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His heart leapt at the sight of her. He should've expected Frigga would be here, always present when she didn't need to be. Why wouldn't she just avoid him? After all the trouble he'd caused, it'd be easier to accept the fact that he'd become another one lost. His mind singed at the memory. The way things were left between them would remain one of his biggest regrets. Going through all the trouble to stage everything in a desperate attempt at gaining their favor. Everything back fired, in the end slaying Laufy brought them no closer to peace. He was caught in a downward spiral never believing he'd end up here again.
She hadn't changed a bit, seeming just as heart broken now as she did then. The way she looked at him with those eyes. It was the same as when they were children, scolding them for getting into trouble. It seems not much has changed since then. He has yet to grow up and she refuses to give up on him. Insisting on retaining that motherly instinct even now that her sons were at odds, and he was beyond control. Committing unspeakable acts and yet she still managed to see past that. Wondering who it was that hurt her son. She had to know this, looking at him with those worried eyes, as if she could see through his deceit. He would've rather not been seen like this, not by her. Knowing it was necessary to accept the fact, like plucking a thorn it'd be easier to deal with if they just got it over with.
She calmly approached the two of them, sending Loki into a cold sweat. He's unable to form the right words if any to say. He didn't think he'd ever see her again. She was the only one who didn't treat him any differently, the only reason for the longest time that kept him hanging on to the possibility that he actually belonged here. He couldn't have been more wrong, quelling his feelings as she stepped up close. Gazing into his eyes as if looking for something that wasn't there, he did not falter, retaining that hardened image all while stifling the tears.
Thor watched from the side feeling a strange sense of dismay, stemming from the melancholy he held for his mother. He remembered how hard it was for her when they'd lost him. There was this fleeting bit of hope when she managed to find him but by then it was too late. It was his job to bring him back by any means necessary. After everything she'd done for them, she couldn't prevent this. He shifted his eyes away, falling past the entrance to where he noticed his friend patiently waiting at a distance.
Thor passed the chains over, leaving him in the care of the guards. He made a subtle nod to his mother and without another utterance toward his brother he left. Meeting up with the warriors three and Sif, all welcoming him back with open arms. They didn't pay too much mind to Loki aside from parting glances. Everything considered no one expected this. They felt bad for them knowing there's nothing they could do to soothe the blow. They ushered Thor toward the mess hall where they had prepared a feast in his return. He nodded, not feeling all that hungry as he turned, leaving the two of them alone.
Frigga didn't break her eye contact. Desperate to uncover the truth, knowing he was prepared to fight her every step of the way. She refused to conceal her feelings. He was hers and no amount of static would overshadow that fact. Only wishing she was able to rid him of this trouble, sensing the pain he was in. She leaned in close as if inspecting him, disbelieving this was her son truly brought back to them. She gazed deeply into his emerald eyes as if peering into every fiber of his being. Against the hesitation of the guards she set her hand against his cheek to reassure the fact that he was real. "Where have you been all this time?" She uttered, narrowing her brow, pleading for answers.
It hurt his soul but he must retain the image, repeating it over again for her protection. "What do you mean?" He inquired coyly, arching her brows. "I called out to you and you did not answer. I could see you, almost reach out and touch you but you shut me out." She was referring to nearly a week prior at the beginning of all of this. For the longest time she attempted to reach out to him, locating him was nearly impossible and for almost a year they were unsuccessful. Just recently she managed to hone in on his location.
A desolate asteroid belt at the edge of a forgotten galaxy. He vaguely remembered the image of her appearing in front of him, moments before he descended. He was for lack of words, not himself at that moment. His chest ached at the thought of it. Succumbing to the influence, nothing could penetrate his mind at that time, not even her. "What was that place?" That remark caught him off guard, so she managed to catch a glimpse of it. He hadn't expected that, the thought of it sending a shudder down his spine. "It's a shame you're just out of reach." He uttered a bit cold, deflecting the question, refusing to let her pry, although it felt like his chest was caving in.
"What's the point of all this?" She urged him to explain his actions, knowing full well how he was. Nothing on the surface is ever as it seems. "It's just in my nature." His eyes were glossed over as he managed a sincere smile, believing his own words. Frigga wasn't so sure. He couldn't let her see him for what he truly was, a fraud. As if he could confess he had no control over his actions, like anyone would believe that. He couldn't even attempt, for the fear of what might happen should he speak. He held his tongue knowing it would only bring misfortune toward them and he'd done enough as it is. Nothing good has ever come of his presence, he couldn't risk it. Retaining that false image of self that seemed to work for everyone else but he could tell she could see through him.
"Haven't I made you proud?" He inquired sharply, hoping to get a rise out. Still she remained calm as the doors opened wide and they were led inside. She feared for him. "Please don't make this any worse." Remaining sincere, for her heart was breaking for him. He'd done so much already, nothing could be said, not that he of all people would listen. There were no excuses. Even if he told the truth he knew he was going to be executed.
"Define worse." He bit back, caring not for Odin's presence and the proceedings. His mind was preoccupied.
"Enough." Odin cut them off with a bellow as Loki darted back with a venomous eye. "I will speak to the prisoner alone." Loki held his head down as Frigga gave him a parting glance before taking her leave. Hoping to press him further when she had the chance. Something just didn't sit well with her but for now he would have to be brave and endure. He shifted his sights away from Frigga as she rounded the corner. He noticed there was no crowd awaiting his arrival to what he imagined would be one for the books. He figured all would gather around to see what had become of the traitor prince, to gawk at his glorious failure.
He finally turned his attention to his father, holding his resentments towards him. Although he would admit it, their meeting was bittersweet compared to his send off. The image burned into his mind, the disappointment in his eye. There was nothing left to go back to. Reminded of the fact even now as Loki stepped up sarcastically, clinking his ankle cuffs together in mock salute. He should've been scared or something standing before him. To be bound in chains looking up to the man he once respected most in this world. As if a lifetime ago. Still something about this entire ordeal seemed comical. He couldn't help but smile at the sight of his serious scowl. They'd finally come full circle. He couldn't help but laugh. "I really don't see what all of the fuss is about."
"Do you not truly feel the gravity of your crimes?" Odin looked down on Loki, sharing the blame for the way things turned out, there's so much he wished he could've done differently. Somewhere along the way Loki got lost and he hadn't even realized it, hardly recognizing the person he's become. Those eyes have become cold and callous for a reason.
Odin was always so rigid and calculative towards him as if he could see into his soul. Dissecting his every move, there were many instances where Loki's unable to meet his gaze, the feeling of an overwhelming sense of inferiority between them. He understood his place. He'd always been intimidated by him, Odin wouldn't be a great king if he wasn't feared. Even so, something was different now. For some reason his heart wasn't palpitating in his presence, in fact he was outstandingly calm as their discussion ensued.
"Wherever you go there is war, ruin, and death." Odin exclaimed, seeming to prove his point when Loki deflected the question.
"I went down to Midgard to rule the people of Earth, as a benevolent god. Just like you." Loki implied, a bit sarcastic. That's what he always wanted right, for his sons to become great and powerful rulers. To lead with an unrelenting iron fist. Become a symbol of something more than just to live a meager existence. "We're not gods. We are born, we live, we die. Just as humans do." Odin inferred, knowing he was no better than a common man.
Loki didn't stifle the fact that he felt otherwise. Caring not for his own existence let alone a mass of others whose existence is but a mere blip compared to them. "Give or take 5000 years." Loki uttered with a smirk.
"All this because Loki desires a throne?" Odin denounced.
"It is my birthright!" Loki exclaimed, only to be cut off once more. "Your birthright was to die; as a child." Loki held hurt in his eyes as he spoke. "Cast out onto the frozen rock. If I had not taken you in, you would not be here now to hate me." Odin insisted.
In the beginning his intentions were to unite the kingdoms but in time he learned to love him as his own. He was hesitant to reveal the truth and enact his plan, feeling some type of way about it. He'd allowed the secret to linger in the back of his mind for so long, there was always this risk, he should've assumed Loki would find out one way or another.
Odin suspected it might end up this way. Even Loki understood early on nothing good ever comes from his presence. Even though the others couldn't have known, everyone seemed to treat him differently. As if he was a black sheep. Even after learning about his origins, he strived to impress his foster father to no avail. When he'd fallen asleep, Loki took the throne doing what he thought was right. He believed in ending a war before it started. His mind was conflicted at the time still, he knew where his loyalties lie.
In a desperate attempt at proving which side he'd chosen. Even though he was not of his flesh and blood, his allegiance was to Asgard. He meant to finish that fight he started long ago. Although it was all just part of a desperate attempt at denying the truth. Still he was outshined by his brother. They turned on him, never once given him a shred of faith as if his purpose was to push Thor. Make him shine in comparison. Although it forced him to grow stronger, he was never noticed. Living in his shadow. He felt purposeless, vile and unwanted. He had nowhere else to go so he fell, accepting his death yet the universe was not so merciful.
Loki's eyes were reddened with kept tears. "If I'm for the ax then for mercy's sake just swing it. It's not that I don't love our little talks, it's just that I don't love them." Loki admitted, desperately wanting this process to be over, spending the better part of his life in avoidance, denying his path. He knew it would all catch up to him eventually. He raised his head accepting his punishment.
Resolving a mess of this magnitude would be near impossible. Still there was something strange in Odin's eyes as he gazed down at Loki. He didn't see an infamous war criminal capable of such heinous acts but one of his greatest failures. On the outside Loki remained stern and unapologetic, putting on a brave face, spouting what they expected him to say. Making false claims to the throne as if it were his own. Although he held that same controlled demeanor, beneath the surface he was barely keeping the pieces together.
It may just be a display but Odin could tell he wore his heart on his shoulder, the emotion true even with his poker face, his tears were brimming over the edge. He could tell he was in pain, carrying such a heavy burden. It was like he'd become a feral beast in that time apart. His eyes are reflective of a creature beaten and backed into a corner. As much as it hurt Odin to do so he couldn't be gentle in this regard. The severity of his crimes outweighed the feelings he held. All in all he was King first and foremost, his duty was to his kingdom no matter what link he held with the culprit. He held firm, Loki must learn his lesson, refusing to show any leniency. Tough love is the only thing he could offer him. Perhaps sometime in isolation would be just what he needed to reflect on his actions.
"Frigga is the only reason you're still alive and you'll never see her again. You'll spend the rest of your days in the dungeon." Odin proclaimed as Loki was taken aback. "And what of Thor? You'll make that witless oaf king while I rot in chains?" Loki scoffed, as the guards pulled against his restraints.
"Thor must strive to undo the damage you've done. He will bring order to the nine realms and then, yes. He will become King." Odin declared as the guards pulled Loki away much to his resistance. He clenched his fist as he was led away. Although Odin had no choice, he was left to wonder if he'd done the right thing. Loki was hiding something, he wasn't sure what but he knew him well, better than he gave him credit for. Loki wasn't the most forthright person but he wouldn't have gone through this much trouble for nothing. From his perspective there was nothing to gain. Taking a fool's chance. Strange of all he didn't seem entirely torn over the fact everything's falling apart around him. He could pretend it didn't bother him but he knew better. He was quivering in his boots.
Loki followed along without retort, feeling a bit off, supposing some of the shock was still fresh and that his mind was playing tricks on him. He couldn't help questioning everything around him. As if everything has changed. Treating each familiar face he came across as if they were one of those monsters in disguise, just waiting for an ample opportunity to strike. Although he knew better. Never willing to admit he was terrified of the unknown. There was so much he hadn't figured out. The blanks in his memory still weighed heavily on his subconscious like a plague. They must've done something to block it out. His body ached at the thought although he couldn't recall in detail.
Everything happened so fast. Praying over the past year to return home, knowing he would not be welcomed still, if there was a snowball's chance he was willing to try. It was different now. There was no place where he felt he truly belonged, other than the grave. He shook his head and the captain seemed to notice, eyeing him from the rear.
Loki was caught up in his head, his thoughts so loud he was sure the others could hear them, feeling a rise in panic as they passed by several civilians looking at him with that pitiful stare. There was a hardened skepticism written in the details of his face, darting glances to those around him long forgotten. For a moment defaulting back into his survivalist way of thinking, touching all his bases, knowing this place like the back of his hand, escaping would be no issue still he held no motivation to. Nor was he in the condition. There were so many things wrong with him he realized over the last hour. Especially how tired he was. He didn't realize how strong their hold was on him and how much they kept him going. Beneath his armor he was worn and lanky. His breathing was notably restricted.
He shuffled his steps, his horrible experiences lingering somewhere in his subconscious daring to surface. His last encounter with the Other weighed on his mind, ensuring that the promise he made wasn't an empty one. Even in captivity he knew it'd only be a matter of time before that evil creature would come for him, make glad tidings of loose ends.
Loki blinked heavily, each step increasingly more sluggish as he was led onto the lift. A beautifully constructed gold disc-like structure that was flush with the floor. It was composed of concentric circles, complete with gold rails that encircled the device, embellished with intricate carvings and decor. The rest of them followed as the captain manipulated a few controls and it started to move. It was an odd sensation, descending into the dungeons like this, seeing things from a prisoners perspective. Honestly it hadn't felt any differently, feeling trapped one way or another. Loki closed his eyes, patiently waiting for the descent. Actively fighting against his body to remain upright while they stood there. His mind remained vaguely detached and most likely concussed. His throbbing headache was still very much a nuisance.
As they descended a few levels, the rooms became increasingly more unsettling. Each one held a certain personality. Whether it was the putrid scent of decay or the curdled screams of numerous creatures that echoed within the confines. Procured through relentless methods of torment. Only seeming to increase in intensity as they plummet.
He could feel that nervousness blossom into something much worse. Painful images graced the surface momentarily, just long enough to remind him they were there as if waiting to be acknowledged. It made his blood run cold. He went rigid, absentmindedly curling his fingers around the chain link at the thought of it feeling very familiar. He was sure his cell was just a bit further, doubting the anticipation would arouse such a feeling.
Suddenly there was a bright burst of orange and the fresh scent of blood braced his senses, curious shadows cast by imaginary light. He doubled back, unsure of himself observing the dark, certain nothing was there. Unable to shake this looming anxiety, feeling as though something was out of place, making his hair stand on end. He should be used to his eyes playing tricks on him by now but this felt so realistic. It was evident he was losing whatever sanity he had left with each passing moment. He attempted to calm his beating heart when suddenly another flash caught the corner of his eye. He could see a figure appear like double vision and even though he knew it was fictitious, he could feel the hot sting of something against his back. It hurts as though he's being burned.
Loki lurched forward slightly, clasping his side, seething in pain as though he'd been attacked, doubting any of them were brave enough to try. He clenched his teeth, troubled by the fact he really was going crazy. His face was obscured by his long black hair, feeling the need to pull himself together. He'd come too far just to fall apart now, forcing his body to straighten, the pain every bit as real as that image felt and the scent of burning flesh.
The guards seemed to notice something was off with Loki, assuming he was up to something. Probably probing for pity if they had to guess. Knowing he would find none. They loathed him, after everything he's done. Running awry, crippling their kingdom, making them appear desperate and weak. It was unforgivable. Even if his agony was genuine, they felt it was well deserved.
"What are you, getting tired?" One of them mentioned, whisking the heavy chains causing Loki to sway unsteady against the weight. "I wonder how it felt when you got your ass kicked by a bunch of Midgardians."
"Pretty pathetic if you ask me." Answered another one. The fact that they seemed to be toying with him drove his nerves. As expected they were eager to get a rise out of him. He didn't answer, honestly the entire ordeal didn't bother him nearly as much as these wanna be soldiers, probably fresh out, never seeing an ounce of action. Loki just smiled wickedly, dissecting them with his eyes terrifying enough to give them chills. Their fear was prevalent as their spears quivered at attention.
"Enough, no sense antagonizing the prisoner." The captain urged, forcing them all to break focus, they knew better than to instigate. Loki's lingering eye fell on him.
"How admirable captain, teaching your dogs to roll over. I wonder where their loyalties lie." Loki prodded. "Shame they're unable to meet my eye. Must be hiding something."
"I think you're the one hiding." The captain responded, taking an interest in his deteriorating condition. Now that it was quiet and the rustling chains had ceased he was able to hone in on that horrible wheeze. His lungs sounded terrible, most likely an indication of internal bleeding. He must've taken a hell of a beating, even if it didn't look like it. Whether Odin knew it or not he might've granted him the death sentence after all.
Suddenly the lift ceased. "Come on, we haven't got all day." Insinuating there was somewhere else more prevalent to be. They started moving, his bones creaking at the motion. He's not in the best spirit but he's just trying to keep from collapsing on the floor. Knowing his pride wouldn't allow it, absentmindedly concealing his trauma, without the slightest idea of the severity. It had to be worse than he thought. For him to be aware. He clenched his jaw, following along as he was led down the hall. Loki wondered how much further they were taking him, concealing his feelings the entire way, never letting them see how he truly felt. He'd held it in this long, what was a few more moments.
Unfortunately agonizing longer than he anticipated. After a while Loki had developed a subtle limp, several points along his leg to his ankle were inflamed. Aggravated by that final attack. The steady throbbing within his calf brought back the memory of being thrashed back and forth against the concrete. The green giant had squeezed his limb hard leaving indents on his muscle and skin, forming dark bruises. Each mirroring his massive fingers curled around the limb. He was sure he fractured his tibia but for now he shuffled forward, each step increasingly more painful.
They could tell he was slowing, hardly able to maintain a steady pace. The men eyed each other confused, debating whether their eyes were playing tricks on them or Loki was obviously injured. One arching a brow, reaching a hand out to Loki's shoulder when it was intercepted by another. He turned to see his Captain, eyeing him intensely, shaking his head, indicating not to interfere.
"You're not looking so good. Be a shame if you keeled over before you got to your cell." He didn't acknowledge it, although it wouldn't take much to remind him to worry about himself. Loki wasn't weak, by any means. Even wounded he could take all of them on, holding his fighting prowess in high regards. Easier said.
His hair shadowed his eyes, getting used to their pace when suddenly they stopped. Uttering several indistinct commands to each other, majority of which he paid little attention to. Not until they jerked him forward with his chains. Several of them grabbed his shoulders, anchoring him in place while two more fabricated sharp spears at his side, aimed at his chest and stomach, just daring him to move.
The captain with a key perched between his all too nimble fingers grinned wickedly as he leaned close to Loki's face, fixating on him with a venomous gaze. It was no surprise. He wanted him to suffer. Alas he'd been given strict orders not to harm this particular prisoner. Even after everything he's done. It seemed the king still held a soft spot for this pile of garbage. He couldn't believe they were still catering to him after the harm he caused. This was hardly a jail cell. Fully furnished, food, amenities. It was disgusting.
"I don't know what they see in you but you'll always be a trader." He grit his teeth, attempting to understand the reasoning. Living in solitude would be a crueler punishment than death. It was something none of them noticed. The thought of it made him smile. He'd seen that look before, even displaying it from time to time. That insatiable thirst for vengeance. During his conquest and betrayal, he'd inadvertently caused several guards to lose their lives. The captain would not hesitate to end his, considering it a blessing.
"Make a move and my men will not hesitate to cut you down." He announced, slipping the key into the lock in the door at the side of the prism. Loki remained idle, a nefarious smile played at the corners of his lips. A passive threat no less. "I'm sure they'd love to." He scoffed, unlocking the door, suddenly part of the force field ceased and there was just enough space for a person to enter.
"I know you're angry but you chose to follow. Like lambs left in the cold, huddled up for warmth. You coddle behind your master no matter what face he wears, you were meant to be led. What was a flock without mindless followers?" Loki continued. "You'd like nothing more than to end my life. So what's keeping you hmm? Status, is it your duty to protect the prisoner who incited the death of your men? Do the consequences hold you back? Do your men's lives mean so little to you?" The captain remained stone-faced, his eyes were colder than the frozen tundra of Jotunheim. Inside he seethed. Loki made his blood boil. He'd love nothing more than to sew that mouth of his shut.
"I guess not." Loki murmured as a matter of fact, turning to the entrance, leaving the other fuming at his insolence. The captain grinned, without another ounce of hesitation he gripped the back of Loki's neck, holding him in place. "You believe you're untouchable don't you? You're mistaken if you think I'm willing to entertain the idea. What happens down here, remains." He threatened, still Loki didn't seem to mind.
"You'd be hesitant to speak if my hands were not bound. I could kill every one of you." Loki was intimidating but utterly harmless. All he could do was project the image of strength, hopefully entrance others with fear. It worked so far but humans were weak and malleable. Asgardians would not be so easily swayed. The captain leaned close into his ear. "I may not be the one to put that nail in your coffin but I feel you already know."
Loki was intrigued, feeling his body tense as he held this stiff form. The slightest shift and they would impale him with pure Asgardian steel. "I can smell the stench of death on you." Loki furrowed his brow, not overly fond of his position. This bastard was testing him. "What are you implying?" His jaw tensed, waiting for the other to elaborate.
"From the way you walk you're barely able to keep up. You're injured, those are old wounds." The captain uttered hushed. Loki smiled, his back to the rest of them. It was only a matter of time before someone noticed. "How perceptive of you, Captain." Loki glanced back, indifference in his eyes. His condition was deteriorating. He doubted he'd receive medical treatment down here, not that he'd ask. Even if he was dying. "Are you insinuating that you'll miss me? How sweet." Loki snickered.
The other sighed, releasing his grip on Loki's neck, signaling for his men to stand down. "A sleazy creature like you will die cold and alone but just think when you're gone the world will become a better place."
Loki retained his grin, "for your sake, I hope you're right." He sneered, eyeing the captain with that look. There was a time not long ago where they'd admired him. He was ruthless and a master tactician, leading them to victory on many occasions but now, he was unrecognizable. A shadow of himself. None of them saw this coming. It was disgraceful the way he just accepted his fate.
The thought of it struck a nerve, even more so when he connected a heavy right fist with Loki's jaw, knocking his head back slightly. Although he'd taken the hit surprisingly well, reminiscent of the strength he still held. It wasn't what he expected, still it felt good to punch him in his smug face.
Loki remained calm, turning his head around slowly, a bit of blood ran down his chin from where his lip caught his tooth. Loki idly cracked his neck before licking the blood away with a cold look in his eye. "Feel better now?" Loki spoke calmly and collected. It made no difference. The captain seemed the most bothered by the altercation. Staring back at the other with increasingly angry eyes.
It was strange, he wanted to see something, show a bit of emotion, anything other than this passive acceptance. He may not like Loki but there was a time not so long ago where he admired him. His skills were exceptional and it's obvious he's given up. It was such a waste.
The captain sighed, unlocking his cuffs. He knew Loki wasn't going to try anything, there wasn't much of a fighting spirit left and honestly he wasn't worried. The heavy chains clamored to the ground with a thud as Loki stepped inside his new residence. He was just as surprised as they were to see its contents, nearly identical as his room. Suddenly the shield connected and he was left to his vices.
"Traitors don't deserve such luxury." One of them mumbled and Loki couldn't help but agree.