Pairings: Steve & Loki (explicit), Rogue & Gambit

Explicit Content: BDSM, Oral Sex

Warning: Spoilers for Disney's animated Beauty and the Beast (in case anyone doesn't know the story) and Final Jeopardy for July 8, 2019

Hel and Death sit on Hel's bed and watch the animated Beauty and the Beast while eating mint chocolate chip ice cream. The movie is one of several saved to her tablet, allowing her to watch it here on Helheim. The ice cream, also from Earth, is gone by the time the townspeople form a mob.

"Ugh. People like that suck," Death says as the crowd chants, "Kill the beast!"

"Completely." She frowns. "Poor Beast."

When the movie ends with Beauty and the no-longer beasty prince dancing, Death furrows her brow. "Is it weird that I think the prince was more handsome as a beast?"

"You're dating my brother Wade, so no." She immediately raises her arms in defense as Peeta Bear gets thrown at her. "I'm kidding! Kind of. But you're right. The beast was more handsome." She holds the teddy bear against her chest and pats its head while still keeping Palace the unicorn in her other hand. "Death didn't mean to hurt you, Peeta."

She plucks the bear from Hel. "Where did you say Wade won this for you?"

"I don't remember the name. There were rides and games and hot dogs that aren't actually made of dogs. It was near New York City on the coast. I remember that much."

"I'll have to get Wade to take me there." She looks at the bear as she says, "Thanks for this, Hel. Ever since hearing about sleepovers and slumber parties and seeing them when I had to take some soul or other, I've always wondered what it would be like to actually attend one."

"We should have done this a long time ago," Helena says. "If I had known about them…" She looks at Palace and misses Gwen. "My first sleepover, Gwen had us watch a scary movie. It was fun. I didn't think a scary movie would actually scare you though." She jostles Death with her foot.

Death smiles. "I understand there are different kinds of scary movies."

"Yeah. Guess we could try different kinds." She shuts off the movie. "Sorry about 'Boda and her never-ending questions."

"No worries. But how weird would it be if you dated one of my brothers while I dated yours?"

"Weird. And honestly, if I were to date anyone in your family, it'd be either you or Desire."

"Fair. At least you don't have a Titan trying to stalk you," Death says.

"True. Has it gotten worse?" Helena asks.

"He goes to worlds, destroys half the population, then waits for me to show up. Then he blames me, saying it's his way of worshipping me. Meanwhile, I keep telling him he's just giving me more work to do, but the asshole just won't listen." It's clear she's frustrated. "Sometimes I think it's another version of me he's trying to impress, but he insists it's me even when I tell him I want him to stop killing."

"Be careful. My Da is scared of him. Like, really scared. I've asked why, but he refuses to talk about it. And all Step Da would say was that the Mind Stone was involved and that Da has PTSD. I didn't even know that was a thing before."

"It is. It's…It can get bad. Really bad," Death hells her. "I hate those jobs."

"I'm so glad I don't have to get people. They just show up here. Well, in the Helheim area."

"I like the travel part. Helps me have empathy to see how people lived and died."

"Well, all my people are from Asgard or Vanaheim, so my travel would be pretty limited. Every once in a while someone from Earth shows up, but it's very rare nowadays," she explains. "How do you end up going to Thanos each time? Don't his victims usually have their own death god?"

"Usually. But I can feel it. I can feel all of them, even the ones that come here," she says. "And he makes sure I know it's him and not some natural disaster or something."

"That sucks."

"Tell me about it." She holds Peeta Bear against her chest. "If you weren't a death deity, what would you want to be?"

"Oh, wow. I've never really thought about it." Helena considers. "I think I'd want to be a Trickster like my Da. Deflate some egos. Have some fun." A new thought pops into her head. "Or maybe a musician. Not sure what instrument I'd play. Maybe drums so I could just bang out any frustrations. That'd be cool. What about you?"

"Guitar. Definitely guitar. We could start a band." She smiles. "Death Squared."

"Death Hel. Or HelDeath."

"And we'd play punk. Or like…" Death thinks about the various music types she knows. "…Easy Listening." She laughs. "We could do Neil Diamond covers."

"I have no idea who that is," Helena admits.

"Oh you poor, innocent child," she teases. She sings a bit of 'Sweet Caroline'. Then she also sings parts of 'Comin' to America' and the cringy 'Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon'.

"That is not a real song. Is it?"

"Oh it is."

"No Easy Listening," Helena decides. "Maybe some, like, David Bowie."

"We'd write our own songs," Death declares. "Cool songs."

She points out, "We'd probably need more than just drums and guitar though."

"Not much more. Not really. Drums, guitar, singer. We could take turns singin'."

"I'd have to learn to play the drums first,' Helena points out.

"Not necessarily." She leans closer. "I've heard some of those bands when I have to pick up souls in dive bars. I swear half don't actually know how to play."

"Alright. You've convinced me. Let's do it." She starts to drum on her stomach.

Death laughs. "That's a good instrument that is."

"Only the best for our band – HelDeath."

She makes horns with her white fingers and holds them up. "HelDeath! HelDeath for life!"

"HelDeath for life!" Helena thinks that might be the best slogan ever.

xxx

These are the rules of watching Jeopardy at Scott Lang's house. 1) You do NOT have to wait for the clue to be read in its entirety before saying the answer. 2) You DO have to answer in the form of a question.

It doesn't matter that Scott is the only one watching most of the time. Those are his rules, and he follows them.

An empty bag of microwave popcorn is on the coffee table. Alex Trebek has just given the clue for Final Jeopardy. The category – North American Cities. The clue – In 2017, this city celebrated its 375th birthday & the 50th anniversary of an event that made it an international tourist destination.

Scott has no idea what the answer is. He's trying to remember if he read or heard anything about a city's birthday lately. Before anything comes to mind, there is a loud knock on the door.

He isn't expecting a package or Luis. He talked to Eddie yesterday, so it's probably not him. There's only one way to find out who it is. On his way to the door, he closes his grey robe over the shorts and t-shirt he has on. When he opens the door, he isn't surprised. "Agent Woo," he greets. "Is it time for our monthly check-in already?"

"It is." FBI agent Jimmy Woo waits for Scott to step aside before leading his three agents inside.

"Guess you forgot to send me the schedule again." He closes the door. "I keep telling you I'd wear actual real clothes if you just let me know when you're coming."

"That's not part of the agreement," Jimmy reminds him. He sits at the dining table while the other agents search the house. "Have a seat, Scott."

"Do you want coffee or water or anything? I've got chocolate milk."

He looks up. "Chocolate milk?" He sounds tempted.

"Yep."

"I…" He considers what the other agents would think. "No. I'm good. Thanks." He gives a small smile.

"Okay. Let me just turn off the tv." He heads back to the living room. His timing couldn't be better. He only has to wait five seconds to hear the answer – What is Montreal? "Huh. I wouldn't have guessed that." He turns off the tv and returns to Agent Woo. He sits down, resting his hand against the side of his head. "Hit me."

Jimmy motions to one of his agents to check the ankle monitor. He waits for the confirmation that it hasn't been tampered with before proceeding. "Alright, have you had any contact with Steve Rogers?"

"Not since last month."

"What about Clint Barton?"

"Nope. Not Natasha Romanoff, Sam Wilson, Wanda Maximoff, or Pietro Maximoff."

Jimmy looks at him. "I can't help but notice you didn't include Hank and Hope Pym in that list."

"Didn't think I had to. I don't know why you ask," Scott says. "They basically hate me."

"I don't think anyone could hate you, Scott."

"You've obviously never met the Pyms," is his reply. "They know how to hold grudges. Believe me."

"Checking is my job."

"And you do it really well. Could you maybe ask your team to put things back after they've searched through everything?"

Jimmy looks concerned. "Have they not been doing that?"

"Some of them."

"I'm real sorry. They should know better. But hey, this is the last time until that tracker comes off." Then he adds, "Assuming you don't do anything stupid."

"I've got too much to lose." Scott leans forward and promises, "I'm not going to do anything stupid."

xxx

It's the first time Loki, Vali, and Steve travel Yggdrasil as a family. It's the first time Vali and Steve are using it to go off Earth. As they walk the path to Asgard, Loki points out the markers. Vali and Steve pay close attention.

"I'll let you two navigate on the way back," Loki tells them. "It'll be a good test."

"Is that what Helena did?" Vali asks.

"It is. Though she had a lot more questions than you lot."

Steve replies, "We're studious. Helena is more inquisitive."

"Like Poppa," Vali notes.

"Oh, you're like your Poppa, too. You may not have his flair for the dramatic, but you're just as intelligent. Also, your innocent face is much more convincing."

"We're here," Loki announces. "Where should we appear? Perhaps there's a council meeting we can make a grand entrance at."

Steve taps Vali's shoulder. "Dramatic."

He smiles at that. "After all those years with the Grandmaster, Poppa actually seems kind of tame."

Loki gives Steve a smug look. "Hear that?"

"From what Thor told me, you fit right in," Steve teases.

"Who would know better, hm? Vali or Thor who spent most of his time there imprisoned?"

"Point taken." He gestures at the opening. "Pick a place."

"Vali?"

"How about Grandmother's garden? It's nice there." He likes the sound of nature and the way the tree limbs sway in the breeze.

"Go ahead," Loki prompts. "Take us there."

Vali looks at his father and sees a quiet confidence in them. "Okay." He concentrates on the garden and sees it appear in front of him. "There's grandmother." She's kneeling in the grass pulling up weeds.

The trio steps out of Yggdrasil. Loki speaks first. "Mother, what are you doing?"

She looks up and smiles. "Hello. Are you early, or did I lose track of time?"

"You lost track of time." He greets her with a kiss to each cheek. "Should you be weeding?"

"If I don't, they'll take over the entire area." She smiles at Vali. "Are you excited about visiting the school?"

He nods. "Yes, ma'am."

"Such a polite boy." She looks up Loki. "Of course you used to be polite, too, particularly when you wanted something."

"I'm still polite," Loki assures her. "When it suits me."

Steve goes in for a hug. "Hello, Mom." He's only recently started calling her that, much to her delight.

She gives him a warm hug. "Hello, Himmel. How was the trip?"

"Good. We came by Yggdrasil."

Her eyes widen. "You did? Congratulations. How wonderful." She looks between Steve and Vali, a hint of concern in her eyes. "Just don't get lost in there."

"We won't. Loki showed us the markings. And we have plenty of nuts for the squirrel."

"Ratatosk is no mere squirrel," she warns.

Loki assures her, "I did tell them."

Steve scratches his beard. "We should probably get going." To Frigga, he says, "We'll be back before heading home."

"I'll try to have my weeding done by then so your husband doesn't get after me."

"Good plan."

The trio leave her, heading for the school. It isn't far. Loki and Vali have been this way before. Both used to walk it with their brothers, but their experiences were very different.

"I'm still surprised you had actual school," Steve says. "I thought it was all private tutors."

"Not all," Loki tells him. "We learned the basics here. The tutors were to help with any subjects we were failing in addition to things like cultural awareness, negotiation tactics, etiquette."

"We had just started those bits," Vali remembers. "Uncle Balder was teaching us etiquette mostly, and we were supposed to have a grown-up lunch on Vanir to show what we had learned." It's coming back to him. "We were looking forward to hearing Grand Uncle Freyr's stories. Narfi was going to convince everyone to let us go on a hunt with them."

Steve asks, "Was that the negotiation part?"

"We wanted to see if what Uncle Balder taught us would really work. But the lunch wasn't for a long time. It felt then like it wasn't going to be for a long time," he corrects. "And then it never came." He stops walking, causing Steve and Loki to stop, too. He looks from one to the other. "Who will teach me that now?"

"I will," Loki assures him. "Or your grandmother."

"And if I go to school on Earth?"

"The answer remains the same."

The boy gives a single nod and continues walking.

xxx

Snotra, Goddess of Virtue and Knowledge, meets Vali, Loki, and Steve at the school. It is her domain even more than the royal library is. She greets them with a small bow. It's unnerving how unchanged Prince Vali is. Perhaps unchanged is the wrong word. He seems changed just not aged. "Welcome back, Prince Vali. Prince Loki."

"You remember my husband, Steve," Loki replies.

"Of course. Welcome, Prince Steve."

"It's just Steve," he replies. "It's nice to see you again. I'm glad you were able to get the school going again after the invasion."

"As am I." She takes them inside. "I am relieved that Vali will be attending school here. Sigyn had indicated you were going to educate him on Midgard."

"That's still a possibility," Loki tells her. "We are weighing our options at the moment." He exchanges a glance with his son. "Which is why we are grateful for the opportunity to visit the school."

"Oh." She does not like the sound of this. "Well Midgard cannot teach Asgardian history and culture."

He points out, "Nor can you teach the culture of Jotun or of the Midgardian Otherworld."

"We touch on Jotun," she replies. "We cover the Frost Giant War and the different tribes of their land."

"That's not exactly culture is it."

"More than what they'd cover on Midgard I imagine."

Steve clears his throat. "That's true. And on Earth, Otherworld would be covered as folklore or literature. On the other hand, Vali would get more practice with his magic there than here from what I've heard. Still, there's more to school than just its curriculum."

"Indeed," she replies. "Though here Vali would have many of the same teachers he had before."

The boy isn't sure that's a good thing. They'll remember what happened. They may judge him for it. Of course, he could use that to his advantage.

Snotra continues, "Some of his new classmates will be the children of some of his old friends. Won't that be fun?"

It doesn't sound fun.

"Do you have art classes?" Steve asks.

"Art classes?" She says the words as though it's the first time she's ever put them together. "No. We concentrate on subjects our students will actually use - history, runes, strategy, combat, geography, celestial cartography."

"There's art in design," he reminds her. "Someone designs your buildings, your clothes, your weapons."

"Not nobles."

He does not like that answer, but he decides not to say anything that might sway Vali's decision. "I see. Do you only teach nobles here?"

"We do," she says with pride.

"And the other kids?"

"Are apprenticed. Do you no longer have that on Midgard?"

"Not like we used to," he replies.

"May I sit in on a class?" Vali asks.

"Certainly. We'll take you to your last instructor." She looks at the two men. "It would be best if you did not join him."

Steve asks, "Could I get a tour of the building instead?"

"Of course."

They take Vali to a classroom where everyone stares at him, including the instructor. Vali takes a seat at the back as the others continue without him.

During the tour, Steve asks how students are disciplined.

"It depends on the infraction," Snotra says. "For small things, we inform the parents. Next we might assign extra homework. If it is something more egregious, we'll either take away training time or have them do something more physical."

"More physical?"

Loki explains, "You either spar with someone much older and better than you, ensuring you lose, or you might have to clean out the stables. Odin loved to make me do that one. Or they could chain you up for a bit after school."

"Chain you up?"

"To the statue out front," Snotra explains. "This is especially effective if it's raining or if the other children decide to throw things."

Steve has a look of confused horror. "Throw things?"

"It builds toughness."

He does not look convinced. He remembers the corporal punishment from when he was a kid. The paddle was something you never wanted to get. They never did it in front of class. They'd take the student out to the principal or vice principal's office. The kid would come back with red eyes looking either defeated or defiant. "Is that something we can opt out of?"

"No. It's how we do things here."

Steve silently tells Loki that's not acceptable.

"Certainly something to consider," Loki says.

They finish the tour then discuss what would need to happen for Vali to rejoin the school. There would be a test to see if he should remain in his original class or move a year forward or back. Steve asks about extracurricular activities. Other than extra training, there aren't any.

On the way back to the palace, Vali is quiet.

"Everything okay, Lee?"

"Everything is the same but also different."

Loki thinks he understands. "You don't fit in anymore."

Vali shakes his head.

"Perhaps you need to break it in again, like leather you haven't worn in a long time."

Steve offers a counterpoint. "Or maybe this isn't the school for you. You need a place where you can express yourself and test your abilities."

"One that doesn't punish children by chaining them to statues?" Loki asks.

"That would be an improvement. Do we know how the Xavier School punishes their students?"

"Something called detention and, after a set number of infractions, expulsion."

"I'd prefer that." He looks at Vali. "But it's not my decision."

"You think I'd be better off at the Xavier School," Vali states. "If I don't fit there either, can I stop?"

"You can," his father assures him. "I'll bust you out myself if it comes to it."

Steve says, "I don't think it'll come to that."

"Okay. Then I want to go to the Xavier School," Vali decides. It feels like the right decision. At least for now.

xxx

Remy LeBeau and Marlene Dietrich arrive at the Xavier Mansion in his 2009 Mazda RX-8. It was a long drive from New Orleans, much of which the cat was stuck in her carrier. He paid for that every night and has the scratched-up hands to prove it. But he wasn't going to leave her behind even if she would have preferred that.

When he pulls up to the building, Logan walks down the steps. No one else is there.

"Is that a cat?"

"It is," Remy replies.

Logan's reaction is limited to an eyebrow raise and a slight head tilt. "Garage is around back." He points out the road. "You can park there." He sticks his hands in the pockets of his jeans and walks off.

"Does Rogue know I'm here?" When no answer comes, not that he expected any, Remy raises the window up and follows the road to the garage.

On the outside, it looks like a single-story parking garage. Inside, there is a ramp down to more spaces. He passes cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and even a moped. There is a space for bicycles, too. Remy finds an open space to park. He grabs the pet carrier that holds Marlene before retrieving his bag from the trunk.

Logan meets him just outside the garage. "Gotta admit, I'm surprised you actually showed up."

"Ain't got nowhere better to be."

He starts walking to the school. "Just so we're clear, you hurt Rogue –"

"You slice me up like andouille sausage," Remy finishes for him. "We already been over this. I ain't lookin' to hurt her."

"You never are."

"You ain't exactly a saint yourself, mon ami."

"We ain't friends," Logan tells him.

Remy is fine with that. He doesn't have friends. He has acquaintances, colleagues, lovers, and now hopefully a girlfriend. "Just tell me where I'm sleeping."

"As far from Rogue as possible."

"You her daddy now? Or you jealous?"

Logan says nothing. He doesn't even look back.

Remy follows him inside the mansion to the long flight of stairs. When they are almost at the top, a gorgeous woman starts to head down.

"Someone new?" she asks.

Logan introduces them. "This is Gambit. Gambit, this is Storm."

"Gambit. Of course. You've been the topic of lots of conversations lately."

"I can well imagine. Rogue has told me a little about you. It's a pleasure to meet you in the flesh," he says with a small bow.

"Nice to meet you," she replies. "What's in the carrier?"

He lifts it up so she can see the tuxedo cat through the wire door. "This is Marlene Dietrich."

The name makes Logan look at the cat.

"Adorable," Storm replies. "You'll have to keep her in your room when the students come back in the fall. Some may be allergic."

"No problem." He has no idea if that's going to be a problem. Marlene is used to roaming free. Well, he's got a few months to figure something out. As she takes a couple of steps down the stairs to pass them, he asks, "You wouldn't happen to know where Rogue is."

"I believe she and some of the others went into town to see a movie."

"Thank you." He continues following Logan. "See how easy that was?" He isn't surprised when Logan doesn't respond.

The room is the color of eggshell. There's a bed, a nightstand, and a dresser. A window lets in some light. There's room for a litter box in the corner and maybe a cat tower. Remy sets the carrier on the bed and his bag on the ground before going to look at the closet. He pulls open the two doors and finds it empty except for some hangars. There's one long rod and a long shelf. It'll do.

"Don't destroy anything," Logan says before leaving.

"I ain't the one with the claws." He looks at his cat. "No offense." He lets her out of the carrier before unpacking. It takes all of 5 minutes. "I'll get you a tower tomorrow," he promises. For now she'll have to be content with the catnip mouse he throws towards her. "I gotta get your litter box out of the car." He bought it on the road along with the leash he used to let her walk around after the long car rides. "I'll be right back. Don't piss on anything." He sneaks out of the room, quickly closing the door.

He makes it to the car without seeing anyone. On his way back, just as he's about to go up the stairs, he's stopped by a voice.

"You must be Rogue's friend."

He turns and sees a blue woman with bright red hair and even brighter yellow eyes. "I am. Remy LeBeau. You can call me Gambit."

"Gambit. There's an interesting name. I'm Mystique."

"You certainly are."

She smiles. "I hope that little box isn't for you."

"My cat. She's upstairs in my room right now."

"A cat. Well that is promising,"

"How so?" he asks.

"It means you don't mind dangerous, independent creatures." She walks closer. "Just remember some of us are more dangerous than others." Her fingers brush across his upper arm as she passes him. "Oh, do me a favor and don't fall in love with Jean Grey. I'd be so disappointed if you were like every other man in this place." She continues walking toward the kitchen.

He watches her for a moment before continuing on. His mind recalls what he can about Jean Grey as he climbs the stairs. By the time he reaches the top, he decides there won't be any danger of him falling for her. She seemed…off somehow. It wasn't anything he could put his finger on. Maybe he'll understand or change his mind the more he gets to know her.

He sets up the litter box then stretches out on the bed. It's comfortable.

A knock on the door wakes him from a nap he didn't realize he was taking. Marlene is curled against his side. "Sorry, girl," he softly tells her as he gets up.

Rogue is on the other side of the door. She looks concerned, nervous. "Hey."

"Hey, yourself," he replies, one hand wrapped around the edge of the door.

"Sorry I wasn't here when you arrived. I thought you'd get here later."

"Don't worry about it. Logan met me."

"Good." Her eyes search his face. Things feel different, and she isn't sure why. Or maybe she is. "You okay?"

"I'm fine. You?"

"Worried about you mostly," she admits. "Did you really kill that guy?"

"Didn't have a choice. It was kill or be killed, chère."

Unnerved by his cavalier attitude, she looks down at her hands. "Oh. I guess I'm glad you won. Just wish we could'a gotten you outta there before it happened."

"Yeah." Her 'I guess' stings him enough to take an emotional step back. "Can't do nothin' about it now."

"Police won't be comin' after you?" She looks up at him then and is surprised at the coldness in his face.

"Naw. They got more important things to deal with."

"More important than murder?" she asks in surprise.

"Weren't murder," Remy snaps back. "It was a duel. Besides, he was an assassin. Far as the cops are concerned, I did them a favor."

Rogue can feel anger bubbling up. "Duels aren't a thing."

"They are in my world." An insistent meow comes from inside the room. He turns around. "It's fine."

"Is that Marlene Dietrich?" Rogue asks, curiosity replacing the frustration she had been feeling.

"It is. Want me to introduce you?"

"Of course."

Remy invites her in with a gesture and escorts her to the bed where the tuxedo cat stares at them, her tail the only indication she is unhappy. He scratches beneath her chin. "Marlene, this is Rogue, the woman I been telling you about."

Rogue sits on the bed. "He's been telling me a lot about you, too." She holds out her hand so the cat can sniff it before following Remy's example and scratching her under the chin. "You're as beautiful as your picture."

They pet the cat in silence for a bit. When Marlene decides she's had enough, she jumps off the bed before jumping onto the windowsill.

"How was the movie?"

She shrugs. "It was okay. How was your trip?"

"Long," he replies.

Rogue agrees, "It's a long drive." There's a pause. "You don't have to be okay, you know. You've been through a lot. You just left…everything."

"Not everything," he replies while looking at her. But then he follows that up with, "I brought my cat."

A scowl appears on her face. "Well at least you have one friend."

"One who'd abandon me as soon as she gets a better offer. Or finds out somethin' about me she don't like. Sounds about right."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means she's a cat," he replies.

"And the second part?"

He clenches his jaw. "You know how many men Logan has killed?"

"What? What does this have to do with Logan?" Rogue asks.

He grabs his deck of cards and starts shuffling them. "Just pointing out he's killed lots of folks. You're still friends with him."

"So?"

He looks directly at her. "I kill one man, out of self defense mind you, and now I ain't good enough. Right?" he asks with a defiant tone.

"Good enough for what?"

"For you."

"For me?" She stares at him as realization hits. "You are such an idiot."

"Yeah, well, if you don't want me here, just tell me. Marlene and I will find somewhere else to go."

She ignores that and instead demands, "Have you killed people before?"

"No. Not that I know of. Seen people die though," he tells her. "And I never claimed to be no hero," he reminds her.

"Are you mad at me because you had to kill 'im?"

"That had nothin' to do with you," he replies. "You're the one who's mad at me."

"Only 'cause you're bein' an ass," Rogue tells him, her voice loud.

"You're the one who said you guessed you were glad I won."

"What am I supposed to say? I'm glad you killed someone?"

Before Remy can answer, Marlene jumps on the bed again and climbs into his lap. His voice is softer when he replies, "You could say 'I'm glad you ain't dead'."

She frowns. "I'm glad you ain't dead. Wish you hadn't had to kill someone to get free though."

"Yeah, well, nothin' I can do about that now." He scratches the cat's head. "If you want me to leave…"

"I don't want you to leave," Rogue tells him. Then she admits, "I'm not good at this."

"If by 'this' you mean you and me, neither am I," he tells her.

She gives him a look of disbelief. "Really? 'Cause you sure act like you've had plenty of experience."

"I already know that kind of experience isn't gonna help me with you." He reminds her, "It didn't when we first met."

"That's 'cause you were layin' it on real thick. I knew you were trouble. If it wasn't for Helena, I wouldn't 've paid you no mind."

"Then I'm grateful to her. You're the first good thing…the first real…" He's not sure how to finish that. Or maybe he does know but can't bring himself to admit it yet. "Maybe we can start over?"

Rogue likes that idea. "Should I go out and knock on the door again?"

"I don't think we have to go that far." He takes a breath. "Hi, Rogue. It's good to see you."

"It's good to see you, too, Remy. You okay?"

"I am now."

She reaches out with her gloved hand and places it over his. "Good. I hope you stay that way."

xxx

Steve pulls the covers down, getting the bed ready for them to sleep in. "You must be relieved that Vali finally made a decision about school."

From the bathroom, Loki replies, "I'm not sure relieved is the right word, but yes. And you must be relieved he didn't choose Asgard." He walks out wearing forest green silk pajama bottoms.

"If and when we have kids, they are not going to that school unless things change." He turns to find Loki only a step away."

"If and when?"

"Nothing in life is certain." He takes his husband's hand. "But you know I'd love to have children with you. Unless you already have enough."

"I don't have yours," Loki replies. "Not yet."

"Maybe we should practice."

He places a palm over Steve's heart. "Is this you asking me to take a female form?"

Tilting his head, Steve answers, "It doesn't have to be exact. We could both… Or not… Or I…"

Loki narrows his eyes. "You know I don't like it when you're indecisive. If you want me in the mood, I need my captain. Otherwise we might as well just go to sleep."

"Right. Right." He clears his throat. His eyes travel over Loki's body as he decides what they should do. "Make us both female."

"Both?"

"Did I stutter?"

Loki grins. "You did not." Magic travels over them, giving them both breasts and vaginas. Their clothes remain the same. Loki remains topless in her green silk bottoms that sit on her hips. Steve remains in a white a-shirt and blue boxers. "Is this to your liking, Captain?"

Her eyes once more travel over Loki's body, pausing at the bare breasts before continuing to her throat and finally those green eyes that sparkle with anticipation. "It is," she replies. "How are your arms?"

"Fine. Why do you ask?"

"We're going to need a hook on the ceiling. One that can hold your weight and possibly mine."

Loki sucks in some air. "Of course, Darling. Do we need the swing as well?"

"No." She gets the rope from under the bed. "Well, how are your wrists?"

She licks her lips. "Ready for whatever you wish to do to them."

"Excellent. Hold them out in front of you," she orders.

Loki tilts her head. "And if I don't?"

"You won't get the pain I know you crave." She holds the rope taught between her hands. "If you deny me, you deny yourself."

"A compelling argument," she replies as she offers her wrists to her.

Steve wraps the rope around each one before binding them together.

"You could go tighter," Loki says.

"I could, but I don't want your circulation completely cut off when you're hanging. Also, don't question me again."

"Not even your choice of clothes?" She gets a sharp smack on her thigh for that. The pain dulls to a warm tingle. "You could at least make some effort."

Steve picks her up so she's draped over her shoulder. She gives her lover's ass a hard slap. "Raise your arms." She then lifts her so a few coils of the rope get caught on the hook. "There you go." She steps back.

Swaying slightly, Loki peers out from between her arms. The pressure on her wrists is already working its magic, rooting her to the present, to this room, to this woman in front of her. Her nipples have hardened just a bit. They move slightly with each breath. Her belly button is exposed, elongated vertically. The green silk pants need only one quick tug to drop to the ground. Each leg is loose around her. They are thin enough to show the outline of her body within them.

She reaches out and gently touches Loki's stomach. "You're beautiful."

"You want me."

"Always."

"You want to taste me."

Steve can feel wetness between her legs. "Yes. But not yet." Her hands trace each of Loki's ribs, moving up until she fills her palms with Loki's breasts. Her thumbs graze gently over the dark nipples, hardening them even more. She silently notes the change in her lover's breath. She'd love nothing more than to tease each breast with her tongue, but it's still not time to taste. Her hands move higher. One wraps around the long throat. The other opens her mouth, filling it with two of her fingers. "Do you wish I had a cock to fill you with?"

She shakes her head ever so slightly. Her green eyes are bright, hungry. When her mouth is free, she replies, "Your fingers can fill me just as well."

"And my tongue?"

"Would be most welcome," Loki replies. "Wherever you wish to put it."

"You need something more first." She takes a sleep mask and puts it on Loki. "No peeking. Not even with a clone."

"Yes, Captain." She is now fully aware of her body. Every breeze. Every place the rope digs into her skin. Every movement of the silk against her legs. She swears she can feel Steve's warmth walking behind her. Her hair is moved to her left side. Then it comes, a sweet sharp pain across her back. She recognizes it instantly – riding crop. "My mistress, you're too good to me."

"You deserve it. You deserve all my attention," Steve assures her before using the riding crops again.

A half dozen more hits has Loki in rapture. "I love you," she moans.

"I love you back," Steve whispers. She walks around to her lover's front once more. A quick yank gets the silk pants off and pooling onto the floor. Using the end of the riding crop, she paints invisible lines over Loki's body, highlighting her breasts, her chin, her hips. It comes back slick when she moves it between Loki's legs. She drops it then pulls Loki's body toward her, her tongue finally pressing against the hard nipple.

"Steve," she sighs as her body begs for more.

She pulls Loki with her as she steps back, guiding the dangling legs over her shoulders. Finally the taste she really wanted. Her fingers pull Loki's labia apart, allowing her to place her mouth on the wetness within. Her tongue runs up, tasting the saltiness of her lover's desire.

Loki is almost horizontal. Her head tilts back as her body reacts to Steve's attentions. "Fuck. Yes." Her heels dig into Steve's back so she can widen her legs. "More."

Steve slides a finger into her as his mouth concentrates on her clit. Both work to tease and titillate, to excite, to frustrate. To experience the slick desire they've created.

Loki's body begins to shake as pleasure radiates through her. Then it comes like a wave bursting through, causing those pulsing tremors that make her cry out.

She slows down, helping Loki through it before stopping completely. The next movements are gentle despite her own need screaming at her through every nerve. She first lowers Loki off her shoulders before unhooking her from the ceiling. Next the rope and eye mask come off.

Loki smiles as Steve massages her wrists. "You always take such good care of me."

"Tit for tat, Kitten. I expect to be taken care of in return." She kisses the inside of Loki's wrist.

"All you have to do is give me orders. And perhaps remove those clothes."

"On the bed. Face up."

Loki takes her time to seductively climb onto the bed and into position. "Legs open or closed," she asks as she demonstrates each.

"Closed." She pulls off her a-shirt. "Arms above your head." She pulls down her boxers.

"You do like me with my arms up." She moves her body seductively.

"I like you a lot of ways." She climbs onto the bed and settles above her. "Tell me to kiss you."

She's mesmerized by the blue of Steve's eyes and the long lashes that frame them. "Kiss me. Please."

"Please?" Steve kisses Loki before she can respond. She lowers down, feeling the coolness of her lover's body against her. Reaching up, she grabs Loki's hand and guides it down until she can feel those long fingers against her slit.

"Should I get a dildo for you? Or bring back my cock?"

"No. Then I couldn't do this." She slides two fingers into Loki. "Now do the same to me." Her eyes flutter closed when she feels those fingers she loves fill her. "Deeper."

Loki's palm meets Steve's pubic hair. "That's as far as I can go."

"It's good."

"It'd be better if I were on top."

Steve nods, and they change position.

Loki slides her fingers back into Steve before kissing her breasts and stomach.

"Go slow. I'll tell you when to pick up speed."

"Yes, Captain." She moves her fingers in and out in a slow rhythm, each time making sure her palm rubs against the sensitive clit. Her mouth continues to glide over Steve's breasts and neck.

Steve squeezes Loki's ass. Her fingers dip into her crack and circle the puckered hole there.

In return, Loki blows a stream of cold air over Steve's nipple.

"More," Steve chokes.

She does it again as she adds a third finger inside her. Her hand picks up some speed and just a bit of force. "I could fuck your ass, too, if you wish," she reminds her.

"Not now. After…After we…train. You know how…training…makes me…need you." She chokes out the last word as her body tingles with desire. "Faster. Clit."

"I've got you," Loki assures her. "Look at me."

Steve does and wonders again how this amazing creature became hers. "I love you."

"I love you back, Darling. I always will." She adds just a teeny bit of lightning palm.

Her back arches as pleasure surges through her. "Loki," she gasps.

Loki watches her. It's one of her favorite things. Only after Steve calms does she ask, "What do you need now, Darling?"

Steve pulls her close. "This. Just this." She breathes her in, kisses her, strokes her skin, reminding her just how loved she is.

A/N: Hello once again to all who are still reading. Thank you for your support. Also, thanks to The Jeopardy Fan website for providing the Final Jeopardy Clue & answer from July 8,, 2019.

For any comic readers, Helena wanting to play drums was an unintended nod to alternate reality Gwen Stacy (aka Ghost Spider). It felt appropriate though.

I hope you are all doing well. The world is a different flavor of crazy right now. Allow yourself to feel your feelings. Forgive yourself for the shortcomings you think you have. Use your voice in the way you need. I love you. Until next time…