"Another feast? Why so soon?"

"It seems Cassidy has insisted. She wanted to bring her advisors from home for everyone to meet."

"Of course she did." Loki growled.

Thor patted him on the shoulder, "It is not all bad," he tried to console, "We shall be together!"

Loki sighed loudly resigning himself to go to yet another unnecessary banquet. He detested all the unwanted attention it would bring. But of course, Odin had insisted that he go. Thor was persuasive in his own way. He had successfully impersonated a lost puppy at the thought of Loki not being in attendance and Loki admitted defeat.

The night approached quickly and having come from another visit with Ashera, Loki's mood was more amicable than usual. He dressed in his fine armor quickly and polished his horned helmet before leaving his rooms. A small smile played on his lips as he thought back on his day. Ashera was still progressing quickly in all categories; except telepathy that is. They had yet to make a connection, but it was a difficult subject even for the best magic wielders. She had looked so cute when she had tried to forge that connection by force. Her eyes closed and nose scrunched up, a half scowl plastered onto her face. Being unsuccessful she had clicked her teeth together in frustration and thrown herself backwards onto the grass, hair splaying out in a reckless pattern. He chuckled at the thought and shook his head. Ashera had certainly taken over many of his thoughts. He wondered when exactly that had happened, but knew there was no reason in trying to pinpoint it.

He reached the hall and headed for his seat. At first it appeared Thor was not there, but finally saw him on the side of the hall near the gardens speaking with a few of the guards. He caught his eye and Thor nodded and smiled in acknowledgment. Loki took his seat, not wanting to intrude, and poured himself a glass of wine. His thoughts wandered but he found himself feeling calmer than usual in the uncomfortable setting.

He tried to stay positive as he saw Fendral walk in, followed by Volstagg, Hogun, and Siff. Thor had yet to join the table as he continued to get caught up with other guests. The three men situated themselves around Thor's seat that sat to Loki's left. Siff was the only one who was brazen enough to sit across from Loki. While the others began a soft conversation regarding simple things such as the weather, Siff looked over at him.

"How have you been?" she questioned in his direction.

Loki looked to both sides before giving her a questioning look that was partially a joke as most times no one addressed him directly; his smile still showing residual signs as it turned the sides of his mouth upward. He surprised even himself when he got a small giggle out of Siff from his incredulous look. He gave her his best Loki grin as he answered her question.

"Things are going well dear Siff thank you for asking." He gestured in her direction as he took his turn, "I hope you have been well?"

She nodded in response, "Thor has told me you are training the guards together."

"Yes, it was father's request." Loki paused before adding, "Although it is a worthwhile endeavor."

"You should know," Siff said softly, "Thor loves having you around again. I hope this time it will last." She looked into his eyes seriously, trying to impart the importance of her comment.

Loki was taken aback for a moment. Siff cared for her friends and Thor was very close to her heart. He would normally have made a joke or snarky comment to advise against her compassion and concern but instead he found himself smile gently in earnest. "It would appear so." He agreed. Then, keeping his voice low, leaned in and admitted, "I am actually enjoying his company for a change as well." He sat back in his seat and smiled even wider at the shock that displayed itself clearly on Siff's face. The following look told him she wasn't sure how to take that response and questioned if he was lying. Loki chuckled and held up his hands in surrender admitting once more with a shrug, "It's true." She seemed to relax and accept his words, but with some reservations. Even so, they continued some polite conversation until Thor arrived to sit with them at the table.

The night continued on, it was more pleasurable than Loki expected and he could tell Siff was beginning to accept him more. They had all been friends long ago. Loki was slowly realizing it was nice to have a few things almost back to normal. Although he had to credit Ashera for his demeanor, he was taking her advice after all.

Loki had become so intent on his own group and enjoying their company he forgot the reason for the feast in the first place. He poured more wine for everyone still smiling as he felt the presence of someone sit to his right. For a moment he almost expected to see Ashera sitting there smiling and laughing along with the rest of them. He turned with the wine pitcher and a welcoming smile. He had to stop himself from outwardly frowning at the sight he found instead.

"Good evening everyone!" Cassidy trilled, "You seem to be in a good mood today Prince Loki" the girl beamed as she seated herself next to him, not bothering to ask. "You have been well I assume?" She batted her eyelashes at the prince.

Loki stiffened slightly but tried to keep his smile, "Yes, thank you Lady Cassidy." he tried to be polite as Ashera had imparted on him the importance of it. Even the thought of her now made his lips turn up ever so slightly. The reaction did not go unnoticed by Cassidy who misinterpreted the sign.

Blushing slightly the girl continued "Well that is wonderful! Perhaps we can visit the gardens again tonight. They look to be in full bloom now."

Loki was pulled from his thoughts and he blinked at her before responding. "I do believe I am needed elsewhere later, but thank you for the invitation." He said in an attempted to continue his good behavior. Thor looked over at him in confusion but said nothing.

Cassidy pouted slightly but quickly recovered. Addressing them all she said, "Well, this feast is for everyone to meet my immediate court so when you are through with your meal please come visit our table and I can introduce you. We will also be going around later this evening so everyone can speak with one another." She gestured toward her table and the large group that was sat there. "We look forward to seeing you." Cassidy let her hand drop to Loki's shoulder before addressing him again now that she had his full attention along with everyone else so he could not easily ignore her. "I know you are busy, but please do come by before you leave, everyone is so excited to meet you." She smiled before allowing her hand to drift down his arm parting only as she walked away.

Loki shuddered slightly as she departed. Thor was still looking curiously at him and the others held their own questioning looks. Loki's mood had diminished quickly after that interaction and he tried his best to appear normal. It fooled no one.

Loki knew he would not be able to skip meeting the visiting Vanier but he had been hoping for a short visit so he could leave the room altogether. Cassidy took notice of him as he walked over to their table with Thor and skipped over. "Prince! Right this way I shall introduce you personally." She said it as if it was a great honor.

Finally Loki had meet everyone and conversed appropriately enough he could make his excuses and take his leave. "It was a pleasure meeting you," He stated to one of Cassidy's esteemed healers, "But I really must be going. Thank you for your time and efforts it has been lovely." Loki gave a polite bow as he attempted to leave the table.

Cassidy caught on and snuck over to weave her arm into his. "Oh Prince, must you leave already?" she sweetly pleaded. "We still have so much time in the night!"

"Ah yes, I do apologize but I have training in the morning and I need my rest. I hope you all enjoy the rest of your evenings." He slyly addressed everyone so it would force Cassidy to let him go. It worked perfectly and he was able to unravel his arm from her grasp and make his getaway.

She smiled for the crowd that had gathered for all the introductions, but glared after him in her own mind. He thought he could play her favorite card against her. He was good but she would catch him one way or another.