"Where is she!" you yell out over another strong contraction.

"I'm sure she won't be long darling" Loki reassured, snapping his head to Brena for the tenth time, seeking updates on Skargg and Astrid's current location. Brena quickly rushed from the doorway and darted down the hall, yelling at anyone for information.

"It's almost time to push my Queen. You're nearly fully dialated" Dasani smiled, excited. Popping her head up from between your legs.

"Are you comfortable darling. Do you need another pillow, or or... perhaps a book?" Loki says, exhausting all ideas to help calm you.

"A book? Seriously Loki. How about more of your soothing magic. I need more. Give me mor-arrgh!" you whine out through another cruel contraction.

"It's not safe to use more sweetheart. I gave you a top up not long ago. I cannot flood your body with more magic right now. We need to keep to safe levels, as we don't know the repercussion it may have on our son" he said sadly, burdened with deep guilt at your suffering.

You sighed, and another bead of sweat fell from your forehead. Loki quickly dabbed it away with a warm cloth and you flumped back onto the bed, exhausted.

"Okay" you relent, understanding there was nothing else available to relieve you. "Then perhaps a book will help. Will you read to me please"

Loki grinned wide, happy to finally contribute. He hated not being able to do anything other than hold your hand and blot away sweat. He was desperate to be of more use.

He quickly conjured up one of your favourite book of poems and immediately flipped the pages, stopping at chapter nine. He knew this particular poem touched you deeply.

Usually he didn't prefer reading anything after the Victorian era, past the late 1800's. Insisting modern literature on Midgard lost its charm after that point. But you introduced him to a lesser known Welsh poet, born within the small country of Wales, in the early 19th century. And he had to admit, he throughly enjoyed his works.

He began reading, while stroking gentle circles over your belly. And you smiled, relaxing into the many pillows he piled underneath you.

You turned to look at him, and watched his eyes move across the words as he read. He read each syllable so beautifully, it almost romanticised the hauntingly deep words that expressed grief and sorrow. The poems mood being rather dark. And as he finished the last sentence, you saw a tiny blob of wetness form within the corner of his eye and you knew it touched his heart too.

"Thank you Loki" you say, tearing up.

He snapped his eyes to you, and saw you crying "oh my love. Is the pain too much? I'm so sorry that I did this to you my Queen" he said full of guilt.

"No my King. The pain is tolerable" you lie "I weep because I love you, because you're my everything, and I'm so thankful our son is blessed having you as a father"

Loki snapped the book closed and quickly leaned next to you. His eyes on the verge of full on tears.

"Thank you my Queen. For all your sacrifices and for all your love"

He softly held your chin as he moved closer and delicately planted a kiss on your lips. "All of the good in my life, is because of you" he whispers and you sigh in besotted contentment. Knowing all the pain will be worth it.

In the short moment of no pain, you silently connect your foreheads. Flooding each other with your love as you both breathe in sync.

Your chamber doors suddenly burst open and in ran Queen Frigga, waving her hands manically in the air.

"I'm here, I'm here! where is my daughter!" she stopped half way towards you when she noticed your sweat filled face. "Oh my dear child. You look beautiful"

You snort a laugh, knowing you likely look like a messy mass of sweat. Your face exhibiting the same colour as a baboons ass. But you appreciated the sweet sentiment and kind words.

"Ma Belle!" Kai exclaims.

Your eyes widen "Kai?!" you say surprised, observing him walk through the doorway. "you're here?!" you grin.

"Me too Sister!" Thor interrupted, darting through the double doors, and you wholeheartedly smile at your favourite people as they each walk over and kiss the top of your head.

But they all saw you sigh, as you continued to stare at the doorway. Desperately hoping another would walk through.

But he didn't.

Your face scrunched up and you began to bawl, sobbing hysterically as the image of Huggin stayed within your mind.

Loki gripped you into his chest, and held you. Gently rocking you back and forth. "We'll find him Darling. We will"

You suddenly yelled out a fierce scream feeling immense pain. And to Loki's relief, Astrid suddenly appeared, but now the room became extremely congested. With the many healers and now the addition of your family, it became hard to breathe.

"Oh dear. Her position is not good" Astrid said, having a quick peak at your progress. "Pushing will commence any moment, but I can see now you're going to need gravity on your side. Being on your back is the worst position for you my Queen. So come on, let's get you on all fours. That will be the easiest and safest way to deliver your baby"

You smile remembering Astrids take charge attitude. She was always the kind to get straight to the point. All work and no play.

"And don't worry, it's only mildly humiliating as we all stare at your derrière" she says amused.

"What?... um... no. I really don't want you all staring at my rear while I push. Absolutely not"

"Come on darling let's get you up" Loki says, lifting you without warning. You protest just a little, but then realise there was no use in doing so. You move slowly and Loki offered you a grateful smile. Pleased you were not putting up a fight this time.

Suddenly the Jotun healers spoke up. "She cannot be moved. We deliver our children on our backs, this is how it's always been done, and the best way!" Dasani argued. Insisting you go back to laying down.

Loki interpreted for Astrid but Astrid quickly counteracted with an argument. And you watched as both healers fought their case, squabbling in disagreement with each other.

"She isn't Jotun King Loki. The women of Jotunheim are much larger, having wide hips. I'm familiar with smaller pelvises, and big headed babies! she will certainly need to position herself better. Please trust me" Astrid pleaded.

He looked at Astrid, and then back to the healers. Bouncing his eyes back and forth, too scared to make a decision.

"It's my body. My decision. I've decided I'm gracing you all with front row seats of my buttocks....Loki, if you don't mind, help me get on all fours"

Loki sighed in relief, happy you took charge of the decision making. He curtly updated Dasani and she and her healers stepped back. Allowing Astrid free reign.

"Lets open a window too. It's too stuffy in here. Her cheeks are flushed" Astrid orders.

"Please tell me you're referring to my facial cheeks and not my ass cheeks Astrid. I'm already mortified enough"

Astrid chuckled but kept her lips sealed. Teasing you at the worst possible time. You roll your eyes but then had a sudden urge to push, and a searing pain shot all around your lower body. You scream out a deafening wail, gripping the bed sheets taunt in your palms.

Loki looked down at you frantic as he rubbed your back, and Frigga held onto him, providing her son much needed support. But Kai and Thor backed themselves into the corner of the room, their faces horrified by the gruff sounds you made.

"She sounds like the very creatures we ran from in the perilous wood" Kai whispered to Thor discreetly. And Thor shuddered, remembering Nagini, and the nasty drawls who hunted him.

You look over and see them huddled together "just wait until you see the head emerge. Then you'll be truly horror struck" you laugh menacingly. And immediately they manoeuvred their bodies at a different angle, not wanting to be traumatised by the grisly sight of birth.

"Push again" Astrid yelled, under the watchful eye of Dasani. And instantly you did, releasing a loud wail each time you pushed.

You heard only Loki's soothing voice and your heavy pants each time your contraction passed. Rendering the room silent. But after the third push, the room quieted again, yet this time you heard the door creek open, and Skargg's face peer around the side of the door. He desperately tried to bare witness to the "miraculous heir" as he so often refers to him by.

Brena tried to shoo him back out, but your heart felt saddened seeing his pitiful eyes as he reluctantly closed the door. You quickly yell out before he shut it fully.

"Skargg!"

He dashed through the door so eager, it broke the hinges, causing the doors to become lopsided.

"Nice one you clumsy fool" Moder scoffed. But he ignored her and hastily answered your call.

"Yes my Queen" he smiled wide eyed, glowing with as much excitement as Loki.

"You may stay"

He released a long drawn out sigh and grinned with elation. Quickly darting around the room, anxiously trying to find the best possible spot to witness the royal birth.

Now the room was a tight squeeze but you simply had to pretend it was empty, that only you and Loki resided in the room. Otherwise you'd have a case of severe stage fright and may just decide to keep baby blue inside you for all eternity.

More time passed and the contractions got closer, and much more painful. But now the whole crowded room acted as your cheer squad, egging you on to push and strain. And because the bedroom doors were torn from their hinges, you noticed the many peering faces of bystanders all wanting to support you too. Guards, and maids. But towering above them all was Fenrir. Nervously peeking in.

Thor and Kai quickly left their secluded corner and darted over to you, taking Loki's place. Loki moved away, sensing the final push was imminent. He wanted to see his son come into the world, and refused to miss it.

Dasani quickly took over, making sure Astrid moved away from the dangers of bare Jotun bodies, and helped guide your babies head out.

"I can do it Dansani" Loki suddenly declared. Eagerly waiting for Dasani to move from his spot. She looked at him in surprise but moved aside, patiently giving him instructions on where to position his hands.

"Now push Kitten, and I will guide our son safely into our world" Loki said confidently.

You felt Loki's hands inside you steering your son through, and heard words of support and praise as you gave your final push, releasing a loud triumphant scream along with it.

A sudden euphoric relief flowed through your body feeling the heaviness and ache disappear. Your arms gave way, and you collapsed down onto your side, against the soft pillows that felt like fluffy clouds of heaven. Your heavy lids desperately called for sleep, but the sound of crying made you anxiously look up.

You began to sob immediately, seeing Loki cradling his newborn son in his arms. But to your surprise it wasn't your baby crying, but Loki. Weeping as he stared down at his small son, both their skins a matching shade of blue.

"Would you like to cut the cord King Loki"

He nodded, too emotional to speak. But promptly used his magic to slice through the cord, while still holding his baby securely against his chest.

You watched as a blubbering Skargg kneeled down on one knee, bowing his head to his King and to the new prince of Jotunheim.

"My servitude is forever yours little Prince. I promise to serve and protect you for as long as the gods keep air in my lungs"

Skargg's sudden announcement ignited a chain effect. Inducing every Jotun present, to instinctively kneel, and bow.

Loki smiled and clasped a hand on Skargg's shoulder, and he looked up. Staring in awe at Loki and the new bundle in his arms.

"He looks like you my King" Skargg replied.

Loki looked down at his content son, and observed his features. Stroking ever so gently, the tufts of black hair.

"No" he says softly, and pausing "he resembles everything that is worthy" Loki blinks through fresh tears, and slid his pinky finger within his sons tiny hand "I will cherish you my son. Forever, you will be mine"

"May I see our son my love" you murmur.

Loki smiled as he caught your eye and slowly sauntered towards you, allowing Kai and Thor time to move aside. You sat up against the array of pillows as Loki positioned himself next to you.

You gasp, feeling overwhelmed with happiness as you see your son for the first time. And Loki couldn't keep his eyes off you. Observing the look of besotted love on your face as he very gently placed him in your arms.

He wrapped his arm around your shoulders, leaning you comfortably against his chest, and both of you stared in awe at your little miracle. While the crowd continued to gaze in silence, baring witnessing to the beauty of the new royal family.

——————————

You hear indistinct murmuring which roused you from a deep, well needed sleep. You slowly flutter your tired lids and peek towards the cradle positioned on your side of the bed. But you panic, seeing it empty.

You sit up. About to yell out for Loki but your sharp hearing alerted you of more soft whispers. Your eyes trailed across the room, and peered into the dimly lit space. You smiled seeing Loki, rocking in a chair, highlighted only by the soft glow of the moon that peaked through the open curtains. He began humming a soft melody, the same one at your wedding, while cradling his son against his chest.

Your heart lifted, and you swooned. Never wanting to break your gaze from the view that graced your eyes. You purposely stayed silent, and unmoving. Allowing their bond to form without you interfering. Only when you saw the obvious signs that your son was hungry, did you slowly make your way towards them.

"He's hungry" you whisper, placing your hand on Loki's shoulder as you stood behind him. He turned his head slightly and looked up at you, and you saw his crimson eyes glassy from emotion.

"I love the feel of him on my bare skin. When we make contact, I feel not only him, but you too" Loki murmurs softly.

You lean down, and rest your chin in the crook of his neck and sigh in blissful contentment.

"That's because he is both of us my love. An equal mix of you and I" you reply.

"Except" Loki adds "he isn't riddled with flaws as I am. He is the divinity of pure innocence. And now I am burdened with another glorious purpose my queen..... to keep him safe. My entire world is in this small room and it scares me to death imagining my life without you both" he stutters back a sob. And you immediately place light pecks below his ear, soothing his mental woes.

"You won't ever lose us Loki. I promise you"

He turned his head and looked at you teary eyed. You passionately kissed him, forcing your tongue in his mouth as he still battled to stop weeping.

A gentle whimper broke your kiss and you looked down to see your son stirring awake. You both chuckled softly witnessing his mouth stretch wide, his yawn too adorable to comprehend.

"Come sweetheart. Our son requires sustenance. And I know first hand the delicious milk that awaits him. Lets not keep him waiting"

Loki takes your hand and guided you back to the bed, and after you get comfortable you outstretch your arms. He carefully hands you your son and instinctively you expose your breast, positioning your sons mouth against your nipple.

Loki watches in awe, as you expertly latch him on, and smiles hearing the soft sucking noises he makes as he drinks your milk. You look down and see his chubby blue cheeks become filled with milk, powerfully drinking you down. 

"Have you decided on a name darling?" Loki asks, tracing his fingertips over each of his sons little toes.

"I have not" you sigh exasperated "I think it's best you pick Loki. I liked all your suggestions"

"Are you sure sweetheart?"

"Mhm-hmm" you smile.

Loki grinned wide, excitement brewing inside him.

"Well, I did favour one over all others"

"And....I'm eagerly awaiting my love. What have you named our son?" you chirp, exhilarated.

He smiled at you, then hesitated his words, then smiled again and just blurted it out.

"William"

You looked at Loki full of emotion, accepting the beautiful name he chose. And as you stared down at your newborn son, now having a name, a tear rolled down your cheek.

"William" you whisper, softly stroking his dark wispy locks.

"It's perfect Loki. You chose well"

"Thank you sweetheart. I'm so happy you're truly accepting of the name. You see, whilst I love the name, I found the meaning fitting. The old gods believed the meaning of a name will become a trait should it be bestowed with a sincere and full heart"

"And what does the name mean?" you ask curiously.

"Well, he is my son, the most precious thing ever created by me. Thus, I bestow him with a name that will offer him protection, and grant him a strong mind, akin to an impenetrable fortress.....His name means strong minded and protection"

"I adore it Loki. I wholeheartedly wish that the meaning will become a part of him"

"Me too darling. Me too"

"Will Lokison" you beam, the name rolling off your tongue with ease. Loki's eyes widened, completely captivated at hearing you say it out loud. He knew then he made the right choice, as it sounded so right coming from your mouth.

——————————————

You hold in your desire to scream as you run down the long hall of the palace, your heart beating against your chest hard. You stop at a junction, spinning around on the spot, indecisive in which direction to go.

Turn left and it takes you to the library, and you know he'll defiantly find you there.

Turn right and it takes you towards the great hall, but the hall was too much of an empty space. Low on good spots to discreetly hide behind.

That meant your only option was straight ahead. You quickly dash forward, your feet dragging you towards the exit of the palace with precision.

You darted through the palace doors and immediately your face was hit with a bitter chill. You shivered almost instantly but carried on your sprint, running towards the small hedge maze.

You knew this was your best chance at winning hide and seek, as even Loki didn't know how to conquer the maze. Both of you were still too new to Jotunheim, not yet having a chance to memorise it.

You reach the maze just as Loki's loud voice bellowed out into the cold open air.

"I can smell you darling. I tracked the smell of William here, his scent is all over you"

You chuckled quietly, wondering what the scent actually smelled like. And as though he heard your thoughts from all away across the gardens, he answered you.

"He smells like honeyed milk.....of your sweet white goodness my Queen. So I know you're out there" he proclaims, walking slowly down the palace steps, his piercing gaze scanning all directions. "And I will catch you little mouse"

You peak from around the maze entrance, and see the wicked grin now spread across his face. You stare curiously at him, seeing his nostrils widen as he breathed in a large inhale. And as he released the deep breath from his mouth, his eyes narrowed in towards your exact location.

You gasp as both your eyes locked on one another. And immediately Loki smirked.

"There you are little mouse"

You squealed when he suddenly darted forward. You picked up your feet and ran into the complex labyrinth of twists and turns, your body and mind swamped with nervous excitement at being caught.

As you run aimlessly, taking a gamble on every turn. You hear the crunch of frozen leaves on the ground as Loki neared, and then his chilling taunts began, sending a shiver down your spine.

"Little mousssseee... you can't run from me"

You still your body, silently remaining rooted in place as you try to decipher how far away he was.

"You can't escape from me"

His enjoyment at hunting you was evident in his deep voice. And you knew he purposely tried to goad you in hopes it stimulated a reaction, giving away your position.

You breathed heavy, holding your hand over your mouth to masked your deep sharp breaths. You slowly back away into a narrow corner. Burying yourself against the stiff hedge, trying to be inconspicuous.

"You can't hide from me"

His voice trailed off, and now you heard only silence. The silence only heightening your anxiety. Now you had no clue where he was.

You anxiously bite down on your lower lip, remaining as still as a statue. But the sudden sound of a twig breaking just feet away, caused your blood pressure to spike, and your warm blood to run cold.

More anxious silence...

"I got you!!" Loki boomed, jumping out and grabbing you by the waist.

You screamed in fright. Releasing an ear splitting  yell so high pitched, it caused all the black birds to caw away from their tree top nests. But Loki chuckled loud, feeling exhilarated and triumphant at finding you.

You immersed yourself so completely in your cat and mouse game, that the playful antics seemed too real. You truly felt hunted. And now your heart struggled to stop pounding hard as you both laughed heartily, while grasping each others body.

"Could you really smell me Loki?" you chuckle curiously.

"Most definitely darling. You smell delicious. Our son is extremely lucky to feast on your milk everyday"

"Do I sense some jealousy my King?" you teased.

Loki's eyes changed. No longer innocent looking. He gripped your waist roughly and snapped you against his body. "Why should I feel jealous" he says, slowly moving aside the strap of your dress, exposing the top of your breast "you have more than enough to go around"

He boldly slid his hand under the material of your dress, cupping your bare breast. You breathe heavy as he fondles you, your eyes never breaking contact with his. His gentle touch soon become firmer as his arousal for you shot up, and now he kneaded your milk filled mounds deliberately harder to induce a leakage.

He growled low, suddenly ignited with an intense need when his palm became soaked with your milk. He removed his hand and stared at the dripping white essence, and before a single drop hit the floor he extended his tongue and lapped it up.

Observing him slurping against his palm, shot hot tingles down your lower region. Your mind becoming giddy with feral desire.

You gripped his leathers and tugged him forward, pressing a passionate kiss to his lips. And as your tongues battled, his hands tore at your dress. Ripping them into two pierces and discarding them on the floor.

You broke your kiss and gasped, looking down at your naked body. He smirked seeing your shocked expression.

"I liked that dress Loki" you glare.

He inhaled deeply before his face morphed into dark lust. "I'm the King. Continue your heated glare little mouse and I'll outlaw dresses. Forcing you to walk completely naked within the palace"

You narrowed your eyes but then slowly curve your lips up into a smile "Then I suppose my King doesn't have any qualms with other men observing the beauty that is my body?......Kai....Skargg.... Thor?"

A deep guttural growl rose up and resonated from his heaving chest at the mention of Thor, and you expected as much.

He darted forward and spun you around, ordering you to walk towards a stone wall. Once your nose almost touched the wall, you felt his already bare chest press up against your back, and his feet force your legs apart.

Your teeth chattered, feeling the cold more since the birth of William a week ago. But you instantly felt the familiar buzz of Loki's magic engulf you, sending heat throughout your entire body, and with a low voice he spoke into your ear.

"Are you warm now darling?"

"Yes" you pant.

"I know we have little time. But I was wondering, do you want me?"

"It's been a week of maddening celibacy Loki. I was hoping our game would end with a bang"

Loki chuckled amused and slowly reached around to part your folds. His fingers diving straight to your aroused clit. He peppered light wet kisses around the nape of your neck, as he circled with his finger tips. And you push out your ass, hoping to find a stiff cock ready and waiting.

You smiled when you felt it, his meaty rod eagerly waiting to penetrate you.

"Fuck me now Loki"

"But darling... you need to be warmed up first" he argued.

You quickly grabbed his hand and pushed it lower down your pussy, and immediately Loki cooed, feeling you dripping.

"I've been wet since the moment you hunted me down. You found your little mouse, now it's time to throughly fuck her"

Loki was so eager and excited having sorely missed the pleasures of your body. That he certainly wasn't going to protest. He'd give you whatever you want and if you want a quick fuck, then so be it.

He quickly positioned his hands on your hips as you leaned your forearms on the wall, bracing yourself. And with one hard thrust his cock entered you, inciting a loud groan to escape both your lips.

He whipped his hips upwards, pummelling hard against your ass and groaning loud simultaneously. Giving you the hard fast fuck you were so desperate for.

His fingertips made indents in your supple skin and his head rolled back. His mind now floating with euphoria at feeling your soft walls suck him in again.

Your legs began to tremble as you pant out of breath, and with care and compassion Loki wrapped his hands around you, holding your body up.

Your longed for release almost hit peak, and you knew a few more hard pounds will bring about the hot surge of pleasure you greatly missed.

Loki suddenly clenched his jaw together feeling his throbbing cock about to spill and with one more mighty thrust inside you, you both came. The loud noises of sexual satisfaction rolled out of you both, trailing and fading away until only the sounds of your heavy panting could be heard.

You continue to lean against the wall, as Loki leaned against you. Unmoving and listless you both stick sweatily together, but the explosion of much needed pleasure took a toll on each of you, as you both now longed for sleep.

Loki quickly plucked you from the wall and cradled you. Using his magic to dress you in a new dress before he left the maze.

"Do you think we'll ever get to conquer that maze" you ask.

"We'll certainly have fun trying Kitten"

You chuckled as he made his way up the palace steps, heading straight for your royal chambers.

You saw Skargg and Moder guarding the chamber doors. And immediately you questioned them.

"Has he woken?"

Moder laughed "I don't believe he slept my Queen. We've heard non stop chatter and nursery rhymes since the moment you left"

Loki chuckled "well it has been over a thousand years since my mother has been around a baby. She's looked forward to a grandchild for a long time"

You sighed and Loki stopped, hesitating to open the bedroom doors "what is it darling?"

"I'm sad Queen Frigga can't actually hold him. Or Thor, or Kai. And when Huggin comes back home he'll want to hold him too" you say lowly.

"He is merely a week old sweetheart. There is still a chance that he may change into midgardian form and have the ability to change identity as I can. Let's be patient"

You nod. You knew it was wrong to wish your son had another form. You accept him as he was meant to be.

"Besides. Nothing will stop my mother from showing affection. She will always find a way. I can almost guarantee it"

You smile at the thought, and Loki nodded, motioning for Skargg to open the doors. And as Skargg did so, Loki's immediate view was that of his mother, singing rhyming songs while hovering over the crib. You heard Will coo, captivated by her animated hands.

Loki placed your feet firmly on the ground but kept his hand nestled around your waist. And you curiously stared at an odd contraption laying on the chair next to the cot.

You walked over to it and picked it up, inspecting it closely.

"What's this Queen Frigga?"

She stopped her childlike dancing and straightened up "oh, that's my caressing hand. It's made of soft foam, and wrapped in the finest of furs. I use it to stroke my grandson. I know I can't physically do it, yet. So I invented this device in the mean time" she smiles warmly.

You chuckle in amazement, but suddenly feel hands snake around your waist.

"See, I told you so. She always finds a way" Loki whispered in your ear.

You lean back against him and smile.

"Did you enjoy your time together?...I ask because I heard screaming coming from the gardens. I grew concerned, but Skargg assured me it was sounds he was well familiar with and to not worry. I assume it's a Jotun thing?"

Your cold face suddenly flushed with an intense burn. You broke from Loki and walked towards the cot, intentionally avoiding her remark and her gaze. You left Loki to explain away this one while you gently picked up Will.

"Skargg's right mother. Its quite normal around here to here random wails, especially when William is asleep" he smirks. And instantly Frigga knew what he was talking about.

"Oh!.....well. You did indeed enjoy yourself then" she chuckled, and you almost died on the spot from embarrassment, but Loki felt no ounce of shame. "I agree, alone time after a baby is very important. Your father and I were quite rampant after Thor... and after Loki graced our lives, it was taken up a notch. Every bit of free time was spent in the royal chambers" Frigga smirked.

And now it was Loki who looked embarrassed, yet his expression had a bit of disgust thrown in the mix too.

"Far too much information mother" Loki asserts. But she laughed, enjoying making him squirm.

Frigga watched you dewy eyed and full of emotion as you held her grandson while slowly walking back and forth. You hummed your favourite nursery rhyme and gently rubbed circles on his back.

"You're my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are gray-"

"She's a wonderful mother" Queen Frigga whispered to Loki. Keeping her voice low so not to disturb your soft singing.

Loki embraced his mother and held her "she told me she strives to be like you. A great mother"

Loki heard Frigga sniffle back a sob against his chest and automatically he pulled her in closer.

But as you pace and relax in the company of your son, a sudden ringing built up in your ear, low at first which confused you. But then it faded in, becoming louder and louder, now instilling fear into you.

"FlOWER!"

You suddenly dart around, your eyes wide and glassy having heard Huggins voice boom so loud it rattled your ear drum.

Loki immediately rushed to your side and felt you shaking.

"Loki take William, I'm feeling suddenly weak"

Loki quickly took his son and as soon as he did, your knees gave way, crashing you hard against the floor.

As your mind blackened, you heard muffled sounds. But they were not the sounds of your surroundings. Or of Loki yelling for help, or Skargg picking you up. No. They were the clear ramblings of Huggin.

"We need you Flower. Only you can help us"

As you listen to his voice while in a state of unconsciousness, your actual body was checked and worked on by healers as Loki frantically stood by.

But in the chaos of it all Loki heard you speak. Talking aloud as you remained unconscious.

"Huggin...where are you? Tell me!"

"Help us please. Not.... much.... time..."

"Where are you?!?" you scream, feeling the connection slowly start to disperse. And then you hear another voice collide over Huggins.

"PEACHES!"

You dashed upwards, breathing heavy and covered in sweat. You look around and see the many faces of healers stare back at you in shock.

"It happened again didn't it?" you said to the crowd.

Loki quickly went to your side "yes darling it did. They're getting more frequent. Your sudden blackouts, your daymares, your nightmares. But sweetheart, something new has occurred"

You look at his serious expression "what? what is it?"

"I heard you speaking. You were having a conversation with Huggin. Do you remember what he said?"

"I-I can't remember... I'm trying, but as soon as I wake my mind feels lost, confused. I believe I'm feeling exactly how he felt before he went missing" you stared at Loki worried. Tears forming "am I losing my mind Loki?"

Loki brought you into his chest and held the back of your head. Stroking your hair.

"No darling. You're just under a lot of stress, and the birth has only heightened your torment. I know you blame yourself for not stopping Huggin from leaving that day. You've placed a heavy burden on your shoulders, an unbearable weight that is now plaguing your mind while awake and asleep. You need to stop feeling guilt, as your episodes are only getting worse"

You sob into his chest, still beating yourself up for allowing Huggin to leave. "Please Loki. Please find him"

"We are searching everywhere. But everywhere is a vast amount. It takes time sweetheart"

You sniffle, feeling emotional. You knew your body was still battling to resume its normal self after the birth. Your hormones were all over the place. But now your mind was also weakening, and for the first time in a long while you felt yourself almost mortal.

A weak mere mortal succumbing to your emotions. No longer feeling powerful.

Your whole body and mind screamed for comfort, for peace. But you had no clue how to give it to yourself.

You suddenly heard a distant bell ring in the background. You pull back and look at Loki curiously "what's that sound?"

Loki listened intently, worried you were hearing more ghostly calls.

"I hear only bells darling"

"Yes, what are they?"

Loki sighed in relief, then smiled "Oh, they chime for William. It is exactly one week since his birth. They will continue ringing the bells, marking the celebration until he has reached three months old"

You smile curiously "why three months"

"After three months the risk of mortality is low. The bells chime alerting the people that their heir is still alive"

You stared at Loki speechless and slightly unnerved.

"Well that is not morbid at all!" you exclaim and Loki chucked. "It's just another tradition darling. But I have to admit. I love hearing them. As it's a reminder that all is well. That my entire world is safe"

Loki pulled you back into his hug as you both listened to the bells chime again, and immediately your mind flashed with old memories.

Of a church, of your bookstore, of Agnes.

It soothed you. And you smiled full of hope. For at that moment, you knew exactly what you needed.

Home.