Chapter 4: Bonds of Blood

Asgard Training Grounds

Noon

It had been close to a week since Amara's arrival in Asgard. All had gone well so far, to the point that Magni had largely lost all reservations about her stay. In that time the two had become much more comfortable around each other. It was a nice feeling for the God of Strength, having more than one sibling around to connect with.

On this day, he took a moment to pay a visit to Asgard's training grounds, with the intention of seeing one person in particular. With Mjolnir on his hip, he greeted Asgardians along the way until he heard the familiar clashing of swords and shields. Turning a corner, he was greeted by the sight of two women sparring in the center of the training grounds, while a few young girls, no older than 10 watched on the sidelines Hallbera, a woman of fierce strength and beauty with her golden blonde hair tied in a ponytail, and Liv, a woman of a darker skin tone with black hair flowing freely in the cool breeze. They were the last two living Valkyries, the others having died long ago in the War of the Realms.

Hallbera let out a joyful laugh as she detected Liv's attacks with her shield.

"Come now sister, you must try harder than that!" Hallbera taunted.

Liv grunted in annoyance. "Don't call me sister. We're not related."

She lunged forward, her sword aimed at Hallbera's torso. Hallbera sidestepped easily, bringing the hilt of her sword down on Liv's back.

"You are far too tense, Liv. Loosen up!"

Liv straightened up with a scowl, taking a long swig from a flask at her hip. "Yeah yeah, you're little miss perfect as always."

Hallbera smiled, about to respond when she caught sight of Magni entering the training grounds. Her face lit up at the sight of the Asgardian king, as did the faces of the young girls.

"My king, what an unexpected pleasure," Hallbera greeted warmly, giving a slight bow.

Magni returned her smile. "Lady Hallbera. I hope I am not interrupting your training."

"Not all," Hallbera said, turning to Liv who was still drinking from her flask. "I think that's enough for today, sister."

Once Liv was done, she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "I told you to stop–" she caught herself once she noticed Magni's presence, and couldn't help but to roll her eyes. "Oh I see, drop everything for the royal boyfriend. Whatever."

As Liv stalked off without another word, the young girls followed after her at Hallbera's insistent gesture. Hallbera sighed but quickly refocused her attention on Magni. "That woman is an enigma. She comes here, drinks, trains then disappears."

Magni gave a soft chuckle, nodding. "Lady Liv is unique to be sure. She has the spirit akin to some Midgardians I've come across."

"I'm not sure I want to visit Midgard, then," she replied in a jovial tone. "Shall we go somewhere to talk?"

Magni nodded, gesturing for her to lead the way. As they walked side by side, Hallbera looped her arm through Magni's.

"It has been too long since I have seen you, my king. You are often so preoccupied," she said, a note of gentle reproach in her voice.

"My apologies, Hallbera. Ruling a kingdom can be…demanding," Magni replied ruefully. "But know that you are often in my thoughts."

Hallbera gave his arm a playful squeeze. "Smooth words as always. Now tell me, what trouble brings Asgard's mighty king to my training grounds today?"

"Aside from seeing you, I wished to hear of your exploits training the next generation of Valkyrie warriors. I understand they are still children, but I would hope they are grasping the basics so far."

Hallbera smiled. "They progress well under the guidance of Liv and myself, though I would not necessarily call Liv's form of training guidance per se. Some show exceptional promise, much as I did once long ago." A shadow crossed her face at the memory of her slain Valkyrie sisters.

Noticing her change in mood, Magni removed his arm from hers and placed a hand on her shoulder. "You honor their legacy by passing on their teachings."

Hallbera nodded, a bittersweet smile touching her lips. "Indeed." She took a deep breath before continuing cheerfully. "But come, tell me of the happenings in your world. Any news?"

Magni hesitated. "There is...one development. I have recently discovered I have a younger half-sister, Amara."

Hallbera's eyes widened in surprise. "A sister? A daughter of Thor?"

Magni shook his head. "Nay, she is the daughter of my mother, the Enchantress."

"The Enchantress?" Hallbera repeated in dismay. "Then she is a sorceress as well?"

"Yes, though she seems harmless and has a genuine desire to be with her family."

Hallbera touched his arm gently. "I hope for your sake, she is true of heart. Be cautious Magni, magic wielders can be deceitful."

"Your concern is noted," Magni nodded solemnly. "I-"

Before he could continue, he was interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps. A royal messenger hurried up to thyme, slightly out of breath.

"My king, urgent news," he began. "We have received a missive from King Kol of Nornheim."

Magni's expression changed swiftly to that of guarded intrigue. "What word from Nornheim?"

"War, my king. He claims to have found Asgardian spies within their borders and demands an immediate parley under threat of retaliation."

Magni's expression grew grave. He clasped Hallbera's hand tightly.

"It seems this matter requires my full attention. We shall speak again soon."

Hallbera nodded in understanding. "May the fates protect you, Magni."

With a final squeeze of her hand, Magni hurried off after the messenger, his thoughts already turning to the brewing conflict.

Amara sat alone in the vast royal library, engrossed in a heavy tome detailing the extensive history of Asgard. Her eyes scanned over descriptions of glorious battles, cunning deceptions, and terrible bloodshed. As she turned a page, an illustration jumped out at her—the gruesome image of a young man torn limb from limb by a snarling wolf.

The caption below read "Narfi, son of Loki and Sigyn, ripped apart by his brother Vali who was transformed into a wolf by Odin as a punishment for Loki's transgressions." Amara's face paled at the graphic scene, and only worsened at the next image of Loki binded by his son's entrails.

Just then, she heard footsteps approaching down the aisle.

"Ah, I thought I might find you here," Modi said as he came upon Amara hunched over the macabre book.

Amara quickly closed it and forced a smile. "Yes, I was just doing some light reading about our…colorful history."

Modi glanced at the discarded book's cover, and raised an eyebrow. "That particular tale is far from light." He took a seat in a chair near Amara's and leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees. "I take it you have learned of my grandfather's ruthlessness when delivering so-called justice."

Amara nodded hesitantly. "It seems excessive, turning one child into a beast to murder his own brother over the father's wrongdoings."

Modi sighed, running a hand through his auburn hair. "Odin's punishments were indeed severe. As a child, I struggled to reconcile such cruelty with the heroic tales I heard. But war makes monsters of even great men."

"And what do you think now?" Amara asked gently, studying his pensive face.

"I think…" Modi began slowly. "That peace requires difficult choices at times. Leaders must harden their hearts for the greater good, but unchecked power corrupts, as my uncle Loki demonstrated."

Amara bit her lip thoughtfully as she gazed at Modi. His internal struggle was evident—wanting to defend his grandfather's legacy, yet questioning the violence that defined it. She reached out and laid a hand over his.

"You have a wise and thoughtful spirit, Modi. The people are fortunate to have you helping guide the realm."

Modi tensed briefly at her sudden touch, but did not withdraw his hand.

"You flatter me, Amara," he said, shifting in mild discomfort.

Amara gave Modi's hand a gentle squeeze before retracting her own.

"Does talk of the past make you uneasy? We could discuss more pleasant matters?" she suggested, scooting her chair closer.

Modi cleared his throat, shifting his chair back slightly as Amara leaned towards him.

"I suppose it does little good to dwell on the darker moments of history," he said carefully. "Though they must not be forgotten, lest we repeat past mistakes."

Amara nodded, folding her hands in her lap. "Very true. Now tell me of happier times. What of your boyhood with Magni?"

A small smile crossed Modi's face at the memories. "We were quite the troublemakers in our youth. Sneaking off from lessons to race horses through the countryside, competing in Tests of Strength though we were far too young. My mother despaired at taming us. Though Magni wasn't hers, she treated him as her own, and thus we were equals."

"That sounds wonderful," Amara said wistfully. "To have a brother to share such adventures with."

Before Modi could respond, heavy footsteps echoed down the aisle. Magni appeared, his bearded face set in a grim expression.

"Brother, I have grave tidings from-" Magni halted as he noticed how close Modi and Amara sat.

Modi hastily scooted his chair several feet away from Amara, clearing his throat in embarrassment.

Magni's eyes narrowed slightly but he continued. "King Kol of Nornheim accuses Asgard of sending spies. I ride at once to parley before open war breaks out."

"Nornheim?" Amara gasped. "I have longed to visit the province and see its magic firsthand. Might I join you brother?"

Magni hesitated. "This is a serious matter between kings, not a pleasure trip."

Clasping her hands beseechingly, Amara pressed on. "Please Magni, allow me to come. My skills could aid you, and help avoid further conflict in such a place rooted in magic."

After a long moment, Magni relented with a sigh. "Very well. Make ready, we leave swiftly. First we will head to Glitnir."

With an excited squeal, Amara hurried off to prepare. Magni watched her departure broodingly before turning back to Modi with a raised eyebrow.

"What do you think?" he asked.

Modi stood to his feet and placed his hands behind his back as he pondered his words.

"It goes without saying, but do keep her within your eyesight. I imagine she would be like a Frost Giant in a snowstorm," Modi said with a hint of dry humor.

Magni thought about it for a moment. A small smile crossed his face as he nodded at his brother's advice.

"Frost Giant in a snowstorm…funny."

Magni and Amara departed the palace, making their way through the streets of Asgard to the grand hall of Glitnir. As they walked, Amara gazed in wonder at the soaring spires and bustling city life.

"This Glitnir we journey to—what is it?" she asked.

"It is the dwelling of my cousin Rayner, son of Forseti. He serves as the judge of Asgard, taking his father's place after Ragnarok," Magni explained. "Rayner's aid will be invaluable in this delicate matter."

Soon they arrived at the imposing doors of Glitnir, which shimmered as brightly as the rest of the building with its pillars of gold and walls of silver. It was an amazing sight for Amara. Though many of Asgard's buildings were bright and grand, none radiated pure light and divinity like Glitnir.

Magni gave a mighty knock to the doors, and after a moment passed by, the doors slowly creaked open. A tall, slender man with short golden hair stood on the other side to greet them.

"Cousin! This is an unexpected surprise," Rayner said warmly, embracing Magni. After releasing the hug, his eyes shifted to Amara with intrigue. "And who…might you be?"

"This is Amara, my newly discovered sister and daughter of the Enchantress," Magni replied, gesturing to her. "Now, we have need of your-"

"The Enchantress?" Rayner repeated in surprise, cutting Magni off. "Then we are kin! My mother was Lorelei, Amora's sister."

A bright smile formed on Amara's face, replacing the look of skepticism that was previously on it just moments prior. "Truly? My mother never mentioned Aunt Lorelei had children."

"Oh I have many tales to tell you," Rayner said with enthusiasm. "Like how my father won my mother's heart after she attempted to-"

Magni cleared his throat. "Cousin, we have more pressing matters. King Kol of Nornheim threatens war. Will you join us to parley before it escalates further?"

Rayner's expression grew more serious at hearing the weight of Magni's visit. "Of course. Such is my specialty after all. Give me but a moment to gather my things."

Before long, the three were on horseback, journeying to the Asgardian province of Nornheim. The further they strayed from the glamorous environment of the city of Asgard, the darker and rougher the terrain became. As they continued on, Rayner regaled Amara with many stories, including the tale of how his parents fell in love.

"My mother was quite the troublemaker in her youth," Rayner began. "Much like her sister, she used her beauty and magic to manipulate men as she pleased. She even manipulated Thor, as a part of an alliance with Loki."

The mention of his father caused Magni to raise an eyebrow. He himself hadn't heard the story before, so he would casually pay attention along the way, while his focus remained primarily on the road ahead.

"Eventually, as Asgard's chief judge, Lorelei was sent to my father so that he could pass judgment on her for her misdeeds," Rayner continued. "Forseti had intended a fair and just punishment for her crimes, but upon sensing the potential for good beneath her vain exterior, he instead sentenced Lorelei to work alongside him resolving disputes throughout the realms."

Amara listened with rapt attention as Rayner recounted the story, her eyes never leaving him.

"She tried to use her usual tricks to seduce and hypnotize him into releasing her, but as the God of Justice and Reconciliation, my father had an innate charisma that was almost hypnotizing in itself, making him resistant to manipulation. Instead, Lorelei found herself falling for him. They worked side by side, with her own persuasive talents proving quite useful. Over time, she genuinely reformed under my father's guidance," Rayner said with a smile. "And so enemies became lovers, a sorceress found purpose, and my father gained a powerful ally in spreading justice and resolution."

Amara clapped delightedly. "What a marvelous tale! I never knew my aunt found such happiness."

Eventually, the landscape bore signs of their arrival in Nornheim. Surrounding them were lush forests, craggy mountains, and enormous trees that seemingly stretched for eternity. Magni watched as his sister's eyes lit up with joy and wonder at the land that was so far removed from Asgard in more ways than one. Undoubtedly, she felt the strong pull of innate magic.

"Come, King Kol awaits," Magni said gruffly, spurring his horse onward. Amara and Rayner shared an amused look before following close behind.

Upon reaching the grand castle of Nornkeep, the seat of power in Nornheim, the three Asgardians dismounted their horses and made their way up to the palace gate. The guards eyed them warily, shared a glance, but ultimately allowed them through.

Once they were inside, and entered the opulent throne room, King Kol waited on his carved wooden throne, draped in furs and glittering gold jewelry. His curly black hair and neatly trimmed mustache gave him an air of roguish charm, but his purple eyes were cold.

"Welcome to Nornkeep, cousin Magni," he drawled. "I'm so pleased you could make it."

Amara furrowed her eyebrows and leaned over to whisper to Rayner. "Cousin?"

"Ah, King Kol is the son of Balder and the Norn Queen Karnilla. Very complicated relationship the two of them had," Rayner whispered back.

Amara nodded, as she recalled vague stories of Karnilla's love for Balder, not terribly different from the relationship her mother had with Thor. "Interesting…that would make him your…uncle then, right?"

"Correct," Rayner said with a slight nod. "The branches of the royal family tree are intricate, to say the least."

Magni on the other hand, kept his focus razor sharp on Kol as they approached the wooden throne. Stopping about 15 feet away, Magni crossed his hands over each other, a frown evident on his face.

"I wish there was time to exchange pleasantries between family, but let us discuss these accusations plainly, Kol. I sent no spies to Nornheim, nor do I wish to start a war."

Kol snapped his fingers and two brutish guards dragged out two bedraggled Asgardian men in chains. They were deposited roughly on the ground before the throne.

"Is that so?" Kol asked silkily. "Why don't you tell King Magni here exactly what you told me."

One man lifted his head defiantly. "We serve the one true king! Asgard will reclaim these lands so that it may be whole again!"

The other man spat at Kol's feet. "Too long have you Norns hid away, hoarding your magics! It's time Nornheim rejoined the greater realm under Magni's rule."

Magni's face flushed with anger. His hand quickly went to Mjolnir on his hip, electricity crackling within the hammer. "I do not claim these traitorous dogs or condone their words!"

Kol merely smiled, steepling his fingers in contemplation. "Strong words, Magni…but until their mission is explained, how can I see this as anything but an act of aggression? Perhaps you thought annexing Nornheim would win you easy glory."

"I seek no such thing," Magni growled through gritted teeth.

Rayner stepped forward, raising his hands diplomatically. "Come now, we are all literally family here. Surely this is a misunderstanding easily resolved by level heads."

Kol leaned forward on his throne, his purple eyes flashing. "I wish to avoid open war as much as you do, cousin, but you heard their declaration. Did you order this incursion?"

Magni's grip tightened on Mjolnir as he met Kol's stare. "I swear on my honor and the throne of Asgard, I gave no such command."

Rayner looked between the two kings. "If I may suggest…perhaps these men acted of their own volition. Fanatics hoping to curry favor rather than following orders."

Kol's face showed consideration, but it was soon replaced by skepticism as he leaned back. "That may be true, but how can I know for certain?" He eyes the chained prisoners with disdain. "My magics, as powerful and versatile as they are, have limits. Even I cannot see into the minds of others. No Norn sorcerer can."

At this, Rayner glanced back at Amara thoughtfully. "What of you, cousin? Amora was skilled in manipulating minds. Can you glean the truth from these men?"

Amara hesitated, shrinking slightly under the sudden attention. "I…have some small skill, but nothing like my mother's capabilities."

"Please Amara, try if you are able," Magni implored. "It may preserve peace."

With an uncertain nod, Amara stepped forward and placed a hand on each prisoner's forehead in turn. Though they struggled against her initially, they soon became rigid as she delved into their thoughts, her eyes glowing an emerald green. After a moment, she stepped back and blinked to steady herself.

"They are indeed…fanatics. I saw no memory of my brother ordering them. They came of their own free will, hoping to impress you," she reported to Magni.

Magni's hulking shoulders slumped in relief, while Kol continued to watch Amara closely.

"Well done, cousin," Rayner smiled. He gestured to Magni. "Perhaps also look into my cousin's mind, to erase any lingering doubts?"

Amara appeared apprehensive, but after Magni gave a nod in assent, she approached him. Repeating the process, she stood up onto the tips of her toes to reach a hand up to Magni's head. Once it was over, she took a step back and gave a simple nod.

"Aside from some…colorful words he has for these two, they do not exist in his mind past this moment," Amara affirmed, with a small smile.

Kol reached a hand up to tug at his mustache in thought. Finally, he gave a curt nod.

"It seems there is no plot after all. You have my apologies for accusing you falsely, Magni."

"And you have mine for this breach of trust," Magni replied solemnly. "Rest assured these men will face Asgardian justice."

Rayner clapped his hands together. "Excellent! Progress made and family bonds strengthened. Might I suggest we adjourn for a feast and further reconciliation?"

Kol's eyes narrowed on his nephew for a moment, before melting away into a warm glint. He let out a soft chuckle and stood from his throne, holding his hands together.

"Well Rayner, we know it is incredibly difficult not to agree with you. Besides…" his eyes shifted over to Magni. "I am confident the walking mountain in our presence would love nothing more than to eat, especially after the journey here."

Magni's hand finally fell from Mjolnir's handle, and instead went straight to his stomach.

"Hmm…now that you mention it-"

The grand dining hall of Nornkeep was alive with activity as servants hurried to and fro, laying out platters overflowing with sumptuous foods and setting places at the long table for the visiting Asgardian nobles. Massive hearths along the walls bathed the room in a warm, flickering glow. At the head of the table, King Kol sat upon an ornately carved chair inlaid with gold filigree. To his right sat Magni, looking around warily as if still expecting some deception. Across from Magni was Rayner, who smiled and chatted amiably with the Norns seated near him.

Once all were settled, Kol raised his jeweled goblet. "Let it be known that peace has been restored between Asgard and Nornheim. To family!"

"To family!" the others echoed, raising their drinks in kind before sampling the fine spirits that flowed freely.

Servants emerged bearing heaping trays—roasted meats dripping with sauce, bowls of exotic fruits and vegetables from the surrounding lands, loaves of bread still steaming. Amara found herself seated beside Rayner, who enthusiastically pointed out local delicacies for her to try. She sampled baked fish smoked with fragrant wood of the Norns forests, tart berries that popped on the tongue, and cakes made with honey gathered from massive hives nurtured by Norn magic.

As the feast progressed, light music filled the hall provided by a troupe of minstrels, the flowing tunes a counterpoint to the lively conversations. Despite the earlier tension, the mood grew increasingly relaxed. Even Magni seemed less brooding after sampling the strong Norn spirits. After some time, the grand doors opened again and in walked an elegant woman with jet black hair and piercing green eyes. Kol half-stood and beckoned her over.

"Ah, Amara, allow me to present my wife, Tove Lokidottir. My dear, this is Amara, the newly discovered sister of the God of Strength himself."

Tove inclined her head politely as she took her seat beside Kol. "Welcome to Nornheim, Lady Amara."

"The pleasure is mine," Amara replied. She found herself intrigued by this mysterious woman, daughter of Loki. Leaning in, she asked delicately, "If I may, how fares life married to the king?"

Kol and Tove exchanged an amused look. Kol waved his hand airily. "Oh pay no mind to formalities. Tove is my wife in name only, to satisfy my dear late mother. We are the best of friends, nothing more."

Tove gave a graceful nod of confirmation. "My heart resides elsewhere. But I am happy to lend legitimacy to Kol's rule."

"Besides, I prefer the company of men," Kol grinned roguishly. "And even though she can transform into one…Tove is far too much like a sibling to me."

Amara laughed in surprise. "Tell me Tove, did you inherit your father's…talents, shall we say?"

"For mischief, you mean?" Tove smiled wryly. "I take more after my mother in temperament. Though I confess in my youth I had a rebellious streak. But Kol's antics were always far worse."

Kol held up his hands innocently. "You wound me, Tove! I was hardly that terrible."

Their playful banter continued as the feast wore on. Over the course of it, Amara found herself warming to this unconventional duo and the realm of Nornheim itself. As the feast wore on, conversation continued to stir between the Asgardians and Norns. Magni, though initially wary, soon had his guard softened by the fine spirits and laid back atmosphere.

"I maintain my opinion that Asgard seems like a nightmare to govern," Kol commented as he raised a cup to his lips. "Nornheim is small, concise. Every so often I look out in the distance from the top of Nornkeep and wonder…how do you do it?"

Magni smiled and shook his head. "Though I may be King, my brother Modi plays an equal part in maintaining peace and order in Asgard."

"Ah yes, the renowned God of Battle," Kol said as he placed his cup down. "I noticed his absence."

"Modi remains in Asgard overseeing defenses," Magni explained. "He very rarely leaves unless there is a fight to be had."

Amara glanced curiously at Kol further down the table. The topic of Modi brought a question to the front of her mind that she was eager to ask, especially given the intricate nature of the Asgardian and Norn family tree.

"My king, forgive my boldness, but do you have any siblings? Other than Forseti, of course."

At this, Kol and Rayner exchanged a subtle but loaded glance. Kol took a slow sip of wine before replying. "I have another brother, yes. Unfortunately we have…long been estranged."

Sensing the delicate subject, Amara quickly backtracked. "My apologies, I did not mean to dredge up painful memories."

"It is nothing," Kol said breezily with a wave of his hand, though his eyes seemed stormy. "The past is the past."

Tove reached over and laid a sympathetic hand on Amara's arm. "Worry not, you meant no harm. I too once took sibling bonds for granted, to my regret." She smiled sadly. "Treasure your brother, as I wish I had treasured mine."

Amara nodded, her mind immediately sending her back to the story she had read earlier in the library. The illustration of Vali and Narfi, she could only imagine what wound that was for Tove.

After the lively feast, Magni sought out his sister Amara as they prepared to depart Nornkeep and return to Asgard. He found her standing alone on a balcony overlooking the moonlit Norn forests, lost in thought. Magni cleared his throat softly so as not to startle her as he approached.

"The hour grows late. We leave at first light," he rumbled.

Amara turned, her blonde hair shining in the moonglow. "I cannot believe this is my first time seeing Nornheim. It is more stunning than I imagined, and the magic…I can feel it calling to me in every direction."

Magni stepped up beside her at the railing, gaze sweeping the vista of dark, jagged peaks and dense ancient woods. "Truly, a unique realm within a realm. But come the morn, home calls to us, and the traitors will see justice." He shifted to face Amara directly. "Before we depart, I wish to say…you proved yourself well today. Your skills preserved the fragile peace between Asgard and Nornheim."

Amara's eyes widened at his heartfelt praise. Then she smiled graciously. "You honor me, brother. I am relieved I could be of aid."

Magni nodded solemnly. "You are learning to wield your magic responsibly. Should you continue upon this path, the day may come when you too could serve as an ambassador, fostering goodwill throughout the realms as Rayner does."

He paused slightly, as if he considered his next words. Shifting a bit in place, he looked back out towards the forests. "When we first spoke, you expressed an interest in visiting Midgard. After today's deeds, you have my blessing to journey there, once affairs in Asgard are settled."

Amara's entire face lit up. Impulsively she embraced the burly king. "Thank you, Magni! Your faith in me shall not be misplaced."

Magni awkwardly returned the sudden hug, patting her back gently so as not to accidentally crush her. "Yes, well...get some rest. Your first journey to the mortal realm is not a thing to undertake lightly."

With a final squeeze, Amara released her towering brother and stepped back. "Of course. Good night, brother. And thank you again!"

She practically floated off down the hallway, no doubt to begin planning her future travels. Magni watched her go, a small smile cracking through his beard. Perhaps his once wayward sister was finally finding her place after all.