Two weeks later, on the morning Desi was due to arrive, Loki was up early to clean their chambers since he always did the cleaning himself. He dusted and organised, cleaned the bathroom, and checked to make sure everything was tidy.

Both of them had already eaten breakfast, so Laney decided to lay out on the balcony on a blanket, soaking up some sun. "You've been cleaning for an hour," she complained when Loki passed by the open door for what had to have been the twentieth time.

He stopped and poked his head outside to look at her. "I just want to make sure everything is clean and tidy. Desi will be here any minute and I don't want the place to be a mess."

Laney chuckled as she rolled onto her back. "You act like you're about to meet my mother."

"I am about to meet your best friend, I think that is more terrifying." He chuckled softly, then turned when there was a knock on the door. "That is most likely her..."

"Most likely," Laney answered as she stood and put a sheer wrap over the tiny top and bottoms she had on. "It's open!"

Desi opened the door slowly, then made an excited bound across the room to hug Laney, her bright red hair flying behind her. "I missed you!" She giggled, letting go after a minute.

Laney laughed. "I missed you too. I am so happy you decided to come here."

"I felt a little nervous at first, but since you aren't leaving anytime soon, I knew I had to come see you." She admitted, then glanced over at Loki who was standing nearby, but she was too intimidated by his royal status to talk to him.

"There's nothing to be nervous about. In fact, I'd like you to meet someone," she replied and held out her hand for Loki to take. When he did and stood by her side, Laney looked back to Desi. "This is Loki, my childhood friend, and now, my partner."

"It's nice to finally meet you." Loki said, bowing politely and wearing his most charming smile.

"Nice to meet you too." Desi said, blushing softly. She didn't tell me he was this handsome...

Laney tightened the grip she had on Loki's hand. "How have you been?" She asked, "You know how we've been as of late."

"I've been busy with my post, but good. There really isn't much to tell." Desi shrugged.

"We can all have a seat. I will get us some tea if you like." Loki offered.

Desi smiled. "Tea would be wonderful."

Laney kissed Loki's cheek and let go of his hand. "Thank you dear," she murmured, then turned to lead Desi out to the table on the balcony. She sat, then watched as Desi sat across from her. "I hope that your post as a children's healer hasn't been too busy," she commented.

Desi pulled her focus away from the balconies view. "It has been a bit busy, but mostly just a bunch of the normal stuff. We haven't had anyone badly injured or sick." She explained, unable to stop herself from looking at everything in sight.

"Is this your first time coming to Asgard?" Laney asked. "Both of us can take you on a tour. Loki's able to roam the palace and the grounds now, but Frigga has a tracer on him."

Desi nodded. "I saw the palace once before from a distance, but this is my first time in the palace and around royalty." She admitted, blushing softly. "A tour would be fun... if he doesn't mind." She said, still intimidated by Loki's status.

"Desi, Loki will not mind. He'll be happy to get some fresh air. He's just like you and me, there's no need to be scared of him," Laney explained, "Hel, I've told you practically everything we've ever done."

"I know, but he's still a prince, and quite the attractive prince at that." She giggled, then blushed deeply when Loki walked up with their tea.

"I wasn't sure what you liked best, so I made you the same as Laney. If you want something different, just let me know." He said with a friendly smile and acted as if he hadn't heard the comment.

"Thank you, whatever Laney's having will be fine." Desi replied softly as she took the cup he offered.

Laney smiled up at Loki and invited him to sit in the chair beside hers while she took a sip of Earl Grey. "Perfect Loki, thank you." She looked over at her long time friend and nodded. "So, what would you like to do first? I do not know how long you wish to visit for, so we can do as much as we can. Maybe I can even introduce you to Thor if he isn't too busy."

Loki sat next to Laney and held her hand under the table while sipping his iced, sweetened tea.

"I don't know what to do first. I've heard stories about the palace... the garden, library, armory... it all sounds incredible!" She said, then thought about her next response for a moment. "I can only leave my current post for one week every month."

"Then we will do as much as we can," Laney assured. "We can start at the library and work our way around the palace. Oh, by the way, before I forget... have you talked to father? He has not answered either of our letters that we wrote to him."

Desi gave a soft sigh. "I haven't. I stopped by to see him before I left, but he either wasn't home or just didn't answer the door. A friend of mine told me he has not been showing up to his post these last few weeks." She told Laney, trying to hide some of her worry.

Laney furrowed her brow, concerned. "That's unlike him. I wonder where he could have gone."

"Could he have been upset about the news we sent him?" Loki asked Laney. "I can have someone sent to check on him..."

"I hope not," she replied, "It could have been a shock finding out that you are alive. I know it shocked me when I found out."

"True, but to still have not replied to you... I will still feel better if I send someone to at least make sure he is well." Loki said, not wanting to divide them even further.

"I'm sure I would have heard if he required any treatment or if anything happened. Healers love to gossip." Desi admitted, fairly certain Laney's father was well enough.

Laney shrugged. "I guess I will hear from him when he is ready to respond to us." She sat back in her chair and took another sip of her tea.

"When I get home, I'll stop by again and see if he's back." Desi promised, then picked up a cookie from the tray. "What is Thor like? I'm kind of scared to meet him."

"He's sweet, I think you would like him," Laney replied, then chuckled when she saw Loki roll his eyes. "He's kind of like a stuffed bear, only with more muscles," she added.

Loki muttered something under his breath, clearly not approving of the way Laney described Thor.

"Are they still at odds with each other?" Desi asked, referring to Loki and Thor.

Laney squeezed Loki's hand beneath the table. "I think they will always have their moments, but they will always be brothers."

Loki rolled his eyes again, but didn't argue. "How about we just go on that tour?" He suggested, wanting a change in topic.

"That sounds like a plan. Are you ready to start walking Desi?" Laney asked as she stood, her tea now finished as she placed her cup on the small table.

"More than ready. I am used to doing a lot of walking." She stood as well, leaving her empty cup behind.

"Library first, correct?" Loki asked, taking a couple cookies to go as he stood. "Or should we find Thor first?"

Laney thought for a moment. "I think Thor would be in the training ring outside by now, we can work our way there."

"That should be our last stop." Loki chuckled, just delaying having to see his brother. He took Laney's hand and led the way from the room. "It is nice to be able to walk around again!"

"If we must," Laney replied with a chuckle as she turned to make sure Desi was behind them. "We spent all day yesterday in the garden, but I understand your happiness." The both of them walked down the large ornate hallways, then down a flight of stairs and into the overly large library. "Here we are Desi."

"I still have not been free to wander very long, so it has some excitement each time." Loki explained.

Desi caught up to walk next to them, but her jaw dropped when she saw the library before her.

Laney smiled over at her friend. "Feel free to explore for a bit Des. I'm sure Loki will want to gather books to browse through."

"What if I get lost?" Desi chuckled, looking at the huge, seemingly endless rows of bookshelves.

"There are worse places to be lost for all eternity." Loki joked. "You can stay with us if you like, or we will find you."

"I will wander for a bit." Desi said, not sure where to start.

Laney watched as Desi wandered a couple aisles down before she pulled Loki in the opposite direction, towards the romance novels. They came upon a dark aisleway when Laney made him stop and pulled him by the collar of his shirt for a kiss. Loki grinned mischievously and wrapped his arms around Laney, pulling her body against his. He deepened the kiss, brushing his tongue along her bottom lip causing Laney to open her mouth and let his tongue explore while she gently walked him backwards until he stood against a wall. Her hands deftly untucked his tunic then wandered beneath it, wanting to feel his skin against her own and loved when Loki gave a soft moan in response. Loki worked quickly to open his tunic fully, wanting to feel more contact from her, although he never removed his lips from hers.

Desi softly cleared her throat, announcing her arrival. While she looked embarrassed, it was clear the library matron standing beside her had found other couples making out in the library before. "I can go wander longer..." Desi offered.

Laney pulled away from Loki and instantly hid her red face from view with a groan. They'd never been caught before. "I'm sorry Desi," she said breathlessly.

"It's alright, I just didn't expect that." Desi giggled. "Is it alright if I borrow a couple books?"

"You can borrow all the books you want." Loki assured Desi with a huff, not nearly as embarrassed as Laney. He held her close, making no attempt to close his tunic.

Laney placed one last kiss against Loki's chest before she turned to face her friend. "What did you find of your interest?"

"I found a couple adventure novels that sound exciting. There's also a few healer journals, but I'm not working during this visit." Desi said, taking full advantage of the vacation. "Did you find something of interest?" She teased.

"You could say that," Laney countered as she bit her bottom lip. She watched as the matron rolled her eyes and left them be, knowing not to scold them unless they were overly indecent. "Do you want me to put those in your rooms and continue on?" Laney asked.

"Yes please. The matron has already made a note of them." Laney said, glancing over as the matron walked off to return to her duties. "Should I... you know, get used to finding you two like this if I walk away for a few minutes?"

"You probably should." Loki chuckled, finally releasing Laney, smirking as he watched her blush again.

"I'm sorry Desi," Laney said, "We'll try to be more discreet." She linked her arm with her friend's, then turned to see Loki straightening his tunic. "Where to next?"

"The garden and armory are in different directions, so you will need to pick." Loki told them. I'm fairly certain Thor is not in the garden...

"Both are amazing places. Frigga has an amazing green thumb and there's flowers you've never seen," Laney explained.

"Can we do the garden first?" Desi asked, excited to see everything. "Her majesty sounds like a wonderful queen, from what you've told me." She told Laney.

Loki smiled and led the way, letting the girls walk together and talk.

"She's the sweetest," Laney remarked as they followed behind Loki. "Hopefully you'll get to meet her while you're here. She helps a lot in The Hall of Healing, so she may find interest in you."

"She can meet mother during the evening meal, if we don't see her before then." Loki said, knowing Frigga might also be in the garden.

"Is she a healer as well as a queen?" Desi asked curiously, but she was momentarily distracted when Loki led them out into the garden. The huge fountain was closest to the entrance he picked.

Laney nodded. "She's well versed in the art of healing and seidr and likes to combine the two." She let go of Desi's arm to let her wander and explore the vast area, moving to stand beside Loki.

Desi looked around in awe. Some flowers she recognized, and some were completely foreign to her. She loved all of their various fragrances though.

"I think she likes the palace." Loki chuckled, wrapping his arm around Laney. "I miss the cooler days, it is getting so warm."

"Warmer days mean we can go swimming though," Laney suggested as they walked behind Desi, "Never know where that could lead."

"You know I just sink to the bottom." Loki chuckled. "But I can hold my breath for a decent amount of time." He grinned mischievously.

Laney rolled her eyes, but grinned. "I know for a fact you can swim, don't be coy."

"Yeah, when I use magic and illusions to help me," he laughed, "We can get in the water now and see where things lead." He suggested, smirking.

"I don't think Desi would like that very much," she scolded playfully. "But maybe tonight? Is the back lake safe to swim in? The one with the willow trees."

Loki nodded. "It is perfectly safe, and the willow trees make a little private cove we can take advantage of." He told her.

Desi found them a few minutes later, carrying a lovely bouquet of flowers. "One of the gardeners gave me these! She was so sweet to me!" She said happily.

Laney raised an eyebrow at her. "Was she fair complected with dark blonde hair?" She asked.

Desi nodded. "Yes, and she approached me and offered the flowers. I was worried about the queen being upset about the flowers being picked, but she assured me it was fine to take these to my room."

"Desi," she giggled, "That was Frigga."

In an instant all the color drained from Desi's face. "Are... are you sure?"

"Relax dear, I just wanted to show you that we are just like everyone else." Frigga said sweetly, as she walked up from behind her, joining them.

"Morning Frigga," Laney greeted sweetly, "I'm glad you've met Desi."

"Good morning dear. I am glad I met her as well. She has a very kind soul." Frigga said kindly. "Did you enjoy your visit to the library?" She asked Laney, giving her a knowing look.

Laney gulped and averted Frigga's eyes as a blush filled her cheeks, making Desi laugh at her discomfort. Loki also chuckled and pulled Laney closer. "Public places are fair game."

Frigga grinned and shook her head with a shrug. "Just watch yourselves. Do you want lunch out here today?"

"Is it that time of day already?" Laney asked. "Time is passing quickly today."

"It is not quite lunch time, but it is close enough I figured I would ask since you usually swim when it's warm." Frigga explained.

Laney shrugged and looked at Loki, then Desi. "What would you guys like to do?"

"I think Desi should decide, as she is our guest." Loki suggested.

"Can we have a picnic out here?" Desi asked curiously. "If it's too warm, inside is fine as well." She said, remembering Loki's heritage, but trying to be tactful.

"There's a large tree that will give us shade outside of the garden, close to the training courtyard," Laney said, then turned to Loki, "Is that okay hon?"

Loki nodded. "That should be fine darling. Desi might get to see some training, depending on who is out today." He pointed out. "Shall we? It is a nice walk."

Laney smiled and nodded. "Let's head that way. Frigga would you like to join us or are you still tending flowers?"

"I will join you. I am mostly out here for my own relaxation." Frigga admitted, then walked with them. The cobblestone path through the garden cut through most of the rose bushes and many other flower bushes including exotic varieties as they walked towards the training courtyard.

When they reached the large tree Laney sat on the cool grass and leaned against the base of it. This is our childhood hideout tree, she thought with a small smile.

They could see the training courtyard on full display as a few people spared in the midday sun. "Looks like Thor is hard at work," Laney stated, noticing the tall brawny blonde as he fist fought with someone.

Loki sat next to Laney, but had little interest in the sparring. Desi sat on Laney's other side and Frigga across from them. "Which one is Thor?" Desi asked, having never seen him before.

"You see the tall bulky one with his hair pulled back into a ponytail for once?" Laney asked as she pointed, "That's Thor."

Desi looked to where Laney was pointing. "He is cute, and so fierce looking!" She said, definitely approving. When she realized she was watching him, she blushed and looked away.

Laney chuckled and nudged her friend as she eyed Loki. "From what I've heard, he's single. He was seeing a Midgardian, but it's been a long time since he's talked about her."

"Why would I need to... oh no! I'm not silly enough to think of things like that." Desi said, blushing deeply. I'm just a commoner...

"Desi, just talk to him when you meet him," Laney suggested, "He's been lonely lately."

"I am not trying to get with him though," Desi insisted.

"I'm not asking you to Desi," she replied just as someone brought out tea, fruit, and biscuits for them.

"The first thing you told me was that he's single, so it kind of felt like you were hinting at that." Desi admitted, now regretting how she jumped to conclusions. She looked at the mix of common and exotic looking fruits and picked up something she had never seen before. "Is this some of the Jotun fruit you told me about in your letter?"

Laney glanced over at Loki, then back to Desi. "I'm not sure. I haven't seen that one before." She silently but her lip as he gaze moved toward the grass. I hope he will not be cross that she knows.

"It's from Vanaheim Desi," Frigga stated, "Where I'm from. It's similar to what Midgard calls a dragon fruit."

"I've never heard of a dragon's fruit. In her letter, Laney told me about the fruits you imported from Jotunheim and how happy she is that Loki has been a bit more open minded about eating them. I was hoping for the chance to try them myself." Desi explained to Frigga. While she had heard stories from the wars, she had not been exposed to all the hate, so Loki being Jotun was not a big deal to her.

"They make me eat it. Not even Odin was able to stop them," Loki mumbled, trying to hide his now mixed feelings. Now it makes sense why she's scared of me...

"Loki," Frigga chastised, "We do not make you eat it. I only wanted you to try it. If you no longer wish to have it, just say so."

Loki went quiet at her statement, not sure what to say. Desi watched them closely, then smiled and turned to Frigga. "Just go along with it." She advised.

Laney smiled. "Desi also knows some sociology. She studies the behavior of others." She looked over at Loki, then reached out to grab his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, knowing that he felt uncomfortable. I'll have to talk to him this evening.

"I think I know where her main skills are, but we can talk about that later." Frigga said, not wanting to make it even more uncomfortable for Loki.

"You have me eager to see my brother now, just to avoid this conversation." Loki sighed, but held Laney's hand and moved closer to her.

Frigga chuckled as she popped a ball of melon in her mouth. "I could call for him if you'd like. It looks like he's done for the day, it is getting quite warm."

"We might have to go inside before long," Laney suggested, "Or we could go for a swim, ask Thor to join us too maybe."

"I am fine with swimming or going inside, whatever the ladies want to do." Loki said sincerely.

"I didn't bring anything to swim in." Desi said, blushing softly.

"I might have something that will fit you," Laney replied with a smile, "If you are up for a swim that is."

"I would love to go for a swim! Should we go in and get ready?" Desi asked excitedly.

Laney nodded and stood. "Loki, would you mind asking your brother if he wants to join while I take Desi to our rooms to find something for her to swim in?"

"I will, but only because you're cute." Loki grinned. When he stood, he bent down and pecked Laney's lips, then walked off to meet up with Thor.

"Does this mean we get girl time?" Desi asked, standing and taking Laney's arm.

"Yes it does," Laney laughed. "Frigga we will see you at the evening meal I assume?"

Frigga nodded and smiled. "Yes dears, you have fun."

Laney led Desi through the halls and back to her and Loki's rooms. Once she shut the door behind her, she walked over to the cupboard in the bedroom and began searching for something Desi could wear. "So, tell me your thoughts," she stated while she rummaged.

"Thoughts on what?" Desi asked, a little distracted from looking around again. "Your chambers are bigger than my entire place." She giggled.

She looked over her shoulder and chuckled. "About Loki, about being here... everything." Laney turned back to continue looking through her things, finding a top.

"Well, first, Loki is cuter than I thought, and nicer." She said, trying to wrap her head around everything she had seen so far. "The palace is amazing, the queen is very kind... I'm just really happy for you Laney." She said sincerely.

Laney found a pair of thin shorts, shut the cupboard, then turned to face Desi. "He's so amazing Desi, I have no complaints about him whatsoever," she said, "Although I wish he thought better about himself. You aren't scared of him are you?"

"I... kind of... but not because he's Jotun. He was the first member of royalty I've met, and the royal family is kind of intimidating. Not just him, I feel the same about the queen and Prince Thor." She admitted, wanting to be honest with her best friend. "I am just a commoner after all..."

"Don't worry about any of that. You're a guest of the palace, which is special," Laney explained, "You may want to clarify it to Loki though, he's very perceptive." She handed Desi the clothes, holding another pair for herself in her hand.

"What do you mean? Does he think I have an issue with his heritage?" Desi asked, a bit confused. She took the clothes and started to change right there, not embarrassed to change in front of Laney.

Laney removed her wrap, then her top, so she could change into the other one. "His demeanor changed when you asked about the fruit, so I assume he's gone to conclusions in his head."

"I didn't mean to upset him, and I will explain when we see him again. I honestly was just hoping to try the food. Once you get out of the palace and immediate areas, the Jotnar are just seen as people. We aren't raised to hate them or any of that." She explained, pulling the new clothes on. "Just so you know, he likes the food. But he doesn't want to admit it, so he keeps it in his head that you make him eat it. It is the only way he can mentally handle it right now."

She smiled as she shimmied out of her bottoms to put on another pair, then faced her friend again. "I kind of thought that was the case. I let him believe what he wants right now."

"Have you seen his Jotun form? I have heard they look very impressive." Desi said, then pulled her hair up into a ponytail for swimming.

Laney shook her head as she grabbed her wrap. "No, I have not. But I've seen his Aesir form."

"What about his nude form?" She asked, teasing Laney.

A bright blush brightened Laney's cheeks. "I may have, a few times. But what I wrote is true, we haven't had sex... in the conventional sense."

"I only asked if you had seen him nude." She giggled. "Is he good in bed?"

"If I didn't add it, you would have asked me anyway." She grabbed another wrap from the closet and handed it to Desi. "I can only judge on what we've done, and that's been amazing."

"Of course I would have asked! I need to know everything! Have you done things in the library?" She asked since she had seen how comfortable they were in the library and how unsurprised the matron had been.

She shook her head as she headed towards the door. "No, that was the only time we'd done that. Although I'm tempted to go to the pond tonight. I'm becoming bolder with him... more comfortable."

"Oh really? And what do you plan on doing at the pond?" Desi teased. "And, why haven't you gone all the way with him yet? I know you haven't officially been together long, but you've been friends and loved each other forever..." She said, just curious.

Laney shrugged as she opened the door and led the way out, closing it behind her. "Loki tells me he wants it to be special and I do too, but it's been getting harder to resist if I am honest."

"Have you tried telling him you're ready?" She asked, walking out with Laney. "Or do you think you'll wait until after you're married?"

"I do not want to seem too eager if that makes sense. We've barely been courting for a month." They continued to walk through the halls at a leisurely pace, heading towards the training courtyard.

"It makes perfect sense. And if you had only just met, I wouldn't even bring it up. But with how much history the two of you have, I think that changes things a bit." Desi shrugged. "It's entirely up to you though, it's just my responsibility as best friend to know every single detail." She joked.

Laney laughed as they rounded a corner and she opened a door that led outside. "Maybe you're right. I will talk with him tonight, ask his thoughts. Oh, and do not worry about Thor when you meet him, he's a kind soul."

"I don't know that I will ever get used to being around royalty. Even though I brought my very best clothes, the maids look better dressed than me." She sighed, but it was mostly just her nervousness and self consciousness. As they walked closer, they could hear a mix of trash talk that clearly signaled a sparring match was underway.

"You'll be fine," Laney replied with a chuckle, "It sounds like Thor talked Loki into sparring."

"You've gotten slow brother!" Thor chided playfully as he blocked another of Loki's attacks.

"Better slow of body than slow of mind, brother." Loki retorted, launching himself at Thor.

Thor laughed as he stepped to the side and out of his reach. "You have lost your touch Loki, you need to practice more."

Loki wiped his bare arm over his brow to stop a few beads of sweat from rolling into his eyes. He readied himself for his next attack, looking fierce in the late afternoon sun. When he caught sight of Laney across the courtyard, he lost his graceful pose, tripped over his own feet, and landed in the dirt at his brothers feet. Way to go, I'm sure that impressed her... Loki sarcastically thought to himself.

Laney bit her lip and turned her head down, not wanting him to see her smile at his mishap. "It seems that I distract my bedmate dear Desi." She looked up in time to see Loki stand and shake it off, his lean body glistening in the sun. "Although I could say the feeling is mutual."

Loki vanished his daggers then abandoned his brother and walked across the courtyard. "You should warn me before you walk up, looking that sexy." Loki jokingly complained.

Thor stopped laughing at his brother when he saw Desi standing there beside Laney and quickly followed his brother. "It is a pleasure to meet you." He greeted and gave her a little bow while taking her hand and kissing it.

"It's nice to meet you too." Desi said shyly.

"I did nothing out of the norm Loki," Laney countered with a sweet smile. "Enjoy your session?"

"Yet there you are, looking sexy." Loki chuckled, trying to brush dirt off his chest. He was still sweating and his leather trousers were ripped in several places along his legs.

Laney glanced between Thor and Desi with a grin as she stepped up to Loki and put her arm around his waist, not caring about the sweat. "I could say the same about you," she murmured to him as she squeezed his hip.

"Me? But I'm a sweaty mess." Loki chuckled, but held Laney close. "Are we going swimming now?"

"I don't mind a little sweat," Laney flirted, then turned towards Thor. "We're fixing to go to the willow pond for a swim, would you like to join us?"

Thor put on his megawatt smile. "I'd be delighted!" He beamed. "I assume it will be all of us?"

"All four of us," Laney confirmed.

Desi turned a brighter shade of red when she saw how Thor smiled. "Can we walk separately?" She asked Laney, having a few questions to ask along the way.

Laney smirked. "Loki dear, why don't you and Thor lead the way and we'll be right behind you. I think Desi is a bit shy."

"Alright darling." Loki agreed and gave Laney a soft kiss before walking ahead. "Come on brother."

She watched as Thor quickly moved to catch up with Loki's long strides as they all began walking. "What's up?" Laney asked. "Is something wrong?"

Desi tilted her head slightly, watching Thor walk away. "Yes there's something wrong... he's going to be half naked to go swimming!" She said, blushing deeply.

Laney threw her head back and laughed as she took Desi's hand to get her to start walking. "Do you see something you like?" She asked, still giggling.

"No!" She said, a little too fast, her voice a little high. "You are enjoying this aren't you?" she asked, walking with Laney. I guess it's alright to look, right?

"Maybe a little," she admitted, "But just try to be yourself. Thor is harmless and is a lot of fun to be around. He's alone if The Warriors Three are not following behind him, so I think it's good that he gets time with all of us today."

Desi gave a soft sigh. "I've heard of the warriors. They sound like a truly fierce team to go up against." She admitted, in awe. "Why me though? I'm only here for a week and I have nothing to keep his interest."

"Did you see the way he looked at you?" Laney asked as the path below their feet turned to dirt. "I think there's plenty of interest to be held. I know you aren't here for long, but I feel everyone can use more friends. To me you're a part of my family, so it's natural that you meet the part of mine that you never had the chance to meet until now."

Desi shook her head. "He didn't look at me like anything. Friends sounds reasonable though. And since I plan to visit often, I suppose it's good we at least know who each other is..." she said, mostly trying to convince herself. As they came into view of the pond, she could see both guys had stripped down to just their shorts.

Laney sighed. "Guys have it so much easier. All they have to do is strip off their trousers and swim in their underwear while we have to completely change into another outfit." As they got closer she watched as Thor and Loki climbed atop a large rock, then jumped into the water. "I'm not complaining though, the view is nice."

"Comments like that don't help." Desi said, still blushing. When they reached the rocks, she took her wrap off, feeling very self conscious in the bikini.

"The water is nice and warm, hurry up!" Loki called out to the girls, causing Laney to look towards them.

"We're coming!" Laney hollered back as she removed her wrap, then climbed atop the same large rock the boys had jumped from. She turned to look behind her, seeing that Desi didn't look quite comfortable. "Des, it's fine. If you want to stay out of the water, I'm not going to make you swim."

"N-no, I want to swim." Desi said, then joined Laney on the rock. "You can go first though."

"Do I need to come up there and get you?" Loki asked Laney, just teasing her. He glanced over at Thor to see him watching Desi. "You should get to know her." He encouraged his brother.

Thor shrugged as he continued to watch, a smile on his face. "She is pretty..."

"She is very nice." Loki pointed out, as he watched Laney back up to the edge of the rock before she took off at a run and dived into the water to the side of them, then moved so she would surface right into his arms.

Desi jumped in after Laney, doing more of a cannonball and landing not far from Thor.

Thor chuckled as he watched Loki hold tightly onto Laney while he helped her move her hair from her face. He's changed so much...

"Okay, I have the best ideas," Laney said as she put one arm around Loki's neck. "This water feels amazing."

"Other than being a bit warm, it is very nice. We will definitely have to sneak away tonight." Loki said softly so only Laney could hear. Her responding smirk sealed the deal. He knew they'd be back out here later.

Desi went to turn, wanting to return to the rock to jump again, when she slipped on a moss covered rock and fell against Thor. "Oh gods! I'm so sorry!" She said, straightening herself as quickly as she could.

Thor quickly grasped onto Desi's elbow to help her balance. "Are you alright?" He asked, his voice concerned.

Laney turned in Loki's embrace at the sound of Desi, only to smile softly. "Des you alright?"

"Y-yes, I'm fine. I just slipped." Desi told them both, feeling like she might die of embarrassment. His grip is so strong... no, don't even think about it!

"The rocks can be quite slick Lady Desi. We do not want you to injure yourself," Thor said softly as he helped her to reach the shore and found a rock to sit upon.

"I really am fine, just embarrassed." Desi admitted, sitting on the rock. She couldn't help but admire his muscle tone this close.

Meanwhile Laney moved to perch on Loki's back, her arms around his neck, and her legs around his waist. "I think they just might hit it off," she murmured into his ear.

"It will be good for them both," Loki agreed. "Am I supposed to swim with you on my back?" He asked, amused.

"Do you want me to get off?" Laney asked.

"No, you're fine. I was just teasing." Loki chuckled, placing his hands over Laney's.

"So, Loki tells me you're visiting from Yamir. I am happy that you have been with Laney through everything. It's been hard on them both until now."

Desi nodded. "Yes, I'll be visiting every few weeks. Laney is my best friend, she's been there for me as well." She said truthfully. "They are both so happy now that they are finally together."

Thor smiled. "I am happy for them as well," he replied as he watched Laney snuggle into Loki's neck. "It will be nice to get to see you again. I feel we could become good friends, you and I."

"That would be nice. I don't have many friends here." Desi said, blushing softly. She also looked over to watch Loki and Laney. "They are the perfect couple."

"Don't tell him that I told you, but he's been smitten with her since he was a mere lanky teen," Thor replied as he leaned back onto his elbows, his wet hair now knotted in the ponytail he'd had it in.

Desi nodded and couldn't help but notice how the sun reflected off the water drops that covered his skin. As soon as she caught herself staring, she looked at Laney to distract herself. "It's the same for Laney, she fell in love with Loki as a teen. She was just scared to tell him."

Thor watched her from the corner of his eye and smirked. It felt good to have someone admiring him again. "Have you enjoyed yourself so far?" He asked.

"I have, the palace is incredible and the people are very nice." She blushed deeper when she realized he knew she had been admiring him. Get a grip, he's a prince! She reminded herself.

Feeling warm again, Thor slid from the rock and back into the water, then turned to face Desi. "Well I hope to see you this eve, maybe even get a dance?"

"D-dance? Alright, if you ask me to dance, I will accept." She promised, then went back into the water as well. She watched as Thor nodded at her, then ducked under the surface to wet his hair. Seeing an opportunity to escape momentarily, she swam over to Laney. "We have a problem..." she told her, but found herself glancing over in Thor's direction.

Laney lifted her head from Loki's shoulder and furrowed her brow, then glanced at Thor, seeing him floating out on his back. "What problem would that be?"

"He wants me to dance with him later... I don't know how to dance!" Desi explained exasperatedly.

"Relax Desi," Laney comforted, "Thor is a wonderful dancer and will lead you effortlessly. Right Loki?"

"Thor is a lead footed buffoon that will step on her toes." Loki chuckled. "Learning to dance is easy though. Just teach her a few simple dance moves and everything will be fine." He promised Laney.

Laney rolled her eyes. Why did I ask? "Desi, if you'd like, I can show you the basics before the evening meal."

"Will you please? I can't believe he actually wants to dance with me!" she said, flustered by the very thought.

She chuckled as she snuggled against Loki. "Yes Desi, I will help you."

"Thank you so much! He is the most beautiful man I have ever seen!" She giggled, making Loki roll his eyes but chuckle along with the girls.

"I knew you would like him," Laney giggled, then kissed Loki's cheek. "Behave," she whispered into his ear.

"For the first time in my life, I wish I wasn't a commoner." Desi sighed, glancing over at Thor again.

Come on, there's no way he looks better than me! Loki silently whined with a huff. He tilted his head to the side, resting against Laney's arm while he continued to listen to them.

"Desi, I've told you once, you're a guest of the palace, status isn't a huge thing," Laney explained, "You're a well established healer among other things, so don't give up on something that hasn't even started. Alright?"

Desi nodded. "My head is just so foggy right now. He already said he just wants to be friends. I just need to calm down." Deep breath and stop panicking! She reminded herself.

Laney shrugged. "Just see where things lead, you never know what will happen. Look at us." She smiled and kissed Loki's cheek again, seeing him barely blush.

Desi teasingly rolled her eyes. "Everyone knew where this would lead," She joked as she pointed between them. "You finally got together and someday you'll get married and have the perfect family." She said, not noticing the way Loki tensed.

"A family someday would be nice... but I'm happy with the way things are right now too," Laney answered as she let one arm move to wrap around Loki's chest and splashed her with the other.

Meanwhile Thor had moved to the center of the pond, lying on his back as he stared up at the clouds. He could hear them talking but could not make out any words. I wonder if Jane would like Desi? If Jane would even care...

Desi gave a little nod. "What do you think he's thinking about?" She asked Laney, focused on Thor again.

"Why don't you go chat with him?" She asked, "We won't mind."

Desi gave her a little smile. "Alright, but just for a few minutes. I still need to learn how to dance." She giggled and hugged Laney as best as she could before heading towards the center of the pond. The water was too deep for her to stand, but she was a decent swimmer and had no trouble staying above the water. "You look troubled, is everything alright?" She softly asked Thor.

Thor tilted his head to the side at the sound of Desi's voice to see that she was swimming beside him. He righted himself with a smile. "I am alright. Just thinking is all. There's been an increasing amount of things on my mind as of late."

"Would you like to talk about anything? I am a healer, so anything you tell me can remain confidential." She promised him.

"I do not know if you could help what is on my mind fair lady," he replied, his voice almost sorrowful.

"Even if I can't, it might help just to have a friend to talk to." Desi said, then looked back at Laney. "There's been many times Laney could not offer me a solution, but just being able to talk to her helped ease my mind."

Thor found himself smiling at her. "You're very sweet," he said quietly as his blue eyes locked onto her chocolate ones. "I guess most of it is pressure from my father."

Desi gave a little nod. "Is he wanting you to take the throne before you're ready?" She asked, not wanting to assume it was his Midgardian interests.

"He would like me to become king, but I do not know if it is something I want," he admitted, "I cannot see myself over my people. I do not know why."

Desi thought it over for a moment, before responding. "Every group needs someone to lead them, but why not have a mutual respect? Like, they understand you are their leader, and you understand a king is only as strong as his people..."

"My father leads with a fist of iron. Everyone respects him. I'm just not good at everything that it would take. Honestly Loki understands far more about the court and trade dealings and such. So does Laney." Thor let himself sink below the surface of the water for a moment, doing his best to hide his frustration from her before it showed on his face, then resurfaced running a hand over his face.

Desi just watched Thor for a moment, as he resurfaced. "While I mean no disrespect to the king... I have never found ruling with an iron fist to be effective. There can be a lot of fear mixed into that respect. If you rule with kindness, your people will love you and be truly loyal to you. As for trade and court, you can have advisors to help." She explained, trying to encourage him and boost his confidence a bit.

"I doubt I will be allowed the advisor that I truly wish for," Thor replied as he glanced over at Loki, who had just tossed Laney into the water, which made him chuckle. He reached out and placed a hand on Desi's shoulder in a sign of friendship. "I do feel a little lighter since talking to you. Normally I have the warriors, but sometimes they can be a bit much about some things no matter how much I love them." He let his hand trail down her shoulder a bit before he pulled away, a smile on his face.

How is it even possible for a warrior's hands to be so soft? Desi mentally sighed when he touched her shoulder. "I am always here to listen, anytime you need someone to talk to." She promised sincerely, before giving him a little grin. "I think I see your problem though... you need too much approval from your father. As a king loved by his people, they would trust the advisor you wish to have."

Thor thought about her words for a few moments as he tread water. "It would take a lot of battling, but I would love for Loki to be at my side when the time comes. His opinion means a lot to me even though he can be brash at times, although I'm not sure he knows that." He sighed and grinned at her again. "I think you're more than a healer dear Desi if you're able to help my rattled mind."

Desi shook her head. "If you want him as an advisor, make him an advisor. You would be king, so it really is that simple." She kind of shrugged, which was hard while wading in the water. "I really am just a healer." She said, blushing softly.

"Your mind knows more than healing, I can tell it," he praised. His eyes were soft when he looked at her. I find myself wanting to pull her into my arms. Thor was about to speak again when a wave of water dumped onto his head, making him sputter. He looked towards the known culprit to see Loki sitting on one of the rocks laughing, his head thrown back in joy. It had been a long time since he was pranked by his brother.

Desi blushed deeper red, feeling lost is his blue eyes. She was trying to find the words when Loki splashed Thor. "If he's going to be your advisor, you two should work on reconnecting." She said with a smile, encouraging him to go spend time with his brother. "Laney and I have some plans before supper, you can keep Loki company."

Thor laughed and shook his head at Loki. "I'll try, if he will grace me with his presence," he replied as he began making his way back towards the shore, making sure Desi was right behind him.

"Don't be silly, he wouldn't turn you away." Desi giggled, following close behind. When they returned to shore, she went over to the rocks and sat there to dry off, but also to just think for a few minutes.

Laney had done a simple spell to dry herself and found a sandy place on the shore to lay out in the sun, letting the guys have their much needed bonding time. Meanwhile Thor sat beside his still chuckling brother as he shook his head at him. "Still the trickster," he said with a smile.

"Always the trickster." Loki chuckled. "You looked like you were enjoying the company of our guest." He teased.

Thor felt himself blush, but did his best to hide it as he leaned back and cleared his throat. "She's a sweet woman, and very smart."

"I saw the way you were looking at her. That is why I sent the wave at you." Loki admitted, still grinning.

"I don't know brother. I find myself being reluctant toward any woman these days," he replied with a sigh.

"I'm not saying you should jump into something, only that you should keep an open mind." He clarified. "I know you still miss Jane, but I don't want you to miss out on something truly special, just because you are still upset."

Thor nodded. "I understand what you speak brother, but it is hard. I thought that we both truly cared for each other. A lot has happened since your fall."

Loki's smile faded some. "What did happen between you and Jane? No one will tell me anything that happened during my absence."

"After your fall... I was stuck here because the Bifrost was destroyed during our fight. I could not contact Jane, but Hiemdall said that she constantly searched for me. When I did return to Midgard it was not until father helped me, because Hiemdall found you were alive," he said, the memories in the forefront of his mind. "I never visited her the entire time I was there, but I did write to her and give the letter to Eric. I do not know if she received it."

"Why didn't you visit her? Odin couldn't have stopped you once you were on Midgard, and don't you dare say it was because of me..."

He shrugged and looked up at the sky. "Between helping The Avengers and doing my best to be a part of their team, it just never came to mind until Eric came into play. All I could do was write a short letter and hope that I would hear back from her while I was there, but I never received any contact."

"I am sorry brother, truly." Loki said, and meant it. "You say contacting her didn't even come to mind though. I think that says a lot..."

"I fear you may be right," he agreed, "She was a sweet person to be around and I thought I could love her... but I do not think love is what I felt. It wasn't like what you have with Laney."

Loki nodded. "It happens. I tried to love others after Laney left. There were even a few I really thought I could, but it isn't something you can force. With the right one, you just know." He shrugged, not sure how to explain it.

Thor looked over at Loki and smiled. "Look at you getting mushy," he said with a chuckle. "I like seeing this side of you."

"Shut up." Loki chuckled. He did feel very light hearted right now. "The girls are going to return to the chambers, so we can go spar again, if you want."

"If you'd like," Thor replied. "Mother will be wanting us clean for the evening meal though. You know how she is."

"She knows us well enough though." Loki chuckled, remembering all the times they had turned up at the table filthy from playing outside.

Thor stood with a laugh, then held out his hand and helped Loki to stand. "That is true." He turned towards Laney and Desi, who were both laying out on the sand now. "We are going to spar before the evening meal ladies."

Laney sat up on her elbows at Thor's statement, a smile on her face. "Alright! You two behave... no injuries please."

"I promise I won't hurt him too much." Loki joked, blowing Laney a kiss before they left.