Thanks so much for all the favs and follows. Special thanks to Thanelover and iWolf. Would love more reviews!
No worries, this story has a good, satisfying finish, and then there are two bridge pieces, that lead to a whole new story, called Many Worlds, Much Mischief. I will post every weekend, for at least 8 more weeks!
Chap 8
Several hours later the flight deck door opened and the co-pilot stepped into the rest room at the front of the plane. He pointedly didn't look aft, discretion being a large part of a private jet's service. But the light and noise roused Jane. She gathered a few scattered bits of clothing and piled them on a chair opposite her. Flipping the blanket out into the air, she settled back down next to Thor, and let the blanket cover them. She pressed her body against him, and he murmured and put his arm around her. His hand ran up and down her side and she hummed in pleasure. But they had truly worn each other out; and they drifted back to sleep.
A soft chime woke Jane. The seatbelt light had gone on, and they seemed to be descending. She kissed Thor softly, to rouse him. He quickly came awake, and realizing where they were, grinned at Jane. He started to reach for her, but she nimbly evaded him, saying, "Hold on, the plane's landing. Here, put on your clothes." She sashayed down the aisle to the rear restroom and disappeared. Thor stood, and pulled his jeans and shirt back on. He found the socks and shoes that they had purchased earlier and when Jane emerged he was pulling his fingers through his hair. She handed him a comb from her purse, and primly buckled her seat belt around her. Thor smiled at her, not fooled at all by her demeanor. He had been correct, an eager woman lay under the layers of learning and the assertiveness extended to other areas of life. Fate had chosen well for him, she truly was his match. He buckled himself in.
In her turn, Jane was considering Thor. He was skilled and considerate while also being powerfully passionate. Jane took his hand in hers, and breathed softly into his palm. His breath caught. She smiled at him and asked something she was wondering about.
"I have seen you take blows that would have killed a human man, and you were barely scratched," she breathed on his hand. Her lips traveled up to the inside of his wrist, and now he was sighing through his lips, and trying not to squirm. "But you seem very sensitive to touch, and have skin that while not soft, is delightful." By this time she was half laying across him and lipping gently at the inside of his elbow. He was now gritting his teeth in an effort not to explode.
"Enough, vixen! Or I shall ravish you here and now, before the plane can touch the ground," he ground out.
Jane laughed and straightened up. But he could see the arousal in her eyes. "Yes, Thor", she said demurely. "But I am curious, how is it possible?"
"What do you call the building blocks of the body?" he asked willing himself to be distracted by her question.
"Cells, I suppose," she answered.
"Yes, that sounds right," he went on to explain. "The cells of an Asgardian are very densely packed, and the bonds between them very strong. That is why we more resistant to injury and longer lived than your race. Because of the density of our structures, we also tend to be far heavier for our size than humans as well. You seem impossibly light to me, and indeed I feared to touch you at first, for fear of hurting you."
"Don't worry, you didn't cause me even a moments discomfort," she whispered into his ear. His hands clenched the arm rest.
Just then the plane touched down, and wheeled to a parking area. A car and driver were waiting for them.
They thanked the captain, and went down the stairway, Thor keeping his bag over his shoulder. The driver stepped forward and asked,
"Dr. Foster, Mr. Odensen?" Thor looked startled and glanced at Jane. She looked nonplused for a moment, but then realizing Tony's effort to give Thor an earth name, smiled at the driver and said,
"That's right, thank you for meeting us so late."
The co-pilot had retrieved Jane's bag and the driver put it into the trunk. He opened the door for them and they climbed in. The car moved off across the tarmac, and out a private gate.
"The drive in should be quick, Dr. Foster," said the driver. There's no traffic to speak of, we should be at your destination within 35 minutes."
Thor now asked her, "Mr. Odensen? What is the meaning of this, Jane?"
"I think Tony is just trying out an earth like name for you. You can't go around with just 'Thor' on an I.D card. Don't take it too seriously. If you decide you want to take a regular, human name your choices will be nearly endless," she said placatingly.
"That was clever of him. Actually on Asgard I am officially addressed as 'Thor Odinson' so his name for me is quite close to what I am accustomed to. I will consider it," finished Thor.
Jane settled against Thor, and his arm went around her. She was almost embarrassed by how much she desired him. She was now eager to get to….she realized she had no idea where the driver was taking them.
"Where are we going?" she asked.
The driver named a hotel off the west side of Central Park. Jane rolled her eyes, but thought about the sumptuous rooms of the hotel. Now her eyes gleamed and she turned smiling to Thor.
"I think Tony and Darcy must have the same track running through their minds," she said.
"What do you mean?" asked Thor.
"They're trying to throw us together as much as possible, hoping to generate a few sparks," she said laughing.
"I think they are a bit late. The sparks have been flying since I first kissed your hand, back in New Mexico," smiled Thor.
"Do you ever wonder, Thor, why we met? It almost seems like some hand is guiding events. Why would I have found the Aether? I was looking for you, of course, but any person could have fallen to it. We found children playing in the gravimetric anomalies in the warehouse. But none of them went through the one that led to where the Aether was hidden. And then we needed to get back to Earth, we found the cave where there was an anomaly to get us here. It seems too much coincidence," Jane pondered.
"I have wondered, Jane. My mother said that Fate had ordained these events. In fact, I think she foresaw much," Thor marveled. "She may have even seen her own passing, she knew 'that not all would see it to its end'," he said sorrowfully. "But there was no fear of the events, or sorrow in her voice when she spoke of it, so I do not know."
"I wondered the same," said Jane. "She did seem foresighted, but there was no trace of fear in her. She spoke with me, just moments before she died."
"No, she was a shield maiden in her youth. There was no fear in her," said Thor proudly. "But she was also beautiful, and a wise mother."
"It makes me sad, to think that I won't get to know her better. She was kind to me, and accepted me. That meant a great deal to me," responded Jane.
"I will miss her counsel, and I do worry what the AllFather will do without her," said Thor.
They were silent for a few moments, each lost in their thoughts.
"Enough! Let us not become maudlin, or sorrowful," exclaimed Thor. "We have survived a great trial, we have each other, and the future lies bright before us. We should be rejoicing! On Asgard such a victory would have been cause for weeks of celebration!"
At that moment the car pulled to a stop in front of a beautiful building. They stepped out of the car. Jane turned to the driver and said,
"I'm sorry, I don't have any American money on me, but give me the receipt and I can add a tip to the credit card."
"Thanks, ma'am, I appreciate it," said the driver, generating the receipt from his dash. He went around the back and retrieved Jane's bag from the trunk, which he handed off to the bellhop, who had materialized at the bottom of the stairs.
Jane and Thor went into the lobby, which Thor was pleased to see was open and spacious. Jane approached the desk, while Thor listened intently. He had decided to observe and learn from every interaction possible, so that he could adapt quickly to this culture.
Jane handed over her Stark credit card. "You have a reservation for Foster and Odensen?" she asked, winking at Thor.
"Yes, Ma'am,' said the clerk. He checked his computer, and processed two key cards for her.
"Here you are, adjoining suites on the 19th floor. Enjoy your stay."
Jane led Thor to the elevator and stepped in, pushing the '19' button. They swooped upward, and were quickly on the 19th floor. Jane showed Thor how to swipe the card, and they entered his room. Again, Thor was pleased by the openness of the room. The ceiling was still a bit lower than he was accustomed to, but he didn't feel like he was going to bump into the walls. There was a large anteroom, a bedchamber, and a luxurious looking bath.
"Wait here a moment," said Jane. She went over to a door in the wall and opened it. Thor was surprised to see another door immediately beyond. Now Jane walked out of the room and, curious, Thor followed to the door. Jane was at the next door down the hall. She gestured to him to wait, and entered her room. A moment later she was coming through the small adjoining door. She now propped them both open, and beckoned to Thor. He went in to her room, and saw that it was a nearly perfect mirror image of his.
"These are very nice rooms," said Jane.
"I approve of them," responded Thor. "I like the space, the openness. I found the plane, and before that, your chambers in London a bit cramped."
"I should think so, after the Palace at Asgard," replied Jane.
"Well, now what? It is just after mid-night here. I suspect Tony will want to see us around 9 am. We've slept for 2 or 3 hours, and I recall you promised me breakfast. Shall we eat, or sleep?" she asked mischievously.
"I, for one, do not require more sleep," growled Thor, scooping her up and taking her to the bed. He stretched out beside her, and remembering how she had teased and tormented him on the plane he took her right hand, and gently curled it. Never taking his eyes from hers he kissed the back of her hand, then splaying out her fingers, he kissed the pad of each one. Now it was her turn to be breathless. When he got to her thumb he softly nibbled the end, and then caressed it with his tongue. She gasped, and started to squirm. He stilled her with his free hand. He kissed the inside of her wrist, and his other hand began to run up and down her left arm, just above her skin. Jane was sure that sparks were flying between them, the sensation was so acute. And all he had done was kiss her hand! He released her hand, and now his mouth came hungrily down on hers. She felt subsumed in him; all she could do was open before him.
An hour later Thor looked down at Jane's sleeping form. She truly amazed him. He had put forth his best efforts, and had not been disappointed in her response or his own. He was not weary enough for sleep, but didn't want to move away just yet. He wrapped an arm around her and pondered all that had befallen them. Despite all that he had lost he still felt richer. How could that be? He should feel bereft, his mother and brother both were dead. Frigga should have lived many long years more. 'Loki, Loki, would that you could know Jane,' he thought.
He considered Jane again, and carefully placing her in his mind's eye, he shut his own. Now she stood before him surrounded by a bright aura of energy. He saw with amazement that it was not something he could withdraw from her, it came from within. What did this mean? What had the Aether and the Asgard bond done to her? He could tell it wasn't harmful, but she seemed more than merely human to him. Again, he was impatient to confer with Dr. Banner, but he also wondered if an Asgardian healer might be able to explain what was happening to her. He opened his eyes and looked at her and was amused with himself to feel the stirrings of desire again.
He decided to get out of the bed, and gently untangling himself from her, he rose. His eyes had adjusted to the dark, and explored the room. He went into the en suite and considered washing. There was a large, rectangular, tiled bath, surmounted by glass walls and a door. He stepped into the enclosure and examined the knobs and spigot. He managed to get a hot stream of water flowing from the spigot and pulling on a little knob was surprised when the flow of water stopped below and was suddenly cascading over his back. 'Ahh, that feels good,' he thought.
Jane woke and heard the running water. She stretched luxuriantly, remembering. She was overcome with emotion. Tears stood in her eyes. She had never experienced anything like this. She realized that she had never truly been in love before.
She got off the bed, and padded quietly to the door of the en suite. Thor was standing in the shower, letting the water cascade over him. He was magnificent; there was just no other word for it. She let her eyes travel down and back up his body. Somehow aware of her presence he turned his head toward her, and caught her looking. He smiled an understanding smile. He pushed the shower door open, and beckoned to her.
"I thought you would sleep for a good while yet," he said. She stepped into the enclosure and directly into his arms.
"I'm not sleepy anymore," she whispered into his chest. He laughed gently.
"I wasn't tired either", he smiled at her. "But I think I am growing hungry. Is there any way to get food in the night watches?"
She eyed him, how could she possibly want him again, so soon? "This is a high class place, we can order room service 24/7," she explained. To distract herself she turned from him and found the hotel soap and shampoo. She stepped fully into the streaming water, wetting her hair thoroughly, while Thor watched. She filled her hand with some shampoo and brought her hands to head massaging it in. Lather ran down her body. Suddenly he was pressed up against her back, his desire evident.
"Do you do that on purpose?" he growled. "Or are you unaware of the affect you have on me?"
"Yes," she answered breathily. Food would have to wait a little bit longer.
An hour later they sat at a small table, hungrily eating a very early breakfast. After eating their fill Thor suggested that Jane sleep.
"What will you do?" yawned Jane. She actually did feel a bit sleepy.
"I will watch for the dawn and ponder all that has happened. I have not had much time to really think it all through. Do not concern yourself, I am content. Perhaps tomorrow I can find some books to read," he answered.
Jane showed him the television set in his room but she warned him he might not find much of interest. She didn't think Thor would be the sit in front of the tube type of man. She returned to her room and stretched out on the bad. She was quickly asleep.
She was having a beautiful dream. She was walking through what looked like an alpine meadow, Thor at her side. The meadow was carpeted with soft spring grass, dotted here and there with small purple flowers. When she looked up she realized the sky overhead was that of Asgard, the stars and nebulae clearly visible, even though she seemed to be in the clear light of dawn. Thor was rubbing her shoulder lightly, and murmuring, "Jane, Jane, wake up."
Her eyes snapped open; she was in the hotel bed, the morning light touching her face. Thor was stretched out behind her, rubbing her shoulder and calling her. She stretched and turned over. Smiling up a Thor, she said, "Good morning! You're here, too."
"Where were we?" he asked, smiling.
"I think it must have been Asgard. It was like a high meadow, but the sky was like the sky over the city, filled with stars. It was very beautiful."
"There are such places in the mountains beyond the city," said Thor. "It is curious that you should see them in your dreams."
"What time is it?" asked Jane.
"It is shortly after dawn," replied Thor. "I don't know how time is measured here, but the little device on the dresser says 7:15."
"Good, plenty of time for a second breakfast and a cup of coffee," said Jane.
"Are you hungry again?" he asked curiously.
"Isn't that funny, I am," said Jane. "Do you remember how much you ate the first time I met you? You were ravenously hungry."
"Yes," Thor said appraisingly. "Our energy demands are higher; we tend to consume more food than humans do. He was eyeing Jane speculatively. He certainly wanted to get to Stark headquarters sooner rather than later.
"There is book I think you would enjoy," said Jane. It is about a world that has many different creatures, all sentient, who struggle to overcome a great evil. It has elves, men, dwarves, and a curious race called hobbits. They enjoyed food greatly. Yes, I think you would really like it, we should pick up a copy today."
She reached up and kissed him, then bounded off the bed into the en suite, shutting the door. She emerged a few minutes later, considerably refreshed. She went to her suitcase and picked out a set of clothes for the day.
"Shall we go down to breakfast this time?" she asked him.
He shook himself out of his reverie and crossed into his room. He dressed in his remaining fresh set of clothes, and realized he might have to both purchase more and find a way to get his thing laundered. How was that done here he wondered. He would ask Jane. When he returned to Jane's room she was brushing out her hair, which fell in soft curling waves around her face. He walked over to her and picking up a section brought it to his lips and kissed it.
"You have beautiful hair," he whispered into her ear.
"Thank you," she replied, flattered. She stood and turned in his arms. She gazed up at him and was quickly lost in his eyes. Again a feeling of utter joy, accompanied by a complete inability to think suffused them both. His glance flicked from her eyes to her lips and back. She stretched up to meet his kiss, which quickly overwhelmed them. Finally pulling back to rest her head on his chest she said,
"We should go out, or I won't be able to make myself leave this room."
"Spoken like a true wench," he chuckled. "But you are right, come, let us meet the day. But before we leave is there a laundress available? I should get my few clothes washed."
Jane showed him how to use the laundry bag in the closet. Then they set out to find a meal. Jane noticed that even in street clothes Thor had a purposeful way of walking and a powerful presence. Many people in the lobby stared as they walked past. It never occurred to her that she drew as many admiring glances as he did, many men noticing the blush of new love on her face. And though Thor seemed unconscious of the stares of others he wasn't totally unaware. His arm tightened across her shoulders.
They ate a light breakfast in the hotel lobby and took a cab to Stark Tower. Jane sent Pepper a text to let her know they were on the way. When they arrived she took Thor up to her lab, just to give him an idea of what she did. She glanced around, startled at the clutter.
"I guess I got use to the lack of clutter on Asgard," she said. "Well, since I can't use a quantum field generator at will I'll have to get use to computers, pens, and paper again. Maybe I'll ask Tony for a couple of smart boards."
"You know the offer's always been there," said Tony from the door. Thor and Jane turned, smiling, and advanced toward him. Thor clasped his arm in greeting, and Jane gave him a quick hug. Tony glanced from one to the other, grinned and rolled his eyes.
"Well it looks like you two are getting along just fine," teased Tony. "And how do the Asgardians use quantum field generators?
"Later, Dr. Stark, perhaps, later it can be explained to you," said Thor. "For now, I would very much like to see Dr. Banner."
"Ok, lightning rod, ok, geez, what's the hurry," retorted Tony. "Come on then, he likes the top floor."
Tony led them to the elevator, and they went to the top research level. Stepping in to an immaculate lab, they found Dr. Banner hunched over a microscope. At the ding of the elevator he looked up. A wide smile broke on his face at seeing Thor. He stood and came to meet them.
"Thor, it's good to see you! Dr. Foster, it's been a while," said Dr. Banner. "What can I do for you today?"
"Let us sit, Jane, Tony, as this story will take a while to tell," said Thor.
They all sat on lab stools, and Thor and Jane retold the story. They took turns speaking; filling gaps in each other's knowledge of the events. Tony didn't want to break into the narrative, so he jotted down questions as they spoke. Bruce just listened attentively. Thor finished up with Jane's heroism at the foot of Malekith's ship. Neither Jane nor Thor felt that they needed to relate all the details. But as the story unfolded the tale of their love was made clear to the two other men.
"Now we come to things of which Jane is still ignorant," said Thor. "Even though these events are just passed I have wondered about the affects all this energy has had on Jane. I have explained to her some of the aspects of Asgard physiology, now I have questions about human structures. We have been together constantly over the past two days, and already I have noticed that she seems to need less sleep, while on the other hand she seems hungrier than usual. When I contemplate her within my mind I see that she is now radiating energy of her own. And she was able to pass some of this energy to me, immediately after the battle with Malekith. This is not something I ever considered possible. I thought Dr. Banner might be able to devise tests, or he might have insight into these changes, considering his own history," he finished.
Jane suddenly felt like she was an interesting specimen in an exhibition, as all three men turned to look at her.
"What?" she exclaimed. "I feel fine; I don't feel different, much." She realized she did feel a bit different. She definitely had more energy, and seemed to need less sleep. And she was hungry, again.
"Let's just start with some simple stuff," said Bruce. He stood, and began to gather an alarming array of instruments and equipment.
"If this is 'simple stuff' I am gonna be taking the next plane back to London," squeaked Jane.
"Jane, I can honestly say, as your doctor, that you won't feel a thing," quipped Bruce. "Seriously, none of this is the list bit invasive. Open your mouth."
He delicately swabbed the inside of her cheek with a cotton swab and carefully inserted it into a long plastic tube, which he sealed.
"There, the worst is over for now," he said.
"Looks like you're in good hands," said Tony. "I'm gonna bale on this party, but come see me on the executive floor when you finish. Pepper will want to see you as well."
Bruce continued to examine Jane with a variety of instruments. Thor looked on somewhat anxiously. His hovering was beginning to fret Jane a bit.
"Thor, I would love coffee about now," suggested Jane. "Dr. Banner, do you have your swipe card? Thor could go to the break room on this floor, and get us each a cup."
"Actually, why not go to the café on the tenth floor," said Bruce. He wanted to speak with Jane privately, and he needed to draw blood. He wasn't sure how Thor would react to that. He handed Thor a card, and said,
"Just swipe this through the card reader as you check out. I'd like a cappuccino, how about you, Jane?" he asked.
"I'd love a cappuccino. Thor, do you remember how I made it in London?" suggested Jane.
"Yes, I will go, I may actually stop and speak with Dr. Stark. I should make arrangements to see Director Fury sometime soon," he said. He gave Jane a quick kiss and strode out the door. They heard the elevator ping, and knew he had left.
"Good, now Jane, I know I told you this wouldn't hurt, but I would like to draw one or two vials of blood. And I would like to try a magnetic resonance imaging scan too. I don't know if we will have time for that, but I would like to try," explained Bruce. As he spoke he took up the phlebotomy supplies he had prepared. Jane just sighed, and stuck out her arm.
"Now, have you noticed anything unusual," he asked as he quickly and gently found a vein, and withdrew two small vials of blood. He set them aside in a little basket made to hold them.
"Sometimes a person withholds information, when a loved one is in room. Have you had any symptoms that concern you?"
"Well, I do realize that I seem to need less sleep, and I am rather hungry. And I feel a bit clearer headed, but I don't know if I am clearer because something has changed in my mind, or if it is because all the anxiety is gone," said Jane. "Overall I would say I feel great."
"Ok, that's good," said Bruce. "So, it's all good, now that he is back? How long is he staying?"
"It seems rather indefinite for now. He has permission from the AllFather to stay on Earth. But Thor promised to return, if he was needed," answered Jane. A soft smile lit her face.
Bruce smiled back. It touched him, the look of joy on Jane's face. He remembered feeling that way, before the accident. He shook himself out the memory; there was no time for that. But he glanced at Jane again, and realized that she was truly radiant with happiness.
"That's wonderful. Ok, now let's head to my imaging room" he instructed. They went into a long room, with a CAT scan device at one end and an MRI machine at the other. He gave Jane a moment to read the instructions for the CAT scan and the MRI. One of the questions gave Jane a startling thought.
'Are you currently pregnant?' asked the sheet of paper. She suddenly realized that her activities with Thor might have further ramifications. 'He's not human, so that isn't an issue, right?' she wondered to herself. And that thought, though temporarily comforting, made her feel a bit bereft. How could she feel like she was missing out on something she had never considered important to herself. This was awkward, but she realized that she had some questions for Thor.
Dr. Banner paused a moment, and said, "Jane, I don't think we should use the CAT scan, it will expose you to a significant X-Ray dose. Since Thor is concerned about how these other energies you have been exposed to have affected you I'm not willing to expose you to more radiation. Let's try the MRI, which is a bit louder and more claustrophobia inducing, but safer."
"Ok, what do I need to do?" asked Jane.
"I'm going to step out a moment, and you need to change into this gorgeous paper gown. Make sure to put all your clothes, rings, necklaces, everything in this bag. Then lay down on this comfy looking, sterile, plastic surface and we can start," he explained with a twinkle in his eye.
"Great bedside manner, doc," muttered Jane to his back.
"I heard that!" he shouted back.
Jane did as she was told and momentarily Dr. Banner came back. He took the bag out of the room, not wanting to risk any metal or magnetic materials being in the room.
"Ok, this machine is annoyingly loud, but it should be quick," he said.
The machine started to hum, then Jane heard a loud persistent knocking. The bed she was on started to slide into the MRI tunnel. Other than the loud noise, and a little twitchiness in her fingers she felt nothing. She passed through the tunnel and then back. By the time she was back at the starting point she was grateful, as the noise was annoying.
Dr. Banner seemed preoccupied, and Jane asked, "Am I all there, doctor?"
"Apparently, yes. Why don't you go hunt down that coffee, and bring Thor back with you when you come," he said. He reached out for her bag of clothes, and winking, excused himself from the room.
When she came out she found Dr. Banner talking with Thor. The doctor had just done a swab of the inside of his cheek as well.
"Look who turned up while we were busy making pictures of you," said Dr. Banner. "You two go play, I'll see you back here at 1, I should have some results by then."
They went to see Pepper, who was thrilled to see that things had finally worked out for them. Jane re-introduced them, as they had apparently met briefly after the Chitauri attack on the year before.
They came back to Banner's lab after lunch with Tony and Pepper. Tony had helped Thor arrange a meeting with Fury, and gotten work started on getting Thor an ID and a Stark Industries credit card.
They entered the lab hand in hand, which made Dr. Banner smile. He had some interesting news for them, and a couple of more questions.
"Ok, you two, I have some news, and I have a couple of questions. First, Jane is going to be fine, in fact she is going to be fine for a long time yet. I mean that in the sense that, say, Natasha, Clint, or Steve are fine. She is experiencing changes on a cellular level, but it doesn't look to be harmful. The MRI was somewhat inconclusive; because Jane's cellular density is now off the charts. Her blood now seems to be able to carry three times more iron and oxygen than for a normal human. But instead of this speeding aging, it seems to be slowing it. I don't have numbers yet, but right now it looks like she should age 1 year for every 10. She is also radiating a type of energy that I am unfamiliar with. And that leads to my questions," he said.
But before he could ask anything Jane turned wonderingly to Thor.
"Thor, this means I could live as long as 500 years! This is incredible, it's unreal! How am I supposed to feel about this?" she cried.
"Dear one, I suspected as much. This is a lot to understand. I cannot be sorry, for my part," he admitted. "Your lifespan seemed painfully short to me. It was one of the things that Loki tormented me with, that I could never be ready to part with you, but inevitably and too soon, I would have to. But I realize it is much for you to cope with." He embraced her, and she rested her head on his chest, completely overwhelmed.
"Thor, I tried to do a cheek swab of you and discovered there were no cells on the swab! How can that be?" Dr. Banner asked, while Jane struggled to process this new information.
"I have told Jane that Asgardians have very dense cellular structures, and that the bonds between them are very strong. That is why we are so much sturdier than humans. So just rubbing the inside of my cheek with that little bit of cotton would have had no affect on me. But what would this swab have shown you?" replied Thor.
"I was interested in your genetic structure," answered Dr. Banner. "The skin cells inside the mouth are often used in genetic testing. Do you know what genes and DNA are? What are the Asgardian words for such things?"
"Explain to me their function in your words, Dr. Banner, and I will see if I understand," replied Thor. Jane had suddenly grown very still, and very alert. Thor noticed, but kept his peace.
"Genes are units within the cells of living creatures that control how they pass on characteristics or traits to their young, or conversely, how living beings inherit characteristics from their ancestors. They are made up of a long molecule called DNA. This DNA is made up of simple units that line up in a particular order within the molecule. The genes and DNA and proteins make up a structure called a chromosome. Different organisms have differing numbers of chromosomes. For example humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes for a total of 46. These 46 chromosomes determine everything about our bodies, our gender, eye color, tendency to hereditary disease, etc.," Dr. Banner explained.
"Ah, yes, I understand this. We learn this in our early instruction. Those who have an interest in the healing arts, or the propagation of new breeds of plants and animals are usually interested in this branch of study. I think I can provide a sample for you, without too much trouble," replied Thor. With that he reached up and carefully taking a single strand of his hair, he gave a sharp pull. One entire strand of hair came free, complete with its root attached.
"Can you use this?" he asked, carefully handing it to Dr. Banner.
"Hair is not usually a source of this information, but since you removed the root structure, which is a group of living cells, this will do fine," he said gleefully. "Do you happen to know how many chromosomes Asgardians have?
"It is a curious fact, Dr. Banner, that all those races, in all the realms, that go on two feet, and have the use of reason and of speech, have 46. It makes one truly ponder our origins," answered Thor. Now he noticed that Jane had twitched in his arms and was not quite trembling.
"Jane, are you alright?" he asked.
"Yes, yes," she said evasively. "I'm fine, just still processing all this. It is not an easy thing to contemplate, that I will outlive everyone I know, except you, Thor." Now she knew she would have to speak with Thor, but not here, not in front of Bruce.
"Not quite, Jane," said Bruce. "I don't know that there is any end for me, and certainly Fury, Natasha, Clint, and Steve have very long lives ahead of them. You are now a member of a very special club!"
"That's true," she murmured.
''And Jane, there is all of Asgard. You might not be as long lived as an Asgardian, but it will change the way they see you. And think of the things you will be able to learn, with all that time,' added Thor.
He had hit on one of the few things that could make her introspection less worried. There would be time to really learn new disciplines, new ways of doing things. Jane knew she still had much to adjust to, but that idea began to grow in her mind. Perhaps it would be a good thing, to have so long to spend with Thor. She had been living 'in the moment' for the past week, first in terror, then in joy. She needed to take a longer view.
Dr. Banner now took a serious tone. "I think you should keep this to yourselves for now. We don't really know what caused this, or whether it is a combination of factors, between the Aether and the bond. If it was even suspected that an Asgardian could extend human life by this means there might be havoc. Come and see me if you have any questions or develop any worrisome symptoms."
"My thanks, Dr. Banner," said Thor, clasping his arm.
"Yes, thanks, Bruce," murmured a somewhat dazed Jane.
"Take her out and get her some fresh air, and give her a little time to get use to it," suggested Dr. Banner.
Thor took Jane's hand and led her out to the elevator, which he took to the ground floor. Out on the street he waved down a taxi, as he had seen Jane do. They climbed in and the driver asked, "Where to?"
Thor glanced at Jane, and giving it a moment's thought, suggested, "Central Park, west."
Jane was still silent, and Thor was beginning to worry a bit. Was she not pleased? They could spend so much more time together, and beyond that, to him it seemed a great gift. Why did she seem so fretful?
They arrived at the Park, and Jane roused herself enough to pay the driver. They climbed out of the cab and walked into the Park. Jane walked rather aimlessly down a path. There was now a reservoir before them and on the left, several playgrounds. Schools must have let out recently, as the play structures were full of laughing, yelling children. At this they both stopped, but for different reasons.
Thor was amazed. He had never seen so many children in one place before. Children were rare on Asgard. With such long life spans it made sense, if Asgardians were a very fertile race they would quickly overrun their own realm. But as such they adored children, and looked upon them as incredibly special blessings.
Jane looked at all the children and had a somewhat different reaction. This was the reality she had to confront with Thor. What had she been thinking over the past two days? The obvious answer was she wasn't thinking with the rational part of her mind at all! She knew she loved Thor and that he loved her. But she would have to do something about birth control, and soon. Her eyes fell on a young mother, with a toddler at her knee, and an obviously very young baby on her shoulder. She was patting the infant, and murmuring something to the curly-headed child at her side. It was a peaceful, idyllic image, but Jane knew that not all mothering was like that. She supposed she wanted children, eventually, but she didn't see herself 'settling down' anytime soon. Thor broke into her introspection.
"Jane, where did all these children come from?' he asked, sounding amazed.
"What do you mean, where do they come from?" retorted Jane. Surely she wouldn't have to explain it to him?
Inexplicably to Thor she sounded annoyed. He looked at her closely, but she wouldn't meet his eye. She had been strange since leaving the lab, and now he wondered if there was more going on than he realized. 'She is a woman, so of course, she is inexplicable to me,' he thought. He steered her toward a bench, and sat down with so that they could see the children, who delighted him.
"Jane, on Asgard, children are very rare. We live a long time, and if we reproduced quickly we would overrun the realms. Because they are so rare, to us they are very precious. I have never seen so many children gathered together in one place, ever," he explained.
Now a glimmer of understanding came over Jane. She realized that there were bound to be differences in their cultures, for all they seemed alike in many things. She knew Thor would be horrified to hear the whole truth of human behavior toward their children. She decided to give it in little bits.
"Our cultures are bound to be different, aren't they?" she started. "Human men and women are fairly fertile, Thor. If a woman didn't carefully control her fertility she would probably have four to eight children in her life time. And some are very fertile, having 10 or more. That's fairly rare nowadays, but it used to be common. On this island alone there are over one and a half million people, although that kind of population density is confined to only a few places on Earth. Most women today choose to have only one or two children," she finished quietly. Again, that air of quiet introspection settled around her.
"You are right, there are bound to be differences," replied Thor. "Jane, won't you tell me what is worrying you? You have had a lot of changes thrust on you all at once. And none of it by your own will. The Aether nearly consumed you, but you survived its initial attack. Then I came blundering in, and in my attempt to save you, for myself I admit, I may have actually changed the very make-up of your being. I am sorry to have caused you any grief, but at the same time I am filled with joy, knowing that you will not leave me too soon. I love you, and I will not leave you."
Tears stood in Jane's eyes. His declaration meant a lot to her. She decided she was being a bit silly. They had come through so much. Their love for each other had endured long separation and incredible trials. They had literally offered their lives for each other. She realized that she had not loved like this before, and that Thor had more than once declared his intention to stay with her. She knew that their relationship wasn't going to be easily categorized.
"I'm sorry to be so gloomy," she answered. "You're right; it has been a lot to take in. I love you, and in all these events, all these struggles to get back to you, I hadn't thought about what would come next. Dr. Banner's news wasn't entirely surprising, and at one level I'm thrilled. But," and now her voice dropped; "I hadn't thought as far ahead as babies."
"Would you want children with me, Jane?" he asked gently. On Asgard there would be no question of this, it would be hoped for, but not taken for granted. He realized, with all the children on the playground before him; that for Jane is was a much greater likelihood. He could see that this news might be difficult to accept for her, as much as he might long for it.
"I've never given it too much thought!" cried Jane. "That's what's troubling me so."
Thor brought her close and stroked her hair. "Sh, sh, Jane," he soothed. "Be easy, there is time to figure all these things out." He would admit to a little disappointment in her vague answer. He looked out, over her head, and saw the young mother across the way. A tall, dark haired man was approaching, and a smile lit the woman's face. "Look, Jane, at that family," he urged.
Jane turned her head, still resting it on Thor's shoulder. The toddler girl called out, "Daddy" and hurled herself against the tall man's legs. He plucked her up and tossed up into the air, catching her as she shrieked in laughter. The mother looked on, an indulgent smile on her face. The baby mewled in protest over the sudden noise and now the mother soothed it, whispering and rocking it gently. The father stooped down and kissed his wife.
"See how they work together, Jane," said Thor. He searched for the words to ease her concerns. Suddenly he knew what he needed to do, but he wanted to plan it out a bit. He would need the help of others to make it perfect. He would have to speak with Dr. Banner, perhaps, and Pepper Potts. He wasn't sure that Tony's flamboyant style would suit him.
"Yes, Thor," said Jane. New possibilities were wedging their way into her mind. Again, she felt like her heart was being stretched. Suddenly she was exhausted, not so much physically, as emotionally.
"Can we go back to the hotel?" she asked.
"Certainly, but on the way there, can we procure a 'phone for me? Is this hard to do?" he asked.
"Not at all, we can get you a throw away for now, and put a month's worth of time on it" she answered, surprised. His request distracted her from her worries a moment.
"Thor, how do you communicate on Asgard? I never saw any suggestion of communications technology there. But you don't seem to have any trouble communicating with each other," she asked.
"We have two chief ways. The first way is to just send someone with a message," he explained. "But for family members, or close friends, we can bend our thoughts on that person, and make them aware that they are wanted. This won't carry actual messages, but it lets them know to come or send a messenger. And of course, the Allfather and Arnfreyer have birds to send."
"It's telepathic? That's amazing. I can see why you don't need a device for it," pondered Jane.
"I'm not sure, a phone would make it easier to convey complex messages quickly" responded Thor. "You will have to ask one of our scholars, when you visit."
They walked to the entrance of the park and realized they weren't too far from their hotel. Jane scanned the far side of the street, watching for a phone store. Eventually she found a small store front, which promised many different phones and carriers. They crossed the avenue and went in. Jane found him a phone with a large enough keypad for his hands and suggested he put 600 minutes on it. He paid with it with his credit card. Jane was pleased to see him become more at ease with these simple interactions. She mused that if the clerk knew who he was he would have either insisted on a much more expensive phone, or not charged him at all. Thor had, after all, helped to save the world, literally, twice in two years!
Now that they weren't discussing deep things some of her good temper came back. She wanted to get him a copy of that book. But perhaps an e-reader was a good idea? He would have access to many books then. Not surprisingly there was a selection at the back of the store. She found one that doubled as a tablet, and bought it for him as a gift. She didn't explain it to him; she would show him at the hotel.
They started back up the street which was now full of cars and hurrying people. Rush hour was in full swing. Thor was shocked at the numbers of people and cars. He was grateful to get back into the quiet of the hotel. They returned to their rooms.
Jane set up an account for Thor on the tablet. While she did that he copied some of the phone numbers from her contact list onto his phone. Jane didn't think much about this; it made sense to her that he start with the people they knew in common. She purchased the book she wanted for him, and spent a few minutes showing him how to use the reader.
"Thor, I was up half the night, I am going to lie down for a little while, if you don't mind. I just want to think a bit," she told him, giving him a quick kiss.
"Of course, Jane," he answered. "When you are ready, we can get some dinner." 'Perfect,' he thought, 'I can make a couple of the phone calls I wanted to.' He took his phone and his reader into his room, and gently shut the door.
Jane lay down and pondered all that she had learned that day. Five hundred years! That seemed unimaginably long to her, and all with one man? None of her relationships had lasted longer than a few months. She was too driven by her work and her thirst for knowledge to settle down. Again, the image of the little family danced at the edge of her imagination. It did look beautiful. And she had never loved anyone the way she loved Thor. Maybe she just needed to relax and let life happen a bit. She knew they suited each other in many ways. They seemed made to be together. She should trust that, she decided. She drifted off to sleep.
With some trepidation Thor dialed Pepper Potts number. He really wanted some insights from a human woman. There were customs he knew nothing about. He knew enough about men and women to realize they saw things very differently.
Pepper was wrapping up an interesting day. She had been glad for Jane. She certainly had endured a great deal. Her private phone rang, and reflexively she answered it.
"Pepper Potts."
Thor's rich voice answered, "Miss Potts, this is Thor. I am sorry to disturb you; I know you are a very busy woman. But I have some questions about customs, that I need answers to soon."
"Thor," said Pepper, surprised. "Don't worry about it, I was just clearing up. How is Jane? We didn't see you after you saw Bruce."
"Jane is fine in body, but a little disturbed in spirit," answered Thor. "She has had some surprising news, and isn't sure how to accept it. I want to reassure her, and I thought you could help me."
"Anything I can do Thor," she responded. She knew he was planning to stay on Earth for a while, and thought it prudent to be as helpful and supportive as possible. And she simply liked and admired Jane, who had already done a lot for Stark Industries with her research.
"Miss Potts, I intend to ask Jane to become my wife tomorrow. I have already asked Eric Selvig's blessing, but I am ignorant of Earth customs in this regard. Can you give me some insight?"
"Wow, you do move quickly! Is she ready for this?" asked Pepper.
"I am not sure, but I intend to find out!" he answered determinedly. Pepper sensed that he wasn't going to be put off.
'It'll be better to help him do it right, than not help him and have him blunder about,' she thought.
"Ok," she said aloud. "Well, it is customary for the man to find a romantic, private spot. And he usually presents her with a ring, with a small stone in it. We call this an engagement ring. I can help you with both of those things tomorrow." She looked at her calendar. "I can move things around a bit, and see you here, tomorrow at 10 am. Come in with Jane in the morning, and find some excuse to leave her lab for an hour, maybe an hour and a half."
"My thanks, Miss Potts," said Thor, relieved.
"Pepper, please, Thor, call me Pepper," she insisted.
"Yes, Pepper, again thank you," he replied, hanging up the phone.
Satisfied with the results, he hung up the phone. He picked up the tablet and turned it on. He began the book Jane had purchased for him. He did find the actions of the hobbits amusing, but he quickly saw that it was going to be a serious tale. He fell into the novel and didn't look up again for a long while. An hour passed, and the light from outside was failing. He realized that it was getting past the dinner hour. He went to check on Jane.
She lay on the bed, totally relaxed in sleep. A gentle smile played about her mouth. He wondered what she was seeing in her dreams, to make her smile.
Jane was again walking in a beautiful meadow, the celestial sky over her head. At first she was alone, and then Frigga was beside her. In her dream this only seemed vaguely odd.
"Jane," spoke Frigga, "Remember what I told you, and do not be afraid to accept Thor. This is meant to be, for your good, and for the good of Asgard. You are the harbinger of great events. Accept the gift of his love." Now Frigga drifted away, and Thor was beside her, and on his far side was a handsome little boy, about four years old, with long, softly curling blond hair and bright brown eyes. A little girl, about two, with identical coloring played in the grass at their feet.
"Jane, Jane, wake up," gently called Thor. He sat beside her on the bed, calling her. Her eyes opened and he saw that they were filled with wonder.
"Thor," she whispered. She tugged him down and gave him an earth shattering kiss, filled with love and longing. He broke from her, gasping and rested his forehead on hers. "I'm sorry," she said. "I just needed a little time to figure it out."
A tension he didn't know he was carrying relaxed in him.
"Why did you smile just then, as you were sleeping?" he asked staring into her eyes.
"I was dreaming of Asgard again. Your mother came to me, and just like before, she told me not to be afraid," she replied. The rest of the dream she would keep to herself, for a while at least.
Wonder filled Thor's eyes. "You saw my mother in your dream, on Asgard? You are full of portents, Jane!" he exclaimed.
"I don't know about portents, I was probably just subconsciously reassuring myself," Jane responded. She would definitely keep the rest of her dream to herself! "It's dark out, how long have I slept?"
"I am still getting use to the passage of time here, but I think you would say an hour or two?" he said.
"Good, it must be time for dinner!" she replied enthusiastically. "Let's go out."
"Not yet," he murmured low, "Just now I think I will kiss you!"