He sat there atop his handcrafted seat, staring blankly the words that seemed to swim across the pages of the book he was trying to read for the thousandth time that week. Anxiousness filled him as the god let out a frustrated grunt, tossing the book carelessly across the bleached room.

Black hair curled gently as it kissed his shoulders, framing his face as he looked up with a bored expression. Icy eyes traced the guard as it marched by, not even bothering to look at the mischief-maker.

Today was the day he was finally let out, finally released from the hellish cage Frigga tried to make comfortable for him. Green and gold was the color scheme, just like his old room. However, this was much simpler, not so elaborate: golden nightstand, couch that doubled as a bed with green fabric, a small bookshelf, and a table and chair.

Finally, the man stood, hands locking themselves behind his back as he had done many times before. Taking step after step, long, thin legs carried him about the room as nervous pacing began. Brow furrowed in thought, the creek of an old, large door was heard, echoing off every ounce off wall and floor and ceiling.

Freezing, the god stood rigid, back facing his visitor as a smirk that could only mean disaster slithered across his face

"Loki."

The voice was strong and steady, yet the Frost Giant still detected hints of uneasiness and hope. Pathetic.

Turning ever so slowly, Loki faced the blond haired, blue eyed prince he had long considered an enemy, eyeing him up and down, expression growing.

"Brother," he spat, the word was a horrid venom on his tongue. "I see you are right on time for once. I would hate to be late to the newly found pets you love so dearly."

Cringing at the voice, Thor tried to remain steady and unwavering, a blank face playing at his features. "I can tell you are expecting me. And they are my friends." Unlocking the cage door, the lightning god was flanked by two royal guards and carried a gold bracelet.

Calmly, Loki held out an arm as he strode over towards the elder man with a heavy sigh. "I really don't see the point in all this, brother. I've been such a good boy. Sitting away, twiddling my thumbs, rotting," he spat as the clink of metal meant the cuff had fastened, hindering him from any and all magical abilities, "just like Odin wanted."

Ignoring the other comments as best he could, Thor pressed a small button on the cuff and it linked across to the younger's other arm, hand-cuffing him. Scoffing loudly, yet deadly smirk still adorning his face, Loki followed.

As he was lead out, the god of thunder stayed close, transporting he and his brother to the Bifrost. He just hoped this plan wouldn't back fire. As long as Loki had the bracelet he was of no harm... but that keep his mind from churning and whizzing, pranks and ideas swirling in his head.

Finally, after reaching their destination, the blond took Loki's arm firmly, giving him a softer expression. "You know why we are doing this. You know the parameters. No magic. No leaving the Man of Iron's towe-"

"Trust me, I am well aware of what is to happen," the Frost Giant hissed, his gaze cold and steely as the machine started up. Sucking in a breath and closing his eyes, Loki felt himself suddenly lurching forward into the rainbow tunnel. Groaning inwardly as their feet touched down on land not seconds later, the god prepared himself for what was to come, vowing to make them all pay.

"Pathetic mortals."

"Yupp. Nice to see you too, Reindeer games."

Whipping his head to the left, icy blue eyes narrowed as the watched the approaching the Avenger, hands clenching to fists. "Of all of Thor's little friends, you just had to be the first I see..."

Confused, Stark shrugged. "Hey, I'm letting you stay here, so be grateful," he commented, the edge of his lips twitching up into a smirk.

A clicking sound was heard and the god felt his arms freed. Well, mostly. The golden bracelet still wrapped firmly around his wrist. Straightening up, Loki stayed still, resuming his normal, blank face, studying the egotistical billionaire.

Ever since he had met the man, Loki couldn't figure him out. Every else he could, but Tony? He was a new puzzle, a toy to be played with. And the god just couldn't shake this... feeling. It boiled in his stomach, making his bile rise, forcing him to choke back a fit of anger.

Smiling warmly, Thor clapped a hand on Tony's shoulder in a greeting, thanking him for allowing them to join him and the rest of the Avengers, as well as allow his brother to accompany him.

"No problem. Besides, you wanted to learn about Earth cultures. What better time than Christmas, eh? Come on, the team is waiting."

Waving them along, Ironman turned and headed back towards the tower, the thunder god following closely behind. However, Loki walked along slowly, his smirk slowly coming back as he began to plot, wondering just how horrible he could make this 'Christmas' for the Avengers, most of all, Tony Stark.