Thor and Loki were called into the throne room by their father Odin. He looked at both sons with a gentle yet firm smile. Neither was ready to take the throne, however both needed to get into the affairs of other realms. Odin wanted Asgard to maintain peace and relations with the other realms, and that meant his heirs needed to interact with the other races.
"It is time you boys start getting yourselves in the affairs of the other realms. Maintaining relations with the other realms is what will keep us all in peace. Even though only one of you will ascend to the throne, it is best that both of you take a hand at diplomacy and relations at this point in your lives. Better to start you off now while you're young and your minds are open." Odin expressed to his sons.
"What did you have in mind for us to accomplish, father?" Loki asked.
Odin first looked at Thor. He was a bit concerned since, despite his hopes, Thor seemed a bit more brash and not as eloquent as he should be. Though he was as Asgardian as they came, Thor was a bit prideful and Odin hoped that he would become humble in his later years. Odin saw a lot of himself in Thor, both the good and the bad.
"You are both needed in different realms that are causing a bit of rocky relations. Thor, you will be headed to Svartalfheim, home of the dwarves. Lately they have been very lax on their shipments of equipment and even the equipment itself has been poor as of late. Take some warriors with you and Egil will accompany you as well in case you need to deal with matters by force. I'm sure their ruler will be willing to speak to his people if you come in and rumble with his warriors and blacksmiths."
Loki listened and it took self control not to chuckle and roll his eyes. Of course Thor would get an assignment that will likely involve getting into possible fights. Thor knew very little of diplomacy and would rather settle things with fights. Loki feared his brother would lead Asgard into many wars if he's chosen to be king. Being king was not about being strong, but having a sound mind, compassion for your people, and to think of what would be best for everyone. Loki knows Thor would settle this his way and that meant with brute force.
Thor grinned at his assignment since it would give him a shot to show his strength and power to the dwarves. How dare they give his father and people trouble. He was surely going to show them a thing or two. The dwarves should see it as an honor to be blacksmiths and make equipment for them. Asgardians did make armor and weapons true, but the dwarves were in a league of their own in both craftsmanship and work ethic.
"I will make you proud father. They will be spoken and dealt with so they don't cross us. They might make great weapons and they should continue to do so. As your son, I will be sure to make you proud and show the dwarves not to mess with the might of Asgard." Thor professed as he left to gather his friends and search for Egil.
Loki just hoped his brother wouldn't be in over his head. Though it was rather curious Odin was splitting them up and not having them go together on a united front. Loki wondered if this meant Odin wanted to really test them on individual merits. If so, Loki would surely be able to do what Odin wants with ease. He might not be a physical threat, but his mind, tongue, and magic were unparalleled.
" What about me, father?" Loki asked as he was curious where Odin would send him.
Odin sighed.
"I don't know what has gotten into the King and Queen of Vanaheim but they are letting their council run things there...or rather their high councilman Volund. Normally my diplomats would be able to reach reasonable renegotiations but the last two decades have been tooth and nail with them. They refuse to let my people hunt on their lands even though we would allow them on ours, they are withholding their luxury goods from us, and they haven't made appearances in my court in quite a time. None of my men have been convincing to Volund and he's really the one to sway the others in his position and their majesties of Vanaheim."
Loki listened and he did wonder why the relationship got rocky. The name Volund was familiar and it dawned on him that it was the same councilman that Astrid was learning diplomacy from in her trips to Vanaheim. He adored her and was a family friend to her biological father and aunt. Though Loki was proud of his own abilities, Odin should really send Astrid since she would be more convincing.
" Father, why send me? I am quite honored you would allow me to help our people but we do have a Vanir that would help us. Lady Astrid would likely be able to convince the councilman with treaties and help better relations." Loki noted
Odin raised an eyebrow. Loki was not being proud and he acknowledged someone would be better, albeit his close friend. This did please Odin though since Astrid was developing to become a very prominent figure in his lands and Vanaheim if her relations to him and Vanaheim officials proved anything.
"Astrid...has she been studying diplomacy?" he questioned.
" Well yes during her 5 years in her homeland and her frequent visits, she has been studying diplomacy under Volund himself, seems if anyone may be able to convince him it's her." Loki expressed
Odin chuckled.
"Perhaps, but I need a son of mine to be a part of the talks to better conditions for the Asier. Still...Egil failed to mention his daughter was taking up diplomacy and that she's been rubbing elbows with the high council of Vanahiem. If I'd known, I would have sent her sooner."
" With all due respect father, I think it was intentional he did not know. He was not keen on Astrid going back there let alone for 5 years or her frequent trips to see her extended family. Nonetheless I shall bring Astrid along if you permit it. We will be able to speak to Volund and the others to see what is causing strain between Vanaheim and Asgard. I am confident we will resolve the issues and have us all be more harmonious towards each other." Loki spoke with poise and grace.
Odin studied his son carefully and nodded. If anything he was at his wits end with the talks. He would hate to go to Vanaheim and break into another war or have fights with Vanaheim, just over clothes, jewels, hunting land, and lack of presence in personal relations. He knew his son's silver tongue would be very convincing and Astrid's ties to Vanaheim would bolster relations. Both of them being so connected with magic may also prove to be the best in speaking with the high council since they respect what Vanaheim was built on.
"Very well Loki. Look after one another and be sure your talks benefit both realms. Remember, you are my son and an heir to the throne. Do not fail me and represent me well Loki."
Loki smiled confidently and nodded.
" I am sure that both of us can convince the council and Volund to see your views and come to an arrangement that will suit both realms." Loki expressed.
Odin nodded but he was rather mixed on having Loki be alone with Astrid. However, he was confident that Loki would treat kindly like they always have and that both would make a good pair for diplomacy.
"I do think your mother decided to take Astrid to conduct an advanced magic lesson in the garden."
Loki smiled and bowed in respect before heading out. He smirked, feeling confident but also happy that Astrid was allowed to accompany him. Who knows, they might even have some time alone together since Thor had been an annoying third wheel lately. He went to the garden and saw his mother and Astrid. Seems his mother was teaching Astrid some advanced magic, conjuration to be exact. He approached them both with the softest of smiles.
" Hello mother, hello Astrid, how are magic lessons going?' Loki asked with a sweet smile.
Astrid smiled lightly and went to hug him.
"They are adequate. Conjuration is a bit more advanced than I thought it would be. I can send objects away no problem but it's...well conjuring back that is a bit rougher. It's much different than my weapon summoning that's for sure." she blushed lightly.
Frigga smiled warmly and held Astrid's hand.
"Not to worry Astrid, you will learn it, you are very skilled." Frigga smiled
Astrid nodded and returned her attention to Loki. She had thought Loki would have been with her today with his mother but he was just stopping by now. She recalled that he had been with his father on business and she wondered what Odin wanted.
"What happened with the Allfather?" Astrid asked.
" He would like you to accompany me to Vanaheim. Father wants to achieve treaty revisions but it seems the council is not very fond of that idea. I thought perhaps you may help me convince him otherwise so there will be no fighting or war." Loki stated
Astrid nodded and linked his arm in his. Frigga looked at Loki and gave him a light nod.
"Do be mindful of what you say Loki. Volund is a very proud man who doesn't like to be spoken down to. There's a reason why he's the final say in decisions before reaching the King and Queen there." Frigga warned.
Loki nodded.
" Understood mother. I hope both of us will be able to convince him" Loki noted
Frigga nodded and a thought dawned on her.
"Don't be taken aback if you need to spend the night in Vanaheim. Sometimes these affairs do take some time and make the best of your time together." Frigga expressed with equal parts warmth and concern.
She knew Loki and Astrid were romantically involved and she was both happy and worried about them. It wouldn't be long before Loki would be like his brother Thor and perhaps want to bed Astrid. She could see the love in their eyes, but she couldn't ignore the lust that was building as well.
" Thank you for your advice mother, we should be heading out now. Do have a good rest of your day" Loki said with a warm smile as he hugged his mother lightly
Once Loki was done, he and Astrid teleported themselves to the Bifrost Bridge and made their walk together to meet with Hiemdall. Astrid was informed of the issues Odin wanted resolved and Astrid had ideas on why Volund perhaps was not being open to the terms.
"What are you thinking Astrid? You know Volund well enough, do you think he will be open to negotiations?" Loki asked.
Astrid sighed.
"Well...You're not like the others in terms of speaking and he might value our words since we see things from all angles. Besides, the main thing is to show him respect since there is a reason the council exists and it's not just so the royals don't have to deal with every political or relation issue among the realms. The king and queen value the council and they help to make important decisions for their realm and relations with others. If not for the council, a lot of tragedy and anguish could have befallen them and others."
" Well of course, as someone who knows how irritating it is to be talked down to and looked past, I would show the councilman respect. I really would like to avoid the risk of war breaking out, I do think it will be tense between us if that's the case" Loki noted somewhat sarcastically in an attempt to break tension.
Astrid nodded and cracked a light smile.
"Well Volund already knows of you so things will be smooth once we show up. We just need to hear out what Vanaheim would demand of Odin since there has to be a reason for the standstill."
They were sent to the citadel in Vanaheim and Astrid led Loki into the pavilion with the council. Loki was blown away by the marble white decor and an almost divine and supernatural feel to the room. He noticed that the council all sat on high chairs that seemed to look down on those who came. There on the highest chair was Volund and he couldn't help but smile lightly at Astrid. He motioned the others to get up as he summoned a table and chairs below. He rose from his seat and went down to greet Astrid. He looked over to Loki and chuckled lightly.
"Who did the All Father send me this time? I might have an idea who, but enlighten me young man." Volund asked.
Loki smiled slightly and bowed to him to show some respect. He needed to both work with him but also play to Volund's prestige and power.
"It is an honor to meet you. I am Loki Odinson, second son of Odin," Loki introduced himself calmly in a respectful tone.
Volund looked over Loki with a curious yet welcoming gaze. He gave a slight bow to acknowledge Loki's position of power before sitting with the other council at the table. He motioned Astrid and Loki to sit at the opposite end since he knew this wasn't a courtesy call, but an act of diplomacy and negotiations.
"Let me guess, The All Father wants his 'demands' met? Let's see….free reign on our lands so his people can slaughter our animals in excess and possibly starve our people and harm the lands. Demand our seamstresses, garment makers, and jewelers slave away at luxury for them only for him to stiff us in payments. Oh and there's the reason of courts and parties. Quite frankly, his balls aren't the issue but the feasts are truly what are ghastly. His people gorge and gorge not realizing just how vulgar they are. Why, councilwoman Gertrude was appalled by the excessive gasses and lack of manners by your father's finest men the last feast we attended and she is the second in command in our council. Are you aware of all this?" Volund stated firmly. Loki chuckled as he understood quite well
" Yes, councilman Volund, I am well aware of how brutish and ill mannered some of my people can be, more so at parties and after being drunk. I do think you have a beautiful home and your people work hard to provide us what my father requests, they do not deserve to be underpaid." Loki noted calmly
Volund let out a light chuckle as he interlocks his fingers.
"Ah Odin the Allfather was wise to send you...as well as my darling little protégé. Odin is already making a slightly better impression already...however I cannot and will not allow mistreatment of the people of Vanaheim to continue or worry that his men will over hunt and ravage our home. That's the very reason we've been isolating ourselves since his battle with the Jotuns."
Loki listened and he understood where Volund was coming from.
"Yes and let's not forget Asgard's lack of respect for magic. Loki and I know first hand how magic isn't taken so seriously as a combat art or a beneficial skill. It's mostly women that are taught and it's for simple house work or parlor tricks. It must sadden the council to see what they value is looked down upon in Asgard." Astrid spoke openly.
Volund nodded and Loki sighed in agreement.
"I only am the skilled sorcerer I am because my mother taught me. Men in magic are rare in Asgard and with all respect, my father really is one-sighted on what makes a warrior. We understand why you're wary of wanting to adjust what we have between us since you see a lot of it as disrespect and there is still tumultuous blood between our realms." Loki told them.
Volund looked at Loki and could see the sincerity in his eyes. However, he could hear his fellow members being unsure of wanting to follow Odin's demands even more so.
"Volund, you know Odin is at the end of his rope. He's been very patient but he feels direct as well and he's the All Father. Fights and war have passed his lips and I know you of all people want to prevent that for their Majesties." Astrid appealed.
Volund sighed.
"Yes I am very much aware of that. The last one before you threatened us with war and we all needed to send a message to Odin not to threaten us. Think it took their healers weeks to mend him from all our afflictions. We are a proud race that values our magic and land and we will not settle for less to please anyone, including the All Father." Volund expressed firmly.
Astrid could see coldness in Volund's eyes but she knew it was just an intimidation tactic. She couldn't tell by looking at Loki if Volund's glance was working or if Loki was putting on an act to appeal to Volund's pride. Loki nodded and softened his gaze towards the councilmen. He demonstrated some magic by conjuring a quill and parchment so he could hear Volund and the council's demands. His father wasn't going to get everything he wanted without offering something in return. All Father or not, he needed to respect Vanaheim; especially his dearly beloved was from there and that mattered greatly to him.
"There must be something we can discuss so perhaps both parties will benefit and avoid future wars. With all respect, neither of us want war and there must be something your people want and need as well. Odin didn't discuss what you wanted so it's only fair to assume he didn't value what you wanted. We do and we can convince him but we want you all to work with us." Loki said as gives a compliant smile.
Volund put up a barrier charm around him and the council and they were clearly talking amongst themselves. Loki was fascinated by the spell, as was Astrid, since they couldn't hear a word the council was discussing. Volund looked to them beyond the barrier and smiled slightly at their interest in their eyes before resuming talks with his fellow council members.
"I do believe we may reach something. Everyone always wants something and if we meet them halfway with their demands, they may be willing to settle on the terms of renegotiations." Loki expressed somewhat confidently.
Astrid smiled and laced her hand in his.
"You really care for them, the Vanirs don't you?"
"I care for both them and Asgard. I respect the Vanirs for their love of magic, the way they hold themselves...and for you." Loki mused lightly.
Astrid blushed softly.
"You truly have a way with words to charm. But it is something I adore in you."
Volund removed the barrier and he settled down with the rest of the council.
"We do have demands, but let me see...Astrid you know some of our inner workings. What do you think we would suggest?" Volund proposed.
Astrid was a bit confused as was Loki until Astrid realized he was using an official trades and relations meeting as a lesson for her. She was astounded by his gall to have this potential life changing meeting be a lesson, but Astrid would take it in stride. If Astrid knew something very well, it was Vanaheim's military needed improvement. The Aesir-Vanir war took a toll on the warriors Vanaheim had and the ones that were left weren't at the level of skill they once were. The dwarves might even beat them handily in non-magic combat and it was the lack of desire to Vanir men to stay here to be warriors that concerned them. They needed teachers and skills training, to which there was plenty of in Asgard.
"Well I did hear our majesty has been concerned with his military since a lot of men that would make up his non-magical frontlines lack the teachers they need. Asgard is full of warriors that would be wonderful teachers to Vanirs who want to protect Vanaheim in more combative ways." Astrid expressed.
Volund was taken slightly aback but Astrid did make a point. She truly paid attention and that made him proud.
"Astrid does make a point...it's gotten so bad that some of our own have even abandoned us for Asgard. If your father perhaps will have some of his finest warriors be teachers for a few years time to help teach our men to fight, it could ease things a bit. It might even inspire more men to take a military route so we can rebuild our strength in that area of weakness." Volund sighed.
Loki thought and nodded. He was familiar with their history and there were some warriors that have seen retired from service with some fight left that can be perfect teachers. Men with ego to teach a thing or two in their prime would always be good candidates.
" I am sure I can convince my father to send some of the finest warriors here to train and be teachers to your warriors. I do admire magic and am fond of it as I spent most of my life learning it. However, I must admit that magic is not the only way to fight, and it is useful to learn non magical combat and train with weapons. I will do my best to convince father of this since he owes you quite a debt for leaving you in these straits." Loki stated as he wrote that down on his parchment.
Astrid smiled slightly.
"You also need to be sure The All Father gives Vanirs their dues with the payments since he can't just have something for nothing. I would recommend a slight pay raise since they have gotten so creative in what they are making and they are skimping any expense to create such luxuries." Astrid expressed to Loki.
" Of course not, all the Vanirs have worked really hard to provide for us, so father cannot simply just expect free things. He will have to repay everything he is owed and perhaps a slight raise." Loki noted
Volund nodded as he looked through his books.
"If your father insists on his people hunting on our lands, I firmly suggest fall and winter. Spring and summer are not to be touched since that is when breeding occurs. None shall strike a female animal and he should allow our people to hunt on his lands as well; perhaps even export to us some of his assortment of fruits and grains to our lands as well." Volund expressed formally. Loki smiled and nodded.
" That is a very reasonable request, I am sure I can convince father, if not mother certainly will since female animals especially if expectant mother should be safe from greed of hunters." Loki expressed.
Volund nodded.
"I suppose with all of this, we will best try to resume relations and have some nobles and council attend your celebrations and court. In return of course, hopefully your people will learn a bit of decorum and remember their manners. It's not like we don't like the people of Asgard; the women are wonderful; it's the men just need to hold themselves better." Volund expressed.
"And I will be sure that if the All Father needs to send people to represent Asgard in many of your celebrations, the finest and well mannered of us all will attend, that will include my brother and myself from time to time." Loki spoke.
The council smiled at Loki and Volund clapped softly in amusement.
"You learned well Astrid. I'm glad I had you learn Vanaheim's class systems. It helped you to secure something Vanaheim needs and in term Asgard will get what they need, want and desire. It seems balanced, wouldn't you say?" Volund asked Astrid.
Even though this was an actual trade agreement and treaty renegotiation, this was still an exercise for Astrid and now for Loki.
"It is an honor to learn from you, Volund. I learned a lot that I do think will benefit in the future." Astrid stated confidently.
"Of course since if the worlds are constantly at odds and at war, trust can never be formed. It's best to be sure to make sure both sides come away with something they wanted and the best case, it would be even on both sides. Now let's get the paperwork set up so the All Father can go through it. If he wants what he wants, he wouldn't refuse us. He should be thankful we're not asking for the other main thing our king wanted."
" If you don't mind my asking, what else did your king request ?" Loki asked curious yet also cautions.
Volund looked to his fellow council and they all nodded.
"He would have wanted Egil to serve time in our prisons for his discretion against our lands. However, seeing how Egil is a very close friend and comrade to Odin he would of course refuse. It's probably why we have been having standstills. Odin would have seen those discretions as the glue that established our peace treaty. Others can now go to Asgard if they wish to learn to fight and serve Odin, but when Egil did it, he betrayed his people and everything we stood for." Volund spoke ominously.
Loki's eyes widened as this was something he did not expect to hear. He looked at Astrid to see what she thought and wondered, what exactly did Egil do that he was such a coward to run from his punishment?
"You shouldn't be surprised, Loki. Egil defected to Asgard when war first broke out. He knew a lot of war secrets and tactics from Vanir tacticians and warriors that gave Asgard the edge in the war. He's a war hero to Asgard but a war criminal that was pardoned by the All Father and thus unless Odin revokes it, he can't be punished for his treasonous acts. No wonder relations have been troubled. Vanaheim still hasn't forgotten it's traitor and it explains why he retreated to Asgard until he settled there for good with my mother and I." Astrid stated in a somewhat monotone voice.
Loki scoffed in annoyance. Egil betrayed his people and ran away to his friend, who happened to be Odin of all beings, and now he had the right to act all high and mighty and tell Astrid what to do and whom to belong to.
" What a conniving coward." Loki stated.
"Alas that he is and it angered most of us that he was allowed to roam free here until he left for Asgard for good. However I'm not going to ask you both to have that be part of the negotiations since we know how Odin is for his friends. Everything else we discussed will be followed. I will try having our people go to special feasts in Asgard despite displeasures at times...but we would like for you and Astrid to attend our balls here. In fact, we have one this evening we would love for you to attend."
Loki smiled and looked at Astrid.
"I would love a chance to dance and be seen with you without having to worry about that coward that has the gall to call himself your father." Loki mused.
"Yes but as a prince Loki, you will need to dance with the Vanir woman as a sign of diplomatic relations and respect and I will have to dance with other men." Astrid mentioned.
Volund clapped tenderly.
"That you would, young prince, but no worries. You and Astrid will have your dances together….Oh and in fact, there is somewhere I want to take you after we wrap up this meeting." Volund said with a light smile.
"Very well, I do think this has been a productive conversation and to a certain point revelation as well." Loki smiled
"Always a plus when something is learned and compromises are reached to benefit both parties. Do encourage your father to allow yourself to maintain affairs between Asgard and Vanaheim. Though you are young, you already have the makings of a great diplomat and a good king." Volund praised with the lightest of smirks.
Loki offered a small smirk.
" So where is this place you wanted to take us?" Loki asked.
Volund smiled and he motioned Astrid and Loki to follow him. He teleported them all to a rather warm and charming house made out of mostly wood and stone that bordered on the outskirts of the palace city. It was a medium sized house with a small garden out front and a big tree, the doors were made of stone, and it had an earthy feel to it.
"This...once belonged to Frode. I've been tending to it since his death...it's only fitting that it belongs to Astrid since she is his heir. Who knows...it can be a lovely home for you both someday."
Astrid was moved that Volund had been taking care of the house for her late father and by all aspects, this was her home. It could perhaps be a place for her and Loki to settle someday, which warmed her heart even more.
" This is a beautiful place, it has elegance and flair without being over the top. Do you have a key for it, Volund?" Astrid asked
Volund removed what was around his neck to show an ornate silver key. He gave it to Astrid and said,
"There should be a dress and suit in the main bedroom for you both. Do take the time to look around since this can be a home away from home. I shall see you both tonight."
Volund disappeared and Astrid couldn't help but look at the house. Her hand trailed along the key and smiled softly at Loki. She let them both and loved the cozy home she was walking into.
"Can you believe this?" she asked.
It wasn't a palace but it was still a rather nice sized home. It made Astrid happy and it even made him happy too.
" It is really charming, this was your true fathers home at one point in time" Loki noted as he looked around
Astrid smiled as she noticed Volund's upkeep of the place. Warm blankets were over the sofa, there was an inviting fireplace in the living room, there were many ornate yet practical decorations in the home, and a warm kitchen to note a few things. She did frown slightly when she noticed a carving on a pillar that read Our first home. T+F and little one.
A stray tear fell since it really hit her that this was supposed to be her home. She would have grown up here, having a completely different life; a life where her mother was happy and with the man she loved.
"This would have been the house I would have grown up in...he was planning for this to be a home for my mother and me." Astrid sighed.
Loki noticed her sadness and gently put his hand on Astrid's shoulders.
" Astrid, this can still be your home, let's avoid making your mother's mistake and live the life you want. In time this can be a home for us and our little ones."
Astrid was a bit shocked and looked into Loki's eyes softly. She blushed at the idea since he was the first to bring up children.
"You want children?" she asked tenderly.
Loki kissed her forehead and gazed into her golden amber eyes.
"Only if you are the mother, I cannot imagine anyone else by my side. In time of course, we have no need to rush. I want a life with you before we settle down and have some children." Loki noted with smirk as he grazed Astrid's stomach with his fingertips.
Astrid chuckled lightly and pecked his lips.
"Wouldn't that be something if I am to be with a child, my breasts becoming full of milk to feed them...my stomach growing to carry your child...wouldn't that be a sight."
Loki embraced Astrid in a soft embrace. He truly wanted Astrid to be happy and her speaking so fondly at having his children someday, truly awakened a desire for him. He was blessed that Astrid loved him and someday would want to be the mother of his children. It was enough to please any man, but especially for Loki since he thought he wouldn't have that chance.
" It would be my dear, I think you will be a wonderful mother." Loki whispered.
"And you being a gentle, sensitive, and loving father."
Loki smiled as they shared a soft kiss. They allowed their hands to wander softly and they both had a loving yet longing look in their eyes.
"Let's agree not to go home after the ball tonight...I think it would be for us to make this our home." Astrid mused with a light blush.
Loki could only grin and stroked her cheek.
"Is your mind where mine is?" Loki asked.
"Depends...is it with me sharing deep intimacy and making this house truly a home we can have a life in?"
Loki stroked her cheek and pecked her lips.
"That it is."
"It's just so bad we can't neglect the ball, but I promise you tonight you'll be all mine and I'll be yours." Astrid purred in his ear.
Loki smiled since truly no one truly knew Astrid and these private moments confirmed that. They did well for Asgard today and tonight, they would have their moment of complete intimacy they both longed for.