The celebrations lasted well beyond three days. Ambassadors from all corners of the Nine Realms came to honour the Crown Prince of Asgard's betrothal. The only ones absent were the Frost Giants from Jotünheim. There was peace between Odin and their leader, Laufey, but that did not mean they would feast together. Odin defeated the Jotüns long ago during the last war, and their King had no choice but to accept the Allfather's terms, but he held a violent grudge against the Asgardians ever since. Thus Laufey had 'respectfully declined' to attend. None were too bereft.
During the festivities, Sigyn met with the people of Asgard. She spoke with all, no matter their station. The servants, the baker, the blacksmith, the guards... None were beneath her. And all loved her so much for it, it even reached the ear of the royal family.
Odin would request Sigyn to walk with him to dinner to ask about her day, whilst Frigga invited her to afternoon tea in the garden. When Thor was not training with the other warriors or out riding, he spent every moment he could with her. Even Loki, who usually kept to himself, sought her company. And every day, Sigyn still surprised them all.

About a week after Sigyn's arrival, Thor took her to the main square. Sigyn had told him of her secluded life, and he'd asked his mother for advice. Thor adored his mother for suggesting a visit to the morning market, for Sigyn now walked around with the biggest smile, delighted by all the colours, sounds and smells.

"Thor, this is amazing!" she exclaimed happily. "I've never seen anything like this!"

"You do not have markets at home?" he wondered aloud as he watched her dart from stall to stall.

"We do, but none are so... so... well, they aren't like this one!"

The sound of children laughing up ahead caught their attention. A puppeteer displayed the most beautiful marionettes in the centre of the square and made some move and speak. Thor knew the old man well. He often came here as a child himself until he outgrew the need to hear of legends and desired to become one instead.
The children were watching a play of selks and other sea creatures. Sigyn laughed along with them and leaned against Thor, slipping her hand into his. He glimpsed down at her. Since he misspoke that first day, Thor had carefully looked at all the other qualities Sigyn possessed. She was quick-witted, intelligent, and mindful of others, but above all, she had the kindest heart Thor had ever seen, apart from his mother's. There was no doubt Sigyn would one day make an excellent Queen. He only hoped he was worthy of her.

One child grew tired of the play and turned her gaze to Thor and Sigyn. The little girl was perhaps five or six summers old, and Thor caught her staring at Sigyn's blood-red hair, which hung loosely over her shoulder, with only a silver hair ribbon keeping it out for her face. Sigyn noticed the girl as well, and she knelt before her. Thor followed her example, curious about what she would do.

"Hello," Sigyn greeted her kindly. "What's your name?"

"Rúna," answered the girl shyly.

"Mine's Sigyn. Was there something you wanted to ask me, Rúna?"

"Mm... why is your hair so red?"

"Well, it was a gift. My parents gave it to me. Do you like it?"

The girl nodded. She stretched out her hand, seeming to touch a lock of hair, but halted a few inches away. Sigyn turned to Thor and asked, "Do you have a knife with you?"

Thor tilted his head quizzically at the odd request but handed his betrothed the dagger he had on his belt, certain she meant no harm to the little girl. Sigyn grabbed a lock of her hair. The blade cut through, and she handed it over to Rúna.

"My gift to you. It will never lose its colour, I promise. Why don't you weave it into a floral crown or headband? Then you can wear it whenever you like."

Rúna's eyes widened in joy, and she jumped into Sigyn's arms. The two hugged, and then the little girl ran home, clutching the luck to her chest. Thor helped Sigyn to her feet, in awe of what she had just done.

"Why did you do that?" he asked.

Sigyn shrugged. "I knew it would make her happy. It's not the first time a girl wishes she had my hair. I'm not sure why. I've always hated it."

"You shouldn't hate it. It's... magical, really. When the sun shines on it, it blazes like a fire."

The smile on Sigyn's lips wavered. "Maybe... Maybe we should go back? They'll be missing us."

Thor raised a brow at the abrupt change of topic, but made no mention of it. They were yet getting to know each other, and in time, he was certain to learn all there was to learn about his betrothed. Though he considered himself an open book, he, too, had things he didn't want Sigyn to know about just yet.
Following Sigyn's request to return to the palace, Thor took a longer way around, passing an arched overlook that lead them to Frigga's garden. Sigyn listened to his every word as he lingered a moment to point out some important landmarks within Asgard. But when Thor moved behind Sigyn and told her to look past his stretched arm at the statue of one of his ancestors, something happened.

The Crown Prince realised he had inadvertently placed his other hand on Sigyn's hip. Her head turned sideways to him. Her wondering eyes, deep green and shining like precious emerald, drew him in. His body pressed against hers, as his lips touched her cheek, and then the corner of her mouth. Sigyn turned in his arms just as he leaned in again, and Thor's lips were on hers.
Fully aware this was their first kiss and that he probably shouldn't have instigated it like his, Thor began to draw away. But much to his surprise, Sigyn's arms slipped around his neck, her fingers entangling in his golden hair. Thor smiled in their kiss. Of all the maidens he had brought here — and there were more than a few — it was Sigyn who now warmed his heart to the possibility that love, the same love spoken of in the tales of old, could happen for him.

If only he hadn't asked her to the training grounds later that day.

***

Well, isn't that sweet? Looks like those two are getting closer every day.

Loki watched Thor and Sigyn from his hiding spot between the trees. When he saw the pair leave that morning, he suspected Thor would make his way back via the overlook. He had done it so many times before, Loki lost count.
It became so predictable after a while that the women in Asgard had even made a game of it. They would challenge one among them to seduce Thor, and if he took the woman up on the overlook, the fortunate winner could name one of the others as her handmaiden for one week. The challenge was rarely lost. Loki was fairly certain Sigyn did not know of this. He would, of course, make sure she was properly informed.

As Thor and his betrothed left the overlook, Loki stepped into the light. He was about to return to the palace as well when something caught his eye. Sigyn's hair shone under a ray of sun, and a golden glow appeared around her figure. Loki's breath caught. His pulse quickened. That seemed to happen more and more lately. It was most unsettling.
For the life of him, Loki couldn't understand why the maiden had such an effect on him. And he refused to discuss it with his mother. He could already imagine her reaction. The last thing he needed was Frigga keeping an eye on him.
No, if he were to go through with this scheme, Loki would require privacy. First things first, though. He needed to know more about Sigyn. And for that, he would reach out to a certain companion.

***

Sigyn was happy. It was a feeling unknown to her, yet there it was. At least, she thought it was happiness. She had barely experienced it at home, so she wasn't entirely certain if this was how it felt. But if this was it, it was a good feeling. Fuzzy. And warm. She just couldn't stop smiling. Frigga even remarked it when she joined her and Thor in the garden for lunch, as had Loki.

Loki...

Sigyn had stolen a few glances his way when she believed no one was looking. There was something about him. Something... peculiar. He was nothing like his family. Well, perhaps a little like Frigga, but he shared nothing with his father or his brother.
Thor was broad-shouldered and muscular, with thick golden hair, whereas Loki was slender and had fair raven hair. Thor loved to fight, brawl, and laugh while Loki was calm, studious and... calculating, maybe? And he had magic — something else the youngest Prince only had in common with his mother. Sigyn was still unsure if he could really be trusted with her secret, but Loki hadn't betrayed her trust in this so far.
Her eyes wandered to the rose Loki had given her. She'd put it in an earth vase on the table beside her bed and gently stroked the petals every night before she went to sleep. The white and blue bloom had not yet withered. If anything, it only grew more beautiful with each passing day. Perhaps it was part of the magic within.

"All done!" announced Astrid proudly.

Sigyn startled at her friend's voice. She peered at her reflection in the mirror and nodded approvingly. Astrid always knew just how to make the most intricate braids of her long hair, perfect for riding or, as today was the case, training. Thor had invited her to join him that afternoon. Finally, she could show them all what she was truly capable of.

"Sigyn," Astrid hesitated a moment, "forgive me, but are you sure you want to go? I mean, after last time..."

Sigyn sighed. "That was Björn's fault. I haven't trained since then and need to keep up my skills."

"I know that, but still —"

"That won't happen today." Sigyn turned to face her friend. "I'm happy. I think. And my brothers are not here to harass me. Things will be different. I will not lose control."

"I hope so."

Sigyn took Astrid's hands upon seeing her friend's worried expression. "There's something else, isn't there?"

"Just... Loki stopped by earlier."

"Loki?" Sigyn raised a brow at the mention of his name. "What did he want?"

"We... know each other." Astrid averted her gaze. "From years ago. We met when my mother and I were invited to a feast during one of our visits here. My... affair with him didn't last very long. Suffice to say, it meant very little to both of us, and we merely warmed each other's beds for a few nights. We are, of course, courteous when we see each other, but nothing else, I swear."

Sigyn pressed her lips together. She did her best to ignore that her best and only friend knew the youngest Prince more intimately than she cared to admit, but that Loki would approach Astrid now for no real reason could only mean one thing; he was up to something. By now, Sigyn was fully aware of his reputation as the Trickster, and she hadn't forgotten about the little stunt he pulled that first night.

"Astrid, what did he want?" she repeated.

"He wanted me to tell you that... he will personally ensure the women of Asgard understand they can no longer seek Thor's affection. And he will also make sure the, um... overlook will be off-limits to any who do not live within the palace."

"That's a very specific message. I will have to thank Loki for his consideration, but also make it clear I am perfectly capable of drawing my own conclusions and not judge someone by what may or may not have happened in the past."

Her friend nodded, yet Sigyn still saw the hesitation in her eyes.

"Something else?" she inquired.

"I'm not sure," said Astrid. "I was mending the string on your bow when he came. It snapped during the voyage here, but I hadn't got around to restring it. Loki grabbed hold of it before I could stop him and remarked it was a fine weapon for a fine maiden like yourself. I didn't like the way he looked when he left."

Sigyn hummed silently. She began to see a strategy in play.

"You were right to tell me," she said. "Is the bow strung now?"

"Yes, and your arrows are in order as well."

"Good, I'll take them with me."

Astrid's eyes widened. "Sigyn, I really don't think you should —"

"If Prince Loki is so interested in my bow and my skills as an archer, I am certain he won't mind rising to the challenge now, will he? Let's go."

***

Sigyn stood in awe at the bustle when she arrived at the training grounds, dressed in full armour with her bow in hand. She gazed upon the many warriors and their magnificent weapons. It was all so different from home. There, she only had a small yard, completely shielded from the outside world, where her brothers constantly kept a watchful eye on her every move.
But they weren't here now. She would not hear their jeers nor be the victim of their abuse. Neither were her parents here to scoff at her. Today would be different. She would show her abilities and seek advice from skilled warriors. And there would be no incidents.

From what Astrid told Sigyn, the training grounds were not as crowded today as they usually were. Many were still recovering from the lengthy feast, and with no war going on, the commanders were less strict on mandatory participation. Those who were present were hard at work, training alone or with each other. Some interrupted their training to bow at Sigyn, while others gave both young women an approving nod at their appearance.

"Sigyn!" Thor called out as he saw his fiancée coming toward his troupe. "Well met!"

He ran up to Sigyn and picked her off her feet. Her cheeks heated when Thor then publicly pressed his lips to hers. His radiant smile cast any reservation she held aside, though, and she embraced him fondly.

"Come," he set her down and took her by the hand, "allow me to introduce Lady Sif and the Warriors Three."

The two men who stood aside bowed deeply to Sigyn. The third tried to do the same, but he made the mistake of taking his eyes off his opponent, the woman Thor had introduced as Lady Sif. She took advantage of the distraction Sigyn's arrival provided and struck at her adversary, making the man twice her size land flat on his back. He hit the ground with a loud grunt, making the other two men and Thor laugh heartily.

"Ow! Sif!" exclaimed the giant in protest. "In Odin's name, did you have to hit me so hard?"

"All is fair on the battlefield, Volstagg," said Sif with a grin. "I merely took my chance."

"Yes, but that is no way to greet our future Queen." Volstagg scrambled up, only to get down on one knee before Sigyn. "My Lady, an honour to meet you at last. We've heard many tales of you, but they hardly do you justice."

Sigyn allowed Volstagg to take her hand and kiss it before he rose. She gave him an amused look. "Many tales? Of what, pray tell?"

She caught Thor from the corner of her eyes, waving wildly and shaking his head at Volstagg. The long-bearded, broad-shouldered giant stammered but was quickly aided by his comrade, the blond, fair-skinned warrior with a neatly trimmed beard, who was slightly less muscular than his friend.

"Tales of your kindness, gentle nature... and of your sharp tongue." He winked and took Sigyn's hand to kiss, just like Volstagg had done. "Fandrall, at your service, my Lady. And this puny, silent man is Hogun."

The third man may have been the smallest, but Sigyn could tell he was not to be underestimated. His complexion was darker, his black hair was bound in a bun, and he was clean-shaven. Hogun did not take Sigyn's hand but looked at her blood-red hair and spoke, "The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all."

Sigyn curiously tilted her head. Astrid's eyes flashed between her and the black-haired warrior whilst Thor's widened in horror, undoubtedly fearing what might happen. Normally, she would react sharply to a comment about her beauty, but there lay something deeper in Hogun's meaning. For once, she decided to allow it.

"I suppose it is," she spoke kindly. "Then again, it is a good thing we all have adversity within us, is it not? I imagine life would be very dull if everyone was the same."

Hogun bowed his head and stepped back, whilst Thor sighed in visible relief. Now the only one left to meet was Lady Sif. Sigyn seized the woman up. Her strong-jawed face was framed by long black hair falling loosely over her shoulders. Her armour was like Sigyn and Astrid's, fitting her body perfectly. A bond of friendship could come from their mutual interests in the warrior's ways. But Sigyn noticed the jealousy in the woman's stare, no matter how well she kept it hidden from the others. Jealousy towards Sigyn and the way Thor gazed at her.
Sif stayed in place, sword in hand, and merely greeted Sigyn with a curt nod. Then she turned her attention toward Astrid, showing far more respect to the handmaiden than the future Princess. Sigyn had to remind herself Astrid was Asgardian. It stood to reason these people knew her. If not personally, then through her father, who died a general of the Einherjar in the war against the Olympians.

"It's been some time, Astrid," said Sif. "How about we continue our last lesson?"

"Oh, I would be delighted to instruct you further, Sif," returned Astrid with a grin. "From what I just observed, you sorely need it."

"Don't worry." Thor smirked at Sigyn as the female warriors began their sparring match. "Few women fight as Sif and Astrid do. They won't hurt each other. Much."

"Oh, I'm not worried," replied Sigyn. "I might try my hand later as well."

Her betrothed frowned at her. "Against Sif?"

"Or you, if you're up to it."

The forced smile on Thor's face did not escape Sigyn. Did he imagine she was incapable of sparring with him, perhaps? That she was weak? Or... did he not want to spar with her? She meant to ask, but just then, the second Odinson appeared behind Sigyn and put his hand on her shoulder as if they were the best of friends.

"Well, look who showed," said Loki. "And with a bow, no less. Guess I finally have someone new to train with then. Come, the archery range is this way."

The Prince pulled Sigyn away from Thor. He was about to follow, but was distracted when the Warriors Three started shouting as Astrid and Sif's swords clashed together. While Fandrall and Hogun took Astrid's side, Thor joined Volstagg in cheering for Sif.
Sigyn ignored them, yet perturbed by Thor's reaction. Why shouldn't she train with Sif? Or with him, for that matter? It wasn't as if she lacked basic skills. She'd fought her brothers on plenty of occasions. Admittedly, they always got the better of her, but she held her own. Yet it seemed as if Thor was reluctant to even give her a chance. Loki, on the other hand, seemed delighted at having her as a training partner.
When they got to the archery range, the Prince took his bow from a servant and put his arrows in his quiver. All safe one, which he immediately nocked. He barely took the time to aim before he loosened the arrow. It almost hit the bull's eye. Sigyn was only mildly impressed. But maybe that was more because of the growing feeling of irritation within her. And then, of course, there was still that other matter.

"What do you think you're doing?" she demanded in a low voice.

"I'm training, which I do believe is the point of coming here." Loki threw her a sideways glance. "Aren't you going to shoot an arrow or two?"

"Do not patronise me, Loki!" hissed Sigyn. "Whatever you're planning, it won't work."

"Why would you think I'm planning something?"

"Your 'message' about Thor and the overlook? And let's not forget your o so subtle hints at lunch about how I might enjoy coming here."

"I'm flattered you would think so highly of my orchestrating skills." He loosened another arrow.

"So it's a coincidence I'm training with you and not my betrothed?"

Another arrow. "Completely."

"Will you stop shooting arrows and not hitting the target for one second?" Sigyn shoved his shoulder to make him face her.

Loki stared at her, somewhat stunned at her aggressiveness, but then scoffed. "Sigyn, I meant nothing by hinting to Thor he should invite you here. You've seen every inch of the palace and the town, but not the training grounds. My brother rarely thinks of inviting women here. You may have noticed that today's participants are almost all men, except for Sif, and now you and Astrid."

"What of the overlook? You saw us there, didn't you?"

"Maybe, maybe not." Loki gave a little shrug. "Thor always takes women up there. They sometimes wait there for him too. He is the Crown Prince, after all; it comes with the job. But he seems serious about you, so I want to make sure neither of you will be bothered. The overlook could become special to you."

Sigyn sneered at him. "How considerate of you."

"It is, actually. I don't do this for just anyone."

"And Astrid?"

Loki raised a brow. "What about Astrid?"

"She told me of how you two... What are your intentions with her?"

"I hardly think that is any of your concern."

"She's my only friend, Loki. You hurt her, and I assure you, it will be my concern."

Loki looked like he was about to rebuff her threat, but nothing came out of his half-open mouth.

"Oh, no smart remark from the Trickster?" dared Sigyn. "Have I stumped you?"

When Loki's eyes suddenly widened, Sigyn followed his gaze. The wood of her bow glowed red at her firm grip. Smoke circled up, and she smelled the scent of burning wood. Loki hastily moved to hide her from view.

"Calm down," he whispered from behind her. "Sigyn, you need to calm down."

But that was easier said than done. Sigyn's entire body felt like bursting into flames. She gasped for air, holding on to her bow with all her might. Loki snaked his arm around her, laying one hand flat on her belly, and pulled her back by her shoulder. His voice sounded distant as he spoke to her. "Close your eyes. Deep breaths. Let go of your anger."

Cool air filled Sigyn's lungs. Her heart-rate slowed. And as her breathing calmed, she realised just how close the raven-haired Prince stood against her — too close. Loki's lips were at her ear. If she turned her head, they would touch her cheek. And her hand... When had she placed it on top of the one he had on her belly?
Loki seemed to come to the same realisation, for he slowly slipped his hand from underneath hers. A quaint sensation seized hold of Sigyn. A longing to be touched like that again. To hear his soothing, whispering voice. But instead of speaking, Loki kept quiet. He made her raise her bow and took an arrow out of her quiver to nock it for her.

"Wh-What are you...?" Sigyn stammered, confused.

"Instructing you on your stance," said Loki.

"My stance is perfect. If anything, I should teach you."

"Hush, they're watching."

Sigyn doubted his word, but she couldn't risk looking back over her shoulder. If Thor and the others really were watching, then the way this looked could indeed be misinterpreted. Badly. She let Loki 'instruct her' on how to draw back the string. He let go, stepped away and said in a clear voice, "And release!"

After adjusting her stance and aim ever so slightly, without Loki noticing, Sigyn let the arrow fly. It hit the very centre of the target.

"Nice shot!"

Sigyn jumped at the sound of Thor's voice, nearer than she'd expected him to be. She turned to find him, the Warriors Three, Sif, and Astrid looking at her and Loki.

"Who knew you were such a good teacher, brother? But be careful. You instruct her any further, and she will surpass you. Her one arrow was better than any of yours. Of course, only a beginner's luck. It takes years to perfect one's archery. But with further training, we'll accomplish this, making my wife a true warrior and worthy of standing by my side. Sigyn, try —"

Thor stopped dead in his tracks as Sigyn's second arrow pierced the one already sticking in the centre. She drew another arrow from her quiver and another and another. All of Loki's arrows were split in two in mere seconds. Sigyn then whirled around, her sixth arrow flying straight towards Thor. The tip nicked his cheek as it flew past him, lodging itself into a tree. It wasn't until the blood trickled down that Thor's hand slowly moved to his face. His eyes widened in shock as he saw the red on his fingertips.

"Next time, it will be your eye," growled Sigyn menacingly.

***

Loki had, of course, expected Thor to say or do something to upset Sigyn, as he wouldn't expect his betrothed to be a warrior like Sif. After seeing the bow in her room, Loki knew the training grounds would be the perfect setting for another argument, which was why he had hinted she should meet Thor there. And though it didn't surprise him to see Sigyn act out against his brother's condescending attitude, he had never expected nor wanted the young woman to attack Thor like this.
He held his breath, hoping Sigyn's magic wouldn't flare up again. It was clear she had no control over it, and if it was linked to her emotions, particularly anger, they could all be in grave danger. Loki's eyes flashed to Thor. His brother stared at the blood on his fingers. This would not end well. He had to step in before it got out of hand.

"Now," Loki held his hands up as he put himself between his brother and Sigyn, "why don't we all calm ourselves before we do something stupid? Sigyn, put the bow down please."

But she wouldn't budge. The maiden glared dangerously at Thor, who seemed only too eager to return the favour.

"This is just a misunderstanding," tried Loki again. "Thor, it wasn't right of you to assume she was a beginner just because I showed her a different stance. Sigyn, he didn't know any better, so you mustn't blame him. There's no need for —"

"YOU DARE TO MAKE THE SON OF ODIN BLEED?"

Damn!

Before Loki could stop his brother, Thor had already thrown his sword at Sigyn. She moved amazingly fast, spinning sideways to avoid the sword, and by the time she faced Thor again, another arrow already flew in his direction. He narrowly escaped it. If he hadn't, Sigyn would've made good on her threat and struck him right in his eye.
Sif, the stupid cow, called to Thor and threw him her own sword, which he caught deftly with one hand. Astrid ran toward Sigyn and took hold of the bow to prevent her friend from firing more arrows at the Crown Prince. But Sigyn pushed Astrid off, snatching her friend's sword from her as she fell. Steel clung against steel as Thor and Sigyn danced over the archery range. All the other warriors ceased their training instantly to see what was going on.

"We cannot let this continue," said Fandrall as he came to Loki's side. "This is beyond a simple training match."

"But you have to admire the way she blocks his attacks," noted an impressed Volstagg.

Loki helped Astrid up, ignoring the Warriors Three.

"You have to stop her before she loses control, Loki," she urged. "Sigyn can't —"

"I know," he said. "Fetch Odin; he will be with my mother in her garden. Quickly!"

Astrid sprinted away, and Loki turned his attention back to the fight. Things were getting worse. Sigyn seemed as fast with her sword as with her bow and arrow. She managed to strike at Thor several times, which only angered the Crown Prince more. When he lost his sword after a painful smack on the wrist, Thor swung at Sigyn with his fists, but she dodged each punch by jumping back. Then Loki saw his brother stretching out his hand. By all the ancestors in Valhalla, no! Was he seriously mad enough to summon Mjölnir?

Using his magic, Loki summoned his daggers and threw them at Sigyn. She saw the blades coming and avoided all by dancing between them, which he found a remarkable feat, despite the harrowing situation. But if Loki had meant to hurt her, he would've done something else. By throwing his daggers, he not only distracted Sigyn from Thor, but created further distance between them.
He didn't hesitate a moment longer and rushed toward her, nearly recoiling at the heat radiating from her body. When he saw the melting sword in Sigyn's hand, he gasped in horror. Her magic was flaring up, just like he feared. A pair of fiery rubies met his frightening gaze. How could Thor not have noticed any of this?

"Sigyn, stop! Your powers are unstable; you're going to kill him!" The ruby shine flickered, and the heat wavered ever so slightly. Loki dared to reach for her. "That's it. Easy now. Just calm —"

A heavy object suddenly hit Loki's side, and he slammed hard against the ground. His ears rang from the impact, but he still heard Volstagg and Fandrall yell Thor's name. Then... nothing. Absolute silence.
Loki scrambled up and froze at the sight before him. Sigyn, her hair blazing like wildfire, had stopped Thor's attack. Or rather, she had stopped Mjölnir. Her nails dug into the head of the hammer, making the metal melt.

"Impossible," whispered Thor, awestruck at what he was witnessing.

"Call it back," said Loki. "Thor, get Mjölnir back before she destroys it!"

But Thor shoved Loki aside and ran to his hammer. With a great roar, he grasped the handle and then pushed hard. Sigyn stumbled, but still kept Mjölnir and Thor at bay. The Crown Prince screamed in pain as Sigyn's heat burned his skin. Lightning crackled around Mjölnir. Loki, the Warriors Three and Sif ran to Thor and Sigyn, but it was already too late. They were blown back by an immense force as lightning and fire met and exploded with a big bang.
When Loki got back up, he saw his brother face down in the dirt. He saw Mjölnir beside Thor, glowing red as it had just been struck at the forge, the top of the head still melting. He saw Sigyn, her armour burned away in some places, revealing her pale skin.
And he saw the flames dying at her hands before anyone else did.