The Vagrant Knight

“The valiant Knight and the renowned enemy with drawn swords uplifted, ready to deliver two such furious slashing blows that if they had fallen full and fair they would at least have split and cleft them asunder from top to toe and laid them open like a pomegranate…”

Loki made a face and put down the pomegranate he was about to eat.

Beside him, Thor, as Sir Balder, laughed. He looked upon the merriment, wondering how different this was when he was not a participant.

The jousting was commencing a few days hence and people from far and wide had arrived to take part in it. Thor was truly mesmerized by the ships and the horses, carriages, the men and women who came to joust.

From the last two weeks, Thor had seen guest upon guest arrive at Seidr. They came through ship and through land, phaetons, carriages, ships, mounts and soon enough the huge areas that had been drowned in high grass was filled with tents.

The horses were free to graze in another part of the plains, some rested in stables. People opened their homes to women and children. There was bounteous food, coming in from the neighboring lands as a token of goodwill.

Those who wanted to attend, came as sponsors and Loki was more than happy to house them. Some were staying in the halls of the manor, some had rooms. Thor noticed that Loki was very careful about who he let into the manor and he’d seen that there were more women guests than men. Ladies of nobles and lords were not to sleep on rush beds in the halls.

Thor had never seen this side of jousting.

Loki ordered everyone with the air of a military commander. His voice was firm, his orders were clear. He had told them that the knights were to remain away from the manor at all times. Those who were renowned would be allowed to sleep in the halls, no further. There were guards stationed at every corner, people were taken on as staff, promised to be paid once this was over.

The kitchens in the manor were extended by putting tents out beside it.

There were spits and roasts constructed in the plains, too.

The knights would have to feast on whatever they chose to hunt.

If they didn’t, then the various stalls and shops that had been set up around would have to suffice.

Sellers and traders came from all points in the land.

To some, this would be the highlight of their sales

Loki’s own people were no exception.

Prioress Sigyn, for example, had the nuns make woolen clothing all last year, especially for children. They were given a prime spot in the stalls, selling their wares to those who needed them. They had many, many items for sale. They also made handmade crafts like toys and decorations that they sold to the travelers as souvenirs.

Next to theirs was a line of stalls held by the widows of Seidr, selling their food, handicrafts, clothing, anything that could be desired.

There were also stalls for medicine and medicinal herbs for there would surely be people who would need them. There were larger tents that were filled with games, palm reading, future seeing.

For lovers, there were retreats and romantic rides through the sweet smelling meadow that Loki had in his lands.

And every night, there was a feast, the large halls that led into an open veranda behind the  manor and into the extensive grounds, were filled with people.

At night, there was merriment, music, dancing and people who attended fully joined themselves.

It was the time that the peasantry was allowed to the manor, too. They were given the many, many benches that were set in the grounds. A fire burned in the middle keeping the people outside warm, food was given to anyone and everyone there.

And then, the stories.

The never ending stories that came from knights who were allowed to attend.

They were listening to one now, about a legendary knight who would be the stuff of legend, his story written in books.

Loki didn’t think so.

He rather thought that every knight believed that he would be the stuff of legend. There were ballads who would sing praises for the knights for enough coin and prompt those around to burst in cheers and praises. It all ended when the ballad went to another, then another.

They listened to the knight who was spinning the tales of his own victory. It was entertaining, if a little violent, but it was clear that Loki wanted to retire.

Thor didn’t blame him.

The past two weeks had been hectic.

He had gone from one part of the isle to the other, taking care of one thing after another. Every little emergency that Thor couldn’t even think of, Loki handled. He asked him if he could help and Loki hesitated.

Thor knew nothing of how things were done here, but when pressed, Loki suggested that he order the food for the feasts they would have and come up with a menu.

Such a domestic task left Thor lost for the few moments Fandral hadn’t arrived to tell him what they usually asked the people to cook.

The manor wasn’t the only place that cooked for the knights.

The isle was large enough that every home prepared one of three meals that Loki had approved of. They were easy to make  and delicious once enough ale had been ingested.

For drunk men cared naught for the taste of food. Drunk knights even less.

Some of them found this to be the only place that gave them good hospitality and care. He knew that even the royal tournaments let the majority of their attendees to fend for themselves. Only the most favored and famous Knights were allowed beds in the palace. The others were limited to the grounds or welcome to camp outside the palace walls, stay at inns or generally stay away until it was time for them to joust.

Here, there was food and rest aplenty, Loki had already heard more than one knight exclaim about how good the treatment here was even for those who were at the plains.

They had truly been impressed by the stalls set up for them, where everything was available at a moment’s notice.

Some of them had brought Loki gifts.

These were the Knights who had attended previous jousts and were happy to show him their appreciation for letting them compete.

Some brought gold figurines, others brought cases of imported mead – Loki kept those for himself. He predicted he would need hard liquor every now and then in this year.

Others brought silk and cloth that Loki intended to give to the nuns.

One of them came forth in the middle of dancing with beautiful bracelets that Loki thanked him for. He made a face at them once he left.

Thor had snickered at that.

Loki had been less tired then, now he looked like he could fall over any second.

As the knight went about on his story, Thor gently touched his arm, startling him a little to look at him

“Apologies” Thor said in a low tone “but if you wish to retire, it would be understandable. You’ve attended enough feasts so award yourself a quiet night”

Loki looked at little surprised.

Usually, he was expected to attend till Balder left. But as he looked at him, Loki saw Thor, not Balder.

“Of course” he smiled, getting to his feet “you will stay?”

“It’s entertaining, and I think one of them is about to fall down drunk soon” Thor took his hand and kissed it “sleep well, dear”

Loki was surprised, but knew he kissed his hand because there were people watching. He nodded to him, turned to go, but couldn’t help run his fingers over the spot Thor had kissed the entire way back.

His rooms were chilly and Loki went to light a fire for himself. Winter was upon them and made the nights colder than before. He was going to shut the windows but stopped, seeing the tents and fires lit around in his realm.

He was at the high point of the manor and he could see all over his lands. Far as the eye could see, Loki saw life.

He heard it too.

It was a chaotic, mixed together bundle of sounds that thrived with energy. He heard music, songs, cheering, talking, a jumble of noise that made his heart soar.

He did this.

This was because of his work, his effort spent looking after his lands. This was the result of the weeks and months spent in studying about horticulture, politics, delegation, finances, business…

He’d hated all those with a passion, save for horticulture, but studied them when it became clear that neither his father nor brother were interested in this place.

He’d known from an early age that this would be his duty.

Had he not been baere, he would most definitely would have solitary control over this. But, as it was, he was endangered from birth. People in his lands were, too. They needed the name and the protection that had come with a Knight like Balder and even that Loki had taken care of.

At this moment, he was happy again.

Loki left the window open so he could hear the sounds from outside and went to change so he could sleep. He pulled the covers of his bedding back and frowned when he saw a folded piece of scroll on his pillow.

Slightly alarmed, Loki picked it up, opened to read and almost groaned out loud.

‘Needed the rush under your bed’ Fandral had written ‘so either the oaf sleeps on the bed or freezes to death on the cold floor. Cheers’

Even his signature looked teasing. Loki saw an extra blanket and a fur on the bed for him, put the note aside and got under the covers.

Thor would likely return late. He seemed interested in what was happening, much like Balder did. The few times Loki managed to get out from the feasts early, Balder would have returned in the early morning hours, he slept till the afternoon and woke to vanish to the knights again.

Loki tended to the other things.

He tried not to be sour as he lay his head on the pillow, but he was hardly given a chance, since his exhaustion took over and he fell asleep within minutes of his head hitting the pillow.

***

Loki, unsurprisingly, woke alone.

It was still chilly when he did, so he hissed, got out of bed to close the windows and stoke the fire.

But the moment he turned to the hearth, Loki stared in shock on the floor.

Thor was sleeping on the floor before the dying embers, curled up and snoring softly.

“God’s teeth, you oaf!”

Loki went to shake him and Thor jumped up, startled awake

“What!?”

“Are you mad?” Loki frowned “Why are you sleeping on the floor?”

Still a little out of it, Thor shook his head.

“Someone took my bed” he croaked

Loki nearly smacked himself.

“Idiot, you are an idiot, get into bed”

Thor, confused but eager to get off the floor, groaned as he stood. His back and joints hurt. He tried not to hate himself too much but it proved challenging especially when every knob in his spine protested.

“Sleipnir is smarter than you, I hope you know” Loki told him

“I didn’t want to disturb you” Thor huffed as he was shoved to the bed.

“Fandral took your rush” Loki pulled the covers over him “you were supposed to sleep on the bed”

Thor groaned and pulled a pillow over his head as he sunk into the blessedly soft mattress.

“No more yelling, please”

Loki gave himan offended look

“I am not yelling”

“Feels like it” Thor’s muffled voice told him “let me sleep now and I will let you do this later”

Loki rolled his eyes exaggeratedly.

“Fine, sleep”

He shook his head, stoked the embers and returned to his side of the bed. It was still early and Loki could use a few more hours of sleep.

But he hadn’t had anyone in his bed for so long. He stood debating for a while, but once Thor snored, Loki sighed.

He sat on the bed carefully, as though expecting something to get him. As though expecting the room to say something.

There was a stranger in his bed.

Loki didn’t know how he felt about that, considering he was the one who put him there.

Loki looked at him again – it was so odd.

It was strange and familiar at the same time. He felt wary and comforted by the snores.

But Thor had proved to him that he was a good man. He would never hurt Loki, rather he would protect him.

It made him smile a little, thinking that he’d chosen to sleep on the stone cold floor rather than to impose upon Loki.

Shaking his head, Loki lay down once more, pulled the covers over himself and shut his eyes to sleep again.

And this time it was so deep that Loki didn’t even feel Thor slip out of bed a few hours later nor did he feel the soft hand Thor ran over his head before he left to start his day.

He did, however, feel Vali’s insistent shaking after that.

“Wake up” Vali said “Sir, breakfast is on the table”

Loki let out a mighty groan and Vali stepped back, letting him sit up before he left to tell the staff to prepare a bath for Loki.

It didn’t take him long to walk out of his rooms, but he halted when he saw Thor sitting on the balcony where he usually had his morning meal.

Thor smiled at him “Morning, dear”

Loki watched as he came over to kiss him on the lips, his cheeks turning pink.

“Everyone is asleep and drunk in the feasting halls, the lounge, the lobby and even in the halls outside our rooms. I thought it best to stay in till they awaken.

“Ah” Loki said “Of course, wise thinking”

Thor winked at him and went to pull out his chair for him. He’d been having a nice keg of soup.

Loki frowned at it “Balder, what are you having?”

Thor was taken aback for a moment, but caught himself easily.

“Tis breakfast bone broth” Thor picked it up to show it to him “one of the visiting women told our chefs about it the other the day and they decided to make it. It surprisingly good.”

He sat down and held up the keg for Loki.

Loki took it in both hands with a nod of thanks and took a sip.

Immediately, flavor burst on his tongue and he hummed in approval.

Thor looked to the servants and nodded for them to get one for Loki, too.

“This is so good” Loki breathed

“It is” Thor smiled “and a great way to use the bones. My mother used to make it when I was young, but halted once she got ill”

Loki’s face turned a little sad.

“I’m sorry”

Thor shrugged “It has been a long time, aye?”

“But still no less painful” Loki slid the keg back “I know how you feel”

“I don’t think I can ever imagine how you feel” Thor said quietly.

There was no staff there, no one to listen to them.

“What pain you must carry every day of your life” Thor’s eyes were sincere “and to have no liberty to share in your latest grief. I wish I could ease your pain, Loki”

Loki’s eyes were shining a little, but he smiled, ever so lightly.

“Thank you” he replied

Thor wanted to embrace him – he always seemed to want to do that. But he knew Loki wouldn’t welcome it at this time.

Instead, he turned to look at the foggy, waking world.

“There has to be something mystical about your lands” Thor told him “the fog and mist makes your lands look stunning. I was watching it earlier, when it was thicker, you could hardly see the tops of the trees”

“Aye, it is why we urge people to stay inside either their tents or their homes” Loki told him “and to not sleep on cold floors”

His direct look at Thor prompted a smile at Thor’s lips.

“I have no idea what you mean, dearest”

Once more, Loki rolled his eyes but sat back when his own broth was brought over.

“If I get addicted to this you will be responsible”

Thor smiled “You know the bones in it are so soft that you bite and they break like bread. The marrow inside is heaven”

Loki found that to be true.

He finished two kegs of it before he finished his porridge and left Thor very, very impressed.

“Are you sure you didn’t eat some of the cutlery with that?” he joked

Loki gave him a dry look “You are supposed to be charming, remember?”

“And you are to be a sweet little rose, unable to speak above a the gentle hum of a whisper nor eat more than the food that fits in the palm of your hand”

Loki’s disgusted face after that made Thor burst out in laughter.

“People in London are strange” Loki told him

“Aye, that they are” Thor confirmed “I never did like living in the city. I always preferred the open countryside”

“I can see that” Loki told him “you love staying in the open. It’s a nice change, I will say”

Thor smiled at him “What do your plans include now?”

“For the moment, nothing” Loki said “the last of the knights will arrive today and tomorrow the jousts will begin. Usually, you will handle the opening ceremony and Fandral will draft up a fancy little speech but other than that, sitting and watching the violence will be the order of the day”

Thor smirked “What about those who do not attend the violence?”

Loki turned to him, “Pardon?”

“Some women and children prefer not to see the jousts” Thor put his napkin aside “what entertainment is there for them?”

Loki seemed confused for a moment “None, actually”

Thor winced “Doesn’t seem a little unfair, aye? What if you host a carnival for them? I am sure the people who do such things would love it and we have space aplenty”

“A carnival” Loki repeated “that is not a bad idea”

“Of course not” Thor smiled “I came up with it”

Loki had to sigh at him

“Alright, how about you be in charge of having a carnival erected?” Loki asked “I will see if it is worthy or not”

Thor beamed “I will do my best”

He stood, placed a kiss upon his cheek and departed, leaving Loki blushing. He touched the pendant at his neck.

This had been a gift from Balder, to signify their unwavering loyalty to one another. Loki had worn it since the beginning of their marriage.

He kept it from others, a promise only to himself.

He wondered if it was still worth wearing or that its meaning was lost with what he’d learnt.

He’d never been dramatic sort but the image of himself throwing this pendant into the seas was a rather satisfying one.

He felt anger, still, at what he’d learnt. It was lingering because he could do nothing about it. He’d taken his anger out on Sif, he’d lost respect for Balder, what else was left?

Loki felt cheated. He was no longer allowed to be angry. Even that was taken from him

He was angry that they lied to him, angry that he believed that they were caring for him.

And they might have, in the way they coddled him as though he was a babe. Perhaps to them it was true. He was eighteen when Balder married him, twenty two when he lost their child and that was when Balder saw him as fragile, delicate.

He hadn’t touched him after that, perhaps once or twice when they had their anniversary.

He’d thought that it was because of the miscarriage.

It was Sif. He was spending nights in her bed.

Loki exhaled, shook his head and stood, letting the staff clean up. He hadn’t much to do most of the day, so he spent it organizing his closet. It was something he’d delayed for a long time.

The window was open once more, the drapes pulled back. Loki saw his riding gear. He bit his lip and smiled.

Seemed like he was about to get his dramatic moment, after all.

The seas looked tempting enough and Loki was quick to dress and depart, taking Svadilfari with him on a ride through the isle. People saw him and waved, called out greetings and he, for once, ignored them.

His heart was racing within his chest, matched with Svadilfari’s hoofbeats.

The landscape began to turn into a blur as the horse picked up speed and soon, Loki was galloping through the paths he’d taken so many times, to go to the shore.

There was no one there. Svadilfari panted, catching his breath and Loki dismounted.

These parts of the isle were farther off than those that were more popular. Here, there was a sense of solitude. Men and women came here to either get away from their hectic life or to look for a place to swim in when the weather was hot enough. Right now, it was cold and the waves brought freezing winds for him.

The fog was light but still present so as Loki walked forward, he rubbed his arms a little.

The waves were crashing loudly and Loki walked over to an outcropping of rock, gaining his footing on the slippery surface.

He climbed over it, got on the edge and looked at the waters underneath.

They were grey, spraying him and making him shiver.

His hands were already cold.

Loki dug into his collar, tugged the pendant off and looked at it.

Years of memories were inside it, looking at it, Loki could see Balder putting it around his neck. He could still feel the affection that had come with it.

It vanished when he imagined him doing the same to Sif.

Loki’s hand clenched around the pendant. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

Then he pulled back and threw it into the waters, watching as it flew into the air, shining with the light of the dim sun.

He watched as it crashed into the waters, lost to him forever.

Loki didn’t realize he had tears in his eyes till he blinked. They slid down his cheeks, chilling his skin.

He closed his eyes again, exhaled, turned and climbed back down.

He trudged through the scattered patches of grass and the debris of seaweed and kelp that had been brought to shore.

Svadilfari was waiting for him.

He swished his tail behind him and nuzzled his chest when Loki walked over.

“Don’t worry, I won’t throw you away” Loki kissed his forehead “Let’s go home? Slowly”

Loki moved to get on him, but stopped when he saw Sleipnir behind him.

“What are you doing here?”

Sleipnir burred and came to nudge Loki, who smiled a little.

“Come on” Loki said “let’s get you home, too”

He felt better. He felt relieved.

He didn’t know when he would get how stupid he’d been behind him but he would start working on it. Balder had been making a fool of him long enough, Loki wouldn’t do the same to himself.

He would no longer pine after a man who clearly hadn’t thought much for him beyond the love of a pet, he guessed.

Loki took a ride along the shore instead of going back through the isle. It was nice and secluded.

He rather liked it, even though he loved the people of his isle.

Sleipnir walked alongside him, occasionally nosing at a kelp or nibbling on some grass he ripped from the earth.

Svadilfari kept giving him glances but didn’t do much else as he took Loki back.

His decision to choose the shore had been a good one – until he saw Lord Fjolvar walking his flouncy self on the beach, reading. He hadn’t looked at Loki for now and Loki wondered if he could quietly slip away.

Or, unleash Sleipnir upon him to make his escape.

He was, unfortunately, still thinking about it when Fjolvar looked up.

He had bright red hair and sparkling blue eyes, which filled with delight when he saw him. He snapped his book shut.

“Lord Loki!”

Loki let himself groan out softly, but to him, it was all smiles and welcome.

“Sir Fjolvar” he moved Svadilfari over “how fare you?”

“Very well, thank you for asking” he said “this is a bit of a chance, isn’t it? And are you walking two horses?”

“Aye, the second is my husband’s pet” Loki told him “he clearly needs the walk, as you can see”

“’I have never seen the like” Fjolvar came over “and since you are heading out, I shall accompany you.”

Loki made to tell him that Sleipnir was not one to be ridden but stayed silent. He was a little curious about how this would unfold.

“Have you heard?” Fjolvar asked “Lord Halvor is here. He arrived not ten minutes ago and everyone is in a chaotic excitement. Perhaps they will see his face”

“Perhaps” Loki watched him hold on to Sleipnir’s mane to pull himself up “I wouldn’t do that if I were you, he doesn’t like it”

“He’s a horse, he doesn’t….”

Fjolvar let out a screech of pain when Sleipnir turned and sunk his teeth painfully into his rear.

“Stars be damned!”

Fjolvar lost his footing and fell into the sand, writhing in it in pain, holding his abused bottom.

Loki sighed.

He slid off Svadilfari and went over to look at him. Fjolvar was cursing and hissing in pain, rubbing his bottom over and over.

“He’s crippled me!”

“I highly doubt it” Loki crouched beside him “Do calm down, it’s not bleeding, you’re going tobe alright”

Fjolvar sobbed.

Loki shook his head and rolled his eyes at Sleipnir, who was so happy with himself. He was circling around Svadilfari, who stood stoic and alert.

“Come on” Loki pulled at Fjolvar “let’s get you to the medics”

Fjolvar was whining and leaned against Loki as though mortally wounded. He had tears running down his cheeks, all his grace and poise lost as he allowed Loki to drape him over Svadilfari’s back like a sack.

Loki got on and took another deep breath, taking him along as he made the ride back to the manor, with his whimpering, crying burden.

Sleipnir, of course, trotted along behind, extremely happy with himself.

***

There was news of Sir Halvor everywhere.

Apparently, his presence here was rather a remarkable event. Thor was supposed to know this but remain stoic, which was easy considering he didn’t consider him to be the awe inspiring being of legend that others clearly thought he was.

He listened to the whispers that came from all around as they had their feast again.

Tomorrow, the jousting would begin, since the last of their guests had arrived. He heard that there were many who had tried to best Sir Halvor and fallen from their horse within minutes.

He also heard that he never took his armor off in public, never made a public appearance and never spoke. He had his people to speak for him, but other than that, he was a mystery.

Thor wagered it was to increase the aura of mystique around himself and carve a place in legend for himself, but he could be wrong.

The man could just be unfortunately deformed.

But he did enjoy the tales he heard.

So far, his favorite one was that Sir Halvor was no Sir at all, in fact he was just a piece of walking armor, possessed by a spirit of a Knight long dead.

He told that to Loki as they had their feast and Loki laughed.

“That one is a rather wild tale” Loki smiled “but clearly untrue. Spirits only haunt people.”

His eyes sparkled in mirth and Thor couldn’t help but smile, either.

“Well, you have clearly better sense than anyone else here” Thor told him

“Of course” Loki had a sip of his wine “I thought that was obvious”

Thor smiled a little more genuinely too. Not that he wasn’t happy, there was just so much socializing to do that he felt tired.

“And since you’ve told me that story, I have one for you that will make you laugh” Loki turned to him

“Oh, do tell me” Thor gave him his full attention

There was music and dancing all around them again, since tomorrow was the commencement of the jousting, everyone was excited. Knights were eager to test their mettle, squires boasted about the wins and trophies of their knights. Ballads sang praises and drafted verses if prose and poetry, selling them to those who would announce their fighting Knights.

There were already praises sung by the few who heard the versus and heated arguments when some began to sound alike. Art theft was shouted more than once across the halls and Fandral sent in his scouts to tell those who were arguing to either calm down or leave.

Loki did not tolerate misbehavior at his feasts.

His rule was to have etiquette or leave.

In the end, Fandral did have to escort three men out and Loki was free to speak to Thor again

“Fjolvar tried to ride Sleipnir”

Thor groaned heavily “Oh no….”

“Aye, and now he’s unable to sit because Sleipnir took a bite out of his rear” Loki snickered

“No…” Thor laughed, looking to where Fjolvar was standing, talking to a maiden “Oh stars, I love that stupid fat horse”

“He started crying” Loki pat Thor’s arm to make him look back “I had to drape him over Svadilfari to bring him here and get his swollen bottom checked”

Thor snorted, shaking his head as he laughed. His cheeks already hurt from the grin on his face.

“Oh, I would have paid to see that” he grinned “I hope the healers tell everyone.”

“I am sure they will” Loki replied “that bit of gossip is juicy”

“Like Fjolvar’s arse, no doubt”

Loki almost blew his drink out his nose, but managed to lower his face into his napkin as he laughed. His shoulders shook and he swallowed his drink, then looked at him.

“Damn you!”

Thor was clearly proud of himself, watching Loki compose himself. He looked lovely tonight, the deep blue tunic and the black trousers he wore accentuated his beauty tonight. Thor had seen more than one man eye him up tonight and felt a sense of protectiveness surge within him.

Loki turned to him and shook his head

“You are supposed to be charming” he took another sip of his drink “many people come just to ogle at you”

“Oh, really?” Thor raised a brow “is that why you are keen to get drunk? This is your fifth drink”

Loki shrugged “I think with all the weeks long strain of planning this, I should be allowed to indulge tonight. Tomorrow I will have to do more, then the day after, then the day after…”

Thor laughed softly “I see. You will need a bigger keg for that”

“Possibly”

They sat back and watched the merriment take place and Loki started to relax. His earlier adventure at the beach had seemed to have worked, but it brought guilt to him, too.

Balder had gotten him that pendant. That was his dead husband’s gift. And he’d thrown it into the waters like it was worth nothing.

Granted, Balder had been having an affair, and yet…

Loki touched his bare neck.

He missed it.

He missed the weight of a possession that had been his and he bit his lip.

He shouldn’t feel guilty.

Loki picked up another drink, then another.

Thor watched Loki, but said not a word, insisting, instead, to stay beside him. But the drinks were working, if Loki intended that.

He became brighter and chipper with every passed keg and was even clapping and singing along with the dancers a while later. His cheeks were flushed a bright pink, his eyes shining with mirth. He leaned forward in his chair, encouraging a few of the shy people around to start doing the same.

Loki was the model of decorum. If he did this, they were free to, as well.

The music became more and more irresistible to him, Loki was grinning as he turned to Thor.

“Dance with me”

Thor blinked at him in surprise and parted his lips to suggest that perhaps Loki should retire. But he was given no chance when Loki grabbed his arm and hauled him out of his seat with surprising strength.

“Uh, my dear” Thor said “don’t you think you should lay down?”

Whatever Loki replied, was drowned by the cheers and howls of people as they watched them both come over to join into the dancing and merriment. The music turned faster and Loki turned in Thor’s arms, smiling at him.

Thor was disarmed by that smile, letting Loki take his hand and another dancer take his other as they formed a circle, two more joined a little ways off and they started to take the steps that Thor had practiced with Fandral.

Speaking of, he saw the man in a corner, chatting up a young man, who was blushing and red in the face, but clearly enjoying his attention.

Sif was nowhere to be seen.

So Thor was on his own, moving around in the dance, kicking his feet and spinning when required.

There were people from all walks of life. Thor saw more than one shining emblem in his circle of people and as he turned to another dancer so spin them around before returning to Loki, he saw Fjolvar join in their circle.

Thor’s gaze narrowed as the cheering got louder and the music became merrier.

They ended up forming lines and repeating the steps with each other, everyone laughing and having a good time, especially Loki.

His face was brightly blushed, his hair askew and he was jumping and tiptoeing with the others in a way so open Thor hadn’t seen it before. He looked to Thor and his green eyes softened, his smile became brighter.

As they twirled and danced, Loki returned into his arms and they swapped spots. Loki’s hands lingered over his before he jumped back and continued the choreography.

For someone so drunk, Loki was damn graceful.

Thor couldn’t look away from him.

He was like magic runs circled upon a floor with an experienced set of hands. His hair flowed in the air, his eyes glittered with joy and his laughter has Thor mesmerized.

He was beautiful.

The dance came to a halt, the music stopped and there was applause and cheers from everyone, including Thor, who hadn’t taken his eyes from Loki.

Loki was clapping for the musicians, then turned to speak to a few of the other dancers. They all seemed to be happy with him and Loki finished his conversation to walk over to Thor.

“You’re such a good dancer” Loki twined his fingers with Thor’s and leaned over a little

“Thank you” Thor smiled “and you’re very drunk”

“Perhaps” Loki beamed “But I don’t care about my pendant”

Thor frowned and looked on his neck, seeing nothing there.

“What pendant?”

“The one Balder gave me” Loki swayed a little.

Thor winced and looked around to see if anyone heard that, but since they all looked otherwise preoccupied, he relaxed a little.

“I think it is time we retire” Thor put an arm around him “before you get sick all over the floor”

Loki whined a little in protest but he went with him, nonetheless.

However, for Loki, the rooms were spinning and he groaned a little as he stumbled.

“Alright, then”

Thor bent, scooped him into his arms, which Loki found funny, then carried him back. He hadn’t wanted to, but Loki would have fallen face down on the floor and Thor didn’t want that at all.

 He felt Loki’s arms snake about his neck and hold on, saw the adoring looks people gave as they went to the exit of the feasting halls.

In the halls, Hiemdall raised a brow at them but Thor only smiled and carried Loki all the way back, up the stairs and to his room.

“Wait!”

Thor startled to a stop when Loki said, more lucid than he had been a moment before.

“Don’t take me to the room yet, turn right, I want to go to the roof” Loki told him

Thor looked, confused, upon his flushed, earnest face

“The roof?”

“Yes, the tower, please?” Loki set his head on Thor’s shoulder “I don’t want to be in that room so soon”

His grip and his body tensed in Thor’s arms, as though preparing himself to have Thor deny him. Thor wondered if Balder had denied him and whether Loki kept silent about it.

He let out a soft chuckle.

“Alright, onward, then”

He turned right and Loki’s body relaxed. He even moved his feet a little bit as Thor went where Loki guided him to.

The halls were cold here since no one lit the sconces, but Thor barely let it show. He climbed the dark stairs, holding the bundle he had to carry in his arms as he went up to the tower.

Once they were at the top, however, Loki got to his own feet and opened the door, swaying a little even now.

The chilly wind that hit them made both of them shiver, but Loki seemed happier than he had been downstairs. He smiled and walked to the stone roof ahead of them, his arms spread.

Thor smiled as he looked at him, watching with his head tilted to the side.

Loki let out a loud sigh the air misting before his lips, then turned to smile at Thor.

“You know, if you lay on your back here, you can see every star in the galaxy”

“Truly?” Thor walked over, then unable to resist, asked “did you lay here with Balder?”

Loki bit his lip and a frown came over his brow.

“No, he didn’t approve of my coming up here” he said “he said it was too cold, but I snuck here whenever I could. Out of all the places in the manor, this tower is my favorite”

He went to the edge and set his hands on the think stone that made the edge of it.

“I can see all the Isle from here” Loki rubbed his arms “and no one knows I am here”

Thor took off his cape and brought it over to wrap around Loki’s shoulders, rubbing a little.

“And where do you like looking most?” he asked

Loki thought about it for a moment then turned around and pointed to a spot over Thor’s shoulder.

“There”

Thor turned to see where he was pointing and saw the tall, immovable hills that made up one side of the Isle. Even in this darkness they stood out, darker than the landscape around.

“I used to love them” Loki told him “till Byleistr took me. His home is on the other side. When I came back, I couldn’t stand to look at them”

Thor studied Loki’s face “What exactly did he do, Loki?”

Loki’s face turned a brighter red “He kidnapped me, you know that”

“I know” Thor watched him go to the other side “I meant what did he do when you got there?”

Loki’s lips were tight and he exhaled “He threw me on the bed and climbed on top of me, biting my neck. I hit him in the head with a vase and threw him off before I locked myself in a room for four days”

Thor’s hands clenched and his jaw grit in rage.

“I should have brained him when I had the chance” he growled

Loki looked at him, then ducked his head “I want that but I cannot”

He rubbed his arm again

“It wouldn’t benefit this land or my people, had I been anyone else, I would have slit his throat”

Thor nodded “I understand, I am not happy, but I understand”

Loki turned back to gazing at the hills.

“I really hate that he inspires such fear in me” Loki told him “I think it is the knowledge that without a protector, I cannot face him”

“Perhaps with the right training, you can” Thor smiled “I would love to teach you”

Loki laughed “That’s funny, Thor”

“Nay, I mean it” Thor walked over “I think you would be a good student and with the right rumors about your potions, a formidable warrior”

The blush in Loki’s cheeks brightened a little at that and he smiled, just a little.

“Perhaps it wouldn’t be the worst thing to know how to throw a punch”

“Aye” Thor pat his back “are you ready to head inside? You’ll freeze here”

“Of course” Loki said

He kept his Thor’s cape around him and let Thor take him downstairs, groaning a little.

“I might me more drunk than I let on”

Thor laughed “Let me help then”

Loki yelped when Thor threw him over his shoulder like a sack and carried him down the halls again

“This isn’t what I had in mind!”

“I am aware, but this is far quicker”

“I want to sleep!”

“Then do, no one is stopping you, my lord” Thor grinned.

He went to his rooms and, still holding Loki, stoked the fire enough that it warmed the room. He then went to the bed and parted the drapes.

Loki had gone quiet but was still awake, letting out a hum when Thor set him on the bed.

“Do you feel better?” Thor asked

Loki nodded “Yes I am thinking…just…oh, this will hurt tomorrow”

Thor laughed and ruffled his hair “Lay down”

Loki did as he asked, falling gracelessly against his pillows. Thor undid his shoes and placed them aside before he set his feet, one by one, on the bedding and pulled the covers over him.

“Thank you” Loki whispered “for all of it”

“You’re more than welcome, Loki”

Thor then went to wear his own nightwear, locked the door and stood, debating. The floor was cold, far too cold and the bed looked very inviting.

Loki was awake, which made the decision a little harder, since he would probably comment and make Thor feel awkward. But, as little could be done about it, Thor walked over to the bed.

Loki had his face towards him now and was watching him carefully. He was quiet, his expression soft, mildly curious and sleepy.

His hair was messy and Thor smiled as he sat on the bed, opposite him.

“You’re still not tired?”

“I am” Loki reached out to touch the hem of his sleeve “lay down, please”

Thor obeyed, getting under the covers to face him.

He didn’t expect Loki to slide into his arms and press against him, however.

“Loki…”

“Hush” Loki placed a finger over his lips “don’t speak”

Thor looked at him, Loki noted, he could see the patterns in his blue eyes and Loki leaned closer.

Thor was very, very still as Loki’s lips landed on his own and his eyes fluttered closed. His pale hand rested on his cheek and his thumb stroked his face for a moment.

Then Loki pulled back and smiled at him

“Good night”

He set his head down on Thor’s pillow and drifted off to sleep, unaware of the rapid beating of Thor’s heart or the surprise on his face.

***

Trumpets were likely the least wanted noise for Loki to bear at the breakfast table the following morning. Thor tried to be sympathetic but Loki’s grimace, his colorful self deprecation and the love he had for the cook’s herb tea was a little hilarious.

He flinched at every noise and growled whenever a trumpet sounded of when drums thrummed in the distance.

The people were awake early, their spirits seemed to have chased the fog away this morning because there was only a light mist settled over them.

 The colorful banners and tents of the participants swished and flapped in the wind from the seas and horses were painted over the fur with artists or draped in the emblems of their masters.

Today, the jousting would begin.

This was the day that many would gain their dreams, while many would fall.

Thor and Loki were to be there at the opening ceremony but Loki seemed disinclined to move from his seat. He looked like a wraith, a shawl adorned over him, even on his head. He looked like the stuff of nightmares.

He finished his third cup of tea and Thor gave him a smile.

“Are you finished?”

Loki gave him a dry glare, but stood and went to his wardrobe.

His bath was ready, so while Loki took that behind the screen, Thor washed up with the basin, looked at his reflection so he could shave and look presentable. He heard Loki on the other side of the screen and chanced a look.

He could see only his silhouette but even that was … well, Thor couldn’t breathe.

Loki’s movements as he undressed were sensual, much like last night’s dance. His body looked slender and he stepped into the bath with the grace of a swan.

He let out a sigh that made Thor bite his lip and look away.

Nothing good remained in such thoughts.

Loki let out a quiet sigh as he sunk into the water and Thor closed his eyes, trying to concentrate on his shaving.

“What do you have to do for the ceremony?” Thor asked

Loki had his head tipped back to set on the rim of the tub and licked his lips before he spoke

“There will be a breaking of the wine” Loki said “we are traditionally supposed to shatter it, but that wastes so much. So I just have the cork pulled out by a blade, Balder did that”

Thor grinned “I taught him that”

“Did you truly?” Loki turned to look at his shape through the screen “I always marveled at it, it was amazing”

Thor snickered “It’s tricky. Then what happens when you open it?”

Loki’s eyes were focused on Thor’s bare torso. He couldn’t see it but through the small holes in the screen he saw the tanned, muscled expanse of skin.

Thor was more muscled than Balder, Loki noted. Years in a sedimentary lifestyle had given Balder a slightly thicker middle than Thor had. Because Thor’s stomach, his chest and arms were honed to perfection like a blade.

It glistened where the water droplets fell and Loki began to feel his heart race increase a little.

“Loki?”

Thor’s voice made him look to his face through the screen and then blushed

“Oh, forgive me, I got lost in …thought” Loki muttered

Thor smiled “Quite alright, I just wanted to know what I had to do”

“Well, you pour the wine for the highest ranking knights and then break the empty bottle” Loki reiterated “then the tournament starts. The lowest knights begin first, then their finalists are allowed to rest. After that the second group and the third group do the same. Four finalists will then joust one another in the very end”

“Do you watch often?” Thor asked, running the blade over his neck

“Sometimes, usually at the finals, I prefer to mingle rather than watch people break each other’s skulls” Loki said

“Well, sometimes, it’s just an eye, but I see your point” Thor told him “I truly hope the people who will set up the carnival will be nice”

“They will, you gave them a living and earning” Loki began to wash himself “I will be fine, Thor”

“I truly hope so” Thor replied

Silence fell between them as Thor continued to shave and he heard Loki step out of the bath a while later. This time, he kept his gaze on the mirror and saw Loki only when he emerged, wrapped in his towel, to go to their room. Loki’s gaze was on the floor but a second before he left the bathing chambers, his eyes flitted to Thor’s back, seeing the strong muscles illuminated by the light, then Loki was gone.

Thor tried not to smile at himself too much.

He finished up, too, then walked out to see Loki brushing his hair in front of his mirror. Thor went behind the screen to wear the clothes set out for him.

Once he was out, however, he went to his wardrobe and picked something from within.

“Loki”

Loki turned, a curious look upon his face, then looked at something Thor had in his hands.

“I know this is not a pendant or something grand” Thor held out a leather bracelet “but I wanted you to have this”

The leather was thin and braided together with two metal clasps that held it closed. Those interested Loki because they were molded into the shape of a serpent grasping its own tail once it shut.

“This is beautiful” he whispered “I … You truly wish to give it to me?”

“I do” Thor pulled his wrist up “It symbolizes a new start. Perhaps it will help you in whatever hurdles you face within”

His warm fingers touched Loki’s chilly skin and Loki suppressed a shiver, especially when Thor clasped it around his left hand. He swallowed a little at the intimate touch to the inside of his wrist.

Thor watched his face, the blush that bloomed in his cheeks and he wondered if Loki recalled the kiss he bestowed upon him last night.

He doubted it, since he was drunk, but he liked to hope he did.

Loki, for his part, couldn’t look at him for fear of doing something stupid as he’d done last night, it was a mercy that Thor wasn’t bringing it up already.

“Thank you” Loki breathed, studying it so he didn’t have to look at Thor “I will cherish this”

Thor’s smile made his eyes crinkle at the sides and he nodded in acknowledgement then went to finish his dressing so that they could leave.

He did wonder about Halvor and how he would be today. And he tried not to snicker at the thought of Fjolvar being unable to sit.

He should try to give Sleipnir a treat, if possible.

Since Thor was to arrive later, Loki went out with Vali and Fandral to signal that everyone was to gather at the plains today. There was a list of things that still needed to be done and Loki set Vali to the easier, more domestic ones and asked Volstagg for assistance with the harder ones.

Once people saw Loki out and riding towards the plains, the activity increased tenfold. Loki gave them time to collect, going to check on the entertainment for the women and children. He almost laughed at the fact that Thor had hired actors to conduct a play tonight and everyone was given an invitation. They watched the stage being set and set down cloths for an impromptu picnic and a day spent on the rides and horses that the carnival hosts had brought.

There was also a circus tent being lifted close by and Loki thought of bringing Thor to it. It could be something he would enjoy, since Thor liked nearly everything Loki did.

It was charming.

He went past to where there were women teaching visiting ladies about macramé and knitting. They all waved to him and Loki waved back as he rode on, unable to keep from smiling. The grass, as always, swayed around and he rode on, Svadilfari’s large hooves thudding on the ground.

When another presence came upon them, Loki almost rolled his eyes.

“Do you never give up?”

Sleipnir only whinnied in response and plodded along with them.

“You will give me a bad reputation, you know” Loki said “they will think we will have more like you around”

Sleipnir kept jogging with them, sometimes staying back, sometimes keeping pace. He was happy here, too.

The plains were alive with activity and the moment Loki emerged through the bordering tree lines, there were loud cheers and shouts from the knights who saw him, excitement coursing through them.

The stands were already filling up and were huge, lining higher than they did last year. More and more people were investing in their construction.

Loki made a little show of it, riding through the jousting fields, waving at the attendees to give them a cheer, too.

It did feel nice, especially when they laughed at Sleipnir running after him.

Thor would be along later, Loki knew, so he went to take his place after having a stable lad take care of the horses.

He climbed up to where his counselors were sitting and took his usual seat beside the Prioress. It not only marked her station, but showed how important she was to him. Fandral arrived to sit behind him and, to Loki’s dismay, so did Sif.

He said nothing to her save for a nod and watched the people attend and take their seats. There were a few squabbles but nothing too serious as everyone knew that fighting was not tolerated.

The wine bottle was given to Loki and he set it on the seat beside him.

Fandral came to stand behind his chair.

“Where is your husband?” he asked

“On his way” Loki said “worry not, this will be fine”

Loki was given a list of the fighters and tried not to roll his eyes when he saw that Sir Byleistr would be the first to fight.

“Why does that tub of lard fight every year?” Fandral asked “he’s a b-”

He paused at the look Prioress gave him.

“Bull” he amended “no one likes him”

“Then isn’t is good that he will be gotten rid of quickly?” Loki asked “as always”

Fandral nodded “Let us pray he hasn’t gotten any better”

Loki smiled and looked through the papers again.

He was at the end when Thor arrived, making him look up when booming laudation filled the air. He saw him walk in, raising his gloved hand as he did so.

People threw flowers and streamers at him, clapping and stomping their feet in excitement, having heard that he’d returned from what had been certain death.

Loki’s smile fell a little.

Had they but known…

They were cheering for a specter.

He tried to keep it out of his eyes as he stood to greet Thor when he arrived, but Thor saw it.

He took Loki’s hand and kissed it, gaining more shouts from those watching.

There were more, lined around, sitting up in trees, on the roofs of the houses that could see here, it was a spectacle for them.

Thor’s gaze softened, guessing what Loki was thinking about.

“You’re doing very well” Thor told him

Loki ducked his head and picked up the wine as winners and champions came with their chalices, to drink the offered wine.

Every single one of them had their helms removed save for one.

And Thor guessed that was Sir Halvor.

He took out his dagger and, before everyone slashed it swiftly over the neck of the bottle till it caught in the cork and sent it flying, pouring the froth to the grass below.

There were exploding cheers for that, then for when Thor poured it for the knights and smashed the empty bottle at the bannister before him.

“Let the games begin!” Heimdall walked into the fields “Squires, prepare thy masters!”

Loki sat back down and Thor raised a brow

“Attending then, are we?”

Loki rolled his eyes “This one I must”

“Ah, excellent, if you get bored of the violence…” Thor pulled a book from his cloak “Here”

Loki looked at it, then at him “You’re mad. I can’t read during a joust!”

“Read the title” Thor snickered

Loki took it and frowned “A Novice’s Guide to Understanding Formal Jousts?”

Thor laughed, harder when Loki smacked him with the book. Behind them, ballads were singing praises of the oncoming knights but Thor and Loki barely paid attention as they teased each other.

“Loki”

Fandral’s stern voice came from behind and immediately, Loki became reserved, his smile fell and he sat with his back straight.

It was hard for Thor not to toss a withering look at Fandral, but he refrained.

He did vow to have a word with him later.

He was never to check Loki like that again.

He took Loki’s hand within his own and watched the first banners be brought out and hung up.

Byleistr and some small knight faced one another.

“You know he raised the taxes three times this year on his own people to fund these jousts” Loki told him “It’s a shame he has them”

Thor’s lips tightened “He’s worse than I thought”

The flag was set between them.

The tension mounted and the people became silent as they both prepared.

The flag was raised and their horses let out shrieks of energy before they ran, galloping towards one another at full speed.

Loki winced when the greenhorn knight was thrown off his horse with one hit of Byleistr’s lance. He fell into the dirt and moaned in pain as his horse ran off ahead.

The point was awarded to Byleistr.

“He’s gotten better” Loki sighed “Great. It means we will see more of him”

Thor made a face “That sounds extremely nasty”

“It is worse than it sounds” Loki smiled as Vali brought them both their drink

More were handed out behind them and Byleistr took the cheers that the eager, easily gratified audience gave to him.

“It’s like watching a wet rat” Loki hissed “I despise him. What I wouldn’t pay to see him knocked down”

Thor smirked “He won’t go far”

As they watched, Byleistr rode up to them and smiled.

“Ah, fairest Loki” he said “did you see a true knight win this joust?”

“Hardly win” Loki replied “you knocked down an opponent. A tree could do that if a rider is propelling to it fast enough”

There was laughter from those who heard and Byleistr chuckled, too.

“Aye, the same could be applied to your husband, sir” Byleistr said “how long has it been since he faced an opponent?”

“Decades” Thor looked at him “there has been no one worthy”

“Perhaps you are just out of practice” Byleistr goaded “come, how about an unorthodox match between you and I? We can see for once and for all who is the better fighter”

A shushed, awe filled gasp came from those listening in.

“I shall pass” Thor told him “as I said, there is no one worthy”

“Or perhaps you just fear being dismounted again, as I recall, the last time you rode, you were easily thrown off by Halvor” Byleistr said “come now, we can talk about how much we have in common over young Loki”

Loki turned pale and Thor finally, finally gave Byleistr his full attention. His jaw clenched and Loki’s hand came over his.

“No” Loki whispered “do not…”

He broke off when Thor got to his feet.

“Very well” Thor told him “but we fight with swords. Do you accept?”

Shocked murmurs erupted from everyone around and Fandral glared at Thor while Loki tugged on his sleeve, telling him to stop.

Byleistr smiled “I accept”