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Thor. Hey. Hey. Heard you were hanging out in the city now.

This is Darcy btw.

Thor!! Assemble immediately by the portal! Wake up this instant, you great blonde moose!

[ Why is a tiny child yelling at Thor at 6am, well. Reasons. ]

[Although Thor is an early riser, he's also a heavy sleeper. 6am is not when his body clock commands to be filled with coffee, and he's buried into his pillow and snoring.

Few things can wake a man in this state, but a child screaming for attention seems to do the trick. He awakens with a snort, fumbling for his communicator and groggily taking in the screen name before he replies in a low voice.]

I had thought you were well past the phase of bodily changes in your journey to manhood. [A pause.] Again.

Very funny. Some nefarious sorcery from a fool of a wizard's world has locked onto me and shaved off ten years from my form. It's very distressing. I am officially distressed!

Come to the portal and meet with the other Avengers, round up your own to discuss the matter.

[While listening, Thor is already in the process of getting out of bed, despite the desire to call Loki a fool and flop back down onto his pillow.

Alas, he succumbs to brotherly concern, and he's starting to pull on a sweatshirt.]

If you're ten years younger, you could surely spare an hour for your weary elders. [He's yawning.] Some of us do not have the luxury of youthful vigor.

I will kindly slap the vigour into you if you tarry much more.

[ Please don't squash him. He is having A Day. ]

You should know better than anyone that you catch more flies with honey than.. [He considers it.] slaps.

Perhaps we should discuss this over breakfast, not portals. [There's fidgeting, as he slips jeans on over his boxers and finds a matching pair of shoes. He's pulling his bedraggled hair back into a clasp, since he doesn't particularly feel Loki is in dire need of assistance.

And he's still salty about his flasks. ]

... Very well. This smaller body does need to consume vast amounts of bacon in order to stay awake, I suppose, and I can't afford to weaken right now. [ And he forgot to have breakfast this morning after falling out of bed in shock. Loki names a cafe not far from the site of the portal. ] I'll order for both of us.

[ There may be a stack of bacon rolls and pancakes on the diner table whenever Thor arrives. ]

[Thor farewells Loki, and slows his roll somewhat now that he's been able to take Loki from crisis mode to concern mode with the mere concept of breakfast.

He gets dressed, pulls his hair back and heads down to the cafe promptly. It doesn't take him long to scan the cafe and lay eyes upon a very small Loki and a very big stack of food.

He invites himself to sit, and starts eating immediately.]

You changed your hair. [He observes, nonchalant to see if he can rile Loki up.]

It's a hood, stupid.

[ Huffing, he pulls off his circlet and yanks the hood down, revealing a flop of dark hair. Loki marvels, privately, at how much smaller he actually is than Thor like this, squashed into a body that once felt so foreign and now, thanks to the portal, does once again. ]

As you can see, things are dire.

It's still different.

[But he still grins when he makes Loki so frustrated. Loki had tricks, back in the day, but Thor was the intolerable one.]

Perhaps I like it better this way. You're much easier to pick up, it will keep you out of trouble.

[ Perhaps I like it better this way. His own Thor had felt the same, unable to so much as listen to Loki when he confessed to murdering the owner of the body in which he now sits. It hadn't even been a fight, simply one aggrieved god battering another in Loki's own home. No explanation or remorse could ever make them see eye to eye again.

He stops eating, appetite dwindling. The miserable look he wears intensifies and Loki chins a hand as he peers idly out the window of the diner. ]

I want to be myself again.

[It is a particular talent of Loki's to tug on Thor's heart strings. It works even better when he's small and sad, it makes Thor feel momentarily horrible despite not being remotely responsible for this.]

This shall pass, I am sure. I could not tell you how, but we will get to the bottom of it. [Thor reaches a fork out to push the food on Loki's plate.] You will not be as smart if you are not well fed.

I'm smarter than you, extra pancake or not. I think that's sufficient.

[ He picks at the food anyway, just to stop Thor messing around on his plate. ]

Then surely you do not need my assistance. [Thor raises a brow. As if he'd ever abandon Loki in a time of need.]

The fact I'm asking means nothing?

[ The gentlest guilt-trip. ]

The fact that you're asking is suspicious. [But he's laughing, so it's a joke, right?]

What do we know of the situation so far? Do we know the source?

[ When Thor returns to his room, he'll find a small black box sitting on the table. When he opens it, he'll find a pair of earrings, the same ones Frigga wore on Thor's coronation day. There are no answers, no chits of papers. ]

[Thor has no way to tell who gave these to him, but he suspects he knows too.

The earrings will stay in their box, in his top drawer next to his bed where he can keep them safe.]

[ After the . . . events that took place, Loki finds himself slipping into Thor's room unconsciously. He's not even sure why he's here. He feels . . .

He wanders the room, looking over Thor's things contemplatively. ]

[Thor's room isn't a disaster, but it isn't neat by any means. Most of his clothing is hung up, some of it is strewn over furniture. His hammer is on his bedside table and there are a few living plants this time around, in pottery he's taken care to purchase. Some magazines are on his desk, as well as trinkets from various festivals.

Thor isn't in his room, for the moment. He's in the kitchen, making himself a coffee and contemplating what he might do with the rest of his day.

For now, he has no plans beyond adjourning to his room with a drink and some gardening magazines. He hasn't given up on his hobby yet, but once he returns to his room he sees that he may have to put his reading on hold.

He doesn't interrupt Loki, he crosses into his room and sits on the edge of his bed, raising a brow at him.]

[ Loki wavers briefly before tentatively taking a seat besides Thor. Like he used to, he finds himself thinking before dismissing it. He doesn't make eye contact. ]

You do realize you no longer have servants to clean after you, correct?

If I'd known I'd have guests, I'd have put my clothing into the closet. [Thor says plainly, sipping his coffee. He isn't sure he wants to blatantly address the elephant in the room by asking what's wrong, but he's curious.]

Are you looking for something?

I am.

[ Loki rubs his hands together, an old but new habit born from his strange skin. There are times he's afraid to look at himself lest the illusion slips and everyone sees and everyone will know — abruptly he cuts off that train of thought, his nails digging into his palms. ]

I am . . . looking to know why you thought my return was better than no return at all.

[A long time ago, Thor would not have noticed anything peculiar about Loki's presence or his questions. Now? Thor notices the way he rubs his hands, the way he digs his nails, his tone and his uncertainty.

He'd rather zero in on nothing than miss another sign that Loki isn't faring well.]

Because you're my brother, and I love you. [And it does him no disservice to remind Loki.] What could possibly have happened that has you seeking reassurance from me?

It is not important.

[ And it really isn't. It could happen again. He's shaken but he's not surprised. What bothers him is the idea that deep down, Loki is weaving invisible plots. Plots even he cannot foresee or do. Perhaps in the end, he is trapped by his own nature. He can't do what Thor or everyone else does with ease. He can't slip into the mold and walk out a better person.

He exhales softly, like a deathly sigh. ]

I can't do it, Thor. I can't be like these people. I can't walk among them and simply . . . talk and share like they do. If I had it before, I lost it. And I do not think it will ever come back to me.

[Thor thinks the context is important, but he won't needle for information. He cares, but he's not the sort to pry. If he needs to know, he'll find out soon enough.]

It is difficult to be like anyone when all you do is search for differences. No two people are the same, you know that as well as I. [He gives him a gentle nudge.] Things rarely come as easily as they go, for that matter. It takes patience, and it comes and goes, but it happens.

[Of course, he relates a situation like that to trying to weave his brother back into his life.]

[ He doesn't want to do that to Steve. Or his other self. The blame was his for thinking that . . . Loki weaves his fingers together to keep from fidgeting. He still hasn't made eye contact. ]

If that was true — [ And Loki finally raises his head to meet Thor's eyes. ] — why can't I see it?

[Although Thor knows Loki is perfectly serious, he can't help but chuckle. He does meet Loki's eyes, and he smiles back at him.]

Change is almost always invisible when you're looking for it. Just because you cannot see it, does not mean that it isn't there. [Thor lifts his hand to squeeze Loki's shoulder.]

Those who know you will see it before you even realise yourself.

[ No matter how angry or enraged Loki might get with Thor, dismissing him has never been easy. There will always be a part of Loki that instinctively looks to his brother to have the answers he cannot find. He never forgets anything Thor might say, though he'll never admit it.

Deep down, it does make him feel better. As if someday — someday . . . ]

As always, you are miles ahead of me.

If you say such things, you'll have me worried.

[As if he isn't worried about Loki 24/7.]

Have I alleviated your concerns, or are you haunted by something still?

I was not concerned.

[ His tone is mildly petulant, but that's better proof that Loki is feeling better than anything else he might say. ]

I must have simply . . . stepped wrongly and I did not fully grasp it. I have not mingled with so many people for a long time.

Even the greatest socialites misstep- and social graces hardly run in our family. [Thor has a lot of friends, sure, but he doesn't have many close friends.]

You have all the charm you need, that I know, what you need to learn to step out of your mind.

My mind kept me safe.

[ For a definition of safe, obviously. And it clearly does not hold up to the strain of Loki's duality. ]

I'll not forego that for sentiment. I've learned my lesson.

Then sometimes safety must be forgone for something great. Even if it does not end where you had hoped it might.

[And trust him, he knows how that is.]

[ Loki knows that too, and his gaze flickers away from Thor. ]

My heart can't bear it. I'll shatter.

[ He's weathered too many losses to accept any more. But then . . . he chose Steve. He's willing to make it work. It might end up the same. With Loki dangling over the abyss. ]

You know advice is not my strength, Loki. If you want me to hit something- or someone- I'm sure it could be arranged.

[ Loki winces. That wouldn't end well for anyone. Running a hand through his hair, he considers his words carefully. ]

I have . . . started a private engagement with Steve Rogers. The, ah, other one.

[Thor's brow raises slowly. He doesn't want to look too surprised, but he is. Of course, he doesn't know the other Steve as well as he'd like, but it's still something to process.]

And you'd like for me to hit him? [He's sure that isn't what Loki wants, but he wonders why he seems so hurt.]

[ It takes all of Loki's patience not to sigh. ]

I'm well aware that you only speak with your fists but there is no need to hit him. And I'm surprised that conclusion came so swiftly. Is this not one of your cherished warrior kin?

Are you going to disregard all I have contributed thus far, then? [He used his words a lot just now for you, Loki!]

I've not fought along this Steve before. He is an ally of mine, yes, but you are my brother. [A pause.] Even if you are prone to dramatics.

[ That's true and Loki nods reluctantly to admit that, his fingers circling each other once more in a state of nervous energy. He looks pointedly at the wall. Perhaps someday, being brothers won't be enough. When he returns to Asgard, it's quite possible he might just go mad once more. His brief foray into being an alternate self seems to tell him one thing: That Loki is no good to Asgard. That the longer he's there, the more he wants what was denied. It'll never be enough and the chasm only deepens.

Deep down, Loki believes — or even hopes that Thor will return home. His illusion will be unmasked and Loki will die. His reign at an end. Maybe he's simply looking for an end instead of a long life full of yearnings that can never come to pass. ]

No one has hurt me.

[ His tone is oddly gentle, as if to placate Thor's worries. ]

I'm all right.

[ Though Loki knows that's a ticking clock. That's what brought him here. He needed to feel, at least briefly, that some sentiments stand still. And Loki hasn't destroyed everything even when he does not mean to. ]

[The gentleness of Loki's tone doesn't placate much for Thor, but it makes him relent more than anything.

Internally, his retort to Loki is that they have hurt him and he's not alright. What happened to Loki is a mess of mixed signals and opportunities. Nowadays, Thor doesn't take his bonds for granted.]

The offer stands. [He says plainly, then continues.] Does Rogers give you what you want? [Desire with every fibre of his being, was it?]

[ Loki doesn't know yet. It's too new, too bright to see the edges clearly, though Loki knows they are there. ]

He gives.

[ His smile is faint but wry. ]

I suppose I am taking a chance.

Then we shall see how it goes.

[He sounds neither skeptical nor hopeful, he's still wrapping his brain around it all.]

Is there anything else I can fail to assist you with?

[ Loki rises, brushing his pants lightly. He has already said more than he would have liked to. Certain fears still have him tightly in their grip after all. The madness may have abated minutely due to his absence from Asgard and all that Loki knew, but he never let go of his demons. ]

You did not fail me.

[ As angry as Loki is with Thor, as bitter as he might feel when Thor doesn't understand, Loki knows that much. Thor was not the one who did this to him.

And he knew Thor mourned. ]

Try to remember that, won't you?

[Momentarily, Thor is taken aback by the statement. It comes almost entirely out of left-field and though Thor has probably spent hours imagining just what he would do or say if this were ever a conversation he'd be having, he cannot help but be silent.

Eventually, he leans back into a more comfortable position with a warm, if not still somewhat bewildered smile.]

Oh I won't take it lightly. Reassurance from Loki himself is valuable, I know that better than anyone. [He reaches over to give him a light shove.] Regardless of anything, of what anyone says, I am happy to have you here with me.

[ For now, the whisper tells him. Loki must appear so genteel, so calm and normal. It makes his skin itch. He meant what he said and Thor does too. But everything is finite. Love, family, security. Even Thor. No matter what steps he might take, Loki has seen how quickly it can crumble.

So he gives Thor a jerky nod, his face hidden away from his brother's eyes as he leaves, seemingly vanishing from sight. ]

where are you? tehre are fireworks and you've gone missing. there's no way its a coicnidence

Missing from where, exactly? I am exactly where I should be.

[Chilling in bed.]

Don't let that stop you from holding me accountable.

from this shitty beach paryt!!! you were here like two seconds ago how do you find fireworks in two seconds!!!

[And then he actually looks at the name attached to this.]

oh

yuore not lup

No, I am not. Should I be? I don't know what a Lup is.

lup's my sister

this is taako

whoa re you?

[He's never texted Thor before.]

I am Thor. We met at the gala, as I recall.

Forgive me if this is a rude question but just how incredibly drunk are you?

thor, my dude! whats up

i am VERY incredibly drunk

And I was not invited? Have I slighted you?

were doing a sibling thing its a sacred ritaul

ill ivntie you next time i promise!!

So sacred that you've lost your sibling? No matter, I shall have to enlist Loki to inspire your envy.

Perhaps you have insulted me so terribly that I will never offer my company again.

[Doubtful, but he likes to make empty threats.]

i cuold find her but magic is hard :(

dont be a baby, missing one invite isnt gonna kill you

[rude as hell.]

How can you be so sure? You cannot presume to know my weaknesses.

if youre a god and your weakness is not being invited to shit thats pretty sad

Surely no sadder than being abandoned in my time of need.

time of need, huh? 😉

[ Again, Loki finds himself in his brother's room, idly occupying a spot on the couch. He looks . . . pretty awful, even for Loki. He's even slouching. But when everything seems to be spinning, Thor, at least, remains a solid presence in Loki's life. ]

[It isn't a common enough occurrence for Thor to be used to it, but he doesn't look surprised when he wanders in the room.

Loki may have waited a little while, Thor had been on shift in search and rescue and has only just returned. When he sees Loki, he approaches slowly and places Mjolnir on one arm of the couch, sitting next to Loki to watch him for a moment.]

You look awful. [What is Thor if not honest?]

[ Loki shrugs in a laconic manner. Loki can vacillate from talking one's ear off to brooding and silent. He's always had many moods and they easily slide into each other. But this time, Loki feels eerily still like he's afraid to speak, to admit why he's here. After all, what would he say?

Loki does not think he could bear it if Thor called this matter of the heart an imagined slight. ]

. . . Was I foolish?

[Thor can imagine several scenarios that might inspire a reaction like this, but he has a feeling he already knows what may have happened.

He wants to be nothing but encouraging, of course, but he'd been a little wary about the match from the start. He cannot say he knows that Steve terribly well, however, so he'd given it the benefit of the doubt.

He'll still play dumb, for Loki's sake.]

Many times, yes. Is there a particular circumstance you're referring to?

No. Not particularly.

[ His head is a mess. He's tried to do things the Asgardian way and failed. Tried the path of a monster and that failed too. His new strange thing that he tried with Steve . . . it has not failed, but Loki isn't sure how he feels about his attempts. Getting Steve to open up only to have Steve kiss another man does not imbue Loki's new tries with confidence. He wraps his arms around himself, resisting the urge to simply curl into himself. ]

Apparently I'm so good at being helpful, I encouraged Steve to find himself in someone else.

He was unfaithful?

[Thor is genuinely curious when he asks. Steve, in any iteration, doesn't seem the type for that. His concern grows, but that Loki is here and not somewhere with a knife and a purpose is a good sign. For now.]

Was it.. explicit... that you were to be exclusive with one another?

[ Loki's shoulders hunch. It feels like a sting that they never really chose to define it. That they never gave it a title or made it more public. At first Loki enjoyed that because it was private and it was safe. No one needed to know more. But Thor's words make him feel like . . . he was some dirty secret. That maybe, despite everything, Steve was just ashamed of him.

But Loki pushes it aside for now. It wasn't the only part and Loki isn't here to paint Steve as the villain. It might be tempting, but it won't help the chasm in his head right now. ]

No. I suppose it wasn't. I doubt it ever will be. Why make room for me?

Don't take this the wrong way, brother, but are you being dramatic? [He quirks a brow.]

He may not have thought to slight you, merely he assumed he would be free to mingle while cultivating what he has with you. [He has no idea, though.] Do you know who he kissed?

[ Sadly, saying something akin to "do not take this the wrong way" already has his hackles rising. Suddenly Loki felt foolish and angry with himself — for believing that Thor could ever be helpful in this matter. That Loki deluded himself over the easy sentiment that had passed by them recently. The urge to lash out is almost volcanic in nature and he uncoils like a whip, bitterness filling his eyes as he rises from his seat. His back is ramrod straight. ]

I know.

As you say, Thor. Clearly I am being dramatic.

[ Maybe he should have settled for setting a forest on fire. He should have stuck with the basics. ]

[Thor has pushed Loki's buttons enough to expect certain reactions, but he's still a little surprised by the venom in Loki's response. He supposes he'd been feeling a little more vulnerable than Thor had given him credit for, though it's fair to say that Thor may not be taking it all seriously enough.

It's a little beyond his abilities. But he's not about to let Loki storm off, not when having him come here of his own volition is equal to that of winning the trust of an animal you've fed morsels of food.

He grabs Loki by the back of his shirt and tugs him down hard so he comes down onto the couch, then he wastes no time moving trying to pin his skinny legs down so he can't escape again.]

You look no less dramatic trying to storm off on me, you know. [He gives him a stern look.] Have patience. I'm no expert in these matters either, surprising as it may be. Elder brother or not. Now, tell me who it was.

Edited 2017-08-27 08:03 (UTC)

[ Loki snarls, trying to shift Thor's weight off his legs but to no avail. He settles for digging his fingers into the soft cushions for he knows that the urge to lash out, to hurt is high and he rather not start that kind of fight. Not when his head and heart was pounding. ]

What difference does it make? It's all in my head, is it not? My imagined slights, making up wounds and stories where there is nothing. No one owes me anything.

[ Even as Loki says it, his look grows more pinched. The last thing he wants is to know it is in his head. A product of his madness. ]

It makes no difference. It is for my own interest. [Although it's not necessarily true that it doesn't make a difference, Thor is trying to be honest. Context will shed some light on the situation, but he's honestly curious too. He hadn't thought of Steve as the sort for this sort of romance, let alone two of these sorts of romance. At once.]

It's not wrong to feel slighted if your expectations were not met, but it is not wrong to disregard expectations if you had no idea they existed. [He's trying not to play too heavily into Loki's self-victimization, he's just trying to rationalise. Odd, for him.]

I must admit, I'd not thought Rogers the sort of man you'd need to request exclusivity from.

[ Unconsciously, Loki relaxes minutely after Thor's response. He had feared greatly that Thor's response would come down like a hammer and Loki would simply feel worse. Like grime under his fingernails. Or responsible for the grime. Granted, he's always been a glutton for punishment. Asking for answers that have never served his peace of mind. ]

I feel like a fool.

[ It's an echo of his words back on Svartalfheim, tired and parched. ]

He kissed Stark. He told me he loved me and kissed Stark all in the same breath. It was like — [ Loki cuts himself off abruptly. It was like hearing Odin talk again. Of how he wanted to use Loki and be his son. One and the same. ]

I am a fool and I'm tired, Thor. So I let it go. Does that help your peace of mind?

[ Loki has no illusions that Thor will play peace-keeper. Hope his brother doesn't enact his revenge. He is not wrong and Loki has no problem affirming as such. ]

Everyone feels a fool in romance. There's no romance without some amount of.. [He gestures vaguely for the word.] ..vulnerability.

[Thor shrugs his shoulders at Loki's question, he's not sure what he expected his response to be.]

I can't say I saw it coming, but I've never been particularly good at predicting this sort of thing. [Apparently.] Did you feel there was no use fighting for it, then? Did Rogers make his choice?

I fought.

[ It comes out as a whisper, but still defiant. Loki fought and no one can strip that away from him. Not this time. ]

We will . . . as they say, play it by ear. Should he choose to pursue Stark completely, well . . . what I got is more than I hoped for.

[ It's been a whirlwind for them both. Loki isn't going to fool himself into believing that Steve would ever love him completely. Love him only. No one has been capable of doing that anyway. He'll always want more. That is his nature. But he can settle for scraps too. That much, Asgard has taught him.

Quietly, Loki runs his hand through his hair. He can't shake off the shade of foolishness and stupidity that hangs over his head. That his lackluster attempt at starting something new failed so badly. That it hurts even now, even when Steve and Loki settled it between them. That it is not ruined.

Perhaps he came to Thor because Thor always helped him believe there were other options. ]

I should go. I've taken up enough of your time with these matters.

You're a strange man, you know. You want for the best, but you hope- nay, expect the worst.

[Thor lifts his legs so Loki isn't pinned under him anymore. He's not as worried as he might have been a few months ago, he doesn't expect Loki will fly into a rage or scheme against Stark.

Although, part of him wonders if the fact that he doesn't expect is something to be concerned about in itself. Maybe because the defeated, downtrodden reaction is cause for deeper concern. Maybe because he should always be a little prepared for a sinister reaction.]

You're welcome to go, if you like. You're welcome to stay, too. I do nothing productive with my time, as I'm sure you know.

Your father made it clear my birthright is nothing, so such a contradiction is normal.

[ Loki rises, a sardonic twist to his lips. The sensation of being foolish hasn't lifted from his shoulders and he regrets coming here. Coming to Thor. He just feels worse than before. Perhaps it's time Loki took his own advice and let Thor go. He exhales quietly. ]

Goodbye Thor.

[ With that, he slips into the shadows, vanishing from sight. ]

[It takes him a while to send this, swinging back and forth over whether or not it's a good idea, but in the end his concern wins out. If Loki finds out he did this and gets mad about it, that'll suck, but it's better than doing nothing]

I'm worried about Loki. This shit going on isn't easy for anyone, but he's taking it hard

[There's a part of Thor that feels touched to be considered as a point of contact where Loki is concerned, there's another part of him that worries if he would make the situation worse simply by involving himself.

He won't leave Taako in the lurch, however.]

What in particular has you concerned?

[How to put this delicately? Because that's not really Taako's strong suit.]

He seems... shaky

[Like he's unravelling.]

He's not been well since mother appeared. It's been trying, I imagine. To be confronted with things he would rather forget.

But I think he can move past it, and I don't say that lightly.

I get that you know him better than I do

But I'm not so sure and I don't know how to help, everything I say seems to make it worse

I don't mean to sound unhelpful, but anything that sounds remotely like something I would say is not what he wants to hear.

Not from me, at least.

That said, I feel persistence may be key. Even if it seems unappreciated.

[He knows, logically, that Thor and Loki have their issues, but it's still hard for him to conceptualize the fact that he can't just... make Loki feel better by virtue of being his sibling.]

Yeah, I guess

I'll keep trying

He won't say it, but he's happier here than he would be anywhere else.

This is difficult for him, to be sure, but I'd wager he's more concerned with the notion that he will lose you.

Pretty sure I'm low on the list of concerns right now

I'm not being selfdeprecating or anything here cause I don't fuck with that shit I just mean like, I don't think he's coping at all. He seems fractured

Mm, perhaps not now then. But in the aftermath, it will be his concern.

What do you mean by fractured?

[Taako doesn't bother responding to the first part, because as far as he's concerned its not a concern, and telling Thor won't change anything. He can handle Loki being shitty and angry, because Loki's handled the same from him. That's just how things go sometimes and if he needs to remind Loki of that after all this, that's fine.]

Like there's an edge of fucking hysteria in his laugh and it freaks me out

I don't want you to think I'm not concerned, because I am. But that isn't uncommon for Loki. Particularly in times of duress.

He shuts down when he cannot handle things, but he picks himself back up. He will pick himself up even better now with friends.

[It really isn't that reassuring, but Thor has known Loki for centuries, so he kind of just has to hope the dude knows what he's talking about.]

I'm shit at this, but if you think there's anything I can do, tell me, yeah?

I'm not the best, either. Not where Loki is concerned.

Just be there for him. Be present. You seem to understand him well enough.

[Yeah, he's noticed, but he's not enough of a dick to point it out.]

Us selfish assholes have gotta stick together

I didn't take you for a selfish asshole. Maybe I should get to know you better.

Oh, my dude, I would throw everyone on this shitty moon under the bus if it meant saving my own skin

[Everyone except the IPRE, but that goes without saying]

Saying and doing are two very different things.

You don't need to impress your selfishness upon me, Taako. I'll find out when it matters, and I will cuff you 'round the ears as I do Loki.

Edited 2017-10-31 23:52 (UTC)

It's cute that you think I'd let you 😏

It's cute that you think you can stop me.

You remember I'm a wizard, right?

You remember that I am the God of Thunder, yes?

I fought the apocalypse and won, not sure if a god is that scary anymore ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

I fought Loki and won. You are not beyond my reach, wizard.

If you wanna go we can go, it's been fucking ages since I've had a decent fight

I feel like we were talking about something more important than petty squabbles about power.

Who am I kidding? Yes. I'll fight you.

I can multitask

Are we laying some ground rules for this cause like, I think Loki's gonna be mad if either of us get killed?

It goes without saying that death is off the table.

I wouldn't be so cruel as to damage your face, for that matter. I'm fond of it.

Flattery won't make me go easy on you but it is appreciated

First to go down or first to yield? I've got a stash of healing potions so like, I can take the damage

I eat damage for breakfast.

First to go down. No fake yields.

Alright, Magnus

You've got a deal, but I've got shit on this week. Start of the new month, we can welcome it with a fucking showdown?

Agreed. Provided I don't come down with another case of quarantine induced amnesia.

I can arrange that for you during the fight, if you want :)

[Can he do that?

Yes]

It will hurt no less when I strike you.

If you strike me

You'll have plenty of time to taunt me later. Is there anything else I can assist with, or do you have other people to solicit advice and battles from?

I guess I better let you start preparing 😉

Hey dude! So there's this costume party thing I wanna go to soon, can I borrow your cool armor for it??

That depends, are you going dressed as me?

That depends. Would that be weird?

You wouldn't be the first, though you'd be the first to wear my armor.

Will it fit?

[Does he have the nerve to imply Magnus is Less Swole? Yes, yes he does.]

[No worries; Magnus has come to terms with not being the swolest person in Riverview.]

Might be a little loose, but I can manage.

Wait, is someone else already gonna be you at this party?? Because if that's the case I'll be the better one.

Not that I know of, but I am something of a celebrity back on Earth.

[You can almost read the smugness.]

If it fits, it's yours for the night.

HELL YEAH

I owe you one, dude!

That you do. I'll let you know when I know what I want.

Will you do me a favour and write to my brother? A letter I may keep in case he arrives here with us and you are gone.

Your brother as in your Thor? [Well, duh. It seems safe to clarify, however.]

I'd be happy to tell him to stop ruining my reputation across dimensions, but I can take requests. For you.

Well, I don't mean Balder.

Thanks. [ Curious, he asks, ] What do you know of him already?

That he's an ass. [Straight to the point.] Cold, unapproachable and violent. Seems a step in the wrong direction, I suppose.

What do you want me to tell him?

[ Seems legit. ]

To give me a chance to explain myself so that I might make amends. He won't listen to me but I'm certain he would hear out another Thor, albeit begrudgingly.

You left on poor terms, didn't you? [That's one way to put it.]

I'll do it. With any luck, we still share the need to keep our brothers in our lives.

He was ... very angry, yes.

[ To awkwardly understate things. ]

That's kind of you. If you could perhaps point out that, ah, sometimes his brother has schemes he can't undo so he navigates them as best he can, but then other times he can't help them once they're set in motion and all that is left is to regret the outcome .... And maybe Loki does awful things, truly, but he didn't mean to once he realised what he was doing in hindsight and would rather have not have, you know, because ... because he's not the type to expect forgiveness, just an ear to hear him out, he knows what he did was very wrong ...

Um, that angle could prove useful.

[Thor can't help letting out a soft chuckle, though he takes this job very seriously.]

If all of that doesn't work, maybe I can remind him that his brother is surprisingly endearing for a trickster.

But if I'm still here, should he ever arrive, I'll clip him around the ear instead.

[ Chewing on his lip anxiously as he tries not to feel too fondly for this Thor, not when the other Loki has pointed out he is very much taken, a strangled noise squirms out of his throat in protest as he pictures two Odinsons battling. ]

Please don't do anything to make him madder than he is. He would think you an impudent boy, you are so much younger. Easily tricked, even.

And then he would truly let rip.

Younger, faster and less senile. Hm. I concede that a fight between Thors may not be a wise move, but I'm not easily tricked.

[Firmly. Stubbornly.]

I'll give him the cold shoulder then. That should really drive my disdain home.

Of course. You have a hammer and he does not, I leave the method entirely down to you ...

We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

[He really hopes he never needs to. He doesn't ever want to see his future, he feels becoming that Thor is almost inevitable. He can't be young and enthusiastic forever. He already feels it wane from time to time.

But, like someone who ignores the early signs of illness, Thor opts to push the feelings down and act merry as ever.

His voice is warm and cheerful.]

I know we don't talk nearly enough, but should you ever need anything else, I consider you my brother too.. [The invitation is vague, but open.] I'm here.

Edited 2017-10-24 13:18 (UTC)

[ It is nice to pretend sometimes that this is his own brother, in moments that the other Loki can't touch. Possessive, desperate little snippets of weakness. ]

The sentiment stands. Thank you.

[ And he ends the call. ]

[A day or two after, Thor finds a way to slip an envelope onto Loki's pillow. It's sealed and addressed to Thor.

It took a lot of willpower not to add The Other before his name.]

[[ooc: The IPRE are throwing a dinner party at Casa Del Taaco! There will be a mingle going up November 18, which characters will know by the enchanted countdown on the invite (once it hits zero, illusory glitter will burst from the invite and Taako's voice will tell them that they're running late). The theme is speakeasy but characters are free to be relatively loose with it, just have fun! If your character would want to bring a plus one, please let their player know (you can let me know too if you’d like) so they can join in on the mingle when it goes up.

If you have any questions feel free to hit me up!]]

[ooc: continued from here]

[It hasn't escaped Bryn's notice that the tone of their interactions has changed over the months they've known each other. What started as a light and harmless fling has become something more substantial. It's more than a friendship but not an official romantic relationship. There's feelings there, Bryn isn't so heartless that she couldn't come to feel something for Thor after all the time they've been together, but it's still very much in a nebulous place. If there's a discussion to be had, however, Bryn isn't going to be the one to prompt it. He knows what she wants out of her life and...if he isn't going to volunteer to take things in a direction, she will content herself with what they have. Which is nothing to sniff at, not in the least.

Not with the sweet words and the soft touches, and the way their lives seem to have come together almost seamlessly.

She leans into the warmth of his hand, reaching up to cover it with her own, and accepts the fact that Thor would rather enjoy his victory, fraught as it was, than sink into all that happened. She reaches for him, hands smoothing down lightly over his armor.]

I don't mind being the object of your complete and unwavering focus...but I think I could hold your attention better if all of this wasn't in the way. Show me how to take it off?

[Thor has felt himself feel something gradually stronger for Bryn fairly steadily over the course of their relationship. It doesn't surprise him, really. He knows himself, he knows he's a romantic guy.

In a way, holding himself back from rushing in has made it all the better. He knows her on levels more intimate than just sex. He knows her hopes and her fears, and she knows his.

The things that have held him back have slowly become less and less important. It's almost like he's tricking himself, spending so many days and nights with her, letting his thoughts drift to her, finding reasons to be around her.

That she makes him so happy is something he truly values now, more than anything.

He smiles down at her.]

It's complicated. [He admits, he holds her hand and lifts it to one of the circles, covering her hand with his, he twists it and it unscrews. The top section of his armor and cape lifts off easily, leaving him with his armored vest under.

He turns so his back faces her, lifting his hair up and revealing a small row of ties. It's like a less fitted corset.]

[Bryn isn't a stranger to armor, though Asgardian seems to be more similar to some of the older armor of Kouhyar than the modern Kouhyaran armor and gear she's used to back home.

Most of it is easy enough to get the hang of once the cape is off, however. Bit by bit, she follows his instructions, starting first with the ties. Her fingers are smaller, but strong, nimble enough to make easy work of the fastenings.

And every so often she steals a look up at him, and smiles a little.]

If I had been born two or three hundred years earlier in my country's history, this might be more instinctive to me. All of my gear uses buckles and zippers, maybe velcro. It feels a little like dipping back in time, doing this for you now.

[She rather likes it. It's like unwrapping a very tall, very delectable warrior gift that's hers and hers alone, and the intimacy of doing this for him feels akin to washing his hair or treating his wounds.

Wounds which Bryn realizes now could be an actual factor tonight. Brows drawing together, she looks him over.]

You don't need any healing tonight do you, bhesher?

[The word is one that Bryn has used before, an Askoupuran equivalent for darling, but it's always been teasing before. Said with a wink, a smile, or maybe in the same tone that Taako uses when he calls her pumpkin. Tonight it's softer, warmer. As if perhaps it holds meaning tonight it didn't used to.]

We never did get the hang of zippers.

[Asgard is advanced in many ways, but set deeply in tradition. They excel and thrive in many areas, but quite often they live by the phrase if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Thor sought to bring that way of life across all realms, long ago. Now he's seen everything Midgard has to offer, he wonders why they thought themselves to superior.

The act of being undressed is intimate. It's a little more special when it's not a servant, there's something meaningful about it when it follows a battle.]

Some scrapes along my shoulders from that tree, I think. [They sting a little, but not too badly.] I'll heal overnight.

[Once the draws are untied, Thor can slip his vest off over his head in one piece. He does have a few scratches, but it looks more like he fell off a bike and less like he was slammed into a tree.]

I'll be fine, min elskede. [His voice is soft in turn. He lifts a thumb to draw over her bottom lip, he looks amused at the way she worries.]

[There's something to be said for the heartiness of Asgardians. Thor may once have claimed to not be a god but he's certainly long-lived and far more durable than any man she knows. He may throw himself into dangerous battles, but of the two of them she has far less to worry about with him and his chance of emerging unharmed.

The scrapes, when revealed, give her cause to frown, and she half considers drawing her dagger from its sheath once more to use her fledgling powers as she had to Taako. It's only when he speaks again to reassure her that he'll find that she lets the idea go. The endearment, the touch of his thumb to her lip is enough to distract her. Gaze settling on his, she opens her mouth and gently sets her teeth into the meat of his thumb, only exerting enough pressure to be felt rather than to hurt. After a moment, she releases it with the barest flick of her tongue.]

Alright then. [She'll let it go, and instead turns her attention back to undressing him. Her hands smooth over his chest, finding the familiar planes with ease and lingering there as if it might soothe some part within them both.] I think you'll need to stand for the rest.

[Thor does find comfort in it. Her hands are warm and soft on his chest and it makes the connection between them more apparent.

He wraps one of his hands over hers, and it easily engulfs it. He stands on command, ready for her to do what she must to get him naked.]

I trust you know what you're doing.

[Her hand lingers on his chest, even as he stands. She stays where she is beside him, not rising right away but rather using that opportunity to hook her fingers beneath the band of his trousers. Exerting a little pressure, she holds him there, hand still on his bare skin as she rises up against him.]

If I don't by now then we definitely have a problem.

[With another couple, perhaps one without such a drastic height difference, it might be easier for the shorter party to lean up to steal a kiss. Even with Thor looking down at her, however, Bryn can't quite reach him even on her toes. She directs her efforts elsewhere instead, hand sliding out from beneath his to join the other at his pants, all while her lips press to his chest. Eyes closing she slowly, carefully mouths kisses at his skin, hands working carefully by touch to unfasten his pants.

It takes her only moments, and as they're loosened she doesn't simply let them drop, but rather carefully draws them down his legs until they can pool at his ankles. Gently tugging at the hem of his undergarments, she draws those down as well, leaving him bare from head to toe. There's no hiding the sound that rises at the back of her throat as she presses against him, soft and rough as she savors the warmth of his body and the feel of him bared against him.]

I think I'd like you to sit for me. [Not lay down, but sit, propped up against the pillows that she gestures to behind her.] I can undress myself, unless you have the pressing desire to handle that.

[Her hands in the mere vicinity of his pants is enough to make them tent ever so slightly. He has absolutely no shame in that, she's attractive and he knows what's about to happen here.

His pants drop, and the breeze is momentarily uncomfortable before she closes the distance between them. It makes the warmth of her body all the more comfortable and his arms circle around her, running up and down her back. He's getting harder between them, so it's as good a time as any to step back and sit on the bed again.]

I'll be happy to watch.

[He says, with a perfectly innocent smile. He sits back into the cushions, comfortable to be naked as the day he was born. His hands fold over his stomach and he pulls one knee up, on the side that doesn't obscure his erection from view.]

[If ever there was a moment to remind Bryn of how right it was for her to decide to settle in here in Riverview, seeing Thor naked and hard on her bed, looking up at her that way is that moment. Eyes darkening with her own arousal, Bryn decides to balance the line between making a show of stripping down and just getting it over with. It's the best she can do when she wants to please him but finds her patience wears thin tonight.

So she turns toward the small shelf she's bolted into the wall and carefully lifts her shirt up and over her head. Her hair falls down her bare back as she leaves the shirt on the shelf. Bryn half turns, watching him over her shoulder as her hands move to the front of her pants. They unfasten easily, but Bryn takes her time easing them down over her hips, half bending so he sees her ass to advantage. Once more, she doesn't simply let them drop but rather bends over at the waist to draw them down to her ankles, and then steps out of them to pick them up and put them with her shirt. Only then does she turn back toward him to let him see her front, bare-breasted and down to nothing but her panties. The peaks of her breasts are stiff in the open air, and her nipples tighten as she locks eyes with him and carefully removes the last piece of clothing.

With a sway of her hips she approaches him on the bed, looking quite pleased with herself.]

Stay just like that for me... [Bryn eases herself down to the bed and crawls forward, on hands and knees until she's nestled between his legs, cheek pressing against his thigh.] Would you be happy to continue watching me, Thor?

[In truth, it doesn't matter how fast or how slow she strips, so long as Thor can see her body. He likes the little tease he gets, it's just enough to rile him up without making him too antsy.

He watches, enraptured by her form as she reveals more and more of it to him. He loves her body. He loves smoothing his hands over her dips and curves. He loves how soft she feels against his calloused hands. She seems to fit perfectly against his body, despite being so small in comparison.

His smile grows as she approaches. He's long since given up on trying to be cool and suave in the bedroom. He's warmer, more approachable and less adverse to showing his eagerness.]

I could watch you all day. [He observes, reaching down to trace his fingers over her hair.]

[Bryn leans into the stroke of his fingertips, eyes closing briefly as she hums, but her hands are moving. Both settle at his knees, and slide up his thighs to settle on either side of his cock. She turns her head to kiss the skin of his leg bent up, and then skips down to between her hands.

After all these months she's well acquainted with the size and shape of him, but it doesn't mean she's any less enthused to touch him. Her lips press gently to the base of his cock, warm at one side of him as her hand slips in to grasp him just below the head. Lips parting, she mouths at the skin, tongue slipping and flicking out to tease him a little even as she moves below him.

She groans, savoring the taste of him, and opens her eyes to watch his face. Her mouth opens wider and she sucks at him, curls her hand a little tighter around him as she dips low. Her tongue darts out to draw over his sack before rising higher up the length of his shaft. She wonders idly how much patience he has if she wants to take her time with him...]

[The anticipation is almost dizzying. Thor watches Bryn's every move carefully, eager eyes fixed on her as she moves in. The moment her lips touch his skin, he closes his eyes and sighs with pleasure.

He opens his eyes halfway to watch her still, lips parted as he lets out slow, heavy breaths. She earns a gratifying sound from the back of Thor's throat when her tongue grazes over his sack and her lips find the base of his cock.

Thor is an extremely impatient person, but he knows some things are worth waiting out. Of course, it helps when you have superhuman endurance and going a second round is almost never out of the question.

His hand slips down so his fingers can thread gently into her hair, wanting to maintain some contact between them.]

[Bryn welcomes the touch of his hand, the way his fingers find their way into her hair. She welcomes everything about this, really. Thor lounging in her bed, a massive presence of strength and confidence, her kneeling before him to lavish him in attention...

Her lips part as she exhales, and as she holds her gaze on his, Bryn presses the broad head of his cock inside her mouth. Lips sealing around him she sucks gently to start, tongue sweeping over him within her mouth with a groan of her own. Bryn closes her eyes and carefully presses more of his length deep inside her mouth, sliding him along the flat of her tongue as she continues to suck and lick her way down.

She likes easing into things like this, teasing him at the start, taking it slow just to stimulate him.

But as she gets a feel for him again and the angle she's at, Bryn starts to work him over with more intent. She drags her wet lips up his shaft again just to the head, and then sinks down once more, hand cupping him, stroking him at the base as her eyes open once more. Because part of why she asked him to sit like this is so that she can see his face above her while she pleasures him.]

[While Thor might represent strength and confidence, Bryn is a vision of beauty and seduction. It doesn't take her long to empty Thor's mind of his dark thoughts and fill it with nothing but affection for her.

His hips twitch with the desire to roll forward, but he refrains. His fingers tighten and clench in her hair, but they never pull, not yet. He can be rough with her, and he knows it, but he's craving delicate touches between them.

Thor groans her name, pleasure creeping from every corner of his body. His face is a vision of ecstasy right now. His brows are furrowed, but his eyes are half open and clouded from the mounting high he's feeling.]

[It's hard not to get swept up in his reactions. She'd meant to linger over him, to take her time teasing and nibbling at him, to lick and suck little bits of him until he begged her for more...but he groans her name and his hands stroke through her hair. She feels him reacting beneath her and Bryn wants to drive him higher.

Her movements grow more certain, less tentative. There's no roughness, no undue speed, but she grasps the base of him with one hand as the other cups him from below. Her hands squeeze and massage him as her mouth covers his cock and begins to rise and fall over it. She keeps her lips sealed tight around his shaft and lets her tongue swirl over the head of him with groans of her own, mimicking the rhythm they find together all too often.

Her cheeks cave in gently as she sucks at him, head bobbing over the thick length of his cock, eyes closing for the moment as she focuses on using every trick she knows to drag every last sound and movement out of him.]

[Thor is not a tight-lipped person at the best of times. He's endlessly expressive, and he has no reason to keep his sensations under wraps. Thor lets his head tilt back, hair dragging behind him on the pillow as he groans at the ceiling.

His heels dig into the mattress and his hips shift upward slowly, not enough to be intrusive but enough to look a little too eager.

His pleasure is rapidly mounting, there's no obligation to draw it out but he wants to feel every second of it that he can. He bites into his lip, breath shuddering as he pushes through the urge to finish already.]

[She could drag this out. She could pull her lips away and return to soft kisses. Drag her lips over him, mouth at his sack and do everything but bring him to climax. Another night she'd be tempted to give his cock the worship it deserves even at the cost of his patience.

But she has little of her own and rather thinks after everything that's happened he deserves to have this without teasing or torment. He's close, or at least close enough that she knows she can get him there. Groaning, she sucks at him with just the right amount of pressure to give him resistance but not too much in the soft, wet space of her mouth. Her lips slide up and down his shaft with ease as her hand works him at the same time.

Eyes opening once more, she uses her other hand to grips his thigh, and the look she gives him couldn't be more clear. She wants him, and she wants this, and she's not going to stop until he's found his release just as they are now.]

[Thor's eyes meet Bryn's, and he instantly knows what she means. He could draw it out as long as she could, but she's right in assuming he'd prefer something short and sweet rather than something agonizingly slow.

So, Thor willingly lets himself slip. He lets himself get lost in the thrums of pleasure she's sending up his cock, up his body and into his middle. It doesn't take much more than a few more slides of her lips to get him over the edge.

He's courteous enough to grunt in warning, but his fingers thread tightly in her hair anyway. His grip is lenient if she wants to pull back, but it's the last sensible thought he can manage before everything is a haze of absolute ecstasy. Thor moans, loud and shameless, his hips jerking upward when he finishes.]

[The warning is appreciated, but not as much as the way his fingers tangle in her hair. He holds her firmly, and Bryn relaxes into it, savoring the sound of his moan and working with the rising, jerking thrust of his hips as he comes in her mouth. She feels the pulse of his cock at her lips and lets his seed slide down her throat with a groan of her own.

For a moment after she just rests there, lips wrapped around his cock still thrust deep into her mouth. There's something glorious about feeling him lose control between her lips, something satisfying on a personal level. Her eyes open to meet his as she carefully slides him out of her mouth and climbs up beside him with a satisfied purr.]

Mm, that was a nice start.

[Thor's breathing is still laboured when Bryn moves up to be closer to him. He smiles through his panting and eventually finds a more even cycle of breathing.

He lifts his hand to brush her hair out of her face, fingers grazing over her cheek gently. His expression is completely enamored, he's entirely preoccupied by her presence. It's as if they're the only two people in the world when he looks at her like that.]

Your turn? [He asks, as if it's a question, leaning to press a kiss to her cheek and mutter in her ear.] Why don't you come a little closer?

[Thor pats his stomach, to start with.]

[She doesn't need any convincing. If he says it's her turn, by all means let it be her turn, and upon his encouragement she swings a leg over his body and moves to straddle his stomach directly. It puts her above his cock which is no doubt still recovering from his first climax, and well below his mouth which he's currently using to speak with her.

Running a hand over his chest, she smiles, hips rocking gently against his bare body. With a lick of her lips she continues.]

Is this close enough for you? Or should I get closer for my turn?

[She's not entirely in a hurry, having seemingly taken the edge off by bringing Thor to climax rather than herself.]

You're fine where you are.

[He assures, because once she's on his body it's easy enough to place his hands on her waist lift her upward, lowering her over his face so that she can position her legs as she likes.

He presses a kisses up the inside of her thigh, watching her as best he can from this angle. His hands slide up her thighs and sides before they meet around the back of her to squeeze her rear.]

[There are things that Bryn happens to love about being with Thor, and him blatantly taking advantage of her size with his inhuman strength is near the top of the list. It's not the first time he's manhandled her, gently or otherwise, but she can't really get enough of it, especially when he does something like lift her up and lower her over his face like this.

Her own cheeks burn as she braces herself above him, shivering at once as his mouth finds her thigh and works it's way up. Eyes closing, she leans over the edge of the wall that closes in the sleeping area of her loft and swallows.]

Deities, what did I do in a past life to deserve you... [Her body arches at the grasp of her rear and she reaches down with one hand to thread her fingers through his hair.]

[Something about the way Bryn says deities gets him every time. It's unique to her, but it's almost always said in praise to him. He can't help but feel a little honored every time she whispers it to him.

If he could talk, he'd tell her that she deserves him for this life and this life alone. He has no time for romantic expressions of respect, not when she's bearing down on him like this. His tongue glides over her lower lips, slowly and savoring the chance to tease her before he presses his tongue more firmly against the peak of her anatomy. He traces his tongue over her clit, just gentle and light enough to tease her more.]

[Though Thor could absolutely handle her gripping his hair tightly, and has in the past, for the moment Bryn manages to control herself, grasping gently at the back of his head as his mouth opens further to draw his tongue up. She makes a brief, soft sound at the back of her throat, trying to stay steady...

But the way he licks at her clit is enough to drag a moan from her. Enough to make her tense when holding still and above him already threatens to be difficult.] Thor, please...

[She's not above begging, even this early in. She has no shame in how much she wants him all of the time, how much she craves his touch, or the fact that she'll plead for him and for more the whole way through if need be.]

[She doesn't need to beg much for Thor to give her more. He didn't want to be teased and he doesn't want to tease her. He wants to give her what she wants and hear her moan and cry his name, give him the praise and validation he craves when he feels low.

He drags his tongue harder, applying more pressure without being overbearing. He's attentive, his contact is constant and his tongue swirls and flicks in ways he knows she'll like. He's happy to be enveloped by her, surrounded by her skin and her heat, it's by far the happiest place for him right now.]

[Bless him, he knows exactly how to touch her and how to give her pleasure. He knows without her explaining what she needs and tonight doesn't withhold it. Her knees go weaker but she manages to stay upright as he uses his tongue against her damp heat to drive her crazy. It becomes harder to speak, harder to find words. She doesn't fall back on whispered oaths of deities and blighting anything.

It's his name she moans, again and again as her pleasure mounts higher and higher, eventually overwhelming her entirely. She finds her release with a jerk of her hips against his mouth, chanting his name between a litany of yes and please and incoherent sounds. Her cries echo in the open space of her apartment and her entire body tenses and shudders hard above him as she lets herself lean into the pleasure he gives her.]

[Bryn's orgasm is almost enough to give Thor a second wind, but instead he lets himself rest in her glow without distraction. It pleases him beyond words to make her cry and chant like that, her voice is sweetest when it's yelling his name.

He doesn't relent until he's sure she's had her absolute fill. His hands squeeze her thighs, then they relax, letting her rest a moment while he watches her with bright, pleased eyes.

Without rushing, he eventually slides his hands back up her waist and moves her back to his chest so he can lick his lips and smile sweetly.]

Thank you.

[ This still feels like a bad idea. Or it seems to have the marks of one. Loki doesn't know how to apologize, how to take back what is already done. It would sound fake, trite. It is not in him to truly regret what he's done even if there are moments he would like to take back or smooth over. But he's never been one for contrition. And Loki never will be.

And yet. Thor was caught in one of Odin's lies. At the very least, Loki does not need to leave Thor alone in it. And if Thor prefers to be, well . . . it's easy enough to leave. ]

Hurts, doesn't it? Being lied to.

[ Okay, Loki can't be that helpful. ]

[At this point, Thor isn't even sure an apology is what he wants. It's just words, it would be so easy to lie.

He's thought about it a lot since they argued. He's run it over in his head, he's remembered holding Loki's body in his arms and thinking that was it. Now there's an opportunity for more, and he can't begin to hope it will be good. It hurts to think Loki would rather be dead than be with him, but maybe it would have been the better choice for both of them.

But Loki's actions speak volumes his words never could. He's here, he's offering his own funny variety of comfort and he hasn't used their fight as a reason to put more distance between them.

Thor smiles mirthlessly. The similarities between their situations are not lost on him.]

It's confusing. [And infuriating. He can't help but want to talk about it with someone who might understand.] I've given up trying to understand why he does what he does. I thought I knew him, I thought I was him.

[He shrugs.] If I wasn't ready to know when I came back from Earth the first time, I don't know when I ever would have been in his eyes.

[ Loki circles Thor, a hint of nervousness in his gait. He wonders now, if Thor realized it was Loki that sent Thor back to Earth. Let him keep Mjolnir. He had the throne after all, but he often questioned why Thor fully believed it was Odin who sent him off. Who told him how proud he was.

But perhaps that was how Odin spoke to Thor. And just never to Loki. ]

I do not think you will ever give up trying to understand the All-Father or be like him. The man is a pinnacle of achievement after all. He brought the Golden Age to the Nine Realms. And your father.

[ Loki shrugs loosely, even if he doesn't quite make eye-contact. ]

The legend does not match with the man. He is a king first before anything else.

Is that what someone needs to be like, when they take the throne? All the weight of your power and you keep it all to yourself. Carry it all yourself.

[In case it wasn't apparent that he's been having doubts about his desire to rule.]

I know we didn't always agree, and I still don't really understand him but.. I never doubted that he loved me. [Until now.]

[ He blinks. ]

Well . . . yes. What did you think the throne would be like? It's not meant to be fun. The All-Father had no real advisers, he barely listened to the Queen.

[ Still, hearing Thor doubt Odin's love was . . . troubling. Even to Loki. ]

Of course he loved you. He banished you with the means to end your own banishment. You think he hands out those kinds of exceptions freely?

I never said it would be fun. [He doesn't snap, but his tone is defensive. He already feels like a fool, he's not keen to continue doing so.]

I was worthy enough to return, but not worthy enough to know my own powers. [He considers.] I suppose he thought we'd just find things out on our own.

[He almost holds his tongue, but he can't help it.] He must have been disappointed when he realised we're both fools.

[ Loki rears back as if stung, because the All-Father's disapproval still hangs over him like a cloud, a distant goal that Loki deep down still believes he can reach. That he can attain. In his darker dreams, he still thinks that someday, maybe someday, he could go home and all will be well.

Mere dreams.

His shoulders slump slightly. ]

It is best not to probe the All-Father's mind.

[Thor seems to notice the way Loki rears back, but he won't acknowledge it. He loses himself in his thoughts, drawing connections before he smiles faintly.]

He does things I could never imagine doing, I don't always understand why but I still love him as I did when I was a boy. [He looks up at Loki, with a raised brow.]

And that won't change.

[ And like that, a frisson of anger runs through Loki, making him ball his hands up in fists as he grits his teeth, losing his temper. ]

He lied to you! Who knows what else he has hidden away, what other things he deemed necessary without ever consulting you, without ever thinking of anything but himself and his future!

[ Yes, it's ironic, but Loki was strung out since his fight, the subsequent brief fall out with Taako and the stress that whatever changes he had made were utterly useless. He recognizes it, but it does not stop him. ]

He's never going to change!

[The anger comes a surprise to Thor. His brows shoot upward, but he lowers them in order to give his brother the flatest look imaginable.]

What would you have me do? Kill him? [He laughs, exasperated.]

There will be a long line of others awaiting the same punishment.

[ Loki stops short at that, colour leeching from his face. He's never going to change, he thinks numbly. Perhaps that is what he wanted. Loki wanted his father to change his mind but he wasn't going to. Just like Loki wasn't going to change. Perhaps he and Odin were not so different after all. His fingers uncurl and drop uselessly to his sides. ]

Like me.

I thought you were supposed to be clever.

[Thor observes, dryly.]

I don't expect change of Father. He's probably a million years old, by now. If he's changing, he's getting ready to die. [It hurts to think about it, but it's true.]

Other people have their whole lives ahead of them. Maybe they shouldn't commit themselves to one way of living before they've started to grey.

[ His lips twitch into a weak smile, but it's clear Loki's heart isn't into it. ]

What do you expect then?

I expect nothing. I hope for everything.

[Very cheesy, but it needed to be said.]

I hope for our futures to intertwine again, but if we need to go our seperate ways then I can abide by it.

[ Moments pass and it seems like Loki is ready to leave. He's said too much and the weight of it hangs over them like a noose. Taako said he had changed and Taako wasn't given to lying. Steve had said as much too. But so much of Loki wonders how much he was lying or whether he was, without even knowing it.

But Thor says I expect nothing and it feels like that weight has slightly lifted. Tentatively he reaches out to squeeze Thor's shoulder. ]

I am sorry about Father.

[ I am sorry about me, but Loki would never say that. He never will. ]

[The squeeze of his shoulder is more comforting than Loki probably even realises. Thor is starting to withdraw, somewhat. He feels less persistent about salvaging their relationship and yet, more confident that Loki will be fine on his own.

Sometimes he wonders if it would be better for them both if he were to leave this place alone. Leave Loki to his life, let him grow, do as he pleases without wondering what Thor will want of him.

Thor pats Loki's hand, but he can't help himself from holding onto it for a few seconds.]

He's in for a rude awakening, I'm sure. Maybe when I find him, we'll talk about it. Maybe he'll never bring it up so long as I have Mjolnir with me. It's not as if I'll lose it any time soon.

[He chuckles at the mere thought of actually losing his hammer.]

I think I understand a little better. Why you felt the way you did.

[ Loki keeps his hand there before gently pulling it back. ]

It's not the same. And it is not — what I wanted.

You don't want me to have uncontrollable lightning powers? How selfish.

[ He rolls his eyes, swatting Thor's shoulder lightly. ]

Knowing your self-control, you're bound to give everyone minute shocks.

You're welcome to help me with target practice.

That sounds like an excuse to hit me with lightning. I remember that from your "target practice" with your hammer.

Any excuse is a good excuse. [His grin is sly.]

Maybe when we finally go hunting you can get help.

[ His eyes narrow suspiciously. Loki is all too familiar with that phrase. ]

And what would I be getting help for?

For fun. Don't you miss it?

[ His eyes widen. ]

Oh, no. We're not doing that.

No, we're not. [He says, as if agreeing.]

Not yet.

Not ever. I hated that move.

Then why were you so good at it?

Anyone can be good at it! And I was the only one who would let you do it.

You did it before and you can do it again. [In one ear, out the other.]

Has Rogers given you a present yet? [He changes the subject so he can never be wrong.]

[ He blinks, caught off guard by that change of topic. ]

Steve? No. He is still teasing me about it.

Maybe he's still floundering. [Thor's smile is wry.]

He's working hard to meet your high standards.

[ A fond smiles touches his lips at that. ]

He works very hard indeed.

I hope it pays for him.

[He considers dancing around the subject before he decides to be crude.]

Have you bedded him yet?

[ Loki is no prude by any means, but even that blunt tone makes him stutter. ]

Thor you cannot just — [ He sighs, cutting himself off because Thor would do it regardless. ]

A few months ago.

[ And there's the faintest dusting of colour on his cheeks. ]

During the, ah, kink exhibition.

[Thor pretends to look scandalized, but he can't help but be amused. He's proud, he doesn't know why.]

Very bold of the Captain. [He quirks a brow.] He must have met your standards, then.

[He knows how fussy Loki can be.]

I made those up.

[ For the most part. Loki hadn't really believed in them. They were a pipe dream. Steve, however was real and his devotion was real. ]

But he thinks the world of me.

[It makes Thor happy to hear, but there's a hollow feeling in him. If he's interfering too much, if Loki wants more space than he's giving him.]

He's a clever man. [Thor hums.] I'm happy to hear it.

[ Loki eyes him briefly, expecting some form of jib before he relaxes. ]

. . . Thank you.

[ He's tempted to say if Thor hadn't been here, if Loki had been alone, it could have been far worse. Chances are he wouldn't have tried at all, simply resuming the cycle once more. But Loki still cannot put that to words. ]

[Sincere surprise crosses Thor's face. He thought he was being a hassle, and he genuinely can't imagine why Loki would thank him.]

For what?

[ For trying, but Loki balks at saying so. Instead he shakes his head. ]

I needed to say it.

Then I'm sure I needed to hear it.

[It's hard to say I appreciate it. It's hard to take credit for anything when he feels almost selfish for how much he clings to Loki.]

[ Loki glances at Thor, trying to gauge his mood. Thor has changed, far beyond what Loki believed he could. Sometimes that leaves him askew, unsure of where he stands with his brother. He has always, to some degree, relief on the belief that Thor would always be there, even when he was frustrated or tired with Loki. Save for his disastrous fall, that has always proven to be true. But all favors, all good intentions run out and Loki has expended them continuously.

So he lingers in fear. ]

I have never done it before. I suppose I am . . . trying.

[Something has changed in Thor. Something that tells him that all his pushing, all his effort is for nothing when what Loki wants is to make it on his own. He's not angry or bitter, though he is disappointed. He's just resigned himself to it.

Perhaps a while ago, he would have been elated to see Loki try. At this point, he feels himself become suspicious of the timing.]

Are you worried I'm going to die? [He asks, prying into where Loki's intentions lie.]

[ Loki blinks. ]

What? No. Why would — Is that what you think will happen with the canisters?

I don't know what will happen, I assume you don't either. [It's hard to be serious, alright.]

If you die, we'll be at tragic death number three.

[ Loki frowns. It had crossed his mind, but at this point, it's hard to be really upset about the possibility of dying. Though now he's vaguely irritated that Thor thinks Loki would say such things on a potential death bed.

( even though he's not wrong. ) ]

I do not, but I don't think I'll be dying either. Or you.

If witnessed my visions, you would be more concerned. [It's been a nightly thing. Lying in bed, seeing the visions play in his mind again.

And then he connects the dots.]

..Something has already come into fruition.

You have yet to speak of them fully to me. You know I have no real ties to Asgard's life.

[ Granted, their last conversation had been. Rough. ]

[Thor opens his mouth, closes it and realises Loki is right.

Briefly, he wonders if he should keep it to himself. Keep the torment to himself but ultimately decides that sharing the burden make it easier.]

I saw visions of Asgard. It was dark, people were dancing, laughing. [He gestures, vaguely.]

There was a hooded figure, but I couldn't see his face. Then Heimdall found me, and he was drunk. I think. And his eyes were white and he said I lead us all to Hel. That we were all dead. [He's going to keep gesturing as he rambles.] And then.. all of that power. That electricity. It was coming out of me and I couldn't control it, I killed someone and Heimdall told me that I am a destroyer. [He says it pointedly. The word has been cycling his mind for some time.]

After that, I began to see infinity stones. A gauntlet. The extinction of everything and- Stark's face. Which was the worst of it.

[He gives Loki a lopsided smile.] Do you think we should be concerned.

[ A gauntlet. A little colour slips from Loki's face though he hides it well. Had Thanos decided to change his mind? No, he wouldn't deign to come. He has nothing to fear from Earth or any other Realm. He prefers to let others do his bidding. Loki has a hard time picturing him coming for it personally.

He will make you long for something as sweet as pain. No doubt. Still, this vision had unusual signs. Thor mentions a figure and yet says his face. Heimdall's eyes and his wild prophecy.

Instead Loki clicks his tongue. ]

A vision with Stark? Awful indeed.

It would be foolish to ignore it. The Stones are dangerous business, wherever they may be. And Heimdall could always see far. But perhaps not far enough to say you are a destroyer. You may be reckless and not often cognizant of your strength, Thor, but you are a warrior. It is not in you to destroy.

There is a warning, but fear should not drive it.

Not on purpose. [Thor argues. Putting an end to his fear would require admitting that he's afraid of himself in the first place.]

You cannot tell me you aren't the least bit afraid of what will become of us. [He's almost desperate for Loki to admit that he's worried, too. He doesn't want to be the first to say that, for once, he truly is afraid of what might happen next.

He always goes into battle with confidence, but there's so much he can't comprehend and so many things he's learning only now. He's never had visions and he's never had power like this before.

Loki is the only familiar thing, but he may well have been what lead to their destruction. Regardless, Thor still wants him to be scared, so he can be the brave one who protects them.]

[ For a minute, there's nothing but silence. Thor's words hang in the air. Finally, Loki sits down, his hands folded together. He does not make eye contact, his usual tell when he is trying to put into words something deeply personal without wavering. Most people feel the opposite, but Loki changes when he makes eye contact. The need to conform, to bend to other's expectations comes from making eye contact and Loki could not afford that right now. ]

I'm always afraid.

[ The words comes out quietly, a quiet puff of breath. For a moment, Loki considers taking it back, leaving. Fear leaves him bare, leaves him without his defenses. And yet. ]

I hurt Taako recently and I stayed away because I thought he would not come back. I hurt Steve once. He called me a mistake and I don't know how I stayed then, but I was scared. I was scared when I told you the truth and realized there was no coming back from it.

[ Loki exhales, digging his fingers into his palms in frustration. ]

It is always, always like this since the Vault. I don't think I remember a time when I haven't been scared, Thor. But I know this much — I am tired of it.

[Thor doesn't press for words to fill the silence. He's patient, waiting for Loki to withdraw from himself and talk.

His lips press into a thin line, hearing it. It becomes apparent that Loki has monsters Thor can't fight for him, just as Thor has problems Loki can't soothe with words.

It doesn't matter how far they stray, Loki is a familiar comfort. His words hold weight for Thor, they mean more than anyone else's. He aches, knowing Loki is afraid and he's powerless, but he's right to worry that they may never come back from whatever happens back home.]

Perhaps for once, Loki needs to be brave and Thor needs to be clever? [His voice still has a strain to it, like he needs to convince himself as much as Loki.

He circles him, planting his hands on his shoulders to grip them firmly.]

You've come so far now, further than even I thought you could. [He squeezes his shoulders, then releases them.] You can keep going.

I — [ He squeezes his eyes briefly, not wanting to let any other weakness show before opening them once more ] — I suppose I am not ready to stop.

[ Even though that would be far easier. But Loki has started digging his heels and stopped taking the easy way out. ]

Are you scared, brother?

I'm concerned.

[It feels a little dishonest, in the wake of Loki's admittance. He quite obviously grapples with it for a moment before he speaks.]

If I could allow myself to live in blissful ignorance, I think I would.

You were never made for ignorance.

[ As tempting as it sounds, Loki has a hard time picturing Thor doing it. ]

You had your fill of it in Asgard long ago. Whatever comes, you are still mighty. You will handle it.

You're very generous with your flattery today, Loki.

[Thor smiles. His hands stay on Loki's shoulders, still squeezing.]

Whatever happens in there- I can't promise I won't be angry with you. But I can promise I won't forget how far you've come out here. If you can find happiness here, well, I have hope for you anywhere.

[His smile softens, he reflects and remembers a moment they shared what feels like forever ago.]

Now, give us a kiss.

Edited 2017-11-13 01:56 (UTC)

[ Loki huffs. ]

It's not my fault you're missing the obvious. Brooding away. It's disturbing.

[ But his eyes flicker down to Thor's hands on his shoulders as he relaxes. At least that promise exists. It is far more than he had hoped for. Still, . . . Loki takes the cushion to throw it at Thor's face. Kiss indeed. ]

I brood because you make me.

[Thor says, defiantly. He's not quick enough to dodge the pillow coming at him, so he grunts when it smacks him square on the nose.

He fumbles to catch it, swinging his arm back and forth to pelt Loki as many times as he can with it.]

You don't get to pin this on me — Argh, you brute!

[ Loki flails, covering his face with his arms. ]

Edited 2017-11-13 11:24 (UTC)

I can pin a little of it on you. [Thor relents, for a moment, but decides to have one more swing at it.]

Have you told Steve- about your canister?

[ Loki makes the pillow disappear with a grin before it falls slightly at Thor's question. ]

No. I didn't want to deliver bad news without knowing what it might be first.

[Thor regrets making the grin fade away, but he's glad he asked.]

Seems like a good idea. [He folds his arms over his chest, contemplative.] Maybe I shouldn't have told Bryn.

[ He glances at Thor, weighing his response. ]

Steve asked me to go back to his world with him.

[Thor's expression seems to change a few times before he can settle on something neutral. There's surprise and obvious disappointment that he needs to hide before he nods.]

Then you should.

Oh, Thor.

[ It's sad, sometimes. How well they can reach each other and how often they struggle to. He rises on his feet, touching his cheek. ]

You are the worst liar in all the Nine Realms.

I'm not lying. [He argues, but he lets his eyes fall shut as Loki's hand grazes his cheek.

He opens them, trying not to give too much again.]

What I want and what should happen aren't always one and the same. Even I know that.

[ It is true that Thor has at least learned to listen. They no longer spit poison at each other. Perhaps the change of scenery had helped, without the weight of the throne hanging above them. Maybe, as Taako and Steve had said, Loki has changed, even if it leaves him formless and unsure, not knowing where he should go or be. Would Odin simply banish him now? Or worse? ]

What should happen, Thor?

You should go home.

[Thor explains, but it's hesitant. He's explaining it to himself as well.]

Asgard isn't a home to you, nor is the Earth we know. It could be with Steve, it could be anywhere. But it doesn't have to be with me.

[His smile strains.]

[ You don't mean that, but Loki can tell that he does. It is simultaneously the best and worst thing Thor has ever told him. He lets his hand drop, looking to the side. ]

Right. It's . . . probably for the best if I don't return anyway.

You'll do well wherever you go. You're adaptable, for a stubborn arse.

[He reaches out to give Loki a gentle push.] You'll still mean everything to me. Wherever you go.

[ Loki allows it this time. ]

Mmm. Maybe I'll drop in unannounced every century or so.

You don't have to visit, but a letter every now and then would be nice.

[He suggests, then rethinks.] Preferably not one filled with poison.

I'll keep them a page long so I can be sure you've read them.

Very kind of you. [Bluntly, with the air of someone deeply considering thumping their brother on the arm.]

This is getting awkward. I should go. [Always the blunt one. Thor needs to be sad alone somewhere.]

[ A beat. ]

Thor. This is your room.

Mm. [Thor hums agreeably, as if he isn't glancing around and realising it is indeed his room.]

Then you should leave. [He puts his hands on his hips, trying to shrug it off.]

[ Loki sighs and with a shake of his head, he leaves, a glimmer of green shadow trailing before vanishing as well. ]

I was hoping you'd be free for dinner some time soon, great big sorta-brother. At Trixie? We've not spoken much of our homes and I'd like to, preferably with drinks flowing.

I do prefer my drinks flowing, and there are a few things I'd like to discuss with you about home.

Is tonight too soon?

Ooo, you have topics ready? I'll bring my twenty-questions face. Tonight works, I'll wait for you at the bar on the ground floor. Eight?

Eight it is.

[Thor usually dresses casually, but he makes an effort tonight. Dark jeans, dark shoes, a black top and a navy blue blazer. As if a smart outfit will distract from the fact that he's missing an eye.

He's still vain, deep down. He feels a little self conscious about the changes, now that he can't distract himself with heroics.

He's there at eight, looking around for Loki at the bar.]

Edited 2017-11-15 20:28 (UTC)

[ Loki is there at the other end of the bar, engrossed in conversation with a patron until the hairs stand up on the back of his neck and he senses a familiar presence, a power that thrums stronger than he recalls but nevertheless itches at his senses in old ways. He pushes through the crowd, peering around in confusion until his gaze locks onto broad shoulders in a blue blazer, short hair the right colour but ... well, short.

Even though he can't see a face no one else here is half as tall, so it has to be Thor. ]

Great Odin's beard, did your hair get into a fight with a pot of glue?

I took an accidental holiday in Sakaar. Loki enjoyed it a lot more than I.

[He's a little gruff, but at least he's joking about it.]

There's a lot I need to tell you. Shall we sit?

[ A witty reply dies on his tongue as he steps around to see him, finding an eyepatch, of all damned things, awaiting him. He doesn't mean to take an instinctive step back, stopped by a stool that bumps his legs, but as his heart twists into a knot in his throat and Loki's cheer is drained with icy dread he neither minds when he accidentally shrinks down to take a seat. The support is needed. ]

... Thor?

[Thor tries not to wince at Loki's reaction, but it's exactly the kind of shock and horror he's been anticipating. He looks like he's been through the wringer, he knows. All he can do is try to act like everything is fine.]

Mostly. Missing a few features. [He rolls the eye he has.] I thought maybe I should draw an eye on, but then it might be even more distracting

Edited 2017-11-15 21:41 (UTC)

[ That stupid good humour is what loosens up Loki's throat as he rakes him in a once-over, hesitant to ask but needing to before he addresses anything else. ]

Where is Mjolnir?

It's still here, by my bedside. [This time he does wince, rubbing his wrist as he struggles with the words. He mourns that damn hammer, almost as much as he does his father.]

It doesn't answer my call anymore. Doesn't do much of anything, actually. [He shakes his head.] Back home it was destroyed by Hela, with nothing more than a firm grasp.

[ There is so much to unpack that Loki slides to face the bar and orders a Green Mile, the only drink able to loosen a god's sobriety. He's so thankful for that first gulp. ]

I need you to start from the beginning.

[Thor relaxes into his seat, finally. Ordering a pint of whatever they have that's strong and readily available on tap.]

It actually started a while ago, when the Avengers were fighting Ultron. He enlisted Wanda's help, I'm sure you've met her. She gave me visions of Asgard's ruin and as I last recall, I was saying my farewells and heading off to find the source of our destruction so I could put an end to it myself.

[He doesn't even question the fact that he was going to fight something powerful enough to destroy Asgard alone.]

I thought our enemy was Surtur, since it lined up with the dreams I had. I let myself get caught and I fought him and took his crown with me, back to Asgard.

[He grimaces.] Upon my return I found Loki- although he was pretending to be Odin. He had hidden our father on Earth and meddled with his mind. When we found him, it was too late.

[Thor pauses himself.] I'm not boring you, am I?

Edited 2017-11-16 22:04 (UTC)

Impressed you defeated Surtur so easily, actually.

[ He always thought of his otherverse counterparts as younger but never stronger, yet now it seems as though they are the bullet-proof version of Asgardians even from his own Asgard. Thor couldn't smack around Surtur like that for fun, not so easily as to make the Lord of Muspelheim a footnote.

But this sounds ... ]

Your words bode ill, but go on. Loki was being a bag of dicks ...

He's nothing but a fool with a crown. [And that makes two of them.]

Anyway. Strange helped us find him. Nice of him. We found him just in time for him to tell us that he had banished our older sister and that the only thing keeping her from coming back and kicking our arses was his.. life force. I suppose?

So when he died, she returned. Broke my hammer, threw us out into deep space and went on to murder and rampage on Asgard while Loki and I bickered on Sakaar. I met Banner and a Valkyrie, brought them back to Asgard and fought her off as best we could. She took my eye. [He gestures vaguely at it.]

I discovered that I don't need mjolnir to summon lightning, which kind of helped, but it wasn't enough to stop her.

[He gets shaky at this point, it's the part that keeps him up at night.]

Loki returned with a ship big enough for the surviving citizens. We herded them on like cattle and-- I let Surtur return and crush the realm into stardust and sand.

[Here comes the thousand yard stare.] And now I'm the king who destroyed Asgard.

[ There's a seasickness in his gut as Thor reveals the wealth of his misadventures but one thing stands out, never really specified but implied. And it makes Loki feel even queasier. ]

Your sister Hela?

[ Okay, so. That all sounds like Ragnarok, but. ]

That can't ... be right.

[ It's self-indulgent not to coo and whimper over Thor's obvious distress but frankly they have a while to get to that, those anxieties and scars aren't going anywhere. Loki isn't selfless enough to ignore the twist of distaste that forces its way across his features to reveal, inadvertently but hopelessly, that Hela is definitely no direct (at least, not by blood) relation to him. ]

Father must be fooling you, how would ... ? And he can't die. He's father.

Father has fooled us from the day we were born. Since the day he brought Loki home.

[He finds his bearings somewhat, his expression hardens.]

If it was all a joke, it was a costly one. [He shrugs, remembering his drink and helping himself to it.]

He turned to sparkly dust and flew into the sky. Perhaps he's living on as a cloud.

[ His snort is immediate without being wilfully insensitive, but still he checks himself and has grace enough to look apologetic. ]

Sorry.

[ Father seems infinitely unlikely to turn into sparkles, but whatever. That sounds like bullshit to be needled another day; Loki turns a concerned look on Thor, a frown sinking in. ]

You inherited the Odinforce, then? I suppose it's the Thorforce now. The strength of the All-Father.

It's fine.

[Thor dismisses the apology, this whole thing has been laughably absurd.]

All I've inherited is a mess. [He raises a brow.] Whatever force I have wasn't enough to stop Hela without letting Surtur do the dirty work.

Edited 2017-11-18 07:25 (UTC)

I'm sure you did what you could.

[ So many times the Golden Realm has fallen, echoes of itself spanning forward across time. It's a morbidly depressing thought that his otherverse family has suffered so much when they were so untouched when first he came to know them, now blighted by a fate that ripples through every universe.

A shiver runs down his spine and he reaches over to lay a gentle hand on Thor's arm. ]

When you rebuild it will be different, yet home once more. Asgard is not a place, it is its people.

I've heard that one before. [He doesn't roll his eyes, but he gives Loki a wry look all the same.]

It can be better. [But it's a huge responsibility, and Thor doesn't even know where to begin.]

Thank you. [Thor turns his hand around so he can gently grasp Loki's wrist.]

Well, it's true. Asgardia became a nation of all the realms' lost souls under the All-Mother, perhaps you could attempt the same.

[ Sliding their hands off the bar so that he can properly take Thor's in his, swallowing hard as sympathy pains course through his heart (now that it is done being concerned with his own personal interests, oops) Loki sips off his stool to step closer, his gaze tracking from a blue eye to a lost one. He raises his free hand. ]

May I ... ?

[Thor tenses just slightly when Loki raises a hand toward him, but he relaxes himself. He's adjusting as well as he can to the change, but it's been a tough process.]

You may. [The permission is granted, but Thor's look is wary.]

I'm not going to stuff my fingers in your gross empty socket, stupid. [ Sympathy stains his tone, easing the jab of his words as Loki's soft fingertips brush lightly around the cavernous scar. ] Don't look so worried ...

[ The gentle touch traces where a brow used to be, thumb skimming where the formerly soft skin underneath Thor's eye has been weathered by his injury. Loki's expression is thoughtful, tinged with sorrow as he shakes his head. ]

When my brother lost his left arm I thought how cruel that was, his hammer-arm gone. He bears his Unworthiness worse, however. But this ...

I would never have wanted this to happen to you, of all Thors.

[Thor grunts at Loki's reassurances, because he really hadn't meant to make his discomfort so apparent. He doesn't like that it makes him feel so vulnerable, and it's not something he can just hide.

Loki's touch is gentle, as promised. Thor's other eye falls shut for a moment and he forces himself to be okay with the gesture. It's not Loki's fault he's crippled, it's not his fault he's having a hard time dealing with it, either.]

Could be worse. [He says, and it's to placate himself as much as Loki.]

I'd prefer this to losing an arm, I think. I need both hands to pull you and Loki around by the ears.

It could. [ He tries not to be too great of a downer, though the loss is awful. ] Never met anyone who wasn't terrified of Father and he was famous for your new look.

[ His hand slips down to rest on Thor's shoulder and he trails the other out of holding hands to skim up an arm, tracing through the middle of a bicep. ]

His arm ended here, the dwarves forged him a new one of black uru. It's very strong. [ Especially when it connects with your face. Hah. Looking up, he struggles to find his tongue for a moment then blurts out, ] You could call me Lokes, if you wanted. I like it. It helps differentiate between the two of us here.

Edited 2017-11-21 12:20 (UTC)

That's the dream, to be terrifying. [It used to be, anyway, but now Thor says it dryly and with humor.

Thor casts his eye downward as Loki's hand travels over his skin. He doesn't pull away or even second guess it, he's a sucker for affection.]

It might have attributed to his mood. [Thor muses. He can appreciate the novelty of a strong, uru arm but he knows that it would eat at him. Knowing someone got the better of him, that he's not whole somehow.]

Lokes. [Thor repeats.] I like it, it suits you. Generally I differentiate by calling him the grumpy one.

You don't terrify anyone who counts. [ Like family, whichever the universe.

With a huff, he drapes his wrists around Thor's neck and tugs on the short hair at his nape, basking in the attention and being allowed, more than anything, simply to touch. It's a novelty he covets at every opportunity. ]

I saw him once, when I was being reborn in this body. I saw a lot of Lokis ... but he was carrying a staff, I remember that. And I first saw you in the year 2013 when I travelled to your Midgard and read their Wikipedia on superheroes. [ He chuckles, a tease crinkling in the corners of his eyes. ] You were baby-faced on the photographs, an Avenger.

[That earns Loki one very fond smile. He puts his hands on Loki's shoulders, happy to keep a physical connection between them while the younger one pulls at his hair.

He grumbles, but there's no intent to stop him, evidenced by the fact that he does nothing but grunt in protest.]

Baby-faced. [Thor winces.] That was a long time ago, for all us. And we've come along way, Loki and I. [He can't hide the fact that he's happy with how some of his future turned out.]

He did well. You would be proud.

I already was, now I'm sure moreso. He never seemed the sort to descend into insanity like the rest.

[ There's room for some tweaking of Thor's beard as Loki grins, giggling. ]

I suppose these face pubes are going nowhere and I'll have to be proud of them, too. Poor baby-face, he was so pure!

He seems to have pulled himself out of whatever spiral he was in.

[There's uncertainty in Thor's tone, but he's distracted by the tweak of his beard.

This time he growls in feigned frustration and darts his hands to Loki's midsection in attempt to tickle his tweaking away.]

I was going through some things then, alright? Did you see my hair? What was I thinking?

You, ahaha! Thor, no! Bad Thunderer! [ Jerking away from the tickles he slaps at the offending hand. How dare! ] You needed a comb, you caveman. Your beard could do with a trim right now, in point of fact.

[Thor withdraws his hand when smacked, but when Loki continues to sass him he flexes his fingers in threat.]

Have I not lost enough? [He plays the pity card.] If I trimmed it, I'd look like a far more handsome Stark. I prefer to be rugged.

Edited 2017-11-22 01:34 (UTC)

Fear not, Thor, you could never pass for handsome even with two eyes.

[ No beats missed, woop. ]

You probably just have bad taste.

[Thor stares, picking up his drink for a long chug.]

I'm not easily impressed, that's all.

[ STARING BACK OVER HIS OWN DRINK, SIP SIP BUTTHEAD. ]

I don't think I need you to find me handsome anyway. I can find my validation elsewhere, I'm sure.

Elsewhere, is it? Aye, let's ask someone else.

[ Shapeshifting into a woman as mischief twinkles in green eyes, Loki casts a wrist over her forehead and sniffs dramatically by Thor at the bar. ]

It's true ... he's the ugliest of all the Aesir! So insists Trixie of Earth, whose eyes are the strongest of any mortal in history!!

[Thor rolls his eyes when Loki shapeshifts, he's far too used to this kind of mockery.]

Your opinion would be contested by a great many, then. I've been told my selfie game is untouchable.

[ Seriously doubting that when half her phone is beauty edit apps, Loki slips out her phone and backs up on Thor to include him in a new selfie. ]

Okay, okay, big man ... Bring your best! Throw down!

[ Forty-five degree angled chin is go!! ]

[Of course, Thor doesn't try at all. He throws up a peace sign and smiles that easy, charming smile, just like he would if he were approached by a fan.]

... No cheating.

[ Stupid charming Thor. ]

I'm not cheating. [Thor straightens up, furrowing his brows at Loki.]

How is that cheating?

[ Solemnly, Loki informs him. ]

Your face is very deceitful, there are tricks and secrets within every wrinkle. I know your game, Odinson, and will have at thee if you try that adorable shit again. I own daggers.

Okay! Again, this time with filters!

[ Perking up from the dour intonations, she beams and makes a peace sign as bunny ears pop up over both their heads on the screen. ]

You're mistaken, I don't have wrinkles. [Very pointedly.]

Interesting that you tell me not to be adorable, then you pick this. [He points at the camera, but lowers his hand so he can smile in a less charming and completely goofy manner.]

Don't be rude to a lady, oaf.

[ Pinching his chin between thumb and forefinger, she squishes his expression for another photo. ]

Wah, wah, I'm the God of Short-Back-And-Sides and I think I'm cuter than a bunny rabbit!

[This is significantly less flattering, because Thor is pulling a face. He embraces the fact that he looks like a fool, at the very least.]

I'll be rude to a lady if she starts it. [Thor narrows his eyes.] I know green is your favorite colour, but this is a bit much.

[All of that envy over his selfies, Loki.]

That's not how manners work!

[ Laughing, Loki stuffs her phone away and orders two more drinks from the bar. ]

Shut your mouth, I won. It was my game and I get to decide who triumphed.

That's not how games work! [Thor argues, but he's not sure why he cares about who wins a selfie game.

He digresses.]

It's a nice place you've got here, Lokes. Very bold, it suits you.

You think me bold?

[ Chewing her lip, she shakes her head. ]

Ah, I'm anything but. You're the one who bounces around with lightning on his heels.

More than two people can be bold.

[Thor points out, then reaches out to brush a lock of hair from her face.]

Besides, I think you're bold. Bold with your tastes and illusions, you're anything but subdued, don't you think.

[ Leaning into the gentle touch, she brings her hair forward and idly starts a messy knot, failing to braid it properly on purpose. Maybe, as her batting lashes and coy smile suggests, Loki could use some help. ]

How in the name of Ymir do you know anything about my tastes, hmm? Please don't mean in fashion or decor.

I know your tastes because you exude them.

[Thor, surprisingly, takes the hint. He's perfectly adept at braiding hair, but he's not nearly so deft and gentle as Loki. He's a little rough and he tugs at her hair as he pulls it into place.]

Don't make me explain myself, you know I'm not good at explaining myself.

I exude them? What a word to use ... Ouch! Gods above, you're not plucking a chicken, be gentle.

[ Her hands briefly cover his, guiding his rough touch into something less like a grip lonely for its hammer. She peeks up at him, black lips pressed into a tight line in scrutiny. ]

I demand you explain, even if poorly.

[Thor's pull softens when Loki guides his hands, but there's still something firm and methodical about the way he braids.]

Oh, you demand do you? How bold.

You're going to talk yourself into a position you won't like and it won't be my fault.

[ Thor's current position, however, is as Loki's personal couch as she slumps into his side while her hair is being prettied. ]

I've never been in a position I don't like with you before.

[He visibly acknowledges the double entendre, but opts not to comment on it. When Loki relaxes, Thor starts to feel a little niggle of envy. He's going to miss having his hair braided like this, there's no telling how long it will be until it gets to that length again.

When he's satisfied with his braid, he reaches up to scritch his fingers over her scalp.]

[ Laughing, she leans in further and finds a home in the curve of his neck, her nose running over beard-scruff. Loki's arms wind around his middle when the hand in her hair turns her spine to marshmallow and she closes her eyes to better enjoy the embrace, his warmth and weight. It's reassuring in ways she hasn't experienced in almost a year. ]

Hearing that only makes me more adventurous.

[It's starting to becoming a little too intimate for Thor, but he relates it to the fact that the change of form is difficult to wrap his head around sometimes. He doesn't often associate Loki with being an attractive woman.

He gives her hair a tweak again, if only to remind both of them that they're brothers.]

More bold, you mean? [He won't drop it.]

[ Pity for Thor that pulling Loki's hair isn't the cheat-code to turn her back into a man. She merely grunts and raises her head to put them nose-to-nose, reaching around him to yank on his shorter hair in return. ]

How is it you've become more annoying than me?

Practice. [Thor says, and for the first time he actually does shy away. He looks at the floor, then back up to Loki.]

Thank you. [He doesn't elaborate, but he does move to squeeze her hand.]

[ When he gives thanks and squeezes her hand a free one comes up to touch his face; a cool, black-lipped kiss presses into his other warm cheek and Loki beams with a pleased smile, albeit not knowing what the gratitude is for. ]

Thank you. I would be lost without your friendship, truly.

My friendship? [Thor closes his eye when she presses a kiss to his cheek, then opens it to give her a curious look.]

All I do is moan at you.

Oh, I'm used to men moaning at me.

[ Her impish chuckle avoids answering Thor entirely and her hands fall into his, tugging him toward the spiral staircase that leads downstairs. ]

Dance with me?

You're determined to make me look like a fool.

[Thor is semi-reluctant, but he follows along when she leads him to the stairs.]

If it makes you happy, I will.

Hah!

[ Once they take their first step down, the music seems to grow in volume on their spiral descent into shadow and flashing lights. ]

You'll not get lost with only one eye, no fear. [ Sidling in close, Loki grins and speaks near his ear to be heard over the bass. ] I have no intention of letting you go.

I'm not afraid. [He argues, but he doesn't fight the contact when they're descending down the stairs. He's still getting used to his new perception, but he doesn't want Loki to think him weak.]

I'm not going anywhere. I came here to spend time with you, you fool.

[ If only Thor knew that Loki could never think him weak. Not even if he were Unworthy instead of simply ... Oh. She keeps his arm in hers and waves to the DJ, mouthing a name and title. And when the song starts, it does so noticeably: YOU CAN'T TOUCH THIS: HAMMERTIME!!

She clasps his hands and raises them up, laughing and dancing. ]

[At this point, the song is hauntingly familiar, particularly when it gets to the chorus. Thor pulls a face, because he knows damn well Loki was behind the song choice, but his reluctance begins to fade.

It is much, much easier to lose yourself in dancing than it is to dwell on the horrible thoughts that wait for an idle mind.]

[She calls Thor instead of texting, because she's less prone to over-thinking this way.]

Hey, Thor? I was wondering-- would you be up for sparring?

[She's not nervous, exactly, she's more hopeful. She needs someone and her options are pretty limited.]

[It's definitely not the kind of message Thor is expecting when he takes the call, so he pauses before he responds.]

You want to train with me? [Her intentions seem clear, but he feels the need to clarify before he agrees.]

[The fact that he checks doesn't really surprise her; they don't know each other well and she's about five-nothing. So she laughs a little wryly.]

Yeah. I've got powers? And I'm getting better, but I'm not quite perfect. And you're- Asgardian. God of Thunder.

Figure if there's anyone that I wouldn't have to worry about too much...

You don't have to worry about me, but I would worry about you.

I.. might have electrocuted the last person who asked me to fight, it got messy, but I'm open to suggestion. What are your powers, exactly?

[She laughs softly.]

That’s exactly what I was worried about. Energy. Electricity. I tried to stop a train once and I stopped every train in the city. So, yeah. You seemed like the best choice.

So, how about it?

It does sound like we have something in common.

[Thor has difficulty imagining refusing her when she's seeking him out for help. He's developed better control of his powers without mjolnir, so he's not hugely concerned..

Maybe he should just go for it.]

I have more time than sense. Name a place and I'll be there.

It's kind of why I asked.

[She still has trouble, but she's been training with Loki, so she's getting better at it. She leaves Thor's brother out of the conversation, though.

She smiles when he agrees. And she describes a clearing a ways outside the gate, and gives him easy directions. She figures it's better to not do this near the city, so.]

I'll meet you there?

Now? I'll be there in a few moments.

Sure. I'll see you there.

[She's only a few minutes away herself, so it's kind of fifty-fifty on who gets there first. She seems pretty casual, jeans and a hoodie and two swords on the left side of her hips.]

[Thor struggles between too casual and too formal. It doesn't seem appropriate to come in boardshorts and a sweater, so he's donned his outfit from home. He's left out the arm coverings and the cape, so he's at least a little more casual than he would be in serious battle.

He also has two swords, but they're strapped to his back. The lack of a hammer is notable, especially considering he doesn't just fly in.

He walks to the meeting point, nodding when Ava appears.]

Hello.

[Ava's wearing a white bodysuit, sleeveless, and red reinforced boots. White leather gloves. She thought about the outfit she'd worn with SHIELD, but more and more she found herself pulling away from that identity. The Red Widow. No one here understood it, so the hourglass and the name was uncomfortable, even if she hadn't changed her network handle yet.

She stands easily, a roll of her shoulders.]

Hey. [She waves lightly.]

So, any parameters? [She's teasing, but then she gets serious.] I'm stronger and more durable than most people, but I'm not Asgardian. But don't go too easy on me, yeah? Sort of ruins the point. [There's a distinct lack of ego to it, or even playful threats, just facts.]

[It takes her a moment, that last chance to chicken out, but instead she steels herself. And she allows herself to stop holding back. Power glows over her heart, spills from her eyes, eating away her pupils with the blue glow. It spills over her skin; sea blue that ripples with bands of lightning energy as she breathes.]

We stop when the other one is unconscious. [He offers with a small shrug. He still struggles to understand where to draw the line, but he's not one to push a human too far.

If he needs to carry her to a hospital, he'll leave it to her to explain why she wanted to do this. His reputation isn't in peril, though he does worry a little about it, he's more interested in helping her train.

When she starts herself up, he does too. He's still learning to draw his power from somewhere in him and not out of him. Electric sparks flicker up his arms and he shuts his eye, breathing in deep before he opens it again, revealing a white, shining glare from his socket.

If she wants to learn, he'll make the first move. Thor keeps it obvious, at first, he draws a sword and runs at her, ready to twist and turn to follow her movements.]

Alright.

[Alright is probably not the smart thing to say, but she has a reckless streak. And she doesn't want someone that's going to hold back, go easy on her. It's partially a gamble on a particularly risky learning curve, but mostly-- she needs some way to let some of this energy drain off when all of her usual outlets were suddenly dangerous; too many people. Innocents. And she'd always been attracted to being pushed too far.

But, well, she had no particular objections to electrocuting Thor in the face. She figured he could take it. It's- admittedly surprising, seeing him mirror her like that. Because Natasha had never seen him do it, so Ava hadn't known he could, and well. Quite frankly she'd never seen anyone who did this like her. But here they are, and she's not backing down.

Pupilless eyes and that electric sing of the air, lightning and distant thunder. It's fine. This is good. He draws a sword and runs at her, and she dodges, twisting, springing back as she slices up with one of her blades at the same time, that arc of light and energy.

She's fast. If he pays attention, he might notice something similar to Natasha in her style in how she moves, that fluid grace, but sharpened into something unnatural. She's developing her own spin on it, but it's still there, under her skin. A mirror.]

[In his absence, Thor's fighting style has already changed dramatically. Losing Mjolnir has been like losing a limb and, well, losing an eye has been like losing an eye. He's still adapting, but what he's gained from his loss is something powerful. Powerful and a little volatile.

He's already a little guarded in his movements, though he gains more confidence in her ability as they progress. He can see the similarities to Natasha in her movements, and it's almost worrying. Natasha uses her whole body when she fights, and she doesn't pull punches, she isn't afraid to aim where it hurts and he suspects Ava may not either.

What Thor lacks in fluidity, he makes up for in strength. He isn't stiff by any means, but he's precise and he wastes no energy on flourishes. He swings his sword back to defend against her attack, energy crackling between them as the blades meet. Thor's arm is steady and he pushes back hard, he puts his energy into trying to throw her off her feet.]

Apparently I have a daughter.

[ There's a strangled tone in his voice, plz help. ]

[He notes the tone, but he's not really sure how seriously to take this.]

..I didn't know Steve had it in him.

Don't be daft, Thor. She's from another world, born of another Loki.

Does it surprise you that other Lokis have learned to procreate?

[ Yes and no. Loki was aware of that fact, but that's not what he's disturbed. ]

Honestly, they should know better than that.

Maybe knowing better is why they're settling down and starting families.

She's afraid of me.

Edited 2017-12-15 02:13 (UTC)

[ A pause. ]

She's afraid.

She doesn't know you. [Firmly.]

Do you know why she's afraid?

If I had to guess, I would say Loki was not a superlative parent.

[ And isn't that ironic. ]

She does not want to be killed or controlled. Both are skills I am known best for.

Mm. And you think that all Lokis are one and the same, despite the fact that the other one likes to sit in my lap. [Said so blandly.]

Some prophecies are self-fulfilling.

[ Loki deliberately leaves a long pause so that Thor can ruminate on a Loki sitting on his lap and everything that entails. ]

I never wanted this.

[Thor made a conscious decision long ago not to think too much about that.]

What, a child? Or the responsibility? [Or both, Thor supposes.] You know, I hate to say it, but you hold no real responsibility toward them. You aren't obligated to take them under your wing.

[But Thor is interested to see that Loki seems to have assumed that role already.]

[ He hasn't fully realized that he could easily avoid it. That there is no expectation on him to act. Loki may have differing opinions about family, but he had always cared about it. And this was intimate and terrifying and put a deep well of fear that he cannot fully exorcise; that there was more of Odin and the worst parts in him, even with children. ]

. . . I can't do that.

And that's what makes you different from other Lokis. [Thor gives him a sly look.]

Inferior Lokis, from the sounds of it. Don't make their mistakes your own, no matter what you may uncover about them.

Are we truly that different?

[ In his heart, he knows there are some differences. Enough, perhaps, to set him apart. But the doubts remain. There were more similarities after all and Loki's first clean break was still all too new to him. He has no idea what he's doing or even what he's doing is right. All he knows is that he no longer wishes to apologize for the person he is or cater to the people who saw him at his worst. ]

I wouldn't know. I only know you. [A beat.] And the little one.

And I know you, and I know all that you are capable of, but I've not known you to be cruel to children-- And you are fond of things that resemble you. [Statues, mostly.]

[ It's true that Loki's cruelty has not been known to touch those he deems too young. It doesn't absolve him of the ones he has hurt, even if he directly did not lay hands on them, but it is . . . something at least. ]

Somewhere out there, a Loki was exactly like that.

But I suppose I am done fending off shadows. Or accepting them.

And somewhere out there, a Thor is married to Sif with many little children and Odin walks among the mortals merrily. [Thor shrugs.]

Our names are attached to people who hardly resemble us, because they aren't us.

[He nods at Loki's final statement, feeling as if they're making some sort of progress.]

I wouldn't take his actions to heart. You're already thinking about doting on the child like it's your own, doesn't seem like something the other Loki would do.

[ Loki scrunches up his nose at that. Married to Sif? ]

I'm hardly someone who is well adept at doting. That's more you.

When have I ever doted on anything or anyone? If anyone dispenses the tough love around here, it's me. [Defensive?? No!!]

How small is she? She's old enough to talk and cast judgement, she's probably too old for everything I know about entertaining children.

[ He rolls his eyes at that. Tough love indeed. ]

She's a teenager. Around Ava's age, I would assume.

It would be nice for Ava to have a friend her age, rather than more sad, old men.

Are you going to take her under your wing or watch her protectively from the shadows like an old, mother beast.

[ Loki opens and closes his mouth abruptly. ]

I don't know. I don't even know if she really wants me around.

[Thor shrugs, he can't answer that one.]

Time will tell. Nothing lost, nothing gained, at least?

[ . . . Finally he nods, some of his fey mood leaving him. ]

Of all things though . . . children was not what I expected.

We've had an interesting influx of people wandering in who act like they know a lot more about us than we do, lately.

It does feel a little grating.

[ But Loki has always hated people assuming things based on his nature. ]

Such is the price of universal fame. [Thor shrugs.]

It's nice to know we're remembered, even if we aren't the same.

I prefer to be remembered as myself than a countless variations thereof.

At the very least, it's fun to mess with their perceptions. I don't think Sif is particularly enjoying it, though.

Sif is angry at everything.

[ Doing the Loki thing. So he knows better than to interfere. ]

Best to leave her to it.

[~ Many drinks later..... ~]

- She doesn't have one. [Ragnar misjudged how far away Thor was, so when he leaned over he nearly lost his balance.] See. Nothing.

[He pushed his phone toward Thor and then his blue eyes went wide.] We need to help her.

[He sat up and clapped his hands together.] You've known her longer. So you will help.

The first -ah, skål [he raised his newly refilled cup in thanks to the bartender]. The first one is age... Women... women don't like that question. What should we put?

I told you, she would never make one on her own. [Thor steadies Ragnar. He's drunk, but he's not that drunk yet. Someone needs to fly this plane.]

I will help, so she will kill me.

Skål. [He raises his cup, as if accepting his fate, then he takes a swig.]

We should put- timeless. Beyond time. Something like that. It's mysterious.

[In unplanned and fairly comical synchronicity, they both raised their cups and took a drink.

They were dead men.]

Timeless! Perfect. That... was the only easy question.

[Now for the real work.]

What is she seeking and what are her preferences? Not a husband. Honest...? People? Valorous individuals... who can take a punch? And 'not assholes'? [Was 'not assholes' a preference? Sure. Sure, it was.]

If I knew what Sif sought, I'd be the wisest man in the universe.

[Thor says, somberly.]

If we're being honest, that's what she's seeking. If we're.. flouring her profile to help her along the way, she's looking for people who can handle her. Right? [Thor is oblivious to thousands and thousands of bad, cheesy dating profiles with that very same answer.]

[Ragnar chuckled in amusement, though what he was actually laughing at was questionable.]

Are we? [He seemed to go into deep, metaphorical contemplation... or he was nearly falling asleep. One or the other.] 'Handle her' is very suggestive. That's good, yes? I'm going to put one of those faces on there after it. The winking one.

I am going to put 'not assholes' for preference. That basically takes care of all the people she doesn't want.

Her interests: Hitting things. Hitting people. Weapons. [He's listing them off on his fingers as if they needed to keep count.]

Edited 2017-12-25 12:58 (UTC)

Yes, best filter out assholes. Her taste in men will be the death of her. [He gives Ragnar a pointed look that lasts a millisecond before he moves on.]

We're making her sound very intimidating. Maybe we should say something nicer- gentler? Like.. ahh.. Well. She... [He gestures.] She's passionate. She likes to care and protect. She likes a good feast, a good drink and she can dance when she's had enough good drinks.

[It's the intonation and the slight pause more than the pointed look that catches his attention, but by the time he thinks to actually look in Thor's direction, the god had moved on.]

What? She is intimidating. And 'passion' isn't an interest.

She does like a good feast though. And a good drink. I am going to put all of these in the list. [He frowns at the phone as it skips down to the 'Bio' section after he'd only entered three or four things. Strange.]

Bio. What does 'bio' mean again?

She is, but I thought we were making this to help people get past the fact that she's terrifying. [Duh!]

Bio is like a little summary of yourself. Who you are, what you do, what you hope to do and what you want people to know about yourself. Sif is a warrior and a goddess, she fights and she hopes to.. I don't know, find love?

... Right. [He frowns, possibly in thought or maybe because he was seeing double. It was difficult to say.] But. Shouldn't they like her because she's intimidating? ... Did you say terrifying? [He snorted in laughter.] Terrifying is a strong word.

Warrior and goddess. Good. 'I fight and I hope to'... [He once again can't help but laugh.] No. She does not want to find love. That is the last thing she wants.

Uhhhhm. I hope to... I hope to... meet you soon?

[He looked at the sad little bio they'd managed and dragged his hands down his face, scratching his fingers through his beard as he tried to think of ways to improve it. As it was, it was terrible.] What if... we put some of these tiny pictures after that? She likes animals, yes? And trees?

Maybe we should balance it out a little- they should know she's intimidating but they should know that she has a soft side as well.

Yes, the pictures will do nicely. Shows that she's playful. [Thor nods, raising a brow at Ragnar's insistence that she doesn't want love. He moves on.]

It reads well, but I think we're underselling her. Perhaps we should litter in a few compliments. She's beautiful, that's worth mentioning. And if she's not using this for love, then.. [Thor shrugs.] Maybe we ought to suggest it. Beautiful, wanton goddess. Something like that.

[Not that he could likely properly articulate what Sif had told him, nor should he. It had been a moment of weakness for Sif, something she would likely prefer to keep between herself and Ragnar, but he knew she was terrified of getting too attached, of loving and losing again.]

'Beautiful, wanton goddess? [Ragnar didn't quite manage to stifle the snort of laughter. It was definitely going into the profile.]

Done. What do you think? [He slid the phone to Thor. Not that it really mattered... it was posted now.]

[Thor laughs, then briefly fears for his life. Ragnar can watch as his one eye seems to darken as he has a small, internal crisis before he lights up again.]

I think it's perfect. [He smiles, putting a hand on Ragnar's shoulder and squeezing.] I think we're dead.

What? Why? [He downs the rest of his drink and actually has the sense to wave off the bartender's offer of a refill.] We've saved her time and trouble.

And maybe she will make some new friends.

What's not to like about this?

For me? Nothing. It's perfection.

[Thor nods, solemnly.]

For Sif, I imagine she will not like anything about it. But it's a noble sacrifice.

Brother. Are you free? I would speak with you.

[This warrants an insta-reply.]

I'm free. Is everything alright?

Everything is well. I have news, that I would rather share in person.

Good news, I hope?

[He thinks to ask if her partner has made it here, but decides that asking will probably spoil the surprise.]

I can meet you at the Lucky Shot espresso bar in 10 minutes?

You might say that.

I will see you shortly.

[ When she arrives at the Lucky Shot, she does so on her winged armor, swooping in and landing outside the bar before retracting her wings into the armor, and looking around for Thor. ]

[Angela is pretty easy to spot when she swoops in like that, so Thor half stands, just enough so that he can wave and draw her attention.

If he's nervous, he's not showing it.]

Should I order you something, or should we get right to it?

[ If he bought her coffee, she would have to stay long enough to pay him back. No, she doesn't have time for that. She shakes her head. ]

I won't be staying long. I have come to say my goodbyes.

[ She sits down across from Thor, carefully in her armor. ]

Those who study the petal have informed me they can send me back to my universe. To Sera. It is an opportunity I cannot miss.

Edited 2018-01-12 17:25 (UTC)

[Thor's brows raise in surprise. It takes him a moment to comprehend the news, before his expression settles.]

I understand.

[He says, finally, extending a hand for hers if she'll present it.]

You have to go.

I do.

[ She takes Thor's hand and grasps it firmly. Hesitation seems to cover her expression for a moment, but finally, she adds, ]

Know that I took great joy from knowing you, and calling you brother.

[Thor gives her hand a firm, reassuring squeeze. His expression softens somewhat, but he tries not to look too sad.]

Likewise. Of all the sisters I never knew I had, you've been the best. [He jokes, and his smile is sly.]

I hope that your return is triumphant and that your iteration of me can pull his head out of his arse.

[ To Angela's credit, her lips do quirk into something resembling a smile. ]

I'll tell him you said so, should we cross paths again.

[Thor's face lights up just a little when he earns something close to a smile. He chuckles, happy to enjoy the moment before he speaks again.]

Am I keeping you?

[ She shakes her head. ]

I have been granted time enough to say my goodbyes.

[ Though they all seem to be difficult things. She has already said her goodbyes to both Lokis, and both were emotional affairs. ]

Generous of them. [He has mixed feelings about their captors, but he has good reason to believe they are genuinely kind.]

Is there any unsettled business I can help you attend to? Anyone you need to rough up?

[ Her lips turn upward at the offer. ]

No one I can't handle myself. [ Then her smile turns rueful, yet fond. ] In all seriousness, the people of this quarantine have been nothing but kind to me.

For a place that seems to pick people at random, they've done a surprisingly good job at picking surprisingly good people.

Should they ever deign to send me home, too, I think it would be a difficult choice to make.

Yes, I can imagine it would. Had I not lost Sera once already...

[ She may have lingered as well, but in reality, there was no way she would stay while Sera exists elsewhere. ]

Do you know if you will remember anything about this place?

[That's one of his burning questions. He wants to remember his friends, how far he came with Loki, the family he met. He struggles to imagine forgetting that.]

[ She shakes her head. ]

I do not know. I can only hope that I do. To forget... you and Loki are brothers to me. I would not wish to lose that.

Coming here at all was a surprise to me, who knows what will happen. Whether it's in the next few years or a century from now. [He smiles, warmly.]

You'll always be my big sister. And my only big sister, for that matter.

[ She returns the smile, a little less warm because that's just who she is as a person, but no less genuine. ]

You remain my preferred iteration of the Odinson. More worthy than any Thor I've met.

[As he's walking away after he got kicked out for breaking in and trying to shove a robot eye in.]

I spent an awful lot of time on that, the least you could do is let me show you some of the things it can do.

If you wanted me to appreciate the moment, you should have let me put pants on.

You can come back over, if you like. If Bryn will let you.

Maybe we should meet somewhere else...

It's nothing I haven't seen before.

But fine. Is there a park or something nearby? I don't want to bring down a building if you can't control the laser.

[Hastily sent immediately after.]

Don't think about that last part you'll turn it on if you do.

[Okay. Well. Give him a minute to use sheer force of will to think of anything but lasers.]

Why would you

[He stops, mid-sentence.]

There's a park a little ways a way. I'll send you the location,
I'll be there in 10 minutes. In pants this time.

[He'll be there, whenever Tony shows up.]

[Tony decides to sit on the swings and waits for Thor. It's early enough that no one else is around even if none of the locals celebrate this particular holiday. He makes for a sorry sight, pushing himself in an empty park.

In his mind, he's showing Anthony what a swing is like so he's not particularly bothered by how it looks. Thor would notice that he can actually see a dark haired child sitting on Tony's lap, but only through his new eye. Of course that depends on if he's been successful in not thinking about lasers.]

[Thor has, by sheer force of will (and thinking about naked women), successfully staved off thoughts about lasers. He focuses his attention on the fact that his depth perception back. It's a strange concept, to have something so subtle taken away and returned in a few months. He'll never take it for granted, again. No more opening wine bottles with the cork facing his eye.

Thor narrows his eyes when he catches sight of Tony. Something about his perception is off again, but that's a little less dubious than the fact that Tony has a child.

Thor closes his normal eye. It's still there. He closes the robot eye. Gone. He shakes his head, then clears his throat for Tony's attention.]

Santa spoiled you, then?

[Tony stops the swing before looking down at the sweater Thor gave him as he got shoved out the door and then back up at the other man.]

I suppose he has. This is one more than what I normally get.

[People don't usually get Tony anything. Gregory used to send lumps of coal once upon a time, but he grew out of it and now he wouldn't be sending anything. Tony didn't fault them, he imagined he was hard to shop for.]

You made it without setting anything off. Congratulations.

[He claps his gloved hands and makes sure that they don't pass through Anthony.]

[Thor is, of course, wearing his matching sweater. They both look absolutely ridiculous, which is more a present than the sweater itself.

He watches Tony clap with a raised brow, then helps himself to sitting in the swing next to him. The chains groan in protest from his weight, but he doesn't acknowledge it.]

Are you going to introduce me? [Thor pushes past talk about the eye, even if he is deeply curious about what else he could set off.]

[They look like mismatched brothers which warms Tony's needy little heart. He wasn't joking when he told Loki he wouldn't mind swapping places. An older brother who cared was very tempting.

Tony is confused for a second before realisation dawns.]

You can see him. I didn't think about that.

[Anthony looks over at Thor cheekily before waving.]

This is Anthony, he's my brain tumour. Anthony already knows who you are.

[There's a lot to unpack in that last sentence, but Thor is used to it. Especially with Tony. He does pause for a moment, as if he temporarily blue screens before he moves on.]

I'm not sure if it's egotistical or altruistic to name your brain tumor after yourself. [He quirks a brow, but his eyes linger on the boy.]

You didn't mean for me to see him?

Why not? He comes from my cells.

[Anthony gestures towards Tony and he leans down to listen to his whispers before he lets the boy down and he seems to run off.]

I'd have mentioned it sooner or later. I just didn't consider that he'd take the initiative. He can interface with machines, your eye being one such example.

[Thor inclines his head in consideration, then eventually nods in agreement. He watches Anthony run off before he looks back over at his friend.]

I'm sure that won't be an issue in the future. Is there anything else I should know about? So far we have lasers and tumor children.

[He lists them off with his fingers.] X-ray, night vision, holographic projection, fire, Wi-Fi... I can't remember if I managed to fit an EMP or not.

[He waves his hand dismissively.]

If I can't remember it it's probably not important. Closing your eye will turn it off anyway.

[Even if the thought of closing an eye while there's a laser shooting out of it might be a little bit worrying.]

[ Sif's departure does not surprise Loki. He can't say he's particularly upset about it either. Alex's departure hit him harder for reasons he does not want to scrutinize. But he knows that Thor will mope. Not outwardly, but he'll certainly struggle for a bit. Losing that connection. So he drops by with a bottle to share between them.

Or just let him have it, Loki hasn't decided yet. ]

[On the other hand, Sif's departure absolutely surprises Thor and he certainly is moping about it. It just doesn't seem fair, since he'd imagined them all returning home at once so they could face everything that awaits them together.

He knows that it's not how things work here, and yet, he's still surprised.

Thor's moping isn't on the same level as others, because he doesn't have it in him to lie around and do nothing most of the time. He's fully dressed and functional, but he's struggling to find things to preoccupy his mind with.]

I'm outside.

[He calls over the fence, and it's as good as an invitation to come join him. He's playing fetch with a dog and a goat that doesn't really seem to understand the concept of the game.]

[ Loki slowly ambles towards Thor, trying not to look too conspicuous, his eyebrows going up as he notices the dog and goat. ]

What are those.

Well this, Loki. This is a dog. [He gestures at the dog.]

And this is a goat. Goooaaat. [He elongates the word, as if Loki is an infant.]

I see.

[ His voice lowers to a drawl. ]

And you must be the fool looking to lose another eye. See, I'm picking it up already.

Very funny. [Thor says curtly, brushing off Loki's threat easily. He doesn't maintain eye contact long, turning to take the ball as Qiri drops it at his feet so he can pick it up and throw it. Hard.

Perhaps too hard, since it smashes through the fence on the other side of the yard. Both dog and goat trot over to inspect the perfect little ball shaped hole in the wood and Thor slumps his shoulders.]

Happens all the time.

[ Loki studies the damage with an intense expression before smoothing it over. That were no mere bumbling movement or a lack of gauging. No, this was something intense, buried deep down.]

I'm familiar with all your accidents, Thor.

What happened?

I threw a ball and it went through the fence. [Thor says, blandly. And he's obviously not exaggerating when he says it happens often, because he's found another ball to throw.

This time he uses restraint, and he decides it's easier to be honest.]

Sif is gone. And Bryn.

[ Ah. That would do it. Loki sidles closer, mindful of the distance between them as he sets the bottle down. ]

I have no doubt Bryn will find her way to the ship.

She might. [Thor says, it's not like him to rule anything out. He likes to imagine they'll all reunite, but he's skeptical, he finds it hard to imagine it will work out that way.]

But I don't think she will.

[ Carefully. ]

What do you think will happen then?

I think I'm not the only one with problems back home, and I shouldn't expect that everyone should leave their problems behind for mine.

[He says it just as carefully, he's obviously been thinking about it.]

I also think I have commitment issues. Primarily, the issue where I commit to someone and then everything goes to shit.

Expectation is one thing. Choice is another.

[ And from what Loki had heard, Bryn chose Thor. Why wouldn't she? Loki shuffles closer. ]

And this place is different. The state of affairs here and the way it conducts itself is different.

But she's not in this place anymore. [Thor's voice strains, he's trying not to be frustrated. It just feels futile.

Qiri returns the ball again, so he picks it up and throws it.]

There's no point trying to guess what might happen. It is what it is.

[ There is just something wrong about Thor being despondent. Loki doesn't begrudge him that but he is at a loss as to what to do. What should be done? Words are weak at a time like this, even from Loki. ]

Perhaps.

[ Hesitantly. ]

Would you prefer not to be alone right now?

I don't know what I prefer.

[He kind of wants to be alone, to wallow. He kind of doesn't want to wallow, doesn't want to think about how big and empty the house is.

He's been staring stubbornly forward for most of their conversation, but he glances toward Loki to fixate on him finally.]

I'm very good at repeating the same mistakes over and over, aren't I?

[ Loki doesn't say anything, but he reaches out to touch Thor's neck, much Thor would do for Loki. It is a little awkward, due to the height difference. Nevertheless Loki lets his hand rest there. ]

"Things rarely come as easily as they go, for that matter. It takes patience, and it comes and goes, but it happens." That is what you told me. And I remember that. I remember everything you tell me.

[ Because Thor is Loki's big brother. If Thor had said the world was flat, Loki would have believed him. He would have cursed, acted skeptical, maybe raged, but he would always believe. Loki lacks it in everything else but Thor. ]

I do not think it was a mistake. At least . . . not one of your making.

[It is a little awkward, but it's a welcome gesture. Thor even finds himself leaning into it, making it easier for Loki.

It doesn't stop him from rolling his eyes when Loki re-purposes his words. It does little to dull the flicker of appreciation he feels for Loki's honesty, which makes it hard to stop himself from smiling just a little.]

All I'm saying is, it's a little disappointing when the worst possible outcome is the one that comes to fruition. Even if you were expecting it. [He shrugs again, because he's trying to push through this without getting wet in the eyes.]

I thought I had longer.

[ It would be very easy to say that Loki had always claimed this. Has always said that living with mortals is finite and ultimately, it gnaws at the soul. You will never be ready. But Loki has been through enough possible outcomes, good and bad. They're still here. Loki's palm is cool against Thor's skin. ]

I know. I know you did.

[Thor bows his head in acceptance. In lieu of tears, storm clouds are starting to darken the sky overhead and it starts to drizzle. Thor is very aware of what he's doing, but he makes no move to stop or move to shelter.]

Last time I dealt with a break up, I went searching for Infinity Stones and prophecies. Now I'm not really sure what to do.

[ Loki barely manages to repress a shudder and his gaze darts away like a wild creature before it settles back into a sense of normalcy. Instead his fingers seek out forgotten empty tears that are not there. ]

You are a king of Asgard. You have your people. You have more than you know.

If you need time for grief, then take it. But you know what you must do.

I know that if everything had aligned for me like it did for her, I would have left. Without a doubt.

But my people aren't here. I'm just biding time until they can miraculously figure out how to send us home as well. Going to parties and drinking, not very kingly.

You don't have to be a king all the time. I certainly wasn't.

[ Why do you think he went out in a robe after a while. ]

And your people not being here does not mean you still cannot help pave the way. Get into a discussion with Stark about land. Have them in writing.

Then I don't want to be a king right now. I want to be a fool who put all of his eggs in one basket and sat on it.

[He's perfectly dour, even as he says that, but eventually his face cracks into the barest hint of a smile.]

You don't need to advise me. Just tell me I'm an idiot and find me something to drink and I'll be fine.

[ That remark startles him in a way. Loki was so ready to prove he's different. He can advise and help. But again, he's trying to be someone he's not, just so he could stay. That he's worthy enough to stay. ]

You're an idiot.

And I brought you something to drink, which you didn't notice at all. Not a single word of thanks either.

[What Loki can provide as an adviser is invaluable to Thor, but he can't deny the sense of comfort he gets from hearing a familiar phrase in a familiar tone.

It makes his smile linger, though it fades and he raises a brow down at the drink.]

Ah. [He looks back up at Loki.] Rude of you not to introduce us.

[ Loki pokes his chest with the bottle. ]

I'm rude? I don't see you getting any glasses. Thankfully, I'm more than capable of doing so.

[Thor grunts, just barely rolling his eyes before he steps away and toward the door.]

My apologies, your highness. [He bows, gesturing toward the door.] Please, enter at your leisure. You will be glad to know that there are plenty of glasses inside.

[ He sniffs, his nose held high. ]

Excellent. I'm glad to see you're civilized.

Homeownership really changes a man. You'll notice it's clean, and I had something to do with that. [He follows Loki through, and he's right. It's very tidy, decorated with relics that resemble Asgardian craftmanship as much as Bryn's heritage. It's as modern as it is rustic.

There's a couch in the room they walk into, with an open view of the garden and a very, very tidy liquor cabinet that is obviously in frequent use. Thor sets two glasses on the table in front of the couch.]

So, what are you up to lately? I worry about those idle hands of yours.

[ Loki is suitably impressed, though he doesn't say so. He starts pouring the wine into the glasses as he responds. ]

My hands are never idle, brother. And I've been working on procuring a theatre.

[Loki doesn't need to talk, the lack of a wrinkled nose speaks louder than words. Thor takes a glass, sitting himself back on the chair and raising a brow at Loki.]

Seems fitting. [He hasn't that play, though sometimes he wishes he could.] Are you going to create your own productions again? The world has been waiting with baited breath for your return to the arts.

[ His lips turn upwards with a smile, the flicker of golden sunlit amusement in his pale eyes. ]

Perhaps. I wouldn't deprive the world of that, now would I?

But I would not be against other stories taking the stage.

Generous of you. [Thor smiles in turn, wryly. It's comforting how easy it is to get lost in back and forth with Loki.]

Do you have any ideas for your next story? Walk me through it.

[ His expression stutters into confusion. ]

I — Really?

You don't have to act surprised whenever I take a genuine interest in your interests. [Thor chides.]

I'm genuinely curious. The last one was a very touching moment, but you'll be hard pressed to find an actor who looks even less like me this time around.

[ Look, it's just surprising to him every time. Even when it shouldn't be, Loki can't help it. He clears his throat awkwardly. ]

He fit the profile well enough.

I thought I'd put to pen some of the other tales we heard. Asgard's myths.

If that's the case, at least you know you'll always have an active audience here.

[Get it, because there's so many vikings.]

Is it going to have a big, gold statue of you outside of it?

A gold statue?

How little you know me.

[ There are gonna be statues everywhere. ]

[apropos of nothing: one cake delivered to Thor's address. It sort of just appears inside, with Thor's name on the box and also magically warded so his new roommates don't eat it. It's maple, bacon, bourbon and chocolate flavored, all together, because why the fuck not.

The real reason for this is that Taako was delighted by Thor giving Magnus shit on his behalf about the wedding thing, but he won't admit to that. So it's just a surprise cake for no reason whatsoever.]

[~~Obviously this is because he's the one true Ride or Die.~~

Thor isn't sure why he gets a cake, but he picks it up and eats it out of his hands like it's just a giant donut.

It's delicious.]

Thought you might like to know I'm not dead

I’m very glad to hear that. I assume it went well, then?

It went some kinda way, but I think we're cool. Next time you're after a booty call maybe try someone that Loki hates

You’d think that would be limiting but that doesn’t rule many people out.

[Ya gotta laff.]

Don’t worry about. What we had was good, but I think we both knew it wouldn’t continue past that night.

Oh I know.

I mean I would've gone a round two or five but I wasn't expecting my future boyfriend or whatever to show up

I was going to ask about that, actually. Did he come back after disappearing the first time?

I dunno if I'd call it coming back cause technically he was never here, it was just a hologram

Fucking weird timing though

Does he remember being a hologram?

It is weird timing. Maybe they decided they’ve fucked you around so much, they should do something nice for once.

If he remembered it wouldn't have been a hologram. He doesn't know shit

I dunno if it counts as something nice or if it's more getting fucked around

[Too much honesty there, maybe, but Thor won't tattle.]

Can't say I'd complain if they brought Bryn back.

Unless they sent her away again, so touche.

I gotta admit, I haven't got a whole lotta faith in this place to not find a way to keep fucking with us

I think the portal gets off on it

That I don’t doubt.

For the record, should I expect him to fly into a jealous rage too? It’s not that I don’t love being punched in the face, but a little warning is nice.

Nah he's not that sorta dude. We weren't together when it happened so he doesn't get to say shit about what I do, I don't fuck with that

[Loki is an exception]

I thought you were into that kind of thing.

[DON'T MAKE HIM SAY IT WITH WORDS, THOR]

Loki's the only asshole I know who gets to be possessive

I suppose that makes me your uncle.

[.........]

Oh fuck you. We've never even had sex

[So clearly its not Like That even though it is a little bit Like That]

I don't know how this works and I don't think I want to.

You fucking started it, I never said shit about it being a daddy thing. Because it isn't

I'm sorry, did you think you were being subtle?

There's nothing to be subtle about! It's not like that

Not like what?

Don't fucking play dumb with me, pumpkin. It's not a daddy thing

My apologies. I would hate to assume your mysterious, perverse relationship is some sort of straight-forward, perverse relationship.

[Rude!! But he's not letting Thor have this one]

You know I'm starting to wonder if you're jealous or something, since you're real focused on this

If you wanted me to call you daddy when we fucked you should've just asked, darling

First of all, no. Thank you.

Second of all, I have nothing to be jealous of.

Exactly, darling, there's nothing to be jealous of cause there's no weird kinky shit happening with me and Loki

[Check and mate]

I've never known Loki to be someone who squanders opportunities.

So I'm an opportunity, huh?

I very clearly meant the opportunity to do "weird, kinky shit".

Nice save

I'm not even into weird kinky stuff so you're still just talking shit

That should come as no surprise to you.

You're just trying to get a fucking rise outta me aren't you?

It's the only rise I'm going to get out of you now.

With an attitude like that it is

[He's just saying]

Have I offended you?

We're good, my man, I'm just giving you shit. Kinda figured it was fair play

I haven't figured out how to read nuance from text. Maybe you should use more emojis. 👍

[Because he's a shit:]

🍆🍆🍆🍆

never mind.

😭😭😭😭

I value your input.

[ When the message came in, Loki didn't believe it. After all, it seemed a little unreal to be able to travel back and return to Riverview. Like there was a catch. But if there was one, the locals weren't aware of it. Which didn't surprise him.

What surprised him was to learn that it was only him. No Thor. That . . .

It was late when Loki approaches Thor's house. He didn't sense Bryn. Perhaps she went to visit Taako. Which suits him fine. He didn't want to deal with any other company. Thor seemed to be dozing on the couch. There were cookie crumbs all over him and Loki huffed quietly, reaching out to brush them off. Ridiculous. Now that he's hear, words are failing him. What would he say? Oh, Thor, I'm being asked back to our world but without you, but I'm sure it's fine? Absolutely nothing will go wrong.

I won't be long.

It'll be fine.

I'll check up on Asgard. Without you.

Loki swallows. Deep down, he knew why he came to Thor this way. He was scared. What happens if he went through that portal? What awaited him there? Why just him? Every instinct in his body screamed that this would end badly. But he had to go. Didn't he? He said he would stay. With Asgard. And Loki had meant that. He didn't want to take it back out of fear alone.

No. He had to go. Without Thor.

Trembling, he reaches out to squeeze Thor's wrist. It shook badly and Loki could almost laugh at how pathetic he was. But he had to say something at least before he left. Quietly, barely above a whisper.]

Never — Never doubt. No matter how — [ Loki swallows. Sentiment. Still. ] — Do not doubt me.

[ With that, Loki presses a small kiss to Thor's hand before turning away. He had to make preparations before he left. He owed Riverview that much. ]

[Thor's days off are never particularly adventurous, but after his brush with illness his days are even less full. He feels perfectly fine, but the myriad of doctors and well-wishers around him prefer that he take it easy. He's a little bored of it, honestly, but he embraces to comfort of his life while he waits to go back to what promises to be a whirlwind of stress.

He awakens with a start, and he instantly knows something is wrong from the look on Loki's face. He listens intently, trying to withhold the barrage of questions he can feel brimming in his mind. He feels uncertainty, but Loki's assurance gives him confidence. In turn, he owes it to Loki to bolster his confidence too.]

You've tested my faith more than once, Loki, but I've never doubted that you'd find the right path.

[Thor smiles, it's sad. He can't hide the fact that he's nervous about what the future holds. Loki turns away, but Thor isn't ready for him to go just yet. He circles around him and sets his hand firmly on his neck and shoulder.]

Whatever happens.. [He starts, but he trails off just thinking about how wrong this could go.] Whatever happens, we'll find our happiness together. If not now, then next time. Or the time after that.

Idiot.

[ But it comes out hoarse and shaky rather than sharp and rude. The smile is so tremulous, it feels it might shatter at the slightest touch, but Loki forces it through, resting his hand over Thor's. ]

I won't be along.

[Thor rolls his eyes at the insult, but he smiles all the same. He locks eyes with Loki, holding his gaze.]

You'll promise to tell me everything. Absolutely everything.

[ Loki is startled how easily the lie comes to him. Of course he wouldn't. He couldn't. Not at this stage, not knowing how bad it might. What new depths Loki could reach, no matter what he promises. ]

That seems like a bit much, Thor. I doubt it's that bad.

Loki.

[Thor's voice is chiding, in the same soft, warning tone Frigga used when they were planning trouble.]

Promise me.

[ His expression falters. ]

Fine. I promise.

[Thor sees the falter, but he chooses to think nothing of it.]

Thank you. [His hand squeezes Loki's shoulder gently, dropping away.] Go on, then. You'd better get going.

[ Loki briefly makes an aborted move — to hold, to say something — but it dies quickly in its inception, his hand falling to his side weakly. ]

I'll . . . be back before you know it.

I trust you.

[And though it's said in reference to the length of his trip, they both know it goes beyond that.]

I'll see you soon, then.

[ Loki turns on his heel to leave (without magic) before he pauses, his back still to Thor.

Then he turns back to wrap his arms around Thor briefly, a tight squeeze. It barely lasts a second and Loki is already ducking his head and leaving through the door as if it never happened. ]

Come to [LOCATION] at 6pm on [DATE]. You may bring one date if you must.

[ how inviting. obviously the location is the location of a home and the date is sometime in mid-august that i don't want to settle on at the moment so YOLO. boom, come to a party. bring 1 friend. ]

Edited 2018-08-02 00:41 (UTC)

[ He considered knocking. Or announcing his presence somehow. But instead he just appears nearby, hands clasped behind his back. He's still nervous, especially since Thor knows part of the truth.

You really are the worst brother. ]

Thor.

[An announcement would have been preferable, given that Loki's sudden appearance makes Thor jolt.

There's a cup of dog food in his hand, but it spills over the floor and onto his feet, prompting Qiri to begin frenzied scoffing to make sure he doesn't miss a bit of it.

Thor steps around the dog, kicking kibble off his feet as he does. Loki's presence brings an ache to his chest that he's been struggling to ignore, and Thor wonders if he's here to drag him out of the lie they've both been living for the past month. He folds his arms low over his chest and leans back against the counter, restraining himself from grabbing Loki by the collar and shaking him.]

Is there something you want to tell me?

[Because he's pretty sure Taako doesn't keep these things to himself.]

[ Loki swallows, feeling the ache in his throat, one that hasn't quite left him, even though the wound has long healed. The urge to touch it is overwhelming now, especially with Thor's gaze on him. ]

I . . . would have preferred not to. It is an old story, in a way. The ending was long decided when I failed on Earth.

[ If he keeps talking, then maybe he won't shatter. He has dealt with dying so many times and Loki hates that the weakness ails him now, when all those other times, he didn't mind it. He didn't care. But it was ironic that Thanos would take that from him, when he started to care. ]

I took the Tessaract because . . . because I thought we might need it. I gave it to him because he was going to kill you. And I fought him because . . . I am an Odinson. He killed me but you — you survived.

[ And his voice cracks because it was the happiest news he had ever gotten from Stark, from anyone. Thor was alive and at least something that Loki did was good. Tentatively he looks up at Thor. ]

I'm sorry. I am a poor creature and a poorer brother. I always was.

[Thor's ability to remain resilient in the face of loss is probably his strongest quality, so it should say something when he can barely stop his lip quivering when Loki speaks.

He grips the counter behind him so hard that his knuckles are white, and while he's looking at Loki, it's almost as if he's looking past him as he speaks. He's thought about it, and he's sure Loki had a brilliant plan with the Tessaract. It might have worked. Might have.

The word Odinson, however, seems to pull his focus back. It forces him to look Loki in the eye, letting him see the tears forming already. He pushes himself off from the counter, squaring his shoulders as he steps into Loki's personal space like he means to harm him.

Instead, his hands find Loki's shoulders and they grip him tightly. Reminding him that he's here and living.]

You were always my brother. [Thor modifies Loki's claim.] And you always will be.

[ Loki feels himself crumpling, piece by piece as he struggles not to wrap his own arms around Thor, to lean into his brother's warmth. He is undeserving, pathetic even at the end of days. That was his song, his final voice. But other people . . . they were not tired of him. He shudders. ]

I was the worst. The utter worst.

. . . But I didn't want to go.

[Thor's hesitation melts away as he lets himself feel everything he's held at bay so far. He wasn't ashamed to cry in front of Taako, but he maintained some composure for him and then kept it all to himself from then on.

His head leans down so he can rest their foreheads together, briefly. Loki has been a trouble to him, he won't deny it. Maybe his life would be easier without him, without the betrayal and the search and the fight for him. Maybe this was the only way to rest that cycle.

Maybe. But Thor's world already seems bleaker for it. The glimmers of hope he had for the future are fading with every word he hears about their future. The picture he's had in his head of their battle and their victory together is crumpling far sooner than he thought.]

I don't want you to go. [Thor echoes, soulful. His voice shudders when he says it.] I don't want to live through it.

[ Oh. Oh Thor. Never had Loki thought his brother would say that and his heart aches. Selfish. He knew that but he could never bear Thor's suffering that well. It seemed too heavy a thing for him to truly wish to cause, even when he was bitter. He leans against Thor, brushing his fingers against Thor's neck, soothing and cool. ]

You need to live. And when you'll come back — I'll be here.

[Thor inhales through his nose and breathes out, slowly, through his mouth. It does little to stop the tears, but it stops him from being the blubbering mess he could be.

His hand moves to rest over Loki's and he squeezes his eyes shut, letting himself be soothed. He's desperately wanting Loki to reveal a trick or a misdirection that he's been hiding until now.

Instead, he instills in Thor what he already knew was inevitable and he grits his teeth, clenching his jaw for a moment before he opens his eyes again.]

They're sending me, soon. They told me the other day, everything is almost in order.

[ He wonders which is worse. Loki telling Thor now and Thor returning to that time or if Loki had staved it off. There is no right answer, he finds. And Loki has never liked ignorance, even when he chooses to wield it as his weapon of choice. Instead Loki wipes away Thor's tears as if they were his own. Someone who was crying for him.

What a strange and hurtful thing. Not to be meaningless. What was he, Loki, supposed to do with that? He forces a tremulous smile. ]

Go and make me proud.

[If Loki of all people can force a smile through this, Thor can too. He smiles past the tears, warm as ever as he studies Loki's face. He can't count how many times he's longed for this feeling of resolution with his brother, where everything feels so absolute.

That it came at such a cost is so cruel, it almost makes Thor want to laugh. It exasperates him to know that he has everything here and that he will have to willingly return to nothing. It's as if happiness together is an unattainable goal. Something that comes and goes as it pleases, moving further and further out of reach.

He shuts his eyes, letting Loki wipe away his tears before he opens them again. His gaze is softer this time, he's growing to be at peace with his fate. Somehow.]

You've already made me prouder than you'll ever know. [Thor lets himself laugh, lightly.] Proud and terribly, terribly frustrated.

Proud?

I — Why?

All those years ago, when you said you did everything you did for all of us- I don't really think I believed you.

[Thor's smile tenses, because it's a tetchy subject. His hand finds the ever familiar place on Loki's neck and shoulder and he squeezes.]

But I do now.

[ Thor wasn't wrong. There was only one person Loki would do this for. It hadn't changed when they went to Svartalfheim. And it hasn't changed now. His head bows from the weight. I could have done it. The words were a scar on his soul that never fully healed after his fall from the Bifrost. After his father had told him otherwise. His life was spent chasing after that phantom wish.

Was it true, finally? He blinks away the wet sheen from his eyes. ]

I didn't. I did it for you.

I don't know what the future holds, but I know this- I'll kill him. For you.

[There's no uncertainty, Thor's voice is still soft for Loki but it still holds a threat to it. As if he expects Thanos can hear him from here.]

[ Loki nods, though whether he believes is another matter altogether. But if Thor believes it, so can Loki. ]

When I — fell long ago . . . he was the one who found me. Who — taught me many things. Things I never wanted, but I thought — I thought it would make it easier.

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