The Realms United

Loki has been listening in on the various conversations his once-brother Thor has been having with all his new Mortal shield companions, The Avengers… especially since the mere mention of Loki’s name seems to be a touchy subject for Thor to discuss around his Midgardian friends. The Man of Iron and Thor’s Lady Jane have been yammering on and on about their gateway device that they are building in league with Dr. Selvig and Dr. Banner so that transport between Midgard and Asgard can become freer. Loki had despised the idea of the Midgardians sending such a device to Asgard so as to open the Realm Eternal up to their visitation… but it could prove useful at a later time so why not? He will have to send word (as Odin) to Heimdall to allow the transport of such a device into Asgard upon its completion. It will be safe in the palace… in a well-guarded room of course… and guards can be dismissed by King’s Command… so if Loki has secret need of it, it will be close at hand.

It is settled… but now Loki needs his rest for on the morrow… the Dwarf King, Hreidmarr Sindrison with his Seven Dwarf Lords will be arriving… as will King Freyr of the Light Elves with his sister/Queen Freyja and who knows how many of their brood of children, and one of the Vanir Royals will be arriving as well.

Then in three days Loki’s own Frost Giant half-brothers… the new Jotun King Helblindi and Prince Byleist will be arriving after the Norn Queen, Karnilla, and her sister, Amora. They will be accompanied by the latest Troll King as well to bare witness to the formation of this Realms United Coalition. Since all the Demon Lords of Muspelheim have flat out refused the All-Father’s invitations… Loki has decided they shall serve as a demonstration as to what happens to those who proclaim themselves ‘Enemies of the Realms’ through ‘non-compliance’… and it shall be poetic indeed.

There is no need to send word to Niflheim, Realm of the Dead. The inhabitants cannot leave that dimension nor can anyone sent there ever return. Loki won’t even waste time sending his ‘daughter’, Queen Hela, word of what is to occur. He doubts she’d come even if she could. Besides… he really doesn’t want to look upon her again… not after he seen her with Thanos during his time on Sanctuary.

___________

Dawn breaks and the palace is abuzz with excitement and all a flurry with activity as preparations are made. Rooms are made ready for each unique guest and soon all is in order. The sound of Heimdall’s horn is heard resounding outside the palace in the late morning of this new day. Loki watches as the rainbow light of the Bi-Frost flashes out beyond the edge of the Realm with Odin’s single eye. He has chosen to walk among everyone today disguised as Odin rather than send a doppelganger.

So mighty Odin watches the riding entourage emerge from the morning mists that temporarily obscure the luminous bridge with a curious eye as he spies the standard upon the green and blue flags… a stately silver horse head with flowing mane. The King of Vanaheim himself has come it seems… for his wife, Skaldi, bears a gold stag’s head. Let’s just say they don’t see eye to eye on most issues. In fact, they were very lucky to have their only child, a son, thank the Fates… but only because it was their duty. Loki had to help them with their marital issues… and the rumors have been rampant ever since about how he achieved that goal.

‘All one needs to do… is figure out what the common ground is… then deals can be made.’ Loki thinks pleased with himself as he thinks about the advice he used when he counseled the long-wedded, yet fruitless, pair for it can be applied even now in the current situation. He strolls down the lengthy hall of columns with his Odin illusion firmly in place then climbs the golden stairs to sit the Throne of Asgard. Loki doesn’t have to wait long for the main doors open and Bragdi, the Bard, heralds the arrival.

“Presenting his Grace and Lordship of Vanaheim, King Njord!” Bragdi speaks loud and clear and all gathered in the great throne room look to the massive main doors as the Vanir entourage enters. The tall man in front is dressed in emerald green and dark blue with rich brown leather and silver accents. His shiny silver helm has a horse’s likeness with long white horse hair flowing down the center crest to brush past his broad shoulders. His men flank him dressed in silver armor with white leather and silvery gray cloaks that flow down their backs and across their shoulders… Silver Cloaks, the King’s personal guard, and they are a match for Asgard’s golden Einherjar.

“Hail, Odin, All-Father!” King Njord says with his deep, strong voice as he takes a quick knee at the foot of the golden stairs. He bows his head and removes his helm to reveal short black hair peppered with gray at the sides and a handsome squared face etched with age and strength. He looks up at the seated Odin with clear blue eyes and stands tall once more. “I and my son, Uller, have come in answer to the summons about this new alliance betwixt all the Nine Realms and everywhere in between.” As Njord says this, the only other man in the entourage not dressed in a silver cloak steps forward and removes his helm. He looks like a younger version of his father with longer hair and dark green eyes. Prince Uller nods his head to Odin.

“Welcome to Asgard, Njord Nerthison, King of Vanaheim… and Prince Uller Njordson. As long as you stay under my roof, no harm shall come to you from my people. I ask that you and your men seek not to antagonize my people, nor any of the other guests you encounter here in the Realm Eternal.” Odin says and waves his hand and a gold shimmer flashes upon the Vanir men’s right shoulders. As it fades a golden badge bearing the symbol of a winged eye remains. “As long as you wear these badges… all of Asgard will know you are under my protection. You may take your rest now for chambers have been provided for you both and a barracks will be made ready for your men.” Odin then says and taps his spear upon the dais. King Njord nods as does his son and men.

“I wish to discuss another matter with you later as well, All-Father. For I am to understand the Lady Phoenix has returned to Asgard… if it is possible for her to be there as well to hear what is to be discussed… that would be much appreciated.” King Njord says with a smile. Odin’s one eye narrows slightly.

“We shall talk an hour before the feast in the palace’s tiered gardens.” Odin says flatly. Loki knows what the Vanir King is up to… now that Asgard’s Second Son is perceived as dead that leaves Sigyn unattached. Loki will not stand for this corralling and vying for his wife’s hand in marriage from a slue of would-be suitors. He will have words with his wife before any talks with the Vanir King take place. Heimdall’s trumpet resounds once more as the Vanir entourage leaves the throne room. Loki uses his mind’s eye to see that the Dwarves have arrived.

“Presenting his Eminence… The Master of Master-forgers, the Gilded King of the Dwarves, Hreidmarr Sindrison of the Golden Beard… and his Craft-Masters of Nidaviller’s Seven Guilds.” Bragdi announces and in walks seven little men and one tiny woman (who could almost be mistaken for one of the men) of stout forms covered in the finest of their finery. All but one of the male Dwarves has a beard and all of those whiskers are brushed, braided, and studded with the finest jeweled ornaments crafted. Their clothing is finely tailored and their armor (if they are wearing any at all) is of the highest quality in all the Realms.

“Hail Odin, All-Father!” King Hreidmarr says in a loud voice as he bows gracefully in his fine breastplate and chain mail shirt of shimmering adamite and gold. His long, blonde beard is braided into several tiny braids that have then been studded with glittering golden baubles and sparkling jewels that catch the light just so to twinkle merrily. Golden Beard indeed!

“Welcome to golden Asgard… Dwarf King, Hreidmarr Sindrison. I see you have put the gold I give you to good use.” Odin says with a smile upon his aged face. The Dwarf King chuckles at the light-hearted jest.

“Aye. All-Father… now tell me about this venture of a closer unification of the Nine Realms I keep hearing so much about.” The Dwarf King then asks.

“I shall in a few days time… at the start of the feast which shall herald the dawn of a new age… but tonight you will have to settle for the feast in honor of you and my other Honored Guests.” Odin then says and stands. He waves his hand and the golden badges bearing his symbol appear upon their shoulders.

“These mark you as being under my protection. And I stress that you afford the same courtesy to any others you see wearing such trinkets. I cannot have my guests fighting each other in my Realm when I have invited you all here for a historical occasion such as this.” Odin cautions of his short-statured guests.

“We shall honor our generous host then.” The Dwarf King says with a nod and a smile.

“Good… You all must be tired from your travels. Take rest in the chambers that have been provided for you. And please, feel free to enjoy Asgardian hospitality until the evening of the Grand Feast.” Odin says and nods his head to the eight Dwarves. They bow and then leave the throne room. Odin sits down upon the golden throne once again only to hear the trumpet blow for the third time. He uses the throne’s magic to see the Light Elf entourage riding their graceful white deer with gilded antlers down the Rainbow Bridge.

King Freyr has brought his sister and Queen, Freyja, as well as their son Lathsindi and his half Fae daughter… there is another young Elf Maid with them. She is dark of hair and bright of eye… and very lovely to look upon. Loki is most curious about her. They ride smiling in the sunlight letting their long hair dance about behind them in the wind. The King and Queen are fair of hair while the others have dark tresses. They all smile brightly as they approach the golden city… a merry bunch indeed.

All of them are beautiful beyond compare and dressed in their finest silken clothing which is loose upon their graceful sun-kissed bodies. The sight of the Light Elf Royals once excited Loki’s lusts, but now he doesn’t care about their appearances… he has his Radiance by his side. Well, she’s not standing directly next to him at the moment, but she is his.

“Presenting their Graces, the King and Queen of the Light Elves, Lord Freyr and Lady Freyja followed by their third daughter, Glimyandria, their eldest son, Crowned Prince Lathsindi, and his only daughter, Milystria.” The herald announces and the Light Elf Royals come striding in gracefully with warm smiles upon their faces.

“Hail Odin, All-Father!” King Freyr says merrily as he dips into a low graceful flourish of a bow. The Elf King’s wife and grown children plus one winged half-Fae granddaughter do the same. They are the epitome of elegance as they move fluidly then stand straight and tall at the foot of the golden stairs with bright eyes looking up to Odin as he stands and nods his head in respect to them.

“Welcome to Asgard old friends. I have summoned you to partake in a new endeavor. In a few days a Grand Feast shall be held to announce the formation of a Coalition of the Realms United… but tonight a feast is being held in your honor and in honor of all my guests. If you wish to take your rest from your journey, chambers have been prepared for you.” Odin says and then waves his hand and his golden badges appear upon their shoulders in the shimmering golden light. “These mark you as being under my protection in my Realm. I only ask that you offer friendliness and goodwill towards those who also bear my symbol during your stay in the Realm Eternal.”

“They shall have it since we all are trying for some new relationships in this new age of peace for the Nine Realms.” King Freyr says as he holds Freyja close to him. That’s when Loki notices the Elven Queen is starting to show as Freyr places a hand upon her slightly swollen belly. ‘They breed like hares.’ Loki thinks to himself.

“I see you are expecting another child.” Odin then says. “Congratulations.” Odin smiles down at the royal couple.

“Our sixth.” Freyr says proudly with a grin as he looks at his wife. Loki feels a sudden sting and is filled with a longing to have Sigyn beside him. He wishes he could’ve seen her belly swell with his sons just as the Elven Queen’s is right now. He wonders if he’d have that same look upon his own face at the sight of his Heart’s Desire with a growing gift inside her womb for him. Odin sighs.

“It must be hard to lose one son to death and the other to independence.” Freyr then says with a solemn tone to Odin. This snaps Loki from his thoughts.

“Yes… it is.” Odin then says and schools his face. “But Thor shall return soon and take his rightful place. I shall see you at the feast tonight.” Odin then says and nods to the Elves. They bow gracefully then depart the throne room.

“This is all so tedious.” Odin then says with impatience. He uses the power of Asgard’s throne to look across the Sea of Space to see that the Jotuns are ahead of schedule and are almost ready to make the trip to Asgard.

“Sigyn.” Odin commands as he sits upon Hlidskialf. The burst of orange flames flashes into brilliant existence before him. Soon Sigyn PhoenixSoul is hovering in the air before the throne to be at eye-level with Odin.

“You summoned me?” She says with a nod of her head which Odin returns out of respect.

“Go to the Bi-Frost at once. It seems the Jotuns are ready to come to Asgard sooner than expected.” Odin then says and Sigyn nods her head. A half-a-second later and Sigyn is gone again in a burst of orange flames. Loki wants his wife to greet them at the Bi-Frost to keep the guards posted there from doing anything foolish. Loki also cannot wait to meet his half-brothers in person to see what kind of character they possess.

At the Bi-Frost Observatory, Heimdall pushes his great sword into the pedestal causing the mechanism to hum to life. Soon the rainbow hued light flickers into existence and the pair of Jotuns appear dressed in furs and leathers standing tall inside the golden dome. Heimdall’s amber eyes narrow upon the two blue-skinned Giants for he remembers the last time Jotuns paid Asgard a visit… He remembers the chill of the Casket very well indeed.

Loki watches from his position on the throne… he notices how the blue skin is paler now and they aren’t covered in spikes and chunks of ice anymore. Their eyes aren’t all red, just the irises now and they also have hair. The shorter one has short spiky hair that is more gray while the taller one has long silvery white tresses that fall past his shoulders and Loki can’t help but see the family resemblance between himself and this… Jotun. Sigyn would admonish him for calling them monsters when she has changed them physically as well as in mind and soul. ‘But she hasn’t changed me… I am still a monster.’ Loki thinks to himself sadly.

“Welcome to Asgard… King Helblindi.” Heimdall says in formal greeting as he nods his head to the new Frost Giant King.

“I have come to witness this new future that the Phoenix woman has spoken of.” Helblindi says in his smooth voice then he looks around seeing only Heimdall inside and a few guards outside the golden dome. “Where is she?” The Jotun King then asks curiously… and then suddenly there is a burst of orange flames.

“Welcome, Friend Helblindi… to the Realm Eternal.” Sigyn says with a warm smile to the Frost Giants… who smile in return. Loki watches this exchange and wonders what his wife’s intent truly is… She bows her head to the royal brothers out of respect before returning a smiling gaze to them once again. Heimdall only holds his great sword’s hilt tightly as he watches the pair of Frost Giants closely. Byleist is gawking as he looks about while Helblindi only has eyes for Sigyn.

“We have come to bare witness to the future.” The Jotun King says as he looks down at her though she hovers before him. She then turns in midair and gestures with her hand.

“Then follow me and not only shall you see it… but you will be a part of it.” Sigyn says with a warm smile as she leads the way and the two Jotun brothers follow her outside. Sigyn then stops and turns. “You must forgive me… I nearly forgot to give you both these.” She then says and waves her hand at their upper left arms. Suddenly thick circlets of gold form out of thin air around the muscled biceps of both Jotun men. There is a phoenix with wings spread wide as it rises from the flames upon the band.

“These will alert all others that you both are under my protection… as long as you don’t antagonize anyone I will swiftly deal with those who seek to harm you whilst you stay here on Asgard. Understood?” Sigyn says as she eyes them both closely.

“Aye.” Both brothers reply.

“Very well then… since there are no mounts large enough to carry you… give me your hands.” Sigyn says as she floats between the two Frost Giants. Helblindi looks at her smiling face and the small offered hand. She doesn’t hesitate or shrink away in fear. She treats them both like they are just any other inhabitant of the Nine Realms and not monsters.

Helblindi smiles at her warmly as he lets her grab his thumb and his fingers close so that he may touch her soft, warm skin. The Jotun King feels his heart pounding in his chest as his garnet eyes remain fixed upon her. She looks up and they float off the Rainbow Bridge. Soon enough they are flying over the bridge and through the great gates. Helblindi tears his eyes away from her only then to take in the sights passing them by. It is all so wondrous and carefree. The Jotun feels tears threatening at the corners of his eyes. He sniffs and blinks to hold them back but then he feels her grip on his thumb tighten.

‘It’s okay to feel and to let it all out sometimes.’ He hears Sigyn’s voice flit through his mind and he looks to her to see her looking at him with a warm smile upon her fair face… and his heart melts at the sight. The tears flow freely down his blue cheeks as he returns the smile. She then turns her gaze to the front and turns them to pass through an opening in a tall spire of a building. She then darts under and through the arches of an aqueduct then rockets upwards to climb over a sheer ridge and the tall buildings upon its crest. They stop for a moment and drink in the sight of the monumental Palace of the Watchtower nearby with its curved row of descending towers as it sits upon the Aesir-made channels that direct the flow of the mighty Urd River through its foundations. The sight is truly magnificent.

They then quickly make for the large main entrance of the palace proper and land neatly upon the wide and open courtyard. Some Asgardians stop and stare at the sight of the two Frost Giants now standing in their midst. Sigyn releases the two Jotun brothers and starts to float ahead… but Helblindi gently grabs her forearm and turns her around to face him.

“You have warmed my heart… let me return the favor.” The Jotun King then says softly as he pulls her closer. Sigyn puts her free hand on his chest to stop from being pressed flush against the Jotun King.

“You mustn’t go down this path with me.” Sigyn says as her emerald eyes fill with worry. The Jotun just looks at her confused for a moment.

“Why not?” He asks. “You have shown me, my family, and my people more kindness than any other. Can I not return the favor by showering you with love in return?” Helblindi then asks and watches the worry continue to dance in her eyes.

“Friend Helblindi. I cannot allow myself to get so close to you, or anyone else, at this time. My apologizes… if my actions and kindness have been misleading… but I simply cannot give you my heart.” Sigyn then says in somber explanation. The Jotun King sighs.

“Then I shall do my best to win it instead.” Helblindi then says with a smile and his red eyes are hopeful. Sigyn sighs then looks to Byleist who has wandered off a ways to drink in the marvelous sights around him.

“Come Prince Byleist. The two of you must stand before the All-Father.” Sigyn then says as she floats up to keep her hand in his. Byleist takes her left hand and smiles at the two as they float up towards the throne room’s balcony.

___________

Oh this is so infuriating to Loki! Knowing that King Njord of Vanaheim has a desire to wed his son, Prince Uller, to Sigyn and now here’s Loki’s Frost Giant half-brother, Helblindi, saying such kind and sweet words to his wife! Apparently the silver-tongue runs in the family as well! He maintains his disguise as Odin upon Asgard’s golden throne looking to everyone else to be calm… even bored. It’s all lies!

He watches with Odin’s single eye as Sigyn flies in (holding hands!) with the two Jotuns. Loki plans to have a pointed conversation with his lovely wife tonight about that. They land before the steps of the throne and the two Jotuns take a knee and lower their heads to Odin out of respect… as well as to not be seen as a threat by not kneeling. Odin rises to his feet.

“All-Father.” Helblindi says and his voice is a bit of a grumble as he speaks though his face is calm and his red eyes show no trace of hatred but rather detachment in the face of Asgard’s King. Loki takes measure of his new brothers… his Jotun brothers.

“I am certain Lady Sigyn has told you of what is to transpire here over the next few days?” Odin then asks and his voice is cold as he looks down upon the two kneeling Jotuns.

“Aye.” Helblindi says then adds, “She has been very kind to me and my people. I hope to continue to further the friendship so that our Realms can grow closer in peace.”

“This is good. Friendship and peace between Asgard and Jotunheim is something I have long been working towards over the past millennium. It’s high time some fruit was borne of such planning.” Odin then says. “My second son… Loki was half Jotun and he was the first born son to the former Jotun King, Laufey. His marriage to Sigyn sealed that peace… and their sons are rightful heirs to the throne of Jotunheim, should they desire it.”

“Sons?” Helblindi asks puzzled.

“Oh? Did the Lady Sigyn not inform you she and Loki Laufeyson were wed and have two sons together?” Odin then asks. Sigyn goes stiff, but she quickly recovers and steps forward as Helblindi looks to her.

“I did not tell King Helblindi that because my sons do not desire to be kings of any Realm. I did inform them of their heritage and they made the decision on their own volition.” Sigyn then answers as she holds her head high.

“Then without that claim of inheritance the treaty in void.” Odin says with a sigh.

“A new one can be struck if you are worried about the loyalty of the Frost Giants in your new venture. I have not taken a mate to be my Queen and thus have no heirs. If the Lady Sigyn would speak to her sons and they are willing… then I shall name them my heirs until one is born of my loins that is.” Helblindi offers. Odin raises his left eyebrow at this. Loki was not expecting his half-brother to declare such a thing as naming the sons of a Kinslayer as his own heirs… at least that is until Helblindi starts siring children of his own.

“You would make the sons of a Kinslayer your own heirs?” Odin then asks, challenging the new Jotun King.

“Aye.” Helblindi says and rises to his full height. He is now practically eye-level with Odin. “I have learnt that sons should not be condemned by the sins of their fathers. We are each of us individuals and free to choose whether or not we wish to bare them when ours fathers hand such inheritance down to us willingly or through force.” Now this throws Loki for a loop… This Frost Giant isn’t a blundering oaf! He’s fairly intelligent! Perhaps the Jotuns are better served to have such a king. The trick is to keep in the good graces of this Jotun.’

“You are much wiser than your father, King Helblindi. We shall work well together. Inform me when the day comes and you take a mate.” Odin says with a nod of his head.

“One day I shall marry…” Helblindi says and his red eyes fall to Sigyn then his gaze returns to Odin. “But for now that day is far off.” Odin nods his head in calm acknowledgement though his grip on the King’s spear tightens. Loki wants to jump off this dais and thrust Gungnir through the Jotun King’s heart for looking at Sigyn so. Odin merely waves his hand lazily and the golden light shimmers upon the Jotuns leather and fur vests over their hearts.

“These badges mark you as being under my protection. My people will cause you no harm so long as you are amicable towards them in return. I also ask that you foster goodwill towards my other guests as I hope they strive to do the same towards you. You may go now if you wish… chambers have been prepared for you both.” Odin then says and looks away from Helblindi towards Sigyn.

“If I may have a word with you in private, Lady Sigyn.?” Odin asks. She nods. “Very well… court is dismissed!” Odin shouts and thumps the spear upon the stone and all in attendance take their leave.

“I will see you at the feast then, fair one.” Helblindi says with a smile to Sigyn. She looks up and smiles giving a short nod of her head to the Jotun before he walks away. She watches him leave for a moment longer then turns towards the golden stairs to come face to face with Odin. His single eye is colder than winter on Jotunheim before she thawed the Frozen Realm.

“Take us to my chambers, Lady Sigyn.” Odin commands and she nods her head as a sad frown begins to paint her lovely face. They disappear in a burst of flame only to reappear in the King’s Royal Chambers. Frigga isn’t here since she is busy attending to the final instructions on setting up the feast in the great dinning hall which is just outside the massive main doors to the throne room. She will also be busy moving around and greeting each guest personally with Lady Sif and the Warriors Three in tow to guard her just in case a guest thinks they can get away with harming Odin’s Queen. Mind you she has her magic but a show of muscle is a more obvious deterrent in such cases and since Loki brought her back to life, he isn’t taking any chances. All of Asgard agrees.

“Mind explaining to me…” Odin starts with a calm sternness then the green shimmer flows over his body to reveal Loki. “Why you constantly flaunt yourself to that Jotun.” Loki says in cold anger as he turns to glare hard at her with his icy eyes.

“He is your brother-”

“HE IS NOT MY BROTHER!!!” Loki yells as his whole body bristles. Sigyn returns her own hard emerald glare at her husband.

“Stop lying to yourself, Loki!” She snaps in her own subdued yet fiery tone. “He is your brother. Half at least… and I am being friendly towards him because we need the Frost Giants if we are to effectively protect all the Infinity Stones you have gathered.” Loki physically balks at this. She has guessed his plan of building an army from the Realms United so quickly… and without being able to read his mind since he has been blocking her with his own psychic abilities (as well as the Eye/Soul Stone). He opens his mouth to speak but no sound comes out. Sigyn sighs.

“I’m not stupid, Husband.” Sigyn says softly though her saddened eyes accuse him. “There are others in this Universe who seek to gain hold of even one Stone… and there are a few who seek them all. With it being common knowledge that I and the Tesseract are here on Asgard… as well as the Gauntlet… how long do you think until some fool or Thanos himself comes calling?” Sigyn then asks. Loki is speechless for once. Sigyn sighs again.

“So you’re not seeking a Jotun to join you in bed?” Loki then says bitterly as he finally finds his voice. Sigyn rolls her green eyes at her husband.

“I already have a Jotun in my bed… a half one that is.” She answers with a suggestive smirk. Loki chuckles at that, yet it too, sounds bitter. He then walks to her… his skin shifts to pale blue and his bright blue eyes bleed to red with a hint of purple around the pupil.

“Then I suppose I am Jotun enough for you, my Radiance.” Loki says smoothly and the lust is clear in his tone as his blue hands take hold of her leather-clad hips. Sigyn’s breath hitches as one blue hand then goes to the back of her neck and the other slips further around her waist as he draws her closer. Their lips meet and the kiss is passionate, hungry, full of their desire for one another. Loki pulls away slowly and holds her face gently in his hands as he looks into her emerald eyes. “You are mine, Sigyn. Mine… and I am yours.” Loki says with a low possessive growl. ‘Though sometimes that isn’t always true… but she need not know about Lorelei. I have already dealt with the Norn Harlot.’ He finishes in the privacy of his own mind.

“So the Elves didn’t excite you today?” Sigyn asks playfully as she smirks up at him. Her hands sliding up to cup his face. Loki chuckles and this time there is mirth to it.

“Not like they used to.” He answers. “Though… I am jealous of Freyr. He has many children and I have but two… whom I haven’t even met yet.” Loki then gives a sad look as he gently strokes her cheek and touches his forehead to hers. “I would very much like to sire more children with you, my Radiance, and watch your belly swell as the weeks and months pass.” Loki then says in a near whisper as one hand slides down to touch her lower belly. Sigyn pulls away at that.

“Such a thing now would only raise questions, Husband… for you are dead to all others and I have no lover. How would I explain it to all the Realms when such a thing is beyond even my power?” Sigyn then asks pointedly and Loki makes a bitter face contorted in anger for the briefest moment. He will forever curse the decision to fake his death at the hands of that Kursed Dark Elf. Loki sighs letting go of his anger.

“I will not stand for you to take a male lover other than me.” Loki growls as he grips at the straps and folds of her corset.

“Then we cannot have anymore children at this time, my Love.” Sigyn says simply brushing off his anger as well and steps close to cradle Loki’s face in her hands as a hurt look fills his eyes. “One day you will have to reveal yourself and then we can stop hiding our love in the shadows… and in the light, I will give you as many children as you wish to have, my loving, over-possessive, very-controlling Husband.” Loki chuckles and cracks a wide grin as his arms circle her waist and he pulls her flush against him.

“That is a day I look forward to, my Radiance.” He says softly and they kiss. Her fingers tug at the tie restraining his waist length hair as his hands wander up and down her back until they come to reside upon her buttocks. Sigyn pulls away a little and Loki gives her a slightly puzzled look.

“We don’t have much time and I need to stay free to help some of Thor’s Midgardian friends… The Captain, the Archer, and their redheaded Sif may require my help.” Sigyn then says rapidly deflating the mood.

“What could those boorish Mortals be doing that keeps my wife from our bed?” Loki inquires with a mock sneer. He is actually very curious to hear her answer though so he watches her carefully.

“They are collecting that scepter Thanos gave you from a nefarious Mortal organization.” Sigyn says sternly. Loki’s breath catches as a moment of panic washes over him at her words.

“They must not touch it.” Loki starts as fear floods him then he regains control of himself as he latches onto his anger. “I knew Thor was a fool to leave the Key in the hands of their S.H.I.E.L.D. guards.”

“Key?” Sigyn asks then a look of realization fills her lovely face. “It’s an amalgamation of the powers of the Infinity Stones… and on Midgard the Phoenix Force trapped there will use it to influence everyone who handles it… The Firebird will free Itself… and that damned scepter has the power to do it!” Sigyn says worriedly and she starts to space out.

“I did try to warn them… but they wouldn’t listen and so I was gagged. Serves the whole lot of them right, Foolish creatures.” Loki says with a haughty air. Then he pauses as he notices the typical blank look upon her fair face. She then pulls away further from her husband. Only his fingertips touch her hips.

“I must go.” She says quickly then levels him with a stern look. “Be nice to your brothers, please Loki… for me.” She says gently as her eyes soften on him. Loki feels a pang of guilt from his earlier accusation towards her and nods his head in compliance of her command.

“As you wish, my beautiful Sigyn.” Loki says as he moves in for one more quick kiss. She smiles and pulls away.

“I love you… though you can be a pain in the ass at times, you silly oaf.” She says playfully and moves out of his reach.

“Thor’s the oaf.” Loki says then Sigyn disappears in a burst of flames and is gone. “I’m the schemer.” He finishes in a whisper to himself with a grin. Loki then turns around and comes face to face with someone he’d never thought he’d see again… or at least wished to never see again since he last saw her on Sanctuary… with Thanos.

“Hela?!” Loki says surprised to see the beautiful woman with gray skin and long, straight black hair standing in front of him. Her eerie bright green eyes fix him with a piercing gaze as a cold smile splits her lovely face.