Author's Note: Sorry again for the delay in this chapter! I hope you all had a chance to read my Valentine's Day One-Shot (Dramione)! If not, pop over and check it out when you finish this beauty of a chapter! It does work as a prequel to this story, as well as stand on its own. Thank you to those of you that left lovely reviews! I'm so thrilled you're loving this story! A huge thanks as always to my beta, Tina, as well as a shout out to Trinity for helping me with the song recs! Anyways, I'm sure you're eager to read, so get going! Things heat up right away!

Disclaimer: All non-original characters, plot points, and information belongs to those at Marvel Studios, Warner Brothers, or J.K. Rowling. The title, "Wolves without Teeth" comes from the song of the same title by the fantastic Of Monsters and Men. The cover photo is a mashup I created from photos found on Google. The story plot and dialogue belongs to me. I do not write for profit.

Full Summary: In the age old fight of good versus evil, two souls converge in a battle to stop the end of all worlds. With the universe crumbling around them, Loki and Hermione find themselves connected by more than just their magical abilities. A myth becomes reality when an old foe comes tearing through the realms seeking revenge upon those who wronged him. What will happen when Loki and Hermione discover there's much more to their connection than meets the eye? Will they be forced to sacrifice everything they've ever wanted in order to save the nine realms or will love prevail?

Wolves without Teeth
Pairing: Hermione Granger/Loki Laufeyson
Rating: M (Rated Mature for adult language, violence, and sexual situations)
Part Ten: Midgard
Song Recommendations: "S&M" by Rihanna, "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" by Trevor Yuile, "Right Kind of Wrong" by Leann Rimes, and "I Put a Spell on You" by Annie Lenox

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"When is a monster not a monster?
Oh, when you love it."
— Caitlyn Siehl
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Midgard

Loki woke slowly, unable to figure out why he was so warm, or what was making his nose particularly itchy. One thing was for certain; he was undeniably comfortable and sated for the first time in years—scratch that—centuries. Wrinkling his nose as the itching continued, Loki blinked his green eyes open to identify the issue. They then widened in realization, the night before flooding his foggy mind. Currently, Hermione was tucked closely to his body, her warmth making him feel cozy underneath the fur blanket, and her over exuberant hair tickling his nose. That explained the itching, at least. Smirking, Loki recognized it was because of Hermione's willingness to have him last night that he was satiated for the first time since before Thor traveled to New Mexico. Had he really been celibate that long? Peering down at the sleeping witch, Loki decided it didn't matter because Hermione was the most wonderful companion he'd ever had the opportunity to bed. Even the hasty sex they'd shared last night made him feel like they were connecting on an entirely different plane, and in all honesty, the Rime Diamonds most likely contributed to this factor.

Using the hand that wasn't securing Hermione's body against his own, Loki trailed his fingers delicately over her plump bottom, moving over the smooth expanse of her back until he could tangle his hand in her curls. She remained fast asleep, giving him more time to examine her freely. Her eyelids flickered gently as she dreamed and her breath puffed lightly against his chest. Idly, Loki wondered what she dreamt about when it wasn't him. At times, Loki missed their shared dreams, but now that they were aware of one another, there was no need to connect that way. The Rime Diamonds knew they'd found one another and were in the process of physically binding their bodies and souls. As his fingers continued snaking their way through her curls, Loki thought about what the dead Jotun prophet explained to him.

The Jotun told him that with the Rime Diamonds, one could harness the power from the stars and become the most powerful being in the universe. The only catch, you had to be bound to your soulmate, meaning they shared this power with you. You also had to be bound absolutely by mind, body, and soul first. Loki gazed thoughtfully down at Hermione's sleeping form. They were already bound by their minds, and after last night, they were clearly close to being bound bodily. Essentially, the soul binding was in progress, but how was he to know for certain when it was completed? Perchance, Hermione could fill him with more details of her research. She was studying the combining of magic and astrophysics, which is essentially what they would be conducting once their connection was complete.

Loki was torn from his musings as Hermione stirred against him, nuzzling closer into his chest and causing his fingers to pull lightly at her hair. Her face wrinkled in slight discomfort, but Loki did not relax his grip, instead he used her hair to tilt her neck backward before placing a wet, hot kiss below her ear. "Good morning, Hermione," he whispered, letting his lips linger on her warm skin. He felt her shiver in response, her hand coming out to grip his hip.

"Mmmm, good morning." Hermione's eyes opened slowly, and Loki was pleased to see how dilated her pupils were with desire.

"Did you sleep well?"

"I did, thank you." She twisted her head a bit, as if trying to get him to release his hold, but he only pulled tighter. "Loki," she whined. "What are you doing?"

With a toothy grin, Loki brought his lips back down to her ear. "If we are to share a bed, there are a few rules you should be aware of, my pet." He felt her shiver again, either with fear or anticipation. Hoping it was the latter, he sank his teeth into the soft lobe before him and tugged. When he was rewarded with a breathy moan from Hermione, he rocked his hips, so she could feel the effect she had on him.

"Oh," she gasped, eyes falling shut once more. Instinctively, her leg wrapped around his waist, bringing his cock closer to where she wanted him most. As he made contact with her burning core, she repeated the gesture, and rocked her hips back against his. After a few moments of shared bliss, Hermione sighed and opened her eyes, so she could see his face. "I'm assuming you're referring to the fact that you're a bit of a dominant in bed." She raised her eyebrows in question, causing a smirk to appear on Loki's face.

With his fingers still tangled in her curls, Loki scratched at her scalp with his nails. "You are a clever witch, aren't you?" She was always surprising him with how perceptive she could be. He was curious as to how she figured him out so easily. Was it the playful slap from the night before, or another characteristic that steered her towards his sexual preferences? Either way, her calm acceptance of his dominant side was a good indication that she was not so unfamiliar with his ways and would allow him to conduct these behaviors in bed with her. "Tell me, Hermione, how familiar are you with such sexual endeavors?"

With her cheeks flushed, and a renewed arousal pulsing in her lower belly, Hermione decided she might as well be open about her past sexual experiences. She was no blushing virgin by any means, not to mention all the experimentation she and Draco had gotten into once they'd started sleeping together. Oh no, Hermione was quite certain she would be far from a disappointment to Loki. With a smirk to rival his own, Hermione reached down and took hold of Loki's cock and shifted so she could position him at her opening. Hearing his sharp intake of breath at her boldness, she glanced up and licked her lips, watching as his eyes followed the movement. She could already tell, sex with Loki was going to be fantastic. They were both so attuned to the other's body that they were practically humming with desire.

"I have to admit," she began, "I'm more acquainted with your particular preference than you'd think I would be." Once she'd admitted this, she guided him inside her awaiting warmth before tightening her leg around his back. For a moment, she was rendered speechless as she breathed heavily, adjusting to his length. Before Loki could respond, Hermione shifted her hips, retreating and then slamming their hips back together. "I love being tied up." She rotated her hips drawing another breathless gasp from his lips. "I've tried handcuffs, chains and whips, rope, and shoelaces just to name a few." Slowly, Loki's fingers extracted from her tangled hair so he could reach down and grip her hip tightly, helping her as she rode him where they lay on their sides. "I refuse to use anything that draws blood…it reminds me too much of when I was tortured."

"That's understandable," Loki grunted out as he continued to pound into her wet heat. "What else do you enjoy? I want to know everything." He watched as her eyes widened when he thrust into her, particularly hard. She threw her head back, her brown hair cascading over the white pillows.

"Whips…clamps and …Oh yes! Blindfolds turn me on like you wouldn't believe." She was gasping, her movements becoming irregular the closer she grew towards orgasm, but Loki wasn't done with her yet. He needed to know more. Taking control of their pace, he slowed their hips, wanting to draw this out for as long as possible.

"What about paddles?" His question was rewarded with a cheeky grin.

"Who doesn't enjoy a good spanking?" Growling, Loki surged forward and captured those sassy lips with his own, nearly bruising them with the intensity of the kiss. He felt Hermione attempt to smile, but he turned them, so he was now on top, his hips pounding down into hers. The change in momentum brought Hermione to orgasm, her back arching and her breasts pushing into Loki's chest. She threw her head backwards, their lips separating as a shout resonated from her mouth, her muscles clenching around his pumping cock. Not quite there himself, Loki continued his relentless rhythm as he brought a hand up to tangle in her curls once again. Tugging, he felt a tingle of pleasure when she whimpered in pain; so he did it again.

"Loki...," her breathless pleading was just what he needed to tip him over that edge into orgasm, his balls tightening deliciously as he filled her with his seed. Biting down on her shoulder, he refrained from calling out as stars exploded behind his closed eyes. He was surprised when she wrapped her hips tighter around his waist and met him thrust to thrust until she was contracting around his softening penis for a second time. The mewling sounds that tumbled from her bruised lips were maddening, and if that didn't make him just want to stay in bed and ravish her all day long; he didn't know what else could. Eventually, though, their movements stilled and Loki turned onto his back, sliding from Hermione's damp folds.

She followed after him, placing her head across his chest and wrapping an arm securely around his waist. They were quiet for a while, both trying to get their breathing back under control. Sighing contentedly, Hermione placed a gentle kiss to his chest before glancing upwards. "That was…"

"Enlightening."

"Yes, it most definitely was." He hummed in agreement, the vibration echoing through his chest and into her head. Wishing they could lie together like this all day, Hermione was reluctant to ask her next question. "What time do you suppose it is? Have we missed breakfast?"

Snorting decisively, Loki slid his large hand up and down the soft skin of Hermione's back. "Do not fret, breakfast will still be laid out by the time we get there. I suspect Thor will be aware of our current situation. No doubt he went to my chambers when he awoke and found them empty." Hermione snuggled closer to his side, her hair sticking to the dampness of his skin.

"Will he be angry we've slept together? I'm not entirely sure I can read him when it comes to our particular relationship." She lifted her brown eyes to look at him, and he couldn't help but feel a bit curious as to how Thor would take the news of their coupling.

"I would not concern yourself with his trepidations over my involvement with you. I fear he will have more important issues to fret over in the near future. For instance, how is he going to cope with taking the throne and Jane wanting to go back to Midgard?" Hermione's face crumpled as she contemplated this question.

"You don't think Jane is going to stay here?"

"Do you?" With a sigh, Hermione pushed herself into a sitting position, making Loki want to reach out and grasp her plump breasts. As if anticipating this, she seized the discarded blanket and secured it around her shoulders, hiding her assets from view for the time being.

"I suppose not. Her work is on Earth, and even though she loves her research here, there is so much left to be explored back home."

"I think your feisty friend is more likely to stick around than Jane is."

"Darcy? Why do you say that?" She looked down into Loki's face as he readjusted himself, crossing his ankles and sprawling out in all his naked glory. Hermione swallowed her returning arousal, knowing that if they got going again there would be no breakfast, or possibly lunch, in their near future. Tentatively, she reached out and brushed a lock of Loki's hair back from his forehead. With surprising agility, he snatched her wrist into his, squeezing gently before pulling the palm to his mouth. Leaving a scorching kiss upon the sensitive flesh, he closed his eyes briefly before releasing her wrist.

"I suspect she'll be spending some time here on Asgard, and on Vanaheim as well, if my observations are correct." He smirked, making Hermione roll her eyes.

"If you are referring to her and Hogun becoming more than just acquaintances, then I'm sure you'll be sorely mistaken. I can't see Darcy leaving her Earth life behind so easily either." Feeling suddenly sad, Hermione looked away to stare out the balcony doors. "To be honest, that would be a difficult choice for anyone to make." She felt the bed stir next to her, and then Loki was there, tucking her hair behind an ear, so he could see her face properly.

"You are wondering what will happen to us—after Fenrir is taken care of." Shifting onto her knees, she turned and wrapped her arms around his waist and placed her head on his chest, so she could listen to the beating of his heart.

"I have a life on Earth—I'm the Head of my department, and I have to finish my Astrophysics degree. Plus, my parents are in Australia, and then, of course, there are all of my friends to think about." Choking back emotions she wasn't expecting to feel so openly, she hugged Loki closer. "I never in my wildest dreams expected to be bound to an immortal."

"I'm not immortal, Hermione. I can be killed, and if that remarkably does not occur, eventually I will grow old and die." The sadness radiating from Hermione's small being was enough to make Loki sway on his knees, so he wrapped his arms around her and guided them back down into a sitting position. "I will not give you an ultimatum. You are free to choose your own path. Now, let us put such unpleasant thoughts away for the time being. I want to bathe you before we head down to breakfast." He tugged playfully at her blanket, watching with delight as it pooled around them on the rumpled bed.

A small smile gracing her lips, Hermione leaned forward to press a chaste his to his lips. "I fear at this rate we're never going to make it to breakfast, my mischievous lover."

"Perhaps, brunch would be more to your suiting, my lady." Then, with a swiftness she wasn't expecting, Loki scooped her into his arms and rolled them from the bed. Landing nimbly on his feet, he held Hermione securely to his chest before trotting into the bathing room. Loki couldn't help the large grin that spread across his pointed face as Hermione giggled merrily at his uncharacteristic display of playfulness. He was glad that her sorrow was dissipated for the time being. There would be time to discuss their future later, for now he would enjoy the company of his lovely woman.

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Breakfast was long over by the time Hermione and Loki emerged from her rooms and snuck back upstairs so he could dress in fresh clothing. Luckily, there were no guards on duty to see their blatant 'walk of shame' as Hermione called it. Most likely, Thor told them to skive off until he was returned. If Loki had his way, he'd spend every night wrapped in Hermione's arms, but alas, he knew there were expectations to be upheld—like the fact that he was still supposedly a prisoner of Asgard. Technicalities. As Loki guided Hermione into the dining hall, one hand protectively placed on her lower back, lunch was already set upon the large wooden table. He wanted to roll his eyes at the sudden quiet that overtook the room, but he managed to keep his façade neutral as not to embarrass Hermione.

"Look what the cat dragged in." Darcy drawled, a playful grin on her face. "We were wondering when you two would emerge for some air."

Despite the blooming blush on her fair cheeks, Hermione shot her friend a dark look as Loki helped her into a seat before taking the one next to her. "Not that it's any of your business, but I had to escort Loki back to his chambers for a change of clothes before we could come down here. He was kind enough to stay with me last night and helped me deal with my demons." She reached for a platter of vegetables, but Loki beat her to it, spooning some onto her plate. Mumbling a quiet 'thank you', she returned her attentions to Darcy.

"I bet that wasn't the only thing he helped you deal with."

"Darcy!" Jane scolded her friend, her own cheeks turning a bright red. "What in the world? What she means to say, Hermione, is that we're glad you've finally decided to join us again. We've missed you." Glaring, Jane huffed before picking up her discarded utensils. "Honestly, Darcy, sometimes I wonder about you."

"Oh, come off it, Jane. I was just having a bit of fun." Darcy didn't look nearly as apologetic as she should, but Hermione didn't mind. She was in a blissfully relaxed mood this afternoon, and she only had Loki to thank for that. Even Darcy's playful teasing couldn't wipe the smile from her face. Deciding to let her friend off the hook, Hermione laughed and shrugged her shoulders.

"I won't deny anything, but what Loki and I get up when we're alone is not really the best of topics to discuss while we eat." She took the fork Loki offered her, giving him a private wink. Under the table, he pinched the inside of her thigh, causing her to squirm.

"I don't know, Hermione. Perhaps, they'd like to hear about that little trick you showed me in the bath—"

"And that is where I put my foot down, Loki. Enough." Thor spoke up as he and the Warriors Three, minus Fandral, joined the ladies and Loki at the table.

"More like putting the hammer down." Darcy commented as Thor placed the heavy weapon upon the food laden surface of the table, causing the platters to rattle.

Loki quirked an eyebrow at the God of Thunder as he relaxed in his chair. "Come now, brother. I'm sure you wouldn't mind sharing some of the tricks you and Jane get up to behind closed doors."

"I suggest you mind your tongue before I take out my frustration from this morning on you. If it wasn't for your complicated relationship with Hermione, you would still be locked up in your room where I wouldn't have to deal with your incongruous remarks." With that said, Thor nodded at the thoroughly scolded Loki before helping himself to lunch.

Sucking at his teeth, Loki glared at his brother before returning his attentions to the meal before him. It would be unwise to pick an argument when they were about to discuss planning a trip to Midgard. If he didn't play nice, they would leave him behind. Beside him, Hermione shot him a concerned look, but he held out a hand as if to indicate he was alright. He was glad when she refrained from using their telepathy to discuss the situation. It was bad enough to be reprimanded by Thor, let alone in front of the woman he was trying to impress. Tuning back into the conversation going on around him, Loki was intrigued to discover Sif and Fandral had declined an invitation to lunch and that Hogun had once again chosen to sit next to Darcy. It appeared everyone in their company was pairing off, not that anyone would believe him about Sif and Fandral though.

After they all ate their fill and were settled back into the quiet comfort of small talk and playful banter, Hermione decided to get something off of her chest. So far, everyone was being overly cordial with her, and she wanted that to stop. She hated feeling like she was made of fine china and everyone was afraid to break her. Setting aside her wine goblet, she saw Loki watching her out of the corner of her eye. He obviously felt the turmoil she was currently dealing with. They'd barely discussed plans for going after Fenrir, and she was growing increasingly nervous that they were tip-toeing around the subject, afraid she might run off and hide away again. Well, Hermione Granger was no damsel in distress. Did she suffer from depression and PTSD? Yes. Did she have skeletons and demons hiding in her closet? Absolutely. However, these things were a small fraction of who she really was—they did not define her.

Clearing her throat, Hermione tried to suppress the anxiety that was threatening to take over. She wanted to make sure her friends, these wonderful people that took her into their hearts and homes, understood she hadn't meant to hurt anyone. When everyone's stare was firmly on her, Hermione lifted her head and tried to plaster an apologetic smile on her face. Underneath the table, she hid her hands, so they wouldn't see the way they trembled.

"I wanted to take a minute to apologize before we began planning our return to Earth. I understand that Odin's death was foretold, but my careless mistake allowed for his end to come sooner than intended." She took a shuddering breath, closing her eyes briefly to fight back the tears there. Feeling Loki's cool hand intertwine with her own under the table, she opened her eyes once more. "It was inconsiderate of me to close myself off the way that I did, and for that I am sorry. I know you could have used my guidance and support during this troubling time, and we should have left for Earth days ago." Finished speaking, Hermione squeezed Loki's hand for comfort as she awaited her friend's responses. Jane was the first to speak, her voice kind with understanding.

"Hermione, none of us were angry with you. We were more worried than anything, especially when you sealed yourself up in your room." Darcy joined in then, her jovial mood gone for the time being.

"We didn't want you to suffer alone. We wanted to be there for you when you needed us the most." Hermione didn't know what to say to that, so it was lucky Thor took that moment to stand and move to kneel by her chair. She looked into his friendly face, tears prickling her eyes.

"I know we've already discussed my poor treatment of this situation, but I want to reiterate my feelings. Odin was my father, and I will mourn his loss for some time, but his death does not change the way I perceive you. Fenrir murdered him while he rested in the Odinsleep. It was a coward's move." Sighing, Thor's head dropped forward, his blond hair hiding his weary face. "I should have had a guard in place outside his chambers. That was a mistake that will haunt me for the rest of my life." He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder and squeezed gently. Hermione felt a tingle of jealousy zip through the connection from Loki, but she chose to ignore it for the moment. "I want you to understand that I do not blame you—none of us do, because we are all at fault in some way."

Glancing around Hermione saw that everyone was nodding in agreement. She did feel better knowing that she wasn't alone in thinking she were to blame. After all, no one was sure Odin was going to wake up after the duress he'd been through over the past few years. She kept her mouth shut about that though, not wanting to bring any negative attention to Loki. Finally allowing a smile to reform on her face, Hermione unlaced her fingers from Loki's and placed her hand over top Thor's. She knew the gesture would irritate her lover, but she was not going to allow his jealousy to stop her from showing affection to her friends from time to time.

"I appreciate that more than you can imagine, Thor. Thank you." Then, wiping away the few stray tears that had escaped her eyes, she laughed lightly and addressed the room. "Now, let's get to work—Fenrir will not be wasting any time in planning his next move, and neither should we!"

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Over the next few hours, the plans for their return trip to Midgard came together with little to no significant issues. It was decided that they would make Jane's lab the base of operations seeing as S.H.I.E.L.D. was already aware of it anyway. Speaking of S.H.I.E.L.D., they were all in agreement that it was time to inform the agency of their particular predicament. However, maintaining the secrecy and well-being of the Wizarding community was to be upheld. Hermione only wanted a handful of people outside their group to know of its existence. Upon arriving on Earth, Thor would get in contact with Coulson and Tony Stark to make the arrangements. In order for this to work, Hermione would need to meet with Kingsley, as well as Harry and Draco to set up their end. Besides, it wasn't as if the British government didn't already know of their existence. It was simply a matter of keeping the rest of the world oblivious.

With that settled, they moved on to deciding who else to recruit for help besides S.H.I.E.L.D. and Hermione's Ministry coworkers. Thor suggested contacting all the Avengers, but Hermione and Jane agreed that with the current turmoil within the ranks, it may not be the best of ideas. With that said, Hermione asked if there was a way to contact the Scarlet Witch. Having another person with advanced Magical abilities such as her and Loki could be a huge advantage, especially as she had mind control abilities that didn't require an illegal spell. Wanda was added to the list. After remaining mostly quiet during the entire process, Loki spoke up requesting his magical cuff to be altered so he could fully participate in the battle when the time came. Needless to say, this brought the conversation to an abrupt halt.

"Absolutely not." Thor bellowed, his fist crashing down onto the table with such force the goblets full of wine wobbled precariously. "The last time you were given free reign of your magic during an important battle, you deceived us into thinking you were dead. I will not fall for your trickeries again." Pinching the bridge of his nose, Loki closed his weary eyes before responding.

"Have you forgotten the reasoning behind that so quickly, brother? If I had remained alive, how would I have discovered Odin's treacherous plans?" Shaking his head with a small laugh, Loki continued his explanation, "I would also like to point out that Asgard flourished under my rule. Not once did I use my seat of power as a tool of vengeance, despite having wanted to."

"If you came forward with your suspicions, you would not have needed to fake your murder, Loki."

"Would you have believed me?" The two gods stared hard at one another, unwaveringly. Loki knew he had his brother cornered with this question. There was no way Thor would have believed Odin capable of such deceitful plans all those years ago. Eventually, Thor slumped into his chair, conceding to Loki's reasoning.

"I would not. I am still hesitant to take your word as it is. With that said, we will be traveling to Midgard, a planet you've tried to conquer in the past. Who is to say you will not try to do so again?" Loki picked nervously at his left hand as he contemplated his brother's words. It was true, the thought of an attempt at taking rule of Midgard was ever-present in the back of his mind, but now he had Hermione to worry about. This was her planet; he could not consciously do something that would hurt her. Their bond made it nearly impossible.

"I can assure you; I have no plans of securing Midgard as my own. I have not forgotten the gracious offer you've proffered if we are to survive our battle with Fenrir." Crossing his arms, Loki ignored the pointed look Hermione shot in his direction. No one, not even Hermione, was aware that Thor promised him Jotunheim when everything was said and done.

Irritated with the two gods, Hermione pushed her chair from the table and stood, leaning forward with both hands planted firmly on the table. "I will take full responsibility for Loki and whatever misdeeds he manages to participate in. I'll adjust his magical cuff so that he can use hurtful spells only towards those that seek to harm him in return. If he breaks his promise to behave, you can imprison the both of us—separately. He can be brought back here to the Asgardian dungeons, and I will be incarcerated within the Private Vaults at Azkaban, the Wizarding prison." Hermione knew for a fact that Loki would never wish to see her imprisoned, so this was the best arrangement to make with Thor. She blatantly ignored Loki's heated glare; she knew he would be furious of her suggestion, but it needed to be done.

"That's a heavy promise to make," Darcy practically whispered. "You do realize his title consists of the phrase 'Mischief and Lies' right?" Refraining from rolling her eyes at her friend, Hermione kept her gaze steady on Thor sitting at the head of the table. His blue eyes regarded her intensely as he thought about her proposition. Loki sat stone still in his chair, afraid to breathe it seemed. Hermione could feel the uneasiness buzzing through their connection, but she pretended not to notice. Finally, Thor seemed to break, shaking his head as if to clear his muddled thoughts.

"I accept your terms, Hermione. While I still have reservations about allowing Loki to accompany us, I am aware that his talents will be helpful in the long run." Brushing hair out of his face, Thor gave them all a nod of assurance. Hermione returned to her seat, unable to avoid the dark look Loki was giving her. Instead of trying to diffuse his anger, she returned her attention to Thor as he began to address them again. "Now that we have settled that matter, we need to discuss who will stay behind and keep Asgard secure in my absence."

As conversation began, Hermione tried reaching out to Loki with her mind, but received nothing in return. Eventually, it was decided that Lady Sif, Fandral, and Volstagg would remain behind; Hogun requested to travel with them to Midgard. With that settled, they all went toward their separate ways to collect any items they would need for the trip before meeting at the Observatory so Heimdall could transport them to Midgard. Still refusing to speak to her, Loki asked Thor to escort him to his room for the few items he would need for the trip, not excluding his Rime Diamond scepter. They were all in agreement that without the pair of diamonds, Hermione and Loki's magic may not be strong enough to beat Fenrir. It was dangerous bringing such powerful magic objects to Earth, but it was a risk Hermione was willing to take if it meant Fenrir could be destroyed.

Nearly an hour later, the group assembled in the Observatory and prepared for their departure. Hermione left the safety of Darcy and Jane to wander over to Loki, who was standing staring into the endless void of space. As she approached his back, she saw him tense, her presence known to him. Unfortunately, before she could speak, Thor asked them to prepare for the Bifrost to be opened. Swallowing back the words she wanted to say to Loki, she opted instead for stepping up to his side and holding her hand out in front so he could see it. Glancing down, Loki gave her hand a brief consideration before sighing and interlocking his fingers with hers. She wanted to giggle as they both sighed in relief, their frazzled connection repairing itself. Clearly, the Rime Diamonds disliked when there was a fissure between them. That was certainly something to examine closer later. In the next instant, the Bifrost burst to life, igniting the Observatory with a whirlwind of colors and lightning before sucking them into the void, back to Midgard.

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They arrived in Jane's back yard in an explosion of color, and immediately Loki released Hermione's hand to move towards Thor. Everyone else seemed to jump into action as well. Hermione, despite feeling disappointed in Loki's sudden disinterest in her, began applying wards to make sure they were safe from not only Fenrir, but other threats as well. Once that was situated, she joined everyone inside where Darcy and Jane were busy making tea and coffee. Outside the sun was setting, and Loki was watching the light leave the sky as he stood in front of the kitchen window. Thor and Hogun were removing their armor, for the time being, and strangely; Hermione felt a bit out of place. Surveying the group, she decided to get started on her errands sooner rather than later. When Darcy offered her a cup of tea, she declined.

"Not right now, thank you," she began. "I'm going to go see Harry to discuss getting a meeting set up with the Minister of Magic for the morning." Loki turned from the window to watch her closely, but still said nothing.

"Okay," Jane replied, taking a seat at the small kitchen table. "Are you sure you want to go now? We were going to order pizza or something."

"No, that's alright. You all enjoy your dinner; I'm sure Ginny will have supper on the table by the time I get there. She'll force feed me just like her mom does. I won't go hungry."

"If you're sure…we can always save you some." Darcy walked to the drawer with the take-out menus and began rifling through them.

"Really, you guys, I'll be fine." Turning to Thor, she pointed at his chest. "You make sure to contact S.H.I.E.L.D. and the other people we've talked about. I think it would be best to get everyone here by tomorrow if possible."

"I'm on it," he replied with a nod, already heading for the main room where the landline phone was kept. With that taken care of, Hermione made for the door, but stopped and turned back to see if Loki was still watching. Regrettably, he'd turned his back on her once more, his attention on the last rays of sunlight. Uneasiness prickled her skin, and she wasn't sure if it was from her or him, so she decided to do the only thing she could think of: she used their telepathy.

"Behave yourself while I'm gone, please." There was no response, of course, so she gave Jane, Darcy, and Hogun a quick little wave before opening the door and stepping out into the brisk, March air. Fighting back the frustrated tears that threatened to fall, Hermione took her wand in hand and cleared her mind before apparating to Godric's Hollow. She popped into the Potter's backyard just as the sun dipped below the horizon. Wasting no time, Hermione strode over to the back door and lifted the knocker to sound her arrival. There was a shout, the sound of hurried footsteps, and then the door was opening to reveal the flushed face of Ginny.

"Oh!" The exclamation left the red head in a rush and then suddenly she lunged forward and enveloped Hermione in a bone-crushing hug. "Good Godric, Hermione! It's so good to see you!" Ginny released her relentless grip long enough to give Hermione a once over before taking her hand and all but pulling her inside the cozy kitchen. "I was worried you were never going to come back!"

Once inside, Hermione removed her cloak and hung it on the coat rack. "Don't be silly, Ginny. Of course I was going to come back!" She bit her lip as the conversation with Loki from earlier in the day was pulled to the front of her mind. Shoving that away for now, Hermione smiled as Ginny gestured for her to sit at the recently cleared table.

"Well, we haven't heard from you in a while, so there was no way to know for sure." Going to the refrigerator, she began pulling out containers and dumping an obscene amount of food onto a large plate. Hermione watched in amusement, enjoying the similarities between Ginny and Molly. "I'm assuming the time difference plays a significance in exactly how long you've been gone, but it's seemed like ages since we last talked!" Ginny used her wand to warm the food before levitating the overflowing plate in front of Hermione. Then, she took a seat at the table and waited patiently for her friend to dig in.

Not one to disappoint, Hermione picked up a fork and stabbed a piece of chicken. After a few minutes while Hermione ate and Ginny quietly supervised, there was the sound of footsteps from the main living area. Harry appeared in the doorway of the kitchen, his shirt sporting a large wet spot on the front and his glasses askew. Hermione couldn't contain the laugh that escaped her at the sight. Startled by the sound, Harry's glasses tumbled from where they dangled to clatter on the hardwood floor.

"Hermione?!"

"Honestly, Harry!" Ginny shot up from the table to help her husband find his discarded glasses. "I asked you to make sure they all got in the bath…not take one with them." Hermione giggled and took a sip of the pumpkin juice she'd poured from a pitcher on the table.

"Sorry, Gin. You know Lily—always wanting to pretend she's a pirate…" He trailed off as Ginny replaced his glasses and gave him a peck on the cheek. "Hermione! I can't believe you're really here" He wrapped an arm around Ginny and gave his longtime friend his full attention, ignoring the growing wet spot on his jumper.

"Well, believe it!" She pushed away her nearly empty plate and sat back, relaxing in the company of her old friends. Harry and Ginny joined her at the table, Ginny flicking her wand with a roll of her eyes to dry Harry's drenched shirt.

"When did you get back?" Harry questioned, pouring some pumpkin juice for himself.

"Only about a half an hour ago." Biting her lip, she looked away with uncertainty. "There's been a few developments."

"Does this have to do with Fenrir?"

"Yes," she started, sighing and running both hands over her face. "He managed to get into the palace on Asgard a few days ago. It was during Jane and Thor's engagement feast. Things—things did not end well."

"Who did he kill?" Ginny was leaning forward, concern and fear reflecting out of her brown eyes.

"Odin. Thankfully, he was the only person Fenrir murdered that night. It could have gone a lot worse; there were thousands of civilians there for the feast."

"That's horrible!" Ginny looked startled by this news, but she gripped her wand as if ready for battle. "Where is he now?"

"We're not really sure. We think he's come back here to Earth. That's the impression he gave, anyway." Her brow crinkled as she tried to relay what Fenrir told them that horrific night. "Before he disappeared, he mentioned coming back here to take care of Draco, whatever that means. Is Draco alright? I mean, he hasn't gone missing has he?" When Harry and Ginny shared a nervous look, Hermione sat up a bit straighter in her chair and gestured between the two. "What is it? What's wrong?"

Harry sighed, running a hand through his slightly dampened hair. "Draco hasn't gone missing, if that's what you're thinking, but he does seem a bit off lately."

"What do you mean by off?" Ginny sighed and played with a strand of her red hair.

"Well, when I bumped into Astoria at the Apothecary this weekend she mentioned he was having a hard time sleeping. That's why she was there; she was buying some ingredients for a sleeping potion. She also hinted that they were going through some difficulties. It was as if Draco was being a bit of a short fuse, the way she described it." Ginny let go of her hair and clasped her hands together in her lap.

"To be honest, he's been a bit aggressive at work as well," Harry chimed in. "Ever since we returned from Romania, it's like he's a different person." Looking at Hermione with sad eyes, Harry cleared his throat. "Something changed in him after that mission, but I'm not sure exactly what."

Dropping her face into her hands, Hermione fought back her emotions for yet another time that day. Sighing in frustration, she kept her face hidden as she continued the discussion. "This has to do with me and what he almost confessed that night. He was going to tell me he still loved me. I'm such an idiot for not seeing the signs sooner. Now, he and Astoria are having troubles and for absolutely no reason because I've finally moved on." Shit! She didn't mean to say that last part out loud!

"What do you mean by you've 'finally moved on'?" Ginny questioned, a curious glint in her eyes. Hermione kept her face hidden, a blush rising up her neck and blossoming on her cheeks.

"Hermione, please tell me what I'm thinking is wrong." Harry spoke quietly, a hint of terror in his normally calm voice. Deciding she might as well come clean, Hermione tried to compose herself before removing her hands from her face.

"I suppose it was going to come out sooner or later…"

"What? What are you two going on about?" Ginny was looking back and forth between her husband and best friend. "You've been keeping something from me, Harry Potter!" Taking his wife's hand in his own, Harry smiled down at her.

"I only didn't say anything because there was nothing to tell. Now, it seems, that has changed." Shaking his head, he turned his attention back to Hermione. "So you and Loki, then?"

"What!?" Hermione cringed at Ginny's adverse reaction. "You're joking, right? You're not really seeing that monster?" When Harry tried to place a comforting hand on her shoulder, she shrugged it right off, leaning forward so she could stare wide-eyed across the table at Hermione. "Have you forgotten all those horrible things he did in New York? What about how he treated Thor in New Mexico? I know you said he helped Jane and Thor with that Aether thing, but he's lied to all of them! How do you know he isn't lying to you?"

Tears prickled Hermione's eyes as she took in every word that left Ginny's mouth. She was right, of course. Hermione only had the connection and his word to go off of, and in the past; his word was worth next to nothing. Swallowing back her emotions, Hermione clenched her hands into fists under the table. "Please, don't call him that." The request came out broken, her tears now sliding free from her eyes. She turned her head to avoid the accusatory stare of Ginny, and tried swiping away the angry, hot tears.

"Oh! I'm sorry, Hermione." Ginny stammered getting up to walk around the table where she dropped to her knees in front of the crying woman. "I didn't mean to make you cry. I'm just in shock, I guess. When you and Draco were together, things were different. He'd already made up for the horrible things he'd done in the past. Loki's deeds are just so much worse…he's actually killed people—innocent people!"

"I know, Ginny." She tried to get her crying under control, sniffing and using her sleeve as a tissue. She smiled gratefully up at Harry when he placed a proper tissue in her hand. "I know what he's done…, and I have seen how ruthless he can be when he fights. I've heard him use his words for cruelty." Taking a breath, she blew her nose and crumpled the tissues angrily in the palm of her hand. "I have also experienced the harmful effects of his magic, although he did not mean to use it in such a way." When Harry opened his mouth to question what she meant by that she gave him a pointed look and continued her explanation. "Whether or not our relationship is going to withstand the test of time, is still unknown. Hell, I'm not even sure my feelings for Loki aren't strictly a side-effect of the Rime Diamonds, but until I know for certain, I've chosen to be with him. To be honest…I might be falling in love with him."

That last statement not only shocked Harry and Ginny, but Hermione herself. Until now, she'd only thought of her feelings towards Loki as love in passing. Never before did she even imagine saying it out loud, but once the confession left her lips, she knew it was true. She loved Loki, maybe not absolutely, but there was no denying the way he made her feel. When she was around him, she felt beautiful, strong, brilliant, and above all else, loved. Loki wasn't a monster because he was innocent—he was far from being a hero. He wasn't a monster because she loved him. Hermione could look past all the hurt and horrible things in his past and see the good inside.

Standing abruptly, Hermione nearly toppled over. Thankfully, Harry was still nearby and reached out to steady her. Ginny moved to her feet as well, but with a bit more grace. "Are you alright?" Hermione didn't know how to answer that truthfully. She wanted to disappear, back to the lab, so she could seek out Loki and confess what she was currently thinking. There was no doubt in her mind he was probably freaking the hell out with the wave of emotions she was presently experiencing, but there was nothing to be done about that. Her conversation with Ginny and Harry had been more eye-opening than she thought it would be. Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she nodded.

"I'm fine; I think. I just—I wasn't really expecting to realize how strong my feelings for him had grown." Turning, she grabbed Harry's arm. "I need you to get in touch with Kingsley and plan a meeting for the morning. Invite Draco if you think he needs to be there, but tell Kingsley I'm back and we have a situation on our hands. S.H.I.E.L.D. is going to be involved as well. We're going to need to work together to catch that bastard." Ginny raised her eyebrows at Hermione's vulgar language, a shocked expression overtaking her pretty features.

"I'll floo him immediately…" Harry stammered, appearing just as surprised as Ginny at Hermione's sudden change in demeanor. He watched as she released her grip on his arm and grabbed her cloak from the rack. "Where are you going now?"

"I hurt Loki's feelings somehow, and I'm going to go and figure out what exactly I did wrong." She secured her cloak around her body and opened the kitchen door. "He's here on Earth surrounded by people that neither trust nor consider him anything but a monster." She spat out the last word like it made her sick. "He may have many debts to repay, but he doesn't deserve to feel alone right now." With that said, she nodded to each of her friends before stepping outside, taking another deep breath, and apparating back to the lab.

Harry and Ginny stood in the doorway staring at the spot Hermione just disappeared from. Night had truly fallen around them, and Ginny shivered as a cold breeze picked up, stirring the few piles of snow that remained. She stepped closer to Harry, relieved when he wrapped an arm securely around her. "She'll be okay, won't she, Harry?"

"It's Hermione; she's always okay."

"Not always."

"I think she's better now. At least, she certainly seems like it." Harry dropped a kiss onto his wife's head and snuggled her closer so he could embrace her properly.

"There's another war coming, isn't there?" Afraid to answer that question aloud, Harry simply nodded; his chin brushing against Ginny's scalp.

"I should go and call Kinglsey. Any chance you have your old DA coin lying around? I fear we may need to call in some reinforcements besides the Auror and MLE departments for this one."

With a sigh, Ginny pulled back to reach out and close the open door. She took Harry's hand and led him through the kitchen to the living room that was covered in photos and family keepsakes from over the years. Looking around, she felt a bit anxious that everything was about to change again. She may not know all the facts that surrounded Fenrir and this upcoming battle, but she did know what war could do to a family.

"I'll check in my jewelry box." She squeezed Harry's hand once before letting go to head upstairs to check on her children and find a relic that she hoped she'd never need again.

When she was gone, Harry grabbed a bit of floo powder from the canister on the mantle and dropped to his knees in front of the well-used hearth. Taking a deep breath, he threw the powder down, igniting the green flames. With one last glance over his shoulder at the stairs where Ginny had gone, Harry stuck his head in the flames and hoped Kingsley wouldn't be too mad at being disturbed on a Sunday evening.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

It was fully dark as Hermione stood outside of Jane's house, her arms wrapped around herself to ward off the cold. Lights were shining from the windows, and occasionally a shadow would cross by, presumably to get more pizza or tea. She wasn't sure exactly how long she'd been standing there, afraid to go back inside. When she'd arrived, her first thought was to get her emotions under control before barging in and confronting Loki, but now she felt more afraid than anything. Afraid of what, she wasn't exactly sure. Perhaps, she was afraid that he felt the same. It was far too soon to express her current sentiments as she wasn't sure how realistic they were, but it needed to be discussed at some point. No, Hermione was certain that she was more frightened to learn he didn't feel the same way she did. It was perfectly understandable that he may only regard her as the person he was stuck bonded to for all eternity. Not for the first time, Hermione found herself cursing the damned Rime Diamonds.

Jumping, Hermione gasped as the back door was opened, and Jane walked out with a garbage bag in hand. Hermione watched as Jane noticed her standing there in the darkness, the light from the open kitchen door making it difficult to read her expression.

"Hermione? How long have you been out here? It's freezing!" Jane threw the garbage into the rubbish bin and then dashed over, wrapping Hermione in a warm hug. "Jesus, you're like ice! Let's get inside. Did your meeting with Harry go well?" Letting her friend drag her inside, Hermione figured it was time to face whatever awaited her as far as Loki was concerned. It was silly to hide from reality as she experienced more than she could count over the past ten years or so.

"Harry and Ginny were glad to see me. He's going to talk with the Minister and set up a meeting for the morning." Hermione closed the door behind them and removed her cloak, glad to be in the warmth of the kitchen. It smelled of onions and pepperoni, with a hint of tea leaves. Just as she was about to ask if there was any tea left, Jane thrust a fresh mug into her hand, fixed just the way she liked it. "Thanks." She sipped the warm liquid happily, moving towards the table to sit down. "Was Thor able to get a hold of everyone?"

Jane joined her at the table, her own mug of tea steaming in her hand. "He was. Coulson said he and Daisy can fly out tomorrow—oh; and they now understand why you used your magic on them." She smiled playfully at that, and Hermione laughed, the pressure in her chest dissipating slightly.

"I did what I had to at the time."

"They get that. They really do." Taking a sip of her tea, Jane carried on. "Tony Stark is also on board, and so is Wanda. Apparently, she's quite excited to meet you. They'll be here by tomorrow evening, as well." Nodding to acknowledge this information, Hermione found her mind wandering to the living room where she could hear a heated discussion taking place.

"It's always fun to meet other magical beings," she admitted, staring down into her half-empty mug. The voices were getting louder, and she crinkled her forehead as she peered at the open doorway.

"I should warn you," Jane whispered, leaning forward so her voice wouldn't carry, "Thor asked Tony to bring Bruce Banner to keep an eye on Loki when you couldn't be around."

"What?!" Hermione all but shouted, her attention drawn away from whatever argument was taking place beyond the doorway. "Dr. Bruce Banner…also known as The Hulk is coming here?"

"Shhhhhh!" Jane hissed at her, reaching out to cover her mouth. "Loki doesn't know yet!"

Grimacing, Hermione shook her head to dislodge her friend's hand. "He's going to be livid when he finds out. He hates that man." Despite knowing how Loki would react to find out this development; Hermione couldn't help grinning as she pictured The Hulk slamming Loki back and forth by his foot. Thor shared that story with her one drunken night a few months back. It was no wonder why he requested Dr. Banner to come by for extra supervision. As the shouting escalated in the other room, Hermione gestured towards the doorway with her thumb. "Should we be worried about that?"

"I don't think so. Loki is probably just put out because he has to sleep in a sleeping bag." Jane grinned evilly over the rim of her mug, and Hermione couldn't hold back a snort of laughter.

"You're not serious?"

"Of course I am! Thor and I are in my mother's bedroom, and Darcy has my room. We gave Hogun the couch; that left the sleeping bag for Loki." Before Hermione could suggest Hogun would probably spend more time in Darcy's bed than on the couch, Loki burst into the kitchen, with Thor, Hogun, and Darcy hot on his heels. He looked furious, his hair flying about his shoulders as he took in the two grinning ladies at the table. His anger sizzled through the connection, making Hermione's own magic tingle at her fingertips.

"I cannot stay here," Loki seethed, pointing at the floor. "They want me to sleep in some sort of cocoon on the carpet."

She tried to hold in her laughter; she really did, but the affronted look on Loki's face was too priceless. With one ill-timed glance at Darcy who was filming the scene on her phone, Hermione was sent into peals of laughter. The other's joined in, and soon Loki was clenching his fists and shaking his head back and forth at the lot of them. After about three full minutes of uncontrollable laughter, they were all able to get themselves under some sort of control, although Thor was still chuckling quietly at his spoiled brother. Wiping the remainder of her mirth from the corner of her eyes, Hermione crossed her arms and stared up at the petulant god.

"It really wouldn't hurt you to spend a few nights in a sleeping bag, Loki." When he opened his mouth to argue, she held up her hand and raised her eyebrows. He snapped his mouth closed and narrowed his eyes at her, but remained silent. "However, since Ron moved out of my flat, there is an extra bed there you may use for the time being. I can set up wards around my apartment not unlike the ones I used for you in Asgard."

Unclenching his fists, Loki chewed the inside of his cheek while contemplating the offer. "That sounds suitable," he admitted after a short period of deliberation. "When can we leave? I've had more than my fill of these companions for the evening."

"Aw, now you're just trying to hurt our feelings," Thor jested, slinging an arm around Loki's shoulders, which was shrugged off nearly as soon as it touched the Jotun. With a more serious tone, he addressed Hermione. "Are you certain you do not mind housing Loki? Will you be alright alone with him there?"

Standing, Hermione ignored the imploring stare from Loki as she discarded her now empty mug in the sink before heading towards the door. "I can assure you; Loki will be more than safe at my flat. If I need anything, I'll call for help." She put her cloak back on yet again that evening and opened the door. "I'll have to bring him back in the morning before my meeting with the Minister of Magic, though."

"That's no problem," Jane said through a grin, "We'll be awake. We're expecting company." Knowing exactly who that company was allowed Hermione to share a private smile before turning her attentions back to Loki, who was still standing awkwardly a few steps away from the others. Out of the corner of her eye, she watched as Darcy and Hogun disappeared into the living room.

"Are you coming," she asked Loki, quietly, feeling a bit shaken when his green eyes met hers with scorching intensity. Clearly, he was more upset by his current predicament than she originally presumed. He nodded and led the way out the door. With one last wave to her friends, she stepped out into the cold night, pulling the door shut behind her until she heard the beep of the lock securing. Loki was standing in the middle of the yard, staring up at the sky, when she joined him at his side. They said nothing, both gazing at the endless night, little puffs of condensation coming from their mouths to reveal how truly cold it was. When the silence became almost too loud to endure, Hermione tilted her head to stare at the profile of his face instead.

He looked breathtaking in the light from the half-full moon. His eyes glittered, reflecting the stars above, and his skin seemed almost blue. Blinking, Hermione realized his true skin color was most likely cerulean, but had yet to see it that way. Nibbling on her lip, she wondered if he would ever allow her to see him that way—in his true Jotun form. Already feeling the chill of late winter sinking into her skin, she held out her arm. She was almost afraid to break the silence, but it wasn't safe for them to remain out in the open like they were.

"Take my arm."

Glancing down at her, Loki slipped his arm within hers and waited as she removed her wand from the pocket of her cloak. He watched as she gripped the end of the wooden instrument and gently tugged him closer so that their sides were touching. There was something different about her this evening that he couldn't quite put a finger on, but before he could examine her face further, they were swirling through a portal of magic. Loki's feet slammed into the floor of her flat a second later, and he was glad he remained standing this time. Despite the churning of his stomach, he also managed to refrain from vomiting after her special travel spell.

Hermione released her hold on Loki as soon as they arrived and began applying wards to the walls of her flat. It was obvious Ron hadn't visited in a while as the small space was in dire need of a dusting, not to mention the wards were waning. As she worked, she watched Loki out of the corner of her eye. After getting his bearings back, he began to look around, investigating his surroundings. Leaving him momentarily, she walked down the hall and opened Ron's old door. The bed was made up nicely with clean sheets so at least that was taken care of. While she would much rather share her bed with Loki, she wouldn't be surprised if he preferred to sleep alone with the mood he was in. After adding the wards she used on his room back in Asgard to this one, she tried to calm to frantic beating of her heart and headed for her own room.

Looking around, she wasn't shocked to find it exactly as she left it all those weeks ago. Glancing over her shoulder to make sure Loki was still in the living room, Hermione decided a change in clothes was in order. She quickly discarded her cloak and boots followed by her jeans, turtleneck sweater, and bra. Going to her dresser, she opened the middle drawer and extracted an old pair of yoga pants and a gray tank top. After getting dressed, she grabbed her wand where she'd set it on the bed, and walked back to the living room to find Loki standing in roughly the same spot she'd left him. He was examining the photos on the wall of her, her friends, and family from over the years. The photos were currently charmed not to move, but with a simple wave of her wand that was reversed. Loki's brow furrowed as the pictures jumped to life, but he did not turn to look at Hermione.

"That's from Ginny and Harry's wedding," Hermione explained stepping up beside him to look at the happy memory. "It was right after she smashed cake in his face. We all jumped in for a photo." She smiled sadly as she watched Ginny lick icing off Harry's face while Ron, George, Neville, and herself waved out at them. Her arm was intertwined with Ron's as they were still a couple back then. Sighing, Hermione set her wand on the coffee table nearby before crossing her arms. "You know; you can move around a bit more. I've put the wards around the flat so you can't go anywhere."

"I'm aware."

Worrying her lip in frustration, she stepped away from him and walked to her favorite bookshelf where she kept a few classics. She perused the novels in search of something to pass the time before going to bed. It was so irritating not knowing how to deal with Loki's mood swings, but she suspected that was a part of being in a relationship with someone. Where had the easy going, lovemaking god from this morning gone? In his place was this sullen, ill-tempered Frost Giant. Deciding she wasn't actually in the mood to read for once, she turned away from the bookshelf and raked her hands through her curls, practically growling when they got tangled in a few knots. Enough was enough—she needed answers.

"I wish you'd just tell me what I did wrong, Loki!" She hadn't meant to scream, but her voice echoed throughout the apartment, causing her to flinch. Once that admission was set free, it was like a damn broke. She couldn't stop herself. As Loki's head snapped to face her finally, she let loose everything that she was currently feeling. "You haven't spoken to me since lunch, and I can't for the life of me figure it out. You won't respond to my thoughts, and you're speaking to me like I'm some sort of stranger! I thought we agreed not to shut each other out anymore. Isn't that what we talked about last night? Do I mean so little to you that you can just fuck me and push me aside? If that's the case, then tell me now so I can get used to the anguish we're going to be inflicted with!" She grappled with the chain around her neck, pulling the ring out so he could see it. When she made to remove the annoying relic, she heard Loki sigh, exasperatedly.

"What are you doing, Hermione?"

"Trying to take this insipid thing off." She grumbled, struggling with the clasp. After how she removed it last time, she didn't want to repeat that. Ripping it off hurt!

"You don't have to do that." Her glare shot to his face, but the soft look he was giving her was enough to cease her movements. Dropping the ring, she ignored the way it bounced against her chest as her hands fell away. "Are you quite finished with your tantrum, Hermione?" She sniffed by way of answer, so he continued. "You shouldn't have to sacrifice your future so that others will believe in me." Loki watched as realization dawned in Hermione's chocolate eyes, her mouth dropping open.

"You're mad because I put my faith in you?"

"I'm not someone people typically trust, Hermione. In fact, I live up to my title more than I care to admit." Loki was sure he looked as upset as he felt by confessing that aloud. "If something were to happen—if I were to stray from the path so to speak—you would end up spending your days in that horrid prison you've talked about. I can't bear to imagine you ending up in a place like that."

"Then, don't do anything foolish." Hermione frowned when he snorted at her remark.

"Have you met me? That's much easier said than done." Turning his face away, Loki glared at the wall full of happy photographs, all smiling and waving at him. "I am, and always will be, a—a monster." The sudden rush of anger that filled his body caused him to whip his head around to gape at the witch across the room. Hermione was clenching her fists and visibly shaking, her eyes full of unshed tears.

"Stop saying that!" She yelled, practically stamping her foot. "I am sick and tired of people calling you that, let alone hearing it come from your own mouth! How would you feel if I called myself a Mudblood, hmm?" She pointed a finger at him, her eyes softening ever so slightly. "You are not a monster, do you hear me? You are not a monster. I lo—I don't believe it for one second." Chest heaving, Hermione panicked, hoping Loki didn't catch what she almost admitted to him. In an attempt to keep it that way, she continued her rant. "People can change. Draco did, as well as a number of other people I know who used to be horrible at one point or another. I can help you, don't you understand?" Worn out, Hermione stood by the bookshelf, her heart racing and her eyes burning with unshed tears.

Loki watched her intensely, a strong feeling overcoming him as she continued to berate him for his description of himself. Massaging his left hand, he tried to see her side of things. He'd grown up hearing what horrid monsters Frost Giants were. When he discovered that he was one of these monsters, he took the description to heart, doing everything in his power to show his supposed family exactly how horrible of a monster he could truly be. Could it really be so simple to change, like she said? With her help, would he be able to change from a monster into someone benevolent like Thor, or Hermione? It was certainly something to contemplate. As she continued to huff exasperatedly across the room, Loki repeated the words she'd yelled at him in his head. How would you feel if I called myself a Mudblood? Well, he most certainly would not approve of that, especially now that he knew what an insult it was.

With a sudden clarity, Loki realized what she meant by that. Just because she was a Muggleborn, that did not mean she was a Mudblood. So, because he was a Frost Giant, that did not mean he was a monster. Hope and affection swelled inside of him as he deciphered her meaning. His eyes shot back to hers, a glimmer of hope shining out from their chocolate depths. He ran a shaky hand through his dark hair, trying to calm his suddenly erratic breathing. That was when another sentence repeated itself in his head. I lo—I don't believe it for one second. Was Hermione about to admit she loved him? It wasn't possible. There was no way she'd actually fallen for him in that way. Surely it was just a side effect of the Rime Diamonds? As he took in her tearful expression and her heaving chest, he had to concede that there was a new emotion radiating from her side of the connection—one he was unfamiliar with. Unless he remembered Frigga and how she cared for him when no one else did.

Loki reached out and grabbed the back of the chair nearest him as he realized Hermione's love for him was real. She was watching him curiously now, and he realized he'd not spoken in some time. Swallowing, he released his hold on the chair and took a deliberate step forward. Her eyes widened in fear, and he felt a tingle of arousal shoot down his spine. He'd never had someone love him like this before, and if he were honest with himself, which he rarely was, he had to admit that he loved her too. As he took yet another step closer to her, he knew he had to say something before she started into another verbal tirade.

"What is your safe word?"

Her cheeks flushed pink, and her pupils dilated as recognition dawned on her face. "My safe word? Why do you want to know that?"

"Because I'm about to fuck you so thoroughly that you may not be able to walk tomorrow, and I need to know your safe word, in case I get too rough with you."

"Oh." Her mouth popped open in the most delightful way, making Loki imagine shoving his cock into it repeatedly.

"Yes, now tell me, my pet, what-is-your-safe-word." Enunciating each word separately, Loki quirked an eyebrow as he stalked ever closer to his prey.

"Troll." That stopped him right in his tracks. What in the…? As he watched her smirk saucily back at him, he knew he was going to punish her most deliciously for her insolence. There would be time to question the origin of her safe word later. Now, though, Loki could barely contain his excitement as he resumed his slow pace towards the woman he'd somehow managed to fall in love with. He watched as she quirked an eyebrow at him, a question whispering from her mouth, "Can you remember that?"

With a snarl, Loki surged forward and grabbed her at the waist before slamming her into the bookshelf, his cock grinding deliciously into the junction of her hips. She let out a soft cry of pain, but it was quickly followed by a moan of pleasure as she wrapped her legs around his middle, pulling him closer. Loki dug his fingers into her curvy waist, eliciting yet another whimper that sent desire pooling in his lower abdomen. Both their chests were heaving as their lust took over, and the way Hermione's breasts felt through the thin material of her shirt was enough to drive him near madness. Watching her eyes darken with desire as he ground his hips into hers once more, Loki moved his face until their lips were mere breaths apart.

"I'm going to punish that cheeky mouth of yours, my pet. Now, be a good little girl and use your magic to bind your wrists above your head."

"Yes, master." Smirking, Hermione twirled her fingers, magical bindings coming out to secure her wrists to the bookshelf above.

Oh, Loki was most definitely in love with this witch. If only he could figure out the right time and way to proclaim his sentiments. For now, there was exquisite sex to be had. Tonight, at least, he would show her how he felt by ravishing her until she couldn't remember her name. If someone as pure and gentle as Hermione could love someone as dark and twisted as him, then maybe, just maybe, he wasn't such a monster after all.

"Very good. Now, let us begin."

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End Notes: Woo! Is it hot in here, or is that just me? No, you too? Okay, good! I'm not alone! Well, there you have it—Hermione and Loki FINALLY realized their love for one another! How are you all feeling about their relationship so far? How about Darcy and Hogun? Do you see things working out for them, or no? Anyone else looking forward to Loki and Banner being reunited? Does anyone know the significance of Hermione's Safe Word? Do you think she'll ever have to use it? Anyways, please leave a review if you enjoyed the chapter! I absolutely love feedback! I'm itching to put my fingers to the keyboard and start the next chapter already! Until next time!
xxDustNight