#chat with: lady sif

[smolvenger]

A Court of Mischief and Purpose Chapter Nineteen (Loki x fem! Reader Hiddlesverse Crossover Series, A Court of Thorns and Roses AU)

Series Summary: Sarah J Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series reimagined with Tom Hiddleston's various characters- Especially the events in the second book: A Court of Mist and Fury. England. 1885. You are dying of tuberculosis right before your upcoming wedding to the Lusty Vicar of Aldwinter, Will Ransome. As you lay on what could be your deathbed, the god of mischief Loki appears before you with a deal. He will heal you in time for the wedding...if you spend a week of every month with him.

Chapter Summary: You complete your revenge.

Word Count: 7K (I REALLY wanted to get to the part at the end)

Warnings: mentions of sex, masturbation, and cheating (I portray the canon cheating in The Essex Serpent as bad and both Will and Cora deserving of punishment, and if you don't like that, don't read this), Supporting Women's Wrongs. Violence, Loki being Loki. Mentions of religion.

Series Masterlist

A03//My Ko-Fi//My Etsy Shop//Masterlist//Wattpad

Taglist: @asgards-princess-of-mischief @jennyggggrrr @five-miles-over @fictive-sl0th @ladycamillewrites @villainousshakespeare @holdmytesseract @eleniblue @twhxhck @lokisgoodgirl @lovelysizzlingbluebird @raqnarokr @holymultiplefandomsbatman @michelleleewise @wolfsmom1 @cheekyscamp @mochie85 @fandxmslxt69 @skittslackoffilter @mischief2sarawr

On Wednesday, you went out with your mother to shop for Cora’s birthday present in the next larger town. There were times you both enjoyed going there for little outings more than the sleepy white and brown town by the seaside could afford. You stopped at the first boutique for women you found.

Clothes, yes, clothes would do for the gift. You recalled what she would wear. Grey coats and no corset when she was researching and running about. The grey dress for parties. You recalled the bright red dress that forever drenched your nightmares in infamy.

Women walked about with their hats and little purses dangling. Mother got into chatting with a shop-girl about what was on sale. The bell over the door would ring as shoppers entered and exited. Roses blossomed in vases amongst the goods. Walking about, you noticed several lacy gowns full of little ornaments on mannequins.

Not those dresses. Nothing with frills and feathers. Cora didn’t like that. She wouldn’t wear it. Your secret goal was to find the perfect attire, be it a dress or a coat or even a skirt or blouse that Mrs. Seaborne would not resist adorning. You had to keep looking.

Sometimes there was a slight hint of masculinity in what Cora wore….like Lady Sif... You did miss your trainer and somewhat friend- she had a heart beneath her sometimes aloof and brash nature…

Wait a minute- how hypocritical you were! Admiring Lady Sif and feeling embittered to Cora! Should you do this at all? No, no you had to gather yourself. Focus. You pushed the thought away to your mind.

It took some searching, but you managed to find your Trojan Horse for the gift. It was the perfect one for Cora. A new grey coat with no worn frays or signs of use. Just like the one she always wore. Practical, but not frumpy, comfortable, and subtly pretty. Only this one was new, freshly made with hardly any tears. Perfect for running about in the fields and forests and muck, searching for Serpents in the wood and the Serpent in your fiancee’s trousers.

You bought it at once. You both traveled right back home. Refreshing yourself with tea and sandwiches, you picked up your new package and brought it to your room. Taking out the coat from its box, you laid it down over your bed. A body, a ghost, a figure lying down in the realm of either death or sleep.

Cora, Cora, Cora, Mrs. Seabrone, the widow, her, her, her- The equal half of the pair that ruined your life. You had done your subtler strikes against Will. It was now time to strike against her.

You went to your desk. Getting out a journal, you tore out a blank scrap of paper.

Grabbing a pen, you wrote five words down in big, clear letters.

Once it dried, you folded it up.

The coat’s sleeves had two sides of the fabric. She wouldn’t see it if it was inside out. For it would be in the fabric itself.

You got out scissors, your needle, and grey thread. Then you cut open a hole in the sleeve. Folding the paper up carefully, you tucked it inside. Then you got your needle and thread and patched it back up so the scrap of paper was concealed inside the sleeve.

Yes, your powers could have done that. But you were determined to do it with your hands, with real effort- it was freeing, satisfying.

You then laid the dress back out.

You held out your hand. Concentrating harder than you ever did before with your magic gifts, you waved it over the coat.

The dress lay untouched, like normal.

You then retracted your hand.

Loki cut in.

'My pet, why didn’t you do that with your dear Lusty Vicar?'

' He never was ‘my’ vicar….why have him when I have a god and a prince as my husband instead?' you teased.

‘Well…I cannot blame you for that.’

You heard a small chuckle of his. You settled the dress back into the box.

' But…you are right, Loki! Will got all those letters, all the things that will come up to him. And there is one more thing I shall do to him. But it’s…it’s not like this. They were equal in this…so I should!'

The next day was conveniently a Thursday. The time Will went to the lake to pleasure himself over his mistress in the ocean or lake or stream or whatever body of water it was, as Loki confided to you. Or swim bare, as Will once confided to you in his times past. When you were so happy, in love, that as you smiled and looked at him in adoration, Will would only look at you with secret boredom and annoyance.

He was doing it again. He was bare. And if he was touching himself or swimming or both, it didn’t matter. He would be away from his house again.

That would be his mistake.

You hurried to the vicarage, not wanting to take your time before anyone could see you. You scurried up the stairs into his room. Finding his clothes where they were kept in his shelves and wardrobe. With every item, you placed your powers on each one. Each dark sweater you once smiled over, each white shirt you once lusted over, each tan coat hat made you stifle a giggle, every green vest, pants, down to one last sock.

Then, before he would finish, you hurried out and back. Not leaving a trace. You’d have to wait until Cora put her own on. But no matter what he wore, odds are, it would work.

It felt good. Deliciously good.

The next day, the church would be empty. You hurried to the little safe. Again, you took out some money. Again, you snuck it in your shoe. Again, you hurried home and put it in a blank envelope. Your magic that night would slip it under Cora’s doorstep. As you had your alibi of sitting in the parlor reading the Bible, you could do it while looking at Second Corinthians and not outside.

Consistency was key. The council and congregation had to realize there was a certain gap each week in what they pledged to give and what was recorded as then. Once they saw the gap that was Will’s responsibility and someone found that exact amount in Cora’s possession….no matter how much Will insisted on his innocence, there would be evidence.

And no one would suspect you. For you were now the “Miracle” woman. Seemingly blessed by God. No thoughts in your pretty head except becoming a rectory bride and nothing else.

The next morning, it hit you that you had to keep up appearances and then some. Since you were “blessed” by God, you would be a blessing. That would make them all like you even more.

When you first returned after the disaster that occurred with Grendel, you would walk about. Feeling like a shelled piece, your center torn out and thrown away. You would notice the looks on their faces. Once, they had a silent mixture of pity and disgust for you being “ruined.” But now, after the miracle, the suspicious town who thought anything and everything they saw was a part of something monstrous, magical, and greater than themselves be it in terror or awe… Now, they liked you.

And you had to make them like you even more.

You looked up at your parents at breakfast over your poached eggs.

“Oh! How are the Crawfords doing? I hear Mrs. Crawford is fond of flowers, may I go pick some for her?” you asked.

Your mother smiled approvingly, asking of the neighbors back home.

“With the Trickster god about, not in the woods! You must be careful, but you may buy some,” advised your mother.

With a smile, you went out, got to the flower shop, and bought a pretty bouquet of daffodils for Mrs. Crawford. You called on in time for tea and she cooed over the gift.

“Oh my- what a sweet girl you are, Miss Y/L/N!” she exclaimed.

She then revealed her hobby- collecting cookbooks and recipes.

“Oh- please tell me the recipe for making those little cakes, Mrs. Crawford! I’d like to surprise the Sunday School class for this week! Poor little dears, they deserve something nice!” you said.

She scribbled down the recipe that she learned from her mother, and then handed it to you.

For the next week, your free hours were spent building up a rapport. Patting children on the head, smiling at strangers, doing little acts of charity. It was better to stretch it out rather than pile it on thick in one go. It would seem natural.

One day, Martha, Mrs. Seaborne’s maid, was walking out with the widow’s little boy. In her pockets, there were pamphlets. You recognized it as from a magazine that was notorious in town for its liberality. He was doing his best to keep up with his chubby little legs, one tall arm reaching up to hold onto Martha’s. You stopped and greeted them like friends.

“Oh, hello there! Tell your mistress I cannot wait for the party! And how well he looks! What is his name?”

“Oh, hello there! And he- you have never been introduced! His name is Franklin, but we all call him Frankie,” explained Martha.

You bent your knees down to greet the little boy. Though you addressed him, his eyes would flitter anywhere but yours. They only flicked to you as you smiled, exuding warmth. Then you got back up to greet Martha. You asked her a little about the pamphlets. She rattled on about some bold, interesting, and brave ideas about slums and the treatment of the poor. So much, Frankie let go and was about to waddle away. She then gasped, out of her own spell, and gathered the boy back up.

“Already such a handsome lad! And so well-behaved!!” you cooed.

Martha bounced him a little and smiled at you.

“Perhaps you and the Reverend shall be blessed and there shall be a third in the vicarage soon!” Martha replied.

Loki’s voice rang in your head.

‘There better not be.’

You made sure to have such interactions with someone at least once a day. It was a little fun though. One benefit of being a clergy spouse was the opportunity to get to know others and do little acts of kindness for the community. To think, even before you were betrothed to Will, you could have done it. Done things like these for others, only with no plan behind it. Perhaps you would in Asgard.

You questioned Luke on his doings and said you would pray for him. You gave a beggar in town a few coins and he returned the favor by showing you an abandoned church. You told Mr. Banks to please stop drinking in excess and gave Mrs. Banks money for her pains. You smiled at grumpy old Mr. Cracknell despite his sneers. You gave flowers and gifts and cooked and baked for everyone- now they would all love you.

You once overheard two ladies smile at you. As you left, you heard their whispers- “She truly is a Blessed Lady!”

All would respect their miracle woman. See her as perfect for their Lusty Vicar. For his house and bed and ministry. At least, sweet and innocent. And at most- the Perfect Ideal of a Woman blessed by God Himself. And never suspect the secrets inside you.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

The evening arrived for Cora’s birthday party. You put on a nice dress of velvet and navy blue. This was partially for Stella, so even if it wasn’t the bohemian style your friend had a weakness for, it still was apt you should don her color. As you continued to get ready, you found your hands shaking as you put on your last bit of jewelry.

Gathering your gift placed in a box and wrapped up in ribbon, you headed to her house. Arriving at the front door, you lifted your hand to knock. Part of you hesitated. Your hand floated above in a trembling mess, curled and crumpled, as if to squeeze yourself into reality.

The old hesitation seeped in like tea levees in a forgotten cup of water, one that was once boiling and now grew tepid with each passing second. Should you do this? The coat was already in your hands, too late to be ungiven…should you just give it to her like a decent person and not use its magic? Should Cora be punished?

What if your father was right, and it was just “silly jealousy”?

Were you just bitter about Cora’s rejection of traditional feminine norms? Did it shock you to the point where you were upholding traditions blindly? Criticizing her for being an unfeminine woman? Feeling anger in her brashness and her boldness, because you projected your insecurities on her unfairly? You felt in your soul women should be considered equal to men….yet here you were, your heart turned against another woman! An unfeminine woman! An unconforming woman! Must you be a hypocrite and tear her down?

Not to mention her past. Cora’s husband hurt her and beat her. What a nightmare that must have been!

That was one odd similarity between you both- you loved two men, two cruel men- Mr. Seaborne and Will. And while Will never once raised his hand to hurt you, he didn’t have to.

And it must have been uneasy- having one little son who it was rumored was an “odd” child. And part of you…admired her wanting to pursue a passion, of bravely entering a male-dominated field, and wondered at the discrimination she must have experienced…

Your mind was reeling as you knocked on the door.

The maid, Martha, opened it. She greeted you kindly. “Ah there! Miss Y/L/N! Welcome in! Cora- come quick! Miss Y/L/N has arrived! And she has a gift!”

As Martha stepped aside, you came into the warmth of the house. A fire was crackling and there was chatter in the next room. You took a deep breath to steel yourself, as Cora walked to greet you. Donned in slightly fancier attire and her usual grey.

“Oh- hello there. Welcome in,” she greeted with a smile. Her voice a low mezzo.

You walked in and presented the present.

“For you, happy birthday Mrs. Seaborne,” you replied with a kind smile, despite your stomach churning. Perhaps you should just leave it, not enact what you set up inside, and let it alone.

Martha dutifully took the present and left. Cora went up to you with a smile.

“How glad you could be here! I hope I can call you my good friend, Miss Y/L/N,” she said.

Your senses reached out and could feel something in the pocket of her dress.

It was a letter she was going to send tomorrow morning.

A love letter to Will.

You felt your jaw and fists become tight.

“Oh, thank you! Please excuse me- I’m going to get something to drink,” you excused.

Promptly turning around, you began to walk over, your head spun for a bit. You found the dining room did have some red punch. Guests chatted with each other, ignoring you. You made yourself drink slowly. You urged your breathing to slow despite your racing heart and mind.

She called you her friend to your face, yet had the audacity to continue to pursue the man about to be your husband!

You took another sip. You felt some of the cold punch dribble on your mouth. You grabbed a napkin and wiped it. The little red drops look like blood on the crumpled cloth.

You then made up your mind about her. It didn’t matter if she pursued science or housewifery, it didn’t matter if she wore corsets or refused them. It didn’t matter who she was or what she liked. And it especially didn’t matter what happened in her past.

Even if it all explained why…in no way could you excuse or condone her actions.

If Will had forced himself on Cora if he lied about you to her… there would be nothing to forgive. She would be a victim as much as you.

But that’s not what happened.

A thought began in you, growing, spinning around in your mind in its quiet, angry, bitter delirium.

She knew Will wasn’t free…and she did it anyway…

And for that, Cora would receive punishment. There was no regret in your systems now. You would enact the gift when the time was right.

It even made you more motivated to enact the next part of your plan here- one seed was planted when Martha carried that present away. Now you had to figure out where to send the next letter. You were glad you remembered. Even if the present didn’t work- you would at least figure out where to send the letter.

But for now, you had to calm yourself. Take deep breaths and take note of the current moment.

A small group of people were gathered in the parlor. Saying you felt better after getting a little dizzy, you went over to meet them. You took note of those you knew. There was Mr. Charles and Mrs. Katherine Ambrose. A couple that lived close to Will. They were looking forward to having you as neighbors. They already viewed you as such as you went up to greet them. Charles shook your hand excitedly.

“How good to see the lady of Reverend Ransome! How is he today?” he asked.

Ransome…that was an odd name. Once you would have loved and now…how hollow it felt. Empty. It was going to be Stella’s name in another lifetime if it wasn’t you. Ransome- like the word “ransom”. Which meant to hold someone as their prisoner. To trap. There was a second meaning to the word to. And also the bargaining, the deal. The money paid would set prisoners free. So you would have been ransomed to be a Ransome and in need of a Ransom. Perhaps others would see the second meaning if you married him and lived a life of lies in that tall, white vicarage.

Only you knew which meaning it would take on for you or Stella had either of you married Will.

“He’s lovely. Said hello to us after everything he did. He was busy as a bee today- helped a farmer whose sheep broke out into the field. Then he was off to scold Mr. Banks about his crudeness over tea and biscuits,” you reported.

Katherine promised to indulge you in secrets of marriage and housewifery, gathered in gossip and recipes, and should the time come, child-rearing. You smiled and listened to her.

A few others trickled in. Luke you recognized was finger-combing his short hair. All sipping on drinks and biting off bits of treats before dinner of roast lamb.

As you sat down to the little main course you saw Martha bouncing along Frankie. Cora turned her head to the maid, nanny, and now it seemed, a cook too.

“Martha, make sure Frankie is in his bed by now, please.”

“Oh, of course, Miss,” Martha replied.

Cora turned around and began to pour out small glasses of wine for everyone. But you found yourself looking at Martha.

You took note of the look on Martha’s face. She hadn’t left but was staring at Cora. Lovingly, full of longing, blushing cheeks and soft eyes with a little smile…she hesitated before she turned and left.

Part of you was a little shocked. You were surprised- you knew your husband liked both men and women, so you shouldn’t be so shocked. It was the kind that took you by complete surprise and made you a little worried for her. But you looked down on your plate of dinner and ignored it, pretending like you didn’t see as you began to take nibbles off your side dishes.

Excusing himself, Luke turned around to leave for the parlor. Everyone gave little looks in confusion. Then he returned with a bouquet full of red roses. People gave little gasps, smiles, and the little laughter of delighted surprise, except for the birthday lady. She sat up, her posture rigid and her small eyes darkening, her round face still pale.

He knelt and gave the bouquet to Cora in a flourish.

“Roses for your birthday, our dear Cora! In addition to the present!” he declared.

But the object of this grand gesture did not change one bit in her face or body.

“Oh…thank you, they’re very nice,“ Cora replied politely. She took the flowers, set them aside, and continued eating. All as she did, he smiled big and tried to pay compliments, but she ignored him.

Oh, good grief! Was every person in town in love with Cora!? Did she have admirers popping in everywhere to swoon over her!?

Then again, it would cause a rift in your plans. For the third letter you had already decided that you would leave it in church where a member of the congregation would pick it up. You would have to take note of where Luke and Martha sat in church. If they discovered the letter, heartbroken as they would be, they wouldn’t tell a soul. Especially Martha considering this was her employer!

It then hit you…everyone loved Cora. Everyone owned up to Cora and offered their hearts. She had her pick of anyone in town, any soul…

And she chose your fiancee.

She knew he wasn’t free…and she did it anyway. The thought emerged again.

They began to talk. Soon there was a two-layered cake delivered. It had a coating of white buttercream that seemed delicious on the outside, but the inner cake was bitter and stale to your tongue. Yet the others greedily devoured the pieces anyway, only wiping away the cream on their mouths with napkins.

You reached your powers out. You found her room, her desk, her letters. Where was it- where was it? There were letters. Of course, the love letters from Will. But nothing- she must have already sent things! Oh, you couldn’t find anything! Was it hopeless? Should you plant two letters in the church?

But then, right before you could search further….a miracle occurred.

“I only wish to have more evidence. Mr. Sawyer of the Royal Institution was interested. He wished to see my notes on the fossils. Though it appears I will have to give him a hypothesis that he considers ‘great’ enough. That’s what I wish for my birthday,” Cora sighed.

“Do not fret, but keep at it. They will listen soon!” encouraged Katherine.

You took note as you delicately ate. Remembering the name. Etching it into your mind to be reached again.

You bore the rest of the party patiently, then said you were tired and excused yourself. The Ambroses cooed saying that the little parsonage bride would indeed need it in her excitement for the upcoming day. They escorted you back home.

The next day, you stopped at the library. You found the address of the Royal Institution of London, copying it down onto a piece of paper.

Once you got home from the party, you got out an envelope. You got out the second love letter, the “come quickly” letter being tucked in your bookshelf for Sunday.

The second love letter you placed in an envelope.

You then got out another piece of paper.

“Dear Mr. Sawyer, I have some unfortunate news regarding Mrs. Seaborne. I found this letter in the possession of Reverend Ransome, who is already engaged to a Miss Y/L/N. She is not of character fitting for your halls of science. Sincerely, Anonymous.”

Scurrying out, you sent it out to be mailed.

Now you only had to wait for Church. Use your senses to note where people sat. Then you’d plant the last letter.

Saturday Afternoon, no one would be there. You crept inside. Your senses reached out, feeling who sat where. You took note of where Martha and Luke sat. Even the Amrbose’s too, for they were fond of their neighbor and if they discovered the letter, wouldn’t talk. Martha liked the far left in the corner. Luke enjoyed the fourth in the middle from the door. The Amroses took the second pew to your left.

You got out one of the red, sturdy books of common prayer that sat there. Often there were pamphlets with the service order planted in the books. You picked a spot where none of Cora’s allies would sit. From your coat’s pocket, you got out the letter. The “come quickly” letter. The one that would shock and damn the most, for you had to get it to where it would reach more people.

You planted the letter inside the book. To make it, Will left it there by accident. A letter too juicy for anyone to resist or just leave.

Sunday morning, you delivered the little baked cakes for the children. and set it aside in the kitchen. They all cheered and gobbled them up, uttering thank you’s. You were immediately becoming a favorite to them. They went up and asked questions until they had to be corralled to learn about Mary and Matha. But even the old lady who taught them couldn’t resist one. She picked up a warm cake, sniffed it, and you saw her shoulders sag after she took a bite.

You went to the front row of the church. This was all normal. What was always done, despite your racing heart. You didn’t dare check your senses to feel when the moment happened. It would make you too anxious.

As people filtered through, if they didn’t find interest to go chatting with the miracle woman, you took note. Even during the service, your back turned to see all of them.

Finally the organ blared and it began again. You then returned to the service to look with pretend adoration at Will for one hour. In his white robes with a blue-green sash with gold ornaments, he stood before the crowd a the sanctuary. The bright, sunny day letting a bright light over the brown church.

“For our announcements, in just a month, we shall have our rescheduled wedding. We hope that those invited shall be available to join. And then, my dear Miss Y/L/N shall make me the happiest of men.”

You took note of those little wooden chandeliers. The cloudy, grey overcast day rather than a sunny one, their wicks were dry and unlit.

And he was standing right under one in the middle as he spoke on.

‘Do it, my dear,’ Loki whispered to you.

You made one of the unlit candles on the chandelier shake. Wriggling.

‘Fall’ you ordered it through your magic.

It then tipped over the side where Will remained for the announcements. There were a few gasps, and before he knew why-

PLUNK! The candle hit him right on his curly, auburn head.

He jumped his white sleeves up to his head with a noise he made out of pain. It wasn’t enough of a fall to do him any real harm, only a bit of pain.

The congregation burst into laughter. As did you. For all the tension inside of you, it was much needed.

The service began and then ended. When you checked it the next day…it was taken. You let out a smile, a deep breath through your system. A member of the congregation had “happened” upon the letter and took it. And likely read it. How could they not? Small places need entertainment. The content was far too shocking, too entertaining, too scandalous for someone in a small town not to read.

And they would do what people in a small conservative and religious town with nothing else to do did.

They would talk.

Then Mr. Brown would tell Mr. Miller would tell Mrs. Miller who would then tell the baker who would whisper it to his daughter and she would tell all of her friends at tea time and then one would tell Ms. Price and Ms. Price would tell Mrs. Banks who would tell Mr. Banks who would tell his drinking buddy Mr. Plume who would tell old Mr. Cracknell who would complain about it to Mr. Charles Ambrose who would then tell his wife Katherine. And by then Katherine wouldn’t talk and swear to secrecy about her neighbor but it would be too late because the silent melodrama behind everyone’s backs was already in its run.

The next two days, you could sense it. There was sadness, a pity on people’s faces as you greeted them. There was some hesitation when they talked- but they were even kinder to you than before.

When they interacted with Will, you noticed a cold politeness. One woman, after he left, crossed herself as if she met a demon. Some people seemed silently furious at Cora. Glaring at her.

The rumors started to circulate at last. The sweet virtuous, wonderful bride. The miracle bride. The bride who was blessed by God himself…only to suffer as it seemed her vicar was being tempted. The devil moving him to deny his oath before God. An oath he was ready to make before all of them. An oath already broken.

And you were now the figure of pity- poor, sweet Y/N! The bride God blessed! Now thrown away! What was he thinking?

So it would make the last three steps of your plan fall into place.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

It was Wednesday and Will was going to be here for dinner. Your mother rolled up her sleeves and began to cook away. You promised to wipe down every surface clean and sweep the steps outside. As you stepped out with a broom, you looked out at the front. Nervousness tightening your chest.

It was time to enact the next step. Part of you hesitated to do this.

But Will would be here tonight. It was the right time it would work- a time after he left when rumors were running high.

And if you did, then everything would start falling into place. You just had to gather your courage to do it.

You set your hand before the door.

This is going to hurt him more than it shall hurt me, you thought as a comfort.

You waved your hand over the front of your house at the door. Concentrating hard.

Nothing happened. Not yet. It was all coming into place. You swept with more of a flourish.

Once you had finished your errands, you saw your mother hurry out.

“What is the matter?” you asked.

“Oh, apples! I forgot! There is a new shop here with orchards from farmers! This fellow, Mr. Armstrong grows the finest apples! I forgot to buy some- I must be back in time to finish supper!” she chatted, putting on her hat as she scurried away.

It wasn’t long before she hurried and set the apples in a bowl. Though you insisted on being there to help with dinner. You had to learn to cook for your husband, you said. Preaching works up an appetite.

Another dinner, another evening like no other. Will got up a napkin and wiped the sauce off of his goatee before he continued. He reached a hand to hold yours, though it felt like a grip on you. Your mother cut everything into bits taking small bites. Your father devoured his plate within a minute.

Will looked over you, his eyes as soft as a lamb.

“I must keep you in my prayers now- and will help you. The council who appointed me- The Reverend Eckheart, Moore, and Bishop Green shall be here. And you shall pray the council meeting goes well, yes?”

“Of course, love,” you replied with a small voice.

The council meeting. He thought they would sip tea and discuss theology. How little did they know…a man who the town thought an attempted murderer, rumored to be unfaithful, with evidence of him giving money from the church to his mistress. A woman who was probably by now exposed as a ruined woman to the largest and most prestigious institution of science.

Part of you wanted to wait longer to see it all happen.

Everyone then gathered to be by the fire in the parlor to read for a minute as dinners settled. A domestic, normal scene.

Will then announced he would leave. He shook hands with your parents and embraced you and kissed you on the cheek. It almost pained you- a glimpse of what could have been. Even of what was.

You were scared to enact your step. But you wanted your revenge more. You would not let your mind run wild- you would act rather than dwell. It was now or never.

He left, closing the door.

You waited, counting the time. You turned back to your knitting in the parlor. Your heart raced. You could sense him there already walking.

You took in a deep breath. Remembering the mantra.

“This shall hurt him more than it shall hurt me.”

Sitting down to your needlework, you turned your head away. You urged the magic on the front side of the house as he began to walk away.

‘Go alight now,’ you ordered.

It complied.

From outside of the front door, a fire grew. It’s smoke spread. You turned your head down and began to knit as if not noticing it. For surely the Miracle Woman was only attending her womanly needles per her duty as a wife to the church!

Then there was smoke in the parlor.

“Fire! There’s a fire!” shouted your father. Your mother screamed. And you screamed with her in your planned terror.

Mother pulled all of you out of the back door before any of you could be hurt.

Neighbors ran out, pulling out to make a makeshift fire department.

“Fire! There’s a fire! Fire at the Y/L/N house!”

Will, with what little decency in his holy heart he had, hurried back to see the damage. You wailed out tears and clung to him like any sensible damsel in distress.

The neighbors hurried with buckets of water, and Will helped. Instead, you leaned on your mother, hugging her and crying, shaking it out per the innocent little victim. The Harris’s got wind and ran out, and soon the fire was silent by the water people managed to get out and toss at it. Even before it could creep in and destroy the place or hurt any of you.

But the front door and area were charred some, there was no denial about that.

“Oh, thank you! Thank you all! How frightening!” you said, tears streaming down your face like the little ingenue you pretended to be. You smiled at each one.

“Don’t worry, we promise, you’re safe now!” assured Mrs. Banks. From her white shawl, she reached out a hand to squeeze your shoulder.

“Why…what happened? There were no lamps, no candles there, nothing that could be alight!” your father wondered.

“Hm, looks like it started in the front,” Mr. Harris noted.

“There was nothing there! Could it be an accident? Oh- to think the house nearly burned down! How horrible!” you would cry, shivering like a doe in a rainy forest. Perfect for him to wrap his arms around, the image of a victim and now the one who began it.

“What happened before?” asked Mrs.Harris in concern.

“Oh, nothing! Reverend Ransome came by to visit, he just left. Then it occurred!” your mother reported. “We shall be fine, just careful! Just some charring in the front- nothing big!”

People would wonder. But you felt their eyes on him.

By the next morning, You knew the rumors would turn.

They already knew of the rumor of the affair. Now…with nothing else but the fire…

Someone tried to kill you, kill their precious miracle woman. There was nothing that could have caught fire by accident and it was started from the outside.

By someone who must have been out.

And it was Will who was there and was seen just outside and left right as it began.

The talk would turn.

Did he want to…kill his fiancee, the beloved darling YN, the miracle woman who emerged from Loki blessed by God? Why…then that made it even worse!

Moods would turn against him. Bad. People were polite, but their eyes would soften at you. Poor, pitiful Y/N! If this happened- then the Lusty Vicar was a Lusty Scoundrel! They frowned but kept polite. Oh, if only some act of God would happen to set him and his little tart in their place.

But one act was on the way. The last step in your plan.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Three days passed. And each morning you checked your senses to see where Cora was. It made you nervous. Your heart racing.

Then one morning, you woke up in the early dawn again. Your parents were still asleep. You could only wrap a shawl around you. Though the golden and emerald wedding ring remained on your desk. You fit it around your finger. Not too loose to fall off, but not too tight to squeeze it.

Stomach rumbling, you could only sip on a little coffee. Picking an apple from the bowl, you took a bite of it. Tasting the juices that tickled down your throat and crunched like bones in your mouth.

Your senses alerted you. Cora was wearing the new coat. She was in the marshes, in the woods.

Now. Now. Now! You urged. It was finally time. Time you would go home.

You got a letter left on your desk. You wrote it before and would leave it planted. Explaining that you loved Loki, you married him already, and that you were going to reside in Asgard already with him. Especially to fight Grendel. And that Stella once she was healed would be returned home too.

Then you set off. Your heart raced as you went through the woods in only your nightgown and shawl as you hunted Cora’s path like a predator.

Your thoughts reached out to Loki.

'Listen to me! It’s almost time!' you cried. 'Hm, yes my dear, time for what? I do prefer specifics,’

'Loki-I’m going to complete the last part of my revenge. Then I am about to give a signal. When I do- open a portal. And take me home to Asgard, Please!'

'Oh, anything for you,’ he agreed.

You caught your breath. Beneath the dirt had gotten on your little slippers. On the bottom of your skirt.

It was a similar scene. There in the chill woods where the birds sang about and an owl hooted over his night’s hunt. The little mist. The light wind made it cooler. You had known it before. And you would not stop to pick flowers anymore.

You were so familiar with this, this dream, this nightmare, this dance where you could recall each step.

So when you went behind a tree and turned to the field, the sight shouldn’t have shocked you.

Will and Cora. Her in the new grey coat and him again undone in his shirt and tan coat. The same scene again.

You thought you were strong, a brave person, thought you could take it, chew it, devour it, and digest and it shouldn’t bother you, it shouldn’t have…but…You felt the cold shocks, the electricity made with ice running down you. Pat of your vision blurry, making yourself small. Feeling small.

This time, Will placed his green scarf over Cora.

They talked a little bit. You couldn’t hear their words. Only small. Romantic.

He grabbed the long end and gently tugged it over so she would be close to him.

The exact same tug that he did at your skirt not long ago.

Yes, you were crying, small tears down. Your breathing faster and your mind whirring. Yes, you were shaken just like the girl you were before. Your mind was stricken with panic to where it wasn’t clear. You knew it would happen- yet why did it hurt again? You felt almost on the cusp of panicking, collapsing. Your failure and imperfections there in your soul, twisting like a knife to your chest. Your thoughts strangling you.

‘I’m not good enough, I’m not good enough, I’m not good en-’

‘You are good enough, Y/N Darling, you are to me,’ Loki cut in.

His voice broke out. You felt calmer.

You hid behind a tree. And waited. For whatever conversation, be they talking with their mouths or sticking each other’s private bits up the others, would be done.

You were different now- and this time, you had everything in place. You were not going to run. Fury was building in you. Ready to explode, run, scream. Yet you kept silent.

'Loki…keep me calm, steady, please…'

'Yes, my love- you are brave. You’re a brave, wonderful, clever woman. I love you, Y/N. You are my True Love, my wife, and my princess. I love you so much.',/em>

'I love you too.'

'Is that the signal?'

'No…I’m waiting for them to stop…'

You looked back.

Cora was alone now. Will must have walked off to the woods or fields or wherever. No scarf around her neck. The mantra repeating in your mind.

"She knew he wasn’t free. She did it anyway.”

Your eyes glared at her. You stepped a little out to see clearly. Though she was in the distance and you must have been just a figure, at most a phantom. Her small eyes down on the ground and a blush on her cheeks, nothing in her blonde hair streaked with red but her lover.

You kept your eyes focused and took a breath as you lifted your hand. Letting your anger run cold.

“She knew he wasn’t free. She did it anyway.”

You let that phrase be your guide as you pointed with a finger.

With a breath, you got out your magic. Urging it to tear the sleeve open from the outside.

After she did, she went up to glance at you.

Cora felt something off, feeling it funnily on her arm. She reached inside. Then her nose crinkled at feeling something. Then she got out the scrap of folded paper. Curiously, she took it out. She unfolded it and flipped it over to the side with words.

You stepped out of the tree. You gathered your face to be still, your body still. Only a woman in a bridal-white nightgown staring calmly at her, only your eyes showing what anger you held in your heart.

You waited until her tiny, scrunching eyes saw the phrase you had written. For just one second to pass for her to process it.

One second to react. To look up. To see you in the woods, the paper shaking in her hand.

It read:

“Mrs. Ransome sends her regards”

In a heartbeat, flicked your wrist, triggering the magic on the coat.

The coat burst into flames and Cora with it.

Your senses alerted you that Will was some distance in the field, praying. Wearing his coat- one that you cursed.

With a flick of your wrist, you let it burst into flames too.

It was poetic. Stella’s suicide attempt would have been a death of water. So it seemed fitting that theirs should be fire.

You turned around. You would not watch to see if Cora survived.

It didn’t matter.

As you walked into the woods, you heard her. The high-pitched, womanly, tormented scream of Cora Seaborne.

You smiled a little as you walked further and away.

[purringsquid]

39. “ You’re mine. You know that right?”heimdall x reader, can be nsfw if you're feeling spicy

(trust you with my LIFE rn, you can do no wrong)

Sorry for this taking almost two days, my first idea was a short sad ficlet, but then I changed my mind and suddenly I had a too many words and barely any Heimdall in it, (he appears later, unamused).

Same goddess reader as before, same dynamics.. and similar plot.

You’re mine. You know that right?

You were told that the Aesir used every excuse to celebrate. It proved true. That day at the court you are forced to listen to a very politically important debate about how the nights were warm and that it would do to throw a party as soon as possible.

“With a rising tensions with the Vanir it’s not the right time for spontaneous celebrations, I’m afraid. They might read it as us celebrating an upcoming war.” Odin says with all seriousness. “Of course, if we had a reason to celebrate, that would be different. I assume none of you ladies has good news to share with us?”

You swallow, looking at Sif, who in return looks at Nana, who looks at-

Your husband….with a very ‘or else’ expression.

“Oh, no.” You mutter, which makes your husband chuckle and that draws the attention of everyone else on him (and some on you). You blush, although, you know that it’s not you. Only Thor does not look at either of you, but on Sif, who shakes her head.

“Thank you for this sacrifice brother, I’m sure all the drunks of our realm will be eager to give their congratulations tonight.” Heimdall pats Baldur’s shoulders and gives him the most irritating smirk. “And Nana, of course.”

Nana blushes squeezing Baldur’s hand. It doesn’t stop him from trying to punch Heimdall with the other one, but he misses.

As he dodges, Heimdall does a showcase twirl towards the door and ends it in a bow to the rest of the court. You wish to punch him sometimes. “If that’s all I will depart to the wall-“

“We still have the matter of the dwarven shipments to discuss.” Odin cuts him short.

................................................................................................................

You have spent most of the night in the presence of Sif and Nana, chatting about the court, dancing and drinking unlady amount of mead and chatting about some unlady topics as the night went. You unintentionally make couple of the passing warriors burst into laugher, as you are showing to your companions just how big the flies in your realms are.

“Not that!” You sigh, letting it go, because with all honesty, you are not sure you could get up and stand still enough to punish them for laughing on their goddesses. At least Nana and Sif look just as amused, a fact which gives you the notion for your next words.

“But if you want to know.” You demonstrate the size with your fingers. “Not as big as his ego.”

Nana looks genuinely shocked and Sif’s hands shot up to her mouth to stop herself from laughing too loudly, letting out a high pitched noise as she does so. When she catches her breath she answers. “For a goddess of secrets, you are not very good at keeping them.”

Against your better judgment, you refill your drink. “Why would I? It’s not like he has a dignity to lose. Anyway,” you lean closer to Sif. “If you are willing to share, I’m curious about.. Thor’s proportionality too.”

Sif looks away and you think you might have overstepped, that she politely pretends not to have heard you, but then you notice her hands in her lap, giving you a subtle illustration.

The noise you let out is something between a squeal and a gasp of awe. Nana on the other hand is red as an apple and hiding her face in her hands. She’s quite adorable, so much you do not push her on giving her husband’s measurements too.

“You are a blessed woman, Sif.” You say instead, when you calm down a little.

“Oh, please.” Sif says, refilling her mug as well. “I have to beat him from morning to night for him to be even scarcely manageable.”

“At least you can beat him.” You sigh.

“And at least he’s there in the morning, Heimdall-” At the same time you finish your sentence Nana speaks too. “Oh, yes. Baldur doesn’t even pretend he-“

There’s a moment of silence as you both wait for the other to finish her sentence. A moment in which you forget what you wanted to say, as your mind goes back to the previous topic.

“I was saying, if you ever feel like adding a third one, I’m all in for joining.” You wink at Sif.

Nana, once again scandalized, gently punches your shoulder. “Y/N, did the All-Father know you had the mouth of dwarven barmaid when he chose to marry you into his family?”

“Yes, he did actually and found it funny that I would marry his bitchiest son too.”

“Y/N.” Sif sighs. “You just brought a doom on me. Now I will have to listen to Thor’s begging for the rest of the night and more if he still remembers it tomorrow.”

You do not understand, at least not until strong arms fall onto your shoulders and you feel his breath on the top of your head.

“I heard that.” Thor grunts, sweat and mead dripping from his beard onto your lap, luckily for you (and him), you’re too drunk to care. His warm arms cradle you from behind and you lean into them, starved for a warm touch of a man. “I’m in. Sif? Please”

Sif for her part keeps a serious expression despite her eyes shining with amusement. “Don’t look at me with your kicked-puppy-face.” On her next words her act cracks and she laughs. “After all, Heimdall might want to join too.”

“Eww.” Thor looks earnestly disgusted at the prospect. “I bet he doesn’t shup up even when he fucks.” He tries to push himself between you and Sif, but the bench has way too little space for that.

“No, he doesn’t.”

Even as Sif sat on Thor’s lap you still end up with half your butt in the air, because Thor just has to spread his legs.

He pats his thigh. “There’s still plenty space to sit on.” Ah, he so did that on purpose.

Sif rolls her eyes and gestures with her head, letting you know that she’s fine with both you sitting on his lap or kicking him until he moves. You choose the first option, letting Thor wrap a hand around your waist.

“Where’s the fucker anyway?”

“On the wall.” You roll your eyes. “Can’t pass on his work, it’s of huge importance, as if someone saw a single giant in centuries.”

Thor laughs. “Right, I killed them all.”

“He’s no fun on parties, anyway.” Nana rolls her eyes. “Once he tried to explain me that he doesn’t drink in order to get drunk but to savor the quality of the liquor.”

“Yes, that sounds like him.” You sigh.

“Does he also say he doesn’t fuck-“ Oh, you knew where Thor was going with this. “But savors the quality of the pussy?”

You put your hands on your face as you laugh, because even when it was an obvious joke you can absolutely imagine Heimdall saying that with serious expression.

“But enough about him, if you call snake’s name enough times he will appear,.. or something like that.” Thor pulls you closer to his chest, as he leans down to pick up a drink. “You ladies can get back to complimenting me.”

“I think I had enough.” Nana gets up instead (to Thor’s disappointment). “Goodnight, please don’t get into a fight with Heimdall while I’m gone” She nods to Thor. “I wouldn’t want to miss that.”

Baldur chooses that moment to walk over to you, making you wonder which of Odin’s sons actually has the gift of foresight. He takes Nana’s hand in his. “I kudos that. I’m always in for seeing either of your getting your ass beaten. Also, your sons are fighting by the hall again.”

All of you turn towards the hall and indeed you can see lightnings shooting dangerously close to the wooden construction, accompanied by an occasional thunder.

Sif shots up.

“Modi!” She shouts and runs towards the hall.

You look at Thor who barely moves, seemingly unconcerned.

“You are not going?”

“Why, it’s her turn.” He shrugs. “Also, I wouldn’t pass the chance to have a beautiful woman on my lap a moment longer.” His hand caresses your waist and he leans to your ear, scratching it with his beard as he whispers. “Sif is too shy to openly admit it, but she is open to many things.” His other hand rests on your upper thigh.

You look the direction Sif ran, you cannot see her anymore and the lightings are still showing, indicating that she did not stop the fight quite yet. “Hmm..” You mutter, not all disagreeing.

His face gets dangerously close to yours, you can almost taste the mead on his lips. You would not have really kissed him... maybe. And even if you would, you haven’t got the chance, nails of a cold hand dig into your bare shoulder pulling you away from Thor.

“That’s enough.” Heimdall looks at you, his pretty face twisted in anger. You find yourself surprised how satisfying it felt, that finally he showed some feeling towards you.

He pulls you off Thor’s lap. The god of thunder lets out a mocking laugh, but you notice that he keeps his hand by his hammer’s handle. Heimdall’s attention is not on his brother, however, it’s on you. Finally, it’s on you.

“Clearly, my wife has drank too much and needs to sleep it off.” He backs away pulling you along away further from Thor. “That or she’s a shameless slut.” He hisses.

You roll your eyes but before you can give any bitter answer, he throws you over his shoulder. Which surprises you, you never saw him lift anything heavy before. You let out a laugh.

“I should disown you for treachery.” He continues his hisses, as he walks away with you. “Exile you on Midgard like All-Father’s late wife.”

Your laugh turns into gasps for breath, as your body rocks on his shoulder, unable to get air into your lungs. He seems to ignore your discomfort, however, in favor of continuing his gibbering. “Actually, you would like that, wouldn’t you? The slut you are, I will lock you in my room and leave you there, instead. Or better I will just kill you and feed you to Gulltoppr!” You didn’t even know Gulltoppr ate meat.

He moved fast, you left the town in seconds, the cabins disappearing before your eyes. It’s clear that he is not actually taking you to your room. Not that you mind, it’s not like you felt sleepy at the moment. You can’t see where he runs to, the distance between you and the town growing bigger and bigger. You’re sure you must be somewhere near the wall at this point.

Unfortunately, as you don’t share his gift of foresight, you’re completely unprepared for what comes next, as he throws you off his shoulder.

“And the worst is that you reek of him!”

“Hey-“

Before you know it, you are sinking into a frog filled lake, water filling your lungs, as you still scream, not quite yet realizing what had happened. You are sure you are drowning there, that he actually wants to kill you- never mind, you hit the ground soon enough and stand up, the water barely reaching your breast.

“Asshole.” You bark as you wade to him, trying and failing to brush algae from your hair and clothes with your hands.

“Good morning, I hope that sobered you up. Stay there, I don’t want you anywhere near my bed tonight.” He turns around, walking away. “You can use your time walking back by evaluating your actions and preparing the speech with which you will beg me for my forgiveness.”

You don’t hurry after him, as you consider his ‘leaving’ to be purely performative. But after a moment of him walking away and not looking back, doubt gets to you. You bit down your pride and run.

“Hey!” Running in the wet and muddied dress is not the most comfortable thing. “Heimdall! Stop!”

He pretends not to hear you.

“Maybe, if your head wasn’t so deep in your ass you would look into my mind and notice that I would not cheat on you!”

“Would I now?” He stops, his head turning back looking at you, his Bifrost eyes shine and you do your best to think about how much you wouldn’t betray Sif in this way. Specifically, Sif. You do not let your mind wander to anyone else. After all, he’s an asshole who threw you into mud.

“You’re such a cunt.” He breaths out in disbelief.

“And you’re an asshole!” You must have been a sight, you covered in algae and mud and Heimdall.. well, being Heimdall he’s always a sight, shouting at each other from a distance in middle of the night. “Why would you even care about what I do? You have barely spoken a word to me in weeks! I wake up alone see you only at dinner, before you leave again!”

“Oh, I care!” He throws his hands.

“Why?!”

You blink and suddenly he’s in front of you, standing so close you can feel his breath but not close enough to get his clothes dirty. “Because, my dear Y/N. You. Are mine. You know that right?”

“Maybe you should remind me more often then.” You hiss.

His eyes flicker again and then his lips twist in a smile. “I will.”

Before you know it, he’s at you, twisting your hands behind your back. He moves too fast for you to put up any significant fight and before you know it, you’re bend at your hips, your face pushed into a nearby willow.

You wonder if he knows that willows are one of your more symbolical powers. The trees holding your secrets and all that. If he knew that, then he had to know that you would not use your powers to stop him too - that you enjoy his attention too much to do that.

A slap on your ass breaks your train of thoughts. The pain it causes is anything close to unbearable, but you have a feeling more will follow and that it will get worse. Plus, the wet dress blocks most of the pain (and makes an amusing sounds when being hit). Heimdall must be watching your mind, because he pulls your dress up as soon as your think that.

“No.” He hits you again, it hurts more on a bare skin.

“Wife.” With each word he adds another slap.

“Of.”

“Mine.”

“Will.”

“Act.”

“Like.”

“A.”

“Common.”

“Slut.”

Each of the slaps hurt more and more, as your skin is already irritated. You press your forehead into the willow and took a deep breath, as he stops and steps away.

“Now, you disgrace of a wife. You can beg for my forgiveness.”

Yes. You could.

“Hm? No, sunshine. I don’t think I will.” You try your best to sound as cocky and bored as you can.

“Is that so?” He does not seem really angered by your answer, it seems like the real anger went away with him reading your mind or more likely, he enjoys the opportunity to hit you more. “That’s another ten then.”

He hit you again, a different spot this time, seemingly avoiding the most irritated skin. “I don’t know what I ever did to the All-Father that I have deserved such a disgrace to be cast upon me.”

He swings his hand as he talks, not keeping the rhythm with his words this time. He likely hit you more than ten times too. The pain stops being as a pinch and more like a stab and burn, spreading heat after every sharp hit. He keeps talking but you don’t really listen anymore.

Until finally after one especially hard slap, you can’t help it but yelp. That successfully makes him pause.

“Ready to beg for my forgiveness yet?” You consider it. Were you?

The time you take to answer clearly does not amuse Heimdall. “Well?”

You wonder if he would have begged you to apologize if you had refused to long enough. The thought earns you another hard slap on your ass, which clears your mind soon enough.

“Yes.” You try to turn around and he lets you, you look in his Bifrost eyes as you speak. “Forgive me, Heimdall. I would never really cheat on you with your brother.” You brush his cheek with your hand. “I just have no other way to get your attention these days. I would gladly sit on your lap and kiss you, if you would let me.” Maybe not in next few days but you would.

You lean closer to give him a kiss, but he stops you before you can.

“Yeah, no. I’m not fucking you covered in that.”

“And whose fault is that?”

“Yours, obviously.” As if afterthought he adds: “Whore.”

You spend the rest of the night accompanying him on his watch, holding his hand because as he put it ‘he can’t let you out of his sight’.

[magnusmodig]

||. an assortment of thoughts + headcanons concerning thor + previous relationships / his mentality surrounding ... being that one Resident Super Hot Guy :tm:

(none of these are fully fleshed out into words past these excerpts from my chats w a pal on discord... mostly, I just want to put them on the blog for later reckoning)

a. He was originally set to be betrothed to Lady Sif, though this was never really enforced or official so much as it was implied for as long as they've known each other. He'd have actually happily gone through with this if he hadn't met Jane??? but that's obvsly not what happened. He loves Jane and he would never choose another, ever.

b. Thor at no point ever expected he'd meet someone he'd fall in love with and trust with his heart, and he also sort of just… resigned himself to the fact that he won't marry for love, and that he WILL need to sire an heir whether he wants to or not (but he's super family coded so ofc he'd want kids of his own. It'd just suck for him a lot if it wasn't with someone he loves. he'd not blame the children for that, though.) / (more on that HERE)

c. Thor wasn't exactly a man-hoe or anything, but he is NOT a virgin in the slightest and lost that long before he met Jane, and this is from a variety of short relationships and the occasional fling… but when I say "short" and "occasional" I really do mean that… I don't think he'd get into relationships unless he felt there might be potential, but those never lasted more than a few days. He only would ever need those few to know if there could be something long-lasting.... (and usually they were done while he was out traveling the realms with the rest of his squad), I don't think he'd do flings and one-night-stands often but uh. Sometimes you really need a distraction and alcohol + s*x just kind of happen to go together in Thor's case bc he's an idiot and very careless with himself when it comes to… not being self-destructive. He'd find someone he okay with indulging, get drunk and have relations… but that said I think he'd always make it a point to treat those women nicely before, during, and especially afterwards, and he never left them high and dry bc that'd break his heart more than anything…. sooooo d. He's (unfortunately) used to being people's eye-candy and just kind of expects it at this point. When he's not perfect in the sense of "can do no wrong" or "a hero that always wins and can never be broken, no matter what comes his way", then it's just "he's so handsome and i boy am i having some Sinful Thoughts abt Prince Blondie over there" and thor just sort of …. He doesn't shrug it off, really. I think it actually makes him really uncomfortable. He just chooses to ignore it. Turn the other cheek, if you will, and give a wide berth and a blind eye, because in his mind there's nothing he can do about it =v=;;; To that end, he won't get terribly mad at anyone who does do express anything inappropriate towards him bc he DOES just expect it to happen. He reasons it away and elects to simply stay disengaged unless some lines are crossed. He does goes out of his way to dress modestly. Long sleeves when he can help it, always wearing some kind of shirt or tunic or armor, long pants (on earth, the most casual items of modern-day clothes he'll keep to are joggers. Never ever shorts.), boots, you name it. The most skin he feels comfortable showing are his arms w the sleeveless shirts but that's also partially out of it being easy to wear and great for training purposes. He actually doesn't like training w/o a shirt as an adult bc he has Learned ™️

e. Thor counts his flaws and ESPECIALLY whenever he sees or notices someone Oggling Him he'll go out of his way to remind himself of what they are. He's got a lazy eye that nobody comments on, his hair is darker than it was when he was a child, he's got callouses on his hands from the weapons he uses, when he was a child he had a gap between his front two teeth, he's got very thin scars from the occasional battle (not many, but they're there), - post!ragnarok there's also the addition of his lost right eye and eventual heterochromia … and he does it just to make a point to himself that he's .... not perfect, and if they can't spare the time to notice it then they're probably creatures to be wary of, in the long run

[storiedhistories]

carpemusa asked: Sif stood before the man, looking more than a little awkward given their history. Though, she was determined to commit to the fresh start they all needed so she offered him the parcel in her hands. "This bread is from the first grain harvest grown with the Vanir. I thought you should have some. For... Making it possible." For Kratos

Much had happened since the final battle in Asgard. Kratos had hoped that Atreus might stay for a time, but his son had gone off on a journey of his own, to find the rest of his people. He understood why Atreus had to go alone, but he still worried for his son, not knowing when he would see him again.

Kratos had instead focused his time on helping to rebuild from the war, traveling between the realms as necessary, routing out the remnants of Asgard, along with helping to literally rebuild. It had been a long time since he had picked up any tools other than instruments of war, but he offered what help he could.

Today, he'd been assisting in Vanaheim, Mimir chatting away as Kratos worked, something for which the god was grateful. He hadn't been able to find the words he'd wanted, but Mimir had no trouble filling the silence.

He looked up as Sif approached, inclining his head respectfully. She offered him what she carried, explaining that it was bread from the first harvest of grain. Kratos just looked at the parcel for a long moment before he met Sif's eyes once more. He accepted the gift, very aware how hard it likely had been for her to do such a thing, considering everything he had done.

"Thank you," he said, his voice a low rumble. "I am glad to see that you and your people are well." The Aesir and Vanir had been at war for some time, and he knew it had not been easy for either of them to put aside their differences, to embrace their similarities instead, but it appeared that they had managed to do so very well, if the current state of things was any indication.

"It seems Thrud is doing well in her training," he added, knowing that they shared a common interest in doing the best for their children (though that might not be the best subject to bring up with the Lady Sif, after all). He knew this was likely awkward for her, and he was trying to make amends, as impossible as that seemed.

[tricksterslady]

“You are radiant.” Lady Sif; @marvariants

"Thank you, my lady." Dahlia said with a small smile. Loki had asked her to wear his colors to tonight's feast, a silent reminder to all that she was his.

Dahlia had been nervous at first, but Sif's words put her at ease.

"I would love to stay and chat, but I am afraid, the Queen needs me."

[sifthebritisheco]

The Queen!

[lokiandbuckysdoll]

Gimme Little Sign

Summary: When you're invited to the annual ball in Asgard things get revealed between yours and Loki's close friendship. 

Paring: Loki X Reader 

Word Count: 2,107

Warings: Teeny weeny bit of Angst if you squint, pinning. Friends to lovers, Fluff. 

 Dividers: @silkholland​   

*Not beta read*

Tonight was the Agardian Ball, Thor and Loki had invited you to the event as their guest and you couldn't have been more happy. You were putting the finish touches on your hair as Lady Sif has enter your chambers.   " Might I say,  that dress looks divine on you Lady Y/N", she said as she gave you a bright smile . " Thank you Lady Sif, you look beautiful yourself".  The two of you chatted for a little while more before you made your way down to the ballroom. 

As you arrive at the ball you're automatically greeted by Frigga, " My dear,  you look very lovely tonight", Frigga says as she embraces you with a hug. " Thank you, your highness it's an honor to be here tonight" you bow as Frigga signals Thor to come over and say hello. " My Lady pop-tart, you look very gorgeous tonight!" he exclaimed with joy as he embraced you with a bear hug. " Goldie Locks!" you say smiling.  

" I shall leave you two to catch up, have fun tonight dear, let your worries go" Frigga says as she disappears into the crowd to find Odin. You and Thor chat for a little while before you feel someone put their hands over your eyes.

"Loki?"  You questioned, " The one and only my dear", your face automatically fills excitement as you turned around in his embrace " I missed you mischief " you wrapped your arms around his waist giving him a tight hug. As he pulls back she gets to fully take in the appearance of you. 

 Your hair was done in a traditional Asdargian hairstyle as well as your makeup, what makes his breath almost hitch in his throat is your gown. Not only are you dressed in his colors,  It's the way the gown fits your frame so beautifully and highlights everything wonderful about you. 

Loki can’t help but take a quick glance at how the built in corset made the top of your breast look divine.  " You look breathtaking and exquisite this evening darling" he takes your hand and gives it a kiss. “ You’re such a flirt but thank you,"  You take a monument to take in the sight of him, his beautiful raven curled hair dangling perfectly just going past his shoulders. 

As for his attire he wears an all black suit that makes him look enthralling. " You look rather exquisite yourself" you tease. " Thank you" he grins.   

"Care for a dance dear?" he extended his arm towards you "Yes, i would love too!" without hesitation you hook your arm with his as  you both head to the dance floor. The music begins to play and you both begin to dance.  

As the hours of the night passed by and it was getting closer to the end of the night, it felt like you had danced and drank with almost everyone here. You were getting ready to say your farewells, The sound of  the waltz began to play. 

" Loki?" you questioned with a mischievous smoke, " Alright fine will dance my dear, however this will be the last one, Alright?" he says in a calm tone. You nod your head as you place your hand out for him to take and make your way to the dance floor. 

Once the two of you reach the middle of the floor, he gently yet lovingly places his right hand on the small of your back, as his left fits perfectly  into your other hand.  Just then the song begins to fully play. You look up and get lost as your eyes lock with his angelic light green eyes. They looked chartreuse as the lighting hit them. 

You're not sure how long you stared into his eyes getting lost in them,  ever so the music fades and you are brought out of your trance by the sound of everyone  clapping. The two of you pull away from each other as you bow to one another and clap along with the others.  

 All of a sudden you felt this rush begin to overcome you, unintentionally you grab one of Loki's hands  " I don't feel so good" you place your  other hand to your forehead. 

 " Love, What's wrong!?" Loki gets  frightened as he takes his free  hand and lifts your face up slightly to see it begin to go pale. " Let's get some air"  he quickly  excuses the two of you out as he helps you walk to sit on the balcony. 

 As soon as the cool air hits your face you feel slightly better, Loki helps you sit down and he gently rubs your back." I'm sorry Loki'' he looks at you  with confusion, before he realizes it " You had some of Thor's Asgard mead again, didn't you?" you nodded with your head in the palms of your hands. 

" That mead is  too strong for you my dear" he carefully pulls you into his chest. " How about we call it night?"  You nod your head in agreement and he  helps  you up. 

As you arrive back to your chamber he awaits outside the door  as you get undressed and into your sleep wear. Once finished you open the door and gesture for him to enter. The two of you sit up against the headboard of the massive bed. 

 " How are you feeling dear?"  he plays with the strands of your hair that aren't pinned in your bun. " I feel a lot better, but I'm pretty sure I'll have a hangover in the morning" you let out a small laugh as you rest your head on his shoulder, Loki  lets out a small laugh of his own. 

The two of you sit in silence for a couple of minutes before he turns to face you more as he pulls out a mini box from his coat. " What's that?" You say with curiosity. " It's simply a gift for you, my little mortal, open it" he places the box in the palm of your hand.  

You give the box a quick look before  you open it,  you let out a gasp when you realize it's the Asgardian necklace you had been eyeing since your very first visit to Agardian. It was a gold heart shaped necklace, with little Asgardian diamonds surrounding the outline of it as a beautiful emerald stone sat in the middle of it. 

" Loki, you really didn't have to!" you say with shock and disbelief  " I love it but I really do, i can't accept this gift!" you look up to see his expression. " No, I want you to have it, a girl as beautiful as you deserves to have everything she truly desires"  he takes the necklace out of the small box and helps you place it on your neck.

 " Oh Loki you're too thoughtful, I don't deserve you" you  wrap your arms around his neck hugging him tightly. 

As you pull back from the hug you realize that the radio he had gotten you during your stay was playing one of your favorites songs `` Gimme Little Sign" by Brenton Wood. Loki notices " We can dance if you are feeling alright" he says looking at you knowing you'd want to dance.

 " Help me up please" without hesitation he picks you up bridal style and walks  the two of you to the middle of  the room. He uses his seidr to turn  the radio up as the song gets to your favorite part. 

"But if you need me, show me that you love me” 

“And when I'm feeling blue and I want you"  

" There's just one thing that you should do” 

“ Just gimme some kind of sign girl Oh, my baby, To show me that you're mine girl," Loki sang as  he looked into your eyes as he  gently swayed back and forth.  You couldn’t help but laugh at his expression as he sang yet you knew he meant every word that left his month. 

" All right If you don't want me, gimme little sweet talk If you don't want me, don't lead me on girl” 

“But if you need me, show me that you love me” you sang to him as You playfully pushed your finger into his chest, he just  stared at you with admiration in his eyes before slowly spun  you around and  dipped you down.    

You and Loki continue to dance and sing until the song ends.  " Well that was fun," he says grinning. " Oh you bet" You both stayed there in each other's embrace just looking at one another before Loki guestered to walk back to the bed. He helped  you lay down and pulled the blankets over you.  

He placed a gentle kiss on your forehead and began to make his exit out of your room.  Just before he does you call his name. 

 " Loki" he turns around " Yes darling". " Can you stay with me? Please?" You say reaching your hand out. " If that is what you wish" he walks to the small couch in the corner of the room. 

" Loki, what are you doing?" You question as he moves the pillows off the couch. " I'm staying with you"  He gestures towards the couch as if it's obvious. You slightly sit up and  pat the empty space on the bed 

" Here, it's more comfortable" you pull the blankets back. " Are you sure?" Loki questions. 

" Loki just get in the bed" you say in a tired voice. He makes his way to the bed but quickly changes into his sleep attire before laying down as well. Once he gets into a comfortable position, he puts a big body pillow in between you too for you to hug.

" I'll make you dream of bucky if you'd like, '' he says while pulling the blanket over him. His statement causes you to be confused. Why would he make you want to dream of bucky?

'' Why would i want to dream about bucky ?"  You questioned. 

" Well he is your object of desire after all" looked at you Waiting for your response yet all he got was a confused expression which made him confused as well.  “ Do you think I'm in love with bucky?” You move your body so you fully sit up against the headboard as Loki does the same. 

“ Well yes, I see the way the two of you interact with each other. Correct me if I'm wrong but I just assumed you two have something going on” He quickly glances at his hands and then glances back at you waiting for a response . 

You let out a small giggle which causes him to be confused tilt his head.  “ Oh my clueless  mischief, I do not find nor am I attracted to Bucky in any way. Yes we have a close bond but I see him as a brother and only that.”  

He  is completely shocked at your statement and confession, all this time he kept how he truly felt about you hidden because he thought you were interested in the Bucky.  

“ oh” He was able to say but before he knew it he looked back up at you and it all happened in a blink of an eye. You fist the front of his shirt and pull  him into a kiss. Loki was quick to place his hands on your head. 

The kiss was sweet and filled with passion. Your lips were the softest thing he ever felt, he could still taste the strawberries you had from earlier on your lips.  

“ You don't know how long I've been waiting to do that "  you say breathless trying to breathe. 

 “ Me to my loves , me too” He just smirked, his hands were still cradling your face.  

" I'm glad to finally be able to confess my feelings to  you Loki, I feel truly happy and safe around you" you say as  you tangle your right hand with his left hand holding it as you  look into his eyes yet again. 

 " can I tell you something? '' he paused before continuing "I feel truly myself and very comfortable around you Y/n and that makes me happy that you feel that way with me as well" you lean back into him to kiss  him yet again.

 " I'm glad, now does this mean we can finally court each other?” you smile.  

“ Oh my little mortal, I would love nothing more "he leaned down to kiss your forehead before he maneuvered the both of you to lay down in your previous positions.  

 "Good night my mischief " you placed a gentle kiss on his chest.  " Goodnight my lovely mortal, '' he kissed the top of your head before he wrapped his arms around you and both of you both dozed off into a slumber . 

Taglist💚

@vbecker10 @lokislittleprincess @hannibals-favourite-meal @huntress-artemiss @lokisgoodgirl @michelleleewise @missvelvetsstuff @justasecretwriter @peachyymallows @pigwidgeonxo @nana1000night

[just-another-blog-of-fluff]

Can't Keep a Secret

Word count: 4300

Warnings: tickling, fluff, reader with an inability to keep secrets, reader with a crush on a certain god of mischief

I'm so excited for 100 followers!! I didn't expect so many people to actually be interested in my writing when I started posting 🥰

This one is based on @atlas-of-the-universe's request here for a fic where Loki tickles the reader to get information of some kind 😉 I hope this is what you were looking for!

This one also has a little more crushing/romantic fluff than some of my other fics at the end, so if you're not into that just skip that part. As always, completely SFW!

* * *

No one ever seemed to do anything nice for Loki. So, when Thor approached you to ask if you’d help him and the others plan a surprise birthday party for his brother, you wholeheartedly agreed to assist. As the Avengers’ best party planner, you jumped at the chance to start brainstorming ideas to make this party the best Loki had ever experienced – including on Asgard. And, if it meant he’d pay a little extra attention to you, well… that was an added bonus.

The only problem was – you were terrible at keeping secrets.

It wasn’t as if you went around spilling the details when someone asked you not to tell the others about something. You knew enough not to just blurt out the fact that you were planning a party. Unfortunately, though, you had a tendency to let your feelings show in your facial expressions. Trying to keep secrets made you anxious, knowing you’d been the one to accidentally say just a little bit too much in the past and ruined other surprises.

The fact that you were the worst secret keeper was no… secret, for lack of a better word. Your teammates frequently exploited this fact when they wanted to know what you were hiding from them. Tony, especially, loved to talk circles around you until he could get you to trip up and give some detail away. On the other hand, they also tried not to let you in on too many details when they were planning a surprise for one of the other team members.

This time, you were determined not to give anything away. You were thrilled that the team was finally going to do something special for Loki, and you were NOT going to ruin it by spilling the beans to the trickster. Thor was probably one of the more trusting members of the Avengers, and he assured you when he asked you to help with the party that he had faith you wouldn’t screw up (quite literally in those words).

You started researching online to get some ideas. This party had to live up to the standards of an Asgardian prince, so you couldn’t just order a few pizzas and beer and call it a party. Plus, Tony had offered to pay for the whole thing (you suspected he felt guilty for having accidentally blasted Loki through a wall in the training room with his new Ironman suit the week prior) so your funds were basically limitless.

Inevitably, though, you were bound to run into situations where you had to spend time with the raven-haired god without allowing yourself to let any details slip.

The moment Loki first started to suspect you were hiding something was when he walked in on a conversation you were having with Thor in the kitchen. You had been asking him about the Asgardian mead his brother loved so much and wanted to know if he could manage to get some here on Midgard for the party.

“What is it about the Asgardian mead that you like so much better than standard alcohol?” you inquired curiously.

“Ha! That is a very funny question, Lady Y/N,” Thor laughed heartily. “As if any Midgardian liquor could so much as hold a candle to the spirits we drink on Asgard.”

“Hey! I enjoy my tequila! Margaritas are arguably a delicious alcoholic beverage,” you bantered.

“You truly believe this ‘margarita’ as you call it could compare to the smooth, sophisticated taste of an Asgardian mead?” Thor countered.

“I must agree with my brother on this one – I have seen this ‘margarita’ drink you speak of, and it is highly unlikely to be superior to Asgardian spirits.”

You gasped involuntarily when you heard Loki’s voice in the doorway, spinning around to face him with a look of bewilderment on your face. He cocked his head to the side, raising an eyebrow as he scrutinized your expression.

“Oh, hey Loki! Didn’t see you there,” you greeted, trying to lean casually against the counter you were standing beside.

“Yes… it appears you didn’t. You look as if you’ve seen a ghost.” Loki folded his arms across his chest, eyeing you intently. “What was it that brought you to the subject of Asgardian liquor?”

“Oh, that? Well…”

“I was just informing Lady Y/N that I have been feeling a bit nostalgic thinking about the celebrations we had on Asgard, when we would drink heartily with Lady Sif and the Warriors Three,” Thor cut in, quickly interrupting you mid-sentence. “Brother, you must recall the time you had a bit too much while drinking with us and…”

“I believe that’s quite enough nostalgia for one evening, dear brother,” Loki cut in, appearing almost frantic as he glanced quickly at you before turning back to glare at the elder Asgardian. “Stark asked me to inform you he requires your assistance in the laboratory. You’ll need to continue this conversation another time.”

“Ah, yes, alright then. Another time,” Thor agreed, winking at you before he exited the kitchen. Loki followed close behind, but not before giving you one last calculating glance before he crossed through the doorway and out of sight. You let out a breath of relief, hoping he hadn’t thought much of the conversation.

You noticed, though, that Loki started conveniently popping up around you more often after that incident. Maybe he didn’t want Thor to have the opportunity to tell you about whatever embarrassing story had occurred when they were younger, you thought. Regardless, it meant that you had to be extremely cautious about doing any planning for the party in any of the common areas.

The second time you nearly let something slip was during a hushed conversation in the training room with Peter after one of your sparring matches. He had pulled you aside after training to ask your opinion about whether he should ask his friend MJ to attend the party with him. He’d had a crush on the girl for quite some time, and now that she knew his secret identity he thought it might be time to introduce her to his Avengers family.

“I’m nervous she might not want to come, but I think it would be a great chance for her to meet everyone when the focus would be on someone else,” he explained. You hiked your backpack up onto your shoulder with your training gear and made your way toward the door to the training room with Peter by your side.

“Why wouldn’t she want to come? From what you’ve told me, she seems to be more of a social butterfly than you are, even,” you asked.

“Yeah… you’re right, I’m probably overthinking this, aren’t I?” he chuckled. “I just don’t want to screw things up!”

“What are you screwing up this time, spiderling?”

You stopped short as you heard Loki’s voice from behind you, making your heart leap into your throat. You turned around, trying not to look startled.

“Oh, Peter wants his friend MJ to attend… a training session with us!” you fibbed, trying to think quickly. “You know, so he can show her his Spider-Man moves!”

“Yeah! That’s right,” Peter agreed, nodding vigorously. “I’m going to go call her right now, thanks Y/N!” Peter scurried off down the hallway, leaving you standing with a somewhat skeptical looking god of mischief.

“Why was Peter asking you about inviting a friend to his training? Would he not have asked Stark?” Loki inquired. You shrugged in a non-committal way.

“Who knows? Anyway, uh, it was nice talking to you, but I’ve got to get going… big assignment to finish up tonight, can’t really stop and chat. See you later!” you blurted, not waiting for a response as you hurried toward your room. Phew, that was close, you thought to yourself, hoping he hadn’t been standing behind you for too long.

Later that week, you found yourself alone in the common room while watching television. You pulled out your laptop during one of the commercials and started searching the internet for caterers, hoping to find something fancy enough to appeal to an Asgardian god. You had thought that everyone else was out for the day, so you weren’t overly concerned about anyone seeing what you were doing.

“What mindless reality television show are you watching today?” The smooth, baritone voice caused you to jerk your head up from your laptop screen and instinctively slam it shut. He hadn’t even been standing behind you to see what you were searching – it was purely on reflex that you closed the computer. Loki raised his eyebrows at you. “I see you aren’t really watching anything, are you? What is it you were viewing on your computer?”

“Nothing! I mean, nothing exciting, really. Just some old photos that I was trying to sort through,” you stammered, standing up with the laptop clutched to your chest. “You can have the TV if you want, though. I have to go… work on that assignment some more. I was just taking a break. It’s almost done!” Loki opened his mouth as if to say something, but you didn’t wait around to let him ask any more questions that might make you give away something you shouldn’t. You spent the rest of the evening in your room, avoiding the trickster at all costs.

The next morning, after getting ready for the day, you grabbed some breakfast before heading back to your room to continue to do some additional party planning research where Loki wouldn’t walk in on you unexpectedly. You shoved the last bite of one of Thor’s pop-tarts that you’d stolen into your mouth as you approached your door, opening it and walking toward your desk where your laptop sat. You always left the door slightly ajar when you were in your room, and so you were quite surprised when you heard the door thump shut behind you, the lock clicking into place.

“You’ve been hiding something from me.”

You stopped dead in your tracks, your heart pounding in your chest. You turned around slowly, staring wide-eyed at the god of mischief now standing in your bedroom between you and your only exit. His hands were clasped behind his back, his blue-green eyes gleaming ominously as he stared you down.

“Oh, hey Loki! What brings you to my room?” you asked, trying to sound casual.

“Let’s end this little charade, hmm?” He took a few slow paces forward into the room, closing the distance between the two of you. “It’s become clear to me over the last week that you have knowledge of some information that you do not want me to become aware of. I’d like you to tell me what it is.” His tone was calm; low, but dangerous. You swallowed hard.

“Loki, I-I’m not sure what you mean. I don’t have any secrets.” You took a step back from the advancing Asgardian, your back meeting the cold, hard wood of your desk behind you.

“We can do this the easy way or the hard way. The choice is up to you,” he threatened, stepping even closer so he was only a foot away from where you stood trapped against your desk. “Tell me what it is you’re hiding, or I will… coerce you into talking.”

“Coerce me? Heh, what’s that supposed to mean?” you asked nervously, your hands gripping the desk behind you.

“I have my ways. I am the god of mischief, after all.” Loki stood in front of you unmoving, a barrier holding you hostage against your desk.

“Even if I did have something to hide, you wouldn’t hurt me. Your brother would kill you,” you warned.

“I never suggested I would hurt you, darling. I would never do such a thing.” He took the slightest step closer. “You seem tense. Am I making you nervous?”

“Very.”

“Good.” A smirk tugged at the corners of his lips. “Have you decided, then? Will we be doing this the easy way or the hard way?”

“I told you, I have nothing to hide,” you insisted.

“Very well then. We’ll do this the hard way.” Quickly, you darted around Loki toward the door, trying to make your escape. He was faster, though, catching you with an arm around your waist and dragging you back so your back was against his chest. “Tell me, darling…” he growled in your ear, making you shiver, “… are you… ticklish?”

“Wha-“ you opened your mouth to protest but stopped speaking as you felt gentle scratching on your side. You shook your head quickly, suppressing the giggles that were threatening to rise out of your throat. If you stood still long enough, maybe he would give up.

“Do you think you’re fooling me by not allowing yourself to laugh? I felt you tense up immediately the moment I touched you.” He tightened his grip, wrapping both arms around your waist and digging his fingers into your sides. You snorted at the sudden sensation, doubling over to try to fight your way out of his grasp. “As I suspected. You are extraordinarily ticklish.”

“S-shut up, Loki!” you demanded, your muscles relaxing as his fingers stilled against your sides. He released you, allowing you to turn and face him but still standing in between you and the door.

“Now then – are you going to tell me what it is you’re hiding? Or do I need to tickle you until you are begging for mercy?”

You felt your face flush with heat. You’d been tickled before, certainly, but only for a few seconds at a time, and never as a means to pry information from you. Truthfully, though, you were enjoying this playful side of Loki. You were also determined not to tell him about the party – it would be so much more fun if it were a surprise, and he deserved to have fun. You braced yourself, folding your arms defiantly across your chest.

“There’s nothing to tell.”

Before you could react, Loki had tackled you, and you found yourself flat on the floor with your wrists pinned over your head. Your heart hammered against your ribcage as the dark-haired Asgardian loomed over you, his smirk growing wider.

“I see you’ve made your choice, then. But I should warn you – I don’t do mercy.” The fingertips of his free hand connected with your belly, lightly tracing the soft skin through your shirt. You turned your head so you wouldn’t have to look at him, his knowing stare making it more difficult to prevent yourself from laughing. Slowly, he applied more pressure until he was clawing at your belly with all five fingers, varying between the center and sides and analyzing your expression to evaluate your response.

“I-I’m telling y-you, t-there’s nothing to t-tell,” you insisted, jolting a little each time his fingers found a particularly sensitive spot.

“Unfortunately, I don’t believe you.” He shifted his attack to your side, his fingers spidering gradually up your ribcage. Your nerves were alight with ticklish shocks, helpless giggles now bubbling out of your chest.

“W-whyhyhy don’t you believe mehehe?” you asked, your tone starting to sound more desperate.

“You’re not exactly subtle. It’s rather obvious when you’re trying to keep a secret.” Loki was now scratching in between your upper ribs, and your giggles were evolving into desperate laughter. “I see this is becoming more challenging for you. I wonder – should I try to identify all of your weak spots? Surely one of them will get you talking.”

“NOHOHO LOKI!” you pleaded, thrashing to try to free your wrists from his grasp.

“You’ll need to provide me some information, then. What was it you were really discussing with my brother the other night?”

“HE TOHOHOLD YOU!!” You shrieked as Loki’s fingers found purchase under one of your arms, your feet pounding against the floor in desperation.

“Honestly, Y/N, I didn’t believe a word either of you said.” His fingertips grazed the underside of your upper arm, tracing from your elbow down to your underarm and back up again. You hadn’t realized how ticklish the soft skin of your arm could be, but his maddeningly light touch had you writhing to try to evade his fingers.

“STAHAHAP THAT!” you begged, yanking at your restrained wrists to try to lower your arms. Even before you were in this weakened state, the god of mischief was stronger than you.

“Then talk.”

“NEVER!”

“Aha!” he exclaimed suddenly, lifting his fingers away from your arm. You sucked in air desperately, letting out the residual giggles as he allowed you a moment to recover. “You ARE hiding something! You’ve given yourself away.”

“I… but… no I didn’t!” you pouted. He chuckled, a genuine grin spreading across his face at your adorable, disappointed frown.

“It’s too late now. You may as well tell me your secret.”

“I won’t tell! I’ll never tell!” you barked, a sudden surge of bravery rushing through you.

“I’m afraid I must continue, then,” he stated, feigning pity. “Why don’t you tell me where else you are ticklish instead?”

“What? No! I won’t tell you that either!”

“Fine. It’s much more amusing for me to locate your weak spots myself anyway.” Loki released your wrists and in the same motion reached behind him to squeeze above your knees with both hands. You yelped at the unexpected touch, trying with difficulty to sit up now that your arms were free. You reached toward Loki’s sides to try to retaliate but he was too perceptive, grabbing a wrist in each hand using his cat-like reflexes. “You don’t want to do that, darling,” he warned.

“Oh, but I think I do,” you argued, trying your hardest to break free of his grip. He wrestled with you for a moment, successfully forcing you onto your stomach so you could no longer sit up and try to counterattack.

“Now then – where were we?” he huffed as he sat himself down on the back of your legs, pinning you in place. You lifted your upper body up onto your elbows and turned to look at him, keeping a close eye on his hands. “Ah, that’s right. You were about to tell me what you were discussing with the spiderling the other day.”

“No I was-“ your retort died in your mouth as Loki’s fingertips touched down on the backs of your knees. “L-Loki, hold on, don’t you even think about it.”

“Why? Too sensitive?” he teased, tracing one finger along the tendon in the back of your knee. You let out a squeal, only egging him on as he began to flutter his fingers against the thin skin there.

“LOKI I WILL KIHIHILL YOHOHOU!”

“You hardly sound threatening when you’re giggling like a child,” he taunted, tracing along the skin on the inner sides of your knees. You reached back desperately with one hand while holding yourself up with the other elbow, trying to grab hold of his tickling fingers. He snickered at your feeble attempts, reaching up quickly to slide his fingers under your arm so your elbow would buckle beneath your torso before returning his attention to your knees. “This could all stop if you’d just tell me what your secret is.”

At this point, you’d come to the embarrassing realization that you were actually having fun, despite your abdominal muscles aching from laughing so hard. You were also still determined to keep the party a secret, if not for you then for Loki’s own good. You picked yourself back up onto your elbows so you could turn and look back at him defiantly.

“No!” you declared.

“No? I see I must not be trying hard enough, then. Let’s try somewhere else, shall we?” Loki shifted his weight so he could pin your legs down with his shin, his gaze turning down toward your socked feet.

“Don’t… you… dare!” you warned, noticing where his line of sight was directed. He placed his fingertips teasingly against the soles of your feet, maintaining eye contact with you, eyes glowing with mischief.

“I’ll give you one final chance. Spill,” he ordered. You merely smirked back at him.

“Make me.”

Without another word, Loki sprang back into action, his torturous fingertips skimming along the soles of your feet. Frantic giggles spilled from your lips as you tried jerking your feet away from his touch without success.

“I’d wager you’re regretting what you said now, aren’t you?” he goaded, scratching under your toes with one finger on each foot. Your giggles pitched up as you curled your toes to prevent him from reaching the sensitive skin. “Are you prepared to talk now?”

“NEHEHEVER!!” you screeched, still determined to win. Eventually he’d get tired of this and give up, right?

“Then I’m afraid you leave me no choice.” You practically screamed in ticklish agony as his fingers once again connected with your ribs, darting rapidly up and down your sides and under your arms, scribbling into the small of your back, fluttering against the sides of your neck and behind your ears, never staying in one place long enough to grow accustomed to the sensation. Your laughter fell silent as you tapped your hand hard on the floor, signaling you were giving up. Seeing your signal, Loki’s fingers stilled against you, still pressed gently into your sides as a warning that he could start right back up again at any moment. “Talk.”

“I will… alright… just… just give me a sec,” you huffed, your chest heaving with exertion. Your mind was racing, trying to come up with a plausible lie that would satisfy the god of lies. Your heart sank as you realized you couldn’t possibly come up with something in the next ten seconds that would fool him. It had to be the truth. “I’ll tell you, but you have to swear to me you won’t tell your brother that I told you.”

“That depends on what it is you’re about to tell me,” Loki bantered.

“No, I’m serious!” Loki shifted so his weight was no longer pressed on your legs, and you turned over into a seated position on the floor. “Promise me you won’t tell.”

“Fine. I promise. Now tell me.” You took a deep breath.

“We’re planning a party. For you. It was supposed to be a surprise.”

Loki was silent for a moment, his expression unreadable. His blue-green eyes searched yours as if trying to find any hint of a lie in your face. His face softened a bit as he began to realize you were actually telling the truth.

“What for?” he asked, his tone flat.

“For your birthday.”

“We don’t celebrate birthdays on Asgard, we have far too many of them to be excited for them.”

“Ugh, Loki, don’t you get it? Thor wanted to do something nice for you! I wanted to do something nice for you!” You held his gaze, trying to prove to him you still weren’t lying.

“You wanted to do something for me?” His voice was low, but there was something different about his tone; something you hadn’t heard before. Hope? Excitement? You averted your gaze down to the floor, poking at the fibers in the carpet with your finger.

“Yeah, I did. You deserve something nice. You’ve come a long way since New York. And you’re… a good friend.” You felt heat rush to your face. You’d nearly revealed another secret, one you had no intention of telling him today. Or ever. Unfortunately, Loki was perceptive.

“That sounded like another lie, Y/N,” he stated ominously. You risked a glance up at him, seeing a smirk slowly spreading across his face.

“What?! No, it’s not!” you argued, the warmth in your face spreading to your ears.

“Haven’t you learned not to lie to me by now?” Loki suddenly grabbed hold of your waist, dragging you closer to him. “Or do I need to repeat the lesson?” His fingers latched onto your ribcage, squeezing and kneading with maddening precision. Still exhausted from the previous attack, you immediately caved.

“ALRIGHT, ALRIGHT! I like you, ok??” Loki stopped tickling you, not yet releasing you from his grasp. You covered your flushed face with your hands. “Happy now?”

Loki pried your hands gently away from your face, tilting your chin up with his finger. His eyes were softer than you’d ever seen them before as he gazed at you, a small smile on his face. With a surge of confidence, you closed the gap between your faces, pressing your lips to his. He kissed you back, gently but passionately all at once. When he finally pulled away, he grinned at you.

“Yes, I am happy,” he said simply. You smiled shyly back at him.

“Good.” You hardened your expression a bit, although admittedly it was hard to wipe the smile off your face. “You still have to act surprised. I can’t have people thinking I can’t keep a secret.” Loki laughed at that, his voice rumbling in his chest.

“But you can’t, darling.” He gave you one last poke in the side, eliciting a whine from you. “I’ll do my best to act surprised. I am the god of lies, after all. I should be able to put on a convincing display.”

“Good.” You allowed him to help you to your feet before shooing him out the door. “Now, get out of my room. I still have planning to do.”

“Alright, alright,” he chuckled, stopping in the doorway to look at you. “I’ll go, but only if you’ll have dinner with me tonight.”

“Only if you don’t tickle me,” you countered.

“Sorry, love, but I can’t make any promises,” he replied, winking. You sighed, smiling at him.

“I guess I’ll take my chances then.”

[okiedokievariantloki]

Part 2: Thor Novelization Boogaloo: Loki and the Genocide of Jotunheim

So, if you haven’t read it already, you might want to go back to Part 1 here.

I spent a bunch of time highlighting this novelization for research purposes (I plan to write some stories about our tricksy boy at some point) and while I know it’s Thor’s story (which has some interesting bits to be sure, especially depending on who writes him), there’s some really intriguing Loki content here, and it speaks volumes just how much is actually cut out of the book versus the movie.

I’m actually going to start off this entry with some of the information provided at the end of the book (”A Guide to Asgard & More”)

First, there’s Odin, whose description is literally: “is king of Asgard and the mightiest of the Asgardians.”

Like, I don’t know about you, but that comes across as rather sus, my friends. Nothing about his family, who he cares about, his oft-spouted “peace”.  Nope. Power.  That’s it.

There’s Queen Frigga: “Mother to both Thor and Loki. Her greatest attributes are beauty, Asgardian strength, and great patience.”

I mean, other than (gag) offering her appearance as being one of her main characteristics, sure, ok, she’s strong and very patient (anyone would be to put up with the rest of the shenanigans that Odin and her kids are constantly up to). She’s also described as a mother- an involved parent.  Where Odin is basically just like “IM KING BEYOTCHES” The queen seems to have at least some priorities that don’t focus on holding onto power.

Then we get to Thor, who is “Asgard’s greatest warrior, son to Queen Frigga and King Odin Allfather, and brother to the trickster known as Loki.  He is Prince of Asgard and is next in line for the throne.  Thor’s closest friends and most trusted allies are the Warriors Three, Lady Sif, and Loki.”

Here we learn more (Frigga gets top billing, which is refreshing), especially how Thor and Loki relate to one another.  It’s pretty telling that Loki, while being called a trickster is also considered a “closest friend and most trusted ally.”

Then we get to Loki’s entry: Loki, the Master of Magic, knows deep down that the throne of Asgard will never belong to him. Often the voice of reason to his brother Thor, Loki is the one who summons Odin to save them, the Warriors Three, and Lady Sif from the grave threats on Jotunheim, though Loki’s motives might not always be completely honorable.

Just to break this down a little.  Loki’s billed as “Master of Magic,” which means that his magic is strong and a defining trait. 

I do find it interesting that it specifically skirts around his actual parentage/throne and just specifically says that Asgard’s throne won’t be his.  Also, the way it sounds in Thor’s description is that Thor, by the virtue of being eldest, is the one getting the throne, but there’s some interesting phrasing later on in the book that makes it pretty obvious that’s not the case.

The fact that Loki (billed as a trickster in Thor’s entry) is also considered the voice of reason, it is very interesting they also note that he “might not always be completely honorable.”

To extrapolate from that phrasing, it means that he is likely always honorable to some extent, it’s just that his motives are sometimes not aligned with that of Thor/Odin.  Which, considering that he is the voice of reason....might not be a bad thing?  Plus, it is pretty obvious that the motives of most of the Asgardians are that of glory in battle, delighting in violence, and using heavy-handed displays of machismo to gain and hold onto power.  Loki grows up under this kind of socialization, so it goes to show that he might pick up on some of those cultural lessons, but figure out different ways to use them since his power seems to be more scholarly/magical than sheer brawniness.

Over and over again we see that many of Loki’s end goals are actually very similar to that of Odin and Thor.  But he is regularly derided and attacked for going about it in a way they don’t approve of (ie: making plans, using magic, gathering allies, and influencing people to get what he wants instead of calling some massive one on one duel to the death in a coliseum with spears).

Another section details information on the Casket of Ancient Winters:  “While there are many dangerous items inside the vault, the Casket of Ancient Winters is the most feared.  Taken from the realm of Jotunheim by Odin to prevent the Frost Giants from taking over the Nine Realms, it has the power to cause instant and never-ending winter.

Ok, that sounds pretty horrifying, right? It’s a weapon! It could hurt people! Odin had to take it away for the good of peace, right? RIGHT?!

NOPE! IT WAS THE APOCALYPTIC DESTRUCTION OF THEIR ENTIRE WORLD!

Here’s what the book has to say about Jotunheim: “The Realm of Jotunheim was once full of stunning cities built entirely of ice.  After Odin took the Casket of Ancient Winters, the once beautiful buildings began to crumble and melt.  Now most of the land has floated away in large chunks.  The Frost Giants wander the desolate and lonely landscape, angry and thirsting for revenge against Asgard- and their king, Odin Allfather.

Ok, so imagine you live in a world with your own cities, culture, and society, and some asshole comes to your world and basically takes away all of your technology murders the majority of your people, and destroys your world so badly that your entire people are now homeless in a wasteland with no opportunity to rebuild?  How many children died of starvation on Jotunheim? Did Odin steal and then sell or “adopt” out other Frost Giant babies to Asgardian families or sell them to other worlds as slaves?

From Ragnarok, you can see that there’s some pretty damning evidence that Odin built Asgard using slavery, so it’s quite possible that they had no trouble using Jotuns in a similar manner:

Are we actually supposed to believe that they are happy about that? There’s a truce, sure, but did Asgard go to help the other ice giants that were affected by the complete destruction of their world? Nope.  They were literally subjected to genocide and the last stragglers were left to die slowly.  If the situation had been reversed, I imagine that Asgard would consider themselves justified in trying to retaliate against Jotunheim.  But since they’re big, blue, “monstrous” etc....well, that makes it ok according to Odin.

I find it really interesting that the book doesn’t include a scene where Loki turns blue and finds out about his parentage, so that’s really interesting as well. This is turning into a bit of a novel, so I’ll save that bit for Part 3.

Thanks to everyone who liked and reblogged and chatted about Part 1. I hope you like my thoughts, and as always, I love to hear what you think about how the text informs the films.

[marvelsimp97]

Beauty and the Beast (Loki x Reader) Part Eight

Summary: (Name) grew up in a small village in Vanaheim. When she was a small child barbarian men attacked the village and most of the people remembers a beast which killed the barbarians. No one remembers where the beast came or where it disappeared. (Name) knows the beast however, like no one else. Now, after fifty years, Prince Thor of Asgard visits the village searching for a maid who wouldn’t get scared of his brother and who would make sure that the younger prince would get up in time and would attend to the events and meetings he needs to. The blonde arrives right after (Name)’s father throws her out and tells her never to return. (Name) is in need of a roof above her head and money so she accepts the offer because well, she doesn’t really have a choice.

Word count: 2876

Warnings: fluff

'How could have that happened?!' roared Odin in his study. You stood with your shoulder under Loki's left arm trying to keep him upright. He was still weak but you knew he was only pretending so he could annoy you. Therefore you had to listen to the All-Father's raging since... thirty minutes.

That question left his lips at least seven times already as the Captain of the Einharjar tried to explain what happened. The same man you saw Loki talk to so many weeks ago, Wirn was his name you got to know during this meeting. Frigga was present too but the room was otherwise full of men.

'This is my fault...' Loki sighed keeping his voice quiet.

'No, Loki.' you replied back. 'You could not have known they would capture her.'

'They must have found a weak point on the palace walls surrounding the actual palace.' he shook his head barely visible.

'Look, you cannot control everything, okay?' you furrowed your eyebrows. 'You can do against it by figuring out a plan to rescue her. That is the only thing you can do right now. And besides I am certain that they want to trade her for something otherwise they would not have bothered with getting in and taking her.'

'I swear you worth way more than half the men present here.' your Trickster huffed with a smirk on his thin lips. 'That is why I find you so fascinating, love.'

'Stop it, Loki!' you hissed with a blush covering your face making him chuckle quietly.

'Loki? Do you not have anything to add?' boomed the All-Father drawing everyone's attention to the two of you. You saw how half the captain and lieutenants found your love pathetic for still being weak from the injury but you knew they would've died on the battlefield from the poison Loki survived.

'I think that the barbarians wish to trade her for something they want from us.' he replied not showing how irritated he was from the pitying and judging gazes he got on his form. 'Mostly they must want gold... but we should wait a little in case they decide to reveal their motives.'

'What if the princess gets murdered while we are waiting?!' gritted his teeth a blonde man impatiently.

'They would not have broken in and taken her if they wanted nothing in exchange.' rolled his blue eyes Loki irritated of these stupid men. The other half of the men nodded in agreement. They finally made a plan, okay, Loki made the plan everyone else just listened reluctantly or agreeing. It was way past midday when you got out of Odin's study. You could feel how tired your prince was so you put him back in bed and quickly went for your meals. On the way you met Sarun and Tarth but told them that you had no time to chat so they let you go on your way.

You noticed how happy both of them were and you were happy for them. Sarun deserved to find someone nice after how that guy, some Olän or Oläg or something dumped him because well... the bastard had a family all the while he was sleeping with your best friend. But somebody did stop you. He was blonde and blue eyed, and a prince, Loki's older brother, Thor. He put a hand on your shoulder and looked deep into your eyes suspicion shining in them as he squinted at you.

'Why are you concerned if I have feelings for Lady Sif?' asked blatantly the blonde prince. Your eyes widened and you gulped smiling innocently up at him.

'I am noooot!' you waved with your hand.

'I know you are!' shook his head Thor. 'Loki asked me. He said you wanted to know.'

'I am going to kill your brother, with all due respect.' you forced a smile on your face. 'Why are you asking, Thor?'

'Do you have feelings for me?' asked back the blonde. You sighed and shook your head.

'No, but I know you have feelings for Lady Sif.' you poked his chest making his eyes widen and quickly he looked away from you trying to hide the slight blush. You smirked mischievously and continued. 'And as I saw, you never realized she has feelings for you too.'

'Why are you concerned with that?' huffed the elder prince.

'Because I want to help, you oaf.' you groaned but immediately slapped your hand over your mouth in realization that you just called the crown prince, the one to take over the throne one day an oaf.

'You are indeed spent all of your time with my brother.' Thor chuckled and ruffled your hair with his large meaty hand. 'You know, he only talks about you, (Name). I never saw him as happy as he is now with you at his side. Never let him deceive you with his words if he refuses you. He will think he is protecting you from... something.'

'From himself? I know he is a Frost Giant.' you replied. 'He told me... showed me and there is nothing which can scare me away from him. I might even... love him.' you looked down blushing. You knew how true these words were and you were happy to say it. But you knew you needed to say it to him not anyone else.

'Tell him that before he starts to over think everything and starts to draw away. Someone else let that happen a long time ago and he only got deeper in the pit he dug for himself.' smiled at you sadly Thor. 'I did not realize that until he let that spear go and fell off the Rainbow Bridge. But it is too late for me to reach out for him. You know, what I saw in you when I visited Vanaheim and we first met? I saw that you were special. I saw that you could change something within the palace. That you can bring a new era to Asgard.'

'But I am just a-'

'You are more than you think. Way more, (Name).' replied Thor before saying you his goodbyes and left to his meetings. You were different in a way, you were a beast. But you thought you could only bring death and disaster, destruction. You wished that you will be able to keep that part of you behind your skin. You stood there alone in the middle of the hallway more than you thought and so you had to make your way to Loki's chambers half running half walking.

He questioned you why you came so late but you only revealed that you met Thor on the way and he asked you about the questions Loki pointed to him. You scolded the dark haired prince for being so indiscrete but you still wanted to show Sif that the blonde oaf was reciprocating her feelings. However you had a more urgent case: bringing back Princess Astrina.

Time skip~

Two days passed since the council agreed on a plan to get the princess out of the barbarians' hands. Loki now could walk around like before even if he still hissed in slight pain when he leaned down or moved the wrong way. You planned on telling him what happened with the barbarians back in your home town in Vanaheim.

He was a good sorcerer, one of the best maybe if you told him your problem he could find a solution or something. But there was a chance that he would be disgusted that a beast like you, were so close to him. You sighed as you ran a hand through your hair which was let out from the ponytail you wore all day. It was afternoon, the sun slowly descending to the sea. You just changed into your leather pants and white linen shirt to go into the capital. You wanted to look for something, anything that would hold your interest or just to pass time. There was a knock on your door making you roll your eyes. Who the hell wanted anything from you again? When you were already on your break? You sighed again and went to the door opening it to reveal Loki standing there in his riding clothes and boots. You narrowed your eyes at him.

'Why are you in your riding attire?' you asked but only noticed the armour-y accents to his outfit.

'Thor and I will depart now with the Warriors and Lady Sif with a handful of guards to retrieve Princess Astrina.' he replied confused like he expected you to know.

'In this condition?! You go nowhere like that!' you cried out in anger and worry.

'I am fine, (Name).' replied the raven haired prince narrowing your eyes.

'No, you are not! I saw you limping in your room and hissing in pain! What if you get more injured?!' you protested. You wanted to hide your worry behind anger but as your face got more and more heated you had to realize that the burning in your eyes will not go away forcing the tears to the surface. You thought back to the day the nurses placed him on his bed lying unconsciously. 'What if I... lose you?!' you whispered because your voice was weak.

You felt arms wrap tightly around you and pull you into his firm chest. You smelled his pine and fresh spring-water scent while he smelled like forest after a heavy rain also. It was soothing you and since the kiss he stole from you, you wanted to feel his embrace, feel his touch on your skin. Your circled your arms around his waist and buried your face into his chest deeper.

'I will come back uninjured. We are only going to arrange a false peace-treaty. That is my plan, you heard it on the meeting.' he pulled away just to cup your cheeks in his hands to look you in the eye.

You stared into his eyes knowing he was telling the truth but you felt odd. You felt like there was going to happen something wrong and you had to stop it. You knew the barbarians will not let them get back uninjured that those men were ruthless and rotten to the depth of their souls. You narrowed your eyes before saying:

'I am coming with you.'

Silence engulfed you as his black eyebrows drew together in confusion and worry. You knew he was going to protest and will never let you come along but you had to make sure he was safe.

'No, you are not, darling.' he shook his head. 'It is too dangerous for you.'

'I have to show you something.' you replied determined. 'In private. I only trust you to show it.'

Loki nodded and led you down the hall by grabbing your hand. The two of you walked past the training field, the corridors and halls of the palace to narrow, dark corridors until you reached a simple wooden door. He waved his hand in front of it evoking golden sparkles dance from top to bottom on its surface. He pushed it open and led you into a back garden. It was facing the mountains of Asgard, the mountains which were shining at their peak with fresh snow. Your breath got caught in your throat as you realized that this wasn't just a garden. It was a large pillar extending towards the abyss below. On the left there was a waterfall falling into the abyss roaring like a lion. Small patches of green were decorating the cliff on the opposite side of where you were standing. On the pillar different kind of beautiful flowers were growing under a large tree with snow white foliage.

'My mother kept my lessons here a long time ago. She taught me magic here.' Loki said smiling at you. 'It is still so beautiful. I come here often if I need some privacy.'

'I have never seen anything so gorgeous...' you breathed looking around admiring the sight.

'So? You wanted to tell me something.' reminded you the prince. You nodded and turned towards the end of the pillar pointing to the abyss. You swallowed hard knowing you had to do this no matter how scared you were. Panic always helped you change and falling into the abyss will scary enough.

'Just watch and you will see.' you said before taking off towards the abyss. Loki cried out in protest but his hand couldn't reach you as he reached after you. Your heart was beating so fast in your chest but excitement was circling in your veins. You reached the end of the cliff while you heard Loki calling after you in fear for your life. You wanted to laugh but you were too occupied with showing him your true self. You kicked yourself off the cliff at the edge and dived into the depth below arms spread wide open. Wind was blowing into your face and hair as you were falling rapidly. It was soothing in a way but frightening. You closed your eyes and reached back into your soul. When you opened your eyes again they were (f/c) and your pupils were only black slits. You felt your arms and legs turn into dragon legs with large claws, your wings springing free from your back and your face change into a dragon's muzzle. You grinned with your sharp and edgy teeth as you turned upwards and kicked yourself high into the air.

You flied higher and higher until you got out of the abyss. You let your body stop in the air when you shot out of the abyss. As you stopped the sun made your scales shine like (f/c) jewels. You turned to where Loki was standing with his jaw dropped, blue eyes wide with his legs grounded to the grass like there were roots connecting him to it. You landed gently on the large cliff and circled around him watching him turn to you. You reached out with your mind knowing he was able to hear you.

Hi, Loki! you projected to him making the prince jump in surprise.

(Name)?! he cried out in surprise and disbelief. I thought you are going to die! How could you do that to me?!

You told me that you are a Frost Giant and I could not hide this from you anymore. you said expressing how hard it was for you to show him your true self. I said the guards of my hometown killed the barbarians back then but... that was all me. I panicked as a child and that day I realized what I was. I do not know if it is a curse or completely me but I want to use this for good.

You are beautiful... no matter in which form... he replied still in awe. You chuckled and leaned down with your long neck so you were on eye level with him. You projected a thought to him to pet you and so he reached out a hand and you pushed your nose into his cold hand. His slender fingers brushed along your scales as he observed you. I thought dragons were extinct. It is a miracle... you are a miracle, (Name).

Maybe I am the last one of my kind with my mother dead.

You never told me about your family.

My mother was the most beautiful woman I have ever seen and the kindest. She had a beautiful voice... as of my father... he is a drunkard and always made me work instead of him on his fields. Thor brought me here right after my father kicked me out of my home. you replied. Your eyes widened suddenly remembering the time you first stepped into Asgard. Heimdall knew your name because your mother was escaping Asgard when you were just an infant. Maybe your mother was Asgardian and you had siblings here who could give you answers to your many questions.

We will find them. smiled at you Loki reassuringly. Would you mind changing back now? We need to depart.

You projected to him that you understood and pulled back from him. Your dragon form was engulfed by a bright light before your normal body emerged from it. You jumped at Loki hugging him tightly.

'You are not disgusted of me...' you breathed.

'How could I?!' he grabbed your face and kissed you passionately. You melted into his lips as your heart flattered in your chest.

Time skip~

You sat behind Loki on his black stallion called Aemis as you were riding through the capital to the outskirts of the Asgardian fields, into the dangerous forests. Thor and the others tried to tell the two of you that you would be in danger but Loki told could convince them that you were a skilled fighter, which you were in a way.

It was a long way to the barbarians and you could only hope that Astrina was alright. You had an intuition that she could take care of herself but you were grateful to her for pushing you towards Loki. You already took care of barbarians once and you will take revenge for the loss Hemnor suffered back then again.

To be continued...

[allystyles1]

the walk to the lake-Loki Laufeyson x reader (daisy series-part 1)

hi people! i've been wanting to write a series for a while and i finally got some insparation to do it so here we are, i hope you like it as much as i do. happy reading!

my main masterlist is here!

series masterlist is here!

"y/n, are you ready?" Sif knocked on your door while you put on your shoes, ready to go out with your small group of friends.

"Yes, come in!" you answered and she opened the door, closing it back immediately after coming inside.

"Are you okay?" you looked at her with a questioning face, wondering why she seemed so... nervous?

"Yes yes, i'm fine. I'm just, excited for today." Well that was new. There wasn't anything particular to be excited about today, you were going to go to the garden with the princes like you did nearly everyday and chat.

"Can i ask why?"

"It's just, you know, it's the king and queen's anniversary next week and Thor still doesn't have a date. I was hoping he would maybe ask me today." she grinned. Oh yes, the fierce Lady Sif, one of the best warriors in Asgard, had a crush on the golden haired prince. A big one.

"Well i hope he does, i'll make sure to leave you alone with him for a while. We'll just say we're going to get drinks or something with Loki." you suggested with a smile making her jump in happiness.

"Thank you soooo much y/n, you're the best friend in the world!" she hugged you tightly making you chuckle.

"Well i try to be. And there's nothing i'd like to see more than two of my dear friends being happy." you both smiled as she let go of you.

"Okay, now we should go. They said they'd be waiting outside for us." Sif pulled you out of your room excitedly from your hand making you chuckle.

"Calm down Sif, you're going to trip over something." You walked to the garden together, hand in hand, and waved at the boys when you saw them talking about something which seemed important from the looks on their faces as they sat on some soft cushions. Loki had a really serious face on but his expression softened when he saw you. He waved back at you while smiling before turning back to his brother and telling him to talk about whatever it was later from what you heard.

"Hey boys, i hope we didn't make you wait for too long." you smiled as you pulled your hand out of Sif's grasp and sat down next to Loki. I guess you could say he was your favorite prince, the raven hair that was always carefully styled and the beautiful green eyes had an impact on you from the second you first saw him years ago when you were just a child.

"It's fine, it's only been like half an hour so no, not for too long." Thor smiled and Sif sat next to him with blushing cheeks.

"I'm glad." you put your head on Loki's shoulder, it was something you guys always did so he didn't even care, he was used to it.

"Your shirt is soft." you commented looking up to see Loki's face.

"Well mother did say she had it made from the best fabric." he smirked.

"You had to show it off didn't you?" you smiled and his smirk only grew wider. You heard Thor clear his throat before he spoke.

"Did you guys want to do something special? Mother said dinner would be ready in a few hours and she expects to see you ladies there too. We can hang out until then." Thor first looked at you and then Sif.

"It doesn't really matter, we can just chat here. Did you have anything in mind?" Sif asked.

"We thought we could walk to the lake together. It's really nice there, i want you to see it too." Loki answered her question and Sif's face lightened with excitement.

"Yes of course, we'd really like that. Right y/n?" You nodded, confirming you wanted to go there too.

"Sure, let's go." you smiled and Loki stood up, offering you his hand to help you get up. You smiled and took his hand kindly as Thor did the same gesture for Sif making her blush even more. You walked to there chatting about anything and everything.

"So, uh, are you guys bringing anyone to mother and father's party next week?" Thor asked out of nowhere when it was quiet for a bit. You turned to Loki and made a gesture like 'let's leave for a while' and he nodded.

"I just remembered, mother asked me to bring some flowers with us when we get back, we'll just pick them up with y/n. You guys talk, we won't be away for too long." Loki smiled and put a hand on your back, softly pushing you to the other side of the road where the flowers were more.

"Okay, be careful, i heard there was an insect on the flowers for the past few days." Thor warned and you nodded before turning around and leaving him alone with Sif.

"Why did you want to leave?" Loki asked after there was enough space between you and the other two where they definitely couldn't hear you.

"Sif told me she wanted to go with Thor to the party this morning and i wanted to give them some privacy." you smiled and he furrowed his eyebrows in a surprised way.

"Sif wants to go with Thor?" he asked, and you nodded.

"Of course, have you not seen the way she looks at him? I'm surprised she hasn't started drooling over Thor." you chuckled. "Oh wait, you didn't want to ask her did you? I'll be so sorry if i ruined your chance." you furrowed your eyebrows this time but he shook his head immediately.

"No, don't worry. You didn't ruin anything." he smiled and you sighed in relief.

"Okay, that's good." you smiled and turned around to look at the other two. Sif had a happy face which was a good thing. Loki cleared his throat making you turn back and look at him.

"Do you want to go with someone particular?" he asked looking into your eyes.

"Uh, no." you lied, you'd actually quite enjoy keeping his company as something more than a friend. Like you'd ever admit that to him.

"Then would you like to go with me? We don't have to call it a 'date' if you don't want to, we are good friends after all, there is nothing weird about attending an event together." he talked really fast like he thought you were going to say no.

"Loki, stop. of course i'll go with you." you smiled. "And yes, there's nothing weird about it." Did you just accidentally friendzone him? Even if he understood it like that, which seemed like he did based on the sad look on his face, it was too late now. It could sound weird if you said something about it.

"Alright, i'm glad to hear that." he smiled but he still seemed a little hurt and you wanted to punch yourself for being the cause of it. There was always some tension between you, at least you felt like there was, but neither of you ever acted on it. You had attended previous parties and celebrations together before and there had always been some flirting but every friendship has that, right?

"Which flower does your mother like the most?" you asked trying to change the subject.

"Those pink ones look alright." he pointed to them and you nodded, walking to pick some. You'd feel weird if you'd just bend down while he was behind you so you put one of your knees to the ground and picked a few flowers, trying to choose the ones with big leaves. When you turned back and didn't see Loki there you wondered where he went but your question was answered with a tap on your shoulder.

"Can i?" he pointed to your hair, he had a daisy in his hand, one of your favorite flowers.

"Sure." you smiled and nodded and he put the flower on your ear.

"You look cute like this." Loki smiled. "Not that you look any less adorable without it." he thought to himself. There was a silence between you two for a while after his comment, a comfortable one as you looked into each other's eyes. You never minded being silent and just sitting (or standing in this situation) with him, it was always relaxing. Thor's voice interrupted you and you turned to him not before noticing the slight blush on Loki's face.

"Are you guys ready to go back? I think the dinner's already ready by now." Thor asked putting his arm around Sif's waist. You looked at her and she was smiling brightly.

"Yes, let's go." you smiled and started to walk back to the palace.

[peteparkersbug]

A Drunk Man’s Actions Are A Sober Man’s Thoughts (Loki x F!Reader)

Hey guys! I hope you’ll enjoy this short Loki fic!

For Context: This takes place sometime before Thor 1, so that’s why I referred to Loki as an Odinson, not Laufeyson. 

Word Count: 1.2k

Warnings: alcohol consumption

It felt like there was always a celebration going on in Asgard. Whether it was a resolution of a fight between Sif and Loki, or maybe Thor and his friends had won a battle against some foes. No matter the day, someone was celebrating something. 

Today's occasion? The 500th wedding anniversary between Odin and his gorgeous wife, Frigga. They had invited all of Asgard to the palace for a grand feast and a night of drinking plus dancing. 

You were very much looking forward to the event; it gave you a chance to dress up and forget about any and all problems in your life. Besides, seeing the youngest Odinson dress up was always a treat. 

You and Sif were currently in her chambers, picking out outfits from the vast selection of fine Asgardian fabrics that Frigga had brought you two. 

"What about this one?" Sif asked, stepping out of the bathroom to reveal herself in a royal purple gown. 

You smiled brightly, nodding your head rapidly, "that's it! That's definitely the one!"

She returned the smile and pulled her hair out of it's signature pony tail, sitting down on the bed, "okay (Y/N), it's your turn. Pick a gown," she declared, gesturing to all the options. 

They all looked so beautiful and were to your liking, but a certain forest green one caught your eye; it had the perfect amount of lace, it was flowy, and it was cut at the perfect length. 

Lady Sif smirked at the colour choice and watched as you entered the bathroom, closing the door to have some privacy while you changed. When you came out, she had no words; your beauty literally made her speechless. 

"(Y/N)...." she trailed off, making you freeze. Was it bad? 

"It's perfect for you! You're definitely gonna catch the eye of a certain someone-" she cut off her sentence with a squeal as you slapped her shoulder, claiming you had absolutely no idea what she was talking about. 

The two of you finished getting ready and made your way to the dining hall, taking the seats you sat in everyday. Eventually, everyone was gathered at the table, both Odin and Frigga giving excellent greetings and speeches towards each other; Frigga's was so moving it brought a few people to tears. 

Throughout the boisterous and eventful dinner, you kept taking glances over at Loki, who was seated next to his mother with his brother next to his father. What you failed to notice is that Loki knew you were watching him; he always seemed to look over at you when you were already looking away, a blush on your cheeks as you talked to Sif. 

He smirked slightly and took another swig of his chalice. He had no idea what was in it, but what he did know is that he wanted another. And maybe another...

When everyone had had their fill of the delicious meal, it was time for the after party; the chance for everyone to sing and dance and drink the night away. You enjoyed dancing, but Sif wasn't much of a dancer, so the two of you hung out by the corner, drinking your drinks while chatting quietly. 

Loki watched you from across the room, blindly accepting another drink from his older brother, who had a mischievous smirk displayed. The youngest didn't have a clue as to why, but he also didn't really care; Thor was a strange man in his opinion. 

Normally Loki would just watch you from afar, but something about tonight felt different. With a new carefree attitude, he sauntered over to you, chuckling quietly when he saw your panicked expression and your rapid whispers to Sif. When he got to you, Sif quickly excused herself, sending a knowing look to Loki; one that said 'show her a good time but watch yourself.' 

He nodded at her, his way of silently thanking her. 

"It's good to see you, my dear. I was waiting for our paths to cross tonight," he declared, making you cough on your drink. 

My dear? That was new. You took a good look at his face, noticing the way his pupils were dilated, the harsh blush on his cheeks, and the goofy smile on his lips. You also took notice of the way his body swayed slightly; almost as if he couldn't keep his balance.

"Loki..." you trailed off, "....are you drunk?" you asked, making him burst into laughter. 

"Oh (Y/N), my love. My darling, my goddess.....that's actually a good question. Am I? Who knows!" he exclaimed, loud laughter escaping him. 

You tried to hold back any comments; it was very strange seeing Loki so loose and carefree at a party. Suddenly, a slow and melodic song came on, the youngest Odinson recognizing it immediately as his parent's wedding song. 

He turned back to face you, holding his hand out, "well then, shall we, my queen?" he asked, ignoring the way your cheeks exploded into redness. 

You couldn't say anything; you were so star struck, so you simply nodded, placing your shaking hand in his. He eagerly yet softly led you to the dance floor, ignoring the shocked looks from the other guests and the smug looks on Thor and Sif. 

With some trouble due to Loki's intoxicated state, the two of you managed to waltz around like everyone else, genuinely having a nice time. The only rough patch was when Loki stumbled over his own feet, making you bump into Frigga and Odin. With a quick and quiet apology, the two of you continued your dance. 

When the song changed to something more slow, you settled for swaying back and forth in his arms. 

"(Y/N) my love, did I ever tell you how absolutely ravishing you look in that gown?" he asked, mumbling into your ear. 

You tensed as he continued, "truly the most beautiful woman in all of Asgard and the Nine Realms."

You couldn't help yourself, you blushed a deep red. However, you knew you had to put a stop to it, "Loki, you can't say stuff like that..." 

He grabbed your chin, making you look up into his stunning eyes, "and why not, darling?" 

You forced yourself to look anywhere but him as you said, "you're drunk. By tomorrow, you're not going to remember or mean any of this," a quick breath escaped your lips when you finished. 

As you gained the courage to finally look back at him, you saw that he looked....hurt; almost betrayed.

"(Y/N), do you really think that?" he asked nervously, his tone completely serious. 

With some hesitation you nodded, prompting him to stop swaying the two of you. He shook his head, cupping both your cheeks and stroking them with his thumbs. 

"Well..." he began, a nervous yet excited glint in his eyes, "as they say on Migard: a drunken man's actions are a sober man's thoughts." 

You were about to ask him what he meant by that, but you couldn't speak as you suddenly felt a pair of lips on yours. Your eyes widened as you realized Loki Odinson, the prince of Asgard, was kissing you. It didn't take you long to kiss back, the two of you pouring your frustrations and affection into it. 

When you pulled away, the two of you were breathless, panting slightly. You shared a smile and leaned back in, your lips meeting again. You didn't know what tomorrow would bring, but you decided that living in this moment for right now was perfectly fine with you.

[shreddedparchment]

A Wife for Thor Pt.03

10/21/2020

Garden of Delights

Pairing: King!Thor x Reader          Word Count: 5,411

Warnings: angst, jealousy, talks of death, talk of sickness, infant sickness, neglect, fluff

A/N: As I said, writing itself right now. lol I’m not really sure how long this story will be. I have the basic premise set and a small plot, but if I choose to make this around the size of Pseudo Princess, I’ll have to come up with a bigger plot than the simple one I’ve got. Anywho, I hope you enjoy this chapter! I know I certainly loved writing it. If you happen to reblog, thanks so much for helping me spread my work! xoxo

Seriously, Thor doesn’t reblog as easily as Bucky or Steve on tumblr, so I TRULY appreciate it.

Please do not RESPOST any of my works on other sides or blogs.

REBLOGS always welcome!

You’re still laughing gently, hiding your chewing behind your hand.

“Stop.” You plead, looking across the table at Thor.

Both of you seated on opposite heads of the table. To your left is Loki, smirking with no shame at the stories just relayed. To your right is Brunnhilde, sipping her wine…well, guzzling would be more apt.

She’s teetering left and right, elbow on the table as she shakes her head at Loki across from her.

They lock eyes and Loki scoffs, “Don’t pretend as if you didn’t want to stab him too when you first met him.”

“I never said I didn’t!” She argues, plopping her glass down a little too hard and the glass makes a loud clink that draws everyone’s gaze.

“Why did you want to stab him?” You ask her, reaching for your own glass of regular wine. Thor had promised that you didn’t want to try the Asgardian mix.

“You won’t wake for a week. Trust me, Your Highness.” He’d been super proper, and it was a little annoying, but you understand why he’s being so careful. He wants to impress everyone, especially the two who sit beside him.

To his left sits a woman, absolutely drop dead gorgeous with creamy moon skin and raven hair. She’s certainly one to watch out for as Brunnhilde had said.

She hasn’t smiled once since she gave you a small stiff grin as Thor had introduced you.

Even now she watches you, her hand resting on the table, a little too close to Thor’s hand for comfort.

Her fingers seem to be inching their way towards his and you feel the beginning bite of fangs in your mouth at the thought of her hating you because she wants Thor for herself.

This also makes you sad because you don’t meet women who are as unique as she, but Lady Sif has drawn a line and you find yourself on one side with Thor while she watches from the other, despising your very existence for taking the man she covets.

On Thor’s right is a man with his dark hair in dreads. Beautiful amber eyes stand bright against his dark skin, and the luxurious gray armor he wears, sits pretty on his muscular form. To his own right is a sword, placed between him and Loki.

He looks less amused by the story Loki and Thor just told them but when he meets your gaze, his eyes betray an amusement. Heimdall, protector of the Asgardian borders, has a soft spot for his King and his friends.

“To put it short,” Brunnhilde begins, popping her lips as she lifts her wine to her lips again, eyes locked on Thor. “He’s a bit of a doofus.”

Thor’s burst of booming laughter in infectious and you laugh too, just as Loki, Brunnhilde, and even Heimdall chuckles along gently.

Lady Sif is the only one who doesn’t laugh but merely smiles as she look at Thor as he shakes his head overwhelmed with amusement.

You know what she sees, the crinkles at the corners of his eyes are endearing. The sparkle of his one blue eye. The loveliness of his golden bearded face all stretched into a stunning smile.

“I am not a doofus!” He protests, then clears his throat and taps his fingers against the table as he makes his face as serious as he can manage. “What way is that to speak of your King?”

Brunnhilde throws her head back outrageously tickled by his words.

“You may be my King, but that does not make you any less of a doofus than before you earned your crown.” She throws at him and Thor laughs again, shaking his head as you quietly chuckle with them, loving this exchange and the ease at which they seem to be.

“What about that made you want to stab him?” You ask her, everyone’s gaze drawn to you and Lady Sif’s smile vanishing.

“Well, you’ll just have to wait and see.” Brunnhilde teases. “My condolences. Being married to this buffoon will be a true test of your character.”

Although her words are said as a joke, your heart gives a small lurch as you meet Thor’s gaze again, and this time he holds it, his own face falling a little to only a soft smile as both of you replay the conversation in the hallway once again.

“I’ll just have to try my best.” You tell her, a small shrug of your shoulder. “He seems alright so far. No major red flags. Besides the obvious.”

Thor’s smile is completely gone now, his brow furrowed as he continues to stare at you, his breathing a little deeper. A little more labored.

You’re nervous as you speak, voice shaking a little as your heart pounds and aches.

“What’s that?” Loki asks, also serious suddenly, picking up on the tension between you and Thor.

It might seem like you’re letting it go on too long on purpose, using it to make everyone uncomfortable, but really you just have to find the strength to speak as your nerves begin to get the better of you.

“Well,” You begin, voice still shaking. “I mean, look at him.”

And they all do.

“He’s also been really nice to me.” You admit, because aside from the unanswered question in the hallway, Thor has treated you respectfully, politely, with genuine concern and compassion…so far. “I think the deal was that I’m supposed to marry him and it’s alright if I don’t love him but, how long can I really resist?”

Brunnhilde scoffs, purging the atmosphere for everyone else of what you’re saying allowing them to relax and laugh at your strange way of telling them you find Thor attractive.

“At least your worries about your wife not liking you are assuaged.” Heimdall claps Thor on the shoulder, visibly shaking his body, but Thor’s intense gaze is on you alone.

Swallowing hard, you reach for your wine glass and take a deep drink, so conscious of Thor’s stare.

Dinner goes on just as it began and before long, Thor is back to laughing and chatting while your own attention is given to Loki and Heimdall whenever he remembers something he’s wants to ask.

When all plates are cleaned and glasses sit empty, dinner officially over, Sif turns hard eyes on you.

“So, I hear that you don’t have parents.” The interest is forced. She couldn’t care less about you or your life.

“Yeah,” You nod. “Um, they died a few months after I was born. Plane accident.”

“I’m sorry to hear it.” Heimdall laments kindly.

Beside you, Brunnhilde has her head in her hand, elbow on the table, eyes shut and mouth slightly open.

She’d just been talking so this is new.

“Thank you, but I don’t remember them. My only sorrow comes from never having a family.” You admit. “I grew up in a school—well, really it was an orphanage, but it was run much like a private school with uniforms that the government provided along with a minimal education. I attended until I became a legal adult and my lawyer, came to give me my inheritance.”

“Why weren’t you adopted?” Sif asks, her voice full of well-hidden venom that you can hear only because you know to look for it, her hand is inching towards Thor’s again and while he’s not your husband yet, the urge to stake claim over it is strong.

The way she asks also makes you feel as if she’s waiting to see exactly what is wrong with you. What can she use against you?

You smile, a smirk really, knowing what she’s up to.

You’re not unkind, but you bristle when attacked and Sif is making it easy for you to be defensive.

Searching within yourself for the strength to keep yourself calm, you take a deep breath before you answer.

“I wasn’t a healthy baby. I was sick, all the time. There was even a night my fever became so high that the doctors were sure that I would be left with brain damage. So, they watched me grow, expecting defects, but I got sick less and less the older I got.

“My speech and motor functions were top tier, and my learning capabilities were also fine.”

Everyone is silent, watching you with somber expressions. You’re a little on edge with them paying you such close attention, but this was the point of the dinner. To get to know each other.

“Unfortunately, potential parents were warned about the possible challenges I might face as I grew older, which put many of them off. While they wanted an infant, they didn’t want one that was broken.”

“I’m sorry for their ignorance.” Heimdall offers. “Clearly you grew up to be a lovely woman, but even if you had not, I’m saddened by their lack of compassion.”

You can only smile at him, having come to terms with the facts of your childhood long ago.

“Anyway, that’s why no one adopted me. So, a true family is something I’ve never had. I’m…” You blink, wondering how honest you want to be here. “I think it’s one of the things I’m looking forward to most. After tonight, I’m more convinced than before that this is will be a good environment to build a family. You’re all so nice.”

Loki, Brunnhilde—who’s awake again—and Heimdall are smiling. Lady Sif sits stiffly, her hands pulled onto her lap as she keeps her eyes locked on the empty plate in front of her.

Your heart stutters as you meet Thor’s eyes again. Staring deep into the single blue orb still locked on you.

“As conflicted as my past with the people in this room has been, I promise you, that is the right decision.” Loki assures you, a peaceful smile on his face that somehow comforts any misgivings you’ve been having.

At least about the people you’ll be around daily.

Your conversation with Thor in the hallway is a different matter, and one that you really want to finish.

“Well,” Brunnhilde slaps her hands on the table, rising to her feet with a little sway. “I think that’ enough pleasant conversation for me. I am tired-”

“And drunk.” Loki adds.

“-And that.” She agrees. “I need some sleep. So, Y/N, Your Royal Highness this has truly been a pleasure. I will be by in the morning to see you about wedding arrangements. Not too early though, you know—”

She steps out from in front of her chair, already walking towards the door large double doors.

Heimdall rises too, then Loki, Thor, and Lady Sif.

You stand last, fixing your dress as you do, making sure it isn’t stained. Luckily, it isn’t.

“This has indeed been illuminating.” Heimdall agrees, moving over to you to take your hand and press a chaste kiss to your knuckles. “Your Highness, it has been a true pleasure. I look forward to getting better acquainted with you.”

Loki is smiling, standing by the door but then he turns his eyes on Lady Sif.

“A word, Sif?” She looks at him, freezing beside Thor where she’d already begun to take his arm to pull his attention. “It won’t take long.”

With a sigh, she gives you one look before moving out the door in a huff, Heimdall following. Loki gives Thor a nod, something silent passes between them. With one final nod to you as well, Loki leaves.

“I really am very sorry that Volstagg, Fandral, and Hogun could not join us. Unfortunately, the Warrior’s Three are highly sought throughout the galaxies.” Thor says, moving towards you with calm slow steps. “They should be back for the wedding though.”

“I’m excited to meet them. Everyone was so kind.” You observe. “Well, almost.”

Thor looks confused, stopping just at the corner of the table beside you, his fingers nervously tracing the shape of the edge.

“Seriously? You didn’t notice?” You shake your head, somehow finding it funny. “I think Brunnhilde might be right about you being a doofus.”

Thor laughs once, blows a quick raspberry in denial at your conclusion. “Why do you say that?”

“Thor, Lady Sif hates me.” You point out, it’s so obvious to you and was obvious to Loki too at least.

“No.” Thor shakes his head.

“She kept trying to grab your hand! She kept glaring daggers at me.” You sigh. “She’s in love with you.”

“Sif is like a sister.” Thor tells you, as if this negates her feelings as well.

“She’s still in love with you.”

Thor sighs. “I’ll speak with her.”

“Don’t bother. I think Loki’s beating you to it.”

“Walk with me?” He asks, and your heart goes into sudden arrest.

Fingers nice and tingly, you swallow the lump in your throat. “What?”

“I would like it very much if you walked with me for a while. The night is not over yet, and despite the exhaustion of my court, it’s not actually that late yet. The gardens my people have cultivated for the palace are beautiful. I’d love to show them to you.” He offers his hand, waiting patiently for you to take it but you can only gawk at him.

“Isn’t it cold outside?” You ask, on edge.

Thor drops his hand. “Oh, right. Estrid?”

She’s already waiting by the door, auburn hair looking slightly disheveled.

“Ah, Estrid.” Thor smiles, big dopey grin on his face. “Oh, your hair…”

He gestures and she quickly fixes it.

“I’m sorry, Your Majesty.” She gasps.

“No, no. Just looked funny.” He eases her, and she calms instantly, smiling bashfully. “Can you fetch Her Highness a jacket?”

Estrid turns and rushes from the room but returns only seconds later with a long navy cloak. It isn’t a jacket, but it will match your dress nicely.

“That’s not a jacket.” You observe, feeling self-conscious.

Thor takes it from her and holds it open for you. There’s a clasp around the throat that will sit against your collarbone. “It’s a cloak. It’ll keep you just as warm as a jacket.”

You turn for him and he slips it over your shoulders, holding it until you turn to face him then he quickly fastens the clasp.

“Better?” He checks, fixing it around you.

You can’t find your voice to answer. Heart is racing. Damn him. This isn’t going to work if he keeps being sweet.

He offers you his arm and you hesitate, timidly wrapping your hand around the lower part of his large bulky bicep again.

“Wonderful.” He smiles wide. “Estrid, Her Highness will be in later, please prepare her bedroom so that she might go to sleep as soon as we return.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” She curtsies quickly then turns and rushes out to get your room ready.

“She doesn’t have to do that.” You tell him, turning to watch her flee. “I can make my own bed and stuff.”

“It’s her job.” Thor tells you. “Will you take it from her?”

You think about it carefully, and despite the fact that  Thor is a warrior and has travelled around the world sleeping in terrible places with no comforts at times, you understand in this moment that having servants is something he’s used to.

“No.” You realize and make a mental note to let these people do their work without putting up too much of a fight.

Thor leads you off down a side door into another dark wooden hallway with beautiful cobbled floors beneath your feet with a long carpet running its length. No one seems to be walking around in this hallway which makes you think it’s more secluded.

“Did David tell you I like flowers?” You check, wondering how much information Thor has about you.

“No? I didn’t know that though. That makes this even better.” He realizes.

You lapse into silence, hand trembling around his bicep as your mind replays the last two hours, picking apart every moment, every word shared, and every lingering look Thor had given you.

“Did you enjoy dinner?” Thor asks, his voice much lower, quieter.

It’s an intimate volume and it startles you, giving you a little bit of a delay in your response.

You meet his eyes and he’s staring right at you, soft smile stretched across his lips. It’s more a peaceful expression, calming.

And yet, it has the opposite effect on you, and you gasp a little as you catch your breath. Your heart is pounding through your ribcage.

“It was good.” You nod, looking towards the large stone archway up ahead. One of the doors stands open, the Norwegian night beyond.

You can see a splash of beautiful green beyond and can already hear the soft tinkling of flowing water from what is probably a fountain.

“And the conversation?” He asks, tilting his head to one side as he gives it better thought. “Aside from Sif.”

“They were all super nice, Thor.” You smile, honestly grateful to Loki, Brunnhilde, and Heimdall for their warm welcome. “I wish Lady Sif had been more open. She’s been fighting at your side for a long time, right?”

“She has.” Thor nods, as the two of you break through the doorway and you’re greeted with an elegant garden larger than even the circular room you’d first met with Thor in.

Your jaw drops and you stop walking, gaping at the collection of flora and fauna each piece delicately pruned and cared for. There are certainly several small fountains, dark gray with small underwater lights to provide the garden with diffused illumination.

Despite the chilly night, the garden makes you feel warm with flowers of every color. Roses in white and red, lilies with stunning white, carnations in pink, wine, cream, yellow, and purple. Throughout the roses are smaller pink flowers you don’t know but they’re adorable and the fragrance in this garden is intoxicating.

“Wow.” You whisper.

“You like it?” Thor asks, smiling a little wider as he waits for you to take your long look.

“It’s beautiful.” You nod.

“Come.” He pulls you along gently, urging you to walk again.

You follow, your hand sturdier around his arm. “Do you like gardens too?”

Thor nods. “My mother used to cherish her garden. When we arrived, it was the first thing I had commissioned. They were finished building it before they even finished the palace.”

“She passed?” You wonder, looking up at the echo of sadness in his eyes.

“A while ago.” Thor nods. “I miss her counsel. She was always the voice of reason and logic in my life.”

“I’m sorry.” You offer, hoping it’s a comfort.

You reach up with your other hand, wrapping it around his arm too.

He looks down at you, eyes searching, confused? But his smile never wavers. “Thank you.”

The two of you lapse into silence again, you busy looking at every flower you pass in admiration, Thor lost in thought.

“I’m going to miss my herb garden.” You lament with a sigh.

“You had an herb garden?” Thor wonders, turning his attention back to you.

“Just a small one. I only had some rosemary and thyme. I wanted to grow some mint, parsley, basil, and dill but I didn’t get the chance.”

Thor stops walking, gently shakes his arm to make your hand slide down along his forearm. As it falls, you takes hold of it.

You’re startled, but you don’t pull away, your mind devouring the information you can gleam from this moment as quickly as it can.

His hand is warm. No…it’s hot. Like he’s had it shut for a long time. The skin is a little rough, calloused, but not uncomfortable. You can just imagine the battles he must have fought. His hand is so big. Fingers wrapped softly around yours. He gives it a squeeze and you feel it in your core that this isn’t going at all how you planned.

You almost want to run to your room and hide under your blankets with the speed at which you can feel yourself dropping your guard to him.

The plan had been to marry him, never love him, and live your life as best you can and probably take a lover at some point. You should be able to love too.

But it isn’t supposed to be Thor. You’re not supposed to fall for him.

You remind yourself of his refusal to be honest with you. You remind yourself that his heart is already given and accepted. Jane loves him too, even if she won’t marry him to prevent him from marrying someone else.

You can understand why she can’t give up her life to take on this one. It’s a lot to ask of anyone.

It helps you grasp onto reality, to remember the conversation before dinner and his inability to commit to honesty when It comes to Jane.

“I have something to show you.” He tells you and pulls you down the length of the garden until you reach a greenhouse.

Thor releases your hand and throws the doors open before holding his hand out for you to take again.

You do, and he pulls you into the narrow but long space. Each side is lined with planter boxes, each box holds a different herb, including all of the ones you mentioned before, and some you have never seen before.

“What is this?” You gasp, reaching for a particularly strange one in a deep blue, almost black color.

“It’s the Asgardian version of lavender.” He tells you, placing his other hand over the one you’re reaching out for it with. “But it stings a little for humans to touch with bare hands. There are garden glove in the box by the door if you want to cut some for your room later. It smells wonderful. My mother used to keep some on her desk.”

“I can take some?” You gasp, turning to look up at him and he’s standing so damn close, you shrink in surprise.

“Of course.” He smiles at you, “This is your home now. Anything in these gardens is yours to have.”

He’s so fucking nice! You hate him.

You’re too stunned by his proximity to speak, hands twitching under his own. He seems to realize what’s got you tongue-tied because he takes a step and one hand back but keeps hold of the other.

“I wanted to talk with you, it’s why I’ve brought you here.” He pulls you along, and you give the herb garden one final look before he shuts the doors and moves back towards the center of the garden.

There you find several white marble benches around a small manmade pond, surrounded by more flowers.

Thor leads you to one of these benches, then extends a hand towards it so that you’ll sit.

You do, nervous suddenly as he sits beside you, taking his hand back for the first time since he began to show you the garden.

“You’re making me nervous.” You admit, your mouth moving before you can stop it. Anxious is not a good state for you.

“No.” He assures you, shaking his head, full of concern. “No, please don’t be nervous. I only wanted to continue our conversation from before dinner.”

“Oh.” You nod, expecting to be denied the honesty you want.

How will you use his refusal to do it as an excuse to not fall for him if he agrees to it?

“You’re right.” He nods, turning in the seat to face you a little better, your body mirroring his.

“I am?”

“Yes.” He takes a long deep breath. “After everything that was said during dinner, after watching my friends meet with you and get to know you, I realize that you’re right in what you say. I am asking a lot from you. More than I care to admit.”

Your mouth is suddenly dry.

“Did you mean what you said?” He whispers, a trace amount of uncertainty in his deep voice.

“What did I say?” You ask, voice not as quiet but still a little breathless.

“About falling for me?”

“Oh.” Your brain goes fuzzy and your heart is probably going to burst through your chest like in that one horror movie you watched as a kid.

“Truth is, I chose you because you were different.” He nods. “Not, different from regular humans. Most of them are very much like you, which is great. I love humans. But compared to the other ladies that came to meet for this purpose, I…if I’d wanted someone who would turn a blind eye while I and Jane continued to see each other, then I should have chosen one of them.

“They knew what was expected, as did you, but I didn’t consider how the difference in you would affect your own responses.”

“Are you saying you don’t want me anymore?” You ask timidly, feeling a rush of emotions all mixing together, turning into confusion.

You’re almost happy that he doesn’t want you anymore. You won’t have to marry him and deal with Jane and a life of standing by watching him be with someone else while the world thinks you’re together.

Another part of you, the part that’s already out of your control—even though you’ll never admit it—can’t help but feel depressed that he’ll be married to someone else.

“No!” Thor rushes to assure you, sliding over closer so that he can take your hand again, his knee touching yours. “No, that’s not at all what I’m saying. What I’m saying is that I understand what you meant. I know why you were upset. I’m sorry that I did not consider this whole thing more carefully from your perspective.”

You feel a wave of relief and know you’re screwed. It’s already too late.

“But I need you to answer my question.” He says.

Your eyes go wide at the audacity of this man as you laugh because it’s so funny of him to need that of you when he couldn’t return the favor before. “You didn’t answer mine!”

He smiles, chuckling. “Answer mine first.”

As you consider him, blue eye staring at you with no restraint for the way his gaze makes you feel, your mood grows somber, all traces of your laugh gone.

“Yes.” You sigh. “I’ve never been in love before.”

You shrug.

“And it’s not like you’re not…I mean…You know damn well what you look like.” You growl.

Thor laughs, throwing his head back.

“And then you come in with that voice and you’re not rude or…I mean, you were a little mean with the whole asking me to put up with being married and having no love in it. Like, I get that it might be normal for royals or whatever, but I’m not really royal. I haven’t lived in a palace with servants and a crown on my head.

“I grew up in an orphanage with no friends. No one has ever loved me. My parents loved me, I think, but they died and no one has cared about me like that since. Even now, the only person on my side is David, and I know he only stuck around because he felt bad for me. He’s also getting paid by my estate, so…there’s that.

“I’m not asking you to love me. I know that you love someone else, but I was only asking for you to be open with me about it. If you want to meet Jane, fine. Meet her. But do it somewhere that I can’t see. Do it but tell me that’s where you’ll be so that even if rumors fly in my ear that Thor is meeting with his mistress, it won’t hurt as much. It won’t make me feel as stupid, because I already know that’s where you are.”

Thor’s hand over yours grows tighter, his face lamenting for who knows what reason, because you’re not in his head but you can see that he feels bad which is stupid and you hate him for it because it means he cares.

You only just met him but with every passing moment in his presence, you fall more and more. It’s not love yet. You know that. It can’t be a crush because you know him too well. You like him. You’ll admit that.

“To answer your question more clearly,” You take a deep breath, exhaling quickly to wipe away the excess of emotion that surged forward suddenly. “Yes. I meant it. I don’t love you now, but I think I could.”

Thor nods, looking down at your hand, turning it over in his own.

The silence feels endless! He won’t speak, but his thumb keeps caressing your hand and you kinda wanna bite him for it.

“If my mother were here, she’d be disappointed in me. She’d tell me that I should let go of Jane. She met her, and while she liked her but…We are clearly moving along different paths and as much as I love her, she is not the one for me. Not anymore. My mother would definitely think so.

“I think she would have really liked you.” He admits, and his words give you comfort. “She would have called me a fool to pass up such a sweet and level-headed woman.”

“I’m not that level-headed.” You confess. “I’ve got anxiety issues sometimes.”

Thor smiles.

“I think she would have been right.”

Wait, is he saying what you think he’s saying?

“I will talk with Jane tomorrow to…to break things off. It won’t be the first time for us to part ways and I think in the long run it will be better for us both.”

“Thor, you don’t have to-”

“But I do.” He nods, meeting your eyes. “I need to let go of my past to embrace my future. And that’s you and New Asgard. It’s my people.”

“I want this marriage to work.” He continues. “I chose you and I meant that choice. Out of all the women I met, your picture of an ideal marriage was the closest to mine. It would make me happy to live that life with you.”

You’re breathless, chest heaving as you struggle to find a coherent thought.

Thor seems to realize that you’re struggling because he places your hand on your lap, tapping it gently before scooting back a little to give you space.

He’s so fucking massive! How is it possible that this is seriously your life? This God will be your husband. You’re going to have his kids?!

Your cheeks burn, neck burns, ears burn, legs suddenly clenched together as the fear from before runs quickly through your mind.

They’d wanted a maiden and they got one. Will he talk about it with you later? You can’t bear to talk about it now. You’re too embarrassed and overwhelmed by what he’s saying.

“So,” He starts, rising to his feet to tower over you. Then he falls, gliding gently onto one knee before reaching into his pants to pull from his pocket a small brown pouch.

He opens it, turns it over, and into his hand tumbles a shining silver ring.

“I chose this before I knew you liked flowers but now that I know, it makes me glad I picked it.” He smiles, “It just made me think of you when I went searching so, I hope you like it.”

He grabs it with two fingers, pinching the thin band delicately to hold it upright so that you can see the stunning design. A round diamond rests in the middle, shining brilliantly at the center of what looks like a lotus flower made of smaller diamonds filling its leaves.

You hate him because you absolutely love this ring. You love the sight of him on his knee in front of you. You love the way he scoots closer so that he can hold your hand easier as he gently straightens it and presses the ring to the tip of your finger.

“Will you marry me, Y/N? Will you be my Queen?” He asks, and you’re so silent, he grows visibly nervous. “Please?”

You laugh at the hitch in his voice, the plea there.

“Yes, stupid.” You laugh again.

He chuckles as he slips the ring on your finger, then after a moment of hesitation, he hooks his hand behind your neck and pulls you down to meet his lips.

Eyes wide, heart stopped, you freeze as hot lips fry your nervous system.

[sifthebritisheco]

Good morning! ❤️

[pinktwingirl]

Loki Series Rewrite (AKA Loki Series But With Squirrel Girl) Ep 3

INT. TVA - DAY

Loki is attacking Sylvie. Suddenly, Doreen enters and rushes up to them.

DOREEN

Loki, catch!

She tosses him a prune stick. Loki takes it and he starts fighting Sylvie with her. During the battle, Doreen manages to overpower Sylvie and tackle her to the ground. Doreen holds her knuckle spikes to Sylvie's throat, but Sylvie twists her arm and kicks Loki's prune stick away. Sylvie then kicks Doreen's face and grabs Loki. Doreen freezes when she sees Sylvie is holding a dagger to Loki's throat. Just then, Ravonna and several other agents enter.

SYLVIE

Come any closer, and I'll kill him.

RAVONNA

Go for it.

Doreen glares at her. Before she can attack, Loki whips out his tem-pad, causing himself and Sylvie to disappear.

We cut to later, when Mobius, Ravonna, and Doreen are standing where Loki and Sylvie vanished.

DOREEN

(to Ravonna)

Thanks for nothing.

RAVONNA

I called her bluff. I knew she wasn't going to do it.

DOREEN

Yeah. Sure.

MOBIUS

Where the hell did they go?

DOREEN

You don't know?

MOBIUS

Loki took the tem-pad with him. We can't find his location if we don't have it.

(He groans in frustration.)

That bastard! He directly disobeyed me! I knew I shouldn't have trusted him!

DOREEN

He probably just wanted to know what was going on! Look, I can find him with-

(She takes out her Loki locket, only to see that it is broken.)

Shit...

MOBIUS

What?

DOREEN

This thing must've gotten damaged in the fight.

MOBIUS

Can't you just fix it?

DOREEN

It's not that simple. Thor let me borrow parts of rare Asgardian technology to build this. They were some of the last parts they had, so I would have to go back in time to Asgard to get more. And... I have no idea where I would even begin to start looking there.

Mobius sighs.

MOBIUS

Alright, look, I'll search through our files on Asgard to see what I can find. In the meantime, just try to salvage what you can, and don't dilly-dally. Every moment those variants are on the loose, we're all in danger.

INT. TVA OFFICE - DAY

Doreen is trying to work on the locket to no avail. She slams it down and sighs. Just then, her squirrel Monkey Joe hops up on the table, carrying spare parts. He sets them down and squeaks at her.

DOREEN

No... Those won't work, Monkey Joe. We need gear that can navigate through both space and time.

Looking dejected, Monkey Joe lets out a few sad squeaks. Doreen pets him and gives him an almond as consolation.

DOREEN

I know, buddy, you tried your best...

Doreen's other squirrels, Tippy-Toe and Mr. Lieberman join Monkey Joe to eat pieces of the almond. Just then, CASEY turns around and peers at the squirrels in horror.

CASEY

What are those?

(Beat)

DOREEN

Um, almonds? Want some?

CASEY

No, the... things eating them...

Doreen raises an eyebrow.

DOREEN

They're squirrels.

CASEY

"Squirrels?"

DOREEN

What, you've never seen a squirrel before?

CASEY

No... I've spent my whole life here, so I've never seen any animals at all.

Doreen looks mortified.

DOREEN

That's the saddest thing I've ever heard in my life...

INT. TVA LIBRARY - DAY

Mobius is looking through various old books on shelves. He pauses when he flips through a book that has Asgardian writing and a map of Asgard.

INT. TVA OFFICE - DAY

Doreen is showing Casey pictures of different types of squirrels on her phone as Casey looks on in wonder.

DOREEN

So, this here is a red squirrel. I just love their little pointy ears! Ooh, and these ones are extra rare: The Japanese flying squirrel! Look at their beady little eyes! And their fluffy tail! You can only find these in one island on all of Earth!

CASEY

Wow... That's amazing!

Just then, Mobius walks in.

MOBIUS

Doreen!

Doreen quickly slams her phone down.

DOREEN

Uhhh, yes, sir, we are hard at work!

She does an awkward salute. Mobius frowns at her.

MOBIUS

I found this book in our library.

(He flips to a page that has a drawing of Odin's treasure room with a description written in Asgardian.)

This look familiar?

Doreen frowns as she peers at the book.

DOREEN

This is all in Asgardian. I can't read it.

MOBIUS

Forget the text; look at the picture.

He points to a section of the drawing where several golden parts are stored in the treasure room. Doreen's eyes widen.

DOREEN

Oh my God... I think that's it!

Mobius grins.

MOBIUS

Yeah? You think you could go get it if I sent you to Asgard, say, a couple decades in the past?

DOREEN

Sure, I mean... All I would have to do is find Odin's treasure room... wherever that is, somehow break in, get the parts, and then, by some miracle, get out undetected, and then we're home free!

MOBIUS

Easy!

DOREEN

Easy!

(She pats him on the back.)

Good job, Moby! I might need a change of clothes, though.

MOBIUS

What's wrong with your clothes?

DOREEN

I mean, I can't just walk into Asgard like this; I'd stick out like a sore thumb!

Mobius sighs.

MOBIUS

Alright, I'll see if we have any old stuff from the Asgardian variants we've taken in. But study that book and maybe try to come up with a halfway coherent plan for sneaking in. I'll set the portal to send you back to the same moment in time once you're done, so you can take however long you need to look for the parts. But don't use that as an excuse to sight-see!

He chuckles under his breath as he walks away.

MOBIUS

"Moby"...

INT. LAMENTIS-1 TRAIN - NIGHT

Loki and Sylvie are chatting on the train.

SYLVIE

How about you? You're a prince! Must've been... would-be princesses. Or, perhaps, another prince?

LOKI

A bit of both. I suspect, the same as you. But nothing ever...

SYLVIE

Real.

LOKI

Hmm.

(Beat)

SYLVIE

What about your mortal girl? What was her name? Doreen?

Loki raises an eyebrow.

SYLVIE

She seems nice.

LOKI

Oh, I'm sure she'd appreciate that, coming from the person who practically kicked her face in.

SYLVIE

Hey, when she's on the run, a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do.

LOKI

And, no, she's... just an acquaintance. 

Sylvie raises an eyebrow and smirks.

INT. ASGARD PALACE, 1960 - NIGHT

Doreen enters the palace through a portal in a pretty, albeit slightly ill-fitting blue Asgardian dress, with her hair done up like all the other noble ladies. As she wanders around, she spots a crowd of noble ladies in ballgowns chatting and laughing while they walk. She tries to inconspicuously join the group, when a MAID calls out to her.

MAID

Um, pardon me, my lady?

Doreen freezes to see if the maid is talking to her.

MAID

Do you not have something to wear for tonight?

DOREEN

I... Um... Well, I was just going to wear this... very Asgardian dress...

MAID

Do you... have anything a little more formal? I trust you haven't forgotten that the ball is tonight?

DOREEN

Uh... Right... Yes... Of course... Um...

MAID

We have some spare dresses if you'd like to borrow one. I'm sure the queen wouldn't mind.

Doreen hesitates for a moment.

DOREEN

A-alright... Thank you.

She follows the maid into a corridor.

INT. CHANGING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Doreen sits in front of a mirror while the maid styles her hair. She has a layer of light, pretty makeup on her face.

MAID

Have you decided which dress you'd like, my lady?

DOREEN

Oh... I liked the green one.

The maid raises an eyebrow.

MAID

Are we... hoping for something?

DOREEN

Wh-what do you mean?

MAID

Well, if you're wearing the colors of Prince Loki, some might think you were... trying to get his attention.

(Beat)

DOREEN

W-will he be there?

MAID

He should. I must warn you that he detests these types of social events, though. At last winter's ball, he projected an illusion of himself in the ballroom to make it seem like he was present when he was really in his room reading books the whole night.

Doreen grins.

MAID

Shall I help you put on your dress?

DOREEN

(Lost in thought)

Yeah...

(Her head shoots up as she comes back to her senses.)

U-uh, I mean, no! No, no, no! I... I can do it myself...

INT. ASGARDIAN BALLROOM, 1960 - NIGHT

Loki is standing off to the side while Thor, Sif, and the Warriors Three talk and drink. They are all dressed in their outfits from 2011 Thor. Thor downs a mug of ale.

THOR

Another!

He smashes his drink on the ground and Loki rolls his eyes. Thor approaches him and claps him on the back - a little too hard. Loki grunts and gives him an irritated look.

THOR

Come on, brother... You could at least try to have a little fun!

Loki scoffs.

LOKI

Watching every maiden in the palace fawn over you and Fandral is not my idea of fun.

Thor laughs.

THOR

Loki... Must you be so down? You can't spend all your time shut up in your room reading all those books and doing your little magic spells.

LOKI

Why not? I'd infinitely prefer it to this.

Before Thor can say another word, Loki walks off. A SERVANT approaches him, carrying a tray with a goblet of wine on it.

SERVANT

Some wine, your highness?

Loki eagerly takes the goblet and drinks it, nearly downing the entire thing in one swig. He freezes when he sees something in the distance.

We pan up the staircase as we see Doreen descending down it, wearing an elegant green and gold dress. Her hair is done up in an intricate braid, with golden ornaments adorning it. She looks around the ballroom nervously, peering at different corridors in an attempt to find the treasure room. Never taking his eyes off her, Loki sets the goblet down on a table nearby and walks off-screen.

As Doreen makes her way across the ballroom, Tippy-Toe suddenly scurries off to a table where grapes and nuts are laid out.

DOREEN

Tippy!

(She rushes after her.)

We're supposed to be keeping a low profile!

Tippy-Toe gives her a pleading look and a few squeaks. Doreen sighs.

DOREEN

Alright, fine. But just one.

She hands Tippy-Toe a macadamia nut. As the squirrel eats her treat, we suddenly hear Loki's voice behind them. Startled, Doreen whirls around.

LOKI

As much as I'm sure your friend is pleasant company, the kitchen staff might not take kindly to seeing a rodent on the refreshment table.

Tippy-Toe cocks her head and gives him an inquisitive squeak. Loki smiles at her.

LOKI

No offense.

DOREEN

Ah... Y-You're right, um... Tippy, why don't you go eat that outside? I'll catch up with you later.

Tippy-Toe squeaks and runs off with her nut. Nervously wringing her hands, Doreen glances back at Loki, who smiles at her.

DOREEN

So, um... Are you... actually here this time, or is this just another one of your creepy illusions?

Loki smiles and extends his hand to her.

LOKI

Perhaps you should find out for yourself.

After hesitating for a moment, Doreen gingerly places her hand in his. Loki kisses the back of her hand, causing her to blush.

LOKI

I'm terribly sorry; I don't believe I caught your name?

DOREEN

U-um... Doreen.

LOKI

Well, Lady Doreen... Would you care for a dance?

DOREEN

Huh? O-oh, I, um... I-I don't... really know how...

LOKI

It's easy! I'll teach you! Here...

(He leads her into the center of the ballroom, where other couples are dancing.)

Just step forward like this... Then back... Right... Left...

Doreen glances nervously around the room as he leads her into a waltz.

LOKI

You don't have to watch what everyone else is doing; just follow my lead...

(Beat)

You're, um... You're stepping on my foot.

DOREEN

Oh, sorry!

They continue to chat as they dance.

LOKI

You know, I'm surprised a noble lady like yourself never learned to dance.

DOREEN

Oh, well, um... I don't... really like going to parties very much.

LOKI

Ah. I don't either, to be honest.

DOREEN

Then how'd you get to be so good at dancing? Are all the girls lining up to dance with the youngest prince of Asgard?

Loki laughs, embarrassed.

LOKI

Ah.... N-no, not exactly... That's... more Thor's forte. I... mostly learned from dancing with my mother.

Doreen grins.

DOREEN

Aww...

Loki laughs.

(Beat)

LOKI

You're stepping on my foot again.

DOREEN

Ack!

She takes her foot off of his.

LOKI

You know, I'm starting to think you're doing this on purpose.

DOREEN

I'm not!

After a pause, she grins devilishly and stomps on his foot, causing him to yelp in surprise.

DOREEN

Okay, maybe that was on purpose.

They both laugh. Doreen glances at his helmet.

DOREEN

That helmet looks... comfortable.

LOKI

Oh, it is.

DOREEN

Yeah, I don't believe you.

LOKI

Well, it only weighs about 30 pounds, give or take. It's like wearing a feather.

They both snicker.

DOREEN

Doesn't it ever throw you off balance?

LOKI

Not once you get used to it. You should try wearing it sometime. I'm sure you'd love it.

Doreen grins, laughing to herself.

DOREEN

Yeah, I'm sure...

LOKI

I, um... I must ask... Did you... wear green tonight deliberately? It is my favorite color, after all.

DOREEN

Oh, really? I never would've been able to tell!

They both laugh.

DOREEN

No, it, um... It's actually my favorite color, too, so...

LOKI

Ah.

DOREEN

Is that, like, something people actually do? I mean... wearing certain colors to get people to notice them?

LOKI

Well, sometimes, yes. I... admit, I... actually tried it once myself.

DOREEN

Oh yeah?

LOKI

A few years ago, there was a prince visiting from Vanaheim that I was... rather taken with. It was known that he loved silver, so I thought if I wore silver armor, I might... endear myself to him.

DOREEN

Did it work?

LOKI

(laughing)

No.

DOREEN

Well... I think you look better in green, anyway.

We cut to Thor standing with ODIN and FRIGGA on the far side of the ballroom, watching Loki and Doreen.

THOR

Mother, who is that Loki is dancing with?

FRIGGA

I'm not sure... I don't believe I've ever seen her around the palace before...

ODIN

Neither have I. I would wager she's merely the daughter of a poor social climber trying to pass himself off as a noble. Nothing to concern yourself with.

Thor grins as Odin walks off-screen.

THOR

Well, Loki seems to be finally enjoying himself...

They watch Loki twirl Doreen around as she giggles, her face flushed red. Frigga laughs.

FRIGGA

That's the first time I've seen him smile all day...

As they continue to dance, Doreen grows more nervous, suddenly unable to meet Loki's gaze, which never leaves her face. At one point, Loki places his hands around her waist and pulls her closer to him, causing her to tremble slightly. After hesitating, she gently places her hands on his shoulders. He smiles as the orchestra finishes playing.

DOREEN

How did I do?

LOKI

You're a fast learner. I'm impressed.

They smile at each other.

EXT. ASGARDIAN COURTYARD - NIGHT

Loki and Doreen chat as they walk through the garden in the palace courtyard, with Doreen drinking a cocktail in an elegant glass.

LOKI

I apologize if I come off as um... well, stiff... I have to admit this sort of thing is... well, it's rather new for me. I was never really very social growing up... Everyone always admired Thor for his physical strength, and, well... My own talents of magic and intellect are far less revered. The only friends I ever had, I met through Thor.

DOREEN

If it makes you feel any better, I didn't have any friends as a kid.

Loki raises an eyebrow.

LOKI

Not any?

Doreen shakes her head.

LOKI

Well, I... certainly wish we'd met sooner, then.

(Beat)

DOREEN

Yeah, me too.

LOKI

It's certainly never easy being an outcast... I've spent my whole life living in Thor's shadow... I know my father wishes I were more like him and his friends, but... All the brawn and muscle... It's just not who I am. I'm not like them.

DOREEN

Yeah, and, I mean, I'm sure being a frost giant and all must make you feel different, too...

Loki frowns.

LOKI

I beg your pardon?

Doreen's eyes widen, and she almost chokes on her drink.

DOREEN

U-Uh... I-I mean, um... Hypothetically speaking, if someone were... secretly a frost giant living in Asgard, that would... make them feel different, but, you know, that... wouldn't happen... ever...

She lets out a nervous laugh and sets her drink down on a nearby table as Loki blinks in confusion.

DOREEN

Anyways... What are you plans for the future if you're not first in line for the throne?

LOKI

I'm... not sure, to be honest. My parents thought I could gain some title of power by marrying me off to some other royal family, but I... don't think that's going to happen.

DOREEN

I guess it's too bad things didn't work out with that Vanaheim prince, then.

LOKI

Well, actually, I'm... rather glad they didn't now.

DOREEN

Why?

(Beat)

LOKI

Because now I've met you.

Doreen freezes and glances at him in surprise. He gives her a gentle smile in return. For a moment, she looks inexplicably happy, but once her senses return to her, her face falls and she backs away from him. Loki frowns.

LOKI

Is... something wrong?

DOREEN

I... I have to go...

LOKI

If... If I've said something wrong, I-

DOREEN

N-no! No, it's not... I... I'm sorry...

Before he can say another word, she runs away.

EXT. ASGARDIAN FOUNTAIN - MOMENTS LATER

Doreen splashes her face with water from a fountain on the other side of the courtyard, trying to pull herself together. Suddenly, Tippy-Toe runs up to her and squeaks at her.

DOREEN

Right... Parts...

INT. ODIN'S TREASURE ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Sneaking around corridors, Doreen finally finds the entrance to Odin's treasure room, which is protected by two guards.

DOREEN

(Whispering)

Okay, Tippy, you distract them while I sneak up on them from behind.

Tippy-Toe salutes, runs up to the guards, and starts playing with their armor while squeaking at them.

GUARD #1

What the-?! What is that?!

GUARD #2

It appears to be some type of squirrel...

Guard #1 tries flicking Tippy-Toe off his armor.

GUARD #1

Shoo! Begone, creature!

(He turns to the other guard.)

Do you think it's Ratatoskr?

GUARD #2

No, you fool! Ratatoskr has a horn!

Before they can say another word, Doreen strikes them both from behind. They try to attack her, but she expertly knocks them both out in one punch.

DOREEN

(to Tippy-Toe)

Let's go.

She and Tippy-Toe enter the treasure room, scanning the area for the parts. Doreen frowns in confusion when she sees Odin's fake infinity gauntlet, but is quickly distracted by the golden parts in a chest in the far end of the room.

DOREEN

Got it!

She tries picking up the parts, but as soon as she does, a shield of magic blocks the exit.

DOREEN

Oh, that's not good...

She hears footsteps and guards' voices rushing towards the treasure room. Moving quickly, she jumps up to the ceiling and kicks down the mechanism creating the shield.

DOREEN

Tippy, we gotta run!

Hiding in corridors, they slip past the guards and escape to the outside of the palace. Doreen grabs her tem-pad and opens a portal. Before she returns to the TVA, she catches a glimpse of Loki's silhouette in the distance walking around. For a moment, he seems to be looking for something, but he soon sits down on a bench, defeated, and looks at the other party guests in the distance. Squeezing her eyes shut, Doreen turns away and places a reset charge on the ground. As she and Tippy go through the portal, the reset charge disintegrates the area.

INT. TVA - DAY

Doreen and Tippy-Toe rush through the portal, causing Doreen to nearly run into Mobius, who raises an eyebrow.

DOREEN

I got the parts.

MOBIUS

I... can see that. Are you okay? What's with the getup?

DOREEN

I'm fine - There was a ball going on, so I just had to change to blend in...

(Beat)

I should... get started on fixing the locket.

Before Mobius can stop her, she rushes to another room.

INT. TVA OFFICE - DAY

Still in her ballgown, Doreen is busying inserting the parts into the locket. Mobius enters.

MOBIUS

I, uh... saw the footage of Asgard...

Doreen grits her teeth and says nothing.

MOBIUS

So... you... like Loki, huh? Gotta say, I wasn't expecting that...

DOREEN

I really don't want to talk about this.

MOBIUS

Does he know?

DOREEN

Uh, no, he doesn't, and I'd like to keep it that way.

MOBIUS

Well, I mean... I'd be lying if I said I thought you weren't an odd pair, but I guess I can see it...

Doreen clenches her jaw and ignores him.

MOBIUS

I just don't see why you're all upset over it...

Doreen slams the locket down.

DOREEN

Because! I'm gonna live, what? 80, 90 years max? Maybe a hundred if I'm lucky? That's a fraction of Loki's life! Why would he ever pay any attention to me?! If that Loki from the past knew I was just a human, he wouldn't have taken a second glance at me!

Realizing she is losing her composure, she tries to focus back on fixing the locket. 

After a moment, Mobius sits down next to her.

MOBIUS

You know, I've studied Loki's entire life. I thought I understood everything there was to know about him. But you... you stumped me. If Loki knew he was going to die at the hands of Thanos, why did he trust you to be the one to bring him back to life? And then, it hit me... It's because he knows you're different. He knows that you know what it's like to be an outcast. He could sense it, just from meeting you, that you would be the first stranger he ever met that wouldn't see him as an enemy.

After a pause, Doreen shakes her head.

DOREEN

Even if I could believe that... it wouldn't matter. I'm never going to live long enough to be a part of his life.

(Beat)

MOBIUS

You know, when you've worked at the TVA for as long as I have, you tend to get a bit of a perspective on these types of things. Doreen... It's not about how much time we have... It's what we do with our time while we have it that matters. And you may not believe me, but I know you've made a difference in his life. You never doubted him, even when you had every right to. And that's always going to stick with him, even long after you're gone.

Doreen looks down and says nothing. After a moment, Mobius stands up.

MOBIUS

Well... make of it what you will. I'm gonna go ask the other agents if they've found any leads-

Suddenly, the locket clicks open.

DOREEN

It's fixed!

(She hands it to Mobius.)

Here, let that charge at a good power source for a little bit. Once it's at 100%, you should be able to see where Loki is.

MOBIUS

Okay, great. We'll get a task force ready to go get him.

DOREEN

Can I come?

MOBIUS

Ravonna would rather you stay here. She doesn't want a non-variant being put at an unnecessary risk.

Doreen's face falls, but she nods. Mobius exits. Doreen sits back at a computer and starts to look through files. She comes across a tab that reads "AGENT PROFILES", but when she tries to access it, she gets a message that reads "ERROR: RESTRICTED". Glancing over her shoulder, she checks to make sure no one else is in the room and begins typing.

INT. RAVONNA'S OFFICE - DAY

As Ravonna sits at her desk, she receives a holographic message that reads "WARNING: DATA BREACH DETECTED". She clenches her jaw.

INT. TVA OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER

Doreen is reading files on her computer. As she continues to read, her eyes widen, with her expression growing more and more horrified. Suddenly, she turns back to the door.

DOREEN

Mobius?!

When there is no response, she tries to exit the room and follow after Mobius, but a gate of lasers suddenly blocks her path. As she glances at it, confused, Ravonna opens a portal into the room and strikes her from behind, knocking her out.

SYLVIE SMIRKS ‘CAUSE SHE KNOWS HE LYIN

So yeah, I took a lot of inspiration for the ballroom scene from the Laendler scene from The Sound of Music. I imagined Loki and Doreen’s relationship being a lot like The Captain and Maria, ‘cause I’m a huge sucker for the hardened grouch going soft for the innocent, lighthearted dreamer trope lol :P

I also listened to the song “When the Night is Over” by Lord Huron a lot when writing that scene. It’s very sad and haunting if you think of it as Loki’s POV after Doreen runs away.

Finally, I am officially dubbing the Doreen x Loki pairing “Dorki”, and I shall henceforth be tagging these posts as such!

@drawntothedarkside

[degenderates]

The Essence of Vulnerability

Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays @fangirlsleep​ !! I was your Loki Secret Santa for @worstloki​ ‘s Loki exchange! 💕 💕 I wrote for you a Sigyn/Loki one shot; I hope you enjoy it!

Fandom: Marvel Ship/Characters: Sigyn/Loki, a bit of Sif, a bit of Thor Rating: Teen Tags/Warnings: angst (with a happy ending), hurt/comfort, touch-starved loki, sexual tension, a bit of fluff

NOTE: This fic draws from elements of the MCU, Agent of Asgard, Norse Mythology, & Loki: Where Mischief Lies. Sigyn’s characterization comes from the original mythology, as I’ve not read the comics with her! (yet.) Themes of her & Loki’s connection are touched on as soulmate-related, and her intense loyalty plays a factor in their relationship ‘drama.’ It’s also a happy ending, but there’s a little angst first!

The link to read it on ao3 is here since it’s a bit on the long side for a tumblr post, but other than that, here we go!

Before everything, before the raid on New York City, before Thor was banished to Midgard, before he knew his true heritage, Loki was only a little boy desperate for the praise of his father. As a toddler, he would totter around behind his older brother’s much more massive frame, grinning when Thor gave him scraps of his attention and only just remembering to keep his cool when Odin praised him, for once. It wasn’t Thor’s fault then—at least, Loki didn’t think so, now—for he had just been idolizing his father as Loki had, and had treated his younger brother accordingly.

When he was a teenager, strutting around in the 12-inch-high lace-up heels he had stolen from Amora’s wardrobe, he pretended that he was immune to criticism, immune to the way that he was beginning to be regarded in the eyes of the Asgardian people. The Trickster. Untrustworthy. The God of Mischief. The God of Lies.

But despite all that, he was vulnerable, deep on the inside. And it wasn’t until Sigyn came into his life many years later that he finally began to let it go, millimeter by painful millimeter.

He first saw her at one of Odin’s grandiose feasts, amusing herself in the corner with Sif, the two of them happily chatting away. Well, Sif looked more than slightly antsy, Loki had to admit, with her fingers tapping quickly on her basic plated armor and her lips twisted in an impatient expression. He chuckled to himself, noting how she always preferred action rather than idle chatter.

The other girl, however, was serene, her soft brown skin contrasting the dyed paleness of her long, frizzy hair, creating a glowing effect. The lanterns around the room caught on the highlights of her cheekbones, and Loki was immediately spellbound, his mouth falling open slightly as he watched her smile and laugh politely at a joke Sif had just made.

Finally, the young warrior managed to slip away, and Loki seized his opportunity, sliding into the seat Sif had just left behind. Adopting the easy confidence that the public usually saw him exude—so different from the momentary brain collapse he had just experienced when seeing this girl for the first time just minutes ago—Loki grinned. “Well, hello, darling.”

“My prince,” she replied with the cordiality he had expected. Her dark eyes flashed as she looked at him, then, almost as if she knew his secret. “Do you not have duties to attend to?”

Loki fought the urge to scoff rudely. “I have better things to do than greet party guests.” He winked at her, hoping that this would garner some reaction.

To his surprise, it did. The girl’s eyes crinkled as her lips turned up in an embarrassed smile. “You can’t mean me, my prince.”

“Oh, but I do,” he murmured in reply, reaching forward to caress her fingers. Outwardly, he was a perfect Asgardian gentleman. Inwardly, Loki was shouting at the top of his lungs. He wasn’t sure why he was so riled up, so intrigued by this girl—this woman—but he continued smoothly as if he knew exactly what he was meant to do. “What is your name, my dear?”

“I am Lady Sigyn,” she replied softly, allowing him to bring her knuckles to his mouth and kiss them. Her own lips quirked as he did so, and Loki felt the same whooshing feeling he’d felt moments ago when he had been watching her converse with Sif. “A pleasure to meet you in person, Prince Loki.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Lady Sigyn,” he said to her simply. “I do trust that you’ve enjoyed the feast so far?”

Sigyn narrowed her eyes at him. “Please don’t tell me you are going to use our entire evening together to make small talk.”

Loki sighed. “You’re right.” Standing abruptly from his chair, he offered his hand once more. “Shall we?”

***

The courtyard outside the great hall was quiet and dark, night stars giving soft light to the smooth stone pavement and reflecting on the tiny drooping leaves of the willows. It suited both Loki and Sigyn more than the bustling Asgardian roar inside the party, Loki thought. He could gladly spend days here in solitude without needing anything but himself. And perhaps, if he was lucky, Sigyn’s company.

“So, Prince Loki,” Sigyn began, once the happy shouts had died out behind them, and the only sounds left were the rustling of the leaves on the loose branches, “your reputation precedes you.”

He raised an eyebrow at her, otherwise expressionless. “Does it?”

Sigyn’s mouth slowly curled into a knowing smile, eyes brightening with a sparkle that made Loki’s heart catch. She tilted her head to the side, blinking slowly. Loki’s mouth parted. He couldn’t breathe. Slowly, Sigyn’s hand fell to his forearm, tickling him through the thin tunic that covered his skin. Loki smiled despite himself, covering her hand with his and bringing it to his mouth to kiss it.

“You are lovely, Lady Sigyn,” he murmured to her softly.

She stepped closer. “What mischief are you here for this time, Trickster?”

The nickname both sent a flood of affection through him, strangely enough, and brought him back to the whispers of the Asgardians. They feared him, but Sigyn? Her voice held a soft murmur of trust inlaid with the tones of song it inflected, and the expression on her countenance was nothing less than unadulterated faith.

“I—” his voice died on his lips, and Loki swallowed. No one had ever been able to do this to him before, to steal his so-called ‘silver tongue’ right from his mouth. And he had just met Sigyn, who he was sure would one day become a goddess, and she had done what everyone had only dreamt of doing. She had left him utterly speechless.

Sigyn smiled knowingly at his stunned silence, brushing aside a lock of his wavy black hair from his shoulders and twirling it in her fingers. “I hope I am not too forward, my prince.”

“Not at all,” he replied, the sounds rushing out in one breath.

“Good.” She looked rather embarrassed despite herself, dark skin hiding a blush as she turned her head down. Loki could still feel her smile as she stepped even closer, the caress of her fingers on his hair trailing down to his shoulders, where heavy plates of ceremonial armor encapsulated his limbs, making his physique appear more impressive.

“So this is new to you?” he murmured as she leaned into him, the two of them beginning to sway to the music that had long faded from their ears. It was imaginary, of course, and for a moment, Loki was sure that this was imaginary, too, for Odin was constantly berating him about his ‘princely duties’ and comparing him to Thor. This wouldn’t give him any points, he was sure. But he didn’t really care.

Sigyn looked up at him, the starlight lighting the sparks in her dark eyes. “Am I that obvious?”

Loki grinned at her, shaking his head. “I hope not to make fun of you, my lady.”

“I’m afraid you have failed at that, your highness.”

“Please,” he said. “Just Loki.”

Sigyn nodded her head respectfully. “If you say.” But she couldn’t hold her straight face for long, and soon she descended into quiet laughter, laying her head on Loki’s shoulder. Surprised, he stiffened, unsure of what to do.

It wasn’t that he was new to the sensation. No, Loki had gone much further than this, with many men and women. He wasn’t untouched. He wasn’t a virgin.

And though it may have felt cliché to admit it to himself, Sigyn made him feel as if everything was new again.

They talked for at least an hour, and Loki thanked the rest of the pantheon that Sif had most likely kept Thor and the others busy, so they would not come looking for them. He learned of Sigyn’s arts, her proficiency at music and the composition of her own songs, her hopes to one day play professionally. Unfortunately, it was not befitting of someone of her status to do such a thing, only as a side hobby.

Deeper and deeper they went into the garden, crossing the grand bridge from Valhalla’s courtyard to the lair of Frigga’s wilder plants, lush greenery sprouting uncontained around them.

“Have I known you before?” he asked her, voice hoarse as he turned his head to look at her. “In a dream, Lady Sigyn?”

“If I am to call you Loki, your highness, you must treat me with the same regard.”

He fixed her with a mock-stern glare. “If you say.”

Her eyebrows shot up; he had just nearly perfectly mimicked her exact tone as she had said the same words to him. Using her surprise to his advantage, he pressed his lips to the high rise of her cheekbone, fingers inserting themselves under her round face to lift her chin. “And this is how I leave you speechless.”

He could feel her breath catching. “And now Silvertongue has stepped forward at last,” she murmured, voice shaky, though still smiling.

“Indeed.” But it was false arrogance. He couldn’t take his eyes away from her or quell the pounding of his heart. It was such a foreign feeling, to have this reaction to something positive for once, and not the palpitating fear of an oncoming torrent of lectures from Odin about why Thor was right and he, Loki, was wrong. But Sigyn was something else, a whole entirety of a realm he had yet to explore.

Slowly, he took her head in his hands, admiring the way that her hair fluffed out around it. “As many people as I have met in this life,” Loki whispered, “I have never seen one as beautiful as you.”

Those were the last words emitted from his mouth before he kissed her, lips locking with hers effortlessly, a slight turn of his head, and a hand on the small of her back.

Sigyn was good at kissing, he realized, not only endowed with blessed plush lips but a skillful tongue, and when her eyes finally opened to meet his, and they pulled apart reluctantly, she looked embarrassed for it to be so.

“My dear,” Loki whispered. “That was amazing.”

“Shall we do it again?” There was a challenge in her question.

Loki didn’t answer her, instead leaning into her calling touch once more. The kiss went deeper this time, and he found himself pressing closer to her, hands traveling from her back and the side of her cheek to slide down her figure and onto her hips. Sigyn moaned into the kiss, her own hands entangling in his black hair where it spilled out from under his headdress of large golden horns.

Soon enough, he found that they had managed to lodge themself awkwardly onto one of the courtyard’s hidden benches, the stone of it strewn with fallen cherry blossoms. “Sigyn,” he pleaded, kissing her forehead, her nose, each of her blessed eyelids. “How have you bewitched me in such a short few moments?”

“Perhaps it was meant to be,” she replied back simply, straddling him on the stone bench. A cherry blossom had fallen onto her nearly-white hair, trapped in its tight curls. Loki adjusted it gently, breathing hard. He willed himself to stay calm, to not bring his body too far.

It was hard to do so when she moved on top of him, eyes closed in bliss as she embraced him and pushed him back flat so that he was staring up at the night sky. “I have no idea why,” Sigyn said, “but I have complete and utter trust in you.” She shook her head, laughing to herself. “I find myself at a loss to my body’s own will.”

“Your body’s?” he quipped, mischief apparent in his tone. “My dear, what would Asgard dare say if we were found without any excuse for why we are so entangled?”

He felt her face heat up against the palm of his hand. “That’s—that’s not exactly what I had meant,” she admitted. “Though your assertion is also true.” The admittance was made with a downturn of her eyes, a smile gracing that luscious mouth. “But no—I just cannot believe how vulnerable I am letting myself be. Physically. Emotionally.”

He stared at her, a slight nod of his head willing her to continue to speak.

Sigyn sighed. “My mother has set me on track to become the Goddess of Victory,” she murmured quietly. “And it’s not that I do not wish for the honor, simply that I feel I am not prepared. Or the right person to represent that honor. Victory comes with a clanging of bells, the shouts of warriors in a celebratory feast, bright decorations and a sense of fulfillment.”

“And?” Loki asked her gently.

Her lips twitch unpleasedly. “Can you not already tell that I am none of those things? I am quiet, and though I make strong bonds and can talk for hours, it takes a toll on my system. I stay on the sidelines, and I have shied away from those warriors’ feasts. I only came to this one because of my mother’s pleading. It was becoming unbearable.”

Loki chuckled. “I know the feeling. You must know that I only attend because I am the prince, yes?”

Sigyn nodded, the smile returning to her face. Loki kissed her chastely. “But you are perfect for the role of Goddess of Victory, darling,” he said once he’d pulled away. “If you were boisterous like my brother, you would be far too fiery. Things could go sour. But you—you are humble and kind and wise. I can already tell. And so it suits you.”

“Thank you,” Sigyn said after a moment, voice soft, making his heart melt for what felt like the millionth time, and Loki couldn’t help but lift her from where she sat on his lap, carrying her bridal style onto the grass and laying down next to her. He planted soft kisses on her jaw and neck, traveling down to her collarbone with slight hesitance, each movement waiting for her approval.

“Wait,” she said when he moved to slip a sleeve off of her shoulder.

Loki immediately sat back, heart pounding in his chest. Had he hurt her?

Seeing his expression, she took his hand in hers, running a thumb along the back of it gently. “It’s not that,” she told him. “I just...I’ve opened up so much to you. And you so little to me.” She sounded embarrassed even as she admitted it.

Loki grimaced. “I—I’m sorry. That was terrible of me.”

She met his gaze, raising her eyebrows. “Well?”

“I can’t...right now,” Loki admitted with a sigh.

Sigyn pursed her lips. “I trust myself to you, and you pull my footing out from under me, and then you leave me alone in this way?” She didn’t mean physically, he knew, but that she had exposed herself emotionally to him, and he was not doing the same. “It’s no wonder they call you the Trickster.”

Eyeing his signature green tunic with disdain—green, the color that had recently become fashionable to associate with lies and deceit—Sigyn let out a sigh. “I should have not expected more.”

Something burned in Loki’s chest as she stood and walked away, but he did not follow her. He felt terrible for having unintentionally hurt her, and the feeling threatened to consume him, to swallow him. Shame.

***

It was weeks before Loki saw Sigyn again, though it felt like years. He was centuries old, but the feeling that irked him over the time as it passed made him feel like he was a child again, or a Midgardian. He supposed that to be one was to be the other.

She was a little less polished this time, her bleached frizz of hair pulled into tight braids that lined her head and came together in an elaborate bun in the back. Though she wore a simple gown, dark red and sleeveless, she was still stunning, long lashes lowering in the expected cordiality as Loki and Thor passed. She was the daughter in the court, and he was the prince.

That was...the only thing it was. And it was Loki’s fault that the cards had fallen in such a way. He felt terrible, and Sigyn had been completely right. He did hold every emotion and memory tucked away in a part of his heart even he didn’t want to access. Who would want to open themself to someone like that?

So when he saw her this time, he couldn’t make eye contact with her, instead focusing his gaze straight ahead. The helmet that caressed the sharp slope of his cheeks certainly helped; his peripheral vision was well-hidden.

Still, Loki could acutely feel the turmoil radiating from her as they nearly brushed in the hall. He wanted to reach out, to take her hand. And then the moment was gone.

“Brother, are you well?” Thor asked, pulling Loki from his reverie. Loki started, flinching with near violence. “What?” he asked.

“I asked if you were well,” Thor repeated, sounding bewildered. “You seem distracted. And angry. Who has wronged you?”

A great many people had wronged him, in fact. But Loki was not about to begin an argument. He didn’t quite have the energy for it. So he simply sighed. “I’m only fraught with myself, brother.”

Thor nodded, lip jutting out as he thought. “Well, don’t hesitate to talk to me about it.”

“Thank you,” Loki said, and he meant it. “I might.” He wouldn’t, though. It was not something that Thor would understand, because his brother did not know that he was in fact part of the problem. Sure, Odin was the root of the poison, the poison that Loki clinged to as if it was water and he was a parched man emerging from the desert. But Thor was favored, the golden child in every sense of the world. Loki would be naive not to recognize that. His brother did not have the same world as he.

And so, he smiled, wishing that he could change things.

“If you need some time alone, be on your way, brother,” Thor told him, a large hand falling heavy on Loki’s shoulder. “I can report on the mission without you.”

“But—” Loki began to protest, feeling himself grasping at strings that were being pulled from his lithe fingers. He needed to prove that he was competent—perhaps, this time, Odin would understand how essential Loki was—

“Take some time off. You work too hard,” Thor interrupted, and the last strands were yanked away.

There would be other opportunities. Hopefully.

Loki squeezed his eyes shut, opened them again, removed Thor’s large hand from his shoulder with a begrudging smile, and pivoted. Fine, then.

Sigyn was waiting for him when he returned. She hadn’t left the spot in the corridor where they had almost touched, and her eyes were still filled to the brim with that flinty glare. It was...intoxicating. Even though she was mad at him, Loki wanted more of it, that expression of steel, he wanted her close to him and those eyes right in front of his, on top of him…

Shaking his head, Loki cleared his throat and gave her his best dazzling grin.

Sigyn stared back at him, unimpressed.

He was silent for a moment more. Then— “Can we talk?”

Sigyn nodded, turned, and led him down the hall. To his surprise, she held out her hand, and he took it gladly, following her. She squeezed his hand, and he felt the ice—or warmth, perhaps?—inside of him melt further. He was so lonely. Thor’s boisterous shoves and Frigga’s light brushes sometimes weren’t enough.

They reached an empty room of the palace. Loki shut the door behind him quietly, but as soon as he turned, Sigyn was upon him, pressing him to the wall with a finger on his lips. “I don’t care if or when you will open your soul to me,” she whispered, want overflowing from her words. “I need you, Loki. It was only one evening we spent together and yet I cannot imagine myself as anything but devoted to you.”

Loki’s eyes burned. “I’m sorry,” he murmured as her head tucked itself under the crook of his neck. “I missed you so much, my dearest Sigyn.” Her name came out as little more than a breath on his lips, the sound of it reverent. He said it again: “Sigyn, Sigyn.”

“You don’t have to tell me anything about your pain right now,” she told him, and pressed her lips to his. “But please, when you are ready…”

“I will.” The admittance was overwhelming. He couldn’t bare himself to her all at once, but he would over time.

Eventually, Sigyn would know about Odin’s high expectations of him, the ever-present competition between him and Thor, the question of who was to obtain the throne. Loki fully expected that Thor would be the one, but he didn’t understand why he was still expected to play along. And yet, like a foolish peasant searching for the end of a rainbow, he did.

Eventually, Sigyn would know about the way his magic sometimes consumed him, making it impossible to breathe, the way it sparked from his chest and bled into his brain. He wanted to hide from it, wherever he could, and yet he wanted it more than anything; it was the only thing that made him special. It was his lifeline, and his connection to his mother. But it was oh, so complicated.

Eventually, Sigyn would know about the future Odin had seen for him in the God’s Eye Mirror, the terrible end of Asgard and the infinite ways in which it would come to pass, each borne of his hand. No matter what Loki had done to stop it in the past, was doing now, and would do in the future.

That. That was what scared him above all.

But for now, he didn’t tell her of any of it. She trusted him, and he was infinitely thankful for it. No one had ever trusted him, and her loyalty was unparalleled. He whispered that in her ear, his thankfulness, voice shaky as she kissed his neck.

When their gazes met again, sharp green meeting almost pitch-black, Loki could have cried. “Sigyn…”

“You thank me?” she asked sardonically. “I didn’t know.” He had told her at least five times now.

Despite himself, Loki smiled. “Yes,” he said. “And I will tell you everything. One day, I promise, my love.”

“Love?” she echoed.

“Love,” said Loki, sure of himself as the word laid itself comfortably on his tongue. “We are new to each other, yes, but still...I can tell that you and I are meant for each other.”

Sigyn raised an eyebrow. “Do you believe in soulmates?”

Loki didn’t know, but he kissed her anyway, soft and slow and savoring every moment of it. And at the end of it, with her soft breaths on his skin, fingers ghosting along his face under the plating of his helmet, and trust radiating from her spirit through the air like its own type of magic, maybe he did.

I hope you liked it friend!! It was a pleasure to write for you this Christmas 💕  have a safe and happy holiday!  💕