I kind of wanted to clear up some things about Loki. Right now, he is 9 years old (In Midgardian years) and when I had people vote and comment on his age, that is for a later age. Right now he's nine, later he will age. As in every year that passes he… yea I think y'all get it. Hope that makes some things clear… hopefully… I really hope you enjoy this chapter. Be looking out for a new character too. Not an OC but someone I think Marvel fans absolutely love.
Hope you enjoy! This chapter was so much fun making with this character! Hope you're all okay after everything goes down with this virus… but being stuck home will make it easier to write stories more often. I hope you guys forgive me for the late chapter… but I did make it extra long! To make up for the lateness! Thanks for reading and I hope you guys enjoy it! On with the story!
-cluelessreader
Chapter 13
It had been months. Loki was helping Thor prepare everything needed for New Asgard's first celebration on earth. The first month was spent trying to build up New Asgard. Which was a slow process. Much to Loki's annoyance.
"Thor, you have to let me help! My magic could make things run so much quicker!" Loki said walking quickly to keep up with Thor's normal strides.
This wasn't the first time he'd said that. He had been trying to get Thor to let him help for weeks. Yet no matter what Loki said it was always some half hearted excuse.
'Save your energy Loki'
'Your magic isn't perfected yet'
'You could hurt yourself or others'
'We have it under control'
Literally every reason that would make sense was used up. And Loki was sick of it.
"Loki, you know what my answer is going to be. We have it-"
"Under control. Yes I know. But I know I could help! I remember studying the schematics of Asgard," A concerned look filled Thor's face. "I was bored in class, anyway, I have a feeling I can make the buildings resemble the infrastructure! If I have enough supplies I could just magic it up."
At least Thor took a few seconds to act like he was going to consider it.
"I can't risk something happening Loki."
Oh the stars above. How was he supposed to help… IF HE WASN'T ALLOWED TO HELP!? Truly Truly exasperating.
"Okay Thor… well if you need me I'll be home." Loki relented. Well he never quite relents, just needs to rethink how to help without Thor knowing.
Thor smiled happily. "Alright little brother, I'll be out all day. More to watch over after all."
Loki nodded, embracing his brother quickly before running home. Idea's running around in his head. He needed to help New Asgard, whether Thor allows it or not.
Soon he saw the house, running in and going straight for Thor's room. There must be something in his things to tell him about the outside world. Plus who doesn't like snooping in their siblings' things. Not the best habit, but a fun one nevertheless.
Lady Brunnhilde wasn't home either, so definitely a plus to Loki. He looked around and realized something. Thor owns nothing! Why. Why doesn't he own things!?
Okay so he knew.
But still, buy something! Soon enough looking around in Thor's things was a lost cause. How else could he learn things if New Asgard didn't have a library, a school, or anyway to get knowledge?
His green eyes went to the door. He climbed off Thor's bed, opening the door and seeing the TV. There was a lot of crap on that, but maybe… just maybe he could learn where to go. Clicking on the TV he went straight to the news. Really hoping he could avoid any miss information that could mess up his search.
He went through channel after channel… not finding anything. Now what! Loki sat, cross legged on the couch, thinking about a new plan. Something he could do to figure out what he needed.
A searching spell?
well that sounded like a good idea. But what to search for. That was the issue. Well, it doesn't hurt just to let his magic flow around. Jumping off the couch, he headed back to Thor's room. Closing the door behind him, hoping that if anyone came back to the house, the door and noise would give him a bit of warning till Thor, inevitably, comes barging in.
He misses his room…
Okay! Focus. He sat on Thor's rather uncomfortable bed and closed his eyes. He just let his magic run, holding a simple order of needing help. Help with building. Visions flashed before his eyes. Places under construction, some with company names. Most too far away for him to reach. Quickly his magic refined his search. Thank the Norms his mother taught him this spell. More companies flashed, some that had reached world wide.
S.T.A.R.K Industries flew in his mind's eye. Showing projects that were made by them. Then the owner- Loki had to stop.
Stark.
He had to see Stark of all people. Rolling his eyes he shook Stark from his mind. Closing his eyes again, his magic made another change. Good people being added in the search across the world. Stark didn't come up again.
But a golden city did. Gold and silver. Advanced for Midgard. But everything seemed advanced to Loki, he couldn't remember the realm changing after all. But this place was different. It was bright blue and clean. A country split 4 ways. A part dark and snowy. The rest warm and green. Depictions of a feline animal ever present.
It looked like Asgard… maybe this is where he can get some help.
He opened his eyes again. Keeping the flashes of the city in his mind. Then he slid off Thor's bed, got his bearings and prepared a different spell. The familiar feeling of his magic wrapping around him was all he could feel. He closed his eyes and was dragged to a new city.
The feeling of hardish carpet was soon replaced by soft grass. Opening his eyes he gasped. Seeing the vision did not give the city its justice. Loki turned his head taking in the amazing land.
The large waterways that lead through the city. The mountains that surrounded the buildings, yet somehow the buildings kept up with them. Both towers and natural mountains look perfect together. And the city itself… amazing skyscrapers, beautifully crafted homes and lands.
It wasn't gold but the material still shun as such. The silver is almost as bright as stars. But… something was wrong… The way the city felt. It didn't seem as bright as the land looked. It was like a blanket of sadness was over everything. While the city shun brightly the people did not.
Something moved behind him. He couldn't hear it but his scenes were never wrong. It seemed far away so he just used one of his best spells. Magic once more enveloped him making no longer viewable by the human eye.
"Where did he…"
A young woman's voice came. Clearly the language being spoken is different but once more, thank the Norms for All-speak. Loki could easily tell what she was saying. She walked closer as Loki moved toward the tree line.
Thinking about it now, with the view he got of the city, he was most likely somewhere he wasn't supposed to be. Looking behind himself, he saw what was the largest building. Well it certainly looked like a grand palace to Loki. Thanks magic. Sent him straight to the palace.
Quickly climbing up the tree, he silently kept his eye on whomever was about to come into view.
A girl walked close, wearing a black sheath dress with a halter see-through neckline. She had white tribal looking marks along her face and her hair in many braids in one large high bun. She had one arm a little out in front of her. Black beads lining said arm. A blue hologram atop the middle bead on the inside of her wrist.
He couldn't tell what was on it but Norms was it interesting looking. He knew his magic could do something like that but to see tech doing it… it was invigorating.
"You should know that I can see you. So I suggest you come down from there white boy."
Of course he flinched. No one had ever seen him before when he was invisible.
"Unless you want me to get the guards."
"Okay! Okay I'm coming down." Loki said quickly climbing down. Jumping the last few feet landing on his feet perfectly.
"I'll ask again. Who are you." The girl asked, a look of suspicion but also intrigue lacing her eyes.
"Um- my name is Prince Loki, of New Asgard…" Loki said. Really hoping his voice sounded strong like his brother and not as nervous as he was.
"A prince huh. And what is a prince doing trespassing on royal grounds of another kingdom?" She asked, lowering her arm, the hologram dissipating before Loki's eyes.
He almost didn't answer, the girl catching him marveling at the technology. Sure he saw something like it with Stark but this one was so small and personalized.
Quickly shaking his head he finally answered. "My home needs help. I was searching for someone that might be willing to help and my magic lead me-"
"Did you just say magic? As in voodoo or hoodoo? Like a slip of the hand?" The girl interrupted her eyes going wide with curiosity.
Loki opened his mouth to respond but something ticked in his mind. "Um… yes! I said magic. I'll tell you about it, if you tell me what's on your wrist." Loki said. His voice has a hint of hopefulness but also keeps himself closed off a bit. Can't seem too eager or she might not tell him.
The girl seemed to think for a bit. He could see the battle being waged in her mind. Eventually a small smile made its way on her face.
"I'll tell you, and you tell me about your 'magic' yes?"
Loki nodded.
"Alright then. Deal." She held out her arm. Reminding Loki of the way his people greet. Must be how it works here.
Loki gripped her forearm as she did his.
"Come then. Loki, Prince of New Asgard." She turned away, ready to lead him. Not before he stopped her.
"I haven't gotten your name ma'am." Loki said respectfully.
She turned her head a bit, a sly smile on her face.
"I am Shuri. Princess of Wakanda."
Thor was happy his day was over. A few homes were finally done and ready to be moved into now! Remarkable progress done by his people. Eventually his day merged with Valkyrie. She had been helping make town square more towney. Eventually it was 9 at night. Later then he had told Loki… well maybe Loki would like having the house to- okay so he's had the house to himself since they both got back. Maybe he should have let Loki help him out a bit.
But he would rather Loki be safe then out and about. He knows his little brother will understand. Sooner or later.
The two walked back to the house, chatting about tomorrow's plans. The house came into view and… and the lights were all off. Did Loki go to sleep already? A growing unsettling feeling grew in his stomach. He didn't like it.
Thor quickened his pace, Valkyrie following along but looking at him oddly.
He opened the door to nothing. No noise. No light. Nothing.
"Loki?"
He walked further into the house, flicking on the kitchen light. Seeing the house look exactly as it had when everyone left in the morning.
"Loki, where are you?" Thor asked.
Nothing answered him.
"Little brother?"
Still nothing.
Panic started to set in.
"Loki!" Thor yelled opening the door to their room, but seeing no one there.
"Brother! Where are you!? Valkyrie? Is he in your room?" Thor asked running back out to the main room.
"No Thor, he's not here." She answered, her own face giving way to something other than her normal casual and sarcastic ways.
Both looked at each other, before quickly leaving the house into the village. Anxiety and adrenaline prepared them for their search.
Oh Norms… where is he…
The halls were wonderful. Loki thought the buildings on the outside were impressive, but being inside. It was like being home! The girl, Princess Shuri, clearly leading him on the scenic route through the palace. Happily taking in Loki's reactions to everything he was seeing.
"How did- I mean this place is amazing! How is it here? Compared to other parts of the realm, this place is so, I've already said amazing haven't I? There's just no-"
"I know Loki, it is amazing and very advanced." She responded proudly.
"But there is one place I'm sure you will enjoy greatly, young prince." She said filling Loki with excitement.
Guards passed, placing their arms across each other over their chest when Shuri passed. But did look at Loki with clear suspicion.
"Easy, Prince Loki is a guest." Shuri said her eyes following Loki as he went a little further behind her. Eyeing the guards with some trepidation. The women were dressed in red and silver. Mixture of oranges and blues shown across in lines on the red fabric. It made them look beautiful and amazingly dangerous. It made him think of the secret female warriors Lady Ava told him about. Did they have armor like these warriors did?
"Do you wish to introduce yourself Prince Loki?" Shuri said with a small laugh seeing Loki's scared but curious eyes watching the women.
"Um… if they are okay with it- I wouldn't want-"
"If you're going to say 'waste their time' I think we're already doing that." Shuri said rather bluntly. "Would you like to meet the small prince?" Shuri asked, turning her attention to the guards.
One of the two laughed a bit before returning to a stoic protector. "I would see no issue with meeting him." The other said calmly.
Slowly Loki moved out from behind Princess Shuri, walking up to the two women. He started playing with his hands, he didn't even know when he did that. Not knowing how to start introducing himself let alone talking, he remembered their way of greeting Princess Shuri.
He crossed his arms across his chest and bowed a bit at the waist, really hoping he wasn't doing it wrong and actually offending them.
"It is a pleasure to meet you Warriors of Wakanda." He started, not noticing the small smile on the women's faces as well as Princess Shuri subtle recording with her tech. She was absolutely loving this.
Keeping his eyes on the ground he introduced himself, hands going back to fidgeting with one another. "I am Loki, Prince of New Asgard."
The two guards saluted easily. Clearly not as nervous as Loki was.
"Not many Female warriors where you are from Prince Loki?" One of them asked.
Loki smiled a bit, remembering the secret Lady Ava told him about his mother. "There used to be, not many but great warriors nonetheless. They aren't around anymore, I hope to change that." He said confidently.
"Interesting ambitions, from a Prince no less." The other said.
"I know what people think about New Asgard's people, warrior titles belong to 'strong men' while the women stay in the side lines. But I've always hated labels being on people when they should be allowed to be whatever they wish to be." He said with a small smile. Remembering the taunts of Thor's friends for him learning magic and not sword fighting. Taking up a 'womanly art' and showing a bad light of the royal family.
"He is a smart one your highness, knows of insights on the world even while being so young." A warrior said, looking to Princess Shuri with a bit of a proud look on her face.
"I know, not many outside our own think this way. He's unique. As much as I would love to keep looking around, I believe I made a deal with you Prince Loki." Princess Shuri said, leading an end to the conversation. The women saluted once more before returning to their rounds.
"Would I be able to see them train?" Loki asked as they continued on their way to… wherever Princess Shuri was taking him.
"Maybe Prince Loki. Let's focus on our first deal, yes?"
Loki nodded eagerly, really intrigued with the black beads on Princess Shuri's wrists, but making sure not to forget everything he wants to learn about here.
It could help New Asgard if Princess Shuri would be okay with teaching him.
Thor had been searching for an hour now and still no Loki. It's not like he can get lost! He had no idea where Loki could have gone.
"You don't have any ideas. Did he say something?" Valkyrie asked, still keeping her eye out for the young prince.
"If I knew anything, I would be looking there."
She only rolled her eyes. "Did he say anything, I'll ask again. Anything at all?"
"No, he didn't say-" Thor stopped abruptly.
"What? What did he say?"
"Me and him were arguing… about me not letting him help me." Thor said, clearly realizing a few things.
"And?"
"And I think he went to get help…"
"Alright Prince Loki, now close your eyes and hold my hand." Shuri said. Behind her, many flying ships! And trains with no railings! How was he supposed to close his eyes when all he wanted was to soak in everything in view?
Shuri rolled her eyes, clearly knowing what he was thinking.
"I know. 'Amazing and advanced'," She quoted, making Loki laugh a bit. "I will give you a grand tour later, but right now, close your eyes. You're going to see something much grander than my peoples transportation system.
Oh. just a transportation system.
Loki looked over the hole of crazy tech once more before finally closing his eyes.
He felt him enter a metal box, remembering the towers of moving boxes he could assume he was inside one of those. He couldn't tell if he was moving until he felt Princess Shuri pull him forward a bit.
"Come we are almost there."
He heard voices and people walking. Clearly people were walking around and about.
"Okay okay, now stand right here," Princess Shuri said, placing her hands on his shoulders, carefully keeping him still. "Welcome to the Wakandan lab." She said as she finally allowed him to open his eyes.
The lab was magnificent! The walls were a deep black rock, showing a nice texture everywhere. The floors were a mosaic mix of different size tiles and instead of floor mortar in between the tiles, its light! Putting a nice lighting throughout the whole lab. Large circular stairs ran in the middle of the room, also a mix of different sized tiles but the whole staircase was lit up.
Blue electronic screens littered the whole area, some showing different experiments, or just mixed letters of the Wakandan language. The people that littered around had mostly black but the markings on them were a beautiful white.
Loki was awestruck. Granted something was darkening the lab, but that didn't ruin the science at work.
"This is better than I imagined!" Loki exclaimed happily. Wide eyes taking in everything he could see and his mind filling in everything else he couldn't see.
A large smile filled Shuri's face. Taking his little hand, she led him around. Introducing the young prince to everyone that was in the lab. Most were very polite to him, indulge his many questions, and even showed him some things that they were making.
But everywhere Princess Shuri took him, he could see something dark in everyone's eyes. When some people looked at him, their faces lit up. When moments ago, they looked… upset? No that's not that right word. Maybe more… depressed? It didn't sit well with Loki.
He knew that much.
The tour went on, eventually leading Loki to Princess Shuri's personnel area of the lab. She quickly showed some plans of some minor experiments, Loki's mind going to his magic-y and logical side kicked in.
He quickly started asking questions, making new designs, and helping her with some new ideas that were running around in her head.
"What about the beads? How do the beads work, being so small but doing so much?"
She smiled a bit before showing her arm, the beads making the same hologram it did when Loki had been found by Princess Shuri.
"It is tech of my own design. Sure the hologram isn't anything new, S.T.A.R.K industries has been using them for awhile, but I am the first to make them so mobile-"
"And stylish might you add." Loki said, his tone making sound as common knowledge.
Princess Shuri's smile brightened considerably. "Someone should tell that to my bro-"
And then that blanket of morning was back. Loki felt like the temperature dropped by 10 degrees. Shuri's smile was no longer present.
She sucked in a deep breath, shaking her head lightly. A smile back on her face but not reaching her eyes… it seemed forced.
"Princess Shuri?" Loki questioned. He may be young but he's smarter than most when it comes to mood changes. That was one of many things he was better at telling than his big brother.
"If I remember correctly, you and your people just got here?"
Loki nodded. "Something like that."
"What do you mean?" She asked with her eyebrow raised a bit, moving the tribal makeup in a flowing way.
"My people know what happened but I don't…"
She only kept looking at him in confusion.
"Before everything happened- I think, I died. I was an adult and did some things to save the New Asgardians. But Thanos killed me."
She started to speak, the same response he's gotten from many other people.
"I know it's crazy, I still have no logical reason as to why I am back, me and my brother have a running theory but it's just that. A theory. Anyway, I can't remember anything past my 300's. So everything that happened to your people and Midgard, and the whole universe! I don't remember anything."
"You don't… you died? But yet you're here? You don't remember anything… But your people do, and they haven't told you? Or…"
Loki looked very uncomfortable. "I've heard some things that happened, everything very vague. I know the basics you could say. Nothing specific… other than how I died I suppose." He tried to explain. Saying it outloud really didn't sit well with Loki, it felt like Thor treating him like a child. Well… he kind of is, isn't he.
"The king won't tell you? Nor your people?" Princess Shuri asked, her expression complete shock.
Loki only nodded. "Everything Thor has said to our people is what I know basically."
Shuri's eyes went down to her work table. Gears in her head turning. Loki only watched on, really hoping what he said wouldn't make everyone of New Asgard look bad, even though he was sure it made Thor look horrible to the Princess.
"You have been curiously eyeing my people since you got here. Wondering why the dark colors. I could see the confusion clear on your face Loki. I don't know how well the King of New Asgard will act if I do this, but I think telling you would be better than…"
"Then treating me as a child." Loki finished. He was definitely annoyed with Thor for that. But if his big brother wasn't going to tell him everything that happened, best he learn it himself. Not the first time he would be figuring something out that no one would teach him. Hence the first time he ever practiced magic.
"Yes. I can see you are young, but you are smart. And that's coming from me. I will tell you what happened to my people. What the earth is suffering as a whole." Shuri said, her eyes looking back to Loki, a bit of sadness but mischief in them.
Yea, Thor wasn't going to be happy but he's Loki after all. What the issue of making a little chaos. It was his title right? Since when would he sit and listen to what someone told him to do. He couldn't help but smile a bit at that thought.
He was finally going to learn something new about what happened.
Of Course he went to get help! Loki just had to go get help.
"I'm not doing 'get help'..."
Now he does it.
Really.
Thor huffed in annoyance and maybe even a little nostalgia. Loki was never one to listen so… of course he would leave. Where? Thor didn't know.
"What did you tell him?" Valkyrie asked, their search leading them to the coastline of New Asgard. The moon was almost full, stars in perfect sight since there wasn't too much light pollution. The sand was soft and Thor could see some small bird tracks, but they were quickly washed away by the tide.
"He had asked the same question he always asks when he is with me. 'Can I help?' and like every time he asks, I told him no." Valkyrie's eyes narrowed at this. Saying loud and clear 'You are an idiot.'
"You are an idiot. Why would you say that?"
Yep, Thor is getting better at reading people. Loki would be proud.
"I just don't want him hurting himself…"
Her dark eyes met his, clearly trying to see into Thor. "That's not all. I can tell." She said crossing her arms over her chest. "Spill. Why don't you really want him helping out. You know we could use more help."
"It is as I said. I don't want him hurting…" Valkyrie's gaze quickly told him to shut up.
"Thor, i'm not dumb. Why. Won't. You. let. Him. help."
"I don't know…"
"Thor."
"I don't! I really don't!"
"Something he did as a kid or something? Whatever it is, you know Loki is just going to do what he pleases. So i'll ask again. Why won't you let him help, the truth this time. You definitely didn't get his gift of lying, just so you know."
Thor huffed a laugh at that. She wasn't wrong about that. The small smile quickly left his face. "I know- I knew him, Valkyrie. When he grew. He has the power to help, I know he does… but… but I don't want him too because what- what if- what if the people react the same way they did before?" Valkyrie only looked at him with sympathy.
"But he's helped them, surely they will accept his magic as much as they have him. Right?"
"That's what I fear, Valkyrie… yes. Loki helped them. He saved everyone that is here today. But you know our people. We're hard headed and stubborn. Any little bit of Asgard we can keep hold of, I'm sure they will. Even if it is the prejudice of men using magic…"
He remembers it clear as day too. When he learned his brother had magic. That his brother had magic. Thor is still ashamed about it…
"Come on Thor, leave him already! You know he's too young to actually come hunting with us anyway!" A young girl said annoyed. Her blond hair half up and half down. The three other children with her nodded in agreement.
"Sif… you know I was even younger when I first went hunting. Plus he's my brother, who better to show him how to do it than his big brother!" A young Thor said excitedly. He was sure his brother and his friends could get along if they just did something fun together. Sure, the warriors three and Sif didn't get along with Loki as much as he would like… but that's why he must bring Loki along at all! To make it better!
Sif rolled her eyes, but followed along when Thor started walking toward his brother's hall. What is different about Thor and Loki, then just age, looks, and prowess, is how young Loki got his own hall. Thor was maybe 400 before he started living in his own hall. He was always with mother and father.
But Loki… he was barely 250 when he finally got his hall. Already reading and learning too. Happily taking classes of whatever father made him do, other than training. Loki isn't fond of training but Thor knows if he just practices enough, he will get used to it. Thor enjoys it, so why wouldn't his younger brother?
Soon enough the group of 5 were outside the grand dark oak doors. Carved with intricate designs of snakes and trees and wolves and birds. It was a grand looking door. Thors own was a gold with only his newly made crest in its center. There was a large circle in the middle of Loki's door, where his crest would go once he made and earned his.
Opening the door easily enough he strolled into Loki's room. The small boy jumped up from his desk, littered with papers and books.
"T-Thor! I've told you to not do that! Knoc-"
"Yes yes little brother, but whatever you are doing is not as important as what I am about to tell you."
Loki looked very done with Thor, but at least he had a small smile on his face, so Thor kept moving along.
"Is it really or is it important to you. Because you know mother wants me to focus on-"
"Oh you know mother won't mind! Come I think it is time you have your first hunt!"
Loki's eyes widened. Sif and the Warrior Three shifted around behind Thor, clearly not liking the idea as much as Loki himself.
"Thor, I'm only past two naming days… I have one more before I can start going on-"
"Father will make an exception! He did for me after all! I had my first even before my first naming day! Come, you will have your first hunt with me and our friends. It would be an honor for me, your big brother, to have your first hunt." Thor said happily.
He really did mean it too. He wanted his little brother's first hunt to be as amazing as his own! He knows Loki doesn't like fighting, or training, or long travels, or… okay. He might not like anything right now, maybe he just needs a good experience to make him like it.
"Thor… you know I'm to young-"
"So was I! I was way younger! I know you can do it brother." Thor said supportively. Loki looked unsure, the gears turning in his head.
"I don't think it's a good-"
"Please Loki? I promise you will enjoy it! You will be with me and our friends,"
"Your friends…" Loki muttered but Thor didn't seem to notice.
"We will all be together and you will be safe. I know if everyone sees you going on your first hunt now, it will make them admire your strength!" Thor continued on.
"I'm not going to convince you am I?" Loki asked, finally getting in a sentence. Thor always liked using that tactic, if Loki couldn't get a sentence in, he couldn't confuse Thor when he twisted his words.
Sure Loki was young, but somehow he was deadly smart. If only he was strong.
"You will not little brother. Now come, we already have everything ready!" Thor said leaving Loki's room, his friends following behind.
Loki rolled his eyes a bit, but went along anyway.
"Thor… Are you sure father will allow this?" Loki asked, standing a bit behind Thor as they walked the halls. Thor knew father wouldn't so they just had to leave before he could say anything.
"I know he will allow it, do not fret about this any longer brother." Thor quickly calmed. Sure Loki was only 825, a little past his second naming day but that leaves only 400 years before his first allowed hunting day. There should be no issue if Loki had his hunt a little early.
Soon enough the group of six were outside the palace, The warriors four each had their weapons in hand, having finally found weapons they could excel at and love. Thor obviously carried around his new hammer. Since it was a gift from his father, of course he would have it as his new prized weapon.
Loki on the other hand… he still didn't find a weapon that fit him. Sure Thor, being the ever good big brother, tried finding something for his little brother to practice with. Yet nothing seemed to work with Loki's… um… less than normal physical strength.
So Loki was given one of Thor's old swords to go on this hunt with. So what if Loki didn't have a weapon of his own. Thor knows he can get by.
"Where are we headed Thor?" Fanderal asked, trying to sneak glances at Loki. Thor always thought it odd… out of every one of his friends it seemed Fanderal was the most okay with Loki.
"Do you remember where the wild boar are?" Thor asked back, keeping an eye on Loki himself. Everyone knew the broken hearts of girls he would leave around, but Fandral isn't an ergi… right? Whatever was the case, Thor would continue to keep an eye on both Loki and Fandral.
"You mean on the southend of the forest outside Asgard's limits?" Sif answered with a roll of her eyes but a small smile on her face.
"The southend!?" Loki yipped a bit, trying to maintain his hold on Thor's old sword.
Sif, Volstagg, and Hogan all laughed a bit at Loki's reaction. Fandral on the other hand did slow his pace a bit to walk next to Loki, having to pass the warriors to the end of the pack. "You don't need to worry Loki, we're all here so… I'm sure nothing will go wrong." He said a small comforting smile on his face.
Loki, being smaller- much smaller than everyone else, looked up to Fandral and nodded, a reveled smile forming on his face. And… Did Loki get a little pinker?
Thor did not like whatever game Fandral was playing. Nor that Loki was responding.
"I bet you'll find some different herbs now that I think about it." Fandral said calmly walking a little closer to Loki.
Loki looked around excitedly. "I didn't even think of that! I bet mother would appreciate something from the forest!"
Fandral looked quite pleased with himself.
"Brother, come up here won't you? This is your first hunt. I would like to be right by your side." Thor said turning around and walking backwards in front. A pleasant but somewhat forced smile on his face.
Loki looked away from the forest foliage and nodded, pacing to get in front and next to Thor. Fandral looked upset a bit but only walked forward to the warriors and started chatting with them.
The group walked for what seemed forever, they left rather early and now the hot sun was directly over them. Thor saw Loki already struggling. Asgard was already a normally warm place, but in summer it was torture to Loki for some reason.
His little brother was never good with the heat which was odd for him being an Asgardian, like everyone else. His parents always said he was just frailer than most kids his age, and that when he was older he would be more accustomed to the heat but till then, he wasn't allowed to leave the palace till mother deemed it okay.
What's the issue with one outing?
Granted Loki was already looking sweater than everyone else and was kind of struggling but he just needs to get used to the heat, not stay hidden from it. Thor was doing his little brother a favor. Unlike mother. Always keeping him hidden inside. How is he supposed to get used to the heat if he was never in it? It never made sense to Thor.
The sound of rustling grass reached his ears, quickly snapping him out of his thoughts. The warriors behind Thor and Loki braised and instantly got quiet. Crouching down a bit in their battle stances, holding their respective weapons ready for a fight.
Thor took out his hammer, turning it in his hand threateningly, a smile forming on his face, his eyes turned to Loki ready to see his brother act like a proper warrior. Pride filled him, ready to see his brother finally act like him only to see Loki looked terrified…
"What is the matter brother? Your first hunt awaits!" Thor said smiling again, running into the brush to face whatever was moving around on the other side of the trees. He knew a field awaiting him on the other side, so it would be an open and easy to see hunt.
He heard as the others all jumped behind him, following him to their prey. A huge boar was on the other side of said brush. Walking around looking for something to eat. Once everyone ran through the brush, it's attention instantly caught the kids in its sight.
"It is bigger than normal, no?" Volstagg said, hands tightening on his axe. Eyes quickly looking the Thor then back at the large boar.
"Nothing we can't handle, friend! We will feast tonight with it!" Thor said, causing new vigor in the group. The initial fear everyone was struck with when seeing such a large hunt was quickly forgotten. Thor really did have a way with getting everyone pumped.
He turned his head a bit, taking in everyone's fire-y confidence. Only… someone was missing.
He turned a little further… seeing his little brother hiding behind the group, only a little ways in the brush itself. He was shaking, from both the heat and fear Thor would guess. Clutching Thor's old sword tightly to himself.
He looked so scared.
A small pang of regret filled Thor's heart, but more so… shame. He regretted not listening to his mother and father but he was more ashamed that his own brother couldn't handle something like a hunt.
He was small and weak and nothing like himself. He loved his little brother but wished Loki was big and strong and- and more like everyone else. But he wasn't and Thor wasn't surprised that Loki was bullied.
Of course Thor knew Loki was bullied, how could he not know!? But he knew a little toughening up would do Loki some good. Seeing him now… really just proves that to Thor.
"Br-Brother… I-I I don't think… I don't think this is such a good i-idea…" Loki said, absolutely petrified.
Thor huffed. "Loki. You must get over this childish fear. You are Asgardian, and you must begin to act like one!"
Loki flinched a bit.
"Now come Loki. Time for you to truly act like an Asgardian. Let this hunt begin!" Thor said, turning away from his scared little brother, facing the large boar that stomped in challenge. Thor's friends yelled, ready for the hunt as much as Thor was.
"For Asgard!" Thor yelled, hearing stories of warriors yell this before battle.
"For glory!" Lady Sif joined, raising her sword. Fandral and Hogan raising their sword and mace.
"For a feast!" Volstagg yelled lastly, raising his axe in the air.
They charged and the hunt officially started.
Thor easily landed the first hit, striking the boar right on it's head. The beast roared, raring up and striking down. It didn't hit anything as Thor was already on the move. Sif ran forward, taking the chance to strike while the beast was focused on Thor.
She practically flew, stabbing it's front right leg. Effectively slowing it down. It went down but wasn't out of the fight yet.
Hogan and Volstagg both took their shot. Volstagg went left while Hogan right. The larger of them swung his axe. The boar roared with pain, the axe having caused a large wound in its side. Hogan on the other hand took up with Sifs plan. Smashing its right hind leg. Making the large Boar have no way of moving.
Fandral and Thor were in front of the boar, ready to cause the final strike. Thor with Mjolnir and Fandral with his thin but lethal rapier. Both posed and ready to kill the beast and make Asgard's feast grand tonight.
Only… the beast somehow shot up. Causing Thor and Fandral to stubble back. Hogan, Sif and Volstagg both ran, seeing the danger their friends were in. They knew they wouldn't make it before the boar landed back down, it's large hooves sure to land on either one or both of their heads.
It seemed as if time was running slower to Thor. He saw his friends trying to reach him and Fandral. He looked over, seeing Fandral only watching the hooves that might be his end.
Fear.
Fear was all he felt in that moment.
Fear and the impending death or immense pain he was going to feel.
That was what he was waiting for anyway, until a bright flash took his sight away for a second. The boar hooves were locked in place by an emerald green wrap. A force field was in front of Thor and Fandral. Protecting them from the large beast they were afraid of.
Everyone was still in shock.
The three around the boar were all staring at something and that something was something small in front of Thor.
His eyes drifted down from the large beast… down to see a person with their arms outstretched. Green energy radiation from those small hands.
Loki stood there…
His overcoat, black cloth and lined with green flew with the wind that the green power was causing. A green ring of light circled around Loki. A fierce determination was in his eyes. A determination Thor has never seen in Loki's green eyes.
His black boots were in the ground an inch or two, as if Loki himself was holding the boar's weight. Said weight pushing him down. The gold accents on Loki shone, reflecting the green powers light.
"You leave my brother alone!" He yelled, once he did the power blasted the boar further. "You will leave his friends alone!" Once more the power forced the beast back. "You're mean and it's about time you learn your lesson!" The green wrapped tighter around the boar, making it squeal and it kept on trying to escape.
"You won't hurt anyone ever again!"
The power surged again, a white blinding light once more sparked. Killing the boar immediately. Dropping the body, the green force field fell away and Loki fell to his knees.
His face looked red, the sweat on his face from before returned. The silence that had ran over the fight was broken by panting. Loki looked so tired. "I- I hope this- this made me strong." He said quietly, looking to Thor before falling to his side. Passing out from the heat and… and whatever it was Loki just did.
"Did… did Loki just… perform with seidr?" Volstagg asked, his axe falling to the ground. Shock clear in his face.
"But seidr is only done by women! There is no way- how could Loki- why would he!?" Thor stuttered stepping back from Loki.
"He's an Ergi!" Sif yelled holding her sword in defense from the unconscious boy.
"Calm down! All of you! You know what the queen will do to us if we don't bring Loki back!? What is wrong with all of you!" Fandral yelled looking at each of his friends with shame. He knelt down to Loki, pulling him upward a bit. Using his knee to brace Loki up. He placed his hand on Loki's head. "Oh Norms… he's burning up… We need to get him back before something bad happens to him. Or it's our heads the queen will be after." He said, placing his arm under Loki's knees. Using the other to hold behind Loki's back., hoisting him up.
"Yea- Fandral's right… we should go before the queen starts worrying." Volstagg voiced, following behind the blonde.
Sif huffed but followed as well, Hogan, well he's not much of a talker but walked along.
Thor didn't know what to think… he only numbly walked behind everyone.
"Wait! Loki's hunt! We must not leave it!" Volstagg said, turning around back to the dead boar. Hogan nodded silently, effectively saying 'he will help'. The two went and gathered the boar, it didn't surprise Thor that Volstagg could carry it. That boy would carry anything in the name of food.
It tickets Thor off. That kills. It wasn't- it shouldn't count. It wasn't done right. "It doesn't count. This isn't his hunt…" Thor muttered but no one seemed to notice.
Fandral continued to carry Loki. Sif and the two following behind. Walking back the same path for Asgards palace. Fandral's eyes kept on drifting down, Thor didn't like it.
He didn't like what his brother was more.
An Ergi.
Thor was more than happy that Loki didn't remember that. The shame of his thoughts hunt him now more than ever. When Loki di- when Thanos had gotten to him… the shame of everything he ever thought or said to Loki hunted him.
With Loki being back, as a child no less, it made everything he ever did not leave his mind. He was happy that Loki didn't remember… he would never treat Loki that way again. He prayed to the Norms he could keep that vow.
"What are we to do now?" Valkyrie asked. "Since we have no idea where he is, do we just wait for him to return?"
The pair were sitting on the beach, no reason to keep looking if they know he wasn't anywhere near.
"We wait… There is nothing else for us to do but wait till he returns." Thor answers a little glum.
Valkyrie only laughed a bit.
"He'll come back when he's ready. Or when he finds help,"
"Gets help…" Thor corrected quietly.
"So I'm going back to the house, I need sleep." She said standing up and stretching.
"Alright, good night then Valkyrie." Thor said staying put.
"You're not coming? He's not going to poof here is he?" She asked with an eyebrow raised.
"No… Well Norms only know… but I have always liked the sound of the ocean, Loki- oddly enough- really made me appreciate it. So I will stay here, when he returns, I will know."
She looked out to the ocean's blue waves, softly lit up with the waning almost full light of the moon. She laughed a bit again. "Alright. Night Thor." With that she walked off.
Thor only sat and watched the waves. Listening to the ocean as the night went on.
He will wait.
He will wait for his little brother to return.
