The Father
"Damn it..." I sighed inwardly, my gaze fixed upon the test.
I had followed the instructions to the letter. For exactly three minutes, I had been waiting for the result, my breath shallow, confined within the bathroom. Normally, I only lingered in this place for the mundane tasks, constrained by my mortal condition. I already considered it degrading to sit upon this peculiar throne ever since I had become human, but emptying my insides every morning took it to an entirely different level. Equally repulsive, indeed, for no food that this body ingested seemed willing to be digested. At the first light of dawn, I had developed the habit of rushing to the bathroom to expel the remnants of last night's meal.
Tony was usually already in his laboratory by this hour. With the operational force field, Earth now enjoyed an unparalleled protection. Tony had tirelessly worked for several months to elevate this shield. Every detail of this technology was meticulously designed, every flaw scrutinized and rectified relentlessly.
Thus, he hadn't been witness to my glorious morning purges. I had made Jarvis promise not to reveal my ailment to his creator. Although the term "ailment" wasn't entirely appropriate to describe my condition...
The minutes stretched on endlessly as I stared at the small stick. And there, under the yellowish glow of the bathroom neon lights, the distinct little mark finally appeared, showing two parallel lines. Positive.
"No," my mind screamed. "Not again."
I passed a trembling hand over my forehead, feeling sweat bead upon my skin. Questions swirled in my head, magnified by the fear of the unknown.
"What if he doesn't want the child?" my consciousness cried deep within me. "What if this body cannot sustain pregnancy?"
Painful memories resurfaced, bringing me back to the time when I held a stillborn child in my arms. And now, as I faced the possibility of a new life growing within my womb, all those old wounds seemed to resurface.
A visceral need to protect the child suddenly surged within me. Anxieties jostled in my mind, heavy and unsettling.
The threat of being rejected by its father, the one I loved with all my being, was one of the most heart-wrenching possibilities. His reaction, his refusal to acknowledge this child, sent shivers of apprehension down my spine. But that wasn't my only source of concern. The Chitauri, those relentless invaders, still awaited their moment to colonize Earth, and now I bore the responsibility for a vulnerable being, someone who would depend entirely on me for its safety.
And then there was Thanos, lurking in the darkest corners of the universe, waiting for me to make the slightest misstep, seeking to exploit my weaknesses to accomplish his destructive goals.
A sob caught in my throat. I had already experienced loss, the gut-wrenching mourning of a stillborn child, and I refused to accept that it might happen again.
As I made my way to the living room with uncertain steps, I tried my best to mask my worries. The fewer people who knew about the child, the better its chances of survival. I was deeply convinced of that.
A memory of Thor, joking with his friends as I nursed a newborn foal, suddenly flashed in my mind. My body hadn't endured carrying a child back then. I was probably too young. A few hours after giving birth, the pain in my breasts had been unbearable. Sigyn had come then, bringing with her a wretchedly deformed foal. The poor creature was born with eight legs, and no stable in Asgard wanted it. It was already disgraceful enough that I, supposed to be the Prince of Asgard, a man, had borne a child. But seeing me nursing a monstrous foal had further tarnished my reputation. Thor and his comrades had made sure of that personally.
I had named him Sleipnir. I didn't know if my milk had divine properties, but the animal became the most impressive mount in Asgard. I had developed a very special bond with him, and although he could never replace my baby, he had become dear to me.
Now, facing this new pregnancy, I couldn't help but fear that history would repeat itself, that my body wouldn't be capable of carrying the child to term, that complications might arise, endangering the life of this little being.
I walked toward the couch, joining the other members of the team who appeared relaxed and engaged in a lively conversation. My heart raced, and I tried to keep my composure as I sat down. Tony gave me a sharp look, but I quickly averted my eyes, hoping he wouldn't notice anything amiss.
As I blended into the conversation, every passing second felt like an eternity. I wished I could confide, share my concerns with them, but the fear of their reaction, their judgment, held me back. I felt alone, torn between the need to protect the forthcoming child and the desire to turn to my friends for comfort and support.
"Are you alright, Loki?" Bruce asked with a concerned tone. "You look terribly pale."
During the past seven months spent together, I had gotten into the habit of communicating with them using sign language. Each Avenger had made it a point to diligently learn the silent language I used to converse with them.
"I'm fine," I signed with a smile that I hoped was reassuring. "I just didn't sleep very well."
"Would you like me to make you some coffee?" Tony asked, quickly getting up from his chair.
"No, thank you, Tony," I signed hastily. "It's not good for the baby," I thought bitterly.
Suddenly, I noticed Natasha's gaze on me, and I quickly withdrew my hand from my belly. I hadn't realized my instinctive gesture, and I would have to be cautious with the spy around. She was as observant as Sigyn.
"Now I know you're really sick!" Bruce exclaimed worriedly. "I've never heard you refuse coffee until today!"
Tony firmly held my chin, forcing me to look into his eyes.
"What's wrong, my love?" he asked, his eyes shimmering with concern. "I can see you're barely eating. Is something bothering you?"
"There's no problem! Everything is perfectly fine in the best of worlds!" I signed with more vehemence.
"For an ex-god of lies," Clint chimed in, "I find you're not very good at lying. Even I can see that you're not in your usual state, Loki."
Clint's words struck me like one of his arrows. Of course, as a master of manipulation and lies, I had always managed to conceal my true emotions behind a mask of confidence and indifference. But today, facing my friends, I felt vulnerable, incapable of keeping my emotions to myself.
"I... I'm sorry," I signed with a trembling hand, my eyes moist with tears that I refused to let fall. "It's just that... there's so much going on right now."
As Steve gently placed his hand on my shoulder, I felt a soothing warmth spread through the pit of my stomach. I had always been distant with my family, preferring to keep my troubles to myself, but since joining the Avengers, they had managed to break through the armor I had worked so hard to build.
"I'll make some pancakes!" declared the soldier cheerfully, lightening the mood. "My pancakes can make you forget all your worries!"
"With that slogan, you could start your own brand!" Tony joked.
A smile crossed my face, although my thoughts couldn't help but return to my current situation.
Seated at the large table, we resumed lighter discussions, as if trying to momentarily escape reality. Tony continued to gently stroke my back, seeking to comfort me. I knew he only wanted to be there for me, but the thought of worrying him weighed heavily on me.
When Steve proudly placed a plate of pancakes on the table, a wave of disgust washed over me. The smell of any food had become unbearable to me. I tried to mask my reaction, but my complexion must have shifted from white to green, as they all quickly got up from their seats, concerned.
"Bruce! We need to get him to the infirmary!" Tony demanded, taking me by the arm.
Damn it, why couldn't I be normal for once? Everything had been so perfect these past few months. I had friends, a family that accepted me for who I was. Why did it have to be taken away from me again? Once more, my body seemed to betray me. My magic couldn't keep the child in my womb healthy. I had some theories about it, but every conceivable solution terrified me. If my Aesir or even human body couldn't carry the pregnancy to term, perhaps it was because they simply weren't designed to create life. I was Jotun, and it must be in a Jotun body that I had to give birth to my child.
I didn't know when I had closed my eyes, but when I opened them again, I was already on a bed in the infirmary, Tony holding my hand with concern.
I gave him a tired smile. He didn't deserve this, my beloved. I loved him so much that my heart could have imploded within my chest.
"I'm sorry, Tony," I signed. "I didn't mean to cause you any worry."
Tony gently pulled me into his arms, enveloping me in comforting warmth. "Loki, you know how much I love you, don't you? I can promise you, no matter the problem, I'll be here for you. I'll never abandon you," he murmured.
I buried my face in his neck, releasing a stifled sob. Tears finally flowed, and we remained that way for a few moments, simply cherishing each other's comforting presence.
Finally, reluctantly, I pulled away from him to look him in the eyes.
"Odin knew, he knew I could never carry the baby," I signed with jerky movements. "And today, history repeats itself. I'm trapped in this body, and it's going to kill the child growing in my belly."
I knew the Avengers were all present in the room, but only Tony's reaction mattered to me at that moment. His eyes widened, shifting from my face to my abdomen. His mind seemed to struggle to comprehend what was happening, and I didn't blame him. While we had indulged in some recklessness while I bore feminine physiological traits, the idea of procreation was certainly beyond his belief.
"I don't know how this body could conceive a child, but I know I can't keep it." I signed with a hint of despair in my gestures. "My body isn't suited for it, and it's putting the baby at risk..."
Suddenly, Tony interrupted my frantic speech by gently taking my hands in his.
"Loki, are you trying to tell me that... you're pregnant?" His voice trembled slightly, trying to contain the emotion that threatened to overwhelm him.
With a slow, resigned nod, I confirmed it, tears continuing to stream freely down my cheeks.
"And if I understand correctly... this isn't the first time this has happened to you?"
Like a robot, I shook my head, my gaze lost in space.
"I didn't know it was possible back then," I explained, hands trembling. "I was a Jotun raised among the Aesir. A Prince had never been seen to become pregnant before me. But my Aesir form wasn't ideal for carrying a child, and I lost it. I don't know how long my magic will be able to keep this baby alive. I swear to you, Tony, I never thought I could conceive again. There was so much blood the last time. The healer said I was lucky to survive."
"Are you saying that... Your family knew you could conceive children, but they never warned you, and it nearly cost you your life?" he asked with a voice laden with indignation. "And here I thought all those Norse legends sounded screwed up! But reality is even worse than fiction! What will you tell me next? That they married you off to a horse and sewed your mouth shut?"
Tony's words froze my entire being. I suddenly regretted not paying attention to the rumors that Thor had spread among the Nine Realms about me. A wave of nausea swept over me, and my companions' voices seemed distant, drowned in the torrent of my chaotic thoughts.
"Loki? Loki, can you hear me?" Tony exclaimed, gripping my shoulders, trying to bring me back to reality.
I desperately tried to catch my breath, but my thoughts inevitably returned to Svaðilfari, to that night when I had been forced to fulfill my duty for the sake of Asgard's preservation. Odin's words, Thor's laughter echoed in my mind again, rekindling a pain I had tried to bury for a long time.
"Svaðilfari asks only one thing as payment for building the divine palace," Odin had declared from his golden throne.
Painful memories overwhelmed me, plunging me back to a time when I had been used like a common reward. The humiliation of that night, when I had been nothing more than an object for the builder's desires.
"It shouldn't be too difficult a task to perform!" Thor had exclaimed, laughing. "This builder seems as Ergi as you are!"
I had struggled to accept being touched again after that. Svaðilfari hadn't been gentle...
Steve's soothing voice suddenly pierced the veil of my thoughts, reminding me of where I was and who I was with.
"Loki? Can you hear me?" he said gently. "You're having a panic attack. Please, breathe with me."
I took a deep breath, trying to focus on Steve's breath. His calm and steady voice acted like a lifeline.
Tony tightened his embrace around me, making me feel safe in his arms. I could feel his heart beating against mine.
"I'm sorry, my love, I'm sorry..." he repeated tirelessly in my ear.
Natasha's gentle hand came to tenderly caress my hair.
"I'll make them pay," she whispered in a dark voice. "I'll make them regret being immortal, for they shall suffer for eternity..."
From a corner of the infirmary, Bruce stood by the bedrail, seeming to wrestle with the anger simmering within him.
"Loki," Clint suddenly addressed me, breaking his silence. "Do you want this child?"
I sat up on the bed with determination, every fiber of my being shouting the answer.
"Of course!" I signed quickly. "This baby is a part of Tony! I could never willingly part with it!"
An eloquent silence settled in the infirmary as my words resonated in everyone's minds. I could feel their gazes filled with a newfound understanding.
And then, suddenly, a whispered voice behind me made me turn around. It was Tony, standing there with eyes filled with both wonder and apprehension.
"I'm going to be a dad..." he murmured with a radiant smile.
A wave of happiness washed over me at the sound of his simple words.
"My friends, a courtesy visit is in order!" Tony declared suddenly. "Who's up for paying a divine ass-kicking visit to dear old dad? My significant other needs to become a Djinn again to carry our child..."
*
Though five months passed with alarming swiftness, I hadn't expected to return to Asgard so soon. All my missions with the Avengers had been canceled after the team learned of my condition. Then miraculously, Tony managed to establish communication with Thor. The Bifrost would activate for our group as soon as Steve signaled to Heimdall.
Tension hung in the air as we prepared to cross the rainbow bridge. My heart was tight with apprehension, fearing that Odin might not allow me to return to Earth once I set foot in the realm of the gods. The last time I had set foot on Asgard, it was under very different circumstances. I had discovered my Jotun heritage, renounced Odin and Frigga, and then jumped into the void.
But things had changed since then. I had found my place among the Avengers, and most importantly, I had found love with Tony. For several months, we had actively protected the blue planet that had become my home.
"Ready to go?" Steve asked, breaking the silence that had settled.
I nodded, squeezing Tony's hand in mine. We had faced so many dangers together, but this time, we were confronting something different. Returning to Asgard meant that painful memories would resurface, and I wasn't sure how the Asgardians would receive me after all this time.
The Bifrost illuminated, and the sensation of freefall enveloped us as we were transported through space and time.
An odd nostalgia washed over me as the familiar landscape of Asgard unfolded before us.
When we landed, we were greeted by Heimdall, his piercing gaze scanning each member of the team before he nodded in greeting.
Then, without warning, a familiar silhouette rushed toward me, enveloping me in a hug.
"What possessed you to do that!" Sigyn exclaimed suddenly, shaking me by the shoulders. "Why did you throw yourself off the bridge? Do you know how much I cried for you? We all thought you were dead!"
I simply lowered my eyes to the ground, ashamed of having caused her so much pain.
Sigyn cupped my face in her hands so I could look her in the eyes.
"We thought you were lost forever, Loki. But I'm relieved you're back. So much has changed in your absence..." she added, smiling timidly.
In turn, I offered her a faint smile, then stepped back to allow her to meet Tony and the others.
"You must be Tony!" Sigyn exclaimed enthusiastically. "Loki has told me so much about you, about all of you, I feel like I already know you!"
Her eyes then lingered on Steve, casting him a curious look. The soldier shifted uncomfortably on his feet, still as ill at ease with ladies as ever. I couldn't help but silently chuckle as I saw my friend blush when the goddess greeted him with a bear hug.
The rest of the group stepped forward to introduce themselves to Sigyn, who welcomed them with warm hospitality.
Thor arrived shortly after.
"Loki, my brother, you have returned," the thunder god exclaimed with palpable emotion. "We have missed you greatly."
It was hard to believe my ears. Thor genuinely seemed happy to see me, but I couldn't help but flinch when he tried to embrace me.
"Don't come near him," Tony scolded him sternly, sensing my discomfort.
Thor seemed surprised by Tony's reaction, but he complied, looking at me with a mix of concern and distress.
"I'm sorry, Loki," he said with a voice full of regret. "I have much to tell you, but I understand you need time."
We were led to the palace amid a thunderous applause from the Asgardians, who welcomed our procession by the thousands. I found it hard to grasp what was happening. Even Thor hadn't received such a reception upon his returns from campaigns.
"I told them that on Earth, you had become a respected god," Thor said with a timid smile.
The warm welcome and attention I received from the Asgardians were bewildering. After all, I was still the same flawed Prince and Ergi. Nothing had changed except Thor's sweet words to soothe their minds.
In the grand hall of the palace, palpable tension filled the air as we were finally presented to Odin, with Frigga by his side. Tony didn't hide his displeasure at how my adoptive father had treated me. None of the team members kneeled before the Allfather either.
"Welcome to Valhalla!" Odin proclaimed with a powerful voice. "Normally, we only welcome heroes in their death, but you have fought bravely to defend your planet, and we have decided to recognize your great worth in your lifetime!"
Tony then took the lead, stepping forward toward the golden throne, his gaze firm and determined.
"Odin, we thank you for your welcome, but we have matters to settle with you," Tony declared firmly.
The Asgardians' gazes turned to Tony, surprised by his audacity. But I knew that my beloved wouldn't back down from anyone, not even the king of the gods.
"What brings you here to make demands?" Odin asked sternly.
"You know exactly what brings us here," Tony retorted without hesitation. "Loki almost died because of your lies. You pushed him into darkness by withholding the truth about his origins, by branding him a monster, and by leaving him to his fate. You have not been a father worthy of the name. We are here to seek justice."
Tony's words echoed in the throne room, eliciting a stunned silence. Never before had anyone dared to confront Odin in such a manner. My adoptive father's eyes blazed with contained anger, but Tony didn't falter under his disdainful gaze.
"You speak with great confidence for a mere mortal," Odin replied with a cutting tone.
"I am more than that," Tony responded with a satisfied smile. "I am Iron Man, and I will do everything in my power to protect the man I love and our unborn child."
Odin seemed visibly surprised by this revelation. "An unborn child..." he repeated, as if struggling to grasp this new reality.
Tony approached me, his eyes shining with pride, and gently placed his hand on my rounded belly. "Yes, Loki and I are expecting a child. Protecting my family has become my utmost priority. I know what you want, Odin," Tony continued with determination. "You want Loki to become a god again, one of your own sons. But it's time for you to accept him for who he truly is. Loki is a Jotun, that's his true nature. I refuse to see him change to conform to your narrow view of the world. Moreover, his current form puts the child he's carrying in danger. Will you repeat the same mistakes of the past?"
I saw Frigga grip Odin's arm and whisper something in his ear. The Allfather's face softened, giving way to a kind of understanding. Odin seemed to have made a decision.
"You're right, Tony Stark. I have made mistakes in my role as a father, and I deeply regret them," the old man admitted with a voice full of sincerity.
He then turned his gaze to me, and I was surprised to see a glint of apprehension in his eyes.
"If you become a Jotun again through my magic, Loki, you can never become human again. Are you fully aware of that, my son?" he asked in a serious tone.
I nodded, my heart aching. I was aware that this choice was permanent, but I also knew it was the only way to keep the child alive.
He then raised his scepter, infused with the power of Asgard, and murmured an ancient incantation. I felt a strange energy enveloping me, and a tingling sensation spread throughout my body. I closed my eyes, allowing the transformation process to take place within me.
When I opened my eyes again, I could sense that something had changed. My body was different, my features now marked by my true Jotun nature. I had regained my blue skin, my red eyes, and my imposing horns on a forehead adorned with strange tribal symbols. There were exclamations of surprise, cries, and even a few tears of terror at my new appearance. However, I no longer cared about pleasing the gods or conforming to their expectations. I was proud of who I was, whether human, Jotun, or Aesir.
Suddenly, I realized that Thanos' spell that bound my tongue had also been lifted. I brought my hand to my throat and felt with relief that I could speak freely again.
"Mother, Father, I thank you," I murmured with emotion.
Frigga approached me gently and embraced me in her arms.
"My dear Loki, we have made so many mistakes... I know what we put you through is unforgivable. I only hope you will find happiness among these humans," she said tenderly before stepping back to greet the team members.
Odin stared at me from a distance, and in his remaining eye, I thought I saw a glimmer of regret. Tony joined me as well, his smile filled with emotion.
"You look magnificent," he whispered in my ear.
"None of this would have been possible without you," I whispered back, a shiver running down my skin as his fingers brushed my cheek.
"How I've missed that voice..." Tony sighed playfully.
The rest of the evening unfolded like a dream. Torches crackled, casting dancing shadows on walls adorned with frescoes depicting the past exploits of the gods. Intricately patterned rugs covered the floor of the throne room, adding a warm and colorful touch to the atmosphere.
The tables, beautifully decorated, were overflowing with delicate dishes and exotic fruits, all accompanied by mead with captivating aromas. Goblets clinked in cheerful toasts, guests celebrating the nascent alliance between the Aesir and the humans.
In the center of the room, gods and goddesses engaged in an enchanting dance, their graceful movements drawing the revelers into a whirlwind of colors and sounds.
Clint skillfully tossed golden apples into the air, skewering them with arrows to the astonished looks of the gods.
Bruce, on the other hand, had comfortably settled among Asgard's scholars. Enthusiastic about discussions on magic and the mysteries of the universe, he exchanged his knowledge eagerly with the scholars.
Surrounded by the Valkyries, Natasha fascinated with her grace and strength. The warrior women seemed entranced by the spy's aura, seeking to learn more about her exceptional fighting skills.
Steve enthusiastically joined a friendly strength competition with the Aesir warriors. Arm wrestling matches followed one after another, amidst the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd.
Suddenly, Sigyn appeared, radiant in her ceremonial gown. She invited Steve to dance, sweeping him into an enchanting waltz. The soldier, initially somewhat awkward and blushing, eventually allowed himself to be guided by the goddess.
"Your friend is a wonderful woman!" Steve exclaimed as he returned to me a few waltzes later, his cheeks flushed from dancing and mead.
"Be careful, Steve, she's a true lioness. When she has a man in her clutches, there's no escaping..." I joked as I served a drink to the soldier.
"Who said I want to escape?" Steve replied with a teasing smile, accepting the drink I offered him.
"Your two best friends who are batting their eyelashes at each other..." Tony chimed in. "Admit that it's quite amusing how well they get along! And guys, how about being the godfather and godmother of our baby?" He added, addressing the lovebirds.
The guests reveled in the cheerful atmosphere when suddenly, Thor took center stage, silencing conversations and halting the dancers. Intrigued, everyone turned to the God of Thunder, surprised to see Mjölnir abandoned in favor of a more melodious instrument.
"Worthy Aesir, dear guests, on this night blessed by the stars, I wish to offer a humble tribute to my brother Loki, the Silver-Tongued," he proclaimed with a powerful voice that resonated throughout the throne room.
A solemn silence settled as the first notes of his harp gently echoed, enveloping the assembly in a soft melody. The lyrics of the ballad were like verses from a forgotten poem, evoking memories of yore.
You told me once, you knew it well,
That walls could crumble, shadows fell,
And when you heard the wind arise,
You knew it whispered hidden lies.
I remember how you felt fear,
As I held your heart so near,
They said it all would soon be done,
Our time beneath the setting sun.
Thor looked so vulnerable, his hands caressing the strings of his lyre with an almost fragile delicacy. His golden hair cascaded around his face, concealing his expressions. It was as if his voice could shatter at any moment, so laden with emotions.
My heart tightened as I listened to the lyrics of his song. There was no doubt that he was the author. Who could have imagined that the mighty Thor possessed the soul of a bard?
And so, a question insinuated itself within me: behind this facade of valor and firmness, what secret did he conceal?
A square of moon, upon our eyes,
As we searched for stars in skies,
In my belly, serpents coiled,
Emotions clashed, turmoil boiled.
Beside our parents' bed we lay,
Waiting for the storm to sway,
And in the night, a gentle call,
To enter palaces infinite, we'd fall.
Eyes of icy blue pierced through me, a strange tacit message passing between us. The hatred I had always detected in his gaze seemed to have transformed into something different, something deeper. A sentiment I would have never dared to name or admit. As I stared at him, a flash of pity for this god of thunder coursed through me, realizing that despite all my claims of subtlety and perception, I had been unable to grasp the entirety of his true essence. Just as he had been unable to see mine…
I remember how you felt fear,
As I held your heart so near,
They said it all would soon be done,
Our time beneath the setting sun.
Then suddenly, a sun did rise,
Upon the blue of distant skies,
And like dewdrops in the morn,
Your tears evaporated, reborn.
Far away, the valley shone,
In light that snowy peaks had sown,
And as I pondered, wondering why,
Storms depart, and where they fly.
At the end of the melody, I nodded toward this stranger. Yes, this Thor was unfamiliar to me, different from the man I had faced in the past centuries.
The banquet continued late into the night, punctuated by laughter, songs, and dances. Bonds were strengthening, and a true friendship was blossoming between the two worlds. Of course, wounds from the past remained present, deep and still sensitive. My relationships with my divine family were complex and laden with conflicting emotions. But in this moment, I was determined not to let these conflicts poison the celebration.
*
"Lying on the immense bed in my childhood room, we were enveloped in a peaceful and surprisingly gentle atmosphere. The evening had been filled with emotions, far from what I could have imagined. Thor had shown surprisingly affection, Frigga had held my hand tenderly throughout the meal, and Odin... he had finally accepted my true self.
Everything I had always desired - the love and acceptance of my divine family - had finally been granted to me. Yet, despite this abundance of affection, I couldn't find serenity. The prospect of living a thousand times longer than Tony terrified me, and a part of me couldn't be fully content with the situation.
"Do you realize that now that I've turned back into a Jotun, I won't age like humans do anymore..." I murmured uncertainly.
"Life is full of surprises..." Tony replied tenderly. "I already feel lucky to have found you again. Knowing that I'll leave a part of myself with you when I go gives me some comfort..."
But his words didn't ease my mood, and tears began to well up in my eyes. Tony gently pulled me closer to him, our lips meeting in a sloppy yet infinitely tender kiss. A small whimper escaped me involuntarily as I felt the warmth of his breath and the sweet taste of apple juice on his lips. A pang of guilt washed over me, realizing he would never get to taste Asgardian mead.
I pulled back from his embrace to pepper his face with kisses. I relished the sensation of his rough beard tickling my lips, and I felt Tony shiver pleasantly under my touch. His large brown eyes sparkled with amusement and desire, making my heart race even faster.
"Loki..." he warned with a small chuckle, but I couldn't resist continuing.
I wrapped my arms around his warm body, our chests pressing against each other.
"Touch me," I pleaded, desire pulsing in my voice.
"With pleasure," he grinned, his gaze filled with passionate fire.
His lips traced delicately along the lines of the strange markings on my skin. Then he moved down my chest, his eyes lingering with obvious hunger on my already aroused nipples. My breath quickened as he caressed, nibbled, and sucked on them eagerly, sending waves of pleasure through me.
"Tony..." I breathed, panting under his exquisite touch.
"Your body reacts so intensely," he commented with surprise before thoroughly savoring every inch of me.
A shiver of bliss electrified my entire being.
"I intend to make sure your body remembers this night for centuries to come," he murmured.
I shuddered as his calloused and horned hand, bearing the marks of years spent building machines, glided over my skin. His caresses were imbued with unparalleled tenderness, and I nestled against him like a purring kitten, eager to relish every moment of this embrace.
His fingers delicately explored my horns with curiosity, lingering on each detail.
"Steve told me he broke one of your horns in the Arctic," Tony remarked.
"Has it properly regrown since?" I inquired.
"I believe one is slightly shorter than the other," he answered with an amused smirk.
I playfully tossed a pillow at his head, and Tony retaliated by attacking me with tickles. He waited until I begged for mercy before resuming his loving caresses.
"I want to know every inch of you," he confided in a low voice, as if sharing a secret. His hand then rested on my round belly, where the product of our love resided. "I want to take my time with you, and... I want to make love to you as you deserve. You've given so much to others, now let me show you how much you mean to me..."
And I allowed him to mark me in ways no one else ever had before."
*
A loud noise of knocking on the door resonated in the room, abruptly pulling us from our sleep. My senses sharpened instantly. Beside me, Tony sat up, equally alert.
I hurried to dress myself and reached the bedroom door, where I found Sigyn, her face pale and worried, accompanied by Thor and the other Avengers. My heart raced, knowing that their presence here didn't bode well.
"Sigyn?" I called with an apprehensive tone. "What's going on?"
The goddess took a deep breath before revealing the grim news. "The Chitauri have just attacked Asgard," she stated, her voice trembling. "There's no time to waste. We must evacuate the realm."
"Why such a drastic measure?" Tony questioned, joining us.
"I'm so sorry, Loki," the goddess murmured, tears in her eyes. "The queen has been killed."
The words hung in the air, heavy with grief and pain. My mother, the gentle and loving Frigga, murdered?
"Who?" I asked in a hoarse voice, anger welling up within me.
"Thanos," my friend revealed, her voice tinged with sadness and contained rage.
That name echoed like a curse in my mind. Anger seethed within me, fueled by a burning desire for vengeance.
Thor suddenly spoke up, his face dark. "I will go to face him alongside Father, Loki."
"It's madness!" I exclaimed, feeling the weight of anxiety bearing down on my shoulders. "He possesses the Infinity Stones. We stand no chance against him."
"Yet, I'm obligated to try," Thor retorted. "Our duty to our people comes first. The Asgardians must be kept out of harm's way. We must act swiftly and efficiently. You, Natasha, and Clint, ensure the protection of the Asgardians. Sigyn, Steve, and Tony, prepare a cruiser. It must be ready to take off once everyone is aboard."
Each of us nodded, understanding the critical urgency of the situation. We immediately went into action, following Thor's directives. In a carefully orchestrated choreography, we guided the gods towards the ship, forming a protective shield against the Chitauri attempting to reach them.
Time was running out, every second was of utmost importance. As the last Asgardian boarded, we saw Thanos and his army closing in, gaining the upper hand against Thor, Odin, and the valiant warriors.
"Start the ship!" Thor yelled, releasing the powerful lightning of Mjölnir to push back the enemy.
Suddenly, Odin materialized before us, armed with his scepter.
"Father, come aboard with us!" I pleaded.
"Like a captain loyal to his ship, I shall die in my realm, my son," he replied with resolve.
I knew convincing Odin was an impossible task. Especially now that my mother was gone. He wouldn't flee in the face of adversity.
"We will honor you, Father," Thor solemnly assured.
A final exchange of glances took place between Odin and me, and I felt all the love and pride he held for me.
As we boarded the ship, Odin remained on Asgard, ready to sacrifice his life to give us a chance to escape.
"Set course for Midgard!" Thor commanded firmly, adjusting the ship's controls.
The engines' hum intensified as our ship ascended into the atmosphere, leaving behind the ruins of Asgard. However, barely had we gained altitude when the Chitauri ships, like menacing swarms, pursued us. Their metallic hulls gleamed ominously in the starlight, revealing the deadly weapons they housed.
Alarms blared within the ship, creating an anxious cacophony that mingled with the deafening roar of the engines. Wind whistled through the ventilation ducts, carrying with it the metallic scent of space.
Moments later, our ship was boarded. Bruce transformed into the Hulk, his massive form taking shape with a titanic growl.
Meanwhile, Natasha, Clint, and Steve were already in position, weapons raised. Laser blasts flew in all directions, repelling the encroaching Chitauri who posed a threat. Natasha's face was concentrated as she shot with deadly precision. Clint, his eye fixed on his target through the scope of his bow, released explosive arrows. Steve's shield vibrated with the rhythm of impacts as he engaged in combat, striking with superhuman strength any enemy that dared to come too close.
Before us, Thanos stood, his gaze fixed on me.
"You possess something that belongs to me, Loki!"
A shiver of apprehension cut through the air as the Avengers closed ranks around me. We were ready to face this colossal threat before us. However, it was Thor who took action first. In a swift motion, he activated a lever nearby, and suddenly, the command room was enveloped in a magical barrier. This boundary isolated us not only from the imminent threat of Thanos but also from Thor himself, who had chosen to remain outside.
"What are you doing, Thor?" I cried out, my voice a mix of confusion and concern. My gaze sought his through the shimmering barrier, but it was clear that the God of Thunder had a specific intention behind this impromptu decision.
"The sun will shine again, my brother..." Thor announced, his troubled blue eyes like a stormy ocean.
Mjölnir's powerful lightning struck the ground with titanic force, creating a dazzling cascade. Then, like a lightning bolt itself, Thor launched himself at the sorcerer in an attack.
"Thor!" I shouted with despair.
But it was already too late.
In a brutal move, Thanos gripped the God of Thunder's throat in an iron grip. The legendary hammer fell heavily to the ground, emitting a deep, ominous sound.
Suddenly, as if destiny had decided to momentarily pause its inexorable course, Thanos's grip slackened. Thor fell to the ground, lifeless, his face peaceful as if he had accepted his fate with dignity.
Pain and shock flooded over me, leaving me breathless. I felt my legs buckle under the weight of this new loss.
"Well, little Jotun? Don't you want to play with me too?" Thanos chuckled, a deranged smile on his face. "Give me the Space Stone, Loki, and no harm will come to the people you love, I give you my word."
The mad titan's proposition sent a chill down my spine. Part of me wanted to abandon everything to save those I loved, but I knew that yielding to his demands would betray Thor's memory and condemn the entire galaxy.
"Loki," Tony urged, "we need to go, or Thor's sacrifice will be in vain!"
Tears in my eyes, I cast one last look at my fallen brother, swearing to avenge him too.
We navigated through the labyrinthine corridors of the ship, our footsteps echoing in the metallic hallways as we dodged the relentless attacks of the Chitauri. Every corner seemed a potential trap now. The strobing lights of laser shots created a dazzling dance around us, a deadly ballet in which we were forced to participate.
In the midst of this chaotic melee, I suddenly felt a wet sensation between my legs, a reality I could never have imagined in such a perilous context. My gaze lowered to my soaked clothes, and a sharp pain seized me in the abdomen, taking my breath away. My survival instinct collided with the undeniable reality: the baby had chosen the worst moment to make its entrance.
A veil of concern and worry crossed Tony's features as he sensed my discomfort. "Loki?" he exclaimed.
"The baby, Tony... It's... happening now."
"What are you two doing?" Steve called out, hurrying back to us.
Ignoring Steve and all the turmoil around us, Tony rushed to me, carefully lifting me into his arms.
"Tony?" the soldier asked again, this time with an anxious tone.
"Loki's water broke," the inventor announced gravely, his eyes fixed intensely on mine.
Steve hesitated for a moment, then quickly regained his composure.
"You two go ahead," he ordered authoritatively, resuming his role as a leader with determination.
"No, Steve!" I cried out, aware of the danger. "Don't face this alone! It would be suicide!"
"He won't be alone," assured Sigyn's gentle and comforting voice. The goddess cautiously approached Steve, taking his hand tenderly in hers.
"We have a godchild to protect..." Steve added.
This nightmare seemed never-ending because now all the Avengers were by our side.
"Go ahead!" Natasha exclaimed resolutely, determination shining in her eyes. "We'll hold them off as long as possible!"
I categorically refused to let my friends sacrifice themselves for me, desperately begging them to leave with us.
"You've sacrificed yourself for us so many times, Loki! Why shouldn't we do the same?" Clint replied emotionally.
"Hulk, protect the baby!" the berserker added, his massive hand pounding the ship's wall with a powerful punch.
I could barely give them one last look, tears blurring my vision, when a new contraction doubled me over, a cry of pain escaping me. Tony instinctively reacted, supporting me for an indefinite period. My head spun, and through my tears, I heard his comforting words.
Finally, Tony placed me on the back of a horse. We were in the ship's stables, and I was surprised to see that he had transported me here without fail.
"Sleipnir?" I managed to articulate, astonished that the stallion had been saved from Asgard's destruction.
"Sigyn said he was important to you," Tony announced, opening the airlock door, "I thought you'd be happy if we brought him to Earth with us."
Then he leaned down to whisper something in Sleipnir's ear, but I couldn't catch his words.
"Tony, what are you doing?" I urgently called.
"I'm covering your rear, my love," he declared with determination.
"Stop this nonsense, come with me!" I pleaded, aware that time was of the essence.
But Tony drew me to him, our lips sealing in a final kiss.
"I love you," he murmured tenderly, "Never forget that."
Then, in a swift motion, he slapped Sleipnir's flank, causing the horse to gallop away. I watched the roots of Yggdrasil pass before me, realizing that each stride was taking us light-years away from Tony.
I wanted to grab the reins to steer Odin's mount myself, but my hands were too occupied gripping the horse's mane. The pain in my belly intensified, mingled with the fear and sadness of leaving Tony and my friends behind, at the mercy of Thanos.
Finally, Sleipnir set us down in a desolate field of black volcanic rock. I fell heavily from his back, a cry of pain escaping my lips as a new contraction seized me. I was alone, completely alone.
The contractions grew more intense, and each push brought me closer to deliverance. I felt vulnerable, but I had no choice, I had to continue. My child's survival depended on it.
I lay down on the rocky ground, gritting my teeth to stifle the groans of pain. Sleipnir seemed to support me with gentle nudges of his nose.
I took a deep breath, preparing for the next push. Even though I was alone, I felt a new strength wash over me. A strength that came from the love I held for our child, for Tony, for my friends, and for my family.
Minutes seemed to stretch into eternity. My body was enveloped in a burning pain, but I felt that each contraction was bringing me closer to the decisive moment. With one final push, the child slipped from me, into this unknown world. A powerful cry escaped his lips, filling the silence with life.
Exhausted, I slumped onto the ground, my gaze fixed on the bloody newborn in my arms. His little body, as white as snow, was adorned with raised patterns. He was magnificent.
"Hello, my Anthony..." I sighed, looking into the tearful brown eyes of my son.
PART I END