22. Do not regret growing old, it is a privilege denied to many – ft. Thor and Erik Selvig, + Jane Foster
Wracking coughs echoed through the quiet medbay. Thor held Erik's hand gently, a silent comfort to the dying scientist.
"Damn lungs," the Norwegian grumbled, "Why'd they have to shut down now?" He squinted at Jane, who was dead asleep at his side. "And my eyes – I can't make out Jane's pretty face. Damn shame."
"Aye, tis a shame," Thor murmured, squeezing lightly, aware of his extranormal strength, and Erik's frailty. "Jane is the most beautiful when she is slumbering, for she is relaxed, and unfocused – the Lady Darcy is the opposite," he grinned, getting a wheezy laugh out of Erik as they both recalled Darcy when she wasn't in her own bed, and was instead sprawled out on whatever sofa was nearest in plain view.
"Ja, ja," Erik chuckled, before focusing on Thor, obviously having some trouble. "What I would give to be young forever."
Thor immediately became solemn, sorrow in his eyes as he brought his other hand to ensconce Erik's. "Do not regret growing old, Erik Selvig, for it is a luxury, nay, a privilege, denied to many across the universe. And I will not be young forever – have you seen my father? He looks fit to be buried." He joked, causing Erik to give a chagrined smile.
"You know, I always thought, after Jane got all mixed up in all of your adventures, that I'd get caught in the crossfire – that I'd die due to a stray bullet, or sword, even, or a falling building. I never expected to be…well, here, in a hospital, dying because I just am."
"Aye, similar thoughts crossed my mind, also – they were never pleasant."
"Thinking about someone dying never is," Erik said sagely.
"Indeed – especially when they are one of your friends." They were quiet after that, with only Erik's rattling breath filling the silence.
"I will miss you, Erik Selvig."
"And I'll miss you too, buddy – but I'll see you in Valhalla eventually, broren min?" The scientist asked in an almost-whisper, eyes fluttering closed.
Thor stood, leaning over Erik's body to deposit a kiss on his forehead.
"We will meet again, Erik Selvig. Travel safe to Valhalla, brother – may the Valkyries guide your soul home." The heart-monitor started to beep slower and slower, and Thor stood tall as it became a long, unending whine, Jane waking up, beginning to panic.
"Erik? Erik! No- no, Erik, I didn't even get to say goodbye, no!" Thor gathered her from off the bed, pulling her to her feet as she shouted, bringing a nurse to their side. He held Jane tight to his body as she cried, stoic as the nurse gave time of death, and prayed that the Valkyries would indeed, guide him home.
Goodbye.