Several hours prior
…
The night crept into evening like a thief as their worried mother dashed down the hall. The sound of her rushed footsteps resonated within the vast empty space. Frigga hastened her pace eager to inform her significant other. Her heart fluttered in her chest as if she was racing along to the beat. Passing under the swaying flames of torches perched high along the hall. Those spaces in between devoid of light swayed with curious shadows giving the palace an eerie ambience as if there were creatures lurking in the dark. It was strange how the palace carried the weight of the day with it. Coupled with the silence there seemed to be no one else within feeling solemn and somber inside.
She mulled over every bit of information, teeming with mixed emotion. So frustrated she was nearly bursting at the seams. She wrapped her arms around herself, clutching the fabric at her sides. So many aspects of this incident were impossible to digest and yet her heart raced at the thought of everything she'd witnessed. Only able to catch a glimpse of the torment he'd endured before she shut it out. What she saw would worm its way inside, never to part. She bit the inside of her cheek as she swilled those images, feeling crushed under the weight of all she knew. Even more over those cracks within the story. Those blanks were so far and few between, there's no telling how much there is to this. She shook off the tormenting thoughts and worry best she could. More than ever it seemed like her destination was impossibly far away.
Frigga wondered what she would say. Odin may appear stern and cold sometimes but he was rational. Everything else was superficial, the facade he portrayed on the outside was a stark contrast to the person he was within. Odin was the most genuine man she knew. Over the years he'd become hardened and callused but not without good reason. Through the high of lows he maintained a stable kingdom, even as war and tyranny blossomed in droves all along the nine realms he remained a steady beacon of power and order. That didn't mean he was a flawless being. He'd made mistakes and there are times he's had to make the difficult decision. Frigga has seen him at his most vulnerable. She knows he was just doing what he believed to be best. He couldn't have known this would happen. None of them expected such tragedy to wash upon their doorstep. Although frigga feared this was only the beginning of something much worse lurking. Waiting for their moment to strike once more. After what happened on Midgard it might take them a while to recoup but still the idea of what they were dealing with remained pure speculation.
Each step was increasingly more exhausting than the last. Frigga wouldn't deny the fatigue nagging at her as she neared the throne room. She approached the open door leading to the great hall a bit winded as she rounded the corner. She paused just before entering, unable to hear any movement within. Confirming her suspicions when Odin was nowhere to be found. Oddly enough neither were the guards. It seemed as though the whole palace was at a standstill. Drifting into a fugue state of dissidence. She took a glance around wondering where he could've gone.
It was strange if he was to retire for the night, surely she would've passed him by now. It was getting late after all, thinking of several places he could be. Perhaps Odin was paying their unfortunate son a visit to the dungeon where he no longer remained. She figured the lack of commotion meant no one knew what happened down there. Either way Frigga didn't think he had the heart to see him imprisoned like that.
She closed her eyes, letting out a deep sigh as she turned her back to the throne. She turned to face the opposite side, furrowing her brow with a subtle frown as she honed in on his presence. There weren't many places that he'd frequent other than here. She searched for him, a bit surprised to see him there among the spoils of war. Surely he was admiring his new addition, hoping not to acknowledge the circumstances of how it came back into his possession. She hung her head, gravitating in his direction. She had a hunch he would come here. For what reason she was unsure. She assumed he was alone since she was able to sense any other presence in the vault. Frigga turned the corner, shocked to see him sitting on the floor with the tesseract in his hands. Odin's features were scrunched in thought as he stared into that confounded cube. "After all this time. It was safe there for a while but there always seems to be misfortune and conflict brewing on the surface. Now more than ever it is evident there is no such peaceful place in this world. Not while there are those desperate to obtain everything there is to offer." Odin whispered to himself forebodingly. There is great evil in this world, those willing to thrust everything into the fire at the chance. He could sense a dark presence stirring in the shadows, encroaching on the natural order.
Frigga approached him a bit wary, choosing to be beside him. She set her hand on his shoulder as she lowered herself still he would not budge. She shifted her gaze away from him to the object, knowing it was a haunting reminder of the past. She set her hand to his cheek, urging him to look her in the eyes. He was hesitant at first but obliged. His visible eye was red and filled with frustration. Frigga's reciprocated something similar. He knew something was going on. Sullen for not realizing it until today that they had a new enemy. He already had an idea that Loki couldn't be responsible for the attack. Whatever knowledge he held was far and few between. Loki could not have acquired this object without assistance. Odin didn't understand how or why he came to know of its existence let alone come into its possession. It was his fault for not paying much attention to the Midgardians. Perhaps if he had noticed long before now he would've been able to prevent this. He held that cube with a sorrowful look in his eye, tears brimming against the edge. He should've done something long before now. He blamed himself for this series of unfortunate events. Knowing if he'd intervened nothing of this would've happened. "I'm beginning to wonder if every decision I made was the wrong one." Odin said, setting his head to his open palm, an image not usually witnessed by living.
Frigga couldn't understand why all of a sudden he felt this way. "If that were true we would not be together, we must take the good with the bad or else we'd be living a life of blissful ignorance." She urged. "Have we not?" Odin lifted his head just enough to meet her eye. She was indifferent knowing the topic has graced her subconscious a few times prior and every time she's come to the same conclusion. "We're far from perfect creatures. We make mistakes, still living in hindsight won't make things any more tolerable." She stated a matter of fact but he wasn't so sure. He felt if he'd been more attentive things wouldn't have gotten so out of hand. It was obvious he was caught up in the details. Still she knew what was important. "Loathing won't help our son." She affirmed before leaving him with this. "Things are not always as they seem. And we can't lead with a blind eye." He nodded, thankful she knew the words to say. Frigga's slight smile dissipated as her eyes shifted to the floor. Still debating the best way to say this. Feeling it would be best just to speak from the heart. She was certain he would understand.
Frigga set her hands to her head letting it rest there as she told him the truth. "I must confess. After the boys returned, there was this feeling I was unable to shake. I convinced Thor to go speak with Loki in the dungeon but when he found him the room was in disarray and he was lying on the floor. I believe he intended to end his life. Thor brought him to me still something didn't seem right. He was in terrible condition, accumulating months of old, festering injuries. I was able to peer into his mind and what I saw was nothing short of Hel. I don't understand how he was able to carry on as if nothing was amiss." Frigga admitted, feeling the tears brace the base of her lidded barrier as she continued. "He intended on taking the blame because he's afraid the one who did this will return. Someone by the name of Thanos."
Odin furrowed his brow but he didn't seem entirely shocked. Although he reciprocated a stoic physic it seemed there were more prudent things on his mind. That name however intrigued him. Truth be told he'd heard about Thanos through rumors. He didn't think much of him although lately it seems he aims to make a name for himself. Odin knew whatever was to come, if he was at its core nothing good would come of it. "I had no idea this stranger was capable of so much. To manipulate Loki was truly unexpected." Odin said, shaking his head out of frustration.
Frigga nodded. "It was no easy feat. From everything I've seen I can only imagine what he had to go through for them to instigate each movement, let alone what it took for them to gain control." She could only imagine, as hard as he fought against them, for him to take orders with stride was highly unlikely. Their means are dirty and inhumane. It's miraculous he managed to survive and make it this far. They shared the same knowing look. There was only one thing capable of so much but how he came to possess one of the stones was even more curious. Odin straightened up at the thought, for some reason they were unable to foretell this. With a slight arch of his brow he concluded. "He was able to conceal himself and Loki's presence, who knows how many more he manipulates." He knew what had to be done. In time they would have to deal with his massive thorn in their side. But for now they had to tend to matters at hand.
"I want you to keep an eye on Loki. He's vulnerable and this Thanos undoubtedly had other things in mind." Odin mentioned before rising from his place. Frigga nodded, "Thor's with him now, I was able to restore him to some degree but, with the damage his body's sustained it'll be a while before he's anywhere near normal." She hung her head slightly at the thought of it, wanting nothing more but to take his pain away. "In due time." Odin murmured with a bellow of melancholy. Frigga narrowed her brows. "What about you?" She asked, looking up at him only to be greeted with an eye of uncertainty. "I will not see him yet." Odin said suddenly, ashamed of what he said to him earlier. When his duties as king and father intertwine he's uncertain of anything. He needed to give him time, knowing they both held mixed emotions. He regretted what was said, knowing it must've had something to do with his decision to end his life. He felt foolish and in time he would make it up to him. But for now he needed to recover.
She wouldn't deny she was a bit disappointed but gladdened that he understood better than anticipated. She let out a subtle sigh in exhaustion as she pulled her legs in to rise although when she made an attempt it was evident she didn't have the strength to. Odin could tell she's exhausted by her demeanor. "You pushed yourself too far." He scolded, scooping her into his oversized arms. "I couldn't help myself. He needed my help. I wasn't going to let him suffer. Even if all my strength is sapped it will be worth it." She explained, her eyes growing heavy as he lifted her. Odin hardened his brow, taking her out of the vault. His aim, a cozy little room down the hall. The fire was ragging within, all too inviting. He set her down on the bed, giving her a moment to get her bearings. She couldn't help but think about what he was saying the moment she entered, about how every decision was a mistake. She remembered the moment they found Loki, how could she forget. He was so helpless, left alone to perish. It even seemed like he'd subconsciously concealed himself to appeal to them. The thought of it tugged on her heart strings.
"You say it seemed like every decision was the wrong one, but taking in Loki was never a mistake." Her voice quivered as she spoke, able to sense the hurt hidden within each syllable. Odin remained quiet, allowing her to finish unhindered. "He's our child." She uttered as if he needed to be reminded. Odin closed his eyes, "Of course he is." Finding Loki was never anything he regretted. Still his presence presented its own trials and tribulations and yet he took them all by surprise, as if this was where he was meant to reside. He smirked at the memory of an infant left in the cold to perish gladdened to see his face. He couldn't help but wonder when it all went wrong. "We did not treat him any differently still somewhere along the way he grew distant. I just wanted him to be great, perhaps I pushed them too far." Odin admitted.
"Our boys are strong." Frigga stated, taking his hand. Odin nodded with a half smile, believing they could've done better. It was wrong of them to deny that which is within. To demonize his people over the acts of their king. He sighed heavily. "He is our son but he needs to learn to accept who he is. Frigga agreed, fearful they may never get the chance. "You should be the one to tell him." She told him, Odin in turn closed his visible eye before shaking his head in a firm no. He wanted to give him time. After all, Loki was very weak and his presence was sure to stress him out. Either way he had other matters to attend to, knowing the one who held him captive was out there planning his next move. Odin could tell something big was sure to come. That more than ever they needed each other.
"We should've told him the truth long ago." Frigga said suddenly. Odin reciprocated a face of indifference before she reiterated. "We should tell him." She said, shifting her tired eyes. He sat forward with his fingers interlocked in thought. "I don't know what good it would do now." He said in all honesty. "It could do no harm." She was right afterall. He held his reservations but he seemed to be questioning a lot lately. "It may not change a thing but I think it's time to tell him about her. He has the right to know." Odin nodded although he was indifferent. His features were hardened and it was always impossible to tell what he was thinking. He didn't want to cause any more harm. Frigga could tell it hurt to think about her. She'd sacrificed so much for them and still they've failed her child. Frigga clenched her fist as she stood fast. Her eagerness etched In stone.
"I must go to them." She went to rise but didn't have the strength. It didn't take much for Odin to convince her to lie down for a while and get some rest. That she was no good to them this way. She reluctantly agreed and within moments she was out cold. He smiled, brushing the hair out of her face. He hoped she knew what she was doing.
…
Several hours passed in the still of night. Frigga woke up suddenly, her mind drifting until she realized she'd been out all this time. She held worry in her heart for Loki, fearful something might have happened while she was away. She stifled that feeling, knowing so long as those two were together he would be okay. She swung her legs over the side, thankful for the bit of strength she had that she'd be able to carry her weight once more. She noticed Odin was absent, most likely tending to other matters. Knowing he wouldn't let his guard down again. She lifted her head high knowing she would do the same. It didn't take her long to reach her boys, although when she entered they're in the midst of conversation. They'd been talking for a while and Loki seemed visibly upset. At first glance it seemed like he was interrogating the other, causing him stress after she deliberately told him not to. "What's going on here?" She urged, startling both of them. "I said to avoid stress, that we'd talk about all of this when you're healed." She's furious at Thor for riling him so soon. Loki looked up in surprise with tired eyes as she scolded them. Thor is a bit hesitant to answer but chimes up. "We were just talking, he was hungry so I gave him some things." Thor started a bit intimated by her and it showed.
It took her a moment to realize. She was shocked at the sight right before her eyes. "You mean you two actually held a conversation?" She inquired. Loki raised an eyebrow before nodding. "There's much to be said." He uttered a bit ominously. Knowing the topic of conversation had steered into uncharted territory anyway, that perhaps it was time for a break. He shifted his eyes between the two of them. He could tell she was worried about him. The look in her eyes told him everything he needed to know. He didn't want to cause her any more unnecessary stress after all he'd caused enough trouble as it is. Frigga shook off the surprise, shifting her attention to Loki. "You should be resting." She scolded, setting her hands on his shoulders. He allowed himself to sink back under the covers to his detest. Still he had to admit it felt good to lie down on something other than sheet metal and concrete. A place he'd spent many sleepless nights riling in pain. He exhaled slowly, allowing the memory to fade and be replaced with the warm feeling of this place.
"It's alright, I'm feeling much better." Loki exclaimed, although he wouldn't be able to convince her otherwise. He let out a subtle sight, abiding by her wishes. Even though he was short of breath he smiled gratefully. That treatment did wonders. Frigga was thrilled it worked so well. Unfortunately she wouldn't be able to do anything else until her mana replenishes. She felt his forehead, his temperature has gone down significantly still she urges him to take it easy until she is able to mend more of his injuries. He was still in awful shape, bearing wounds in all different stages of healing. Even with her aid it would take quite some time to feel normal. He'd gotten so used to the feeling, anything to soothe his affliction was pure bliss. His tired eyes locked onto hers, although it seemed she was avoiding his gaze. She hadn't been entirely honest with him. Her features tightened thinking about what she could say. Believing she was partially to blame for the direction he's taken. Her fingers were interlocked like an impossible puzzle box never to be solved. She should've told him the truth long ago. Maybe they could've avoided all this riffraff in between although even she knew that was not possible.
Frigga hung her head, she didn't want there to be any more secrets. She made a promise to herself long ago that no harm would come to him and she'd failed. She remembered the sound of her voice calling out to her in her final moments, pleading with her to save her child. Frigga bit her lip hard, seemingly put off by something. It made Loki a bit wary, noticing how she awkwardly shifted around him. He could tell there was something wrong. She wouldn't look him in the eye when she spoke. "I have to tell you something. It may seem strange and out of place but it's something you need to know."
Loki was caught off guard, wondering what it was so prudent to have her bothered like this. He couldn't help his heart plummeting at the idea of what Odin had to say. His blood ran cold thinking about it. Odin probably pictured him as pathetic for what he'd done to himself, rightfully so he told himself. Loki became rigid, unaware of what was to come. Frigga's demeanor shifted so sudden and subtly that it seemed to pull from thin air. Projecting a sense of dread Loki couldn't help but absorb. Thor could sense the weight of the room, unsure of whether to distance himself from them or wait and listen. Frigga closed her eyes, diving into a distant memory. Her heart was heavy with remembrance. She clenched his fist, determined not to choke on her words. Her boys waited with anticipation for what she had to say. Each with their own figment representation for an explanation, anything to give reason for her stress. They couldn't be any further from the truth.
"There's something I have to tell you, something I should've said a long time ago. Perhaps we could've prevented so much heartache if we just told you the truth." Frigga admitted, seemingly bothered as if remembering the past hurt her. "What do you mean?" Loki retorted, cocking an eyebrow in confusion. She took a deep breath before relaying her memory. "A long time ago, there was a fierce faction of the Asgardian army known as the Valkyrie." Thor, although half asleep, perked up hearing her words not expecting the Valkyrie to become a topic of conversation. He couldn't help but chime in. "We've heard so many stories of them while growing up." Loki nodded, remembering the stories but he didn't understand what warriors who were wiped out long before he was born had to do with them. Frigga continued, her voice slightly lower as if speaking taboo.
"This all female force has all but been extinguished over the centuries. Several were present during the battle in Jotunheim but their numbers were already dwindling at the beginning of the conflict. At the midpoint our main forces were led into a trap. The path taken concealed an ambush and we never noticed. A battle was to ensue over the top of an iced over chasm that was designed to swallow us all. A Valkyrie could see through this deceit and with quick thinking was able to prevent major loss at the cost of her life. She sacrificed herself to save Odin and his army. That incident would've shifted the scale of power in the other direction. It was evident that they were desperate to gain the upper hand, after the attempt Odin was convinced and pressed forward. They'd made much headway but it still would be another year before the tipping point. Towards the end of the war as the Jotun were driven back, Odin lay siege to the castle and Laufy turned tail. Odin followed suit and although his enemy managed to slip past him he discovered something truly unexpected. He found that same Valkyrie clinging to life within his chamber, dawning chains and frostbitten flesh. He found her clutching a child. Just a babe no more than a few days old. Laufy seized the opportunity and attacked both of them in a last ditch effort out of spite still he'd underestimated her. Even weak and wounded, she was strong, even at death's door she held on."
The events were still fresh in her mind. It was a miracle they were able to find her after all of that. She shifted her eyes up from the floor, captivating Loki's emerald iris as she spoke. "She fought to protect you, Loki. That Valkyrie was your mother, Loralye." They found her as she lay dying from wounds inflicted by Laufy. He'd held her captive, making her his slave and nearly a month prior she gave birth to him. She was good friends with Frigga and a fierce warrior. They had no idea she was still alive let alone treated this cruelly. She did not deserve this fate.
Loki was stunned to hear this revelation almost as much as Thor beside him. It was almost too much to process all at once. He didn't know what to think, although in a profound way it seemed to make sense. It must've been the reason he was able to blend freely for the longest time even unaware, so long as he wasn't in contact with the giants his abilities remained dormant. The first time they saw him like that was right before his disappearance. For centuries it remained dormant, perhaps the Asgardian blood nullified those genes, recessing them until they were activated or agitated. Either way he was gifted with magic and surprised Frigga throughout his upbringing. She taught him everything she knew and he quickly surpassed her every expectation. She was afraid Loki would resent her for withholding this from him. "I'm sorry to keep this from you, I guess I was afraid of what you might think. I should've put more faith in you." She admitted although it didn't make her feel any better. Loki was silent, the look on his face revealed more than words could elaborate. His eyes were wide and he didn't know what to say. Even Thor seemed curious, choosing to remain a fly on the wall.
Without much thought Loki questioned. "What about her?" Frigga seemed confused as Loki continued. "I never really gave much thought to my birth mother. I could only wonder what kind of company Laufy would keep. Still I never imagined her to be a war prisoner. I despised my biological father for his treachery and I put an end to him in a feeble attempt at playing the hero. Right over there in fact." It was several feet from them where he struck him down. It wasn't his finest moment, still he didn't regret it. The thought of what he'd done made his blood boil. Laufy was a stain on the world needing to be erased. To learn how his mother was found. The way she was treated, neglected, bound in chains and left bleeding and freezing. Justified his action even under false pretenses so he told himself. Still she held no ill will against him even as the child of that monster. There was no love in his conception but she would not blame the unborn for the decisions of another. To her in the end to keep her baby safe was her only request. Loki was sure she wouldn't want him to end up like his father.
He understood that it was Frigga's intention to shed some light on his history. He appreciated the gesture but it only brought him more questions than answers leading into even more confusion. Truth be told it didn't change a thing. Loki didn't know what else to say. Honestly he was too tired to think clearly but he understood her intention. "I'm grateful to know the truth but it doesn't change how I feel." Frigga was afraid he might say that, feeling a bit of despair arise within her until he finished speaking. "You will always be my mother." He stated as Frigga's heart fluttered. She couldn't be any happier, without thinking she embraced him, squeezing him tight. He wasn't expecting it nor the pain procured, letting out an awkward, stifled yelp. It took seconds to realize what she'd done. "Oh no! I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to." Mentally kicking herself for being so careless. Despite the pain Loki was okay with it once the initial feeling passed. He knew she didn't mean it. Other than the discomfort he didn't mind. Reciprocating the gesture and pulling her close. She could melt. For so long she wanted this. She couldn't be there for him when he needed it most but she hoped in time he'd be able to find closure and be able to forgive himself for what happened. She could only hope. Frigga could feel the heat radiating off of him. Setting a hand against his forehead. "You still have a fever. It bet your body is fighting off an infection." She said brushing his hair back with her fingertips. "I'll bring you some medicine. Make sure you drink plenty of water." She urges, fueled by motherly instinct. Loki nodded affirmatively as his eyes shifted to the ceiling and traced the decorative frillage etched into the surface. Lost in thought, digesting everything.
Frigga motions to another room and starts to make some things for him. Loki was obviously tired, it's reflected in his eyes but Thor was all too eager to know more. Prying a bit now and Loki wasn't so much in a mood, his head hurt and he wasn't in the mood giving him subtle answers. "What about the stone?" Loki forgot he was in the middle of uncovering that little detail. He wasn't entirely sure of himself at the moment. His head was aching and the feeling radiating from his midsection. He didn't think he had the energy to explain. "It's a long, tedious story and right now I don't think I have it in me to relay." He admitted. Thor wouldn't hide the fact that he was disappointed, and he still respected his decision. He'd already given him more than enough to go off of, knowing in time he would be able to fill in the blanks he would just have to wait. He sat back in his chair with a notable huff as he shifted his sights to some art on the wall, processing everything he'd heard over the past twenty minutes.
Loki needed time to collect himself. Not much later Frigga came back with a silver case filled with an assortment of things. Numerous miscellaneous bottles and salves, after briefly explaining what each one was she set the case down at his bedside and handed him a pale yellow mixture for the pain. She made sure to tell him that this would not heal but temporarily paralyze the pain receptors. It was strong and with the amount she gave him it should last him a while at least until she could perform another treatment. Thor had no issue retiring for the night, slinking onto the oversized couch with a heavy thud although he would not allow his guard to drop even in sleep.
After hearing what she had to say Loki doubted he'd be able to sleep the rest of the night. His eyes were wide open staring into the dark ceiling. It was a lot to take in at once and he was unsure how he only thing for certain was there wasn't anywhere he belonged. He was a freak of nature still, the look in his foster mother's eyes was enough to reassure him. So long as she believed in him, he would be capable of overcoming this trauma with her support. In time he was sure he could make amends.
He shifted his eyes to the ceiling, tracing the details carved against the wood. She convinced them that they should get some shut eye and allow this hectic day to pass in peace. Still Loki's mind stayed active. His eyes remained wide open, staring into the dark, well adjusted to the lack of light. Able to see silhouettes of furniture and other miscellaneous objects littering the room. Many of which resembled false figures eager to get at him. He kept his guard even with both of them here. He knew he was safe but still it wasn't enough to convince his body nothing would come for him. He would never be certain of anything pertaining to such. He had a hard time remaining optimistic after all he'd endured. They'd all but bled that out of him.
Loki blinked heavily, allowing the shapes to fade into the background. He didn't realize how tired he was even with his mind wired he was sure he could fall asleep easily. Still unable to shake that anxiety. He inhaled deep through his nose, taking in the lingering scent of whatever substance she used to seal his wounds before binding them. He laid his arm across his stomach, feeling a pang of pain at his side. A grave mistake and yet he doubted he'd ever even ask for help without being so close to death. He was ashamed of everything he did. Always two steps in the wrong direction without a compass to guide the way. He'd held terrible company or terrible luck; he had trouble deciphering the difference. Not that it truly mattered after all his life seemed to be in a constant tail spin. He allowed his eyes to fall closed, sinking further into the encroaching darkness. Lulled by each lifted breath, lacing his lungs with fresh oxygen. The feeling was beyond words.
Loki let his eyes close, attempting to get some sort of rest even though he found himself wandering his mind aimlessly. He could hear Thor's abominable snoring off the side where he remained curled up on the couch. His mother who was at his side hardly made a sound. He tilted his head toward her. He could easily tell she was exhausted by the way she slept, as if sinking in quick sand not to be disturbed. Loki blinked heavily, partially sticking. He let out a sign still getting used to this space in his chest cavity. Over the next hour or so he drifted in and out as fevered images played on the walls cast off from a single fickle candle.
At some point you must have passed out because next time he cracked his eyes open it was because the sun's impressive rays illuminated him with its warm embrace. He shifted slightly still he wouldn't rise, refusing to open his eyes and meet the day. It wasn't until he heard the scurrying of hushed footsteps across the marble that his interest peaked. He cracked his eyes open to see Frigga beside him with several things in hand. There was a book, a pot of hot tea and some fresh baked goods. The scent was tantalizing. It didn't take long for Thor to notice, rising from his Slumber right in time. Loki turned his head toward her as Thor approached from behind, hunger in his eyes. Without even acknowledging the other she handed a biscuit over her shoulder which was graciously accepted.
She knew they had to be hungry after the night they had. Frigga shifts in her eyes toward Loki who was still debating whether to rise or roll over and meet the darkness once more. He blinks heavily as she offers him some sort of twisted pastry, something he hadn't had in a long time, not since he was a child. It was almost nostalgic to see it offered. He stared at it as if it was a tease, knowing full well she wouldn't fool him. He attempted to Levy himself up but was quickly reminded how he destroyed his hand while in his fit yesterday. Little pain jolted after the sudden aggravation still he forced himself to sit up stifling the pain on his face. She could see through him however and he needed to know it was okay to show emotion. She asks to see his hand and although he's a bit hesitative he obliged.
She took his right hand in hers in exchange for the pastry, gladly accepted with his left. Dusting the sugar from her fingertips as she unraveled the bandages. Becoming darker with each layer until there was no more. She traced the cracks in his flesh and how the skin had separated from his knuckles down to muscle. It was swollen and starting to scab over. Against his palm there was a deep cut that she can only assume came from the thick piece of glass still lying on her side table.
She furrowed her brows remembering how intense his memories were. She was unable to imagine what could've compelled him to do that to himself. Although empathetic towards his experiences she knew the thing he needed most was words of encouragement. "You must be more careful next time, don't let that monster get the best of you." His eyes widened at the utterance as she gazed into his eyes with a deep seeded worry that refused to relinquish. "Be strong Loki. I know you're better than this." She said as she thumbed his busted knuckles, raw and partially scabbed over. The face he wore was indifferent still he understood. He flexed his fingers out relieved of the tightness in his knuckles. To no avail. She squeezed his hand slightly but it was enough to procure a reaction. Loki seethed nearly withdrawing but she held firm. She quickly apologized before setting his other hand over the top, caging it within her fingertips.
She closed her eyes as a pale gold energy flowed into his hand, within seconds the swelling was soothed and the size of his wrist was cut down by half. The dark purple sprawling across the appendage receded and his cracked knuckles regenerated as well. She turned it over and the deep cut his palm from the glass shard was sealed. It was an interesting feeling even more so to witness the flesh stretch back into place and mend together. He was in awe of how well it worked, much more advanced than anything he was capable of. Although it was not without effect. The fatigue was even more evident when Frigga released his wrist, quick to take a seat at the edge of the bed, taking a moment to catch her breath. Loki furrowed his brow a bit worried but she assured him she was okay. He nodded, flexing his fingers, amazed they were no longer useless broken flanges. It was uncanny how well it worked. He was truly impressed at her ability. After all, she'd taught him everything he knows and he was grateful for everything she did, even when he knew he didn't deserve it.
She withdrew her arm, taking in a deep breath in an attempt to calm her nerves. Although she knew she would not be able to shake this looming anxiety. However misplaced, she wondered what could be instigating such a feeling. She exhales slowly, hoping it would roll off sooner or later. She closed her eyes, allowing the feeling to pass but her attention seemed captivated as she was plagued by a strange vision. A piercing pain resonated within her skull, hardly bearable. Her boys could tell something was wrong as she fell silent, shifting her hands to her head in blatant discomfort. Thor was at her side although she was determined to overcome the feeling. She stuck her hand out, rooting the blond in place. "I'm alright it's just. Something drastic is happening elsewhere. It's affecting me but I can't quite make out what it is." She just knew the feeling procured was dreadful. She could hear a sinister bellow manifest out of nowhere, reverberating within her head. She closed her eyes, allowing her mind to dive as strange images fabricated. It lingered in a cold, dark place. The only thing she could make out was a shapeless mass that seemed to engulf the space. A foreboding sense of dread came with a name. "Odinson" in an ominous tone. Frigga was visibly bothered by the voice. Her skin ran pale at the utterance. She had a vague idea what it might be although the thought of that beast being released. She hoped she was wrong. Suddenly a massive yellow eye opened up, its slitted pupil staring at her. An ancient creature, banished to the Midgard sea. "I've awakened, Odinson." Her heart dropped at the realization, captivated by the thought of the Serpent rising. She never even knew her boys were shaking her.