Hi Gus!

So here we are at chapter four, thank you all for coming back and continuing to read this story. If you're here for the first time, welcome and I'm so grateful that you've decided to check this out, I hope you like it.

Thank you as always to everyone who has liked, faved and reviewed I love hearing from you all and if you have any questions or suggestions I will always try to answer you, either in the next chapter notes or with a PM if I think we might be hitting spoiler territory.

Adding to that a Guest asked me how old Loki is here. So in my last story Loki was the equivalent of an eleven year old and really he hasn't aged much in looks since then seen as (and this is my own head canon maths so please forgive me) for me to age one Asgardian/Jotun year seventy six years on Midgard would have to pass. Asgardians and Jotuns, for me anyway age very differently to Humans, much slower and since in cannon they appear to live for around five thousand years this was the simplest maths I could come up with. So in Midgardian years Loki eight hundred and thirty seven. I hope this answers some questions for some people, if not then its maths and my maths isn't the best so please don't yell at me.

So moving on I hope you all enjoy this chapter and lets get on with the show!

Cheers!

D.S x

Disclaimer: I do not own Thor, the Avengers or any other of Marvel's various properties

4

The rest of breakfast was a quiet affair, Loki unsure how to take the news that Thor was going to fight Amora on Midgard. Both of his parents had assured him that it was not a big deal, more like a small outing than the retrieval of a known traitor to the crown. However, Loki was not fooled. Amora would not allow herself to be taken easily, plus she had her Seidr, Thor would struggle to combat that with just his brute strength and Mjolnir. Of course, Loki knew that his Brother had matured, especially since his banishment, but that did not mean that he would not underestimate Amora, simply because she used Seidr and not a sword or axe.

Then there were the Midgardians to take into consideration. No matter how his Father phrased it, Loki was sure that the people of Midgard would not take kindly to a Prince from another Realm coming to their home, even if it was to end a fight that had been started by an Asgardian. From what Loki had observed when Thor was last on Midgard, the mortals had become fiercely independent, with ways and rules of their own. They would not appreciate Asgard sticking their nose into what could be considered their business.

But Loki didn't say any of these things to his parents, merely nodded and smiled when his Mother told him not to worry. He was thankful when it was time to head for his lessons, but he had trouble concentrating on them.

The Masters didn't comment, but Loki knew that he was not acting like his usual self. But his mind was in too much of a muddle to be able to care about it. His thoughts were fixated on Amora and the impending battle that she would have with Thor. He worried, of course he did. Thor was his big Brother and he would have no back up. Odin had explained that he would only be able to send Thor alone, as gathering Dark Energy was difficult and was even a risk to the caster. The idea of Dark Energy tickled Loki's interest for a brief moment. His Father had practically forbidden him for asking questions about it, which just made it all the more fascinating to the Young Prince. However, it was quickly eclipsed by Amora and more importantly the feeling of anger.

Why did it have to be Thor that got to fight her? As far as Loki was concerned, Amora had done nothing to his Brother when she had helped Erling with his coup. In fact, she had been doing it all for Thor, at least in her mind. Loki had been raised an Asgardian, and to an Asgardian they believed in many basic principles. One of them being, an eye for an eye. Amora had tried to kill Loki, had set out to throw him off the Rainbow Bridge with her. So why was it that Loki wasn't allowed to go and face her and have his revenge?

Oh, he knew the main reason, he was still a child, on Midgard and even on Asgard. But he was old enough to start his warrior training, training that would, more than likely lead to killing someone one day. Loki wasn't a fool. Asgard was the protector of the Nine Realms, they were first into battle and the last to leave it. It may be a time of peace now, but Loki had no doubt that war would come again, it was inevitable.

So, why couldn't he be the one to face Amora? Didn't he deserve his own revenge? And what about Alviss? The man had no family, having never married, dedicating himself to the House of Odin. He had no one to demand that they be given satisfaction for his unlawful death.

A tap to his head forced him from his thoughts, he turned to see his tutor, scowling at him from across the table.

"Master?" Loki asked, to which they snorted.

"It is good that you have finally decided to answer me, Young Prince," Loki blushed even as his tutor continued to scold him. "If you are quiet finished staring into space, could you tell me the names of the leading Generals in Bor's campaign against the Dark Elves?"

Loki was swift to escape his tutors when the sun reached high in the sky. During this time, he was supposed to eat and change into his leathers ready for the Cohort, but the Young Prince found himself wandering the Palace. Hoping that maybe spending some time with his thoughts would allow him to sort through the mess they had become. He'd sent Leif away earlier, not wanting his Valet to be stuck hanging around when he was in this frame of mind. It was not fair to the boy, and Loki wasn't one to inflict his ire onto others.

He made his way to the less open areas of the Palace, away from the servants, maids and other Nobles. He found himself surprisingly passing by the open door of the Palace kitchens. Loki had rarely been inside, his Mother saying it was not a place for someone of his station.

Of course, the idea of forbidden fruit had called to Loki, and his penchant for mischief, so he had snuck into the kitchen in the dead of night. He'd marvelled at the various pots and pans that were hanging from the ceiling. Along with the roaring fire, that even though the kitchen was deserted still had embers in the bottom, ready to be relit come the morning. It was as he had been admiring the crackling flames that he had been caught. Unknown to Loki, someone always remained in the kitchen, even when the rest of the staff had long since left. The young cook had awoken to see a shadow before the fireplace and on instinct, had grabbed a pan and smacked it at the figures head. Loki had gone down like a sack of grain, completely unconscious.

With the uproar that had followed, Loki was glad that he had been knocked out. The young cook had been mortified and had started screaming. The screaming had alerted the guards, who had awoken the closest Palace staff, who had then rushed to Odin and Frigga's bed chamber to rouse them. By the time Loki had come around, he'd been surrounded by various worried faces, all of whom had cowered under the wrath of a furious Eir, who had a hard time keeping them out of the Healing Hall.

Loki couldn't stop a smile from lifting the corners of his mouth at the memory. He may have ended up with a concussion, and a harsh scolding from Frigga, but it had been a great adventure.

As he passed by, the sounds of the kitchen came out to greet him, plus the enticing smells of succulent meat and other foods. But it was not that which made Loki slow his pace, then stop to hang back beside the cracked door. No, for accompanying the usual sounds and smells of the kitchen, came the voice of his Valet.

"Y…you take that b…back!"

"What are you going to do? Stutter me to death?"

Loki frowned, unable to stop his curiosity, he pushed the door slightly wider, so he could peer into the kitchen. The stoves were already roaring, with fire filling their caverns to heat the numerous pots and pans hanging over the top, one even had a whole boar spitted, turning slowly over the flames. Several kitchen staff were cutting, cleaning and slicing at tables that were scattered about the space, but it was the one near the centre that had Loki's attention. A group of young men were sat around it, munching on bread and water, most likely Palace servants on a break from their duties. But it was one in particular that made Loki scowl, he was tall, with a thin frame, but he loomed over Leif, who was glaring up at his fellow servant.

"D…don't talk a…about Prince Loki t…that way!" Leif declared, somehow managing to sound serious, even through all the stuttering. The taller servant sneered, looking down his nose at Leif.

"I only state what is true," he scoffed. "Prince Loki is a weak, pathetic -" the rest of the words were lost as Leif growled, launching himself at the other, toppling them both to the hard flag stones. Loki gaped as he watched his Valet roll around on the floor, punching and kicking at the other with all the ferocity of a wild cat.

"Fool," he muttered in shocked concern. The boy had only just received a beating the day before. Now he was risking his limbs in a fight he had started; Loki was astounded by the sheer lunacy.

The others who had been eating were quick to get to their feet, surrounding the boys to chant.

"Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The Young Prince stared as Leif tried to strike at the other, only to end up with an elbow to the face. The fight quickly turned in the other boy's favour, as he followed up with a punch to the gut, causing Leif to gasp. Loki hissed, pushing at the door to intercede, his Valet had been abused enough, but at that moment a large booming voice echoed over the cry of the boys.

"What in all of the Nine is going on here?!"

The effect was instantaneous, the crowing boys swiftly scattered, making a beeline for the various exits that lined the kitchen. However, Leif and his opponent either didn't hear of didn't heed the shout, as they continued to wrestle. That was all stopped though when a large, rounded woman stalked over to them, grabbing each by the scruff of the neck and hauling them to their feet.

"What do the pair of you think you're doing in my kitchen?!" the roar was deafening, though it earned a few chuckles from some of the working kitchen staff. But with a glare from the woman, they quickly returned to work. Leif looked like a deer caught in a predator's claws, while the taller boy grunted, wiping a trickle of blood from his nose.

"He started it," he muttered, but it just earned him a harsh shake.

"I don't care who started it Jari," the woman scolded, not relenting in her grip. "The pair of you know better than to make such a scene in my kitchen."

"Sorry Ma," Loki was surprised to hear both mutter. He didn't know Leif had a brother, of course he was aware that his Mother was the head of the kitchen staff, but he had never mentioned a brother.

"I don't want to hear your apologies," she huffed, dumping the two of them back on the floor, where they scrambled to get up on their feet.

"Ah, by easy on them Vigdis," one of the kitchen workers called. "Boys will be boys after all."

Vigdis looked ready to flay the man alive, but with a sniff from Leif her attention was back on the two before her. "Well, what started this display?"

Jari snorted, glancing away, so Leif spoke up. "He w…was talking falsely o…of P…Prince Loki."

Loki was surprised by the amount of anger in his Valet's tone. Of course, he had expected Leif to defend him, he was his servant after all. But that was more in the context of a professional relationship. He had never imaged Leif would fight for his name in his personal time as well.

Vigdis sighed, turning exasperated eyes to Jari. "Son."

"I didn't say anything false," Jari protested, sending his brother an annoyed look. "Everyone knows it was Prince Loki's fault that Alviss fell. All the other staff -" Jari didn't get to speak another word however, as Vigdis smacked him upside the head with an almighty crack.

"I'll have none of those words being said in my kitchen," she bellowed.

"But Ma -"

"But nothing," Vigdis hissed and Loki couldn't help but back away at her anger along with her two sons. "What happened to Alviss was not the fault of the Young Prince. Alviss died how he would have wished it, protecting a member of the Royal family."

"But Alviss -"

"And Alviss would not appreciate any of the rumour mongers making a mockery of his sacrifice," Vigdis almost seemed to be announcing it to the kitchen. A few glanced away, unable to hold her fierce glare. Loki marked the few who did, it would come in useful for later.

Jari bit his lip, looking ready to argue again, but Vigdis had moved on to Leif. "Be that as it may, that does not give you the right to engage in fights, Leif."

The smaller boy hung his head but mumbled quietly. "I a…am Prince Loki's V…Valet, it's my d…duty t…to defend him from t…these sorts of words."

"That may be true," Vigdis placed her hands on her hips as she stared him down. "But there is a difference between defending the Young Prince and making a situation spin out of control."

"It wasn't -" Leif started to protest, but Vigdis cut him short.

"It wasn't out of control?" Vigdis finished for him with a frown. "Leif, letting your temper control your actions is doing nothing for Prince Loki but making the situation worse."

Leif kept silent, neither agreeing nor disagreeing with his Mother. Jari then huffed.

"Is that all he's going to get?" he complained, earning himself a growl from his brother. "He hit me first you know."

"A hit you more than likely deserved," Vigdis said. "How many times do I have to tell you to watch your words, Jari, especially when in my kitchen?"

Jari scowled but clenched his fists to stop a more than likely angry response. "Fine Ma, I can't speak my words in your kitchen, then I will speak them elsewhere." With that he stalked out, pushing a teetering stack of pots over in his wake so they landed with a clang on the stones. Leif flinched, but Vigdis merely sighed as he disappeared out of sight.

"That boy," she muttered, but Loki didn't hear the rest. Backing up and making a break away from the kitchen, deeper into the Palace. He hadn't meant to linger so long, spying was not something that Loki wished to be known for, but he just couldn't help himself. Leif defending him the way he did, from his own brother at that. It was more than Loki had ever expected from his Valet when he had set him on. And Loki had no doubt what kind of words Leif had felt the need to defend him from. It was no secret to him what some of the staff thought of him, that he was in some way responsible for what had happened to Alviss, be it because the old Steward had felt the need to die for him, or because of it. Some truly felt as though Loki was to blame for what had happened. And at times, especially after a night terror that would haunt him unto the morning, Loki was hard pressed not to believe it to. But seeing Leif, so angry and willing to fight for him, it made a part of Loki wonder if that was what it was like to have friends.

The Young Prince had not been able to avoid the Cohort, much as he would have preferred to head to his room and practice Seidr. Master Harold had set them to individual training, though that was after a fierce mock free for all battle, to which Loki had had the unfortunate experience of being ganged up on by Sven and his cronies. He hadn't even lasted until the last ten, forced to retire with the numbers against him. However, Sven seemed content with beating him into the ground as he had left him alone since.

Loki weighed the wooden spear in his hand, his grip was getting better along the shaft, and his fingers no longer bled if he practiced with it too long. Ever since he had trained with Tyr, Loki had kept working on his technique and it had soon become a favoured weapon for the Young Prince. It wasn't as heavy as the numerous swords and axes that his fellows preferred, but that was to Loki's advantage. He had always been fast, quick on his feet and agile. The spear allowed him to keep that aspect of himself but added to his reach. Loki had contemplated that it would make casting Seidr easier, especially if he could keep his distance, as Seidr was not good within close quarters, risking injury to the caster. But with the spear, he would be able to create distance, just enough for him to avoid any serious damage. Of course, he had yet to cast any Seidr while in the Cohort. Master Harold frowned upon it most profusely and had punished Loki severely when he had caught him doing it during his fist few moons.

Pushing those thoughts away, Loki easily got into stance, placing the spear at his hip, thrusting forward at one of the wooden dummies that had been set up for the boys to use, striking it cleanly in the throat.

"A great aim, though your opponent would have to be on the smaller side for you to have such a shot."

Spinning, Loki couldn't help but grin at the one who had addressed him. "Fandral!"

The blonde warrior smiled, saluting airily as he came up to the Prince. "You seem so happy to see me, Prince Loki, should I be worried that your Brother will be coming after me for breaking your heart?"

"Shut it." Loki hissed, smacking at the warrior's arm, which did little to make the grin stretching his lips vanish.

"My, what a fierce thing you've become."

"What are you doing here?" Loki asked, unable to stop his own smile. "I thought you were still on patrol with the Northern flank?"

That made Fandral waver, the smile slipping as he tugged on his leather vest and amour. The appointment with the Northern flank was still new to the Asgardian and Loki felt a small twinge of pity for him. The Warriors Three and Sif had all be reassigned after the incident the year before. Hogan as a leading Captain for their forces in Vanaheim, his homeland. Volstagg to the Home Guard, much to the large man's annoyance, though Loki was sure his wife felt quite the opposite. Fandral went to the Northern flank, a branch of the army that dealt with the patrols of Asgard, excelling in horseback riding. And finally, Sif to the Boarder Guard. Thor had been disappointed, though he had understood. The group had gone against the express instructions of their King, even if their intentions were the best, they interfered with the All-Father's punishment of his son. Then there was Sif.

Loki winced at the thought of the warrior woman. Even after all that had happened, when they had returned to Asgard, she had not been able to let go of her hate for him. The All-Father had also not taken the threat to end his younger son's life well. Loki was sure that Thor had done some fast pleading, which had saved Sif from a sterner punishment, but it hadn't been enough to keep his band together. Loki couldn't say that he was unhappy to see them go, Thor needed to learn to grow and possibly, with the Warrior's and Sif out of the picture, he would manage to do so.

Fandral ran a hand through his hair. "We just got back from another patrol; the General is reporting to the All-Father."

"Anything interesting?"

"You know I wouldn't be able to tell you if there was."

"But I'm the Prince, Fandral. You're supposed to do as I say," Loki pouted, which earned him a chuckle from the other. Once the two had calmed, Fandral straightened, furtively glancing at the other practising boys and Master Harold before leaning in close.

"Is it true?" he uttered softly.

"Is what true?"

"That … that Amora lives."

Loki stiffened, clutching at the spear so his knuckles turned white. Casting his own gaze around, checking that no one was eavesdropping, he nodded. Fandral blew out a breath, shoulders seeming to sag.

"By the Norns, how could she have -"

"No one knows," Loki answered. "She appeared on Midgard and started to lay siege to some of the mortals there."

"Midgard?" Fandral wrinkled his nose. "Why would she go there of all places?" Loki shrugged.

"It's unclear, but the All-Father will not allow her to wander as she wills." Fandral's eyes sharpened and he nodded.

"Ah, I take it Thor is going?"

"Yes."

"How though, the Bifrost -"

"The All-Father has many secrets," Loki said, not willing to divulge that Odin intended to send Thor to Midgard with Dark energy. Fandral may be a trusted friend of the Crown Prince, and Loki's favourite among his Brothers companions, but the Young Prince wasn't willing to share things that were better kept out of the ale houses and the many beds Fandral occupied.

Fandral watched Loki for a moment, then sighed. "I'm sure he does. At least Thor will be sent, and this mess will be dealt with quickly."

"You think Thor will be able to do such a thing?" Loki wondered, to which Fandral tilted his head in confusion.

"You don't think so? Thor is the mightiest of our warriors."

"I'm not disagreeing with that," Loki said, biting at his bottom lip. "But Amora is a powerful Seidr user and … well …" he trailed off, turning his head away.

"Prince Loki?" Fandral asked and Loki squared himself, staring the other warrior right in the eye.

"I feel as though someone should go who wants revenge for Alviss." The words were spoken louder than he had intended, which unfortunately caused many of the boys and Master Harold to turn in their direction.

"What is happening over here?" the Master bellowed, stalking his way across to the Young Prince and Fandral. "This is not the place to be talking, Master Fandral."

Fandral smiled sheepishly, but did not back down from Harold, instead he inclined his head in a small bow. "Apologies Master Harold." He turned back to Loki, who eyed the Master with a measure of annoyed distaste. "It appears as though I must leave you now, Young Prince."

"Of course, Fandral," Loki said with a strained smile. "Be sure to call in on Thor. I'm sure he will enjoy your company." Fandral nodded, stepping close to grasp Loki by the shoulder, giving it a squeeze. It was as he was doing that however, that he breathed softly into Loki's ear.

"Alviss should be avenged Young Prince, you must have faith that it will be delivered." Loki held in a gasp, as Fandral pulled back with his usual beaming smile. He bowed once more to Loki, then Master Harold before retreating out of the training yard. Loki watched him go with a mixture of regret and confusion. Fandral agreed with what he said, but what should he do about it? Was there anything he could do?

"Prince Loki," Master Harold barked, forcing Loki from his thoughts. "The Cohort is not yet over for the day."

Loki jumped back to attention, hastily gripping his spear as the Master looked ready to clout him about the head.

"Aye, Master," Loki scurried back to his training dummy, whacking at it with little skill. His mind too preoccupied with his racing thoughts. Alviss should be avenged, Fandral agreed, Loki agreed, heck even most of the servants, staff and Asgardians agreed. But the problem was no one had stepped forward. Not even Thor, who was being sent to deal with Amora and if Loki was being honest, he doubted Thor would be able to do it. Seidr had always been a weakness that Thor had yet to overcome, mostly from his lack of understanding of how it worked. And Amora would no doubt use that to her advantage. So, what did that mean Loki should do?

The end of the Cohort came slower that Loki would have liked. The Young Prince took his time putting away his things, so he was the last to leave the yard. He had no doubt that Leif was waiting for him back at his chambers. He wasn't sure if he was ready to face his Valet just yet, so he ambled through the corridors, taking his time.

His mind was still buzzing, twisting and turning all that he knew, but not able to come to any solid conclusions. He had thought about talking with Thor, laying out his concerns and his want for revenge for Alviss, but he doubted that his Brother would be willing to hear him. With preparing to go to Midgard, Thor would have little time to entertain his younger brother and Loki was unwilling to disturb him. That left his parents, but Odin would already be gathering Dark Energy to send Thor to Midgard, with Frigga more than likely watching over the casting in case it became dangerous. So, what was Loki to do?

He made it back to the Royal quarters, nodding to the guards on the door, he walked inside, only to be met with the booming laugh of Thor. Puzzled, Loki followed the sound, all the way to his elder Brother's own chambers, which had the door wide open, revealing the inside.

Thor's chambers were much the same size as Loki's, though they were completely different. Whereas the Young Prince had stuffed his chamber full of books, papers and as many spelled objects as he could find, Thor's was decorated with more weapons than the walls could hold. They spilled out on to the floor, tossed in corners and laid on tables, discarded when the Crown Prince was done with them. The curtains were thrown wide, light streaming into the chamber, revealing the forms of Fandral, Volstagg and Thor.

"Really, my friend," Thor clapped Fandral on the shoulder, who was scowling at him. "You worry over much."

"Better I worry too much than not worry at all," Fandral retorted, slipping away from Thor's hold. "Honestly Thor, don't you understand exactly what you are taking on?"

Thor's smile slipped, but it was Volstagg who answered. "Of course, he does, Fandral," the voluminous man said. "He's going to bring Amora back to face Asgardian justice."

"It's not just that," Fandral shook his head, as he pierced Thor with a hard look. "Amora may not be a warrior but she is powerful in her own right. You shouldn't underestimate her Thor."

Thor sighed, hand scratching thoughtfully at his bread. "I know that Fandral, I haven't forgotten the chaos she caused."

"Aye, and neither has anyone else."

"I will return with her so she may face the people's wrath," Thor vowed, which earn him a grunt of agreement from Volstagg.

"Of course, you will Thor, a simple Seidr user could never overcome your strength."

"That may be true," Thor inclined his head. "But Seidr is a tricky thing, it will take more than just brawn to overcome."

For a moment Loki felt a spark of pride in his Brother. Thor had at one time derided Seidr, called it foolish and a waste of time. And even though it was in the context of beating Amora, Loki was pleased that his Brother was now acknowledging that Seidr should at least be taken with some serious thought.

"I am glad that you are giving this thought," Fandral said. "You carry not only the people's expectations, but the Young Prince's."

"Loki?" Thor asked in confusion. "What has he to do with this?"

"Thor, you do remember that it was Prince Loki that Amora almost killed," Fandral reminded the blonde. "If it wasn't for Alviss's sacrifice, you would not have your Brother here with you."

Loki saw the colour drain from his Brother's face, eyes glazing over as his mind took him somewhere else. "I…I have not forgotten."

"Then you must know, if the Young Prince was not still but a child, that it would be his right to seek revenge upon Amora. It is his right for her slight to him."

Loki stifled a growl of discontent. It was true, if he had been an adult, or even nearing his majority, he would have been permitted, even expected to take on the task of dealing with Amora. But because he was still a child, he was shoved to the wayside.

"Aye, I know," Thor muttered, eyes downcast. "I know that if he could, Loki would probably go off and claim revenge anyway if we let him."

"Prince Loki wishes to fight Amora?" Volstagg asked in surprise. Thor merely shrugged.

"He does not say, so I cannot be sure. But he grieves heavily for Alviss, he feels the weight of his sacrifice more than he should."

"Nonsense," Volstagg protested. "The Young Prince must know none of what happened was his fault."

"I wish it was so my friend. But Loki's mind has ever been something that only he or Mother can truly understand. I worry."

Volstagg grunted clasping Thor's shoulder, "Fear not Thor, I will watch the Young Prince in your absence. I will see to it he does nothing foolish."

"Thank you, my friend. Truly I simply want this whole mess over with. Perhaps then he will begin to heal."

Loki didn't stay to hear more, retreating away from Thor's chamber and down towards his own. Hearing Thor's words, listening to him confess such things to Fandral and Volstagg, Loki felt the ever-familiar feeling of rage well up in him. How dare Thor just want to put the whole thing behind him? Does he not understand just what Amora had done? What she had taken?

Of course, he does not, a sinister thought answered, one that had grown in Loki since the coup the year before. How can he understand when he was merely a pawn in their plans? He can never feel the same way you do; he is the shining Crown Prince of Asgard, and you are nothing but the Jotun runt that the King brought home.

Loki winced, trying to squash the thoughts down, but it was hard to block them out, especially when he couldn't help but agree with it. It was true, that he was nothing when compared to his Brother. They weren't even the same species, so how could they come to understand one another. Thor could never comprehend Loki's thirst for revenge against Amora. It was impossible.

And he thinks he can do what is yours by right, the voice whispered, fanning the flames. Loki clenched his fists. Loki had a right to hunt down Amora. As one of the most injured parties still walking the Nine Realms, he had a duty to seek revenge.

Then do so, no one has a right to stop you.

Gritting his teeth, Loki reached his room, ignoring Leif who tried to speak to him, walking passed the confused Valet, to slam the door in his face as he tried to follow. Once in the darkness of his chambers, Loki crossed to his desk snatching up one of his many papers to study it thoroughly.

If he was going to seek what was rightfully his, he was going to need a way to Midgard. And he had the perfect way to do that. He only needed to figure out how to trigger it.

A Midgardian saying once said, desperation breeds innovation and Loki had to agree with the statement. He had delved himself deeply into his studies, flipping through book after book, paper after paper, all in search of some way to successfully Skywalk once again. His Mother had come to him, forcing him from his room to eat with the family. Loki had barely paid attention, even as Thor had explained that he would not be able to see Loki for the next small while, as Odin had nearly gathered enough Dark Energy to send him to Midgard. Loki had nodded, though a part of him felt relieved. If Father had nearly completed his preparations, that meant Mother would be with him, and less people would be asking after Loki. He had retreated to his room once again, not even bothering to change into his night clothes, simply sitting at his desk once again, mind already ticking over ideas.

It was with some reluctance that the Young Prince had to concede that, more than likely, he would not be able to come up with a new way to Skywalk. He had found many references to hidden pathways, separate from the Bifrost that could lead to other Realms. But Loki had no idea where one was on Asgard and he did not have the time to search. So that meant one thing.

Sighing, Loki rubbed at his eyes. The light of the torches on his walls were soft, as though trying to lull him to sleep, but Loki ignored it. Standing to stretch out his back, Loki set his mind to the next stage of his plan. The last time he had gone to Midgard he had been unprepared. With no weapons, little Seidr and not even in his own clothes. This time, Loki was on a mission and he would be equipped to carry it out.

Moving to his changing chamber, Loki set on his clothes, pulling free his leathers and pieces of his ceremonial armour. Stripping out of his clothes, Loki kept his soft undergarments on, then slipped the leather over them. It was tight but would be tough to pierce through with a blade. Once the jerkin was in place Loki moved on to the armour. He had not worn any of the pieces since Thor's coronation, so they looked just as new as they had done that day. With a flick of his hand Loki levitated the armour so that it floated before him. With a furrowed brow, Loki contemplated. It would be a waste of time to take it all, plus it would only weigh him down, so that meant the basics. With another wave the vambraces disconnected themselves, along with the leg guards. He thought for a moment about taking the chest plate, however the bulky piece would hamper his movement, making swift strikes difficult.

"I'll have to risk it," Loki muttered, banishing the rest of the amour back to his wardrobe as he pulled on the rest.

Once it was all in place, Loki headed back to his room. Taking a look around Loki snatched up a few odds and ends. Crystals that had some of his Seidr stored in them, a couple of knives and a sword from his wall. Glancing at his growing collection, Loki frowned, he had no healing stones in his room.

He cursed in annoyance; he would have to see about procuring some before he began his grand plan. Taking in the rest of his equipment he shook his head, he wouldn't be able to carry them all on his person, nor did he want to take a bag. Grinning a little, Loki took a breath and with a complex wave of his hand cast a brand-new spell he had been working on. The air beside Loki's hand shimmered, creating a slight distortion, like a heat haze. Loki's grin grew wider and with glee he tossed the crystals, knives and sword at the air, where they disappeared from sight.

"It worked," Loki said, as he watched the shimmering distortion flicker. With all his research into Skywalking Loki had come across many texts about dimensions, places that existed between the Realms. Loki had been intrigued and on one particularly boring day, had found a way to create his own small pocket dimension. It didn't do anything spectacular and was actually a waste of Seidr to summon. But Loki had to admit, it was useful to store things in.

Satisfied, Loki picked up his final piece of equipment, a wooden spear. It was much longer than the one he used in the Cohort, built for a man in mind. With intricate designs etched into the wood. It had sat on his wall for many a year, and now Loki finally had a use for it. Weighing it in his hand, Loki tossed it into the pocket dimension, then banished the spell.

With all that he could do in his own chamber complete, Loki crossed to the door, easing it open to take a look down the hallway. It was dark, and no one was around. Loki though wasn't willing to take a chance. Casting his most favoured spell, invisibility washed over the Young Prince. Stepping out of his room, he quietly shut the door then scarpered down the hallway.

Making sure to keep out of the way of the guards and the few Palace servants that were still working, Loki headed for the Healing Hall. He would be able to swipe some healing stones from there and he doubted Eir would still be hanging around.

Picking up the pace, Loki made it with no incident. The familiar chamber was dark, too dark for Loki to be able to find what he wanted. Once inside, Loki closed the door and cancelled his invisibility spell. Summoning light to his hand Loki crossed towards the back of the room, where several large glass cabinets sat. Pulling out draws and opening cupboards Loki routed around.

"Where in the Nine does she keep them?" Loki muttered to himself after minuets of fruitless searching. Slamming a draw shut a little forcefully, Loki stood, hands on his hips. "Maybe her office?" he wondered. He glanced to his left; he'd had the displeasure of being in that office several times in the last year. He'd never taken the time look around though so Loki had no clue whether Eir would keep healing stones in there. Paperwork on the other hand was left to rot.

"Worth a look," Loki conceded, crossing to the door, only to find it locked. Loki stretched out with his Seidr, checking to see if it was blocked with a spell, when he came up empty, Loki waved a hand, so the lock clicked, and the door creaked open.

"What do you think you're doing?"

Startled, Loki spun, thrusting out his hand that held the light, only for him to growl. "You! What are you doing here?!"

"I think I'm he one who should be asking that question," Sigyn huffed, blonde hair done up in a braid and light green robes covering her frame, so a pair of boots were poking out of the bottom. She crossed her arms over her chest as she glared at Loki. "What are you doing breaking into Lady Eir's office?"

Loki swallowed, banishing the nervous stuttering that wanted to overcome him. He pulled himself straight to look down his nose at her. "That's none of your concern."

"Oh really?" Sigyn raised an eyebrow. "Then I'm sure you won't mind if I call Lady Eir."

"No, don't!" Loki panicked and Sigyn smirked victoriously.

"Start talking."

Loki slumped; the damn girl was smarter than the average Asgardian. He would have been impressed if it wasn't so inconvenient. "I'm looking for Healing Stones."

"Healing Stones?" Sigyn wrinkled her nose as she stepped closer, raking her blue eyes up and down Loki's form. "You look fine to me."

"Yes, for now."

"What do you mean?"

Loki bit his lip; he wouldn't be able to get rid of Sigyn unless he told her something. "I'm going on trip; I want them just in case I get injured. Healing Stones are safer than healing yourself."

Sigyn stared at him, face calculating. "That's true, but what trip could you be going on in the middle of the night. Does the All-Father know about this?"

"Look, I don't have time for this," Loki snapped, stalking the rest of the distance between himself and Sigyn, taking hold of her arm. The girl flinched but didn't back down. "Are you going to tell me where the stones are or not?"

"You're not exactly giving me a reason to," Sigyn pointed out sardonically. Loki wanted to cry in frustration.

"Ah!" he ran a hand through his hair, mussing it up further. "I need to get to Midgard sometime tonight. Just tell me where the stones are." At the widening of Sigyn's eyes, Loki belatedly realised what he had said. "Oh Norns."

"Midgard?" the Healers Apprentice gasped. "Why in the Nine would you want to go to Midgard?"

"That's not your business," Loki tried to back track, but it was far too late.

"I beg to differ," Sigyn wrenched her arm free from Loki's grip, squaring her shoulders. "If you want Healing Stones from the Hall, then you better tell me what this is all about."

Loki sighed, anger and frustration, mostly at himself churned in his stomach. He looked at Sigyn, the girl was unmovable, and the Young Prince had no doubt that she would alert the first guard she saw if she wasn't satisfied with Loki's story. Taking a deep breath, Loki launched into an explanation.

It took several minutes, but by the end, Sigyn's eyes were wide with a mixture of horror and hot rage. "Amora's alive?"

"Aye," Loki nodded in determination. "She's attacked Midgard, for what purpose I don't know. The All-Father is going to send Thor, but I …" he trailed off, but Sigyn pressed him.

"You what?"

"I worry for him," he said, not willing to admit the complete reason. "He has trouble fighting against Seidr and with a user the calibre of Amora." Loki shook his head. "I fear he would be defeated."

Sigyn stared at him, cocking her head to one side. "And you think what? That you'll be able to do any better?"

"I at least understand Seidr," Loki pointed out. "Thor won't take me with him, the All-Father and All-Mother wouldn't allow it. But if I was already there Thor would not be able to send me back, not with the Bifrost broken." Sigyn said nothing, seeming to take in Loki's words. "Please, just give me the stones."

The Apprentice clucked her tongue, rolling her eyes before shaking her head. "Fine, fine." Abruptly, she turned and stalked off back into Healing Hall. Loki wondered for a moment if she had gone to get Eir. Panic started to develop but before it could overcome him, Sigyn reappeared, a satchel over one shoulder, which she adjusted as she rearranged her robe. "Well, let's get going then."

"Excuse me?" Loki gaped as Sigyn stood tall before him.

"Let's get going to Midgard. From what you told me, we'll only have a couple of hours before someone notices that you're missing, we will need to be away from here before that happens."

"You're not coming!" Loki hissed.

"I beg to differ," Sigyn argued, a prideful look entering her eyes. "If you think I'm going to just hand over Healing Stones to you, you have another thing coming."

"I know how to use them."

"I don't care," Sigyn snapped. "It's a healer's duty to make sure that all equipment is used correctly."

"I can't take you to Midgard."

"If you want Healing Stones you'll have to."

Loki was shaking, whether with rage or despair he didn't know. He eyed the satchel, he could take it from her and bolt, he'd probably be able to overpower her. But then he had no doubt that Sigyn would tell someone, making his whole plan come apart at the seams. Lowering his head in defeat, Loki spoke through gritted teeth. "Fine."

"Great, lets get moving then." Sigyn practically skipped passed him to head to the door of the Healing Hall. Loki stood there for a moment, before his logical self-caught up with him.

"Hey, wait for me!"

Loki barely managed to stop Sigyn before she walked out of the Healing Hall. Yanking her back by her elbow he hissed in her face. "Don't just walk out there, do you want to get caught?"

Sigyn growled but shook her head. Loki glowered right back but was content that she was going to listen to him. Taking a breath, he cast his invisibility spell, sending out a tendril of his Seidr so that it covered Sigyn to. The Healers Apprentice gasped, but Loki paid no heed to it, taking her by the wrist he stealthily stepped out into the corridor. Looking left and right and seeing no one, Loki headed out.

"Where are we going?" Sigyn whispered as he led her further into the Palace. "You said you needed to get to Midgard, but the Bifrost -"

"I have a plan," was all Loki said, otherwise ignoring the girl. He heard Sigyn huff however she didn't pull her hand away.

Picking up the pace, Loki made sure not to make too much noise as they passed several guards who were on their rounds and avoided the few servants that scurried about in the torch lit corridors. Eventually they made it to their destination.

"The Throne Room?" Sigyn muttered in confusion. Loki didn't answer, pushing open the doors as quietly as he was able, just enough for the two children to hurry through the gap. "Oh my," Sigyn gasped, as the door closed shut behind them and Loki waved his hand to light the torches. "I've never been in here before."

"Don't touch anything," Loki said, dismissing the invisibility spell and stalking into the centre of the large room. "We can't afford for you to break anything."

Sigyn snorted but followed after the Young Prince. Loki took in the room, eyeing the space with a critical eye. "It should be big enough."

"Are you going to explain now?" Sigyn asked in annoyance. Sighing, Loki reached out with his Seidr to summon his pocket dimension.

"The Bifrost is broken, at least for now," he explained, reaching into the shimmering air to pull out one of the Seidr crystals he had stashed there. Sigyn gaped at the display and Loki couldn't help but feel a little smug. "The All-Father intends to send Thor to Midgard through different means, meaning I can't copy it."

"Then how are we going to get there?"

Loki smirked, tapping at the crystal. "During the … incident last year, I manage to travel between Realms, without the use of a Bifrost. I Skywalked." At that Sigyn choked, eyes bulging as she stared.

"S…Skywalked?" she shrieked, to which Loki shushed her. "Tha…that's not possible, not without an aid.

"Well it appears that's not strictly true," Loki watched amused as Sigyn shook her head, sending her blonde braid flying.

"I can't believe this, I just can't. No one has ever been able to Skywalk just on their own power."

"I know, but somehow I did. I was able to get to Midgard and I intend to do the same this time."

"You've seriously managed to figure out how to Skywalk with your own Seidr?" Sigyn asked in disbelief. Loki wilted a little.

"N…not exactly."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Sigyn demanded. "If you can't do it -"

"I never said I couldn't do it," Loki argued. "I may not have figured out a way to do it consciously, but unconsciously, that's a whole other matter."

"That -"

"Look, we're running out of time," Loki cut her off, bending to place the crystal in the centre of the room. Once he was happy it was secure, he stepped back. "That should be enough."

"What are you going to do?" Loki kept silent, walking over to Sigyn to usher her over to the other side of the room. Once he was satisfied with the amount of space between them and the crystal, he turned to her.

"Stand behind me, but make sure we're touching, we need to be sure we go at the same time." Sigyn stared at him and Loki couldn't help but swallow a little in nervousness. Those blue eyes were so intense, as though they could look right into Loki's mind. Gently, fingers took a hold of Loki's, Sigyn shuffled until she was stood behind Loki's shoulder, his hand clutched in hers. A warm flush went through the Young Prince, and he clenched his fist around Sigyn's small hand. It felt so warm, soft. He wondered if the reason it felt so hot was because he was Jotun, no one's hand had ever felt so hot in his palm before.

"Are you going to get on with this or what?" the warm feeling was swiftly beat down, and he glared at the Healers Apprentice. Not willing to give her the satisfaction of a response. He turned his attention back to the crystal, sat innocently on the floor. Closing his eyes, Loki steeled himself, then cast his Seidr at it. The crystal, which housed a good portion of his own stored Seidr glowed, the Seidr reacted, amplifying the simple spell which Loki wished to cast.

Loki felt Sigyn tense behind him, breath stuttering as an image suddenly appeared in the middle of the Throne Room.

"There you are!" Amora cried triumphantly. The witch smirked as she stared at Loki and Sigyn from her place from beside the crystal.

"What the -?" the startled voice of Sigyn came from behind him.

"Don't move," Loki said, gripping her hand tightly. "It's alright, it's just an illusion."

"That's an illusion?" Sigyn asked in fear, as Seidr bolts were sent flying in their direction. Loki couldn't fault her for wanting to run, he did to, but that was the whole point. If he wanted to Skywalk, then he was going to have to try it the only way he knew how. But recreating the first incident in which it occurred. Loki felt the bolts of Seidr sail at him, almost burning his skin. The Seidr crystal was making the simple illusion he had cast appear and feel much more real. He winced as one finally hit him in the chest. The image of Amora, grinned as she came closer.

"I must admit, your invisibility spell is good," her eyes narrowed, and she sniffed the air. Loki swallowed, the illusion doing its job well. Familiar feelings of helplessness, rage and fear started to overwhelm him, causing his Seidr to start to bubble. "But I can still smell your Seidr."

Sigyn shivered, clutching Loki's hand tighter. Loki swallowed but kept his gaze fixed on Amora.

"I have to admit, if you were allowed to grow you could be one of the most powerful Seidr uses in the Nine Realms."

Loki's heart was speeding up, the image was taken right from his nightmares, the situation that he had played out over and over again, waking him in a cold sweat. It was torture, but he had to do it. Just like when he touched the Casket of Ancient Winters to discover if he was Jotun, he had to do this, he had to. Amora came closer, that smile never leaving her face as she summoned her Seidr, the bolt charged to kill.

"Goodbye, Prince Loki." The Amora image flicked her hand, sending her Seidr, right at them. Loki's panic, which had been steadily raising suddenly overwhelmed him. He needed to get away, he needed to run. He was going to die. His Seidr flared and Loki was forced to close his eyes as Sigyn let out a distressed cry. Power leaked from him, starting to wrap around the two children to comply with the wish of its master.

"Prince Loki!"

Loki never had the time to open his eyes, but he did feel the weight that slammed into him, sending both himself and Sigyn sprawling, which then landed on top of him. Opening his eyes, Loki gasped as he looked up at whoever had knocked him over.

"Leif?!" His Valet was wide eyed, frightened, but it was already to late. Loki's Seidr pulsed and withered, already prepared. With a final flare the three children disappeared from the floor of the Throne Room, causing the image of Amora to vanish and the crystal to shatter into a thousand pieces.