Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters in this story. This is just for fun and I hope you enjoy reading it.
Child of Silence
By Angelwings Sorrow
Chapter 13 "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Hela
"You are traveling to Midgard again?"
"Of course, my dear why wouldn't I?" Frigga said giving her husband the cold shoulder as she packed her bag with the Midgard winter wear Loki had sent her.
"Loki and Thor are grown men they don't need their Mother constantly fretting over them." Odin chastised.
"Oh? And how do you know what our sons want or need?" Frigga turned upon her husband with a glare. "Because of you I am missing out on watching my grandson grow up. My sons are away and shall not return while you are acting so high and mighty with no sense of remorse! So I shall travel to where my sons and grandson are on Midgard and I will celebrate the Midgard holidays with them. Unlike you dear husband I love all my Children whether I bore them from my flesh or not. Now if you'll excuse me," with a wave of her hand Odin was pushed by an invisible force out of the room. "I need to finish packing." The door slammed in the All father's face and he was left standing there staring at the piece of wood.
"I see not much has changed since I left Asgard."
"What brings you home, Hela?" Odin turned to his eldest child, the one who left long ago.
"My Baby Brother wrote to me and asked me to attend this holiday on Midgard. He also said he had something important to talk about. Since I haven't had a holiday in centuries I decided to accept. I have one of the lesser gods watching over Niffleheim while I'm gone. I'm only here to pick up Mother. But I see that you are still the ever Stubborn Oxnard. No wonder your crown is the horns of the beast."
"Are all my children against me?"
"We're not against you old man, we are just not blinded by your illusion of Greatness any more. Father you are almost as old as time but still you learn nothing. Eons ago Prophesies were fact but now they are nonsense spouted off by attention seeking hacks. These hacks kill more innocents with their words than actually help those around them." Hela stalked towards the elder god, allowing her crown to come undone letting it return to its natural form of long dark hair. "You believe the disastrous futures of what might happen rather than the possible futures of Greatness for your children. So naturally they will leave your guidance just to prove you wrong. So take heed All-Father either learn to accept your family and all their flaws as well as your own flaws or you'll face the rest of your immortal life alone."
"Maybe you are right daughter, and it is time for this old fool to step down but your brother is not ready to rule." Odin sighed as he walked over to the vacant bench next to his wife's chambers.
"Does losing an eye mean that you only see half the picture and only listen to half of what people say?" Hela asked crossing her arms.
"Fine, then daughter what am I missing?"
"No one wants your throne old man. If I have to tell you what you are missing you will never learn. I will leave you to your thoughts as Mother and I have to leave soon for Midgard. Happy Christmas." Hela smirked as she passed him and into her mother's room. And there the great Odin sat with nothing but pride and lonely thoughts for company.
XxXxXxXxXx
"I do not understand the purpose of bringing a dead tree into our home just to set it a fire in the living room." Loki stated as he watched Tony and Clint dragged the freshly cut tree through the Communal area.
"Lokes, Sweetheart we're a little busy here." Tony called from under the tree branches.
"Brother, why do you not help them you could lift that easily." Thor asked as he brought his brother a fresh beer from the kitchen.
"I could, but this is Anthony's traditions not ours. So I am letting him enjoy the labor of his holiday." Loki smiled taking the offered beverage. The two gods watched the mortals struggle with their burden with great amusement. They didn't see Harry arrive until they saw the tree float into the air and set itself in the waiting stand. "Haraldr you are home early. How were your lessons with Sorcerer Strange?"
"Fine Dad, today we did preparations for the Solstice Celebrations."
"Hey thanks Hare-Bear, I think your dad was waiting to see if we got crushed under that tree." Tony huffed glaring at his smirking lover. "And we're not setting the tree on fire we're hanging lights on it to light it up.
"Well you had everything well in hand Anthony. The Birdman was adequate help for you not to need my interference. Haraldr go wash up you can help me with dinner." The dark haired prince grinned before guiding his son away.
"Tony! Quit watching his ass and help me with these decoration boxes!" Clint yelled already carrying a box to the living room.
"What ever you say Legolas, wanna give us a hand Sparkles?" Tony returned to work mentally mourning the loss of Loki in black skinny jeans.
"Very well. When exactly is this holiday suppose to take place?" Thor asked lifting three large boxes with ease.
"In one week. December 25th is Christmas it's a day where everything is closed and everyone spends the day with family and friends. Giving each other gifts and eating good food while enjoying everyone's company." Clint explained while unpacking the tree ornaments. "My Family is coming up on the 22nd and will be here until after New Years."
"So this is a Family Celebration. Most celebrations in Asgard are after battles or the return of our heroes or their deaths."
"That's a bit bloody and dark. Pepper said she invited her new boy toy to Christmas so our family is expanding. Loki said your mom is coming as well."
"Yes, she will be here through these winter celebrations as well. Actually she'll be here tonight but she asked that I not come to get her; she had made other arrangements with Heimdall. Shadow away with you cat, these are not prey." Thro pushed the cat away with his boot clad foot. Shadow on the other hand thought the lights were the perfect toy to play with.
"The Jinx sure lives up to its name and giving you all the bad luck Point Break."
"I know not why the cat seems to only attack me."
"That's because, beings with lesser minds are easy prey, brother." Loki smirked as he began to set the table with two extra place settings.
"Are we having guests for dinner Bambi?"
"Yes Anthony I told you yesterday just before you got your head stuck in the wall." Loki rolled his eyes. He was mentally laughing at the memory of yesterday when his lover thought to test the durability of his latest suit against Thor and Mjolnir indoors. While there wasn't a scratch on the suit, Tony went flying head first into the one of the few cement support walls in the tower thus trapping his shoulders and upper body with his head poking out the other side.
"Well the head trauma made me forget; so who's coming to dinner besides your mom?" Tony glared as he picked up the cat so Thor could finish with untangling the lights.
"It's a surprise now help finish the decorations so the room won't look so cluttered when they arrive." Loki waved a hand and the lights were no longer tangled in Thor's hands and were ready for hanging. Then started for the kitchen again but not before calling out "Hurry up Thor or you won't have time to change before Mother gets here."
"Yes, Brother." The Thunder God went quick to his task before his brother used his magic on him.
"Remind me again; who's the older brother?" Clint chuckled
"Though I am the eldest, I've learned that it is best to heed Loki's words or else his Magic will befall me and it would not be pleasant." Many times Thor ignored his younger brother in favor for his friends and the Cheers of their subjects and many times did he get hit with the brunt of Loki's anger and magic. It took almost a Millennium but he finally learned to listen when his brother spoke.
"Quit yapping Birdbrain we got work to do!" Tony snapped as threw a scented pinecone at Clint's head. "I don't want my boyfriend who is the God of Chaos to go Chaos on me for not finishing in time for his mother to visit. So get moving!"
"I'm going, I'm going."
XxXxXxXxXx
"Are you sure this is not Jotunheim?"
"I am sure Hela. Loki informed me that Midgard has vast weather changes frequently through out the year. We are experiencing their Winter Season." Frigga informed her daughter. The women landed just seconds ago and both wore the thick winter wear that Loki had sent them.
"I bet Baby Brother just loves, 'Winter'."
"Of course Dear Sister, for I am a Frost Giant." Loki greeted.
"The cold never bothered him anyway. Hi I'm Tony his boyfriend welcome to Earth and our home." Tony smiled.
"It is good to see you Anthony. I look forward to your Midgard Celebrations." Frigga hugged Tony happy that he and her son were finally together.
"Indeed. Baby Brother while you may not be bothered by the cold, Mother and I, are not Frost Giants and require some form of heat." Hela ignored the smaller man not impressed with him at all.
"This way Sister, Thor and I have made your chambers ready on our floor." Loki bowed before collecting their luggage.
"I don't think she likes me very much." Tony muttered as he watched the two siblings head inside.
"Don't fret, Anthony, Hela will warm up to you." Frigga looped her arm through Tony's as they walked inside.
"Fantastic, I thought Thor was the over protective Brother that I had to win over. It was easy as we're already good friends. I know Loki takes his siblings opinions seriously if she tells him to dump me, I'll be dropped like a hot Potato."
"Hela has always been a bit more protective of Loki than Thor. She will approve of you once she sees how happy you make Loki and Haraldr. Have faith in my son and his love for you. While he respects his sister he will always follow his own path. I know that his path will lead to you and Haraldr."
"I wish I had your confidence, but just in case; what does one get the Goddess of Death for Christmas?" The mortal's question went unanswered but for the musical laugh of his boyfriend's mother.
XxXxXxXxXx
"Hela! Dear Sister I did not know you would be here?!" Thor went to hug the goddess only to be stopped by her perfectly manicured fist to his face.
"That Dear Brother is what you get for stealing Fenris from my Realm." Hela calmly said as she stood over the fallen god. Thor laid daze in a small crater in the marble floor silently thanking the Norms that her anger wasn't in full force.
"I am sorry Sister, I shall not steal from your realm again, but I did return your Hound well fed and exercised." Thor apologizes knowing better than to move from his place of punishment.
"For that reason I just gave you a slight hit to the face instead of gutting you in front of your little friends." Hela smirked crossing her arms in satisfaction.
"Hela let your brother up he is sorry. You don't want to scare young Haraldr anymore than you already have." Frigga sighed in exasperation. No matter how many centuries have pasted they still acted like children.
"Fine Mother as you wish. Rise Brother your punishment is over. Now where is Haraldr I have a gift for him." Hela turned to Loki who had Harry hiding behind him.
"Haraldr come meet your Aunt Hela." Loki stepped to the side revealing the timid child. Harry was more than a little terrified to meet this relative. He thought no one was stronger than his Uncle Thor with Hulk coming in at a close second. Obviously he was wrong because his Aunt just flatten said Uncle with little effort.
"Come here child." Hela called and Harry hesitantly obeyed. The goddess waved her hands calling forth of dark green cloud and once the cloud was gone there was a locket in her hand. "As Eldest of the Odinson children I bestow upon you, our first descendent, the Power of the Mind."
"Hela is that…" Loki gasped as did Thor at the power coming from the Locket.
"Yes Baby Brother. It is the Mind Stone from the scepter you once carried. I retrieved it after you were done being a puppet for that Mad Man and cleansed it of the Evil impurities. Now it is as it was meant to be and with the God it was destined to be for." The Goddess of Death placed the necklace around Harry's neck and opened the locket before placing a kiss upon his forehead.
"Thank you." Harry's voice was heard in the minds of all who were in the room.
"Haraldr, I heard your voice." Loki whispered as a tear fell from his face at hearing what would have been his sons real voice had it not been taken. Harry rushed to his arms hugged him with happiness
"Yes, you did Brother. He will need practice to master the use of the Mind Stone but I know he will do it in time to attend that place." Hela snarled a bit at the thought of the school Harry had to attend.
"Thank you, Sister for this priceless gift, it means the world to us."
"Anything for you Baby Brother. Now let us feast and celebrate the newest child to our family." Hela was not one for displays of affection and always deflected, but she was happy in her own way to help her family.
The rest of the evening was spent feasting and meeting the rest of the Avenger Family. Hela sat back and observed them all seeing the possible fates of the group around her. More specifically the mortal Man of Iron who claimed her brother's heart. Being the Goddess of Death she could see the possible ends to the lives of Mortals and Gods alike. Thanos was the one who messed with her precious Baby Brother and his end was due. The Titan thought himself in love with her and has being wrecking the worlds around the Nine Realms as a way to woo her. She ignored him as her domain was only to the Nine. The other carriers of Death have been complaining for years about the mess to the Balance he has been doing. 'You take one holiday when you hit your First Millennia and go to one Space bar only to find the one guy who can't take a hint to leave you the hell alone.'
Well there will be balance soon enough. She changed the course of the future just enough to ensure loss of life was minimal and that the Stones would never come together. The rest was up to her brothers and nephew when the time was right. For now she would enjoy this Midgard Holiday with her Family while keeping an eye on that Man of Iron. She had to see if he was worthy of her Baby Brother and Adorable Nephew.
XxXxXxXxXx
"Morning Sister where is Mother and Thor?"
"Morning Brother, Mother and the Oaf went to the Midgard Market Place with the Tin Man and Haraldr." Hela replied as she flipped through a wizarding catalog.
"His name is Anthony Dear Sister." Loki sighed.
"His name is what ever I deem it to be until I decided he is worthy of you. He hasn't taken you to his bed Chambers yet has he?" Hela's eyes glowed with power ready to strike the mortal down.
"Calm, down Sister we have not lain with each other." The Younger God rolled his eyes as he tried and failed to suppress the blush. "We are not at that stage in our relationship yet, besides Haraldr still sleeps in either my room or Anthony's room. His nightmares have lessened but he still needs the comfort of one of us near by to rest peacefully. Now, Sister, my relationship with Anthony is not what I wanted to discuss with you."
"Very well Baby Brother, we have time for that later. What do you wish to speak with me about?"
"When I spoke with Jareth about Haraldr's accounts left to him by James we discovered that his Family was in possession of your Invisibility Cloak, one of the Three Hallows you Crafted centuries ago. Since James' death it had been stolen."
"What?!" Hela was on her feet and her magic crackled around her. She didn't use her magic often, like Thor she preferred hands on battle, but when she did use her magic it was more powerful then all the Nine Realms.
"Jareth had a traitor to his nation that allowed the theft to occur. I believe it was the headmaster of the school that has stole it. He forced James to sign a contract forcing Haraldr to attend his school or he loses his magic. Anthony and I are going to follow Haraldr to that school and we will get the Hallow, back." Loki explained trying to calm the goddess of death down before she destroyed the earth. Suddenly all the magic disappeared.
"No, Loki I want you to let this story play out. If I am correct about Haraldr's path the Hallows will find him. He is the God of Midgard Death or 'Master of Death' that sounds better." Hela waved her hand dismissingly. Her eyes flashed green as she pulled forth the vision she had uncovered not long ago. "Haraldr is strong and of your blood as well as a powerful mortal; he will face his path head on knowing he has your support. Once he has recovered all of the Hallows you must the bring resurrection stone straight to me. Its true name is the Soul Stone and until Haraldr reaches his first Millennia he will not be able to handle the power of two infinity Stones."
"You're serious aren't you? How could you possible know this?" Loki was shaking his head with disbelief.
"Brother, when Mother came to Niffleheim to tell me of you and Haraldr I sought out the soul of your mortal and I talked with him. I am sorry you lost your mate Brother, he loved you very much. But connecting with his soul I was able to connect with Haraldr's soul and his possible paths. He will come in contact with the Hollows that is not something that neither you nor I can prevent it, but we can help guide him along his path. Worry not Baby Brother his heart is too pure to go dark which is what that wizard wants. Dumbledore's time is coming to an end. He has escaped my grasp too long with his elixir of life and I will have his soul before Haraldr finishes his education." The power Hela had rolling off her was enough to start shaking the tower and most of the city block
"Hela! Please control your power before you level us to the ground!"
"Sorry, I just really hate mortals who think themselves gods. They have no idea of the powers they are playing with." The Goddess calmed her magic and repaired any damage done.
"As do I but we mustn't lose our focus." Loki sat on the couch and stared out the window. "So there is nothing we can do to lessen Haraldr's burden?"
"Oh fear not Little Loki, I won't let him start his god duty training until he's at least Five Hundred years old, by Norms he's only ten." Hela laughed taking the seat next to the younger god. "Once he finishes his schooling he will have plenty of time to explore and grow into the man and god he is meant to be."
"You are right but that doesn't stop me from worrying about him."
"Well of course I'm right I always am. As for worrying, that is just the nature of parenthood. Now stop moping; let's go to the Midgard market place we still have to shop for this holiday whatever it is called."
"Very will Sister. I can show you my mastery of the Midgard Car." The god of Mischief rose to his feet and smiled.
"If you kill us I will torture you through out our eternity Baby Brother." Hela glared but followed suit.
"As you say, Dear Sister."
XxXxXxXxXx
"Uncle Bruce, why are you sleeping in here?" Harry's digital voice rang out in the quite lab.
"Huh? Oh Harry I must have fallen asleep." Bruce sat up in chair he had fallen asleep in.
"So this is the mortal with two souls interesting." Hela's sudden appearance had the doctor falling out of his chair. "He's not very coordinated is he?"
Harry rolled his eyes and did the hand signs to open the locket to the mind stone. "Aunt Hela you startled him. You can be a bit intimidating."
"It's a Burden of Greatness." Hela shrugged and moved closer to Banner. Bruce leaned back as the goddess seemed to examine him. "Hmm, you are right Haraldr there is a bit of unbalance here but he is working through it just fine no need for interference from us but he is denying his soul mate. That is contributing to the imbalance."
"I thought so but I needed a second opinion since Father can't see souls like us."
"Soul mate? What is going on Harry?" the doctor got up off the floor and looked at the two gods wearily.
"My Adorable Nephew here has seen the red strings of fate connecting your soul to another one who is your true Soul Mate and not that girl you use to fancy." Hela explained.
"Yup, and I think you already know who we're talking about." The demi-god smirked.
"I should have known I couldn't hide anything from you, Harry." Bruce sighed slumping down in his chair. "I like her a lot but the Big Guy still likes Betty. Even if we did agree on whom we like it's just not a good idea for us to date anyone."
"This is why I see more Humans in the afterlife then any other species of the Nine Realms. Humans are so fickle and angst with their feelings that a lot of their paths end in tragedy. Now Nephew here is your first lesson on mastering the Mind Stone. Follow my hand movements." Hela instructed. Harry followed his aunt's movements and the power of stone glowed brighter. "Now gently wrap it around the good doctor."
"Me?!" Bruce jumped back but was unable to escape the yellow glow of power. Suddenly Bruce felt light headed and had to steady himself against the desk. "What happened?
"HULK MAD!" Bruce's head whipped around to see a ghost like Hulk standing next to him.
"Hulk? How is this possible?"
"Think of this as a much needed therapy session Doctor. Now Haraldr talk to your uncles and help them save their souls. I will watch from over there on the couch."
"I don't have a couch in here." The doctor protested but then he noticed an emerald green fainting couch that had suddenly appeared.
"Okay Uncle Bruce likes someone new Hulk, why don't you like this person?"
"Betty! Betty loves Hulk."
"Hulk we haven't seen Betty in almost five years. I know she loves us but it's more like friendship now. She won't even try to call because of her dad. I want her to be happy not living in fear because of us and her father chasing us."
"Hulk Protect."
"I'm sure you could but is that fair to Betty?" Harry asked the sad green giant. "Bruce has let Betty go to find her own happiness I think you should too. You and Bruce have a real soul mate and I think you both should give her a chance."
"Hulk… Hulk…"
"I'm sad too Buddy it hurts because we loved Betty for so long, but she has already moved on and so should we." The doctor felt like his heart was breaking once again over the girl he lost long ago.
"ROAR!"
"Hey, it's going to be okay."
"No, let him be, Uncle Bruce, he needs to mourn." Harry said as he placed a hand on his uncle's arm. "It's safe for him to express his sadness like this. Only the three of us can hear and see his soul."
The ghost like Hulk roared and stomped about the room as he worked through his first heart ache. Harry watched with sadness and Banner rubbed a hand over his chest as he felt the pain of the Hulk. After about an hour the Hulk soul started to calm down and huffed a bit in exhaustion.
"Bye, Betty." Hulk said falling into a deep sleep. Harry slowly and gently pushed Hulk's soul back into Bruce and his Uncle collapsed but Green Magic caught him before he connected with the floor. Hela then floated him to the couch and summoned a blanket to cover the man.
"Well done Nephew, you get full marks for your first lesson. Let's let the Doctor sleep here I do not think he would like to be paraded through the halls in such a state. Then we shall go to our floor and I want you to rest yourself as you expended a lot of magic."
"Yes, Aunt Hela." Harry closed the locket and sleepily followed his aunt into the elevator looking forward to a nice nap with Shadow.
XxXxXxXxXx
Frigga was getting into the spirit of the holiday and left the Tower every other day to do some sort of shopping. Today she dragged Hela and Harry out into the cold but this time they were going to the wizarding shopping district. Happy was a little nervous driving the three gods through the city but he would not shirk in his duties.
"We have arrived, your Majesty."
"Thank you, Harold. Come, Hela, Haraldr, we must hurry I want to return before the storm rolls in." The queen ushered the two from the car.
"But there are no clouds Grandmother." Harry tapped out
"Do not question your Grandmother, Haraldr; she has powers over nature that you know not. Snow is upon us and my mother has never been wrong." Hela scolded lightly as they walked through the barrier. All three gods had changed their clothes into their Asgardian Dress and Armor. The trio made their way to Gringotts the crowds parting for the powerful gods. The wizards guarding the bank dropped to their knees as the three stopped before them.
"Welcome Your Majesty Queen Frigga, Crown Princess Hela and Prince Haraldr." They guards greeted and there were whispers among they crowd of wizards and witches.
"Rise we have come to see the Goblin King." Frigga smiled. The Guards opened the doors and the taller of the two escorted the Gods to the King's Manager's desk.
"Queen Frigga of Asgard seeks an audience with the Goblin King." The Guard announced.
"You Honor us your Majesty. I shall announce you at once." The small goblin quickly descended the stairs and through the Golden doors. It was less then a minute before the doors opened. "The King will see you now."
"Thank you child." Frigga smiled as she glided past the young goblin followed by Harry and Hela.
"Welcome Queen Frigga you are most welcome to my humble Kingdom." Jareth bowed deeply in greeting.
"Oh Jareth you have grown up so Handsome. I bring greetings from your mother as well as a care package." The queen hugged the man she once knew as a boy. Then she handed him a bag taking in delight as he stumbled a bit under the weight. Children often underestimated a mother's strength and their determination to feed their children.
"Thank you I shall call her this evening and give my thanks. Ah, Crown Princess Hela it has been centuries and you are still just as beautiful." The king turned to the goddess who looked upon him unimpressed.
"And you seemed to still be just the fool only with a new title."
"Hela! Be polite!" her mother scolded.
"Do not worry Queen Frigga I do not take offense. After all she saw me when I was just Loki's tag along friend running through the palace. Prince Haraldr I feel that you are much stronger since the last time we met." Jareth laughed turning to the young prince.
"Greetings Your Majesty." Harry had opened the locket since his voice disc would not work in magical areas.
"Ah see, you have been gifted with a voice for Christmas. Call me Jareth as your father has asked me to be one of your god parents and I have accepted." The Goblin King was surprised to be almost tackled in a hug from the young god/wizard but happy none the less.
"Thank you, Godfather. And thank you again for my kitten Shadow. He's my best friend and I love him very much." Harry smiled ending the hug.
"You are very welcome Haraldr. Come sit and tell me what powers has he developed so far. Each Jinx Cat's powers are different and develop on the powers and needs of their master. For example my Alva can run through walls as if they are not there. " Jareth snapped his finger and the throne room was once again an office and three chairs appeared before the massive desk and throne like chair. All four of the occupant reverted to their Human mortal wear.
"Shadow so far can change his size kind of like Uncle Bruce when he gets mad. Shadow does it to be protective or to cause mischief for Uncle Thor, which is quite often."
"I knew he would be the perfect familiar for you. I'm sure your uncle is enjoying his company. Shadow's powers will grow as yours will; so you must tell me all of your mischievous adventures while you are at school."
"I will Godfather, I promise."
"Good. Now My Ladies what can I do for you this cold winter's morn?"
"I would like to exchange some Asgardian jewels for currency both magical and Mortal. Loki and Anthony have been quite generous with giving us spending money but as a mother and grandmother I don't feel right taking money from them." Frigga explained and placed a leather bag upon the desk.
"This is a tidy some Lady Frigga. I shall set up an account for you that you will be able to use when ever you are on earth visiting." Jareth took the bag feeling the hefty weight of the jewels before removing two of the gems. "Ingram!"
"Yes your, Majesty?" The little goblin came in and bowed.
"Take this bag and have them appraise and converted into gold. Then place the gold in an account for Queen Frigga of Asgard. I also want you to covert the Emerald Gem into Non-magi Currency and this Ruby into gold for immediate use. Have the keys for the vault brought here once they have been cut."
"Yes, your majesty." Ingram took the bag and hurried away.
"So Crown Princess what can I help you with?" Jareth turned a charming smile to the Goddess of Death."
"I too require funds for my stay here, but I don't need an account as my duties do not allow for frequent visits. So I will sell you my first dagger I have out grown made by the Dwarves of Nidavellir." She waved a hand and pulled the small dagger from the green cloud of magic above her head.
"Such a prize indeed. I will give you One million in mortal currency and One million in gold. That should be the Asgardian equivalent in exchange. What ever you do not use in this trip we will keep in a money pouch in Prince Haraldr's Vault. Are these terms acceptable?"
"They are." Hela stood and placed the dagger on the desk before holding her arm out to the Goblin King who clasped it sealing the deal.
"Here these are magically expanding pouches; the Black one holds your gold and the Green one holds your mortal currency for this area of Midgard." Jareth opened two draws from his desk pulling a money pouch from each on then handing them to Hela. "Now is there anything I can do for you Prince Haraldr?"
"I would like to withdraw five hundred gold pieces and one thousand in US dollars." Harry said handing his godfather his vault key.
"I see doing some surprise Christmas shopping for your Father and the Avengers. Just a suggestion, Petersen's Prank Palace is great for a few trinkets for your dear Uncle Thor." Jareth smiled using the key into the lock of his top desk drawer then filled a blue money pouch with the required funds. He then locked the desk with the key once again then hand both key and pouch to the Prince. It was at that moment Ingram returned with a gold and silver money pouch for the Queen along with her new vault keys.
"Well, we must be going. Thank you so much for your help today, Jareth." Frigga stood with the others before hugging the king goodbye.
"Anything for you, my dear Lady. It was good to see you too Hela try not to destroy New York while you're in town."
"You are a cheeky bastard aren't you? Same brat, just like you were when you were at a hundred and fifty."
"Hela!"
"Pay her no mind my Lady as she just remembers me in my misspent youth."
"I put up with you for the sake of my Baby brother otherwise I would have killed you years ago. Good bye Jareth may it be centuries before I see your annoying face again." Hela nodded and left with out another word.
"Bye Godfather, thank you for your help today. I'll visit soon." Harry hugged the king and ran after his aunt.
"I'm sorry about Hela, she has always has been so head strong."
"Don't worry about it. I like riling her up; its not every day I get mess with the Goddess of Death." Jareth laughed.
"Take care with how much you wind her up not even my son's friendship can save you if anger her too much. I must follow them don't forget to call your mother I will hear if you do not." Frigga warned before gliding out the door and after her children.
"Never a dull moment with that family." The Goblin King chuckled before returning to work.
XxXxXxXxXx
The tower was all a buzz with activity as it was overflowing with family. Clint's family came over from the farm with the help of Harry and his Sling Ring and had settled in on Clint's floor. Buck and Steve had moved Sharon into their floor for the holiday sharing stories of when they were with her Aunt Peggy. Pepper managed to sneak Coulson on to her floor getting Harry to order Jarvis not to tell Tony he was in the tower.
Tony jumped up from his bed not caring that it was six in the morning. This was the first Christmas with his new family and he was going to enjoy every moment. He quickly dressed and made his way to the Asgardian floor. Once he was on the floor he tip toed quietly passed Hela and Frigga's rooms to Harry and Loki's room. He did not want to wake the Goddess of Death. He was quite happy to be in the living world thank you very much. Over the past week he was no closer to winning her approval since she arrived. She still ignored him and glared at him if he was to sit or stand too close to Loki. He eased his way into the room and over to the bed with the sleeping boy and cat.
"Hey Hare-Bear," Tony kneel by the boy's bedside and continued to whisper. "Come on sleepy head. It's Christmas. You gotta wake up no kid sleeps in on Christmas morning."
Green eyes slowly opened and blinked back the sleep. Suddenly the confusion left his face as he realized it was Christmas the first one since he lost his daddy and Lily. Harry then signed, "Uncle Tony is it really Christmas?"
"You bet Mini Merlin." Tony signed back as not to have Loki wake up. "Now we won't open presents just yet but this is you and me time maybe have some hot chocolate."
"I'd like that." Harry smiled putting his glasses on then he nudged Shadow awake. Then both followed the genius out of the room and to the elevator. As they rode the elevator Harry watched as snow fell on an already blanketed New York City.
"Good Morning Master Harry, Merry Christmas." The AI greeted once the doors to the Communal floor opened.
"Morning Jarvis, Merry Christmas."
"Hey, J. why don't you fire up the hot chocolate machine we bought yesterday."
"Yes sir."
Tony guided Harry to the couch next to the fire place and with a snap of his fingers the fire came to life. Shadow jumped on to his lap letting out a mighty yawn. Soon the coffee table opened up and a tray rose to the surface with two mugs and a pot of the Hot Chocolate. Tony poured them each a mug but left it to cool and the sat next to Harry.
"You know Hare-Bear I'm going to let you in on a little secret." Tony smiled at the cute expression of curiosity on the boy's face. "When I was young Christmas morning was more a mandatory event rather than a time of family togetherness. My Father was a smart man and a shrewd businessman. You know Uncle Steve's story about how he became Captain America right? Well, my dad was a part of that process. Uncle Steve was his greatest success and nothing I did could ever compare. Even after your Uncle was lost my dad was solely focused on finding the Capsicle. I never had Happy Christmas growing up but it's different now. This is the best Christmas I've ever had because you came into my life. You, Hare-Bear, changed this crazy band of Misfit heroes and we became a family. I am ever so glad Barnes broke that spell on him and brought you here. You are the best Christmas present we could ever get." Suddenly his arms were filled with a crying Wizard/Demi-god. "I love you too kid."
Hidden in the shadows was someone who woke when the two passed her door. Hela was a light sleeper and had followed the two to the communal floor. She didn't know what the mortal was up to luring her nephew away from the family floor but she would not let him go alone. She stayed in the shadows watching their every move making sure there was no danger to Haraldr. Instead what she witnessed was a heart felt moment between the Man of Iron and her Adorable Nephew. The mortal was willingly exposing his vulnerability to the child and giving his love unconditionally by thanking him for just being born. Haraldr who had so little love in his life became overwhelmed but returned the man's familial feelings. Hela vanished in a silent green smoke back to her room to await the others to wake. She had been defeated without even a battle. Anthony Stark had won the love of her Baby Brother and her Beloved Nephew. The defeat left a sour taste in her mouth but there was nothing she could do about it. The mortal won fair and square as the Midgardians say. What she could do is threaten the little bastard with a torturous death and afterlife should he hurt Loki or Haraldr. Just the thought of that perked up her mood tremendously. "Well played Man of Iron but I always get the last word."
XxXxXxXxXx
It wasn't long before the other Avengers trickled into the living room and the sound of paper ripping filled the air. Gifts were exchanged and laughter warmed the hearts of all assembled. Pepper shyly brought Phil up to the communal floor with their gifts for everyone. Tony was in such shock at the news that Agent was Pepper's new boyfriend he couldn't speak for a full twenty minutes. Bruce quietly slipped a gift into the hands of the Black widow before he disappeared in the kitchen for more egg nogg. Harry smiled at the small step his uncle made towards happiness. He looked around seeing the many smiling faces happiness of all around him; even his Aunt Hela had a smirk upon her face. It was then he noticed a lone figure outside sitting in the falling snow faced away from the joy of the others still in side. Harry took advantage of the distraction his Uncle Thor caused, when Shadow tripped the Thunder God making him spill the breakfast tray he was carrying in, and slipped outside. He slowly approached the figure on the bench cautiously unsure of what to say to this stranger on their balcony.
"You should have a cloak young one. You are only half Frost Giant and are still in need of some kind of warmth." The stranger called to him but did not turn around. "Come sit Haraldr I mean you no harm."
Harry sighed and opened his locket before sitting next to the older God. "Hello All-Father Odin."
"I see Hela has gifted you with the Mind Stone. Good, it seems at least someone is doing right by our family. It seems I am so old I have forgotten what truly matters." The Old God turned and smiled at his grandson. "It was snowing like this during the battle of Tonsberg that ended in Jotunheim, the day I found your father. He was left abandon in a temple as a sacrifice to the universe for winning the battle. He was so small for a Frost Giant and helpless. As I held him I could feel the magic in him, so powerful and coursing though his tiny body I knew he needed that chance to live to grow to see his full potential. I took him home to Asgard and your Grandmother fell in love with him instantly. Hela and Thor loved Loki right away, but I held back. I tried to treat all my Children equally feeding them the stories of our home, tales of the enemies to fear and promised them their chance for Greatness but I did more harm than I realized."
"Do you hate my Father?"
"No Haraldr I do not. I love my son even though he is not of my blood. I guess I feared him because I believe the Prophets of old saying the Children of my house would cause the end of Asgard. Your Father is powerful and I know Hela favored him above Thor and she would stand by his side should he decide to take the throne by force. I would not stand a chance against them. So like all stupid old men I thought I knew best and stubbornly clung to these Prophecies pushing your father away. I have made many mistakes Haraldr and they have led me here outside and alone as my family leaves me for better things."
"They haven't really left Grandfather. They are but ten feet away it's up to you whether you want to close the distance." Harry looked to his grandfather who looked much older than when he sat down. He knew the god was hurting but there was little he could do as Odin had to take the first step for change.
"Wise words from a god so young. Yes you are right, but I guess, it is fear that stops me from moving forward. I have hurt your father so much I do not know how to gain his forgiveness."
"You won't know unless you try Grandfather."
"True, well like all warriors I need to face it head on. Will you stand with me as I face the greatest battle I will have to fight?"
"I don't think there will much of a fight they all love you, but I will stand by your side." Harry smiled up at his grandfather as they stood up from the stone bench.
"Good because all of them have been standing at the glass and have been watching us for some time." Odin clasped a hand on the boy's shoulder guiding him inside where the others were waiting. Harry's eyes widened seeing his father looking at him worriedly, his Uncle Thor had Mjolnir gripped tightly in his hand, Aunt Hela's eyes were glowing green and Grandmother Frigga has a soft concerned expression on her face. Uncle Tony had an arm around his father in silent support and the Other Avengers were stiff with battle ready stances.
"Well I hope there won't be a battle." Harry replied nervously as they walked towards the others. He knew his Grandmother wouldn't let them attack indoors but you never knew who could get in a sucker punch. Christmas was a time of forgiveness and making amends. Odin deserved a chance to right his past wrongs and if they forgot then he would just to remind his family of that. 'His Family' he would never give tired of saying that or thinking it and now his family was on the way to being whole he couldn't ask for a better Christmas present.
A/N: Yay another chapter done. Chapters will be a bit slower as I have two Birthdays to prepare for and family coming in. I am also trying to edit previous chapters so please be patient Hogwarts is upon us. I made this chapter a bit longer so I could tie things together but Mandarin is still evading capture so the Avengers will not be idle while Harry is at School. Thanks for Reading Keep reviewing.