted the use of my first name without title acknowledgement. I am Prince Loki. As to my plans, I intend to continue to assist your realm at Asgard’s behest until this threat is no more and your citizens are once more safe.”
“Yet your brother doesn’t insist--…”
Loki cut her off casually, “Thor may do as he chooses, but it is only polite to acknowledge a name preference.” He studied her for a moment. He doubted it was common knowledge he and Thor were brothers. “I am ready to depart.” He said the words carelessly with a touch of arrogance. But the way he was looking at Thor as he said this basically translated that he was dead on his feet and to get him the hell out of here before he collapsed in an undignified heap. Thor nodded firmly and everyone closed rank. It made it less obvious that Thor was assisting Loki to one of the SHIELD vans. The children huddled close as well; the Einherjar and Veilya followed directly behind them.
Tony didn’t follow just yet. “Or you can stay, Tina. I’m sure SHIELD would love to know who authorized you to bug my tower and endanger everybody’s lives.” Fury and Natasha both zeroed in on the woman.
Tina paled and started to stutter. “I d-don’t know what you mean.”
He just made a scoffing noise. “Sure you don’t. Sorry, hun, but frequencies can be traced. To that van right there. Yours, right?”
She shook her head, oblivious that the camera was still running. “But that--…it wasn’t my surveillance…”
Tony just shook his head and held up a thumb drive. “Yeah, the demented Harry Potter that kidnapped those kids and started all of this planted the devices to do a little recon before he put everyone through his game of horror. But you piggy-backed off it instead of giving us a heads up. Thanks for confirming. Also, not cool.” He handed the drive to Fury and walked towards the others approaching the vans.
Tina made a whimpered sound just before Natasha reached out and firmly pushed the camera down until the cameraman took the hint and turned it off. Fury’s expression was stony. “Escort Miss McRorie and her crew in for questioning. Take the van and the equipment with you.”
“Yes sir!”
Fury turned a little. “Hill.”
“Sir?”
He ground his teeth but he was suddenly looking forward to the morning. “Tomorrow I want an audit of Channel 6. Building. Personnel. Electronics and files. If their morals are that gray, I want to know how big of a problem this is.”
“Yes, sir.”
Steps from the vans, there was the screeching of tires as several dark vehicles stopped and more than 2 dozen military personnel in full uniform stepped out. The one that seemed to be the leader pointed. “Escort the children this way.”
Steve just looked flabbergasted. “Now what?”
Clint’s jaw clenched. “Nothing good.”
Loki froze and Thor mirrored him to refrain from dragging his brother. Slowly Loki’s head turned.
Bruce frowned in confusion. “They’ve all been cleared by medical.”
The man, who based on his uniform was a colonel, ignored the reassurance and repeated his command. “Escort the children this way, please.”
Loki growled low in his throat, his threat meant for Thor’s ears and uncaring if anyone else heard him. “Melody and El travel with me or I will use every last whisp of magic within me to put the fear of this God in them.”
Which Thor knew would kill Loki. He shifted them around enough to spot the two girls and gestured for them to approach with a single motion. Neither girl needed to be told twice and immediately crossed the distance to press against Loki. The mage knew Tony wouldn’t let anything happen to the other children but with these two he wasn’t taking any chances. Willow stepped closer so that she was directly behind Loki.
Fury stiffened and glared as he stepped forward to confront this latest headache. “I think I’ll need an explanation about why.”
“Those children have been exposed to radiation--…”
Tony snorted. “Magic. Not the same thing.”
The colonel argued, “No one knows how they will be impacted.”
Veilya eyed the man coolly, her annoyance growing. “As a woman of magic I do know. As to the response, they will not be impacted.”
“Who are you?” the colonel barked.
She raised an unimpressed eyebrow at him and replied in a bored tone, “Does it matter? I can also hear your little co-conspirators wishing to separate two of them.” Melody, being the smart girl that she was, hunched her shoulders and moved closer to El who glared and silently dared them to try.
Tony shook his head, unsurprised and thoroughly disgusted. “The ones that show mutant potential. Figures.”
Tyr frowned, not recognizing that word. He wasn’t the only one. “Mutants?”
Stark waved a hand loosely before he reaffirmed his attention on the colonel. “Explain later.” Which he would. He was curious to find out if the other planets out there also had them. “No one’s going with you. In fact, the kids are all coming back with us.”
Bruce took a step, his voice deceptively calm. “I insist.”
“You’re not going to unleash that monster around civilians.”
“For the love of--…” Veilya was done with all of them. It was like separating territorial males in a pissing contest. She crossed to the children, Bragi in tow, and created a golden barrier to separate herself and the children from them. “He does not have to. As you are seemingly unaware of what seidr even is, you obviously cannot use it. The children are leaving with me. There is nothing further to discuss.” Then she looked expectantly at Tony who smirked at these army types he didn’t know, but he was going to find out, before guiding everyone to the right vans.
***
“Put. Me. Down.”
It was never a good idea to ignore Loki. Doing that almost guaranteed sneaky revenge. Thor might be more wary if the trickster wasn’t so exhausted that he was carefully enunciating each word into his brother’s shoulder, not even having enough energy to lift his own head at the moment. Thor allowed Loki to keep his dignity as much as possible, the mage’s arm thrown over his shoulder so the thunderer could support him and walk-drag him along.
As soon as they had arrived at Stark Towers everyone else had made themselves scarce. The children and a portion of the Einherjar were all getting settled in Stark Towers one floor down.
Thor chose the door next to the quarters assigned for himself, taking a quick look around inside and satisfied with what he saw. It was a simple yet finely appointed suite, the bed large and the bay of windows currently covered with expensive drapes.
Thor used his foot to gently lower the scepter onto the floor before nudging it under the bed to hide it. Then he let Loki lay on his back at the edge of the bed so he could assist his brother in stripping off his armor, those green eyes glaring dully at him. The fact that Loki didn’t try to move said more than enough. It didn’t stop the trickster from snapping as Thor started removing each piece. “Leave my armor alone.” He may need the help but that didn’t mean Loki didn’t resent it at the same time.
The thunderer didn’t even pause as his fingers expertly found hidden clasps and buckles. He was as familiar with Loki’s armor as he knew his brother was familiar with his own. Over the centuries such knowledge had been vital to help address wounds in the middle of battle. “Brother, you need to rest.”
Loki weakly slapped at his grasping hands. “I do not!”
His brother rolled his eyes. “You sound 200.”
“Then take me back to Asgard.”
Thor paused. “Do you wish me to?” He would if that was what Loki wanted, but Thor suspected his brother truly wanted to be here to deal with the sorcerer and was just being difficult.
Loki ground his teeth together before he settled for snarking, “Your need to save everyone is pathetic.”
Instead of getting angry Thor grinned a little, accepting the unspoken answer and evading his brother’s weak protests to remove his gauntlets. “Is that your best retort?”
Grumbling softly, “…your helmet is stupid.”
Thor shook his head a little, carefully removing knives and daggers as he went. He was placing the weapons in a neat row along the side table…because Loki would throw a fit if the weapons weren’t arranged carefully. “So we are now reduced to cow and chicken, are we?”
“He escaped.” Loki sighed to himself. His magical quarry was injured, perhaps severely, but he wasn’t dead. That harsh, cracking sound had been a poor, instinctual attempt at teleportation. Maybe his quarry hadn’t made it to safety and had teleported into a bolder…but until his corpse was found Loki would assume nothing.
Thor pulled his hand back with a slight grimace, accidently finding one of the invisible sheathes with a half exposed blade. His blue eyes flicked to the table, doing a mental count and realizing Loki had well over a dozen weapons hidden on his body, and Thor wasn’t even finished yet.
But Thor heard Loki so he sucked on his cut for a second and asked, “How do you know? He could be dead.”
The mage considered that for a moment before he grimly smiled. “Ask the Director if his zombie is still animated.”
“His--…but…Fandral cut off its head and killed it.”
Loki snorted. “You believe they did not take blood and samples to make more of them?” He now knew enough about Fury to see a man who was dedicated to protecting the citizens, and he would do it by any means he deemed necessary. If something morally gray would accomplish that objective, then he would do it. “If whatever SHIELD has created still moves, the sorcerer still lives.” He growled softly in annoyance with himself. His one chance to prove himself a hero. “A failure…”
Thor shook his head, quick to correct him. “That you live is all I care about--…”
“Father would disagree--…”
The boots were the next to be pulled off, cutting Loki off, “He would not. And if he were to truly say that then he is a fool and I care not.” Thor pulled Loki up into a sitting position, supporting him with one hand on his chest while using the other to help him shrug out of his armored jacket. In spite of how light the armor appeared it was quite heavy.
“Cease pushing me around.”
Thor shrugged dismissively, “Stop me.”
Loki didn’t bother because he knew he couldn’t. “Inform the little spider I want my hunting knives returned.”
“When next you awaken you can do so yourself.” Loki’s hand was suddenly gripping his wrist tightly. The trickster wasn’t looking at Thor, but he also didn’t need to say a word. Thor instinctively knew what Loki needed. “You can rest, Loki. I shall not leave the tower without you.” Magic failed. Alliances crumbled. Loki didn’t want to lower his guard enough to sleep if there was no one he could count on to protect him during a moment of vulnerability. Only because Loki seemed to hesitate did Thor spontaneously say, “You have my word, Loki. I will not leave you behind.”
Not ever again.
But Loki did still have faith in Thor’s word. Thor waited until Loki’s hand released his wrist before returning to the task before him. The armor underneath the jacket was pulled over his head next, Loki now only wearing an undershirt and his breeches. The Hel rock that had been there dropped soundlessly onto the carpeted floor and rolled unnoticed under the dresser.
On principle alone Loki should be throwing curses at the thunderer. His stinging pride was demanding it. But they both knew he currently didn’t have the strength for it. Thor put a light hand on each of Loki’s shoulders and gave him a gentle shake. “You rescued those innocents, Loki, as well as Lady Natasha and son of Fury. You. Your survival and a partial victory is better than none at all. I am proud of you.” A spark of mischief flickered in Thor’s blue eyes. “And I know your girls feel the same.”
Loki sputtered wordlessly, red creeping up his cheeks. How in Hel did Thor know about that?? Thor just smiled knowingly in return. One look and Loki knew there was nothing he could say or do to convince his brother that he cared nothing for Melody and El. Deny and he would only get teased for it. Say nothing and he was admitting it. A trap.
“Where are they?”
Thor now hid a grin but he’d already had a side conversation with Tony about it. “Sleeping on this floor two doors from this one.”
On rare occasions Loki became aware when it was better that he didn’t speak. He chose that path for once, the corner of his mouth twitching upward in a crooked little smile in silent thanks. Thor felt his heart thump with joy to see that look sent his way. The smile that belonged to the brother he remembered long ago.
Without the extra weight sapping his strength, Loki was able to push himself unsteadily onto his feet. He allowed Thor to help him to the bathroom door but refused his aid within. His pride may be in shredded tatters but he’d rather preserve what little of it remained. A few minutes later, hair damp from a brisk shower, and changed into a generic pair of sleep clothes that apparently were provided on a shelf to all guests, he emerged. He ignored Thor tucking him in, closing his eyes…he could always get his revenge for this indignity later…
***
ASGARD
Hogun and Volstagg were stunned to find themselves in chains before the throne. Upon returning to Asgard they had been escorted directly to the dungeons and left there until now. It was quite a rude awakening to be fully shackled as any criminal would be and brought before the throne of judgement. The throne room for the most part had been cleared. The only ones present were the six Einherjar holding their chains, Tyr, four elders, and Odin.
Odin had decided to delay this confrontation until now. His sons were safe, so only now would he indulge himself. There were a few things he had to say, but he would wait for Loki’s return before formal sentencing. Because his Queen was quite correct, Loki’s opinion should be heard.
“This discussion will be held in closed session.” Odin thumped Gungnir smartly to emphasize the command. Most sentences were a matter of public record. For a closed session, what occurred would never be repeated and to do so could result in the death of the man who broke his honor to speak.
With the exception of the two prisoners the men all raised a fist to their hearts and bowed. A moment later the twin doors leading out of the throne room thundered closed and an aural spell flared to life to guarantee no eavesdropping…although the only Asgardian prone to do so was currently on Midgard.
Odin sat on his throne, the image of a figure of stern authority. He decided to cast aside the subterfuge. There was no further need of it. These men had demonstrated with thought and deed the truth. “As has been previously explained to Lady Sif, the declaration that Loki is a prisoner was merely a ruse for the mortals to bely their petty demands of what they believe justice to be. Prince Loki is not a prisoner and has settled his debt to Asgard in a different manner. He retains his title and his honor.” Both men paled while Odin’s voice deepened. “Even if that were not the case, prisoner or not, commoner or not, he is my son.”
Hogun appeared thoroughly confused. “But sire, how can you acknowledge him as your son? He is a frost giant. An enemy of Asgard. It was deemed they are the lowest and most dishonorable form of life.”
Odin tilted his head casually, his tone curious. But there was no denying the absolute fury in his eye. “Who declared this, for it was not I?”
“Sire?” asked Volstagg, who had heard similar things for centuries.
The AEsir king didn’t react beyond speaking. “I did not stutter, Sir Volstagg. Who in Asgard has more authority than I to announce officially the status of a race?”
Hogun stiffened a little. “It is common knowledge, sire.”
Odin narrowed his eye, but still retained that calm voice which was very unnerving considering they could all feel his anger. “You would further condemn yourself by declaring before my throne that you believe a son of Odin to be without honor?” Actions were dangerous but sometimes words were even more perilous. To claim a son of the reigning monarch was without honor was to attack the family’s honor. Such an attack the perpetrator would be lucky to survive without a demand for Holmgang. “I find it amusing, Hogun the Grim, that you choose now to speak.”
Volstagg swallowed. “Sire, may I speak?”
The king nodded. “You may.”
The rotund warrior licked his lips before he asked in confusion, “Why are we to be sentenced?”
Odin rose from the throne, leaving his weapon to stride slowly down the steps until he was standing before each man. He would say this, not as a king but as a man. He wasn’t ashamed of his origins. It was just more of an unpopular subject for anyone to admit to it anymore, in spite of his best efforts to the contrary. “Would it shock you to know that my mother was a full-blooded Jötunn from the royal bloodline of Ymir? Which would of course mean that as I have half of their blood, my eldest son acquired a fourth of it.”
The old king glanced over at Tyr who nodded once firmly. “My father was full-blooded of the 4th line.”
The Einherjar, who had followed Tyr from Midgard and who would all return once this matter was concluded, and the elders present also murmured similar affirmations.
Volstagg was staring at Tyr in shock, the man that he respected most in the realm.
Odin continued, “There are others within Asgard with a mixed heritage. Our differences are what make us strong. But no matter what we are or where we come from, we are Asgardian.” He gestured to the men in this room. All of them honorable men who served Asgard and would continue to do so. “But apparently it is common knowledge that the royal family is the lowest and most dishonorable form of life.”
Hogun looked like he’d swallowed a cherry pit. Volstagg sucked in a shocked breath. “Never, sire.”
Odin stilled and stated gravely, “What words you assign to him apply to the whole. Loki is one of us. That either of you believe that I will allow your threats against my youngest provides me a clear understanding of my failings as an honorable man.”
“Sire--…”
“SILENCE,” Odin snarled and stepped into Volstagg’s personal space. “Wagging tongues are removed. Glaring eyes are gouged out.” He slanted a glare at Hogun. “And men willing to speak treason and denounce their loyalty to the heir of the throne and the future Viceroy of Asgard are executed.” Odin turned away to slowly ascend once more. Volstagg silently swayed. “The only reason Loki’s true origins were not announced was because of small-minded fools like the pair of you. For his safety we have held our tongues, but do not think shame has anything to do with it.”
Tyr didn’t look at either man. “Perhaps one of them should be returned to his world, sire, since he is obviously not one of us.” Volstagg was AEsir and had been born on Asgard. His wife was AEsir and he had chosen to raise his children here. But Hogun had journeyed here from Vanaheim as an adult and never started a family here.
Odin paused and turned enough so that the men could see the thoughtful expression. “It is worth consideration as he has demonstrated a disgraceful lack of loyalty to the royal family.”
Hogun stiffened silently but said nothing. There were reasons that he had never returned to Vanaheim. At this point he was perceived as a traitor to Vanaheim and if he did so he would be murdered at the first opportunity. Odin gave the quiet warrior a piercing look before turning to return to his throne. Only once he regained his spear, a gesture that indicated he had once more resumed his office as king, did he stare down coldly at them both. “Are there any words you wish to offer?”
“No, sire,” Hogun answered.
Volstagg stared down at the floor and weakly offered. “I meant no ill will against L-…Prince Loki, sire. I only said I would not be able to lie to my family.”
Odin sounded almost casual but he was quick to correct the other man. “How curious. I had also heard of a deceit that apparently you believe either Loki concocted since infancy or your queen initiated. Your words, were they not?” Volstagg ducked his head down further to stare harder at the floor in shame. “To not speak of a truth is not to lie, it is merely a choice to remain silent.” A choice that Odin had learned could sometimes harm more than a lie, as Loki’s reaction to truth withheld had taught him. “But everyone does so. It is not a trait of dishonor. No one speaks all of their thoughts, or there would be words you and your companion would not refrain from uttering in my presence. The mortal inventor exercised more intelligence than yourself.” Volstagg winced, for it was a terrible insult to be seen as inferior to a human.
His normally gregarious tone feeble, “What of my family, sire?”
If Volstagg was expecting sympathy there was none to be found here. “You should have considered their wellbeing prior to now.” Because if the man of the household was imprisoned or worse it would make life very difficult for the remainder of his family if there was no one else to support them. “You will both receive a suspended sentence in the dungeons, housed together in the secluded wing, until I decide what to do with you.” Unlike the main wing which held glowing cells that could be modified with furnishings as needed, the secluded wing was an isolated section that was dim and bare of all but the necessities. Not even sound travelled out of those cells. Typically it was a temporary solution, the prisoners kept there for a few hours at most since enough time in isolation would drive a man insane. “Keep in mind that if any rumors are spread regarding the origins of any here including my sons you will be held responsible. Currently, I see a long drop and a short stop in your futures.” A turn of phrase to indicate a hanging. It was an exceptionally rare sentencing in the last 2,000 year. He leaned forward. “Prince Loki’s input will be most persuasive in determining your fate.” Both men stared at their king in horror. “Pray to the Norns he is more merciful than I.”
Epilogue
ASGARD
The Völva glided soundlessly through the palace of Asgard as if she had lived there her entire life. No one approached her. No one dared. Although several occupants had stiffened with expectant dread, thinking they were about to be given a command from the Norns.
She had a name once. But it had been such a long time since she had last heard it that she no longer remembered. She had been 5 when her mage mother had died a hero for her people, moving their planet to a different solar system in another part of the galaxy. At 7 a member of the Volur had found her wandering the golden paths, searching for something she couldn’t label. She became Völva, but she never forgot where she came from as tens of thousands of years had crept by.
For those of the Volur time stopped at a certain point. It was practical since not all Völva came from the long-lived races and there were only 40 Völva at one time. But it was also a reward of sorts, to be granted a long life beyond the limits of their species in exchange for her service to Yggdrasil.
She paused suddenly in her path forward as a name slipped into her mind. Another name to be added to the cards that made of the circle of Asgard’s leadership. But such was the way of the future. It was ever moving and changing.
Quietly she took the steps down to the dungeons under the palace and walked to the wing that was set aside for female prisoners, to see a dark-haired woman pacing within her glowing cell. “Sif.”
Sif paused and frowned. Just from her short stature and the flame of red hair Sif knew this other person wasn’t AEsir. But no one beyond the palace guards or visitors were supposed to venture down here. “Do I know you?”
The Völva just gave her a slightly amused expression. “No. But I know of you.”
The warrioress studied her a bit more closely. There was something familiar about her, but she couldn’t place it. Perhaps there was just something about her that was familiar. “We have met before?”
“No.” Not in this version of the cycle at least. The Völva studied the woman before her with her moss-colored eyes. So much potential and so many flaws. Her strengths as a warrior would be an asset as Asgard’s Queen, which she knew was Odin’s desire for the girl’s future. But there were character flaws within Sif that would only encourage Thor’s flaws, leading to grave mistakes. Also, there was now this dangerous clash between her and Asgard’s second prince. With the future slowly unfolding as it was now intended, Sif as Queen would lead to devastation for Asgard. “Such an interesting result. I suppose what you wished for is not what you needed.”
Sif blinked, her eyes filled with blank confusion. “What wish?”
The wish that was uttered at the edge of the universe, before the fountain of the Norns. Her simple yet profound wish to be betrothed to Thor. And a half wish for Loki to be a worthy prince.
The Völva took measured steps forward, up to the landing and through the golden barrier. Sif stumbled back in shock. The staff appeared in the Völva’s hand and she cracked it down sharply. A wall of silence formed. “You are one of the few in all the cycles to prove your worth and succeed, only to end with failure.” The quest to bring a wish before the Norn’s fountain was a treacherous one. A dozen tests must be passed, each more difficult than the previous, to succeed at such a quest. Most died in the attempt. She had been the one to advise Sif on the location of the first test. “Not only do you bring dishonor upon yourself, you will create doubt that any AEsir woman should be considered for warrior training in the future.” Bitter amusement filled her expression. “Or did you forget that they will be judged based upon your failures?”
Sif now knew this was a member of the Volur before her. She should fall to her knees in respect, yet all she could do was wallow in her current state of disgrace, muttering to herself petulantly, “This is all Loki’s fault.”
“Is it?”
The warrior goddess blinked, not realizing she’d said that out loud. But then she stiffened her resolve and nodded. “Yes, it is.”
The Völva looked through her for a moment. “You have been fighting anyone with a penis for so long you have failed to realize that not all males are your enemy.”
Sif stubbornly crossed her arms over her chest, feeling defensive. “I do not think of men as enemies. Loki declared us as such.”
The Völva considered the man being discussed. “As a seidmadr he has his own battles to fight. The pair of you should have been allies, supporting one another.” She focused chiding eyes on Sif. “Instead, over the centuries you tried to make yourself look better and him less by comparison.”
“That--…” Sif cut herself off. Her instinctive reaction felt too childish to utter.
“A belated moment of restraint. Interesting. But you were about to say something?” asked the Völva quietly.
Sif pulled in a slow breath, reigning herself in. “I did not say those things to make myself seem mightier by comparison.” Then she thought to herself petulantly, even though I am.
“Then why?” There was no response offered. The Völva stared silently at Sif for several long moments. Sif had yet to find regret. She had yet to understand. But she also didn’t want to do either, and that was a problem. Sometimes, no matter the words, the truth just could not penetrate past the emotions. Inspiration came to her and she said, “The Norns offer you a gift.”
Sif blinked in surprise. “A--…what gift?”
The Völva nodded but ignored the question. “Either you accept the gift or you do not.”
For some reason Sif felt wary, although she wasn’t certain why. “Is it permanent?”
“What you receive shall not linger, but you will not forget.”
After a moment of consideration Sif nodded. “I will accept a gift from the Norns.” From her way of thinking, a gift was a reward and the opposite of a punishment. What she failed to realize in her youthful arrogance was that to receive the gift of wisdom requires sacrifice.
The Völva nodded in return. There might have even been just a flicker of pity in her eyes, there and then gone. “When the Nebula will be its brightest. Then you shall receive your gift.” She turned, dismissed the enforced silence, walked through the forcefield, and left without looking back.
***
MIDGARD
Loki had chosen to reside in the suite next to Thor’s in Stark’s tower to rest his eyes. At least, that was how he chose to remember it. He refused to allow himself to accept that Thor had physically dragged him in here since he was too weak to walk, stripped him of his armor while ignoring his protests, and tucked him into bed like a child.
Ordinarily the trickster would have sneered at the very thought of sleeping anywhere other than Asgard. Thor’s audacity to manhandle him would have earned him a few curses. But Loki was magically exhausted to a dangerous degree, even worse than during the invasion. He’d only been capable of staying awake long enough to set up a protection spell. Granted, doing so would only further exhaust him but he would rather die than be truly vulnerable. He’d fallen asleep immediately on the surprisingly comfortable bed.
Sometime later, he had no idea how much later, he’d rolled over onto his stomach and flung his right arm out. A protesting squeak caused Loki to open his eyes just a crack to see a small figure. It was a mortal child who was being squished by his greater weight. With a soft groan he moved his body enough so that he was on his side, Melody immediately snuggling closer.
Were Loki more aware he might ponder how Melody had slipped past his wards. Wards could be just like an alarm system. Some systems ignored pets in the house but would still trigger if the window was broken. A similar concept he’d used with his spell work so that Thor could enter his rooms without difficulty while no one else could.
But he wasn’t nearly awake enough for such complex thinking. Loki wasn’t even aware that her body shifted from male to female as maternal emotions that were almost possessive in nature washed over her. She barely had the awareness to move her arm protectively over the little girl who had stolen her heart as she closed her eyes and sleep claimed her once more.
------------
Do not fear. This is not a cruel cliffy ending with so many strings left unresolved. Nor will I keep you waiting. I made a conscious choice to break this story up since it just kept getting longer…and to shift the focus of the story arc a little since the game has concluded. This will continue directly where this story leaves off, in the sequel The God of Chaos.