Kaguya awoke to the soft, insistent voice of Kakyuu, who stood by the window, her silhouette fittingly framed by the golden rays of the morning sun.

"Kaguya, it's time to rise. You'll regret staying in bed when the day holds so much promise," Kakyuu said, her voice melodic but firm.

Groaning softly, Kaguya pulled the covers over her head. "Five more minutes," she muttered, her voice muffled.

"No," Kakyuu replied with a gentle laugh. "Besides, someone left you a gift."

At that, Kaguya sat up abruptly, her silver hair falling in soft waves around her face. "A gift?" she asked, her grogginess dissipating.

Kakyuu walked over to the bed, holding a small wooden box in her hands. "It was delivered early this morning," she said. "The messenger wouldn't say who sent it, but I think you already know."

Kaguya's cheeks flushed a light pink as she took the box, her fingers brushing over its smooth surface. She opened it carefully, and her breath caught at the sight within. Nestled on a velvet lining was a necklace of exquisite design, its chain wrought from silver and adorned with deep crimson jewels that seemed to glow faintly in the light.

"A note," Kakyuu said, plucking a folded piece of parchment from the box and handing it to her sister.

Kaguya unfolded it, her heart beating faster as her eyes scanned the elegant handwriting:

Your new favorite deserves proper representation.

—Loki

Kaguya stared at the words, her mind flashing back to the night before—the dance, the way Loki's emerald eyes had looked at her with a depth she could scarcely comprehend.

"Red jewels," Kakyuu said, breaking Kaguya's thoughts. "How perfect. He must have known."

"Knew what?" Kaguya asked, trying to suppress the warmth creeping into her cheeks.

"That you'd choose red today." Kakyuu gestured toward the open wardrobe. A simple yet elegant ruby-colored gown hung prominently inside, its hue matching the necklace perfectly.

Kaguya stood and crossed the room, pulling the dress from its hanger. It was strapless and fell just above the knees—a daring choice, one that felt uncharacteristically bold for her. Yet she couldn't deny how beautiful it was.

"You should wear it," Kakyuu said, her tone encouraging.

"Do you think it's too much?" Kaguya asked, glancing between the dress and the necklace.

Kakyuu smiled. "I think it's perfect. And if Loki went to the trouble of sending you something so beautiful, the least you can do is honor his choice."

Kaguya nodded, slipping into the dress. As Kakyuu helped her clasp the necklace, the gems shimmered like embers against her skin. For a moment, Kaguya stared at her reflection in the mirror.

"What do you think it means?" she asked softly.

Kakyuu paused, considering her words. "Loki is not one to give gifts lightly," she said. "If he chose to send this to you, it's because it holds meaning—perhaps more than even he realizes."

Kaguya's fingers brushed the necklace as her heart swelled with a mix of emotions she couldn't quite name. She turned to Kakyuu, her lips curving into a soft smile.

"Then I suppose I should thank him," she said, her voice steady despite the whirlwind of thoughts racing through her mind.

Kakyuu laughed lightly. "Indeed. But knowing Loki, I think he already knows how much it means to you."

XXX

With that, the two sisters stepped out into the day, Kaguya carrying the warmth of Loki's gesture close to her heart.

Kaguya entered the grand dining hall, greeted by warm smiles and murmured greetings from the attendees. Even Sif, seated beside Kakyuu, offered her a polite nod, though her usual reserved demeanor remained. Loki, at the head of the table, leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled under his chin, watching her with an amused glint in his sharp emerald eyes.

"Ah, the Moon's brightest star graces us," Loki drawled, his voice rich with sarcasm and allure. "Come, Kaguya, enlighten us with your brilliance."

She hesitated for only a moment, catching the subtle challenge in his tone, before gracefully taking the seat beside him. "Good morning, Loki," she said, matching his composure with a polite smile. "I trust the Court hasn't worked you too hard this morning."

Loki chuckled softly, a sound that sent a shiver down her spine. "You'd be surprised how skilled I am at avoiding tedium."

Before she could reply, his gaze flicked to the delicate crimson necklace around her neck. "I see my gift suits you," he remarked, his voice quieter now, almost intimate. "Though I must confess, I doubted anything could enhance your charm."

Caught off guard, Kaguya touched the necklace lightly, warmth rising in her cheeks. "It's beautiful," she said honestly. "Thank you."

Loki's lips curled into a pleased smirk. "A perfect match, then."

Their exchange was interrupted as the meal began, and Kaguya found herself settling into the conversation. Loki's attention lingered on her, though, his sharp gaze studying her with an interest that made her heart race.

"Yesterday, you asked about my activities," Loki said suddenly, his voice breaking through the hum of the room. "Now, allow me to return the question. What occupies the days of a Moon Princess?"

Kaguya tilted her head, considering her answer. "Magic, mostly," she said. "I've always been fascinated by it—how it shapes the world, how it reflects the heart of its wielder. And, of course, I spend a great deal of time reading. I have an insatiable curiosity."

Loki's brows rose slightly, his interest piqued. "Magic and reading? A kindred spirit," he murmured. "Though I suspect you've yet to explore the depths of either."

"I suppose there's always more to learn," Kaguya admitted. "But that's what makes it exciting."

"Indeed," Loki said, his tone edged with a hint of challenge. "Though one must be careful—curiosity has a way of leading us to places we'd rather not tread."

There was something in his voice, a flicker of shadow, that made Kaguya pause. Before she could respond, Kakyuu appeared, her bright energy cutting through the tension.

"Kaguya!" Kakyuu called, her red hair catching the sunlight streaming into the hall. "I've arranged something fun for us today. A trip to the great library—there are rare tomes on magic that you'll adore."

Kaguya's face lit up. "That sounds wonderful! Thank you, Reiko."

Kakyuu grinned. "I knew you'd love it. Though," she added with a teasing glance, "you might want to change first. That beautiful dress isn't exactly library-appropriate."

Kaguya laughed and nodded. "I'll be quick."

As she rose to leave, Loki's voice stopped her. "Do try not to lose yourself in those books, Kaguya," he said, his tone laced with amusement. "It would be a shame to see such brilliance wasted."

She rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smile. "I'll keep that in mind."

With that, she headed toward her chambers, her spirits high. The warmth of Loki's gaze lingered in her mind, mingling with excitement for the day ahead. But as she reached her room, her path was suddenly blocked.

Loki leaned casually against the doorframe, his posture relaxed yet exuding an air of authority. His emerald eyes sparkled with mischief as he regarded her.

"And where, may I ask, are you off to in such a hurry?" he drawled.

"Loki," she said, exasperation mixing with amusement. "I thought you had more important matters to attend to."

"Oh, I do," he replied, stepping closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "But watching you is infinitely more interesting."

Kaguya shook her head, trying to suppress her smile. "Kakyuu is taking me to the library."

"Ah," Loki said, his expression shifting to one of exaggerated curiosity. "And what treasures do you hope to uncover there? Another spell to charm the stars? A story to rival your own?"

"Perhaps both," Kaguya quipped, her confidence growing under his scrutiny.

Loki chuckled, his smirk softening into something almost genuine. "Then enjoy your adventure, Kaguya. And do let me know if you stumble upon anything… enlightening."

He stepped aside with a flourish, and as she entered her room, she couldn't help but glance back. Loki was still there, watching her with that same enigmatic smile, as if he were privy to secrets she had yet to discover.

XXX

Kaguya sat on the edge of the fountain in the palace courtyard, her fingers idly trailing through the cool water. The morning sun bathed the area in a golden glow, casting warm light on the flowers blooming nearby. She had come here to find a moment of peace after the chaotic morning, but the familiar sound of heavy boots on the stone path broke her quiet reverie.

"Kaguya," Tomas called out, his voice cutting through the serene air. The tall, golden-haired warrior strode toward her with purpose, his face a mix of concern and indignation.

Kaguya turned her gaze toward him and offered a small smile, though she could already sense the tension brewing. "Good morning, Tomas. You seem troubled."

"Troubled?" Tomas repeated, a bitter laugh escaping him. "I should think so, considering what I've heard about your… recent associations."

Her brow furrowed. "Associations?"

"Loki," he said sharply, the name dripping with disdain. He stopped before her, crossing his arms. "The Jotunn prince. Or should I say, the trickster Jotunn."

Kaguya stiffened, her calm demeanor faltering. "What about Loki?"

Tomas leaned in slightly, his piercing blue eyes narrowing. "You've been spending far too much time with him. Do you realize what you're doing? Associating with his kind—it's dangerous, reckless, and frankly, beneath you."

Her breath caught, and she stood, her fingers curling into fists at her sides. "His kind?" she repeated, her voice low and sharp. "What exactly do you mean by that, Tomas?"

"You know exactly what I mean," he said coldly. "He's a Jotunn. A Frost Giant. Their kind are treacherous by nature, Kaguya. Liars, deceivers, destroyers. They have no place among us."

"That's absurd," she snapped, her voice rising. "Loki is the King of Asgard, and he's earned that title through his wisdom and strength. You speak as though he hasn't saved this realm more times than I can count."

Tomas scoffed. "Saved it? Or manipulated it to serve his own ends? You've read the histories, Kaguya. Jotunns are untrustworthy monsters. They've done nothing but bring chaos to the Nine Realms."

"Loki is not like that," she insisted, her chest tightening with anger. "You don't know him."

"I know enough," Tomas countered. "I know that he's bewitched you with his silver tongue and his lies. You're blind to the truth, Kaguya. It's dangerous to let yourself get so close to someone like him."

Kaguya's voice trembled with fury. "And what truth is that, Tomas? The truth you've fabricated to justify your hatred? You think you know him because of where he comes from? That's not truth—it's prejudice."

"It's reality," Tomas said harshly. "Jotunns cannot be trusted, no matter how well they play the part of a friend. It's in their blood, Kaguya. They'll turn on you the moment it suits them."

"That's enough," she said, her voice like steel. "Loki has proven himself to me time and time again. He's more honorable than most men I've met, and certainly more than you're being right now."

Tomas glared at her, his jaw tightening. "You're making a mistake, Kaguya. And when he betrays you—and mark my words, he will—don't say I didn't warn you."

She shook her head, disbelief and anger swirling in her eyes. "The only mistake I've made is wasting my time listening to your hateful ignorance."

Without waiting for a response, Kaguya turned on her heel and strode away, her heart pounding in her chest. Tomas's words echoed in her mind, but she pushed them aside, refusing to let his venomous beliefs take root.

As she disappeared down the garden path, Tomas stood motionless, his fists clenched at his sides. The air around him felt colder now, as if the shadow of the very Jotunn he despised lingered nearby.

XXX

The morning sun shone warmly on the palace courtyard as Thor and Kakyuu strolled along the garden paths, their conversation light and teasing. Kakyuu, her delicate crimson hair glinting in the sunlight, laughed softly at one of Thor's remarks about Asgardian warriors attempting to dance.

"I'd like to see you teach them," she quipped, her amber eyes sparkling.

Thor chuckled, hefting Mjolnir casually in his hand. "Aye, but first I'd need to survive the sight of their attempts."

Their banter was cut short when they heard a sharp cry echo across the courtyard. Thor's jovial expression darkened instantly, and Kakyuu stiffened beside him. Both turned to see Kaguya being dragged roughly into the open courtyard by Tomas, his hand gripping her wrist with cruel force.

Tomas shoved Kaguya onto a stone bench, sneering down at her. Her usually bright eyes were filled with defiance, but her trembling hands betrayed her fear.

"Thor," Kakyuu whispered, her voice tight with worry.

Thor's blue eyes blazed like lightning on the horizon as he watched the scene unfold. Tomas loomed over Kaguya, his voice filled with venom.

"You think consorting with a Jotunn makes you special? It makes you foolish. Unworthy," Tomas spat, gripping Kaguya's arm again when she tried to rise. "You sully the Moon Kingdom with your softness, your gullibility."

"Release me!" Kaguya hissed, her voice shaking as she struggled against his grasp.

Tomas raised his hand as if to strike her, but before he could act, a low rumble of thunder rolled across the courtyard. The air grew heavy, the bright sunlight dimming as if storm clouds had suddenly gathered.

"Tomas," Thor's voice boomed, his steps deliberate as he approached, Mjolnir gleaming ominously in his hand. "Lay another finger on her, and you'll regret it."

Tomas froze, his hand still raised, but his lips curled into a sneer as he turned to face the thunder god. "Stay out of this, Thor. This is a matter for the Moon Kingdom."

"It is a matter of honor," Thor countered, his voice as sharp as a blade. "And I will not stand by while you disgrace yourself by raising your hand to a defenseless woman."

Kakyuu stepped forward, her expression calm but resolute. "Let her go, Tomas. This behavior is beneath any knight sworn to serve the royal families."

Tomas laughed bitterly. "You think I'll listen to a girl from the Starlight Kingdom? You know nothing of our wars or our struggles. And you, Thor—your precious hammer cannot change what she's done. She's been bewitched by a Jotunn. She deserves no protection."

Thor's grip on Mjolnir tightened, the head of the hammer crackling with electricity. "Watch your tongue. You speak of my brother, your king, and of Kaguya, who stands under my protection."

Kaguya, struggling to rise, looked up at Thor, her expression torn between gratitude and fear. "Thor, don't—"

Thor silenced her with a glance, his eyes softening briefly before returning to Tomas with fury. "Enough," he declared. "Release her now, or face me."

Tomas sneered but hesitated, sensing the raw power emanating from Thor. Yet, pride drove him to grip Kaguya tighter. "You wouldn't dare raise that hammer against me," he snarled. "I'm a knight of the Moon Kingdom."

Thor's smile was grim. "Then pray you have the strength to prove it."

With that, he raised Mjolnir high, the courtyard erupting in a flash of light and a deafening crash of thunder. Tomas stumbled back, shielding his eyes, his grip on Kaguya finally loosening. Kakyuu rushed forward, catching Kaguya and helping her to her feet as Thor advanced on Tomas, the hammer now vibrating with raw energy.

"You are unworthy of the title you bear," Thor growled. "You disgrace not only yourself but the kingdoms you claim to protect."

Tomas stumbled further back, his confidence crumbling under the god's wrath. Finally, with one last glare, he turned and fled, muttering curses under his breath.

As the tension in the air dissipated, Thor lowered Mjolnir and turned to Kaguya, who was still trembling slightly in Kakyuu's arms. "Are you hurt?" he asked, his voice gentler now.

Kaguya shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. "No. Thank you."

Kakyuu smiled at Thor, her gratitude shining in her eyes. "That was incredible. You truly are a protector of this realm."

Thor managed a small smile in return. "It is what I am sworn to do."

Kaguya looked up at him, her voice steadier now. "I owe you more than I can say, Thor."

Thor knelt before her, his blue eyes meeting hers. "You owe me nothing. You are family, Kaguya, and family is worth fighting for."

Kakyuu's hand brushed against Thor's arm, her voice light but sincere. "You wield more than thunder, Thor. You wield justice."

Thor looked at her and chuckled softly, the storm within him easing. "And you wield words that could tame any tempest, Kakyuu."

As they led Kaguya away from the courtyard, the golden light of the sun returned, shining once again on the palace grounds. But for Kaguya, the warmth came not from the sunlight but from the unshakable bonds of those who had come to her aid.

XXX

Thor and Kakyuu entered Loki's throne room, their steps hurried and expressions grim. The Allfather, seated regally upon his golden throne, leaned back, his emerald eyes narrowing as he took in their somber demeanor. The room was bathed in the cool light of Asgard's skies filtering through its grand windows, casting shifting patterns of gold and silver.

"Thor, Kakyuu," Loki greeted, his voice smooth but tinged with curiosity. "To what do I owe this rather unannounced visit?"

Thor's jaw clenched, and he held Mjolnir tightly at his side. Kakyuu, her usual composure faltering, glanced at Thor before stepping forward.

"There has been an incident, my king," she began carefully, her melodic voice steady despite the tension in the room. "It concerns Kaguya."

Loki's relaxed posture stiffened. The faint smirk that often played at his lips disappeared. "Kaguya?" he asked, his voice low, dangerous. "What happened?"

Thor stepped forward, his stormy gaze fixed on his brother. "It's Tomas. He dragged Kaguya into the courtyard like she was some prisoner. Worse, he struck her."

The air in the throne room shifted, growing heavier as Loki's sharp intake of breath echoed through the space. The faint glimmer of his magic began to ripple around him like heat waves, and the silver of his throne pulsed faintly.

"He struck her?" Loki repeated, his tone deathly quiet.

Kakyuu nodded solemnly. "He called her unworthy and—" she hesitated, her voice trembling slightly as she recalled the venom in Tomas' words, "—he mocked her bond with you, my king. He insulted you as a Jotunn, saying that she had sullied herself by consorting with you."

The room erupted in a sudden burst of crackling energy as Loki stood abruptly, his hands clenched into fists. The windows of the throne room shattered outward, shards of glass flying into the open skies of Asgard. Thunder rumbled in the distance, though Thor had not called upon it, and the guards outside the room flinched at the palpable rage emanating from their king.

Kakyuu took a step back, her hand instinctively gripping Thor's arm as Loki's magic flared. His normally composed visage twisted with fury, his green eyes glowing brighter than ever.

"He dared to raise a hand against her," Loki growled, his voice trembling with suppressed rage. "He dared to insult me—in my realm, under my protection?"

Thor stepped forward, his voice firm but tempered. "Brother, your anger is justified. But Kaguya needs you now more than your wrath. We stopped Tomas, and Kakyuu tended to her. She is safe."

Loki turned to Thor, his chest heaving as he struggled to contain the storm within. Slowly, the magic swirling around him began to recede, though the jagged edges of broken glass and the cold air streaming through the room remained a stark reminder of his fury.

"Where is she?" Loki demanded, his voice soft but brimming with resolve.

"In her chambers," Kakyuu answered gently. "She was shaken but unharmed. We wanted you to know before you saw her."

Loki nodded curtly and strode past them, his long cape trailing behind him as he left the throne room with purpose. Thor and Kakyuu exchanged a look, relief mingling with concern.

"Do you think he'll be all right?" Kakyuu asked softly.

Thor's gaze lingered on the broken windows, the remnants of Loki's rage still crackling faintly in the air. "He's Loki," Thor said with a small, humorless smile. "He'll do what needs to be done—for her."

As Loki made his way through the grand halls of the palace, his magic simmered just below the surface, restrained but ready to strike. His mind was consumed with two thoughts: vengeance for Tomas and comfort for Kaguya.

No one touched what was his—not without paying the price.

XXX

The grand chamber was dimly lit, with the faint glow of runes etched into the walls casting flickering shadows. Loki stood at the center, his sharp features illuminated by the cold, otherworldly light. His emerald eyes glinted with barely restrained fury, and his lips curled in a chilling smirk as Tomas was dragged into the room by two Einherjar guards.

The door slammed shut with a resounding boom, echoing through the cavernous hall. Tomas, though feigning confidence, could not suppress the nervous glances he cast around the room. His bravado faltered under the oppressive weight of Loki's presence.

"Ah, Tomas," Loki said, his voice soft yet deadly. "I understand you've made certain… choices, of late."

Tomas sneered, his pride refusing to waver. "Is this how you handle matters, Jotunn? Playing games in the dark? Perhaps it is the only way your kind knows."

Loki's smirk widened, though the temperature in the room plummeted. Frost began to creep along the floor, the runes on the walls glowing brighter in response to Loki's burgeoning magic. "How quaint," he replied smoothly. "You speak of my kind as if you understand us. I assure you, Tomas, you have no idea what you've just provoked."

Loki raised a hand, and a shimmering circle of frost-blue light formed between his fingers. He turned it delicately, as though admiring a rare artifact, before hurling it to the ground. The runes in the room ignited, forming an intricate web of light and ice that encircled Tomas.

"What is this?" Tomas demanded, his voice tinged with unease.

"A truth spell," Loki said, his tone conversational. "With every lie you utter, the frost will seep into your body. You will find it… unpleasant. Shall we begin?"

Tomas scoffed, but beads of sweat betrayed his apprehension. "I have nothing to hide."

Loki's expression darkened, his smirk now razor-sharp. "Let us test that, shall we?" He stepped closer, his emerald eyes piercing into Tomas's. "Did you lay a hand on Kaguya?"

Tomas's sneer faltered for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure. "Of course not. She's lying."

A sharp crack echoed through the room as frost spiraled up Tomas's legs. He yelped in pain, the icy tendrils biting into his skin. Loki tilted his head, watching with dark amusement.

"Your lies will only make this worse," Loki said, his voice laced with mockery. "But do continue. You amuse me."

Tomas gritted his teeth, his face pale. "I didn't harm her!" he insisted. The frost climbed higher, encasing his thighs and creeping toward his chest. His breaths became shallow as the cold sapped his strength.

Loki leaned in, his voice a venomous whisper. "Did you strike her? Did you dare to touch what is mine?"

Tomas's resolve broke, his voice shaking. "Yes, I did! But she deserved it! She sullied herself by consorting with a Jotunn like you!"

The frost surged upward, engulfing Tomas's torso and leaving his arms immobile. Loki straightened, his expression unreadable, though his magic flared brighter than ever.

"A curious thing," Loki mused, circling Tomas like a predator. "You despise me for what I am, yet you are powerless before me. A man who claims superiority but trembles in the face of truth. Tell me, Tomas, do you still think yourself above me?"

Tomas's teeth chattered as the frost crept toward his throat. "You—Jotunn—are—nothing—"

Loki's laughter echoed coldly through the chamber, sharp as shattered glass. "Nothing, am I?" he said, his voice reverberating with power. He raised a hand, and the frost stopped just beneath Tomas's jaw.

With a flick of his wrist, the frost retreated slightly, leaving Tomas gasping for breath but still bound in icy chains. Loki leaned in close, his tone turning dangerously quiet. "You will leave Asgard tonight. You will never return. Should I hear even a whisper of your name, I will ensure you experience a pain that makes this seem like a gentle reprieve. Do I make myself clear?"

Tomas nodded frantically, his arrogance stripped away. "Yes, my king," he choked out, his voice trembling.

Loki straightened, brushing nonexistent dust from his robes. With a snap of his fingers, the frost shattered, and Tomas collapsed to the ground, trembling violently.

"Get him out of my sight," Loki commanded, his voice calm but icy. The Einherjar guards entered, dragging Tomas from the chamber. Loki watched them go, his expression unreadable, before the runes dimmed and the temperature in the room returned to normal.

As the door shut, Loki exhaled slowly, his rage still simmering beneath the surface. Tomas was dealt with, but his fury remained. Kaguya's name lingered in his mind, and he resolved to see her immediately.

No one touched what was his. No one.

XXX

Kaguya sat on a stone bench in the courtyard, her delicate fingers brushing absently across her lips. Her mind replayed the indignity she'd suffered at Tomas' hands, and though the physical pain had long faded, the emotional wound still burned fiercely. She stared into the fountain before her, the water's gentle ripples reflecting her turmoil. Her eyes were red and swollen from crying, and she hugged herself against the weight of the day.

"I shouldn't be here," she whispered, her voice barely audible. She closed her eyes, letting the sunlight fall over her face, though it offered no comfort.

The sound of measured footsteps drew her from her thoughts. Kaguya looked up to see Loki approaching, his dark robes swirling faintly in the light breeze. His hands were clasped behind his back, and his expression was unreadable, though his sharp green eyes softened as they fell on her.

"Kaguya," Loki greeted smoothly, his voice low and careful, as though not to startle her. "I've been looking for you."

Kaguya straightened, quickly wiping away the lingering traces of her tears. "Loki," she said, her voice trembling despite her efforts. "Is something the matter?"

Loki hesitated for a moment, then sighed, moving to stand beside her. "I might ask you the same question," he said softly, his tone unusually tender. "You've been avoiding everyone since…" He trailed off, his gaze flicking briefly to her lips before turning away. His jaw tightened.

Kaguya smiled weakly, though it didn't reach her eyes. "You don't have to worry about me. I'm fine."

"You're a terrible liar," Loki remarked dryly, folding his arms across his chest. "And I've had enough practice with lies to know one when I hear it."

She glanced at him sharply, but his expression held no malice, only a hint of wry humor. His gaze softened further, and he hesitated again before speaking.

"Tomas was dealt with," Loki said, his voice cool and controlled, though his eyes betrayed a lingering fury. "He will never hurt you again."

Kaguya looked down, her fingers clenching the fabric of her skirt. "Thank you," she murmured. "But… I still feel like I don't belong here."

Loki tilted his head, studying her for a long moment. "You don't belong here?" he repeated. "Kaguya, this realm is fortunate to have you. As am I."

She looked up at him, startled by his candor. "Loki—"

"Now, now, don't let his head get too big," came an amused voice from behind them. Loki's expression immediately shifted to one of irritation as Kakyuu strode into the courtyard, her red hair gleaming in the sunlight. She gave Kaguya a warm smile before turning a mischievous look on Loki.

"Kakyuu," Loki greeted tersely, his earlier vulnerability retreating behind his usual composed demeanor. "To what do we owe the pleasure?"

"Oh, don't mind me," Kakyuu replied with an exaggerated wave of her hand. "I simply couldn't resist seeing what had my brother-in-law pacing the halls like a caged wolf. And here you are, being all tender and gallant." She pressed a hand to her chest dramatically. "It's almost sweet."

Loki's jaw tightened, though a faint flush crept into his cheeks. "Must you always make a spectacle?" he muttered.

"Of course," Kakyuu said brightly, her grin widening. She turned to Kaguya, her teasing demeanor softening. "Are you all right, Kaguya? I saw what happened."

Kaguya nodded hesitantly. "I'll be fine," she said, though her voice wavered. Kakyuu reached out and squeezed her hand gently.

"You're stronger than you think," Kakyuu said warmly. Then, with a playful glance at Loki, she added, "And you've even managed to melt this one's icy heart. That's no small feat."

Loki groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Kakyuu, I am warning you—"

"Warning me? Oh, come now, Loki," Kakyuu interrupted, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "It's refreshing to see you care about someone other than yourself."

Kaguya couldn't suppress a small laugh, and Loki shot her a betrayed look. "Et tu, Kaguya?" he muttered, though there was no real anger in his tone.

Kakyuu clapped her hands together, clearly delighted. "I'll leave you two alone," she said, her tone suggestive. "I'm sure you have plenty to discuss."

"Kakyuu—" Loki began, but she was already strolling away, humming to herself.

As the courtyard fell silent again, Loki sighed heavily, pinching the bridge of his nose. "That woman," he muttered.

Kaguya gave him a small, genuine smile. "She's not wrong, you know," she said softly.

Loki raised an eyebrow at her, but his lips twitched into the faintest of smiles. "You're insufferable," he said, though his tone was devoid of venom.

"Thank you, Loki," Kaguya said, her voice sincere. "For everything."

For a moment, Loki said nothing, his expression unreadable. Then he inclined his head, his emerald eyes meeting hers with uncharacteristic warmth. "Always," he murmured.

XXX

Kaguya's excitement was palpable as she stepped into the grand Asgardian library for the first time, her soft gasp echoing through the vast chamber. The towering shelves stretched impossibly high, lined with ancient tomes and scrolls that glimmered faintly in the golden light streaming from the enchanted ceiling. The room was almost silent, save for the faint hum of magical wards protecting the priceless knowledge within.

Loki trailed behind her, watching her with growing intrigue. The library rarely had visitors, as Asgardians were not known for their scholarly pursuits. Most saw it as a relic, a place of little importance compared to the grandeur of the throne room or the training grounds. But Kaguya's reaction was unlike anything he'd ever seen.

Her eyes sparkled as she eagerly scanned the shelves, her hands brushing the spines of the books reverently. "This is incredible," she whispered. "I've never seen a collection like this. These are… these are spells from the first age of magic!" She turned to Loki, her expression alight with wonder. "Do you realize how rare this is?"

Loki's lips twitched into a smile, and for a moment, he looked almost bashful. "I may have had a hand in its curation," he admitted, his voice softer than usual. "Most of these were gathered or written by me."

"By you?" Kaguya's awe only deepened. She picked up a leather-bound volume and ran her fingers over the intricate runes etched into the cover. "Loki, this is extraordinary. I've read about these texts, but I never thought I'd get to see them."

Kakyuu, who had been quietly observing from the entrance, chuckled. "You've made his century, Kaguya. He's usually insufferable when it comes to sharing his work."

Loki shot his sister-in-law a sharp glare, though it lacked any real venom. "If you don't have anything useful to add, Kakyuu, feel free to leave," he retorted, though his attention quickly returned to Kaguya as she carefully opened the book in her hands.

"I could spend a lifetime here," Kaguya said breathlessly, already flipping through the pages. "Look at this! Binding spells, ancient alchemy formulas, elemental transmutation—it's all here!" She glanced up at Loki, her enthusiasm radiating from her like sunlight. "Where should I start?"

Loki's smile widened, and for a moment, he looked almost boyish. "I'll show you my favorites," he said, his voice tinged with excitement. He led her to a section tucked away in the back, where the books seemed to hum with latent energy. "These are spells of illusion and transformation. They've always been my specialty."

Kaguya picked up one of the books he indicated, her eyes scanning the text with eager intensity. "Your work is so intricate," she murmured. "The precision, the creativity—it's brilliant."

Loki felt a warmth spread through him at her words, an unfamiliar yet welcome sensation. No one had ever celebrated his magic like this. To most, it was a tool of mischief or a means to an end. But Kaguya… she saw it for what it truly was: an art form, a testament to his genius.

"You think so?" he asked, his voice quieter now, almost vulnerable.

"I know so," Kaguya replied, her tone firm. She looked up at him, her gaze unwavering. "Your magic is extraordinary, Loki. I've never seen anything like it."

Loki swallowed, his usually sharp wit failing him in the face of her sincere admiration. He turned away, pretending to examine another shelf, though a faint blush colored his cheeks. "You have excellent taste, clearly," he said, his voice regaining some of its usual slyness.

Kakyuu leaned against the nearest bookshelf, watching the exchange with a knowing smile. "You're practically glowing, Loki," she teased. "I didn't know you had it in you."

Loki shot her another glare. "Do you ever stop talking?"

"Not when it's this entertaining," Kakyuu replied with a grin.

Kaguya laughed softly, the sound light and melodic. She placed a hand on Loki's arm, drawing his attention back to her. "Thank you for showing me this," she said sincerely. "It means a lot."

Loki looked at her for a long moment, his green eyes unusually soft. "You're the first person to truly appreciate it," he admitted quietly. "That means a lot to me."

Kakyuu let out an exaggerated sigh. "All right, I'll leave you two lovebirds to your magic books. Try not to set the place on fire."

Loki rolled his eyes as Kakyuu sauntered out of the library, but a faint smile lingered on his lips. He turned back to Kaguya, who was already absorbed in another book.

"Shall we continue?" he asked, his voice lighter now.

Kaguya beamed at him. "Absolutely."

As they delved deeper into the library's treasures, Loki felt something stir within him—a warmth he hadn't known he was capable of. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly understood. And with every spell they discussed, every moment they shared, his affection for Kaguya grew stronger, as unstoppable as the magic that flowed through his veins.