I want to take the time to thank FlyingHamsterOfDoom, who Beta'd this story magnificently.
Thor is my latest craze, especially Loki. I sincerely hope you enjoy, I know it's a nice and long chappie ^.^ Please review at the end! I enjoy all sorts of feedback, but all criticism MUST be constructive! It's my story. If you don't like, for whatever reason, don't read. I'm hoping you do love it though :)
In the solitude of the library, Nikki studied silently, flipping over a page with her index finger and thumb. The library was none other than the famous Asgardian Library – well, actually, it appeared to be a place not many ventured in- with the dust hanging on shelves and all- so it wasn't all that famous; not to mention Asgard wasn't hailed for its selection of books... But Nikki didn't mind, she liked her solitude. Sitting at a table languidly, withone leg crossed over the other, back slightly slouched, she cradled the book in her hands as her eyes swept over the sentences, absorbing everything like a sponge.
Girlish giggling met her ears as a group of females passed by the door. Lazily looking up at the sound, Nikki could see past a bookshelf to the door beyond it. The women were long gone, but the floor still pressed with their footsteps, and the echoes of their meaningless chatter rebounded in Nikki's ears. Her face showed no reaction to the annoying sound, only returning to reading silently. She turned the page again, and after a second, turned it again. In this fashion she continued fluidly, reaching the middle of this particularbook. She was alone in this vast library, and it was such a shame that so much knowledge was going to waste.
On the desk was a pile of books the size of a small lamp, and on her right were two neat piles of books from the floor to the desk in height. After a few minutes, the book in her hands was softly added to the pile. Nikki picked up the next book, but upon reading a few of the pages, her nose wrinkled softly, and with a flick of her arm the book flew away behind her with a small 'thunk' onto the floor.
After finishing the pile, Nikki stood from her chair slowly, and entered the maze of shelves in search of a new selection of books to bring to her table. The shelves were so tall they fit into the ceiling,dwarfing all those who entered. Her form zigzagged in and out of sight before she stopped deep within the maze at one point of the shelves, the ends of her royal purple dress stopping silently against the ruby carpet floor. A beautiful pale hand reached up and plucked a book above her head, smoothly retracting it from the shelf and bringing it down to hold it.
The sounds of heavy footsteps made Nikki's eyebrows draw together. She could feel them through the flooring, a man's steps, they were searching, bold, purposeful, slightly tired. She froze as the echoes came to her. They drew near her desk, and she scowled in annoyance, hunched her head, and turning with her book in one hand and a handful of her skirt in the other, padded away silently as the footsteps moved further into the maze.
Nikki avoided him effortlessly, her mind knew the mapping of this place, and she identified that it was Thor searching for her by the heavy gait and swish of his cape. His body was larger and wider than most men, more muscular. The parting of his lips to emit a pant, the soft blinking of his searching eyes, and his large hands occasionally touching one of the mahogany shelves as he looked around them, were all things she observed. When he crossed into a new set of shelves, she could be seen a little bit away moving into a different set just a few steps after him.
Thor growled as he kept taking different turns, seeing only empty spaces and a maddening amount of books. He didn't know so many of them existed! He also didn't know if he was going in circles or if he had been in the same spot before, but he kept running, searching. After a few more empty aisles he grunted. He couldn't find the woman anywhere!
Thor did not know what to do, but finally, he realized he was lost. "Nikki!" Thor bellowed to the ceiling. "Lady Nikki!"
What he didn't know, was that Nikki was listening just around the corner, her head turned to where Thor was.
"Lady Sif requests your presence! I'm not sure if you can hear me, -!"
A small smile lifted her lips, before it disappeared. She could hear him fine.
"But Lady Sif requires your presence at the training fields! She sent me to come and find you!" Thor panted, hands coming to rest on his hips. Nikki could see all thiswithout actually looking; she could tell so much about this God. "Which is a lot harder than she'd said it'd be! Come out, beautiful maiden!" She raised an eyebrow. "I saw your books at your desk! I know you're in here!"
Observant of him. Nikki's lips curled slightly in amusement. Nikki stepped out of her hiding place as soon as she deemed he was punished enough for trying to find her, and then trying to lure her with the same compliments he gave the women he wooed. It was annoying, and no doubt unnecessary.
He didn't see her step out behind him, he had his hands on his knees. He didn't know how long he was running through the blasted library! But he somehow knewshe would be in here, she had to be, she spent so much darned time in here!
"Why does Lady Sif think that I would be summoned so easily?" The sudden question made Thor grin. After so much silence from her end he nearly believed that Sif had been wrong, that his instincts had been wrong. He whirled around, seeing the aforementioned woman standing there like she had just seen him. It really proved that this woman knew how to hide – which to Thor seemed like a magic trick. All of the aisles were tall and thick and there were no hidden corners, as far as he was aware.
Thor grinned victoriously upon seeing the slender woman with ashen coloured hair make herself visible. She wore a flattering purple garment and dangling earrings. Her curves allowed any man with eyes to appreciate them. She had long legs and her feet were bare. Her face, made of only graceful features, was blank, golden irises staring intently at the God that was hailed for not only his strength but for his rugged good looks. Her arms were drawn behind her back politely. She honestly looked like she had just arrived or something.
But if he knew Lady Nikki at all, he would not be grinning just yet.
Thor drew a breath. "She told me she needed your input and instruction." He said, referring to Sif.
Nikki's eyelids blinked slowly, seeing one of Thor's feet were pointing away from her, towards the exit of the place.
"Is she hoping to spar with me?" She cocked her head.
Thor chuckled sheepishly, both feet moving towards Nikki this time as he faced her.
"She hopes. She tests if she can draw you in, my Lady."
"She is entertaining a silly idea." And still, the face was blank. It was lovely to look at, her face. Herwas womanly, soft, and gentle. But confident. If she spoke more often, Thor was sure she'd be recruited as a politician, or diplomatic counsellor, or... whatever they were called. They were all the same to him.
Thor shifted on his feet uncomfortably. He swallowed and rubbed the back of his thick neck. Nikki tilted her head, something that scared many as she stared at them. He gulped again. She could hear his heart beat, his anxiety, and his glands starting to sweat once more. His horrid breath she could smell, he had been drinking today. It was still before noon. It was not unusual. But his discomfort was weakening Nikki's resolve, she didn't like to see it in a guy that was actually okay. So she saved him.
"Why are you, of all people, bowing to her requests?" Thor was surprised at the question. He beamed at the bait however, not one to take awkward silences well.
"She is wearing out the men like targets, my Lady!" He yelled in excursion (his voice was rather loud). Nikki closed her eyes, but decided not to say anything at the volume. She could hear him fine.
A small smile tugged at her lips. Even Thor got scared off by Lady Sif's vigour. She glanced to the floor as she got a mental picture.
"Oh dear." She acquiesced. "Tell Lady Sif I will arrive shortly."
"I will indeed, my Lady." Thor moved forward, going for her hand. She found his pleasantries insincere, so she wanted none of it. Nikki merely stared at him until he gave up and simply nodded. Thor turned and entered an aisle to the right, intending to find the door and rolling his shoulders with pride.
"Left." She called out. His footsteps faltered, then stopped. Back-tracked.
He padded into the front of her vision as he retraced his steps, wordlessly entering another aisle the way she directed.
She stayed in the same spot until she could hear his footsteps leave through the door on the other end of the library. Her lips curled into an amused smile as she sensed his unease.
Thor grunted and shivered in his armour as he exited, he could feel those golden irises on him right until he left.
Nikki ran a hand through her waist length ashen hair with a small sigh. She had washed it that morning, and left the wavy tresses long. Since then she had been in the library. To say that she was grateful for the interruption was an understatement. She actually felt tremendously excited. Gazing down to the book in her hands, she smiled softly as she ran her fingers over the cover. Surely, no one would realise it wasmissing if she took it?
Making her way to the training fields was an easy trip. People mostly tended to stay out of her way, but those few whom she had met with warmth and love approached her with warmth too. They had a small pleasant chat, complimenting her choice of dress once or twice, before she was on her way again. Nikki took a detour through the gardens, skipping through the grass and eyeing all of the flowers. Thoughtfully she glanced at all of the different types of flowers, before she made her choice and picked out a handful of bright yellow flowers with a blue centre. Then once more she continued towards the grounds that Sif practically ruled over.
She knew she was drawing close because of the shouting and grunting she could hear. My, Sif was pushing herself today.
"It's Lady Nikki!" She heard upon her arrival. She was well-known here. Some men were sitting on the edge of the training arena, and they all looked drunk upon first inspection. If you looked closer you could see they were just holding their stomachs, or other parts of their anatomy, in exhaustion and wariness, moaning like they had many aches. Sif hadn't noticed her yet, fighting aggressively with a young man; but Volstagg, Hogun, Thor and Fandral had- they cheered her as she came over.
"Hello guys." She smiled warmly. "Is there a place for me?"
"Lady Nikki you look ravishing today!" Fandral worshipped, arms coming up like praise.
"Oh thanks, Fandral." She knelt on her knees and sat on her ankles, flowers clutched in her hands as she watched Lady Sif, patiently waiting.
"Indeed," Said Hogun, looking her up and down. "If I were not so tired and my arm not broken, I would take your hand and kiss it milady!"
"It's alright, Hogun. You should get yourself to the medical wing." Nikki answered, chewing on her lip as she looked at Hogun, before she returned to watching Sif. "How long has this one lasted?"
"Only around four minutes. It's impressive, actually. She's disarmed him, but he's still hanging in there."
"I can see, Hogun." Came the drawl from the young woman as she watched the man flinch often and gracelessly jump about in a cowardly attempt toavoid Sif's blade. He was basically dancing around the arena like he was standing on hot coals.
"Volstagg wagers he won't make five minutes. I say he'll last till six. What do you say, milady? Want to try your luck with seven minutes?" Nikki's eyes were only on Sif's movements, she didn't even hear Thor all that well.
"I don't do bets."
Another voice, more inquisitive to Thor's blunt testosterone- "Lady Nikki, are those flowers? You know, Sif won't like those."
All the men zeroed in on the bouquet in her hands, the stems were all handpicked and still had several leaves on them. They all frowned in disapproval.
"She isn't exactly the typical maiden, Lady Nikki. Fandral tried to give her flowers once-"
"Shut your trap!" Fandral punched the other in the jaw. Any other time the action would've made Nikki raise her eyebrows, but she was focusing on Sif and Sif alone.
Besides, she likes Thor. And, just because she's a maiden of war doesn't mean she isn't a softie inside. Nikki warily crept forward on her hands and knees, missing the questioning looks aimed at her.
"Careful, Nikki, you don't want to pass that line-"
"I think I'm gonna," Niki muttered in warning (not that they were listening).
Suddenly Nikki leapt up from her crawling position, and took off running into the arena, emitting a battle cry and tackling the unsuspecting warrior Goddess, flowers in her hand and all. She was still in her purple dress.
Sif went down like a stick. All the men 'ohhh!'ed from the sidelines. The man Sif had been fighting breathed a sigh of relief.
"Finally!" Nikki sat on Sif's stomach, throwing her head back to get her suddenly ridiculously long hair out of her face, shaking it a little. "These are for you!" Nikki presented the flowers assertively.
Sif appeared confused before she sat up and Nikki got off of her to crouch nearby, hands still holding the flowers expectantly. Sif was looking at her like she was an alien.
"Lady Nikki? You came?"
"Yup!" She smiled.
Then the goddess of war looked to the flowers, taken back.
"These are for me?"
"Yeah! I thought you might like them! I don't know their names, I'm afraid." She petted the tops of the flowers with her palm nervously. "But hopefully you can name them! I think they'd like any name you'd give them." Then with a big smile she held them out.
"They're- they're beautiful! I am honoured, Lady Nikki!"
"Huh?" All the men blinked.
"What?"
"Honestly?"
Sif and Nikki embraced.
When they pulled back, Sif was looking at Nikki quite slyly. Nikki was gazing at Sif openly.
"I knewI'd get you to come out from your hole!"
"The library isn't a hole."
"It's practically a hole in Asgard!"
"That's true. Best place to play hide and seek. I lost Thor for ages before I actually took pity on him!"
The two women burst into laughter. Nikki helped Sif get up and the two women stood in the centre of the training field in perfect harmony, even with the disturbing sight of Sif holding a handful of chirpy flowers.
"At the banquet tonight, will you be there?" Sif asked, friendly dark eyes hopeful as she looked towards the other woman. She just oozed sweetness, from the way she talked, the way her eyes lit up, the way she stood,even.
Nikki scowled. "Ugh, yeah,my Dad's gonna be there."
"Really?"
"Oohh yeah." Nikki scuffled her feet, looking down at them. "I'd love to spend time with you, though, if that's what you're asking."
Sif gave a small smile, appreciative. She nodded. "Yeah, yeah it is. I finally get to socialize with a girl whose pretty hair I don't want to yank." She playfully pulled a fistful of it behind her head. Nikki yelped as she went along with it.
"Owww, heyyy!"
Next thing they knew they were wearing matching grins, just like when they were younger, all of those hundreds of years ago.
Nikki wore an azure blue garment for the banquet in Asgard. It was a halter neck and was straight until it touched the floor, which made it quite elegant, and it shifted from light blue near her bust to dark blue at the hem. Her ash blonde hair was left long, but she made white blonde braids every few inches, which were quite pretty in her opinion. Asgard found many reasons to celebrate, so every time she went she tried to get a different hairstyle. It was quite challenging! She added mascara to her almost non-existent lashes and had on eye shadow that matched the royal blue of her dress. The celebrations were just something to get through, to socialize, so she didn't try too hard. Plenty of times she skipped the parties and feasts only to avoid the drunk men and gossiping airheaded women. But some people weren't that bad.
Nikki had to attend, however, when her father did, and to be frank she resented that. She felt that she needed her independence, and shouldn't have to answer to her father after all these years, especially when he wasn't there for most of them. She loved him. Thankfully just because she had to attend for him didn't mean she had to talk to him.
When Nikki entered, she wasn't too eager to join others in the limelight. There were four hundred and seventy two seats in their assorted places by the feast, not including those reserved for royalty, and meats and foods of all assortments covered the tables which were decorated with a golden table cloth. It was interesting because everything of the interior was gold, yet the princes' colours were of red and green. When one of them took the throne, would the interior design change?
There was a large open area to mingle and an area for dancing. There was a throne for where Odin and Frigga would sit, (although Frigga mostly joined the women mingling around) and two seats for the princes, Thor and Loki. Thor usually stayed with the Warriors Three and other Gods, betting who could drink the most mead and who had bedded the most women, and Loki was the least noticed, but he usually ate and drank mead solitarily next to his father. By the time Nikki entered,the formalities were over, and everyone was starting to enjoy themselves. Some of the women were preening and men were peacocking and arm-wrestling.
Light came from an unidentified source in the ceiling- maybe it wasthe ceiling, or the walls- but it was very bright. Women's jewellery sparkled (precisely why she never wore any, nearly every woman in the room wore a single piece of jewellery, and the collective shiny-ness is a lot). The whole point of it was to attract attention, she knew that. But Nikki wasn't flashy and didn't want attention. There were many pretty faces in the court of Asgard, so one had to be more than that to keep interest and attention. Or no one would take you seriously. Just some advice ready if anyone asked.
Sif, true to her title, was dressed in light but beautiful clothes resembling warrior armour. Her lustrous black hair was let down for the evening, curling beautifully, unlike earlier where it was pulled back into a strictly tight ponytail. Nikki glided to her and plopped in the seat next to Sif – Asgard really loves its comfort – sighing only just loud enough to be heard.
Sif's eyes brightened when seeing her, and she smiled quite tomboyishly.
"You made it?"
Nikki rolled her eyes. "Oh yeah, the guards just wouldn't let me in." She plucked up a golden goblet and was about to gulp it down when she looked at the contents, grimaced, and without thinking chucked it over her shoulder.
There was a surprised shout from a man and a group of men began howling with laughter. Nikki's eyes widened – that was so thoughtless of her! – before she slowly looked over her shoulder innocently. Thor and his pals were holding their stomachs laughing and pointing at one man in dark and silver armour. Sif followed her sight and started howling with laughter like the rest of them.
"Oh Fandral! You okay over there? You look like you've spilled on yourself!" Nikki grinned at the end to try and calm herself. The man's entire shoulder and a slick portion of his back were wet, so he hadn't seen her do it. Even some of his auburn and blonde hair was a little dark from the drink. He was looking with wide eyes at her, and a tension rose for a second before he shook his hands, dripping everywhere, easing into a smile.
"Sorry!" Nikki winced. The man shook his head slowly, grinning, before turning back around to the other Gods, who were starting to die down in their laughter, going straight to the light punches on the arm and teasing.
"Phew...!" Nikki turned around and met eyes with Sif, who took one look at her and burst into laughter again.
"You're blushing!"
"What?" She said, aghast. Her hands came up to her cheeks, they felt fine! Maybe it was her whole body that was hot. "That was so thoughtless of me! That's not like me at all! It must be the nerves!" Taking a deep breath to calm herself down, she assured, "Oh well, never mind. It's all okay."
Sif was looking somewhere and then did a double take. "Nikki." She nudged the girl whose face was buried in her hands. "Nikki!"
"What?" She turned her face with a glum expression to Sif, seeing she looked excited about something.
"Odin wants us!"
Sif stood dutifully, tall and proud. Chin up. Nikki admired her sense of belonging, faith and pride. Nikki merely swirled her head to the aged man with a metal eye patch (she had no idea how it stuck there because there were no supports or cloth to wrap it around his grey head). Indeed the man was beckoning the two with his hand from his throne, a kind, affectionate smile on his aged face.
Sif prowled over, and Nikki had to jog to catch up. Sif stopped respectfully before the stairs and Nikki came to a stop next to her, the ends of her dress swishing softly. Both of them bowed, kneeling with one arm braced against their torso. Nikki was mindful to not get dirt on her dress, not that she cared that much.
"Rise, Sif," Sif looked up sharply and obediently. "Nikki," Nikki stood without any further ado, nervously touching the sides of her dress with her fingers, but stood calmly and stoically. Sif rose only a second after her. Nikki was a few centimetres shorter than Sif.
"You look stunning with your hair down, Lady Sif." Odin complimented. His voice oozed wisdom. Well, that's what it sounded like to Nikki. Sif nodded with a smile. Then Odin's one eye turned over to the young woman in the azure blue dress. "And Lady Nikki, that dress compliments you very well."
"Thank you, your majesty." Nikki smiled charmingly. She thought he would turn his attention back to Lady Sif, but he did not.
"Your father is here tonight."
Oh no.Nikki grumbled in her head with dread, but it didn't show on her face.
"He has done great service to me." Odin began. Nikki couldn't help the itch in her neck. "Your father has gone to war with me, and has given me great counsel in my many years of rule over Asgard."
"Which I must say, have been plentiful and just, am I correct?"
Odin smiled.
"Yes, indeed, child." He nodded just slightly with himself in a manner that could only be considered as pleased, opening his mouth once more. A set of white teeth could be seen, and it was a ghost of how Thor would look like if he were old and humble. "As I've said, Geirr has given me great counsel. He's a man of sound advice. There is no man I have placed my trust in more, than him."
Nikki gulped.
"Yes, sir."
Odin lifted his head just slightly.
"I feel that he has not been rewarded enough. He has refused gems, land, and even mead! Now, I can only turn to his daughter."
Nikki felt a little chilly, the man's smile was warm but she didn't like ever talking about her dad. Optimistically, she thought it would be over soon, and stood straighter.
"You are too kind, your highness. If you wish to reward my father's good deeds then please, bestow your gifts upon him, not me."
Odin seemed genuinely surprised, blinking. The girl had spoken so politely, stood so firmly, yet held such gentleness about her. It was endearing to his persistence, to say the least.
"Wouldn't the finest garments of Asgard tempt you?"
"Not at all." There was truth and honesty there, but it was uttered with kindness. Kindness to his request? He wasn't to be deterred.
"How about a dance, with my eldest son, Thor?"
"I-" She paused, before continuing confidently. Sif was still as a statue next to her. "I personally find Thor to be too... much,for me, sir. Perhaps Lady Sif would enjoy his time more."
"Oh?" This time the eyebrows rose. Nikki wasn't sure if it was a good or bad thing. "Do continue." The man's face was serious, but his voice was slightly curious, or was it dismayed?
Oh, crap. Tread carefully.
Her voice rang out confidently. "Oh, my sire, I do notdoubt your son. He is a man of strength and unfortunately, also a man of many women. Furthermore, every girl is entitled to her tastes. I prefer a man of intelligence and subtlety, to a man of brashness and brawn." Then she added lightly to placate him just in case. "Despite his courage. Sif told me once she likes that."
Sif turned to gaze at her friend incredulously, her denial coming up her throat to the seal of her lips. Really? In front of the Allfather, Nikki?
"Ah." Was all he said. Nikki's hands laced behind her back and she lowered her eyes. I'm talking like I would prefer-
"Then how about my other son? Prince Loki?"
Sif noticed how closely Odin was regarding her, with almost narrowed eyes but a friendly, amiable voice. Curiously, Nikki neither flinched, gasped, nor protested. She was just one to accept many people, even if it included Loki. The girl was very calm, still. Sif was genuinely curious at how Asgard's greatest hermit – and greatest mystery – would respond.
Nikki's first instinct was to utter shyly: "Um. That'd be nice."But then what would have to happen would be: She blushed suddenly, stepping forward. "IF he would have me! Please don't force your son, your majesty! He doesn't have to do it!" Her voice rang out endlessly, endlessly, endlessly...
Cleverness and tact hit Nikki, and she inwardly smirked at her own deviousness. Her lips curled at the sides.
"I would be honoured, your majesty, if he were to ask me of his own free will." She giggled at the end. Sif raised an eyebrow, before she breathed a sigh of relief – how this woman could be so charming under pressure was insane!
Nikki noticed the sudden silence, and her smile dropped.
"I-I didn't mean to assume. Forgive me." She looked down to the floor, licking her lips nervously. "Where is my father tonight? I haven't seen him yet and I-I think, I think I'll go and say hello."
Sif felt sympathy for Nikki. Her friend wouldn't dare look up yet. If she were in her shoes, she couldn't imagine what she'd feel like – but she definitely knew she'd just be speechless. She'd splutter everywhere and lose all grace. Not to mention, dignity.
Odin's smile held intelligence that was held with finality, and Loki, wherever the bastard was, Sif could tell waslistening in. He had ears everywhere. With Odin's attention focused on Nikki, the goddess of war gazed to her peripherals quickly, finding Loki sitting in a chair not too far off, gazing at Nikki with an unreadable expression and a finger rubbing his lips back and forth. It was disconcerting to Sif, who never knew how to read the trickster (no one did), but dearly hoped that Nikki didn't just land herself in some trouble.
Nikki waited patiently, slightly hopeful, slightly excited, slightly worried. When no reply was coming, she wanted to bite her nails like a chatterbox. Instead she raised her golden eyes to the ruler of Asgard, who was still regarding her quite carefully.
"As you wish, child." He consented with an all-important nod. "Go."
"Thank you, your majesty." She bowed and then hastily made her escape like a madwoman.
"Is this true?" Odin asked Sif, who was watching Nikki go. Feeling very watched, Lady Sif returned her gaze to the Allfather. "That you would wish to dance with my son? If he were to ask?"
"No! Uh- Many woman would. Womenwould." She saved herself, then corrected herself. If Nikki could do it, Sif could do it!
The ruler of Asgard smiled in amusement, before nodding slowly.
"Yes, they would. But not Lady Nikki."
"Not Lady Nikki. Nor me." Sif repeated, jaw firm, because she had nothing original to say other than her own denial. She was relieved to say the least that Nikki didn't have eyes for Thor – whom she'd crushed on for ages. In a way, Sif was actually proud of Nikki – for being a woman with her own mind, separate and independent of all the other brain dead banshees. All women should be like that! Strong!
"Has my son..." Odin's expression turned thoughtful. "Ever asked to court you?"
Sif's eyes suddenly wouldn't raise themselves from two steps up the platform. She shifted nervously, before she shook her head once.
"Except for in a drunken bet, no. He doesn't even look at me in that way, Allfather." Sif shook her head in denial. "I don't even like him in that way either. He's pompous, arrogant, and selfish and I don't like him." Sif was far more comfortable speaking freely to Odin, as she'd done so for a lot longer than Nikki had – mainly Sif knew Odin better than the blonde woman did – who retained the fear of him for some reason.
Something dawned in Odin's eye.
"Ah."
Sif cleared her throat to keep her voice strong, but she felt a lump there. "If you have no more need of me, my King, then I shall return to the celebration."
"Of course. Enjoy yourself, my dear." The man smiled, crow's feet appearing at the corner of his eyes.
"Thank you, my King."
Just after Nikki left:
Nikki wasn't looking forward to seeing her father, and in fact, she hadn't seen him at all. She decided to scout for him just so that she knew where he was so that she could keep away from him. Left, right, forward, back, nothing. Either he was lying on the floor drunk, or he was having a bathroom break.
Not knowing how long Sif would be kept with Odin, Nikki plopped herself down into a random chair, and put her hands in her face, her mind so busy reflecting on her entire conversation. She so desperately didn't want to sound stupid! She didn't want to sound desperate! And she didn't want to sound... like... like she was too opinionated, or something! She reallyhoped she hadn't offended the Allfather! And she hoped she hadn't offended Sif either, talking about her friend's obvious crush to said crush's father! Gah...
There was an abrupt cough next to her. Nikki sat up and pulled her hands away from her face, wearily looking at the person she assumed was a man (from the cough). Suddenly a hand was thrust before her eyes. Slowly looking up the hand to the face, with raised eyebrows and wide eyes she saw Fandral standing quite confidently with a smirk on his lips.
"I think you owe me a dance, milady." He said with playful scorn.
Shying away from the hand for a second, Nikki glanced up to his face again, back to the hand, and then the face. She couldn't see Thor or any of the others close, and wandered where they were.
"Really,Fandral? Right now?" She asked incredulously.
"Come now, milady. It's the least you could pay me for spilling your drink all over me. I'm not that bad, am I?" He smiled crookedly. Somehow she found herself slowly smiling back, even thoughshe didn't want to. She didn't know how much longer Sif was going to be, so why not?
Slowly she placed her hand on top of his.
"Okay... Quick one." His grin was infectious as he aided her in standing and began to lead her towards the throng of couples dancing.
"Excellent choice."
Nikki turned to look at Sif at the foot of the steps, only to find her gone. Alarmed, Nikki glanced around for her, but she didn't see her anywhere. She saw Thor though, he was still where he was before, now in the middle of an arm-wrestling match with Volstagg. Then she turned to look where Fandral was taking her, which was the very flippingcentreof the dancers. She felt self-conscious and crowded.
"Fandral," She protested with impatient feet. "I've changed my mind." She was about to turn tail and walk away before she remembered her hand was still in his black gloved one, and it tightened, bringing her back to the space in front of him. Her golden eyes snapped up to his face.
"Just one, smalldance, Lady Nikki. Then you can run and find Sif to your heart's delight."
He took her hand to bring it to his shoulder (dry,she thought), still holding her other in his black gloved hand and its partner now touching her waist. He didn't even wait for her to curtsy.
Nikki was just so purely stunned that she didn't say anything. Then he took a firmer hold of her waist and lunged her into the first step. Her blonde eyebrows raised. "I didn't know you were so assertive."
Fandral chuckled as they danced, the steps coming on their own it seemed. Nikki's face was set into a mild frown for having him making her dance, trying to give off an impassive visage, but she was actually enjoying it. Her pink lips curled gently.
"You follow me so fluidly, milady."
"Oh I'm sorry, I'll just be awkward and abrupt and embarrass us both, shall I?"
If it surprised him or not, Fandral only laughed. It was merry, light and cheerful. Despite her glare, Nikki still observed him, not taking her eyes off of his face for a small while, noticing the fluid grace of his body before she turned her face to find Sif over Fandral's broad shoulder.
For a while, she saw nothing, but when they turned about 180 degrees of the room, she saw her.
"Aha!" She exclaimed over his shoulder. Nikki felt triumph. Sif was in deep conversation with Thor, it appeared. They were both sitting on two chairs. Her eyes narrowed however at the strange body language Sif was producing. She was being... delicate. Fragile. But guarded, in her eyes. Thor had his legs spread, goods on show and leaning forward, a goblet in hand, elbow on knee while his other hand was on his other knee. He was grinning like a fool. Drunk. Sif's legs were drawn together in front of her chair, she was smiling too and they were slowly... turning...upside down?
"Oh!" Nikki gasped when she was suddenly upright again. "Fandral! I didn't even know that-"
She was silenced at Fandral's cocky grin. She gave her fiercest scowl.
"You didn't have my permission to dip me."
She swore she was only amusing him further, for his eyes were alight and his grin was widening.
"And how about now?"
Suddenly she was tipped back. She nearly met the floor. Fandral followed her, close. Nikki was stunned into silence, and merely swallowed. His hand was at her slender back now and was surprisingly strong.
She cleared her throat as they came up and she wouldn't look at him in the eyes. "I swear you're doing that on purpose." She grumbled.
Fandral coughed, a small blush on his cheeks. Nikki beganto get involved with the dance, moving herself closer into him as the dance dictated, practically tucked up into his chest; Fandral wasn't a bad guy, and she wanted to enjoy the dance.
"Merely following the dance, milady." She didn't see because she was looking at his chest (she came up to his nose) but he looked her over, their feet still moving and his face sobered from his earlier playfulness. "You look lovely tonight, Lady Nikki."
She smiled, eyes still lowered. "Thank you."
"Many men watch you." He said lowly, glancing around the hall.
"Thanks. They wonder how I can get my hair like this, don't they?" She brought her head away from his shoulder. Her light, chirpy reply in that gentle voice brought an amused grin to Fandral's lips before he started chuckling heartily. What a unique response. Nikki giggled and really got into the dance. She became a more involved participant, and Fandral had to observe the perfect posture Nikki retained, no matter what swirls or dips Fandral threw at her. She remained toe to toe, hip to hip with him as he dominated the dance naturally, all with a smile on her face.
"You have a lovely posture, milady."
"Thank you. I memorized this dance what feels like a hundred years ago."
He felt like a cold bucket of water was dumped on his head. Oh. She knewevery time he added an extra move just to see how well she'd fit against him.
Fandral's eyebrows raised, then drew together.
"You are different, from the other women of the court."
"Well, yes. Like Lady Sif over there, who looks... like she's leaving?" Fandral noticed immediate detachment in the dance, her hand slipping to his bicep. "Oh Fandral, I absolutely have to go." She put both hands on his shoulders and looked him square in his light green eyes. "Thank you for the wonderfuldance." Then she started running off like nothing happened – and was picking up her dress as she ascended the golden steps and practically flung herself through the door. People parted ways for her, people watched her go, and people wondered about her.
Tears ran down Sif's pale cheeks as she marched angrily outside. Her fists were clenched tight by her sides and she felt the need to do something – either plow through a target like a bull, or wrestle a giant to the ground, or to ride a horse for days and nights until she could forget the sight she just saw.
Stomping into the gardens, her boots thudded against the soft, fresh green grass. She sat down on a stone bench – grey, hard, cold – and wiped her tears almost impatiently, but they kept coming. She sobbed and pressed her face into her right hand.
The night air was cool and small flecks of pollen floated through the air here and there. At least Sif wasn't allergic. That really would be the icing on the cake. The sky was liquid night, only the stars and the moon shining unconditional light upon all things. It bathed Sif's hair so the waves would emit a sheen, and her shadow fell against a wall filled with ivy-like plants with exotic red flowers blooming for the moon. The air was calm and peaceful, but in Sif's state of mind she couldn't feel the breeze in her turmoil.
Sif also didn't notice the other presence because it blended in so well. It was observant, non-judgmental, compassionate. The figure moved slowly, gracefully, to Sif's side, and mumbled softly to her much like an angel.
"Hey there."
Sif's eyes widened and she looked up, but she felt no alarm or panic. She forced her eyes away to the grass, and daintily the woman took a seat next to the warrior goddess; the two so unlike in their natures, yet finding an affinity for each other, a harmony in the others' presence. Nikki felt her hair begin to move with the breeze she felt.
Warmly taking Sif by the hand, Sif squeezed it tightly. Nikki waited with almost all the patience in the world. She let Sif cry, but let her know that she was next to her, she supported her. Sif knew she didn't have to say anything, but it just came out –
"Stupid Thor!" The scorned woman sobbed. "He- He was talking to me, a-and- that stupid woman came over- She sat on h-his lap! And then they were practically rutting a-and kissing right i-in front of me!" She wiped at her cheek hard, swallowing. "It was disgusting,Nikki! You should have seen it! And he was just talking to me before she came over!" Sif straightened, turning to look the woman in the eyes.
There was nothing but compassion and sympathy there.
"What a harlot."
"Yeah." Sif looked down at the floor, feeling stupid and weak. She really was over-reacting. She never got so emotional like this! Her hand was tight around Nikki's, but she refused to tremble and she didn't want to let go. Nikki didn't push her. "I hope he, he, takes a fall into a hard place without his hammer!"
"He's an S.O.G, Sif." Sif glanced at her questioningly. "A son of a giant. If he can pass up a conversation with a woman such as yourself for a casual rut, then that shows some serious lack of character there." She threw an arm over Sif's shoulders, seeing her start to smile a little.
"S.O.G... Haha. I like that, Nikki."
Nikki grinned as though they were partners in crime.
"Yup. A big, hairy, stupid giant!" Nikki made a scary face at Sif, who started laughing hard. Giants aren't hairy, she wanted to say. But she didn't. Her ribs felt like they were constricting. Oh, she needed that.
After a minute or two it died down and Sif felt infinitely much better.
"Thank you, Lady Nikki." She wiped her eyes with finality. "I feel much better."
"Totally. Don't worry, I have this covered." The spunk and fire in her friend's golden eyes would have made Sif excited on a battlefield or made her proud elsewhere, but now it allured her. It stirred her strength again from it ashes, awakening her.
"How?"
A wicked grin adorned Nikki's lips, eyes burning.
"That S.O.G. will regret this, trust me. Don't you worry about it, my friend. I've got it covered."
I wanted this story to be the best I've written so far, so I've worked to develop Nikki and the other characters sufficiently.
Wasn't that odd how Fandral suddenly wanted to dance with Nikki? Oh well, we'd have to review, alert, fav and wait for the next chapter to come out so the plot can develop.
Please review! Thank you for taking your time to read my story ^.^