It had been a slow day in Helheim. Not really slow, more boring and uneventful, nothing noteworthy or particularly interesting. Just as every day had been since the realm was created. It wasn't really a kingdom. It had been created to be a prison. An elaborate and open prison, but still a prison.

In a dark throne room, seated on an elaborate chair, a young woman sprawled. One foot was thrown over an armrest while she draped herself over the other. She could be called pretty, in a dark and haunting way and had ebony hair and porcelain skin. She was thin and almost fragile-looking but her green eyes radiated power and revealed her seidr. This was Hela, Queen of the Dead.

She had resided in the bleak realm for hundreds of years and spent her time in the company of silence and death. Ever since Odin had banished her here, she had been alone.

Well, alone until a wandering sorcerer had stumbled through a magic portal.

At first, Hela was convinced that Loki's appearance was another sign of her growing insanity. After all, there was only so much time one would go without any real conversation, even for a creature as powerful as she was.

Loki continued to visit, even after she threw him out in fits of rage. He even gifted her with a ring that allowed her to make temporary visits into other worlds. Loki had saved Hela from being consumed by her own mind and she would never repay him for that.

The days without Loki visiting were still terribly dull. It was on one of those days when Hela had been mindlessly drawing smokey flowers with her magic when a cloud of green disturbed her thoughts.

A message hastily scribbled on a piece of parchment in familiar handwriting appeared in her lap. The God of Mischief. Hela frowned, the last time they had spoken, was merely a week ago. Loki's letter was not due for another month at least.

Unfolding the paper, she propped her head up on one hand to read the message.

Apologies for the abrupt message. I have recently come across a child, a destined one. His world is not safe and I intend to raise him until he is ready to return, He is an elf, Legolas Thranduilion. I will need someone to watch him while I prepare to leave Asgard. Are you up to the task?

Hela scoffed. Was she up to the task? Of course. Anything to distract her from this monotony.

Standing and brushing nonexistent dust off her dress, she pulled out the charm Loki had given her centuries ago. A small silver tree on a delicate chain.

Whispering the spell, the tree glowed and she disappeared, leaving no trace, aside from a sharp snap that she had been there at all.

The next three weeks were the happiest Hela had ever been. Legolas was a darling child. His sweet laughter melted her heart and his eyes mesmerized her the moment they opened.

Loki had stopped by a few times, making sure Legolas was well and informing Hela of his progress. Despite the infrequent visits, Hela could see that Loki was just as in love with the child as she was. Hela did not want Loki to finish his spell if he took years that it would be just fine with her.

Sadly, on his last visit, Loki had informed her that the spell was nearly complete and only requires a few minor adjustments.

Hela watched the child play with the carved wolf she had given him. It was modeled after Fenrir and given to her by one of her most faithful worshipers. Now, the work of art had been reduced to a chew toy but Hela could not think of a better way to use it.

A slight change in the atmosphere was the only warning she received before another joined her in observation.

"He looks well," Loki remarked, his voice fond.

"Yes." Hela averted her eyes and turned to face her long-time friend. "I suppose you have finished your preparations?"

"You would be correct. I found a small house in a town called Iselia." Hela frowned sharply.

"In Sylvarant?" She questioned. Sylvarant had a long history of racism, especially towards elves.

"An old friend had provided the necessary accommodations. You need not worry, he will be safe there."

"Which friend?"

"He wishes to remain anonymous. I don't blame him" Loki said, walking calmly over to where Legolas sat. Hela sniffed and turned her head, clearly wishing she received more information.

"Hello again child, it is good to see you well." He crouched down to meet the blue eyes. Legolas gurgled and waved the carving wildly.

"I am Loki." He said, his lips curving upward. The boy gave a gummy smile at the man before him, his cheeks scrunched in glee. Loki scooped the child into his arms and turned back to face the queen.

'Thank you Hela," He said.

"I cannot express my gratitude. When we are settled I will inform you of our whereabouts. I am sure Legolas will enjoy your visits." Hela nodded regally, hiding her sadness as she watched Loki step onto the branches of Yggdrasil. With a brilliant green flash, they were gone. Hela sighed, now she had to find another form of entertainment.