"Your name is Sigyn, correct?"

Aura paused on her way toward the laundering chambers. Her heart stopping at the voice behind the question. Turning around, she curtsied. "Yes, your majesty. How may I serve you?"

Odin studied her. A raven perched on either of his shoulders. "I simply desire conversation. Walk with me."

She swallowed, fear drying her saliva. Still, she inclined her head and followed him. She couldn't deny the ruler of Asgard. No matter how much she wished at times. This was most definitely one of those times. She didn't care for being alone with him. And although Queen Frigga gave her a new pearl necklace, she couldn't help but wonder if Odin could see through the illusion.

"I've come to understand you're one of my wife's handmaidens. It appears that she favor you. Could you think of any reasons why?"

"I'm afraid not, your majesty. I interact with her no more than any of the other handmaidens. The queen is consistent on the time she gives each of us."

"I see." He turned a corner. "Yet, she chose you to care for Loki in her stead. That's correct, as well, yes?"

Why this question? He knew she interacted with Loki; he escorted her to his cell once. "I visited him twice, I think. Maybe three times? Only to take books and clothes to him. Nothing more."

"From what I've been told, his demeanor improved considerably after your visits. It's hard to imagine that happened because of a few books and a change of clothes."

Her eyes searched the polished floors of the corridors as they walked. Casually checked the area around them. No one seemed to think it strange that the king strolled with a servant. No one was coming to her aid. She blinked a few times. "He did allow me to cut the threads on his mouth." Which Odin, himself, approved of. Why act oblivious to this? "I'm sure that's what lifted his spirits."

"When was the last time you saw him?"

"Perhaps a month ago? Maybe a little more."

"It hasn't been recently?"

"I'm afraid not, your majesty."

"I see."

Aura calmed her rapidly beating heart the best she could. She played with her hands in front of her so he wouldn't noticed the perspiration building on her palms. What did he truly want with her? Where was he taking her? She was just as uncomfortable with him as she was with Nafni.

The Allfather glanced down. "What do you do for Frigga?"

She blinked at the change in subject. "Mostly menial tasks. Fetch what she needs. I even serve the other handmaidens occasionally. Being one of the younger slaves, I do some of the more physical requirements of our job. Handle most of the errands."

One of the ravens observed her keenly. The other took a moment for preening its wings.

He made another turn. "May I be honest with you, Sigyn?"

"Of course, your majesty." She swore her weakening legs would give out at any moment.

"I don't trust your kind. Can you fathom why?"

"I'm certain there are many rightful reasons, your majesty."

"Indeed. However, I'm willing to make an exception for you. You seem quite honest. And you seem to have connections the others of your kind do not."

Her gaze briefly lifted. She didn't like the implications of this conversation. What was he going to have her do? At least, in her normal form, he had been up front with how he treated her. She only sensed manipulation here. It sickened her stomach.

An eyebrow rose in amusement. "You may take that as a compliment."

"I am grateful, your majesty."

Odin led her to an overhanging balcony. Placed both hands on the wide stone railing as the ravens alighted. His single eye taking in the decorated courtyard below. "I have another confession to make. I fear my wife is plotting against me."

She stood behind him and off to the side. The typical placement for a servant. Even though she remained in his peripherals, she hoped he couldn't see her increasing anxiety. She didn't want to hurt Queen Frigga. She could never hurt Queen Frigga.

He chuckled a bit. "Come here, child."

Aura glanced over her shoulder. Would no one save her from this predicament? This was as bad as the nightmares she'd been experiencing lately. Tentatively, she approached. Fighting every electrified nerve to remain outwardly calm.

"Do you know the story behind this plot of land?"

"I'm afraid not, your majesty."

"Many years ago, back when my father ruled Asgard, this wasn't just a courtyard for triumphant celebrations. This area originated as a triumphant execution ground for the public."

He brought her here to intimidate her? She swallowed again. It was working. Even though he could've stood and talked with her. That would've intimidated her just as much. He was an extremely powerful being with an army and many powerful allies. If he wanted her dead, she would be killed without problem.

Then again, she had been in this Realm for some time and remained alive. Thanks to Queen Frigga. And Loki. Heimdall and Thor looked out for her, too. She supposed she had powerful allies, as well. Her eyebrows knitted. Nevertheless, the king scared her.

The Allfather continued his nonchalant tone. "My father could be ruthless at times. I suppose it's why I can be seen as harsh. He loved public executions. Thrived off the positive responses he received from them. He claimed it brought the people of Asgard closer together. Claimed it enforced how strong he was as a ruler. What do you think?"

Her vision travelled over the beds of flowers and shrubbery. Did their roots share the same blood-soaked dirt of a murdering ring? If Bor was anything like Odin, not all of the executions were based off fair trials. "As a slave, I can't say I have an opinion on the matter."

More laughter. "You are intelligent enough to know your place. I enjoy that." He motioned with a hand. "My father put many of our Realm's enemies to death here. He burned frost giants, froze fire giants, strung up a few outsiders. All so he could demonstrate his power. Demonstrate Asgard's power. Sometimes, at night, I can still hear the screams of his victims."

She trembled. Fought the urge of running back to Queen Frigga. Distant cries of the past filled her mind. Why was he telling her this? For more terrorization? No. There had to be a reason. As senile as he seemed at times, he never did anything without a reason. But what was the reason? What could he want with her?

Odin cracked his neck. A darkness overcoming his voice. "He killed my mother here. Would you like me to tell you why?"

Her gaze shot toward him, but she refrained from eye contact. Not many knew the fate of Queen Bestla. She ruled with Bor such a long time ago. Aura managed hiding her shaken voice. "If it pleases your majesty."

"She was a giantess. Enemies of Asgard planted rumors she was a frost giantess. My father fell into deep paranoia. He hated the Jotunns with a passion. A passion that I see remnants of in Thor. My father watched my mother's every move. She conspired with my brothers to leave this Realm and never return. Which she succeeded in doing. However, upon learning of her disappearance, my father searched everything she touched, and he found a deeper conspiracy. She had been plotting his murder."

Aura focused on the lovely flowers once more. She wondered if this story held any truth. Hopefully, for Queen Bestla's sake, it didn't.

He carried on with his tale. "My father hunted my mother to the end of the Realms. He was driven, obsessed with finding her. And he flushed her out. He was a mighty warrior; seeking game was an easy task for him. He brought her home. Tied her to a stake in the middle of this courtyard and let her starve to death. He left her body there for weeks, feeding the ravens that answered his call. It was rather gruesome for a child to see."

She nodded. It was gruesome to hear about. "I can imagine, your majesty."

"Death is just as important as life. You see, a death, if executed properly, can speak louder than life. However, there are those who fill their lives with so much...chaos, that it can be difficult to make an example with their death. I'm afraid I won't be able to do it justice."

Her eyes slightly widened, but she casually faced away. Hoping it looked like something beyond the balcony caught her attention. The acid in her stomach travelled into the back of her throat. She hated playing this game. Hated lying. It wasn't her nature. "You are a wise king, your majesty. I'm certain you'll find a way that satisfies your needs."

"Do you know of whom I speak of?"

"I'm afraid not, your majesty." She very much knew who he referred to. He chose his words carefully. Words associated with certain individuals. An individual she loved.

The Allfather gripped the railing. His whole body tensing. "You've been patient with me thus far. I suppose I can be upfront with you. Shall you tell anyone of this conversation, I'll test my renovation of the courtyard with you. Do I make myself clear?"

Aura nodded some more, heartrate spiking. "Yes, your majesty."

"Loki has escaped from prison. Even after I created runes that stripped him of his magic." He made a fist and punched the stone. Startling the maiden beside him. "The only way he could've escaped is with help. I'm certain it was Frigga. She's the only one who cares for him. Unfortunately, I have no proof of the concept. This is where you come in."

"How shall I serve you, your majesty?"

"Frigga likes you. She likes you enough that she sent you to care for her favorite son. Which means she keeps you close. You will continue your daily routines, however trivial they may be. You will find out how Loki was released and who aided him. I know he didn't act on his own. I don't care who was involved; I want everyone's names."

She hesitated. Even though she already knew the answers to his inquiries, he wanted her to spy on Queen Frigga? She was no spy. She was honestly surprised she'd kept up the charade with Odin this long. "As you wish, your majesty."

"Very well. I will find you when I feel like you've had enough time to acquire information. You are dismissed."

Her stomach boiled as she curtsied. Silent steps carried her back toward the palace.

"Sigyn?"

Eyes momentarily squeezing shut, she faced him once more. "Yes, your majesty?"

Odin stared across the courtyard. "I want you to pretend you're me. Where would you put your biggest enemy on display for your people?"

She inclined her head. "I am but a slave. I can have no opinion on the matter."

His eye glanced over his shoulder with a satisfied gleam. "You are either the best slave I've ever encountered or a fantastic liar."

Another curtsy. "My needs are the needs of the palace and those within its great halls. I have no reason to lie about my description."

Chuckling, he waved her away.

Aura calmly turned around. Walked away at a normal pace. Fought the rigidness seeping into her limbs. She wanted nothing more than to return to Queen Frigga. Wanted nothing more than to feel safe. But she had been given a task before Odin interrupted her. It would be suspicious if she didn't fulfill it. So, she continued toward the laundering chambers. Startled by everyone who greeted her.

Flush crept into her cheeks after she had been scared a sixth time. She hated being jumpy, but she couldn't help it. Odin was turning one of the most beautiful courtyards into a place of death. She knew who he wanted to kill there first.

Loki. Then Frigga. Then anyone else involved with his release.

Did the Allfather know that included his own son? Did he know it included his most trusted Gatekeeper?

Did he care?

She descended shallow steps. Offering a smile at a group of handmaidens approaching with fresh bed linens. Eyes closing with her greeting so they couldn't see the fear she knew swirled within them.

Odin had become as obsessive as his story of Bor. She didn't think he would stop at Thor or Heimdall this time. His sole eye held something she couldn't quite put her finger on. Something more than determination. Something wild. Something not even Queen Frigga could control if he released whatever lay dormant inside him.

Was it fear?

Could he be afraid of Loki?

Her head slightly tilted. If Odin was that scared of Loki, it could explain his desperateness to kill him. To put him on display. Of course, he wanted to make an example out of Loki. He wanted to show Asgard that he could conquer any fear.

She rubbed her arms. Where was Loki? She hadn't seen him since he fell asleep with her on the floor. That was a few days ago. He wouldn't leave without a good reason. What if the reason was he had been captured again? What if Odin already had him locked away, and he was just biding time until the renovations were complete?

But then why spy on Queen Frigga? Her heart dropped. To see if she needed to be executed alongside her son. She couldn't tell Odin the truth. Yet, she hated lying. Absolutely hated it. It went against her nature. What did she do?

"Good morrow, Sigyn."

Aura blinked, looking around. Had she made it to the laundering chambers already?

The delightful elderly man at the counter frowned. "Is everything alright?"

She shook her head. Trying to clear away her despairing thoughts. Presented a small smile. "Yes, Calder, thank you. I think I'm still waking up."

He laughed. "That's what the previous bunch said. You girls been having too much fun at night?"

"Seeing how Sjofn enjoys reading our love fortunes every night, I think so."

"Oh? And is there a match for you, young lady?"

Her grin grew a little sheepish. "Maybe."

More joyous laughter. "Well I hope they're as beautiful and kind as you are. You deserve nothing less." He swiveled on his stool, a hand to his mouth. Calling to the fellow servants working on washing, drying, and mending clothes. "We need Frigga's order!"

Aura inclined her head. "Thank you."

Calder faced her once more. Sighed. "I hope you find your soulmate soon. It would be a shame for anyone to turn into a bag of bones like me, without anyone to care for them."

Reaching across the counter, she took his hand worn with a lifetime of service and gave it a gentle squeeze. Although, she couldn't hide the playfulness in her voice. They had been through this routine before; she knew what was coming. "So long as you're alive, you can still find love. Don't give up on yourself."

He patted the back of her hand. "You're very sweet, Sigyn, but nobody wants an old fool."

"Fool, indeed." An older woman emerged from the rear chambers, her attire the same simple dress of all female servants. Ragna carried out a gown and presented it for the maiden's inspection. "The ladies have done a wonderful job with this one. The queen will look stunning. As always."

Calder rested a chin in his hand. His eyes on the ceiling, in the direction of the older maiden. "If only I could look stunning again. Maybe then someone would love me."

Ragna turned toward him, her eyebrows lifted. "We've been together since we were adolescents, and suddenly, you claim no one loves you?"

Another dramatic sigh. "I'm just not fit for love."

Aura giggled at the interaction. One she had witnessed many times.

Ragna grabbed her beloved by the tunic collar and dragged him back into the rear chambers. "If you need a reminder of how much you're loved, I'll give one to you."

Calder winked before he disappeared.

Shaking her head, she left the laundering chambers with a grin. She loved Calder and Ragna. Underneath their tough exteriors, they cared so deeply for one another. They shared a bond that time itself couldn't break. She hoped she could experience their happiness when it came to a relationship.

Assuming she could have a relationship. Well, with the one she wanted.

Anxiety crawled back into her core. Her pace through the corridors quickened, and she scolded herself to walk normally. She inhaled a deep breath. Eyes focused on the future destination she couldn't see, yet.

She desired sprinting for the queen's personal chambers. Wanted to get there as soon as possible. What if she ran into Odin again? She couldn't handle another conversation with him.

"Sigyn!"

Her head swiveled, panic settling in. She brightened when she saw the thunder god trotting toward her. Curtsied. "Good morrow."

Thor glanced around. Guided her off to the side. He handed her a white orchid. "This is for you."

Aura accepted it with an expression of compassion. "Thor, you don't have to bring me these every day. I've told you that it wasn't your fault."

"Aye, but I am partly responsible. If I had not spooked you..." He rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Mjolnir is heavy."

She placed a hand on his arm. "I know. But everything will be okay. I promise."

He checked their surroundings once more. "That I do not know. Father has been extra vigilant. I have heard Loki escaped from prison. Is this true?"

"Yes."

"Have you seen him?"

"Once. But not in the last few days. Honestly, I'm worried about him. Has Odin said anything to you?"

Thor shook his head. "Only that I shall bring Loki to him if I encounter him. Which I will not do. You should have seen the last time they clashed." His bright blue eyes shifted in her direction. "Actually, it is a good thing you did not."

Looking down, she quieted. "Do you think, do you think honestly think Odin is powerful enough to kill Loki?"

He exhaled hard through his nose. "Only Father knows the true power of Gungnir."

Her gaze lifted. "How powerful is he without his spear?"

One of his shoulders shrugged. "He is a mighty warrior, hardened by years of war." Then his eyes widened, and he placed his large hands on her slender shoulders. "Promise me you will not do anything rash. I will not stand to see you hurt again."

Aura nodded, adverting her vision. "It's hard for me, sometimes. Not being able to do anything. I feel so useless. Queen Frigga is helping me learn more about my fire, but I feel as though I know nothing. How am I supposed to help Loki when he needs me most?"

"You forget I have witnessed your abilities on Midgard. When the time comes, you will not fail him."

"I-I hope you're right. Can you...can you walk with me? I need to take this gown to Queen Frigga, and I don't feel comfortable being alone right now."

"Aye." He offered his elbow. "I will make sure you are not bothered."

"Thank you." She continued on her journey in silence. Extremely appreciative of the thunder god's presence. No one questioned them walking together, either. Which she didn't mind this time.

She honestly felt guilty that he felt so guilty for what happened. She never once blamed him, and she didn't know how to convince him it wasn't his fault. She had a whole vase filled with the flowers he brought her as a continued apology. Any time he had seen her traversing through the palace, he somehow had one at the ready.

Her vision lifted. "How is Jane doing?"

Thor smiled. "Heimdall says she flourishes with each passing day. She is working on breakthroughs in her research. I miss her. But with the assignments Father gives me, I have no time to visit her."

"You'll get to be with her soon. I'm sure of it."

"That makes one of us." He stopped in front of a pair of gilded double doors. Knocked.

Moments later, Frigga answered. "Good morrow, my dears. Please, please enter." She stepped aside. Her cheeriness fading as her discernment kicked in. She locked the doors behind them. "What is it?"

Aura detached herself from Thor. Gently draped the newly-made gown on the divan. Stared at the glimmering threads. She hugged herself. "Odin spoke with me."

Thor frowned.

The queen exchanged glances with her eldest son. Headed for the maiden, checking her over. "Are you alright? Did he harm you?"

"No." Her head shook. "No, he didn't lay a hand me. He found me in the hall while I was heading to pick up your order. He took me to a balcony overlooking the main courtyard used for ceremonies and celebrations. And he told me this awful story."

She smoothed loose strands of the younger's hair behind her faintly pointed ears. "Which tale did he spin?"

"He told me Bor used it as a public execution grounds. Is that true?"

Her lips thinned. "Yes, unfortunately."

Thor's brows furrowed. "He never told me such a thing."

Aura looked up. Eyes glistening with sorrow. "Did Bor really let Queen Bestla starve to death, tied to a stake?"

Frigga straightened. Addressed both of the others. "It's best not to dwell on such matters. Bor was horrid, and Odin is just like him. Do you know why he took you to the courtyard?"

"I gathered he wants to rebuild the killing site. He talked a lot about betrayal. Queen Frigga, I think he's after you. He's paranoid you're conspiring against him. He thinks you freed Loki. I'm fairly certain the main purpose of the execution grounds will be for Loki. Odin wants me to spy on you. He told me if I told anyone, I'd be the first to test the new renovations."

Thor strode forward. "I will not let any of that happen. You have my word."

The queen remained silent. Ire swirling in her eyes. She stared beyond the double doors. "And to think, he fawned all over me last night. The nerve of that cretin."

"Mother, have you seen Loki?"

She turned back toward them. "Yes, I've been checking in on him. He's been asleep the past couple of days."

Aura's brows knitted. "He never sleeps that long. Is he okay?"

Frigga placed a hand on the side of the half elf's face. "He's fine, my dear. We know he didn't rest well in the cell. I'm certain settling back into his magic has taken its toll on him, as well."

"But does that mean he's okay?"

The witch laughed. "You don't trust me? His own mother? My spells protects him. Odin cannot get to him without my knowledge." Her other hand found Thor's face. "Everything will be alright. Both of you must learn to relax."

The thunder god's jaw set. He broke free and paced to the balcony. "How am I supposed to relax when I know of Father's horrendous plan? I should be doing something about it. Should be stopping it."

"No. You will do nothing of the sort. Our slightest intervention only puts Aura at risk. As much as it pains you, you'll have to stand aside."

Aura rubbed her eyes. "I think, I think Odin knows who I am. He asked me suspicious questions. He called me a really good liar. I don't want to be a good liar. I want to be truthful. I want to be me. I don't like tricking people."

Frigga inhaled a deep breath. "I know things are hard right now. For all of us." Her hands folded neatly in front of her. "But if I didn't think either of you were strong enough, I wouldn't ask of you the things I do. You must be brave. Must be patient."

Thor searched his mother, dropped his gaze, then faced outside.

Tears welled in the servant's eyes. "I'm so afraid. I'm afraid I'll slip up or...or forget which version I'm supposed to be. What if I never get to be myself again? I like Sigyn, but I like myself, too. I'm not like you or Loki. I'm not good at hiding myself."

The goddess chuckled. "In our defenses, we have years of training in the masquerading arts. However, you've had your own practice. Before you were banished, how long did you pretend you had nothing to do with Loki? On Midgard, how long did you have to hide your alien nature?"

"Too long. I hated every second of it. It felt so wrong."

"You know, I've had a very similar conversation with someone else."

Aura looked toward Thor, who shrugged. "Who?"

"Who do you think?"

"Loki?"

Frigga nodded. "Don't sound so surprised. When he first learned his shapeshifting abilities, he hated it."

Thor's nose scrunched. "I have multiple memories of stab wounds from animals that say otherwise."

"He loved turning into various creatures, yes, but he didn't like assuming alternate humanoid forms. He was even worse at acting."

Aura's head tilted. "But he's so good at it now."

"Much like you, he was forced into situations where his survival depended on it." Frigga softened, voice distancing. "Terribly, it became part of his everyday life." She snapped herself back to the present. Authority entering her voice. "I will tell the both of you the same thing I told him: we do what we must to survive. The universe can be cruel and unforgiving. To combat that, we must harden ourselves and do things we wouldn't normally do."

Asgard's favored prince's hand clenched. "It is unfair, but I do understand."

The servant hesitated. "As do I. Though, I wish it weren't so."

A rapping knock echoed.

Frigga's lips thinned. "One moment." Smoothing her dress, she regally swept across the floor and opened the door. Relaxed. "Loki."

"I'm not interrupting you, am I?"

"No, please come in." Her perceptive nature scrutinizing him.

Loki nodded and entered. Clad in a simple green tunic, black trousers, and bare feet. His hair a tousled mess. He stiffened at the current company. Irony had a way of constantly presenting itself, didn't it?

Thor broadly grinned. Made it one step before he hesitated. The smile faded, and he remained at the balcony.

Aura jogged up to the latest arrival. Wrapping her arms around his neck and back, she held him close. "I'm glad to see you well. I've been so worried."

The mischief god looked around at those present. The tension in his body not easing. These were the same beings who betrayed him in what seemed like only moments ago. He didn't suddenly distrust them, but he was uneasy. Given he hadn't quite figured out what he experienced. "I'm fine."

Frigga's hands found her hips. Demeanor matching his aloof attitude. "I'm surprised, if you're trapsing about the palace as yourself."

He heavily sighed. "The only ones who can see me stand in this room. I'm hidden even from Heimdall." He glanced at Aura's tightening grip and buried head in his chest. "What's going on?"

"Odin cornered her this morning."

Aura choked up. "He wants to kill you."

One of Loki's brows lifted. Though he couldn't deny the darkness growing within him. "That's not exactly new."

She refused letting him go. "You don't understand. He told me about the courtyard that used to be a public execution place. He wants to remodel it, so he can make an example out of your death." She paused. Lifted her head. "Are you okay?"

"Yes. He can say whatever he wants, but he's not making an example out of me."

"No. You've been shaking."

An emerald eye twitched. "I didn't realize I was."

Aura regarded a worried Thor. Faced Loki once more. Lowered her voice. "Are you sure you're okay?"

The trickster swallowed at her soul-searching eyes. Granted, he was still disturbed by that vision...reality...whatever he wanted to call it, but he should've known she'd sense something was off with him. She never failed. Hopefully, she couldn't perceive his acceptance of the entity he once cast aside.

Frigga approached her eldest son. "Can you please give us just a moment?"

Thor blinked a few times, somewhat faltering. "Of course, Mother."

Loki watched his brother leave through the corners of his eyes. Returned his attention back to Aura when he was satisfied the door closed. If he didn't put her mind at ease, she'd continue being wary of him. He kissed her forehead. "I promise I'm fine. It's been some time since I've enjoyed a decent meal. I'm probably shaking from lack of nutrients."

She didn't stop searching him.

He rubbed her cheek with a thumb. "I'm more concerned about you."

"I-I'm okay. Odin makes me nervous, and he told me awful things, but I'm okay, too."

Frigga smiled at their interaction. Moved to her desk. Busied herself with various texts and scrolls, so she wouldn't impede their conversation.

Aura frowned. Rested her head on him once more. "He wants me to be a spy. I don't know how to be a spy. I don't look like a spy. Why would he ask me to be one?"

Loki's brows rose in thought. "Because he knows you're an honest person. He feels like he can trust you to tell him the truth."

She released her handfuls of tunic. Backed away and played with her hair. Not meeting his gaze. "All I did this morning was lie to him. All I've ever done is lie to him. I hate being dishonest."

He subtly looked away.

"Odin said he'd find me when he thought he gave me enough time to get the information he wants. When do you think that'll be? Am I supposed to constantly be afraid of him approaching? What do I tell him when he does come to me?"

"In all reality, he'll most likely forget what he told you by the end of day. He'll most likely never approach you again."

"You don't understand. He's, he's changed. He's willing to do whatever he needs to in order to find you. He will come for me again. I know he will."

He studied her. Studied her blatant fear. Fear he had just seen in that altered reality. Whatever it was. Fear she had turned on him. With a deep breath, he gathered her into his arms. Massaged the nape of her neck. "We'll figure out something for you to tell him. Something that isn't a lie. But won't give him any information, either. We should have a few days. If he's planning on renovating the courtyard, his focus will be strictly on that. You know he likes things to his exact specifications."

An uncharacteristic resolve filled her voice. "I won't let him take you. I don't care what I have to do. I'll burn the whole palace down if need be. I won't let him kill you."

His eyes fell onto her. What was the coincidence of her words? The coincidence of those present in the room when he entered? His chest expanded with a long inhale. He didn't believe in coincidences. Although, he would much rather have her burn down the palace than Thanos. His voice softened. "Thank you, love."

She trembled with restrained emotions. "I won't let him do it. I'll find a way to melt Gungnir. He's powerless without that spear. All I have to do is—"

"Aura." He lifted her chin. Wiped her sole tear away. "He can't kill me, let alone find me. Don't work yourself up over an event that won't happen."

"B-but what if it does?"

Loki offered a small smile. "I have a suggestion that may help ease your mind. If you'd like, we could have our dinner tonight?"

Frigga glanced up from the book she flipped through.

The half elf nodded. "Sure." She cleared her throat. "That sounds nice. So long as Queen Frigga approves."

The witch goddess acted like she just now noticed the conversation. "What do you need, my dear?"

"May I join Loki for dinner?"

"Of course. You needn't ask my permission for something such as that."

Loki's eyes narrowed slightly at his mother's mischievous gleam.

Aura nodded. "Thank you." She exhaled slowly as she turned back to her beloved. "May I request one thing of you first?"

He regarded her once more. "Anything."

"Can you speak with Thor?"

His face blanked. "Why? I have nothing to say to him."

She held his gaze. "Please? Odin's kept him occupied by quelling uprisings, but his heart hurts, too. He's more emotional than he cares admitting. He still blames himself for everything. I know it'd mean the Realms to him if you spoke with him. It'd mean the Realms to me."

"You're being serious, aren't you?"

Her brows knitted. "I don't understand why this would be a joke."

He rubbed an eye with the heel of his palm. "Do I have to?"

"I won't force you to do anything you don't want to do, but I really think you should. He has so much he wants to tell you. Moments ago, he saw you for the first time since the throne room incident. You have no idea what it's done to him. I know he's not your favorite person, but you're his favorite person."

Staring at her, he mused for a moment. "Fine. I'll speak with him. I'll even do it now, before I find something more important to do. But I'm only doing it because you're my favorite person, and you asked so nicely."

"Thank you." Standing on her tiptoes, she gently pecked his cheek. "Thank you."

Loki half-heartedly sighed to maintain his façade as he headed for the door. "Thor's lucky I love you." He placed a hand on the handle when a strong grip clamped down on his shoulder. Checking behind him, he met the gaze of his mother boring into him.

Frigga spoke so only the two of them could hear. "I don't care about what you're hiding from me, but you better not hide anything from Aura. Do you understand me? She trusts you completely, and I will not tolerate anyone crushing her soul. Not even you, mkay?"

His eyes flickered between the two maidens in the room. "Yes, Mother."

She patted his cheek a little harder than normal. "Good boy."

After a fidgety nod, he slipped out the door.