A/N: Confess, who imagined Loki wearing a striped robe looking like Adam from OLLA while healing? (Cause I did sometimes) :P

Sorry for the wait – I've been busy, but I've finally came back to 'Comeback' and here it is, the next chapter! Thanks to everyone who is reading and reviewing. You are the best.

Krystal_lazuli, thank you again for beta'ing!)

Please enjoy!

-O.O-

~ Chapter 7 ~

Mistakes. Part I

-O.O-

No matter how much people wanted the peace, in after battle times, Asgard was no better than any other lower realm, like say Midgard. Bifrost might be rebuilt but the time spent without it had creatures of various capabilities finding ways to get in places with the help of different artifacts. The rumor that Asgard was slowly coming up from the low was heard in every corner of the universe, which meant that there were still gaps in security, people who were hurt and angry for what had happened to them, unjustly, to help others sneak inside for payment. In turn, it meant opportunities to become the owners of quite a treasure from the famous legendary Vaults of the Eternal Realm. As far as anyone was concerned, the King had lost his grip on ruling, the Crown Prince was always busy, the younger Prince barely alive, and the strongest warriors shamefully banished from court as traitors.

Quite a chance, wouldn't you say?

Hushed whispers, under the table deals, cut off conversations if someone would step to hear what should be kept quiet, fear, and uncertainty of common folk. Unrest started to live on the streets of Asgard as well.

Back in the palace, Thor scrupulously continued to do what he must. Nonetheless, aside from the reports of mild discontent in Asgard (especially in villages where the all-seeing eye of the king mostly didn't reach) it was quite a shock when he found out that something dangerous started to stir in Midgard as well, though nothing too severe yet. And he found it out not from Heimdall, mind you, no.

Loki opened his eyes on the problem. It was quite the dialogue between them, because Thunderer at first could not figure out what Loki's aim here was.

:::::

Two brothers were having dinner – Thor sat at the near bed, but Loki chose to stay in bed – he said he didn't wish to move much that day. Thor then instantly became worried, but Loki, as he frequently did nowadays, cut Thor off before the Thunderer could say a word. Thor often became frustrated until he got it that Loki had no wish to indulge his older brother when he felt simply terrible or the pain got the better of him. Loki said nothing could change the fact that he hurt, so Thor should just drop it. Thor had to agree, even if all his being was against it. Loki was proud, but Thor consoled himself with a thought that very soon Loki would heal completely. They had to wait just a little more.

That day Loki was quiet, but his gaze returned to Thor from time to time. The moment the older god looked up, the younger averted it.

Finally, Thor's curiosity about Loki's peculiar behavior won over his ignorance, and finishing the meal he loudly put a spoon on a plate and bluntly asked what was going on.

Loki only bit his lip, not looking up from his own light meal the servants had cooked him – broth, some fruit and also honey – Loki chose honey over everything in his ration, strangely. Eir happily indulged him in this, glad that Loki ate at all.

"Thor. I don't mean to pry, but… What about your… mortals?"

"What do you mean?" Thor scowled in confusion and concern. Was that what Loki was troubled about? And why was he even talking about his mortals? Let alone about mortals at all?

"I thought… Oh. Everyone knows." Loki timidly put his dishes on his bedside table, wincing as a turn stretched his muscles. For a moment Thor even forgot to worry.

"What does everyone know?"

Thor has always hated the fact that he might be ignorant about something apparently everyone knew, when he didn't. It was a familiar tune with Loki all his life, who even had a special expression on his face exactly for this 'I know something you don't, idiot.' It was maddening, but Loki always clarified the issue in the end. Eventually.

Mostly when Thor was ready to kill him.

But right now it made Thor more worried than annoyed. Because something to do with his friends could be dangerous. Not for the first time had humans stuck their noses in something that was much bigger than them.

Loki watched Thor warily, trying to find something in his expression, while Thor was becoming more and more anxious. Thoughts bombarded his mind, the each wilder than the previous. Could it be that Loki's past plans reached his friends now? Or was something entirely different at stake here? Something mortals themselves foolishly called down upon themselves?

"You better ask your king…" Loki turned away, his voice suddenly uncertain.

"I ask what you know, brother. And you better tell me."

Thor wanted to trust Loki. But with mortals…

"Thor, I…" At the Thunderer's stern look, Loki deflated but his expression didn't change from its hesitance. "I have only servant's rumors. They talk sometimes in the back room. I have nothing else to do but listen. And I… thought you'd be interested."

Thor stared at Loki for a long moment, making sure Loki was not deceiving him. But seeing his little brother's exhausted and haunted expression from all the stress he was under the past days, weeks, months gave Thor pause.

Loki appeared to just… share the news with him, perhaps even warn him because Thor Odinsson in all the matters he put a hand in Asgard, could miss something entirely else – like matters going on in Midgard.

Loki… cared for Thor. Not about his human friends mayhap, but for Thor's caring about them. It was…

It was nice of him.

Thor stilled his temper, slowly exhaling, trying to show Loki that he wasn't angry or suspicious, but on the contrary – he smiled to relieve the tension and silently apologize to Loki.

"Please. Tell me what you heard, Loki."

The younger god blinked slowly, lifting his face to Thor's and tentatively smiled back. And begun to repeat what rumors flew around the palace. It seemed one of Odin's youngest councilors had randomly heard the conversation between the old king and gatekeeper's page. Thor asked who exactly, but Loki only shook his head – he didn't remember because he couldn't concentrate at the time. Odin seemed to not overly care whatsoever for any news coming from Midgard. But judging from the intensity on the king's face, as well as displeasure marring page's voice, it was something obnoxious.

Loki then said that Thor shouldn't concentrate on it – you never know what those mortals could call on themselves. He suggested Thor focus on Asgard and continue his duty to her people. The younger god just wanted Thor to know the facts so he wouldn't be surprised later, or angry because he didn't know or was told about it. Just… a little reminder, as Loki said. And if Odin dismissed it, then it was nothing to worry about. Loki then changed the subject, and the older brother was glad to speak of some other simpler matters.

Nothing to worry about indeed.

Only Thor couldn't banish a deep worry and dread that appeared in his mind for many days to follow.

:::::

Since that talk, Thor indeed focused solely on Asgard, as he should. His father ruled still, his politics more harsh and impatient than ever, but tolerable for now. Odin didn't quite show the signs of wishing to enter the Odinsleep anytime soon, but Thor suspected that it was fairly possible which in turn was putting Thor on edge – sooner or later he would have to replace Odin, indefinitely, whether he wished it or not. Memories of his previous coronation assaulted his mind and although years had passed, Thor was still not sure if he was ready to completely settle down, cut down particularly every tie he had with Midgard, knowing he would not be able to visit being this busy, not to say forget about any kinds of adventures, forsake his mortal friends, his love, and become the King. Become the one who needed to make difficult decisions, sacrifice things for the good of Asgard, be the man above sentiments.

If he even wanted to.

The big difference was that he was alone like he never was before on his first coronation and the big part of his reluctance to rule was because of this. People now were not so cheery and happy like that first time, his friends were banished from court, his mother who could help and guide and comfort - gone, his father angry and unavailable and Thor didn't dare to plead for help if the worse happens and he would be in trouble, and Loki - not the man he was before.

Thor wouldn't lie to himself, he was still wary of Loki, still hesitant to leave the past rest, but he made the choice. He made the choice to trust. At first a little, for Loki was clearly too closed off himself, just as watchful and careful about everything Thor did regarding him - be that a selfless try at providing comfort or a harsh yell here and there (or sometimes at Loki as well) when Thor couldn't keep his temper. Loki was quiet and passive, but he was considerate and scheming. However, try as he might, Thor considered all of Loki's thinking as an invaluable assistance to improve Asgard as well as help Thor manage his duty. Not for the first time on many occasions, Thor has mentioned Loki's involvement in fixing many cases in the court of Asgard. People accepted it nicely.

(The look in Loki's eyes when Thor revealed this information was so worth it).

Not to say what emotional and psychological help Loki provided Thor - consciously or just being there.

(Alive).

-O.O-

Not surprising that Thor would finally have to absentee himself from the secure walls of royal palace as well as from Loki's side. Odin wanted to hear nothing of Thor's continuous refusing to leave the city for the sake of his heir's comfort and pride. No more, the King said. Thor was leaving to the villages and yes, he would leave without the fuss. Thor was displeased but resigned – people living in the far reaches of Asgard needed his help and presence just as much as those in the city did. Besides, he in fact stayed home mostly because of Loki... No, it was the only reason. On the bright side, Thor asked his father to grant permission to take the remaining Warriors from the Three and Sif with him, and Odin begrudgingly allowed it.

Loki assured him that with his two guards and the fortress full of Einherjar he was safe and that Thor shouldn't worry. At Thor's hesitance, Loki coldly reminded him that he was still technically a prisoner (for the lack of knowing better) and if Thor was afraid that Loki would do something, he was still too weak so… To which the whole Healing Wing heard the Crown Prince's angry growling at Loki's foolish presumptions.

All in all Thor gave Loki's guards strict instructions to keep others out from Loki's rooms and keep Loki safe, protecting their prince to their deaths. Royal guards dutifully repeated their vows.

Speaking of his friends, Sif and Fandral were excited to leave on adventure with Thor as they had asked of him repeatedly. Volstagg was glad, but respectfully refused to leave the city – after all, he had family here, and since losing his position his wife was very cross with the big warrior leaving and endangering his life when his children risked becoming fatherless. No reasoning could sway Volstagg's wife so he had to stay at home – if not nearly but at least in the city. Thor had only laughed and heartily patted his friend's back at his misfortune, and left, glad that one trusted man was there to keep an eye on Loki. Volstagg said that he would visit occasionally, though he was not sure Loki would be pleased.

-O.O-

Later when Thor would think about it, he would realize that he should have known. It was truly predictable that something would happen the second he left the city and took many good warriors with him.

He shouldn't have left Loki alone.

-O.O-

It was early evening when Beil found himself in a light banter with his royal charge. The young guard suspected that the second prince of Asgard has not lately had company to talk to – that with being put in a cell (reasons for such a harsh treatment were still unknown to him, and by the king himself – it must have been something drastic, but surely saving Asgard was worth some small indulgence, right?) but it didn't stop Beil from sharing some facts of his life with Loki, just like before. It was amazing how familiar it felt now, after years of not seeing each other. Even if they were not friends, it was still pleasant to be politely inquired about his health, his life goals, his family. Loki wasn't invading. Loki was mostly passive seeing as he has just woke up and asked Beil to help him walk to his chair near the windows. From then on the two young men found themselves in an easy conversation.

It continued for quite some time until suddenly Loki cut himself off halfway through a word. His eyes grew distant before he snapped out of it and muttered something under his breath, looking without blinking at the closed door of his chamber.

Finally he turned back to look at Einherjar, who also stopped talking seeing Loki distracted.

"Pardon me, but I feel… Beil, could you- could you please go check on the door?"

The guard straightened in his seat and quickly heightened his senses but heard nothing that could bring the other man such abrupt distress. Everything was silent.

"Why? Milord?"

Loki mildly shook his head but stubbornly returned his gaze to the door.

"I may not be entirely healed yet but my magic… I feel something is wrong."

Beil hesitated a moment, but then stood and walked to the entrance, his hand on the hilt of his sword. Beil still heard nothing from the other side of the door, but as soon as he stood right before it, he felt it – the typical vibrations some special magic device (often illegally purchased at a high price from banished or criminal magic users) used on all kinds of entrances to fool those inside the chambers silencing any sound. A true sorcerer never needed such measures nor could others detect them, but to those without magic it was completely different. Guards were taught specifically to recognize the workings of such tools in the academies so that royal protectors would be able to reveal their presence and prevent anyone using such sorcerer's trick to quietly sneak around without people realizing it. Any men or women with no drop of magic in them would not be able to feel anything – but a mage would know. Like Loki did right now.

Beil realized his foolishness at being distracted and away from his post, assured that no danger lurked around. And why should it? They have only just defeated the Dark Elves!

The loud trump made him immediately throw the door open and with a startled gasp grasp, he realized the consequences of his mistake.

The sound came from the body hitting the floor - his shield brother was laying on the ground, weaponless, overpowered by a number of… creatures. There were so many, in size and shape, running and sneaking in the halls, mostly acting like vandals. Marauders, all of them.

Where did they come from? Why now? What did they want? Did they attack everyone they saw on their way just to catch Asgard off guard in its lowest?

Or… as a distraction?

Why here

The Vault!

Before these thoughts and conclusions flashed through his mind, Commander Beil Belioffson alongside his shield brothers was attacking those dishonorable ugly curs that dared to come in these golden halls to bring destruction and havoc.

-O.O-

He wasn't prepared for such drastic changes in his day to day routine, less so that his precious heavenly food would get overthrown by the dozens of running Einherjar. In no time it got him on his feet in alarm.

His day was going mildly, the young lads he fought with bare hands in secret from palace's watchers left him giddy with joy, because there was nothing better (aside from a good meal) than beat thy opponent and hear him cry 'Yield!'

The loud cries accompanied by whispers that there was an ambush in the palace; the enemies getting into the Vaults was heard in the crowd. Against restrictions laid onto Volstagg the Valiant by Odin himself, he chose to quickly join the forces to protect the place. He had no weapon, but it wouldn't be a problem as eventually someone would lose theirs.

(And who knew maybe his bravery and honorable actions would get him closer to the life he had left behind fighting for his friend Thor).

Thor! Volstagg almost tripped from the realization of the vow the Thunderer asked him to make. Loki was there, near the Vaults – mostly bedridden and weak as a kitten, with no weapon or proper protection in the face of this sudden dishonorable attack. Thor would have his head if something happened to the Trickster. He should hurry up!

-O.O-

It was good to know that others were not caught completely unaware. In the length of the Hall at least six guards – seven with him – were engaged in fighting marauders. Of course, it was not so good looking as there were at least five times more of Aesir opponents.

Already having killed a number of foes, Beil was on his way to kill another when one of his comrades ran beside him and shouted the news that General Tyr and his men have already put an end to the skirmish in the Vaults, that the doors to the treasures weren't even breached. Beil smiled in satisfaction, cheering mentally for his fellow warriors while fighting his current enemy – a heavy armored seven foot tall monster wearing a white painted helmet complete with two sharp tusks. This one was hard to overpower – that with the ax the length of his owner.

The announcement was met with angry growls all around from Asgard's current enemies – and rightfully so. It was excellent the Vaults were protected, but as it was, it caused one dire effect.

Rage borne strength.

Striking and blocking the blows of the now three foes at the same time, Beil caught himself on the thought that at least one adversary from the three was putting on quite a challenge. It seemed with Thor gone, the enemies waited mere hours to attack. They wanted to win by sheer numbers without much skill. But as Beil's fight was progressing, some criminals appeared to be not less skilled, but on the contrary – they fought like warriors.

In the corner of his eye, a young Einherjar saw the men of Asgard's army as well as from his own squad trying to withhold the attacking force and push thy enemies away from the palace. It was progressing slowly because of the great difference of numbers but at least the enemies were pushed away from the Vault. They must have hid themselves somewhere in the rooms and then used technologies (maybe even found after the Dark Elves in ruins) to breach the premises and attack in one big wave.

Drat! Beil thought frantically as he felt his back collide with the hard stone as he was strongly pushed into the wall by someone running from the corner. How did I not see him? While raising his head, only sharply trained reflexes saved him from being stabbed. Beil couldn't catch his breath after the shock of the close call with death, when another missed blow flew into his head. Stars exploded in his vision, and before he knew he was beaten mercilessly in the face, chest and stomach by massive fists. That unrelenting assault continued until he was hauled on his feet and the ax handle was pushed under his chin and pressed.

Beil, absolutely bewildered, helplessly rasped a weak cry, feeling his neck crushing – he couldn't breathe already, it was impossible. Black dots appeared in his eyes – it seemed the ugly smirk of the monster would be the last thing he would see.

Is this it then? The end?

On the verge of death, Beil saw a flicker of something green and before he could surrender to Valhalla's call, he was released from his death trap and fell on his knees, wheezing. Lifting his head as if it weighted a ton, Beil saw his prince – his savior – shoving the small dagger further into the criminal's back, after then swiftly grabbing the monster by the chin from behind and slitting its throat.

Beil stared dazed as Prince Loki lightly whirled on his feet to parry the enemy's sword with his little weapon, sidestepping the bulky man and quickly ending him. In a couple of moves, Loki cleared the place around the fallen guard for the time being, disposing of immediate danger. Then he turned to him.

Loki looked at Beil from above his crouching position with something unreadable in his eyes but soon he reached to give Beil a hand to help him stand. Beil grasped the prince's arm – thin and shaking but the hold was strong. Loki pulled Beil on his feet, and clasped his shoulder, wincing a little when giving his guard back the sword he lifted off the floor. Beil took it automatically ready to fight again, back to back with the Prince of Asgard… when suddenly he paused.

The magnitude of what was going on and who exactly was standing beside him befell on Beil, making his heart squeeze in distress. He quickly rounded on Loki who was attentively looking for a new target. Beil saw how excellent and fearlessly Loki fought but he was still dangerously weak, only moments ago roused from his bed; his arms struggled holding a tiny knife against the force attacking him.

"Please, Prince Loki! Stay back!" Einherjar cried, trying to lead Loki back to safety. Loki couldn't be here. Beil would better die himself than let Loki come to danger, and not after his prince just saved his life.

"I can't just sit entrapped there!" Loki snapped. "Not only can they corner me there but I can help-"

"Please, no, milord! Stay inside!" The guard hit the current marauder in the face, still trying to push Loki back to the doors. They were only five feet away!

"I refuse!" Loki hissed.

"Look out!" The shrill cry of Beil's comrades rang in the hall. Both men turned simultaneously and immediately ducked as a shower of gun shots sprayed around them.

Two young men looked up to see the second line of enemies changing the first. Beil pressed Loki to the ground covering his head as the wall behind them exploded after the second wave of blasts. Their foes were ready to shoot for the third time, when something unexpected happened.

Loki smoothly slid from under Beil and using his still recovering magic created a magical singularity that with a great force blasted the criminals who were ready to fire away. It gave them an enormous advantage for Aesir warriors who cheered and were quick to get back in a fight, their victory closer and closer. But at the same time Loki powerlessly fell on his knee bowing his head, the strain visible in his shaking hands and ragged breathing. Beil saw how the Prince gritted his teeth in determination and in one graceful move raised right back on his feet. Beil sliced through the pink two horned beast and met his eyes with Loki's. The ruffled prince's eyes sparkled at their small victory, a tiny smirk playing on thin lips. Beil also smiled, straightening himself before his Prince - after all, it was Asgard, warriors proud to fight their enemies to death. Beil was glad to fulfill his duty for his betters, without failing or embarrassing himself.

Enemy ranks were thinned considerably; many ran away for their lives when it became clear the skirmish failed, even with such a huge difference in the number of fighters. Asgard's army was strong and brave and no one would ever defeat it.

Beil watched as the last of foes were being taken care of, the hall almost free from them. The maddest ones were still going berserk but then it was easier to attack at once, so the Einherjar gathered to beat them together.

Just before Beil was sure that the road was free and he could take Loki back to the safety of the healing rooms, there was a high screech and another marauder appeared just from around the corner, heavy ax high in his hands. The huge ogre pushed two guards aside who tried to stop him, whirling his ax in a circle, all the while growling like a madman. Two Einherjar were hit one in the head, another in the ribs. The other guard who crossed his way was stricken hard in the neck, immediately lifeless on the floor. Beil saw the monster over Loki's shoulder and realized that it would collide with him and Loki in less than two seconds.

He was too late to shout a warning.

Like in a slow motion, Beil watched how Prince Loki's brows furrowed in confusion seeing his guard freeze, how predictably he turned to see the cause of Beil's wide eyes and opened mouth. The young Aesir couldn't fight a scream of fright and rage seeing the enemy colliding with them, striking Loki right in the chest, exactly where the wound that put him in the healing hall in the first place was.

It dared…

Beil exhaled. Leaning away from the ax, he avoided the monster and stepped behind it. In the corner of his eye, he saw Loki fall like a stone, landing painfully on his back, body instantly arching in agony. There was no sound aside from a short ragged cry but then it seemed the air was cut and Loki could only scream silently, eyes rolling back in his head. Beil's mind registered that information only secondly, because now he has just brutally beheaded from behind the bastard who dared to harm the Prince of Asgard.

Wasting a moment to appreciate how blood leisurely stained the golden floor, Beil then rushed to where Loki was on the ground, lying still and silent. Falling on his knees beside Loki Beil carefully put a hand under black haired head and even as he saw that Loki's eyes were open he still checked the pulse. Too high. Loki must have gone into shock.

Trying to not go into shock himself, Beil leaned to Loki's face and murmured.

"It's alright, my Lord. It is over. We won." He spoke soothingly. Regret marred his voice. "You are- you ARE going to be fine. Please forgive me but I have to lift you." With this, he did just that in one motion, trying to shake Loki as little as possible, holding him close to his body. In no time Beil finally moved back to the chambers and carefully positioned the wounded man on the bed. Hel, it had been almost over and then this… How unfair!

Loki had coughed twice as his body seized and then he lost consciousness. Beil helplessly watched the aborted movement of the delicate hand moving to the swollen rapidly staining with blood chest before it limply fell on the bed. Giving the last glance on the figure of the one who while injured did so much to help protect Asgard, help him specifically, Beil quickly ran to find the healers, cursing all the way.

Unfair.

-O.O-

Rounding the corner, Volstagg gasped.

Valhalla above! But he was late!

Fighting the scum, he was stopped before he could reach Loki's room and had to fight thus only left observing from afar – and what he saw surprised him but soon made him very angry.

Loki, face smeared with the drops of someone's blood, body hugged only by the thinnest of material without any hint at armor or shield, with a tiny childish knife was killing one of the monstrosities strangling his watch guard. Loki, standing in the middle of the battle, surrounded from all sides, fighting. Then guns fired. Volstagg should invite the lad who covered the Trickster on the ground to the inn. Maybe even share some food with him-

Disgusting creatures! Why could they not just run away with their tails between their legs? Why should they attack him? Well, now he would show them the valor of Volstagg the Valiant!

But his hit missed, strangely – because… his enemy just flew away from him? Oh! Loki pushed the scum by his seidr! Good move. Maybe Thor's brother had some aces down his sleeves still. But wasn't he a little weak for such a trick? Young idiot, look how you doubled in on yourself!

But as he got distracted, merrily exchanging the blows with some little imp, Volstagg missed the real danger that tore down upon everyone in its path. Pushing away the imp with one mighty blow in the nose, Volstagg ran after the monster – it was just for his tastes to beat it!

Only it appeared he was too late. And everything happened too fast.

Lads lying insensibly after being hit, Loki not being fast enough to step away and falling like the dead after being hit (Ouch!) in the chest, Loki's guard beautifully killing the monster. Looking how Loki was lifted from the floor, limp and frail, Volstagg yelled in frustration, dropping his weapon away.

Damnation! Thor would beat him senseless for this!

Volstagg hurried to see to Loki as he noticed healers rushing into Jotun's chambers – it must be bad. By Hel! Though before he could enter infirmary, the giant warrior found himself roughly pushed back by two Einherjar who materialized as if from thin air, and took him by the arms from behind, growling at him to stand back and get lost, before he too would be arrested for roaming where he shouldn't.

Before anything could escalate into a memorable brawl with a lot of cursing, Volstagg was saved by Loki's personal guard, Belioffson, who took the lead and stopped the scandal.

"I have to know how he is!" Volstagg roared. Thor had to know how Loki was, was more accurate.

"Prince Loki is…" Beil shook his head in regret. "He is going to be fine."

"But what happened?"

"He saved my life." The guard said simply with a little proud smile, albeit a little embarrassed. He then waved for the warrior to leave, to the great disappointment of the biggest from the once Warriors Three.

Being kicked away quite rudely, not allowed anything to see, even the crown of the head of Loki, Volstagg with a heavy heart left to the coop. Thor had to know about this.

-O.O-

It took hours to ride back in the palace, rushing the poor horses to exhaustion. When he got the message from one of the Royal Ravens, where Volstagg curtly described what happened and that Loki was somehow engaged – hurt again! – Thor felt his mind reel.

It has become too repetitive as of late – not being there for Loki when his little brother needed him. Thor had to know Loki was fine.

Loki was fine. Volstagg would have hinted if the worse had happened.

But by Odin! Thor shouldn't have left.

-O.O-

After three hours of relentless run (his men, Sif and Fandral would come tomorrow), Thor had finally arrived in the palace and instantly moved toward the Healing Hall, not minding anyone who tried to get his attention or talk to him. There was blood on the floor, servants having no time to wash it all. Guards marching around. Reconstruction going underway. The same picture all over again since Dark Elves attacked.

Thor didn't stop at the doors to knock but pushed them open right away, thus startling two girls making them lose the vials from their hands, glass slipping and breaking on the floor. Looking at everyone, Thor noticed how many eyes of the present people were haunted and wary, most probably because of renewed fear. But seeing the Crown Prince back in the palace calmed them, albeit not overly cheered. Thor hadn't noticed.

Blue eyes finally found what they were anxiously looking for. Eir stood leaning above Loki – he seemed well, thank the Norns - whispering in his ear to which Loki nodded a little in agreement. When Loki turned at the noise and saw Thor standing at the entrance, he sighed. Thor couldn't be gladder for the tiny crooked smile thrown his way, showing Thor that Loki was relieved to see him.

Thor walked closer to the bed, the young healers running away to busy themselves, which left Loki, Thor, Eir and her assistant Leda in the room. Eir bowed to Thor, but quickly returned her attention to the bedridden Prince.

"How do you feel, Loki?" Thor asked in worry. Loki grunted.

"Oh, splendid."

Lady Eir huffed in exasperation. Thor sighed, knowing how difficult Loki could be. But he was serious!

"I am serious!" Loki blinked unconcerned.

"Nothing too drastic aside from yet another color my skin got – violet this time, so I am fin-" Eir leaned to Thor, cutting Loki's insincere tirade.

"He got hit in the chest, my Prince! The blow was strong but Prince Loki was treated quickly and so the consequences are not as dire as they could have been." Here she returned to look at Loki who only lifted his brows. "Still, no getting up from the bed for a couple of days and NO MAGIC, you foolish boy! Strain you put yourself in could have ended you! What were you thinking?"

"What?!" Thor gasped. Loki used magic? Why would he harm himself so?!

"I don't know." Loki sniffed exasperated. "Maybe I didn't want myself and others to get shot in the head? Really, what was I even thinking?" As soon as Loki finished, Eir shouted like a worrying mother hen.

"Don't you talk to me like that, young man! Your safety for me is forefront-"

"Well, for me it isn't."

"Foolish boy!-"

"Yes, you repeat yourself, dear Eir." Eir's assistant Leda noiselessly laughed in her hand as she gathered medical equipment and quietly left the room. Thor stepped between two bickering people before the whole situation would escalate into a fight, because Loki was capable to vex Eir like no one else, but Eir was just as stubborn.

"Loki, enough! Eir only cares for you-"

"Thank you, Eir." Loki smiled sweetly. His smile was false, meant to be deceiving, but his eyes were sparkling in genuine gratefulness. Loki was truly thankful to the Head Healer. But Thor noticed that Loki was not as well as he wanted others to think, judging from the sweat glistering on his forehead, from the tightness around his eyes, from the weakness in his limbs. Eir must have seen it too, because she closed her eyes for a moment and sighed.

"Oh, just lay still and sleep, Loki. Please."

"… Right." Loki said quietly after a pause, amusement gone, averting his eyes from Eir's pleading ones.

On her way out after she checked everything, when Thor wanted to comfort the distressed healer, Eir surprised him by smiling and winking at him. Thor was able to keep his expression neutral and not laughing at the tricks of that amazing woman. Oh, but Eir manipulated Loki! Good. It meant Loki was in good hands.

His mirth disappeared when the brothers were left alone. Sitting at the foot of the bed, habitually laying a hand on Loki's knee, Thunderer took some time to think of what to say. Loki was dutifully trying to rest, eyes on the ceiling, his hands hovering over his ribs. Thor decided to start from afar.

"Why do you think they attacked?" Loki shrugged.

"There are many who don't like Asgard. Opportunity presented itself, I think." Thor nodded absentmindedly. With recent actions – Odin's mostly - too many realms didn't like Asgard. Even people within Asgard herself. Loki hummed in thought.

"I heard Volstagg wanted to worm his way here?" At Thor's nod, Loki rolled his eyes. "I am glad he was not allowed then."

"Why not? I ordered him to protect you-"

"Then he did a marvelous job… seeing as I am back at stage one."

Thor thinned his lips at the familiar phrase he had once heard Loki say. But this time he couldn't be angry at him. Yes, Volstagg failed him, but he was not the one at fault. Loki too was a fool to come out from safety, to hurt himself using magic, least of all fight someone much stronger than him in his current recovering state.

Thor smiled a little. But a brave and fearless fool, still loyal to Asgard.

(Because Thor had thought about another thing, while raiding here. From the look of it, for Loki it was a perfect opportunity to run, disappear from any possible consequences Odin could have put on him in the future – his father couldn't ignore Loki forever, could he? But Loki stayed and fought for his home, protecting the palace, saving lives. Loki could have run. But he didn't. That was what mattered.)

"I am sorry I left, Loki. I-"

"Please, Thor. Stop it. You had every right to leave. You had to leave. It is no… no fault of yours." Loki said. Thor protested though.

"But was I here-"

"Nothing would have changed. So stop. It is not the last time you would be away. So stop thinking about it." But Thor just couldn't stop. He was angry at the whole situation. What he wanted to say was long in coming.

"If father didn't send me away, Asgard wouldn't have been attacked! He can't protect it without me! But what if I had to leave? To Midgard maybe? What then? Why doesn't he do anything like he should instead of punishing me?"

Loki hummed, disinterested in Thor's yelling. Sighing, he closed his eyes.

"He means to have you here, because he fears you will leave. Thus he would lose the picture of the strong realm, with its golden champion – you – because Asgard would look weak without you. And All Father couldn't let other realms look even a little close to the might and beauty of the Eternal Realm. This arrogance would be his undoing. How could he… not understand that not standing equal without diminishing one's potential is only making matters worse…?" Thor listened with a slightly opened mouth, surprised Loki spoke about Odin. "Already Midgard is strong in some fields, Elves' technologies thrive greater than Aesir swords… Dwarf's armor is what keeps Aesir safe and you don't even appreciate it. Odin can't have it all… so he gets to sit you on the throne and keep you there with his lessons and his wisdom and his course you would have to bring to life…" The more Loki talked, the fainter his voice was becoming. "You… won't be Thor, King of Asgard. You will be the Son of Odin King of Asgard. No will, no freedom to make a choice for yourself… You won't be…" Loki trailed uncertainly before slowly turning on his side, away from Thor. Thunderer, a little struck by Loki's last words, lightly touched his shoulder.

"Loki?" The younger god was silent for a while, lying under the warm blanket, frozen.

"I wish mother was here… I need her." He whispered at last.

Pain of loss hit Thor suddenly and with a great force. The wound in his heart – fastened and barely healed - got ripped open over again with Loki's quiet lost pray. He too wanted to curl under the furs, to bury himself and sleep, but he needed to be strong for his little brother.

"I know. I need her too."

Thor knew he had to go soon, there were too many matters to attend even if he was not called back but came without warning. He had to talk to father's council, try to make some steps to straighten this place, had to… His head was too full of thoughts, emotions, and worries as to try to sort them all out.

"Brother?" Thor touched a thin shoulder. Loki stirred with a whine.

"Hm… What? I'm tired, Thor. I got punched in the chest... It hurts."

Thor leaned away sheepish, watching as Loki struggled with staying conscious. Of course, Loki needed to sleep and Thor would leave him alone.

But… No. He had to know. Razor sharp words still rang in his head. About father, about his possible fate, the future he didn't want. Was it really what Loki thought?

Or was Loki deceiving him for one of his schemes?

Thor didn't want to believe it, didn't want to doubt, but with Loki you were never sure. Not as of late.

"Were you being serious?" Thor asked directly. Loki buried himself deeper in the bedding. Loki's question sounded muffled whom under it.

"'bout what?"

"Your words – did you mean them?" Loki tiredly resurfaced to look at Thor with the expression resembling great suffering.

"What… what were we… what did I say? I don't… Thor-" Loki suddenly curled in on himself.

"What is it? Loki?" Thor was immediately on his feet, carefully putting a hand on Loki's head.

"When would it stop hurting…?"

Thor didn't know to what exactly Loki referred to. It could be anything.

It could be his wound (almost healed to be reopened yet again), it could be the damage of the still open wound in his soul, after revealing his heritage, the bitterness for his fate after all the mistakes made in anger; no doubt it could be the hurt of being completely ignored and disregarded in their father's eyes (how Loki endured it in silence would always astonish Thor) or at last it could be the endless pain of their mother's loss. It could be anything.

(Returning to Loki's tirade, Thor gathered that that had to be what Loki unconsciously thought about him and Odin and Asgard's future… That appeared to be what Loki believed in. Until now what Loki had said regarding Thor's rule was a little too close to being accurate and realistic… Could it really become Thor's future?...)

Thor walked away from the Healing Halls with a heavy heart. People were panicking again, which was exhausting to take care of. Thor was needed in the dungeons to secure and interrogate prisoners to find out what was it they wanted and who was the instigator. He should write an excusing letter for the families he didn't have time to visit in the villages. He needed to speak further to Eir about Loki's health. He needed to sort his life out.

Thor sighed and walked.

-O.O-

A/N: My apologies for the imagined layout of the royal palace and that I made the Vault being situated near the Healing Wings.