"Freya? Are you ready?" A voice called from the door, and the young woman cursed as she opened her eyes. She had only intended to nap for thirty minutes, but a quick glance at her watch told her she had slept for a few hours. Dragging herself out of bed, she hurried across the organised chaos that was currently her room and answered the door, somewhat surprised to see Hilda waiting for her.

"Ready for what?" Freya asked, feeling very confused as she saw Hilda's beautiful mint Asgardian gown.

"For the feast. I'm sure I mentioned it earlier." Hilda frowned as she took in the state of the mortal woman. "Surely you're not wearing that?" Freya looked down and realised she was still in the clothes she had travelled in.

"Sorry Hilda. It has been a rather long and strange day. Give me a few minutes and I'll be good to go." The Asgardian woman stepped inside while Freya quickly picked a dress from her wardrobe. The one thing she had managed to do after her walk with Loki was to unpack her clothes, and for that she was grateful.

"You have a lovely room." Hilda commented as she looked around, while Freya got changed.

"It is beautiful."

"Did you choose it?"

"No, but I did ask for a nice view and space for bookshelves. Sif seems to like it too."

"Sif?" Hilda was a little confused, but Freya smiled as she gestured to the sleeping cat at the foot of the bed.

"My cat." She explained. "Will I do?" Freya asked as she gave Hilda a twirl. She had chosen one of the dresses she had bought with Astrid yesterday, for it was a plain sapphire blue colour with floral embellishments on the waist and cuffs, and it was both dressy and casual. Hilda just smiled at her friend.

"You will." She told her, watching with some amusement as Freya hunted for some shoes. "We're going to be late if you don't hurry up."

"Where are we going anyway?" The consultant asked, wondering why the woman was in such a rush.

"The great hall."

"It's only downstairs."

"But it was due to start a few minutes ago!" Hilda pointed out as she stroked Sif, and Freya's eyes widened with panic as she realised how bad it would look for her to be late. Settling on a pair of dolly shoes, she grabbed her phone and then hurried towards the door, Hilda close behind her.

Less than a minute later found the pair giggling as they reached the entrance, and Freya was grateful that she did not have to go in on her own. The feast had not yet begun, for there was no sign of Thor or his brother, and so it seemed they would get away with running behind. Going inside, Freya realised that the great hall had once been a grand ballroom, for the walls were covered in intricately carved oak panels, while the ceiling was full of frescoes. Everywhere had Norse influences, and Freya felt the familiar itch of curiosity the moment she saw them. She was desperate to explore her new home and its surroundings, but she knew it would have to wait, for she had a lot of boxes to unpack and work would start soon. The only thing that helped satiate her curiosity for now was the fact that she would be able to look at some of the carvings after food, but that was only if she could escape the dancing. Hilda had already made her promise to join in with the first five, and Freya had no idea how she would be able to keep up. As she walked, though, Freya realised that she had no idea where she would be sitting. There were a number of long tables and benches, and all of them were full of people. Many of them were watching as she walked by, and she felt a little uneasy as she saw a few people whisper to each other about her. Loki had assured her that the gossip would die down quickly, but it did not make it any easier, especially as she was the only human living among the Asgardians.

"Your seat is up there." Hilda explained as she gave a reassuring smile. Freya took one look at the empty seat on the top table and hesitated. "The council sits on the King's table."

"Oh…" Freya supposed it made sense, but she groaned as she saw who she was to sit next to. Ragnar Erikson was deep in conversation with his neighbour, and barely took any notice as she sat down. Freya was at least heartened to see that she was only three seats away from the monarchs, and she hoped that Ragnar would at least remain civil during the meal. She felt like she owed him an apology for losing her temper, but she still could not forget his words to her. However, the hall fell silent as Thor and Loki took their places, and the king gave a welcoming speech before a toast was raised and they all tucked in.


An hour or so later found Freya stuffed. There had been so many platters of different foods and she had been determined to try as much as possible. The mead had helped it all go down, and her head felt a little muzzy from the alcohol, but she had still been able to enjoy the company of those around her. Though she had felt a little out of place at first, she had soon been pulled into conversations and for that she was grateful. There were many stories of battles and home, and there were memories of those who had been lost being shared. Freya was completely enraptured by everyone's innate storytelling abilities, and she almost did not want them to stop. Of course, once the plates were empty, the tables were quickly cleared away and the dancing began. Freya glanced over at Loki and gave him a sympathetic look as she heard Thor, Stark and Banner boast of their escapades as Avengers, before Hilda found her. In an instant she was whisked onto the dancefloor, and she hoped that she could remember the steps.

She need not have worried though. As she danced, Freya found herself being spoken to by many of Hilda's friends, and she was glad to stop and talk properly to a few of them. Many were thanking her already for finding them a home, and Freya was glad that her personal touches had gone down well. She had ensured that every craftsperson had the equipment they needed to continue their work, and that every house had come with information about what things were and how to use them, along with a brief history of the place. The offers of help were also pouring in, and Freya could not help but smile as everyone seemed keen to help her learn about their culture and way of life. By the end of the third song, Freya had plans for every evening between dancing, cooking, and history lessons, while Hilda had promised to help her with Asgardian fashion, and she was excited to learn, for she wanted to know absolutely everything. However, as more offers poured in, Freya was beginning to feel a little overwhelmed, and the moment she saw Ragnar head towards her, she knew she had to make her escape. Making her way to the edge of the room, she hurried towards a door by the top table, and was exceedingly glad to find a balcony.

Here she leant on the stone railings, watching as the birds flew in the evening breeze, and she let herself catch her breath. She felt like she'd had enough already, and yet she had no wish to leave the festivities so soon. She smiled as she heard the muffled cheers and singing through the door, and she felt a small sense of pride as she knew that she was partly responsible for them being here. She just hoped that it had been the right decision to have them settle in an abandoned fishing village, and that it would become home for them soon.

"I had hoped to find you here." A voice spoke as they walked towards her, and Freya sighed as she realised she had not been able to escape completely.

"Believe it or not, I am not hiding. I just needed some fresh air." She said, already on edge, but the Head of the Guilds just offered her a kindly smile.

"The feasts can get rather overwhelming at times, especially if you have not attended them previously." Ragnar agreed, which confused her, for he had never agreed with her before. "I am glad you did not listen to me."

"What?" Freya was even more confused now.

"I owe you an apology Freya Wilkes." He stated. "I had believed that you were chosen purely because of your history with our Prince, but I can see now the fruits of your work, and I have to admit I am impressed."

"Is that praise?" She asked, surprised.

"I truly had no idea that you had such limited time, or that you felt so strongly about our interests. Hilda has told me just how eager you have been to learn, and I have not given you a fair chance." He continued, and Freya sighed.

"I am truly sorry that you believed that I was working for my own gain. I am only human, and I cannot promise that I will get everything right, but I will do what I can to help you all acclimatise."

"And now I understand just why they chose you." He smiled. "I can see that you have a temper, but your compassion and determination shine through. That is truly a rare trait, especially in mortals."

"Is that a compliment?" Freya asked as she quirked an eyebrow.

"I wouldn't get used to them." He shrugged, before they laughed.

"Can we start afresh then please?" She asked after a moment, while he nodded.

"I think that may be for the best." He said, and Freya was glad that they had cleared the air. "You have much to learn, but I can see that your heart is in the right place."

"It is." She agreed. "Where do you suggest I begin?"

"For a start, something must be done about your clothes."

"I know, but I don't have anything similar to your gowns." She explained.

"Then we shall simply have to ask Hilda to sort you out with something." Freya could not help but smile at the suggestion, for she had no doubt that Hilda would be keen to spend as much time as possible with her. The Asgardian's thirst for knowledge of Earth matched Freya's desire to learn about Asgard, and she was certain they would be spending a lot of time together over the following months.

"I mean, only if she would not mind. I have no…"

"You are far too modest for an ambassador." Ragnar stated, and Freya was not sure if that was a bad thing.

"I'm merely a consultant." She corrected. "Even now I cannot believe I am here."

"Neither can I." He smiled. "Thank you, Freya."

"You're welcome, Ragnar." She returned his smile as he headed back inside.

By this point the Sun was setting, causing the sky to be full of varying shades of oranges and yellows. The birds were singing happily away, and she could hear the crashing of waves nearby, which only added to her contentment. Though the day had started off stressful, the afternoon had turned it into a better one, and she could not wait to explore. Though her doubts were still present, she knew that she could not let them win, especially after everything she had done to get here. She just hoped that the job would be worth sacrificing everything she knew, and that she would learn quickly. She knew she would inevitably make mistakes, for that was part of starting any new job, and she had no idea if she would make any other friends, although she was glad that she at least had Hilda.

Hearing the music change pace inside, she was reminded of her dance with Loki just over a week ago, and she wondered just how much their friendship would change now that they were working together. She had no doubt that they would not be able to continue as they had been, and she had no wish to add to the rumour mill, but she dearly hoped they could remain friends. She had missed the God of Mischief while she was away, for he made things interesting, and he had quite happily indulged her curiosity. She had rather enjoyed working with him to find a new settlement, for it had felt quite natural, and she knew she owed her new role to him. To be perfectly honest, Freya thought, she would not even be alive if it was not for him. When she had found the sceptre as a student, she had never truly believed that she would meet the handsome Trickster, and yet now… Well, she got to work with him.

Freya knew that the choice of office was probably Loki's doing. Freya was certain that she had been given the best one, and she idly wondered if anyone else had their own private garden. It had not escaped her notice that her little patch was full of her favourite flowers, some of which were not native to Norway, and only one person would know which ones she liked. Her heart fluttered a little at the thought, but she quickly dismissed it, for surely it was just another thing to keep her here. After all, if she was happy, then she would not want to leave.

She had no doubt that it was his way of trying to persuade her to stay, but she wondered if there were any other motivations behind it. She had no idea if it was his way of apologising, but it did help ease her anger towards him. Though there was no denying that she had missed him, she had not quite forgiven him for leaving her behind in Wakanda. She was still hurt that he had broken his word to her, and that he had left without even saying goodbye. She had truly believed him to be more than his reputation, and yet he had simply cast her aside without a second thought. He had since assured her that it was to keep her safe, and she could somewhat understand that, but it did nothing to silence the small doubt that told her he was using her for his own ends. Though he claimed that he had not expected her to fight for his freedom, it had been pretty evident from the moment he had landed in her room that she would fight for justice. It had also been clear that she would give help to anyone who needed it, and she was starting to wonder if she was truly here of her own accord, or if this was part of some bigger plan...


The God of Mischief had finally had enough of the boasts from Thor and his fellow Avengers, for he had no wish to be reminded of his defeat in New York, especially in front of his subjects. Had they met in other circumstances, Loki had the suspicion that he and Stark would have become quite good friends, but he was rather wary around Banner. Although he enjoyed teasing the scientist, he could not forget the fact that the Hulk was just a few wrong words away, and the Trickster had no wish to be bashed about like a ragdoll ever again. Therefore, he looked for some means of escape other than the bottom of his mead cup, and he slipped in among the dancing Asgardians, hoping to enjoy himself.

However, his people would not stop asking him questions, and his stamina was not quite what it used to be. He was still recovering from his encounter with Thanos and the Infinity Stones, and though he was almost healed, he still needed to rest. After the third or fourth round, he needed a break, and that was when he saw Ragnar stepping back inside. Loki frowned then, for he knew that there had to be only one reason why the Head of the Guilds had been on the balcony. A glance around the room confirmed it, for there was no sign of the mortal woman, and he sighed, for he knew that this could not be a good thing. He knew that Freya was in a rather fragile state after the morning's events, and he had no wish for her confidence to be broken by the weaver. Swearing quietly with frustration, Loki headed outside.


Freya had eventually distracted herself from her thoughts by concentrating on the view in front of her, and she knew just how lucky she was to be in such a beautiful place. For just a few moments she allowed herself to forget all her worries, and she sighed contentedly as she heard the Asgardians singing inside. Truly she had never believed that she would get to live with the people she had spent most of her life studying, and yet here she was…

"I could stay here forever…" She murmured, unaware of the door opening.

"That was the plan." Loki whispered in response, though Freya did not hear him. The Prince smiled as he saw how peaceful she looked, and he wondered if Ragnar had truly spoken to her, for he had expected to do some damage control. However, the woman did not seem even the slightest bit upset, and he felt like he was intruding as she contemplated things. He was about to leave when she noticed him though, and she smiled warmly at him, like she always did.

"Have you escaped too sire?" Freya asked playfully, and this confused him even more.

"Something like that." He paused, frowning at the term of address she had used. He had never heard her use it with him before, and he was not sure he liked it, for Freya was not one of his subjects. "It is unlike you to run."

"I needed some air. It was a little overwhelming and…" She explained, but he knew what she was meaning. "Does every feast turn out like this?"

"Mostly." He replied. "It is not like anything you have seen?"

"They're just like I imagined." She admitted as she tucked a stray curl behind her ear. "Sire, I have some questions about the role. Can we…"

"You can stop calling me sire for one." He told her as he joined her on the railings. "You never did before, and you certainly don't have to start now after everything we have been through. My friends call me Loki."

"And you would class me as a friend?" Freya asked, a little hopeful.

"I would." He assured her, surprised at the question.

"I'm honoured." Freya smiled, before elaborating. "I just wanted to check, because everyone else… Well, I have no wish to cause any offence, and I know that I have a lot to learn."

"There is plenty of time for that." He said as he turned his gaze to the sunset. It was certainly beautiful, even if it was nothing compared to those of Asgard. "If you wish, I can teach you about what is expected of a councillor."

"Good luck finding a time I'm free." She laughed, though she was grateful of the offer, while he was a little confused. "Hilda and many others have already booked my evenings for the next few months."

"They are teaching you as well?"

"The offers won't stop coming." She sighed, and he chuckled.

"It seems you have made quite the impression."

"I'm hoping it was a good one. Ragnar has certainly changed his tune."

"I had noticed he had been out here. What did he say?" He asked curiously, while the mortal woman smiled.

"He apologised, and we have agreed to wipe the slate clean, so to speak."

"I knew you would change his mind." Loki was pleased.

"I have no idea how." Freya paused. "I think Saturday mornings have not yet been taken, if they suit you?"

"I'll take it." He decided. "You are going to be quite a busy woman."

"I would rather be busy than not." She pointed out, before looking up at him. "I owe so much to you Loki. I truly have no idea how I can ever repay you."

"You owe me nothing Freya." He told her. "If anything, I am in your debt."

"I have only done what I would do for any of my friends." She told him truthfully. The pair were quiet for a few moments, for they knew that everything would change when work started. Loki was happy to stay in companionable silence as the stars made their first appearance, while Freya contemplated the nature of friendship between mortals and gods. If the stories were anything to go by, then there were bound to be tears at the end, but she had no doubt that the heartache would be worth it. However, the silence was broken by the appearance of Hilda, and Freya gave Loki an apologetic smile as she realised she still had a promise to keep.

"Can I steal Freya please sire?" Hilda asked, while the Prince nodded.

"Just don't wear her out!" Loki instructed, but the Asgardian woman just grinned.

"I make no promises sire." Hilda stated, before whisking Freya back inside. Having a feeling that the Midgardian might need rescuing at some point, he followed them back into the hall, and smiled as he was instantly joining in with the celebrations once more.