Whosoever
Chapter 1: The Dilemma Defined
Stars shimmered in Asgard's dark, mackerel sky. They peaked through the clouds that littered the sky scape and set Thor's scenic view aglow. The crisp air and patterned clouds reminded Thor of the fond winter he spent on Midgard several months ago. He remembered his first cup of hot chocolate, the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, and the climatic snowball fight where he bruised three of his five comrades. Ah, Midgard.
Thor stood majestically on his grand balcony. His mind kept flashing back through various events that had taken place over the last two years. He recalled his banishment to earth, his encounter with the destroyer, his necessary destruction of the Bifrost, and the helping hand he lent in winning the battle for Manhattan. Considering that victory had been achieved on every front, Thor was all smiles – initially. Unfortunately, there was a new dilemma. Thor wanted to ignore it, but he could not. Anxiety was undermining Thor's serenity. Why must this happen so soon? Am I ready?
A few short days ago, Thor was told that his ascension to the throne would be upon him sooner than anyone had anticipated. The throne would bring with it a great responsibility. The protection of Asgard would become his highest priority. There was a great chance that Thor would have to give up his allegiance to the Avengers and delegate someone else to Midgard's protection. This was an unpleasant thought. Thor had grown very fond of Midgard and its people, especially the Avengers. Will I truly have to sacrifice all my new friendships? I've barely gotten to know them. The possibility of never returning was difficult to accept and left Thor bitter. Having no desire to rest, Thor decided to roam the realm and continue his pondering.
I know I should be happy. It's a privilege to become king; it's also a costly undertaking. Maybe being king wouldn't appear so costly if there was someone to rule alongside me. Alas, while I love my home, there is no one here that my heart favors.
"Thor. Thor."
Torn away from his thoughts, Thor turned around and saw his mother approaching. "Yes, mother," he responded as he took her hands into his and kissed them, "Is there something you need?"
"No, not I. It is your father who wishes to speak with you in his chamber."
"Has something wrong occurred? Is it Loki?"
"No, no. He didn't appear anxious or upset. I believe it's a trivial matter but one that he wishes to discuss with you, nonetheless."
"Then I should go. Thank you for the message."
Moments later, Thor was in the presence of Odin.
"You wish to speak with me father?"
Odin looked up from his literature and replied, "Yes. Come. Have a seat."
Thor walked closer and took the seat alongside his father's chair.
"Thor, you recall the conversation we had a few days ago concerning your ascension?"
"Yes, father. When the time comes, I hope to find myself capable of 'filling your shoes', as they say on Midgard."
Odin smiled. "You will son. You have many a great characteristics of a king and you've grown in your maturity."
"Thank you, father."
"There is something you lack though. Something that will aid you during your reign. Something that will help keep you balanced and level-headed once you become ruler of this realm. While it isn't required for kingship, it is highly recommended."
"Father, speak simply. Just tell me what it is I lack and I shall acquire it."
"Son, you lack companionship. You have no partner with whom to share your throne and more importantly, your bed chamber," replied Odin with the slightest of smirks.
Thor's pupils dilated in response to Odin's statement. He was a tad uncomfortable with the subject matter though it had just been on his mind.
"Must we discuss this now?
"Yes, we must. This topic has crossed your mind, yes?"
"Yes, father."
"Has no one triggered your affections?"
"I'm fond of a few but I've failed to act upon my desires because . . ." Thor paused to choose his words wisely. He really didn't want to divulge any information. "I've failed to act because I fear your disapproval."
"Why would I disapprove?" asked Odin, though he already knew the answer. He wanted Thor to be open and honest about the matter.
"Because my affections are not aroused by Asgardians."
"Thor, while I would prefer that your love be of Asgard and be of the opposite gender, it's not for the reasons you assume," said Odin.
Thor looked at his father in shock for Odin knew that Thor was considering a male lover.
"I'm concerned that your love and affection will not be reciprocated by a Midgardian," continued Odin, "In addition, they're so fragile. They will pass away long before you every feel the onset of old age. Also, a female would provide you with a true heir and our lineage would continue. All of that aside – I just don't want your heart to be hardened. A hardened, broken heart will not bring out the best in you as king."
"I understand. I have much to consider. Please excuse me, father."
"Of course."
Thor proceeded to leave but there was a question still stuck in his head and he just had to turn around and ask it. "Father, how did you know my current affections were towards men? I mean, I was in love with Jane and I've had relations with females in the past."
Odin simply replied, "Thor, I'm not just the all father. I am your father and I know my son."
Thor smiled and responded, "Of course, it was silly of me to try to evade you. Good night."
Thor exited the chamber and resumed his roaming of the realm until he arrived at the shattered remains of the BiFrost. Thor could see Heimdall in the distance, standing at its edge, on guard as always. Heimdall heard Thor's loud presence well before he arrived.
"Hello, Thor."
"Greetings, Heimdall. Do you welcome company this evening?"
"Good company is always welcome," replied Heimdall, "So, what are you brooding over?"
"Am I that transparent?"
"Actually, you're opaque," replied Heimdall with a very minute smile.
"When did you acquire a sense of humor?"
"When all is peaceful, I allow myself such moments. As to your first question, the sky reflects your mood. This is the first nightfall in some days and usually the first night has clear skies. This time it's arranged with scattered clouds. Your mind is scattered and unclear, is it not?"
"My apologies for the cast of clouds and yes, you are correct."
"Apologies are unnecessary. So, what are you brooding over?"
"Well, as you know, I will be assuming the throne sooner than expected."
"Yes."
"And, well, I have no one with whom to share this kingdom."
"Ah, you're feeling a bit lonesome. Well, do you desire anyone at this time?"
"Not here, but I do have a strong desire towards others"
"Others? You mean to say Midgardians, correct?"
"Yes, three of them actually."
"Is one of them Jane?"
"No. Jane no longer searches for me and my eyes have fallen upon . . . others. Unfortunately, I don't know if they desire me in the same fashion. If they do, who's most worthy of the throne and would that person be willing to make Asgard their home? Did I mention that I desire three men?"
"That is a non-issue."
"You are correct. Here on Asgard it isn't an issue, for the most part. Unfortunately, father is concerned with heirs and lineages. No female equals no pregnancy and thus no blood heir to the throne after myself. In addition, most male Midgardians don't condone same gender relations let alone marriage of any kind.
"I cannot speak concerning the matter of heirs but as far as the Midgardians are concerned, you need to determine their prejudices. Personally, I would simply ask them which gender they preferred," stated Heimdall plainly.
"Men of Midgard aren't usually open to such discussions. Being direct may not work. In fact, it may provoke the wrong response."
"I forget how primitive they can be," replied Heimdall, his brow furrowed. "I'm sure you'll find a suitable manner in which to approach them. I can't wait to see how these courtships progress."
"You and me alike." Thor began to leave. Then he stopped abruptly. "Heimdall."
"Yes?"
"You can still see and hear the people of Midgard, correct?"
"Yes."
"Have any of my friends spoken of me since I've returned to Asgard?"
"All have spoken of you."
"Do any of them show any romantic inclinations towards me?"
Heimdall's miniscule smile returned as he answered the question with a very blunt, "No."
Thor's hope was as shattered as the BiFrost. He simply looked over the edge of the bridge towards Midgard and sighed heavily.
"My response should not deter you in your quest. As you've stated, Midgardian men aren't always open or vocal about such matters. Find an appropriate means to gauge their interest."
"I shall. Who knows what lies beneath their facades. I should go and prepare for my return."
"You are aware of the repercussions this may cause?" asked Heimdall with his usual seriousness.
"Yes. This visit could radically change the Avengers and my relationship with them but the reward is well worth the risk. Will you help me with my endeavor?"
"I'll help as long as your requests are within reason."
"Thank you. Enjoy your evening."
With his last words spoken, Thor flew to his quarters to begin planning his conquest. Heimdall remained at his post. He looked into the sky and watched the clouds slowly dissipate, reflecting Thor's newly cleared mind and restored focus.
Meanwhile, on Earth . . .
Steve, Tony, and Bruce were having breakfast at Stark Towers, the new hideaway home for the Avengers. Bruce was enjoying his toast, coffee, and morning paper. Steve was munching on an apple and Tony was just about done with his pecan and blueberry pancakes.
"I need a drink to wash this down," Tony said aloud, to no one in particular, as he walked over to the mini-bar and poured himself a glass of scotch. Bruce and Steve shook their heads in disgust as Tony returned to the table.
"What?"
"Who drinks scotch with pancakes?" asked Captain Rogers.
"I do."
"You really need to improve your eating habits," stated Dr. Banner, after swallowing his last piece of toast.
"Yes, I do – but I choose not to at this point in time," said Tony as he finished off his drink, placing the empty glass firmly on the table. "Well, I'm off to my lab and I don't want to be disturbed."
"Working on another suit?" asked Steve.
"No, cold fusion actually. Another of my pet projects."
"Have you been able to replicate your previous results on a macro scale?" asked Dr. Banner.
"No, not yet but I will. With each successive experiment I've increased the scale of the reaction. It's only a matter of time. I'll keep you posted."
"What makes you think you can pull off cold fusion. The U.S. Dept of Energy hasn't even been able to do that?" asked Steve, slightly annoyed by Tony's arrogant assurance.
"Well, Captain Rogers, I'm not bogged down by rules, regulations, and lack of funding. I make my own rules and I have enough money to fail over and over again until I get it right. Not that I fail often. Also, the government has no true incentive for creating renewable energy."
"And you do?" asked Steve.
"But of course. There's money, prestige, and more fame to be had. I'm especially fond of the more fame category. I can see the headlines. Billionaire, Tony Stark, single-handedly ends the energy crisis. Tony Stark delivers cold fusion to the masses. Can't you see it, Cap? I can. Every person and corporation will be rushing up to kiss my – "
"Okay, Tony. We get the idea," said Bruce.
"And you called Loki a diva," said Steve as he rolled his eyes.
"Excuse me, sir. Sorry to interrupt but Nick Fury is on the line."
"Put him on the screen, Jarvis."
"Hello, team. I'm looking to gather everyone up later this evening. I know I'm not one for social activities but I figured a small celebration was in order for all the hard work and victories we've had over the last several months. So tonight, following our debriefing, we're having a party."
"Where is the party being held?" asked Tony.
"Stark Towers, of course," replied Fury.
"Of course," replied Tony.
"Please pass on the message to Clint, Natasha, and Thor."
"How are we suppose to contact Thor? He's returned home."
"He'll be told by Heimdall," replied Bruce to Steve.
"Who is Heimdall?" asked Tony.
"Heimdall is the guardian gatekeeper of Asgard. He can see and hear all that goes on here. Just speak and I'm pretty sure he'll pass on the information to Thor."
"And you know this how?" asked Tony with one eyebrow raised and a smirk. He knew Bruce had a thing for Thor. Whether it was a man crush or something more, he wasn't sure.
"Oh, I've just been, you know, doing some research on Norse culture and mythology."
"Well, Mr. Heimdall. If you're listening, please tell Thor he's invited to a party tonight at my place!," said Tony loudly, his chin tilted up towards the ceiling. "I feel really silly having just done that."
"Says the man who speaks to a disembodied artificial intelligence," Fury retorted.
"Hey, at least Jarvis responds back," replied Tony. Everyone broke into laughter.
"See you all tonight," said Fury before disappearing off the screen.
"And on that note, I'm headed to the lab to play with my toys." Tony sauntered away, leaving Steve and Bruce in the common area.
Bruce finished off his coffee and continued to read his paper. Steve picked up another apple from the basket of fruit and began to eat it.
"Hey, Bruce."
"Yeah."
"What sparked your interest in Norse mythology?" asked Steve while munching on his apple.
"Well, Thor did. After the fight he and the Hulk had, I was curious to learn more about him. First I wanted to know if he was a real god. You know, immortal. Then I wanted to know about his powers and that hammer. I guess it just boggled my mind the first time he fought the other guy one on one and sustained no injuries, except a bloody nose which seemed to heal immediately. My research on him is a bit of an obsession now."
"I completely understand."
"Really?" Dr. Banner put down his paper in curiosity. "How so?"
"Well, Thor's just a cool guy, god, whatever. I just relate to him. He's gone through many of the same issues I"m going through now. You know, being thrown into a world he didn't understand. Having to assimilate to fit in and get things done. I wonder what it feels like for him, being a god, surrounded and even marginalized by humans. Think about it. He actually allows himself to take orders from Fury, Tony, even me."
"Hmm, I've never considered that before," replied Bruce.
"Thor has completely shattered my preconceived ideas of what a god is or what a god should act like. I mean, we ate shawerma with him and tonight we're literally about to party with him. How many can say they've actually partied with a god? The god I grew up learning about never seemed to be home."
Bruce chuckled and sat back in his chair. "Ain't that the truth."
"Well, I'm gonna head down to the gym and do some training. Later."
"Later, Steve."
Back on Asgard . . .
"Heimdall, you have a message for me?"
"Your presence is requested on Midgard."
"Something urgent?"
"No. It's a simple debriefing followed by a celebration."
"That's wonderful news! I'll be able to return to Midgard sooner than expected. Unfortunately, that leaves no time for preparation. I'll have to improvise. Thanks for relaying the message."
"You're welcome and good luck."