Art for the story "Complicated Arrangements", chapter 16
Excerpt:
Early in morning, just after dawn, Loki sat reading on a willow tree branch. He loved the aquamarine flower buds, and they smelled divine. It was difficult to concentrate on the words in the book, as the events in Thor’s chamber continued to plague his thoughts. He did not know what Thor had intended, but it did not seem like something he wanted to experience. He was sure Thor would be livid because of it though. Hopefully, he could remain in hiding long enough for the thunderer to calm down.
Loki's lower foot resting on the trunk was yanked, and he lost his balance, book falling to the grass. He managed to stay on the branch, hands gripping beneath him. He scowled at Fandral who was laughing cruelly at him.
"Come down and play little blue monster! I simply wish to speak with you!"
Loki only sniffed at him and brought up both feet to rest on the branch, arms resting on knees. With a glare, Loki assessed Fandral’s demeanor. He did not seem angry, but he was acting vindictive. Calling him a monster was a stark warning of Fandral’s intentions and thoughts towards him.
"I think not. I do not feel the need to subject myself to your foul moods and deceitful games. Perhaps another time."
Fandral only chuckled in dark amusement, then jumped up to make a grab at Loki. It made Loki startle forward against the trunk. He stood on the branch, to make less of his body within grabbing range.
"Come down Loki! Come play with us!" Loki was nervous, but refused to let it show. It was more then likely Thor had sent all of his friends in search of him.
"Are you not a bit old for playing games? I would think someone of your many years, too mature to torment a meek child of 17..."
Fandral didn't bother responding as he was looking for a place on the tree to hoist himself up. Loki jumped and grabbed the next branch up, swinging his legs and hoisting himself up onto it.
"Come on Icemonkey! I want to play! Maybe we could get a drink together. Or you could show me how to balance while walking the wall! That was fun." Loki scowled at the reference to Fandral and Thor’s cruel set up.
"Fandral, just go away. You know I will never agree to come to you willingly." Loki's heart stuttered when Fandral finally got a hold of a low branch, and pulled up onto it. He looked up at Loki grinning.
"No worries! There is no need for you to be willing."