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Chelsea Grin (18)
Hero's Welcome

"The price of victory is high, but so are the rewards."
~Paul Bryant

Loki saw light.

But that wasn't what pulled him in, because he was being pulled back by something else. A voice.

"Loki, please...Don't leave me. You can't be dead. Please. I love you...I love you so much..."

Someone was crying and pleading for him. But for some reason, he didn't know who it was. He couldn't remember. He struggled in vain to clear his clouded mind.

'Who is that? Who's calling me?'

Loki looked down and saw a woman, though she seemed more like a wraith. He could barely make out her translucent figure. Her voice was oddly alluring, almost beckoning him to come closer. Could she be the one?

'I'm tired...I just want to rest. That light is too bright. I want someplace dark where I can sleep for a while...'

Then something warm and soft touched his cheek.

The woman below instantly transformed. Her face became pale and gaunt. Her mouth split open to scream in anger. She reached out with a skeletal arm to grab him. Repulsed, Loki recoiled in fear.

'What in the Nine Realms is she so angry about?'

He turned his face upwards to see a beautiful young woman, who had rested her hand on his face. At first glance he thought it was Natasha. But her hair was long and black, not short and red. For some reason, her facial features greatly resembled Natasha's.

A gentle smile spread on her full lips. Her green eyes glowed with warmth and light. "Don't listen to her, Father. Mistress Death will not have you now."

Her voice seemed to soothe him, and at the same time resonate through his body and fill him with vigor. Loki blinked slowly, as if dazed in a trance. "Are you here to take me to Valhalla?"

"No...you will not rest there either. It is not your time yet. I'm here to guide you back to the realm of the living."

The woman took Loki's hand and led him away from the light, but not into the darkness either.

"Do not let go, Father. Your life hangs in the balance. To return to the living, you must trust me and hold on tightly."

Loki furrowed his brow in confusion. "Why do you call me-?"

"Shh...your body is very weak." Her finger was warm on Loki's lips. "Before restoring your physical self, your soul must be calm and rejuvenated."

He obeyed her by falling silent and remaining still. He let her gently guide him, feeling weightless and free in a world that transcended the boundaries of time and the reality of space. She seemed to know where she was going and what she was doing, so Loki trusted her word.

He did not know how much time had passed when she finally let go of his hand. "This is when I must leave you. We will meet again someday."

"Wait, don't go. I have so much to ask you."

"I'm sorry that I cannot tell you now. But when the time comes, all your questions will be answered. Farewell, Father..."

The young woman floated away from Loki and turned to leave. He saw faint outlines far in the distance, silent and unmoving. He peered harder...and he thought he saw a pair of young boys, a serpent, a wolf and a horse. When the woman approached them, they disappeared from sight altogether. But not before the woman looked over her shoulder, with a loving smile that graced her fair complexion. Her face seemed to fill his vision. It grew brighter and stronger, almost overwhelming.

Loki opened his eyes.

Natasha hovered over him, and her eyes widened in surprise. She reached out to touch him. Then out of fear of hurting him, she drew her hand away.

"Nat..." he croaked. His throat felt raw and unused; as soon as he tried to speak, he fell into a fit of coughs.

"Shh...don't try to talk. You're badly hurt."

"It was you, Natasha...You pulled me back."

She looked surprised. "You heard my voice?"

"The sweetest sound that ever filled the fiber of my being. It rang clear and true, stronger than the lure of death. Even the promise of eternal rest in Valhalla. I did not think it was my time yet. Not until I have spent it among the living, with the woman I love."

Then Loki laughed weakly. "My manner of speaking must sound odd to you. What do you Midgardians call it? What's the word...corny? Cheesy?"

A smile dispelled the somber look on Natasha's face. "You were being honest, so I don't care."

Loki did not mention the mysterious young woman. Who was she? And why did she call him Father? He knew for certain that he had sired no children. Even more unsettling...despite her black hair, why did she look so much like Natasha?

Thor burst into the hospital room with joy radiating from his face. "Loki, you're awake! Thank the gods. We had all feared you were lost."

"Well, I'm back."

Thor sat opposite of Natasha. "While you were unconscious, Father had Eir herself come to Midgard and check on you."

"Asgard's chief healer was here?"

Thor nodded. "Eir admitted to us that for all her knowledge of healing and herbal lore, she has never attempted to heal a Jotun before. She was unsure of how to proceed. She had, however, left a flask of Firebreeze for you before she departed."

Firebreeze was an herb found in Asgard, similar in shape, color and taste to the Midgardian mint. Its extracted juices were effective with soothing burns and promoting skin rejuvenation.

Thor gestured to the large freezer and air conditioning in the hospital room. "Eir concluded that the Midgardian technology here is sufficient enough to keep you cold and healthy."

"The doctors have been giving you painkillers too," Natasha said. "A normal human wouldn't be able to take the dosage you're receiving right now."

"How long have I been asleep?"

"Nearly a week now," Thor replied.

Natasha adjusted her woolen scarf. "Only medical personnel and the Avengers are allowed in your room. We have to come in with jackets, since it's so cold in here. You were suspended in liquid nitrogen for about three days before you could move to a hospital bed. Like Thor said, the healer from Asgard inspected you for a short time. Because you weren't conscious to drink the Firebreeze, the doctors had it pumped into you through an IV during hourly intervals."

"I see..." Loki struggled to lift his right hand. Skin covered it like a thin blue film; it was so new and translucent that he could see the muscles underneath.

"Try not to move for a while," Natasha said gently. "You need more time to recover your second layer of skin."

"How bad is it?"

Thor looked slightly uncomfortable. "You are healing quite steadily, thanks to the combined factors of your Jotun stamina and the Firebreeze. Still, you have sustained very serious wounds."

He didn't say anymore, and Natasha didn't speak up to add to his remarks.

Loki was growing impatient. "Do you have a mirror? I must see for myself."

Natasha, with an uneasy reluctance, held a mirror level to his face. At first he thought his eyes were bloodshot. Then he realized they were the natural red color of Jotun eyes. He was shirtless; the hospital light reflected off his bare, blue chest. To his embarrassment and horror, Loki noticed how little of his hair remained on his scalp.

He managed a wry, weak laugh. "I look awful."

"What matters is that you're alive," Natasha said firmly.

"Fear not, brother. You will be back to normal in time."

Loki's face painfully stretched when he tried to suppress a yawn. "I'm sorry...I feel so drowsy..."

Natasha pulled the blanket farther up to his chest. "Rest some more. You'll need it."

Before she left with Thor, Natasha dropped a gentle kiss on Loki's forehead. He closed his heavy eyelids and smiled. It felt like a drop of Firebreeze, soothing and pleasant.


The Avengers pampered him like a spoiled puppy since the day he woke up. He had never gotten so much attention before. It felt strange at first, then he came to appreciate their company and sentiments.

Steve had given Loki a handmade get-well card.

Bruce brought a Rubik's cube and a large book of Sudoku puzzles, to keep Loki active and occupied. Loki solved the Rubik's cube twice. The puzzle book was halfway filled with his weak yet steady handwriting.

After inspecting his tower and finding it surprisingly intact for the most part, Tony brought in various gadgets from his lab. Pepper would sometimes come in with lunch or dinner she had cooked, so Loki could get a reprieve from the usual hospital food.

Even Clint paid the occasional visit. The first time he came, he sat there awkwardly. After a period of silence, Clint extended a snapback cap to Loki.

"Here. To cover your head."

Loki nodded his thanks as the large hat fit comfortably on his almost naked head. With no more words to say, the S.H.I.E.L.D. archer made for the door.

"Barton."

"Yeah?"

"I haven't had the chance to say it until now...but thank you for saving my life."

"Where did you hear that from?"

"Everyone. I cannot express my gratitude enough."

Clint looked taken aback at seeing and hearing Loki's sincerity. He rubbed the back of his head modestly. "It's nothing, really." Then his face grew solemn. "You know...I've never seen Natasha so distraught. When we pulled you out of the bay, saw how messed up you were...she was so heartbroken."

Loki couldn't even imagine seeing for himself. He lowered his eyes and said softly, "Yes...I've heard her."

"I never want to see Nat like that again...so stay strong for her and me, all right?"

Loki met Clint's fierce gaze. "I promise."

Loki received a flood of letters and gifts from grateful citizens. Many children sent him badly drawn doodles, but he loved those most of all. It reminded him of his own drawings he had done as a child. He used to draw his family often; to him they were his heroes. Now it was his turn to be drawn as a hero.

However, Loki's heroic publicity also attracted many young women. They sent him large amounts of flattering gifts, including love letters and disturbingly accurate drawings of him. They proudly called themselves "Loki's Army."

Tony and Steve shared laughs when they found out about this.

"Looks like you got yourself some fangirls, Loki."

"Fangirls? I do not understand..."

"I think you have more than me!" Tony complained. "I'm actually jealous of you."

Steve smiled wryly when he thought about his fame during the 40's. "In my opinion, there's nothing to be jealous about."

Natasha knew about Loki's suddenly large fanbase, though she did not let it irk her. She knew that he only had eyes for her. While Loki always welcomed company, Natasha was clearly his favorite visitor. She brought nothing with her; just her presence was enough.

On February 9, 2013, The Avengers held a surprise birthday party for Loki in the hospital. Natasha and Steve had wheeled Loki out on his gurney. He looked quite surprised by the greeting. The Avengers kept him company throughout the night. Even Pepper, Coulson and Hill came over for a short time. The party ended with Loki dozing off into a peaceful sleep, surrounded by gifts and friends.

The next day after that was the beginning of Lunar New Year festivities, something Loki found out when old Ming surprised him with a visit.

The monk's orange robe was a stark contrast to the whiteness of Loki's room. "Your success from averting world destruction certainly calls for a celebration. According to the lunar calendar, today begins the year of the snake."

Loki cracked a smile. "Snakes? I am quite fond of them."

"I'm pleased to see that you are getting better. Here, I brought a little something for you. I hope you like sweets."

Ming brought out a small basket; through the transparent red wrapping, Loki could see an assortment of cakes and powdered candy. He also noticed a small red envelope, which depicted at the front a snake entwined among flowers and lanterns.

"This is beautiful..." Loki remarked. He opened it, and pulled out two hundred American dollars. His eyes widened. This was anything but little. "Oh Ming, you didn't have to..."

The monk smiled. "You deserve the gift. It's for good luck and prosperity for the new year."

"Is that so? One can never have too much luck." Loki thought of Natasha as he said this.

Shortly after Ming's departure, Natasha came into his room. Loki couldn't think of a better time for her to arrive.

Loki beamed at her. "Good afternoon, and happy new year."

Natasha looked skeptical. "But it's February 10th."

"Asian Midgardians follow the path of the moon, and today is the beginning of their new year."

Natasha took a seat at his bedside and glanced at the basket. "Hmm, that explains the gift. Who stopped by to see you?"

"A wise and good friend of mine. I wish you could meet him."

Loki reached for the red envelope and gave a bill to Natasha. "Here, we will split. I'd rather share my luck with you than keep it all to myself."

"A hundred dollars? No, I can't. It's your gift. You didn't have to-"

He winked. "That's exactly what I had said before." His voice took on a mock threatening tone. "You must keep it. Because if you give it back to me, I will rip it up."

She laughed. "In that case, it'll be better in my hands."

Then Loki smirked. "You know...this calls for a new year's kiss. You've introduced me to that little tradition back in January. I'm very eager for more."

Natasha obliged by leaning forward and locking lips with his. It was a slow and soft kiss, but filled with an overwhelming love and passion, that made them feel like they never wanted to break apart.

Yes, he felt very lucky indeed.


For the next few days, Loki was recovering nicely. His eyes softened from red to pink as the whites emerged. Despite the painkillers, Loki still felt like he was on fire...burnt raw, exposed and vulnerable. His new pink skin was as soft and delicate as a baby's. Overlapped with his Jotun skin, he appeared almost pinkish purple. For a while, Tony nicknamed him Barney.

Natasha had taken much longer to heal from her own wounds, and she envied him a bit for that. Nevertheless, his recovery was not without stress and excruciating pain. And he had done it all for her, if not the entire world.

When Loki was well enough to stand on his own feet, he was promptly given a proper award ceremony for everything he had done. The event was brief and private. The Avengers and every agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. were present to watch Loki receive his medal and initiation into the team. Even Odin was there, via telepathic form. Everyone's eyes were on Director Fury and Loki.

"Loki Laufeyson, do you swear to remain loyal to the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division at all costs?"

"I swear."

"Do you swear to protect Earth and its citizens, including its otherworldly allies?"

"I swear."

"And finally...do you swear to uphold integrity and justice?"

"I swear."

"Then on behalf of the United States government and myself, the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D, you are now an Avenger. Welcome to the team."

Applause rang out. Formality broke when Thor rushed forward and seized Loki into a tight embrace. The rest of the Avengers joined in. Even Fury cracked a smile as the team heartily congratulated the newest member.

For the first time since the ceremony, Odin spoke. "Forgive me for intervening on this occasion. But I would like to make an announcement that involves all of you."

"There's no need to apologize," Fury replied. "What is it you have to say?"

"It is the wish of the entire realm of Asgard, including myself, that we want to commemorate the Avengers. Not by mere words, but having a feast with your presence gracing our very halls."

A shocked silence fell over everyone. Steve was the first to reply. "All of us, going to Asgard?"

Thor's eyes lit up at the prospect of a grand feast. "Yes...most excellent, Father!"

The prospect of returning thrilled Loki. But only for a moment. Then doubt quickly settled into his thoughts.

'What if he still does not want me back? Most of Asgard still regards me as a war criminal.'

"Loki, I see the uncertainty in your eyes. You too are invited. In other words, you can return to Asgard."

He stiffened in shock. This was one of the few times he's rendered speechless. "Me? Allowed back? I...y-yes, I would be honored."

"Are we allowed to bring close acquaintances with us?" Thor inquired.

Odin nodded. "If that is what you wish. The palace is undergoing preparations as we speak. Of course, I do not want to force anyone against his or her will to go. Are there any objections?"

Bruce meekly raised his hand. "I'm not sure if a gathering like this would be a good idea for me."

Instant dissent from his teammates ensued.

"Come on, Bruce! It'll be fun!" Steve exclaimed.

Tony patted his shoulder. "Don't be the rain on our parade. Join us! You're part of the team."

"If the worst really does happen, I'm sure they have some kind of magic to hold back the Big Guy." Clint said.

"It won't be a proper celebration without you, fellow warrior." Thor said.

Finally, Bruce gave in with a grateful smile. "All right, I'll go. I'm sorry for being doubtful."

Then Coulson spoke up. "Director Fury, it's best if you go and represent S.H.I.E.L.D. After all, you were the one to assemble the Avengers." He turned to Odin. "I'm sorry, but I must decline. Agent Hill and I will stay here in the Director's place."

Fury nodded. "Very well, Agent Coulson. I trust that you and Agent Hill will effectively maintain S.H.I.E.L.D. operations while I'm gone."

Tony frowned. "Sorry you can't come with us, Phil. We'll bring back souveneirs, if you want."

Coulson grinned. "That would be nice. It's a real privilege for all of you to get a glimpse of worlds beyond our own."

"Has everyone else made up their minds?" Odin asked. "Then I will let the court know so they can hasten the preparations. The feast will begin in a few hours."

Steve was surprised. "You can get ready that quickly?"

"We are very efficient," Loki replied proudly. "We have held many a feast for various occasions. Though I must admit...it has been a long time since we've invited guests from Midgard."

Odin surveyed them with his one-eyed stare. "I look forward to seeing you personally. Farewell."

His projection disappeared, leaving everyone to talk among themselves.

Tony looked very excited. "I'm definitely bringing Pepper along."

"I will ask Jane, Darcy and Dr. Selvig if they want to accompany me," Thor said. "I'm sure they would be most pleased." He rose his voice to address his comrades. "After everyone is prepared, we should gather on the Helicarrier flight deck. From there, I can call Heimdall to summon the Bifrost. That will transport us to Asgard instantly."

Tony clapped his hands together. "Let's get ready and suit up, guys."

They dispersed quickly and eagerly. Loki followed Natasha home, of course. They took their time along the way, holding hands. Neither of their bodies were able to handle excess activities yet.

Natasha went to change and searched for the most elegant and formal dress.

"Loki, what color would be most appropriate for an Asgardian celebration?" she called out from her closet.

He pondered for a moment before answering. "Not black; it is for solemn occasions like funerals. And not red; we believe that women appear to lack fidelity in them. Gold, green or white would be best."

"All right, got it."

Loki waited patiently at the corner of her bed. Now that his magic was fully restored, he could conjure a change of clothes from Asgard just as easily as he had summoned his horse. Loki closed his eyes and visualized what he would pick from his own wardrobe. One of his nicest leather tunics replaced his Midgardian suit. He finished it off with a few plates of armor here and there. Nothing too ostentatious or flashy. He didn't feel like being encased in heavy armor anyway.

Loki heard the shower run. Feeling drowsy, he closed his eyes and laid down.

Loki woke up from his short nap when he heard the door click open. His breath hitched in his throat as Natasha emerged.

"I see you're dressed up already." Natasha glanced down. "I hope this is adequate."

"Adequate? Far from it. Natasha, you look so beautiful..." he murmured in awe.

The deep, dark green shade of her dress blew him away. It accentuated the color of her eyes and brought out the color of her fiery red hair. It started out as lacy at the top to smooth and flowing towards the bottom. For lack of better words for the moment, green looked damn fine on her.

Loki offered his arm and she gave him his. They teleported to the Helicarrier flight deck in an instant. The Avengers were assembled along with Fury, Pepper, Jane, Darcy and Dr. Selvig. The men, save for Thor in his Asgardian armor, wore tuxedoes. The women wore dresses of various types and colors.

Tony shot Loki and Natasha a sly glance. "I wonder what took you two so long."

Natasha rolled her eyes. "None of your business, Tony. And it's not what you think it is, anyway."

"Is everyone ready?" Thor asked.

They nodded in affirmation and gathered in a tight circle. Thor raised his head and cried out in a loud shout.

"Heimdall! Open up the Bifrost!"

An iridescent pillar of light descended from the sky and engulfed them. The powerful surge snatched them up. When the blinding white light faded, they found themselves in a circular golden room.

Tony's eyes were wide. "Whoa...that was pretty damn cool."

"Where are we?" Clint asked.

"This is the Observatory, where I keep watch on the border of Asgard."

Everyone turned to see Heimdall, whose quiet but deep voice resonated through the chamber. They circled the raised dais and made their way out. Heimdall pulled out his sword but remained in place.

"Not joining us for the feast, Gatekeeper?" Thor asked. "You are certainly free to come."

"I appreciate your offer, my prince. But my place is here. I must keep a vigilant watch at all times."

"Must be a very busy guy," Tony remarked.

"I could relate to him," Clint said.

Darcy's eyes were everywhere as she gawked at the overwhelming majesty of Asgard. Jane was more quiet about it, but she too had awe written all over her face.

They eventually met with a host of Asgardian guards, who would escort them to the palace. Along the way, Thor spoke up.

"My friends, I ask that you exercise dignity and formality in the palace, especially to Odin. Midgardian visitors are rare; my father has been gracious with extending an invitation to you all. So it is only natural to recuperate that with respect."

The Avengers nodded in understanding. Thor's stare had lingered on Tony the longest as he spoke. The billionaire crossed his heart. "Got it. I won't cause any trouble, I promise."

"So what do we do when the Allfather greets us?" Steve asked.

Thor briefly explained, and they were ready to make a procession into the palace. Bruce, Jane and Darcy looked somewhat unsettled by the sheer number of people. Steve, Tony and Clint couldn't help but feel underdressed compared to the armored Asgardian warriors. Loki suddenly felt self-conscious, and even a little nervous, as he approached the place he had called home.

'Odin may have permitted my return. But what if there are some who will react with hostility?'

To his relief, Loki received no harsh glares or whispers behind his back. In fact, he was getting quite the opposite. Thor's confident, proud stride hinted at his princedom. He was naturally at ease. And surprisingly, so was Natasha. She looked so graceful and regal, from her composed face down to the flow of her dress. If Loki hadn't known that she was from Midgard, he would've mistaken her to be of noble blood. He admired her for that.

When they arrived at the throne room, the guests from Earth got down on one knee and held their eyes to the ground. Thor and Loki remained standing and merely bowed at the waist.

Odin peered down, looking dignified and holding Gungnir as always. "Welcome home, Thor Odinson and Loki Laufeyson, princes of Asgard. And welcome to our honorable guests from Midgard: Nicholas Fury, Steve Rogers, Anthony Stark, Bruce Banner, Clint Barton, Natasha Romanoff, Erik Selvig, Jane Foster and Darcy Lewis."

Everyone looked surprised that each of them was addressed by name. Odin rose from his throne. "Come. I will direct you to the feast."

The people waited for Thor, Loki and their Midgardian comrades to follow Odin before trailing behind. They formed a massive procession to the dining hall.

"This is so wicked..." Darcy breathed.

Steve nodded his agreement. "I can't believe we're getting this kind of royal treatment. It's surreal."

What they saw next made their mouths drop. The biggest table they've ever seen, filled to the brim with every kind of food and drink imaginable, stretched out before them. Tall, golden chairs lined every side, with the most decorated ones reserved for Odin and his family.

Guards were available to move them in for the guests. On one side closest to Thor's family was Loki and the Avengers. On the other was Sif and the Warriors Three. As soon as things settled down, Odin stood up and raised his glass full of mead.

"Before we begin, let us drink to Loki's triumph over Surtur of Muspelheim. It will be remembered for generations to come. And let us not forget the comrades of Thor and Loki, nor their brave deed of protecting Midgard from the Chitauri."

The guests felt humbled by the loud applause they received. Everyone raised their glasses and echoed Odin's sentiments with loud cheers. Most Asgardians, including Thor and Loki, downed their drinks in one gulp. The guests, however, found the mead very strong. Even Tony took a tentative sip. The food was rich and immensely satisfying. On top of that, Sif and the Warriors were excited to meet Thor's friends from Midgard. Still getting used to being in Asgard, Loki mostly kept to himself. His tension began to slip away the more he talked with the people around him.

Thor rose to sing the Asgardian anthem. Everyone in the court joined in with gusto. As someone who extensively studied linguistics and spoke many languages, Natasha noticed that Asgardian sounded very much like Icelandic. After that, people would take turns to stand up and sing their own songs. This entertained the diners as they ate and drank. Thor eventually got Steve to sing the United States national anthem. Everyone could hear the pride and years of experience in his voice.

Then the God of Thunder proceeded to put Natasha on the spot. "Come, Natasha! Sing to us the song of your people!"

Her teammates yelled their encouragement. She politely declined several times. Loki winked at her.

"I know how beautifully you can sing."

She hid her blush and finally gave in.

"Rossiya, sviashennaya nasha derzhava,
Rossiya, lubimaya nasha strana!"

The Avengers were taken aback, and the Asgardians were impressed with how well she could sing. When she finished, Natasha received a boisterous standing ovation.

Thor clapped Steve on the back. "Tell me more about your anthem, Captain. It sounds very much like a war song, a tale."

"Well, it started out as a poem by Francis Scott Key, during the American Revolution against the British..."

Tony and Volstagg had a drinking contest, to determine who could guzzle down the most mead. It ended as a draw, because Tony claimed he had to try other food before he got full, and Volstagg wanted to stop so he could clean the foamy mess all over his beard.

Loki watched with barely contained disgust while Natasha suppressed laughter.

"Ah, this must be the woman Odin has been talking about."

Loki and Natasha looked up to see a beautiful, statuesque woman approaching them. Her silky blonde hair tumbled down her shoulders. Her dark blue eyes carefully surveyed Natasha as she curtsied.

"I've been anxious to meet her. I am Freyja of Vanaheim. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

Natasha rose and returned the action. "Natasha Romanoff of Midgard."

Loki was glad to see that she was catching on to their customs quickly.

"When I had heard about a woman as fierce as Lady Sif and beautiful as myself...I was unsatiably curious." Freyja glanced between the two. "I must say, Lady Natasha...I sincerely commend you. It is hard for Loki to get along with anyone, let alone a Midgardian."

"People change," Loki replied mildly.

"Of course. I certainly do not deny your selfless and heroic deed in slaying Surtur." Freyja curtsied again. "Forgive me for keeping you from your dinner. Enjoy the rest of your night."

Once Freyja was out of earshot, Loki and Natasha sat back down. Natasha's eyes followed Freyja, who returned to her seat next to a lean, handsome man with the same blonde hair.

As they resumed eating, Natasha turned to Loki. "She said she was from Vanaheim. Does that mean she's not Asgardian?"

"Yes. She is a Vanir," he replied. "Her father Njord is the ruler of Vanaheim, and her twin brother Freyr is the heir. The Vanir waged war with us many years ago and lost. Freyr and Freyja, children at the time, were sent here as hostages to discourage any further rebellion. They've been living in Asgard since."

"How have they been handling that?"

Loki shrugged. "At first glance, they may not look or act any different from us. Vanaheim is more of a state than a true, independent realm. It has been relying on Asgard's military strength for many years. In return, they've had their trade routes open to exchange Vanir-exclusive goods. Here in Asgard, we highly value their silk, wool, satin...anything you could possibly wear apart from armor."

Natasha took a sip of mead, which she was getting used to. "So it was a win-win situation. Then why did they decide to break the truce with war?"

Loki narrowed his eyes. "The Vanir wanted to prove that they were strong and worthy enough to stand on their own. Njord had attempted many times for Vanaheim to be annexed. But Odin would not have it. The Vanir grew rebellious, and war broke out. Fortunately it was short-lived; they knew almost nothing about effective warfare." Loki rubbed his head. "I'm sorry. Are you at a loss from all this otherworldly history?"

"No, I understand. I've grown up with political turmoil all my life. It's fascinating to hear."

"Good. I'm glad we share yet another interest." Loki broke a loaf of bread and shared it with Natasha. "Fertility and beauty are the Vanirs' top priority. They are rather infamous for producing many children in a short period of time...and often starting as soon as they come of age."

Loki glanced at Freyja, who sat next to Freyr. "By Vanir standards, Freyja should have had children a long time ago."

"Couldn't she just marry someone among Asgardian royalty, if she has access and freedom among the court?"

Loki shook his head in disdain. "For all their lack of power, the Vanir hold fast to superficial rules. It is forbidden for them to marry and procreate outside their own race."

"So they could keep their bloodlines pure."

"Exactly. There is no other Vanir besides Freyr to keep Freyja company among the Asgardians." Loki lowered his voice. "Rumor has it that Freyr and Freyja have an incestuous relationship."

Her first impulse was a quick glance at the Vanir siblings. But she refrained and kept her eyes down as she finished her glass.

"As a former victim of many rumors, I'm not keen on spreading it maliciously. But after growing up with them for many years, I strongly suspect that the Vanir twins have crossed the line at some point."

"Does Odin know?"

"He never publicized any misgivings, but he did take precautions. He made them live in separate halls even to this day. But knowing Freyr and Freyja, like all Vanir, they are stubborn and refuse to submit. It's strange, though...despite their frequent, er...frivolous activities, Freyja still has not birthed any children."

Loki's last sentence reminded Natasha of her own life. She had earned the name Black Widow for her talent in seducing men.

He caught the change of expression on her face. "I would not invest all your sympathy on the likes of Freyja. You have to watch your back around her."

He did not mention that Freyja had made several advances on him. Now that Natasha came into his life as a significant other, he warily wondered if Freyja would continue her futile, unnecessary efforts.

After dining came the dancing. By that time, Tony was sober enough to dance with Pepper. Loki and Natasha also waltzed around the ballroom. Years of experience made their dance fluid, natural and effortless. They exchanged with Thor and Jane a few times. Natasha even danced with Clint for a bit. Those not dancing were either watching or in deep conversation among themselves. Fury and Odin were discussing negotiations for the two realms. Dr. Selvig animatedly talked to the Warriors Three, expressing his enthusiasm for the reality that he once thought were childhood stories all his life. Darcy flitted around the ballroom, dancing here and there with different men. She finally settled with Fandral. They danced and laughed at the fact each found a suitable partner. Bruce remained sitting, content with watching his friends having a good time. Steve was naturally being the chivalrous gentleman, approaching young women without partners and offering to have a dance.

When Loki returned to the table, Queen Frigga greeted him with a tight hug and a kiss.

"Welcome home, Loki. I've missed you."

"As I have for you, Mother."

He swore he felt his heart melt at feeling her love. The festivities continued even as Loki began to grow tired and needing sleep. He excused himself and made for his bedchamber. The guests from Earth were given their own beds to stay in for the night. He figured they would really enjoy the hospitality, since even the guestrooms seemed fit for kings. He caught sight of Natasha down the corridor. She met his gaze, stopped and smiled.

"Hey Loki. Are you going to bed?"

"Yes. Now I want some peace and quiet after all that partying."

"I'm curious; may I come to your bedroom before I go to my own?"

"Of course. Follow me."

For some peculiar reason, he felt a little excited that he was about to show her his room. It would be like sharing with her a part of his world. When they approached his door, Loki let her in first. Her gaze swept the room, noting how clean and polished it was. Her eyes settled on his desk, which was piled with many books and stray sheets of paper. Loki prickled in embarrassment.

"I'm sorry for the mess. It has been a long time since I've been back."

"No, this isn't messy at all. Trust me, I've seen worst...namely every living space belonging to Tony. You have a very nice room."

Loki managed a small smile. "Thank you."

Natasha settled onto his bed. Seeing her in that form-fitting dress, her hair and skin beautifully illuminated by the moonlight, and sitting on his bed aroused him. He had an urge to kiss her right there and then, letting his passion unfurl to ravish her and fill her with his love. He suppressed his carnal desire as quickly as it sprang to his mind.

'Stop it,' he scolded himself. 'If you keep thinking like that, you would be no better than Freyja.'

Loki sat next to her, facing the window that allowed them a spectacular view of the Asgardian nightscape.

"How do you like it here so far?" he asked softly.

"Beyond...my wildest dreams. It's such a beautiful place; there's so much light everywhere, even in the middle of the night." she turned to him, and he felt like he could fall into the depths of her green eyes. "But Asgard alone wouldn't feel as wonderful as being here with you."

Pure happiness glowed bright in his eyes. His voice was low and soft, just as the night was still. "I've been here for as long as I can remember, almost all my life. But with you here, I feel so complete now. I feel like I am truly home."

Loki leaned against Natasha and brushed his lips across her pale neck. She tilted his head up with her fingers and kissed him. His arms snaked around her waist, gripping her firmly by the waist as they softly fell into bed together. Her skin against his felt electrifying. He made a trail of slow, fluttering kisses down her neck and across her collarbone. Natasha leaned back and a soft moan escaped her mouth. She ran her fingers through locks of his short black hair. He felt stiff and heavy between his legs. Love for her coursed through his body, making him feel hot and numb at once. Loki stopped kissing her and held her close to his chest. Her pale skin was flushed pink, her eyes dark and dilated with desire. Loki was tempted to fuel that flame. Then he seemed to control herself, and planted one last kiss on her lips before relinquishing his hold on her.

"I will...um, let you retire to your bedchamber now."

Natasha suppressed her blush and composed herself as well. A small smile graced her lips. "Yeah...I'll see you tomorrow. Thank you for an enjoyable night."

She departed without a sound, leaving Loki to fall into the most pleasant and soothing sleep he hadn't experience in a long time.

'No...thank you, Natasha. You've made my homecoming all the more wonderful.'


Yes, Loki totally cockblocked himself. Loki'd! As all BlackFrost fics have some element of spiciness to them, I felt this story too would lead to the inevitable. But I wanted to handle the hotness without making it too risque, if that makes sense.

Happy birthday, Tom Hiddleston! Right after that is Vietnamese New Year! I love celebrating the new year twice. ;) Time to spend some of that lucky moolah on anime box sets! :D