Apologies for the long wait my lovelies.
It is so funny to see how much hatred there is for Odin out there hahahaha. In the reviews, every detail of his actions was scrutinized and it made me laugh so hard. You guys are the best! I like Odin quite a bit, so I guess I am the minority? :D
I took a few random quotes from the Marvel movies in this because I felt they fit the moment :)
With Loki unconscious, the Frost Giant's chain of command appeared to fall to the two Jotuns acting as his guards. One stayed with their king and the other disappeared out into the crowd of soldiers. The one who remained nearby was complying with Odin and Valder's decisions without issue. As the kings rallied people to help relocate the fallen Outrider bodies from near the women and children, he brought in Frost Giants to do the same.
Frigga had tentatively, and reluctantly, left her younger son's side to resume her vigil by the Tesseract. Thor could see that she was intently focused on something he couldn't sense or see.
Once Eira had confirmed Loki was out of immediate danger, at least from the poison, Odin and Svleiva left as well. Thor knew his father was livid with him for having stayed silent when he knew Loki was gravely injured. But, the king was keeping it in check right now for the sake of the battle. The younger son had made his own decision. There was no virtue in placing blame elsewhere.
The God of Thunder hesitantly went to assist the others in moving the dead Outriders. He could see his younger brother where he lay and just shook his head incredulously that their lives had taken them here.
"Ask them if the others have located Nebula." Odin said after him with a glance.
Thor nodded swiftly. He called to Hawkeye as he approached.
"Should we calm down Banner to bring him in?" Hena asked her parents. Her eyebrows were furrowed thoughtfully. The green monster was still running the battlefield and attacking every enemy in sight. He wasn't slowing in the least.
"I believe as long as he has a target for his anger, he won't tire." Valder responded, though his voice was a bit repulsed.
"He is big and mean. I do not like him. Don't bring him back by us." Mazi requested adamantly. Svleiva brushed a hand by her daughter's lips to quiet her. The girl scowled and folded her arms, but she cooperated.
"Bionic woman? Bionic woman, where art thou?" Tony asked.
He flew about a hundred feet above Captain America, scanning the ground to try and find Nebula. She disappeared quickly once she'd left their base. Searching for Ebony is what she was likely to start with, but the others expected that she would soon go after Thanos herself.
"Bleeding out yet, Rogers?"
The soldier's head tilted up momentarily, hoping his friend could catch his annoyed look.
"Do you see her yet, Stark?" he asked in return.
"Hena would be so proud of our formality." Tony responded. Assuming the question to be a return taunt rather than an actual query, he didn't answer. The two of them were headed for the God of Death himself as that had clearly been Nebula's intended destination, despite her claim that it was Ebony.
"So, I've kind of come up with my own plan for what we're going to do if we find her, but I think this one time it might be best if we're on the same page." Tony spoke again.
"Try to stop her." Captain America broke in "She's not doing this to help us, she's doing it because she hates Thanos."
Tony pulled to a stop and scanned the surrounding area "Well, I feel like if she's handling things alright, we may as well help her. Or just let her die I guess."
"She's Loki's ally. And I suppose ours by extension now." Captain America reminded him.
"So, our old enemy who became our friend has an enemy that is actually a friend and now she's our friend too even though she acts like an enemy."
The soldier held back a sad laugh, a surprising sound at this point in the battle.
"Damn, the Avengers is a lot more complicated than Fury initially made it seem." Tony commented. His eyebrows rose "Hey, you remember Cull, right?"
Eyes rolling, Captain America just waited for him to continue.
"Well, just to jog your memory, he's a big rock man and he's headed for our friends over there."
Though it was hard to see through the thick fighting, a path was being cleared for the Black Order member. Outriders were lining up on either side of it to ensure that he could easily make his way through.
"I'll call it into Hawkeye. I want to find Nebula out here."
Though he didn't show it, Tony was vaguely surprised at the dedication to their task. The only person that should be concerned with Nebula's wellbeing was Loki.
"Do you know her from your time as a popsicle?"
"I just want to stop her from getting herself killed."
This was true. He'd always had the innate sense of duty to keep others safe, yet this time it was slightly different. He had never gotten close to someone like Loki before this point. And it had struck a nerve to see the man so weak and yet still begging for anybody to go after a woman he considered to be his friend.
"She isn't by Thanos. At least not that I can see." Tony said. He flew up sharply to avoid a sudden hail of fire coming towards him. It was too late to avoid them entirely, so a few struck him on the lower leg and made him spin.
"Shit!" he cursed.
"Language." Captain America replied without thinking about what he was saying. Hoping the billionaire hadn't heard it, he nonchalantly continued running. The man in the suit painstakingly gained back his bearings. After a few moments of silence between them, he spoke.
"Are we both going to pretend like you didn't just say 'language'?"
"I know, I know." the soldier responded in irritation.
"Alright, just checking." Tony confirmed.
"Do you see something that looks like Ebony's description?"
The evasive creature was beginning to seem like a myth. Loki and Nebula had given the group a description, but it was going to be difficult to find him in a crowd of unusual looking beings.
"No. Nebula could be already with him and we wouldn't know. I don't think there is a lot more to be...accomplished out here. Much to my mortal dismay."
"I think you're probably right." Captain America replied with a sigh.
"How is he?" Hena asked Eira quietly. It had not been long, but she had to ask, if only to calm her nerves.
The young woman glanced up. She was around the same age as Thor and her. Still young, but she had gained the ability to stay calm in the type of situations she had been faced with thus far.
"He fairs well for now. He is still quite weak and I suspect there will be internal damage to be dealt with when he returns to Asgard. I know nothing of this toxin in his blood. That is what worries me. I cannot pull it from his body entirely without risking more harm on him." she said "If it returns and causes him to hemorrhage again, I am fearful of the outcome."
Hena looked over at the palace that was her home. They could not get him there safely for treatment with the current situation they faced.
"Should we move him to Asgard now?" she asked.
"Odin is having a transport prepared." the healer nodded.
A loud rumble in the distance made both of them instinctively duck. Hena's head snapped back up, eyes wide.
"No. No no no." Svleiva murmured anxiously, having one of the guards take Mazi as she quickly joined her husband at the top of the hill.
"Was it one of them? Were they near any of our men?" she demanded.
"I believe it was one of Outriders, yes. I did not see directly where it went off." Valder responded, staying calm for her sake.
"That will be your one and only warning." Proxima said coldly. She had stayed silent as Loki collapsed and simply watched as they struggled to save him. That was one of the vilest actions Hena had seen yet. If Nebula had known how to save him, she imagined the rest of the Black Order would know as well.
"We have two of Thanos' personal servants approaching together." Heimdall's voice was low enough to evade Proxima's ear. Odin stepped closer to his watchman. When Captain America and Tony had returned, they had mentioned Cull. Yet, if it had been true that the largest members of the Black Order was heading their way earlier, he should have arrived much sooner than this.
"We have seen both of them. Corvus Glaive and Obsidian Cull." Heimdall continued, his sword clasped calmly between both hands. The warning came rather abruptly, which was unusual for him. His vision was still restricted in many areas "They're not fighting anyone around them thus far."
"They may be approaching to negotiate for her." Odin replied, referring to Proxima.
"Loki!" there came a shout and the Allfather had his answer. He glanced back at the God of Mischief, who still appeared to be deep in sleep. Proxima smiled.
"Who is that?" Frigga asked warily.
"I believe that is Corvus." Heimdall responded.
"Loki, we have a negotiation to hold!" surprisingly, the tone did not sound angry, but rather inviting.
Odin immediately ascended the ridge until he was in sight of the two members of the Black Order. Noticeably, they called to Loki rather than either of the other two kings, assuming him to be the one who would answer to them. After all, Thanos was angry with him and not Odin or Valder.
"Halt where you are." Asgard's king said forcefully.
The pair obliged and a small number of Outriders crawled forward to sit guard around them.
"Greetings, Odin." a literal growl rumbled in Corvus' throat after he spoke.
"What negotiations do you bring to take place here?" Odin matched their calm and sinister voice. But Thor knew his long-suffering patience had been worn thin.
"Thanos has...a proposition for all of you." the creature continued "I would prefer to give it to Loki in person."
"You may give it to me." Odin responded.
Corvus shifted his jaw in a sneer, but he continued to speak anyway. Hena scowled at him, eyes scrutinizing his every move.
"The Almighty asks that you to give up Loki to him. And in return, he is going to withdraw his army and leave Anaheim. You may continue your lives in...peace." he ended the word with a hiss.
Hena's indignation was made perfectly clear as her mouth opened and she straightened as if to object.
"I'm sure Loki would be more than willing." Corvus said and his eyes narrowed "Because otherwise we are going to detonate every bomb we have attached to our soldiers. There will be a lot more death. And it will be on his hands. If he is so loyal to this...family...he should have no dilemma."
"There will be no bargain made with his life." Odin replied coldly.
"Thanos doesn't intend to kill him." Corvus responded smoothly. He raised his voice "Do you hear me, Loki? Do you hear our offer? Give yourself up and we'll spare your family. We'll spare this realm and its inhabitants."
"Enough." Odin warned as Svleiva looked back anxiously, hoping Loki had not caught a word of it.
"We will give you a few minutes to think on this offer." Corvus ignored the king now "You brought this on them, Loki, the least you can do is not let them suffer for your own sins."
Odin waved Gungnir vertically and the two of Thanos' servants were forced back by a wave of magical energy.
The guards holding cautious swords and spears towards Proxima in the event that she tried to warn her husband of Loki's condition, lowered them. Though she hadn't said anything, her face was bemused. Corvus and Cull withdrew without another word.
Hena held back a scathingly comment about the man's commitment to his captured wife.
Odin hailed his lead soldier over quickly.
"The men need to stay clear of the Outriders as best they are able. I do not know how long they are going to wait for Loki to present himself. I will speak with Thanos personally."
Frigga looked at him worriedly, but her husband was not focused on her.
"They may be deceiving us. He would not want to lose his entire Outrider army for this. We have many more allies than him. This would harm him more than aid." Svleiva said, her voice soft with anxiety.
"I am not going to risk losing a great number of our men, even if it would help in defeating Thanos." Valder replied. He turned to an unexpected commotion behind them.
Loki had woken and already made his way towards them. The healers, who had momentarily left his side, now followed him with sharp protests. He walked with a limp and pain in every step. His face was drained of color and twisted into a grimace.
"Loki, what are you doing?" Thor demanded as Frigga quickly hurried forward.
Odin rotated to stand firmly in the Jotun king's path. He held out his hands both as a warning and a precautionary measure in case the man lost his balance.
"Loki, no. You are too weakened to go back. Return to the healers. NOW." he ordered with a point.
"It seems as though I was summoned." Loki responded dryly, with much more vigor than expected "And I should be the one to respond."
"Because you think there could be virtue in giving yourself up to Thanos if he leaves Anaheim? There is not." Odin said, his voice sharp "Go back and let them heal you."
"There certainly would be virtue if he intends to obliterate half of our armies. He wants me to face him and I will. He'll need something to pacify him."
"He's doing this to draw you in!" Hena spoke angrily as Loki attempted to walk past his adopted father. But Odin took hold of his arm swiftly.
"If that is what he needs, then I will go and speak with him. There-"
"He doesn't want you he wants me!" Loki spat back, pulling away closer to the battlefield. Odin blinked at him in surprise as the God of Mischief heaved in breaths.
"You're not going in my place." he growled. He backed up, staring down his father with just slightly widened eyes "What the hell have you done to him?"
Then he turned and sprinted up the ridge.
"Loki!" Odin shouted, turning after him.
Valder jerked to grab the man's wrist and pull him to a stop, but Loki ripped his arm away furiously and kept running.
Thor changed the grip on his hammer, ready to spin it and fly right after his brother. Valder stood, watching in angry exasperation.
Odin turned around and walked towards his cavalry group.
"Come." he said to Frigga with a beckon.
"I will, husband." she said, her voice tight with anxiety. Yet, she sounded vaguely excited as well.
"Valhalla has arrived. They will hold off the rest of Thanos' army while we go after Loki."
Odin paused briefly, head pulling back as he pondered on the thought of facing the members of the afterlife realm. Then he nodded, took hold of his horse and mounted it.
Frigga squinted down at the Tesseract as the blue energy around it began to swirl. Immediately, she hurried to her husband and joined him atop the horse.
"You stay." Valder told Svleiva. His queen drew in a breath, attention going to Hena worriedly.
"I'm going too." her daughter said firmly "I'll be alright."
So, Svleiva stepped back to Mazi, putting both hands on her youngest daughter's shoulders. She held any emotion back.
"Protect them. Please." Valder said, gazing intently at the Warriors and mortals who remained.
"We will." Volstagg replied sincerely with a dip of his head.
Loki winced as he came to a stop about halfway across the battlefield. His two Frost Giant guards had quickly caught up with him as he ran into the battle. They were sticking closer to him than before as they had seen him collapse earlier and could sense his weakness now. But, they didn't try to stop him from leaving. They were simply there to make sure that no harm came upon him in the meantime.
Loki could see Thanos from his vantage point, which was why he had slowed. The Titan was waiting calmly about one hundred yards away, surrounded by his servants. The area around him was clear of Asgardians and any of the other realm's soldiers. His eyes were narrowed to slits as he watched the Jotunheim king.
Corvus and Cull waited nearby and finally, Loki saw the infamous Ebony Maw. He was right by Thanos, his fingers intertwined and expression satisfied.
The younger son of Odin continued his way forward.
"There are too many of them for the three of us to hold off alone." one of the Frost Giants by his side warned him.
"I agree. Which is why neither of you are joining me in there." Loki replied.
"Yes, we will." was the immediate response.
"No. I will order both of you to stay here if you won't do it voluntarily."
The two Jotuns shared a glance. Loki's pace didn't slow and he pulled in front of them. He was still limping and blood seeped from the cut Nebula had inflicted on his wrist.
The battle was still raging around them, but his focus was solely on the God of Death.
"You look a little worse for wear, Loki." Thanos said, his voice soft and menacing "Are you here to surrender? Or is this just another one of your ploys?"
"I'm truly offended you don't know me well enough to answer that question for yourself." Loki replied, his voice calm even though his posture was not "I could say either option and you would still believe I was trying to deceive you."
"I will say that my respect for you has grown. You've impressed me with what you've managed to pull off. And now, you have another chance to do the same. Throw down your weapons. Get on your knees. If we take you without issue, I'll leave Anaheim."
Corvus and Ebony began to approach him, but Loki let his knives slip into his hands. The scepter was currently nowhere to be seen.
"This does not seem to be the typical surrender. On your knees. Now." Thanos said, brandishing the gauntlet threateningly.
"I'll die a thousand times before I lower myself to you again." Loki replied haughtily.
"Then Anaheim can burn." the Titan admonished. An Asgardian horn sounded and caught his attention. He looked beyond the God of Mischief and his expression suddenly changed.
Loki didn't dare look back and away from the enemies in front of him, but the side of his mouth curved up. His legs were beginning to feel shaky from the effort of standing and he could see spots forming over his eyes. He knew he could potentially collapse at any moment.
Members of Valhalla flooded into Anaheim. All of them had the same white glow that Frigga eminated and while many were recognizable as Asgardians, there were beings from all different realms. Even Frost Giants. They sprinted onto the battlefield towards Thanos' followers, weapons raised.
Magic overwhelmed the Outriders and the explosives on many of them that came in contact with the resurrected soldiers were destroyed without imploding on themselves.
Loki's fingers pressed to his temples and he instantly dropped to his knees as Thanos aimed the power of the gauntlet towards him.
"You're going to die alone, Laufeyson!" the Titan snarled at him. The takeover of Anaheim was more than lost, but he wanted to ensure that they paid dearly for it. Beside him, Ebony smiled, fingers pressing together triumphantly. Corvus quickly began to walk over to retrieve their prize.
Loki trembled in agony, muscles tensing and convulsing as he fought the control being forced on him. But he was already weak from his previous injuries and had no strength to free himself.
Then, as Valhalla would have it, Mjolnir flew over him and smashed right into the glowing gauntlet. Thanos spun with the force of the blow, bringing his fist in protectively.
Loki stayed where he was for a few moments, breathing in as the few tears that had formed in his eyes fell. Then he pushed himself to his feet and pulled his knives back out.
Ebony raised his hands and formed and lifted a mass of debris. The God of Mischief narrowed his eyes as he prepared to cast an illusive image. Cull and Corvus moved in sync as they joined their friend in attack.
But, the approach was abruptly stopped as Odin broke off Ebony's power.
Loki looked back and found that both of his adoptive parents were there. Valder, Hena, and several of his brother's mortal friends had come as well. Thor landed beside him, hammer lifted above his head.
"You think he's alone?" he demanded of Thanos. Fighting a smile, Loki stared over at his former commander.
Odin continued to hold Gungnir tilted towards Ebony Maw. The ugly creature showed no surprise, just disdain.
"Your attempt to overrun my realm is at an end." Valder said, cool and collected.
Thanos didn't react right off, but his eyes were unintentionally flicking between all of the warriors surrounding him. Then, without warning, each of his Black Order servants launched themselves into the fight as if given a silent command. Corvus rushed Hena, while Cull ran at Thor and Loki. Valder instinctively moved to defend his daughter and therefore was the one to engage in combat.
Surprisingly, Ebony Maw waited several moments before walking forward. He continuously kept another person in between him and Odin, wary of Gungnir's power. The king was using his own power to hinder the creature's, but Ebony could still attack physically.
Loki quickly maneuvered around Cull, leaving him to Thor and running at Thanos instead. Frigga darted after him.
"Where's your daughter?" the God of Mischief asked, circling the Titan.
"Which one?" Thanos asked, a long double-edged sword now in his hand.
"Oh, you have more than one? I wouldn't have been able to tell that."
"Because you're the Nebula of your family? Have you noticed that the ones like her are always the traitors? Perhaps that's why you and her have never lived up to your older siblings standards."
"Don't listen to him, Loki." Frigga muttered from his side and her youngest jumped as if shocked by her presence.
"You've toyed with our son long enough. And now it is time for you to be judged on Valhalla's terms." Frigga continued, staring the monster in front of her dead in the eyes.
"Allmother, you're out of your depth here." Thanos said.
"I don't think I am." she responded boldly "But you most certainly are."
"Where is Nebula, Thanos?" Loki asked, his fingers squeezing together tightly as his mother was addressed.
"If you've misplaced her, that's not my concern."
"Loki!" that was Odin's warning as Ebony Maw moved in. The queen of Asgard and king of Jotunheim drew back into fighting stances.
"Bow to the Almighty." the servant invited calmly.
Several yards away, Thor and Captain America tussled with Cull and Valder and Hena with Corvus.
Thanos looked at the Allfather of the Nine Realms. Gungnir was among one of the most powerful objects to exist and it could likely stand up against multiple Infinity Stones. Odin partially lost his restraint on Ebony Maw as the Power Stone began to glow. But, instead of pulling back, Loki dove right in.
Hena watched him for the split second that she had before Corvus attacked her again. Now that his illusions were down, she could sense the weakness lingering. With a quick blink, she reached out with her powers and strengthened him.
Cull grabbed Thor by the arm opposite to the one holding Mjolnir and hurled him to the side. Captain America threw his shield to distract him, but was punched back just the same.
Then the giant creature turned to the those closest to him. Frigga tried to warn Loki, but Ebony was coming after her in that moment.
The God of Mischief whirled around as he heard Cull approaching. Normally he would have cast himself away, but his magic was too suppressed. He had no choice but to try and dodge the beast. Just as he was doing so, another roar brought all of the fighting to a halt.
The Hulk landed in between Cull and Loki and let out another thunderous howl. Having lowered himself down closer to the ground at the sound, the Silvertongue stood back up warily. But, their green monster stood in front of him protectively and screamed at the Black Order member. He leaped at Cull, taking on the foe for himself.
The citizens of Valhalla were more than overtaking Thanos' army. The Titan began to back up towards his portal. But when he looked back, he realized that the amount of his creatures entering the realm had decreased significantly.
"You really shouldn't have misplaced your daughter." Loki said, holding out his hands in an innocent shrug "Perhaps then your portal wouldn't be closing."
For the first time, Thanos's eyes just widened.
Ebony lifted thousands of rock shards from the ground and shot them forward.
Without a word, Frigga and Loki both manipulated the air in front of them and sent the pieces flying back. They disintegrated before reaching the God of Death.
But, other objects began hurtling at them. Corvus abandoned his cause with Hena and Valder.
Thor crouched where he was, extending his arm to call Mjolnir back. She came instantly and he summoned lightening from the sky with a loud yell. Throwing it towards Thanos, he watched as the Titan just barely held it off with the single Infinity Stone that he possessed.
Ebony turned his attention to the God of Thunder specifically. He forced him backwards with a burst of unseeable energy.
Loki's eyes narrowed. He could feel Hena using her powers towards him. They would not be able to get to Thanos while Ebony was in the way. He looked behind him at his adopted father with a swift glance. Receiving a nodded confirmation, he then ran forward.
For a brief moment, Frigga was utterly confused, but she quickly caught on to her son's intentions.
Ebony Maw stopped the God of Mischief in his tracks. He knew the man well enough to recall that his personal powers were much more restricted when it came to the Jotun in front of him.
Loki focused harder and begin to slowly continue his way forward, pushing through the paralyzing hex being used on him. Corvus stayed in his position by Thanos, but he was watching the events like a hungry wolf. If the opportunity arose, he would take the Silvertongue without hesitation.
Then Frigga joined her son, using the same incantation to shield herself from being physically controlled.
Ebony narrowed his eyes as the two of them approached together. Alone, the God of Mischief would have been relatively easy to apprehend between Corvus and Thanos. Now he shifted his power equally over both of them.
"Go in." Odin ordered at the others arround him.
Thor and Captain America fell in step together within seconds. Valder and Hena were quick to follow.
Ebony, forced to prevent the them from converging in on him, let go of Loki and Frigga. Immediately, they took the chance to close ground between them and Thanos until the power was reasserted.
The Titan glanced behind him and found that the Frost Giant army was beginning to gather. His own warriors were largely dead and the Nine Realms now had no other enemy to fight but him. Valhalla had made sure of that.
As Frigga and Loki repeated the process, Thanos decided to attack them first. Ebony left them for that and now tried to focus his attention on the others.
Following his strategy, the younger son of Odin changed his course and instead went for the very creature who had just turned from him. Knocking Ebony to the side, he was then thrown back by the creature's powers. But the small shift in position gave Odin his chance. With a single blast of bright energy from Gungnir, Ebony Maw was dead.
Corvus backed off with a growl in his throat, eyes widened. The next shot from Odin's staff went right for Thanos. The God of Death countered it, though that took his attention from Frigga for now.
Thor immediately took flight and landed by his mother's side, despite the fact that she was not in any true mortal danger and never could be again. He blocked an oncoming strike from Thanos' sword with his hammer and then spun to mimic it.
"This is for everything you've ever done to my brother." he spat through gritted teeth.
"He's not your brother!" Thanos replied forcefully as he shoved Thor back.
"We've got some bonding to do." Loki's voice reappeared a few yards away. This time, he had the scepter in hand. In his Fury, the Titan mistakenly left himself open to such an attack. One fire from the weapon and he was down.
Loki stayed where he was as the dust and debris in the air took their time to settle. Odin had drawn closer, along with the members of Anaheim.
Thanos breathed deeply from his hands and knees before slowly standing up and turning back around. He peered at the God of Mischief.
Valder, one step ahead of Hena, watched warily. He wasn't sure whether to expect a surrender or negotiation at this point.
"If I'm going to die here, Laufeyson, then I deserve to take at least one thing with me." Thanos said softly.
The moment the attention shifted to the woman standing behind Valder, an involuntary yell of fury escaped Loki and he leapt forward, wielding the scepter.
The God of Death retaliated. The courtyard filled with sudden energy and light as every one of Loki's ally's engaged at the same moment.
The only thing that could be heard was the sound of Thor's lightning being projected forward. The God of Thunder barely registered what he was doing until he stopped. Gungnir's power was retracted a second after. And then it fell silent and the air was oddly still.
"Loki!" Hena called. The smoke hung around them as if suspended magically. Thor took a few wary steps forward.
Frigga blinked as she saw movement and then her younger son backing towards her slowly. He didn't seem to be able to take his eyes from the scene in front of him.
Thanos was on the ground several yards away. The scepter protruded from his still form.
Thor lowered his hammer. He'd never seen the results of every member in his family using their powers at once, but he was glad he hadn't been on the receiving end.
Hena let out a shuddering breath of relief and her father pulled her into an embrace.
Corvus Glaive stood from his crouched position and Loki tilted his head with a squint. He was the last free Black Order member. The Hulk had taken care of Cull.
After a few moments of waiting, Corvus spoke in a growl.
"Just take me to Proxima."
"Gladly." Loki replied coldly. He turned slightly and indicated the direction the creature should walk.
Thor exhaled slowly as he watched, trying to come to terms with the fact that the battle was truly over. Soldiers from many different realms moved in to flock Corvus as he willingly surrendered himself to them.
The God of Thunder helped Loki back to their base where Svleiva and Mazi were waiting. Upon arrival, the queen finally released the emotion she'd been holding in. She hugged her husband for several long moments, tears free flowing down her cheeks.
Loki was taken straight to the healers without complaint. Eira gave him a fierce, but charitable scolding.
To their surprise, Nebula was there waiting for them as well. She said nothing, but gave a nod to the God of Mischief as he was quickly reexamined.
"Didn't think you'd be clever enough to try closing his escape route." he said, exhausted.
"Well, I knew you'd be stupid enough to do what you did. You're lucky people came after you." Nebula replied. She switched her attention and eyed Corvus and Proxima hatefully.
"You have our thanks." Odin said neutrally, addressing her directly "He likely would have made his way from Anaheim without you."
Nebula said nothing, her face expressionless as if she was not sure how to respond. Instead, she paused and then slowly dipped her head.
The Asgardian king then joined his wife in speaking with the departing members of Valhalla. A large portion of them had already returned to their world.
Thor looked among them to see whom he recognized, if any. There were many Frost Giants in the group and he still found that a bit jarring. Yet, he was happy to see that Valhalla judged beings differently than they did in the living world.
"We made it."
He turned to his friend approaching. Tony walked up to him, still in his damaged suit.
"This is going to be one hell of a community clean up." the mortal commented.
"Asgard will lend aid. And many other realms I believe." Thor leaned to see Hawkeye reunite with Laura and his kids. The woman had her arms around her husband as Lila, Cooper, and Nathaniel clamored around them. Hena watched the same, a faint smile on her face.
"We've never had so many realms here at one time!" Mazi announced to everyone within earshot.
Svleiva hushed her quickly, though then she picked up her daughter to show that she didn't mean to be stern. The little girl wasn't old enough to understand the losses from their realms and others. Their soldiers were gathering the fallen as they spoke.
Valder directed the men, even those from the Nine Realms. Their task at hand wasn't an easy one, but the overall feeling in the realm was triumph and relief.
A shortwhile later, Frigga returned to the group. Odin followed, but instead left her side and went to stand by Thor to face her. Loki watched for a moment and then stepped away from the healers. They did not object as they saw that the Asgardian queen stood as if ready to say something. They followed him from behind to ensure someone would be there to catch him if he fell. Everyone stood solemnly.
"Are you leaving?" Mazi asked in a high pitched question.
Frigga smiled at her. The question broke the tension that was in the air.
"Yes, little one. Unfortunately, I must. I'll keep an eye on you though, don't worry of that."
Svleiva lovingly put one hand on the back of her daughter's head as the queen turned to her immediate family. Her eyes swept over Odin and Thor and continued until they landed on Loki. Though he had dutifully come to see her off, he still could not quite meet her eyes.
Thor's eyebrows creased as he noticed, utterly confused.
Frigga walked over to her youngest son. Her husband and other child were just feet away, but her gaze was all for him.
"Loki, look at me." she said quietly. She took both of his hands and then gently turned them over so that she could grasp his fingers with hers. The God's eyes flicked up once and then back away. With a deep breath, he finally lifted them to look at her fully.
"You seek my forgiveness for the words you said to me that day." Frigga said tenderly, with a small shake of her head. Her expression held nothing but love "My precious son, there was nothing to forgive." she squeezed his hands "You tormented yourself for months after I left you. The one thing I wished I could have done before I joined Valhalla was tell you...that it was alright. That I was not angry or upset."
Loki stared at his mother with a trembling jaw, tears just barely beginning to slide down his cheeks.
"You mean everything to me." Frigga continued earnestly "You did not deserve any of what Thanos did to you and I am sorry I was not aware when you returned to Asgard. And that I could not stop it this time even while present."
"You should not have been there during that." Loki told her with a quick shake of his head.
"Haven't you learned by now that your mother is stronger than both her husband and sons combined?" Frigga asked, drawing on the barest hint of amusement "I would have been there for you through it all without hesitation."
She reached to touch his cheek and exude what healing she could over the numerous cuts.
"Your true heart is one of empathy and gentleness. I know this. You have reclaimed that again. Don't let it go."
She embraced him and Loki held her tightly. His chin tucked around her shoulder as he let tears fall.
"You are our son, Loki." she whispered "You always have been. You are the boy I taught magic. The one who excelled at anything put in front of him and then went further. Do not tell yourself you are any less than you are. No matter what happens, I will always be near you, loving and encouraging you. I'm proud of you for the choice you made to protect Midgard with Thor and inevitably help save the realms of this universe." she paused and exhaled "The Frost Giants are not evil. They came willingly when you asked. Remember that." she paused again and then held him firmer still "Make peace with your father, Loki. Please. He loves you as much as I. As much as Thor. He just does not show it in the way you recognize best. He is the one who chose you to be our child."
Loki just nodded, eyes squeezed shut. It was all he could manage. Their hug lasted a few moments more until finally, they both pulled back. Frigga set her sights on Thor and walked over to take hold of him now.
"You're too grown. I cannot believe you were once a child." she said in good humor "You have done well, Thor. In your humility and forgiveness. And kindness. Now, for my advice to you as well. Do not feel guilty for something you could not control. Valhalla needed me there. I wish I could have stayed longer on Asgard, but it was not your fault that I could not."
"I'm sorry." was all Thor could say without his voice breaking. Frigga shook her head.
"No, I am sorry. For leaving you. But, you are strong. You have learned much and I could not love you more. You will do well with whatever comes your way."
Hena lifted a hand to wipe tears from her own cheeks, despite the fact that nothing had been said to her.
"I'll have to wait so long before I can see you again. I don't know if I can bear it." Thor said softly.
"Indeed, I hope it is a long time before you join me." Frigga responded with a smile "But, you have much to do, as do I. Like your brother, remember that every time you wish you could talk to me, I am only a veil away. Truly, I will be there to listen. Valhalla is peculiar. They find ways to communicate with the living each day and so I will with all of you."
Thor nodded affirmatively, trying to maintain control over his emotions.
"And, dear Hena. Oh have I watched you from afar for the past while." the queen continued, making the Anaheimien princess turn slightly red.
"I wasn't sure when someone would be able to captivate my youngest son's heart. But I am glad it was you." Frigga went on warmly "You have a most beautiful soul, dear one. A mind for magic and a heart for helping others. You're fierce, but yet wield a tender spirit. Use that where you can. It will be of use. I wish we could have met sooner than this, but I am excited to see your future."
"Thank you." Hena replied, her voice almost shaking "I am glad that I have the chance to meet you, even if it is brief."
"You're going make a wonderful queen of this realm someday. Like your mother before you. Anaheim seems to produce exceptionally strong women."
She stepped forward to hug the woman before turning to Mazi.
"And you, darling girl." she knelt down to the child's height.
"I wish you could be here all the time." Mazi said immediately.
Frigga laughed "Oh me as well, child. I've only ever seen one other person with as much of a love for learning magic as you. And he has surpassed more than I could have foreseen. Perhaps is the best sorcerer in the Nine. Better than me, which is quite impolite, considering I taught him his initial skills. I imagine you'll follow in his footsteps. Don't let anything temper your spirit, little one. Your excitement and energy are virtues. You have my gratitude for seeing me on Midgard when none else could."
Mazi grinned proudly, swaying side to side as she beamed. Frigga tapped her nose affectionately once. She stood to now address the parents in front of her.
"Valder, Svleiva, thank you. You've shown a great deal of courage and sacrifice here today. Valhalla will not forget that. You came to assist the Nine Realms without knowing you too would be a target. I'm grateful for that." she breathed out in sudden sadness "I am sorry for the burden you have carried together. Rest assured, Svleiva, your children are safe in Valhalla and I will look after them. They already know you and love you."
Svleiva blinked, a quick breath coming to her lips.
"They will be waiting for you." Frigga nodded "Thank you for bringing in Loki. We learned much through that relationship. I wish we could have had a closer bond between our realms while I ruled alongside my husband. You are wonderful leaders and parents."
"Thank you, Frigga." Valder replied with an appreciative nod. She did the same in return.
"To our Warriors Three, Lady Sif, Nebula, and mortals here with us, you have all done well. This battle was won because of you as well and I thank you. You all possess great courage. Volstagg, Fandral, Hogun, and Sif, my Warriors, I am grateful and privileged to have served as your queen."
"We are thankful to have served you, your majesty." Volstagg some for the group and they nodded in agreement.
Lastly, Frigga looked to her husband. He approached her then and they drew away to speak privately.
The healers coaxed Loki back, but he only backed up slightly, not taking his eyes from his mother. So, they continued their treatment there. Hena could see that the God of Mischief was not fairing well. His eyes were feverish and red and he was hardly able stand up straight. But, the Asgardian ship was prepared to leave as soon as they were.
Asgard's king and queen spoke longer than any of the others. They remained close the whole time, foreheads occasionally touching. After many minutes passed, they finally appeared to be pulling back.
"It will be a long many years without you, Frigga." Odin said quietly, keeping ahold of one of her hands "You should not have been the one to leave first."
"No, I hoped we'd join Valhalla only moments apart." Frigga replied, with a sad smile "But, you have work to do here. Prepare Thor for the throne. Safeguard our realm until it is your time. I am eagerly waiting for you, but it mustn't come before all is done." she drew in a burdened breath and her voice changed "On behalf of Valhalla, I must impart a message. You told Thor shortly ago that if Loki were to die at this time, that our afterlife realm would not be his destination. While we cannot answer that statement, I do want you to know that Valhalla judges all because they can see all. They do not welcome any final decrees of a person's worthiness. I cannot say for certain where he would have been sent, but that is not your or anyone else's place to condemn."
Odin listened carefully, expression giving away nothing. Then he nodded in acceptance.
"I apologize for my imposition. It is not my place."
"I foresaw a humble acceptance." Frigga's voice was kind, but amused. In their last embrace, she continued to speak.
"Take our son back swiftly, my husband. He suffers greatly because of what they have done to him. The poison is far more potent than those we have dealt with before. I cannot foresee the events on Asgard, but please, do your best to reconcile with him regardless. He needs his father to face the future, whatever it might be."
As soon as they released each other, Odin nodded affirmatively to her, reaching once to touch her cheek.
Thor stood up straighter as he saw his parents part. Frigga walked closer again and did a respectful bow to all of them. They all did the same back to her, but Loki hesitated. She held out her arms for him and he went to grasp her one final time. She put a hand on the back of his head and spoke quietly only to him.
"I will not be far. I promise." she said gently as she rocked him side to side comfortingly.
"I almost wish I could come." he replied honestly.
"Not yet, my darling. Not yet." Frigga soothed "Watch for me. I will be here with you."
He nodded and she put her hands on his shoulders.
"Loki Odinson." she told him in a whisper. Then, let go and turned to the opening in the veil to the next life. Loki watched her go, his expression sad, yet peaceful for the first time since her death. Hena walked over to stand by him.
Head held high, Frigga gave her parting words.
"Be strong here. The danger in the universe has been silenced for now and you can rest. May peace be with each of you."
With that, she stepped back into the shimmering portal and was gone.
"Bring the lightly wounded to the northern side of the palace courtyard. They'll be tended to there." Svleiva instructed Adden with a gesture. They had divided their healers into two groups to treat their men accordingly. The more experienced ones were with the soldiers that needed care immediately. Fortunately, there were only a handed of those. The majority could wait.
"Valhalla was certainly watching over us. Even before they came." Valder said under his breath and his wife nodded. As they had expected, the Frost Giants had lost the most in battle. They were willingly helping the other realms without complaint though, less affected by the loss than the others would be.
"He sent in the Chitari and Outriders for us first." Svleiva replied. She smiled lightly "He didn't think we would be as much of a challenge as we were."
"I'm glad that we kept our men well prepared."
Alfheim had gathered their army and traveled back home already. They had minimal casualties, but they also were least inclined to be aggressive in battle. Additionally, they used magic rather than physical weapons the majority of the time.
Vanaheim, Asgard's closest ally, was having many of their wounded treated before leaving. They had brought their own healers to treat them as well. Any that were mortally injured were taken home to heal in their own realm.
"Are you going back to Midgard?" Mazi asked, looking at her older sister. Both of them still stood near where Frigga had departed.
Hena shook her head "No, the danger to them is gone now."
"Yes, Thanos is dead, correct? And the mean red man?" Mazi checked.
Her sister smiled slightly "Yes."
"He tried to hurt me and Adden and then he hurt Loki. I did not like him."
Hena glanced back towards the God of Mischief yet again. He was still with multiple Asgardian healers, but stood on his feet. He was going to be taken back to Asgard shortly. While that was necessary to save his life, she was anxious. If he left, she wasn't sure he would be coming back to Anaheim.
The Frost Giants, on the other hand, were keeping their king in their sights at all moments. His two guards stayed within a few feet and hovered slightly, much to the healers discomfort.
Odin went over to speak to the leaders of Anaheim briefly, though he kept his eye on Loki.
"What are your plans for Proxima Midnight and Corvus Glaive?" Valder asked him, glancing over at the secured prisoners. Both of them were being compliant, even if condescending.
"We will bring them to Asgard and before both myself and the council. I do not imagine they'll try to plead any innocence. I've confirmed that they are not under the influence of the Mind Stone. They'll be secured on our realm. Unless you have another preference?"
Valder shook his head "No, that is as I anticipated. They should never be loosed on this universe again."
Odin surveyed the activity going on around them "I hope it does not need to be said, but whatever assistance you need will be given. By Asgard or any of the other Nine Realms. We'll help where we can."
Svleiva nodded thankfully and her husband responded.
"Thank you. We should arrange an ammendment conference to discuss the interaction between our worlds as well."
Thor listened, realizing how happy he was that this was happening before his rule. He wasn't necessary grateful that his brother had messed up his coronation, but he was glad he was not king now.
"Loki, easy. Easy." that was Eira's voice suddenly, sounding very urgent.
The God's legs had buckled again, but the healers surrounding him caught him before he fell. Very carefully, they lowered him to the ground. Eira called to her king, but he was already coming over.
"Move the transport in, we're leaving now." Odin ordered.
"What's wrong with Loki?" Mazi asked, but her question went unanswered.
"This wound isn't going to heal while any poison remains." Eira said, trying to perform a healing spell over the freshly bleeding gash Loki was still awake this time, but only just "It is too unstable."
As soon as it arrived, Odin and Thor moved Loki into the ship, gingerly laying him on the ground. His two guards had followed and the Asgardian king did not object. He beckoned his lead solider, who quickly came over.
"We're taking Loki back. I will return to Anaheim once he has been stabilized. For now, help the Frost Giants in returning to Jotunheim. Tell them I will send a message back to them with the two Jotuns coming with us."
The man nodded swiftly, leaving to do just that.
"Are you coming with us?" Thor was speaking to Hena. She knelt beside the God of Mischief and glanced up at the query.
"If that is permitted." she responded, her voice worried.
"Yes." Odin said shortly, without looking at her. He rose his eyebrows towards her parents.
"Go with them." Valder told his wife with a gesture "I'll stay here with Mazi and continue the recovery here."
Svleiva was going to nod, but Adden spoke up.
"All of you should go. I'll continue the tasks here." he said. He inclined his head "Go, I'll take care of the realm until you come back."
Valder exchanged a glance with Svleiva and then exhaled.
"Thank you. We'll return as soon as we can."
Then they swiftly joined the others aboard the ship and the guard guiding it turned around to glide away.
Though the royal family from Anaheim had never set foot in Asgard, they hardly looked around them as Loki was rushed to the healing chamber.
Eir had been warned and was patiently waiting for their arrival. Loki had slipped from consciousness during their travel.
As soon as he was laid down, the healer pulled up a transparent image of his body. Several other women came to begin cleaning the wounds so the severity could be seen more clearly. They stripped him from the waist up, revealing the bruised and bloody cut in his side. Odin watched, eyes narrowed in apprehension.
Hena waited with her parents close by, fidgeting nervously. Loki looked deceivingly peaceful.
"He should not have fought in battle." Eir muttered "He should have been brought straight to me."
"He maintained an image to ensure we couldn't see his condition." Odin responded grimly.
"The entire time?" Eir asked incredulously.
"Nearly. Foolish as it was, it was remarkable."
"That would not have helped him in any way." she shook her head in frustration.
"Eira extracted the toxin on Anaheim, but she believes it is still present."
"Yes, I can see it. Unfortunately, it is not confined to his blood. It has traveled everywhere in his body."
At that report, she joined her assistants in beginning treatment. Hena took the moment to look around. The room was large and grand. No doubt it would be filled with soliders shortly following this.
Thor observed her and wondered if he should say anything to them. After all, this was his realm and this was their very first time traveling here. But Odin had not done so and he doubted they cared. All eyes were on Loki. Mazi was being uncharacteristically quiet and it was easy to forget she was there.
After a while had passed, the doors to the room reopened. Eir did not look up, but everyone else peered over. The Warriors entered cautiously, as if fearing bad news. Though all of them had religiously fought, they were largely unscathed.
"How is he?" Volstagg asked, eyes flicking over to the table.
"Eir has yet to give us a report." Odin responded. The man then turned to Valder and Svleiva.
"Vanaheim was leaving last we saw. The Frost Giants had also congregated near the Bifrost entrance."
"Was Adden still faring alright?" Valder asked.
"I didn't see any troubles."
"Good. Hopefully he'll delegate tasks to others." the king took Mazi from Svleiva now, keeping the daughter close, but allowing his wife a chance to rest.
They continued their vigil as the healer scrutinized the hovering form above Loki. She squinted at the hologram several times, deep in thought. Turning to the maid working closely with her, she would murmur several things before resuming.
Then Loki twitched and started to wake up. He couldn't manage to open his eyes, but he shuffled restlessly. His hands gripped the sheets of the bed. Immediately, Eir went over to him and initiated the healing trance.
"Get the pain tincture, please." she said to the woman by her. The God of Mischief appeared to have quieted, but as soon as the healer neared him with her hands, he jerked away. She instinctively tried to calm him, but her movement only agitated him further. Odin approached to aid them.
"I can help." Hena said, unable to watch without doing something.
Eir glanced at her, though she did not recognize the woman. Hena swiftly amended herself.
"I can influence emotions. It is one of our family powers. I will calm him until you are finished."
"He is not fully awake, but I see no harm." Eir replied with a dip of her head. The princess came over at that. Gently, she touched Loki's arm and he instantly stopped resisting.
It took Eir a few minutes to get him to allow the spell to take hold. He pulled himself out of it several times before they administered the anesthetic and a sedative, even with Hena's power over him.
"Can he dream in this state?" she asked softly. Odin glanced at her face intently, sensing the nervousness of her voice.
"No, he should not." Eir answered, though she was focused on her task at hand now "I put him in deep. I need time to examine this poison. He should be fully unaware now. You are free to let go."
Hena hesitated a moment, but did so. Loki stayed asleep and still as she left. Svleiva took hold of her daughter lightly.
Odin continued to look on silently as they finished the initial examination. The assistants began gathering the supplies necessary to treat the God of Mischief. Shortly after, Eir excused herself from them and went to report to the king.
"Perhaps we should...keep this conversation for matured ears." she gently suggested.
Thor scowled briefly, but Valder immediately nodded. Mazi, fortunately, did not quite understand the veiled request.
"Would you like me to take her out there?" Volstagg offered quietly "My wife is waiting. We will watch her."
Svleiva was about to shake her head, but then pressed her lips together. She looked to her husband, but he let her make the decision.
"Yes, thank you. We would appreciate that." she said.
"Mazi, would you like to see more of Asgard's palace?" Volstagg asked. The girl's interest was piqued, but she quickly gripped her father.
"We'll be out shortly, alright?" Valder assured her.
"Is Loki going to die?" she asked in a small voice.
"No, dear, he should be safe from that." Eir told her kindly "I will be watching him for the next little while to ensure he is safe, alright?"
The princess drew in a burdened breath, but allowed her father to set her down. Volstagg then led her out and the doors shut behind them.
"What situation did you retrieve him from?" Eir asked right off, examining each of their faces.
"Thanos imprisoned him. Near as they could tell, he was tortured for multiple days at their hands." Odin replied.
"Yes, near as I can tell too." the woman muttered.
"What is the extent?"
As the woman began to report, Hena braced herself. She was glad Mazi had been removed from the room.
"There is great internal damage. I should be able to reverse most if not all, but his recovery time will be lengthy. Fortunately or unfortunately, torture generally consists of external wounds. Clearly they didn't want...either side to be lacking. The larger wounds on his back are remnants of a whipping. They were aggravated after infliction with something similar to salt, likely only to cause more pain. Those I can heal, but it will take time. The burns...will be difficult. They were made with something unfamiliar to me. Normally his Asgardian skin and Jotun skin are separate, but these burns have merged the two. I imagine...as a Frost Giant, that part was very painful."
Now Eir looked at Odin "Are you aware of the location of the Time Stone? Did Thanos have it?"
"He did not have it on Anaheim. I do not believe he would have been willing to keep it anywhere other than on his person, so conclusion is that he did not." the king turned his head slightly, wanting her to explain the inquiry.
"Thanos perhaps has a method of instantaneous solidification of broken bones then. Loki has several signs of recent breaks. Ones that I know are not from his battles as prince."
Odin looked at the scans above his younger son, eyes flicking across them. He had analyzed these enough times to know what to look for. The lines from breaks both young and old showed. Grimly, many of them were across his femur bone.
"The most apparent wound in his torso is perplexing." Eir's voice was remaining as steady and emotionless as she could manage "Eira reported that it heals over, but then ruptures. For now, I will put that blame to the toxin."
"What is that on his throat?" Svleiva asked, trying discern the image.
Finally, Eir showed the first sign of hesitancy.
"From what I can tell, there are several burns on the internal portion. I pray to Valhalla that I am wrong, but the only way I could imagine that occurring would be if they..." she blinked slowly "made him swallow extremely hot liquids. Boiling oil or something similar."
Svleiva inlcined her head forward, mouth open in horrified shock. Eir nodded solemnly.
"How have we let these...evil MONSTERS exist for so long?" the queen whispered in absolute disbelief. Thor wondered the same, hardly able to comprehend that Loki had actually experienced any of the things being described.
"Some of his internal damage comes from that as well." Eir continued "Of course, you can see the cuts on his exposed skin. Those will be simple. I suspect that there are other things I will find when I do an in depth examination."
"How long will you have him remain in the healing trance?" Odin asked quietly.
"I hope for at least ten days. Longer if possible."
"Ten days? He needs that long?" Thor asked.
"He's very weak. He needs time to rest and recover. This effects of this poison may last longer than I anticipate." Eir explained.
There was a call for Svleiva from outside the room. From the sound of it, Volstagg was having a difficult time trying to distract Mazi.
"We should return to our realm." Valder said with a labored exhale. He put a sober gaze on Odin "Please send word if his condition changes."
"Wait." Hena spoke quickly. She too whirled to face Asgard's king "May I return when he wakes?"
Odin was focused on Loki, but he glanced her way, deep in thought.
"You are welcome to remain here until that time." he told her.
Relief sparked in Hena's expression, but she shook her head.
"I need to return to my realm. They need my help. But I would like to return."
"I will send for you when he wakes." Odin said "Soon enough, your family should be able to travel here through your own means rather than rely on the Bifrost."
Hena nodded gratefully and turned back to Loki. He was still, completely overtaken by the spell.
"Thank you for your help in defeating Thanos. We wouldn't have survived without the Nine Realms." Valder said.
"We would return again." Odin assured him.
The leaders both dipped their heads in farewell. Svleiva took one last look at Loki, as if afraid this was their final parting. Thor began to follow them out.
When he looked back, he was surprised to see that his father was not doing the same. Odin had gone back to Loki. The representatives from Anaheim left down the hall.
Thor watched, uncertain if he should still be observing. The king extended one hand, carefully placing it on the head of the Frost Giant that laid in front of him, eyes closed. With a sharp intake of breath, the God of Thunder swallowed.
Each time the princes had returned from battle, Odin would gift them some of his own strength for healing. He always did it when they recovered in sleep, so Thor had no recollection of it happening to him. He did, however, remember seeing the king do it for Loki many many times.
Eir came to finish tending to the king of Jotunheim before allowing him the long rest waiting ahead.
Next chapter is one of my most favorite ones I have ever written! Please leave a review! I appreciate ya!