Your eyes flickered, trying to wake up. What's going on? Your whole body felt dead and heavy as if gravity had full strength over you. Struggling to open your eyes, you try to feel where you are. Covers, soft mattress, pillows… the pattern of the thicker blanket seemed familiar. It was your bed. A low hum of voices sounded downstairs in the living area. What were they saying? And why were you so tired? Finally, you managed to get your eyelids to function and look around. The curtains were partially closed, only allowing a sliver of light into the room. There was a glass of water on the nightstand with some ibuprofen pills. You managed to sit up, but you felt very dazed and slumped back against the bed frame. Where was Loki? You listened closely and tried to feel if his presence was nearby. Ah, there he was, in the kitchen. It seemed like Thor and Natasha were next to him too. Focusing with all the little energy that you had, you attempted to send him a thought. You had been practicing telepathy techniques with each other within the past few weeks, and discovered that you could share emotions and feelings requiring less energy and concentration than a full thought. You waited a few seconds, but nothing happened. This time you sent him a feeling of longing, strong enough that he would sense it right away. A moment later, footsteps were heard coming up the stairs.
"Y/n?" Loki walked in softly. "You're finally awake." He sat down and felt your forehead.
"What happened?" You whispered. It took an unexpected amount of effort to speak.
"It seems that you fell into a deep sleep on our way from the airport. Since then you've been sleeping, only awakened a couple of times in pain." Confused, you simply stared for a second. Pain? You remembered nothing.
"What pain?" You asked. Loki looked puzzled.
"You don't remember?" You shook your head. "It was quite distressing. Your whole body ached. Do you not feel it anymore?"
"Just tired." You reply. "What is wrong with me?" Loki helped you lay back down and tucked you in snug. Sitting beside you, he began caressing your hair.
"We didn't know until after running some tests. They don't quite understand it, but it is somehow linked to your pregnancy, as if the child is absorbing a great deal of energy from you." You sighed. "I have sent Thor to ask mother about it. Perhaps she will know what to do. I would have taken you to Asgard already if it were safe."
"I know," you smiled. "I'm sure she will know." Loki took your hand and kissed it lovingly.
"Now," he said. "You must eat and drink something before you shrivel up and disappear from existence. Even Celestials are subject to proper nutrition."
"I really have no appetite." You grimaced. "But I would like some water." Sitting up again with Loki's help, you managed to drink the entire glass of water. You tried food, but it made you incredibly nauseous.
"We might need to hook you to an IV again if you really can't eat anything." sighed Wanda, holding a small bowl of soup she brought up a moment ago.
"The soup smells delicious. But my stomach doesn't think so." You said apologetically. "Wait," You frowned. "What do you mean, 'again'? I've had an IV before?"
Wanda turned to Loki with a questioning look. In turn, Loki looked at you in surprise.
"Darling?" He said. "I suppose that if you don't remember the pain, you wouldn't remember the IV either." He reasoned.
"But why would I need an IV after just a few hours?"
Now Wanda realized you clearly remembered nothing at all, not even time.
"You have slept for two days." She explained. "You didn't know?"
At this you were quite surprised, although feeling as worn as you did, it wasn't a total shock. A soft knock sounded at the door, and in came Thor followed by Nat. He carried a package which he gave you, wrapped in golden wrapping paper and a royal blue bow.
"This is from mother," he said calmly with a warm smile. "It should help you feel better and give you strength. She left instructions inside."
"Oh thank you." You said. "Does she know why I am feeling this way?"
"Not quite, but her guess is the child is indeed absorbing a significant amount of strength from you—more so than a regular Celestial. So it might be because of Jötunn genetics. I believe she is going to send someone who knows about this to us soon, who just so happens to be a servant who was very close to your mother."
"My mother?" You opened the box to reveal several small jars and bottles filled with herbs, creams, and liquids. "What is her name?"
"I do not know, unfortunately." There was a tiny scroll tucked in the side of the box. Inside were instruction Frigga had written for what each thing was. Some were for nausea, others fatigue.
"It looks like I am going to need a bath." You announced, reading the scroll with a smile of delight. "I have been spoiled."
"Is there anything to drink that you need?" Asked Nat.
"This is for tea…" You pulled out a small jar of dried herbs. The leaves were green and purple with some blue flower buds. "And this as well." You pulled out another jar.
"It's so pretty." Remarked Wanda. "I feel bad boiling it in water." Thor laughed.
"Oh that bush grows everywhere. I could bring some more back next time I go. It's very good for nausea."
"Yes," chuckled Loki. "Mother made you drink it often growing up because you wouldn't stop eating so many berries in the garden."
"They were delicious!"
"Until you had to throw them up all over the place." Loki rolled his eyes.
"Alright you two," you interrupted, setting the box aside to get up. "I'm going to take a bath with this other herb so I can feel more like myself." Thor, who was closest to you, helped you up.
"We'll take care of the teas." Offered Nat. "Is there a special way to do it?"
"There is not," replied Loki. "It is like other teas."
"Thank you." You said to your two friends. "I'm sorry for being such a pain."
"Nonsense." And your two friends left.
"Thank you, brother." Said Loki, coming to help you in turn. You were able to stand and hold your balance, but feeling so weak it was necessary that someone helped you around. Thor left you both and closed the door behind him. Sitting in a chair, you began brushing your hair while Loki filled the large tub. The special bathing herb turned the water a deep purple, smelling sweet and fresh. Loki added a touch of his own of rose petals and water lilies.
"Do you need help getting undressed, darling?" He walked out of the bathroom. "It's all ready for you."
"I think so." He helped you stand to remove your clothes. After removing your sweater, he couldn't resist placing tender little kisses down your neck and shoulder.
"Have I ever told you how beautiful you are?" He asked running his hands down your waist.
"Only a million times." You laughed, turning to face him. "But I could hear it a million times more." He kissed you passionately while undoing your bra strap, allowing it to fall to the floor.
"My dear, I do believe you are severely overdressed." You tugged at his suit, looking up questioningly. Loki raised his brows.
"Am I?" With a turn of his hand, all clothes were gone. "Is this better?"
"My mischief." You smirked as you wrapped your arms around his neck, kissing back. After a brief moment of intimacy, he picked you up and placed you in the bathtub.
"Won't you join me?" You said still holding his arm. Loki smiled and stepped in beside you. Within ten minutes you felt stronger and energized, but enjoying the bath so much, you stayed for another half hour. Loki also felt the same way and suggested bathing on a regular basis, although you believed there was more to it than just the bath itself. Time was spent in each other's arms, thinking up names and what you would do as a family. The rose petals and water lilies floated about in the warm flower-scented water. Lights had been turned down, but once you noticed a couple of candles on a shelf, you lit them and turned the lights off. It was incredibly soothing and beautiful. Finally you dried up and got dressed before heading downstairs. A familiar scent of tea filled the entire kitchen.
"Look who's a new person!" Called out Wanda. "You look a lot better."
"Thank you," you answered, taking a seat at the island with Loki. "I feel a lot better." Wanda placed two mugs of steaming tea in front of you with a large bowl of yogurt parfait to share.
"Oh my!" You exclaimed in delight. "This looks so good, thank you so much."
"I'm about to be an aunt," laughed Wanda pulling two spoons out of a drawer. "It's my job to spoil both mama and baby." Your friend poured herself a mug and walked out. "I'll let Tony know you're down here." She called back. Loki chose a spoon and scooped some of the yogurt.
"Is that reason to believe that you are in good hands here?" He asked lifting the spoon to your mouth. You hated being fed, but from Loki you knew it was an act of affection.
"I would say so." You took the mouthful of nutty, fruity goodness. "Would you entrust me to them?" You lifted a spoonful to his mouth in return. He narrowed his eyes at the returned so called "favor" he also disliked, knowing it was only fair.
"I believe so." He took it reluctantly as you tried to not burst into giggles at how amusing you found his facial expression.
"Afternoon, lovebirds." Tony called out walking into the kitchen. "How is Miss Sleeping Beauty? Ready for an all-nighter?"
"Hi, Tony." You greeted softly. He walked over and gave you a hug. "We should definitely plan an all-nighter sometime."
"Perhaps when you are fully recovered." Advised Loki. "I can't have you sleeping for days on end like that."
"About that," began Tony, pouring himself coffee. "We got your results. Everything seemed normal for the most part. Your heart rate is a little higher than normal, but nothing concerning. Your body temperature has dropped some as well. Other than that you're basically exhausted. Even your level of power has plummeted."
"And the baby?" You asked.
"The baby is perfectly fine. Bruce is conducting some more research as to why this is." Your tea wasn't too hot anymore, so you took a sip. The sweet spice was warm and soothing all the way down, a true comfort from home.
"In the meantime," continued Tony. "I wouldn't recommend using your powers in order to save your energy for your own good."
"He's right," agreed Loki. "At least until we have answers."
"I suppose." You sighed before another spoonful of yogurt. Just then Steve walked in with Bruce and Dr. Strange.
"Hey Y/n," greeted Steve. "How are you feeling?"
"Much better." You answered between more spoonfuls. The tea seemed to be working.
"Good."
"Dr. Strange? I didn't know you were here." You said surprised. "I'm sorry to say I have been banned from practicing powers for now."
"So I've been told." He smiled. "I've actually come with a proposal." You noticed Loki shifting in his seat, not quite used to interacting with the guys of the team in such a casual, arms-down setting. You linked your arm around his.
"What kind of proposal?" You asked.
"Well," began Dr. Strange. "I understand that you are in need of a hiding place from Theron for a while. I have a few options I can send you to that would be perfectly safe."
"What do you mean by that?" Loki didn't seem very fond of the idea. "Shut her up in some world of yours?"
"Something like that, actually. Yes." Said the doctor calmly. "Let me explain. The only way in and out of it would have to be with my help, and we can interact through a sort of "window" I have. It's hard to describe, which is why I am willing to show you if you are interested."
You looked up at your Prince to see what he thought. He was definitely thinking about it, but couldn't find a better alternative.
"Well," he turned towards you. "It isn't my choice to make."
"How about this," you said. "Let's wait for answers about this whole pregnancy situation, and then look into it Dr. Strange's suggestion."
"That sounds like a good idea." Added the doctor. "Just let me know when you are ready."
"What about Theron?" Bucky joined the conversation. "What can we do against him if he does come? Our job is to protect the people."
"And we will." Answered Stark. "But I don't see why Theron would be a threat if we aren't one. Everyone needs to hold their breath if he comes, and act accordingly. We'll have to play by ear." Everyone thought for a moment and seemed to agree. There was a sudden turbulence outside and a flash of light.
"Bifrost." Announced Bucky from the window. "It's Thor… with someone else." Loki rose and joined him. You assumed it was the servant he mentioned earlier today. People started to slowly scatter except for Dr. Strange and Loki while you hurried to finish your food and tea. Thor finally walked in, followed by an elderly woman in a long cloak carrying a basket.
"Y/n," cheered Thor triumphantly. "May I present to you Agatha. She served your mother for… well, a very long time, and has come to help you." Struck by surprise, you shuffled to your feet towards the older woman.
"Oh—yes! I believe we have met before." You stuttered. "At the market when I was in Asgard a few weeks ago."
"That is correct." Smiled Agatha softly. "And now I have come to see what is going on here with the child." Her tone was low and soft, expressing her confidence. It was reassuring.
"Well, what a surprise." Joined Loki. "Agatha, it's so good to see you again."
"Thank you, Sire." She bowed. "I will not lie, it feels good to see you all again, although it breaks my heart as to how things have changed." Everyone knew she referred to her mistress's death. They had all lived together happily prior to that fateful day.
"Yes," agreed Thor. "A terrible thing indeed."
"So," you changed the topic. "What is to be done?"
"Yes," she began. "I will perform an examination to determine the cause of your symptoms. I have been into some deep study concerning Celestial and Jötunn pregnancies. I have a hunch, but need to confirm before making any major conclusions."
"You think it might be caused by Jötunn genetics?" Loki asked rather annoyed of his own heritage. He didn't like to talk about it, not quite sure what to do about it either. He lived with so many unanswered questions.
"I cannot yet say, my lord." She turned back to you. "Have you taken the medicines the queen has sent you?"
"A couple, yes. I feel much better now."
"Good," she smiled. "Then we shall do the exam, yes?" You eagerly nodded as you led her out of the room into your own. After asking a series of questions, examining your skin tones, eyes, and heart rate as well as temperature, she pulled out her notes and was quiet for a few moments, calculating.
"Well," she sighed finally. "Firstly, there is nothing to be deathly concerned about. The baby is healthy." She set her notes down a pulled a bottle out of her basket containing a dark green liquid. "It is you I am worried about."
"Me?" You asked.
"Frost Giants naturally have large babies and longer pregnancies. It is not uncommon for a newborn to be close to ten pounds." You winced at the thought. "In addition," she continued, "Jötunn babies absorb a lot of energy from the mother, also normal in order to survive the cold. What is more are your powers combined with Loki's are within you, feeding off of your energy. You will come to the point where you will be unable to perform much of anything, let alone protect yourself from any danger." She allowed a moment for you to process everything, picking up the bottle and placing it on your nightstand. "This is a potion the queen and I made specifically for your case. It should help you sustain a healthy amount of energy to reduce your time of bed rest." You nodded slowly in understanding. Dr. Strange's offer will have to be taken in this case, or you might very well be found and killed.
"Very well," you said finally. "I will do my best. What about the time of birth?"
"I will be there."
"Thank you, Agatha."
"Your mother would have wanted nothing more but for me to watch over you." Sadness resonated in her voice. There was so much you wanted to know about your mother. So many questions yet unanswered. You hesitated.
"Agatha," you pleaded. "Tell me about my mother." The woman ceased collecting her notes, slowly turning to face you and sat in a chair against the wall. You knew it pained her, but you needed to know your history.
"Of course," she said slowly. "Lady Astrid grew up in Asgard with the royal family after her people were killed by Theron. Odin had taken her in when she was a child. She married a second cousin of Odin's and had you. Somehow, Theron received news that Astrid was alive, and so she left in order to protect Asgard in attempt to kill Theron once and for all with her husband and a small army of warriors Odin had given them. Unfortunately, they never returned, having underestimated Theron's own army. Apparently Theron's army only grows larger as he raids kingdoms, capturing civilians as fresh soldiers. He never knew Astrid had a child. Your mother decided that you would be safer in Midgard, and sought for a good family that would adopt you. You were about 12 years old in human years. The rest is history."
Why do I not remember her?" You asked.
"To make it easier for you, she erased some of your memory in order to help give you a fresh start in Midgard." It was all hard to understand, why it had to be this way. You were grateful that you had encountered the Avengers as they provided the link back to Asgard. You subconsciously had created a flame in your hands and played with it, deep in thought.
"Your mother would do that." Agatha commented. You snapped back to reality. "Anytime she was deep in thought, she played with a little flame in her hands." You smiled.
"Mother like daughter." You replied. Agatha nodded with a sad smile, finished gathering her belongings, and followed you out of the room.