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kagrenacs · 2 years

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The Exogenesis of Merida and the creation of Mehrunes Dagon

Originally this was a theory I proposed in 2017 or so, and continually kept tabs on over the years as new content dropped. I thought it deserved an update to be kept in one location opposed to several different posts, and to add new information.

Origins

Mehrunes Dagon is described to have been created by the Magne-Ge in the bowels of Lyg, (1,2) a parallel version of Tamriel, possibly in a previous kalpa. (3, 4) He is said to have been intended to be created as a Daedric Prince of good-intent, imbued with Oblivion’s scarce asset of hope by Mankar Cameron. Contrasting the very destructive, often seen as a force of evil, Mehrunes Dagon that we currently see.

The Magne-Ge are spirits that fled creation with Magnus, creating the stars in the sky. Lyranth views them disfavorably, stating: [ We will never know what might have been achieved had Magnus and his legions remained to finish their work. If they did have some hand in Dagon's emergence, is it any wonder that he embodies destruction?] Of these spirits, a handful are named, including Merid-Nunda, favoured daughter of Magnus and the precursor to Meridia before she was cast down from Aetherius for “consorting with the Daedra”, and Xero-Lyg, who bares the name of Tamriel’s parallel plane.

Grief

In an IRC Q&A session with Michael Kirkbride, he mentions a connection between Kyne and Meridia, viewed through the connection of Knights of the Nine and Pelinal as a Shezzarine. Kyne, who “rained forever because he was gone” made the Knight, either through her relics or Morihaus, her son, mentoring Pelinal. Meridia who said “No, I will wait until he comes back.” who is “The colour of his return when curated by rain.” and opposed the Knight through Umaril, her champion. Their subordinates actions towards Pelinal I don’t believe matter much here, we’re looking at the deities. ( @peribeth raised a super good point about them being both associated with life and light, which I’ll come back to later) I believe this is intended to be viewed through the lens of an Enantiomorph, there is some essential thread here connecting the two, enough to make them the same if you look at it the right way. Whether they oppose or support the knight doesn’t matter.

He describes Meridia’s character through metaphors of unrequited love, or loving someone who isn’t going to come back. Quoted:

Otherwise, why would you wait? Hope has a color and a sound and a taste and a touch and 11 more sense[s] you don't know you have yet. And this is why you worship them. The gods and demons beyond your control. They went through it before you.

What ties Meridia and Kyne together, is their grief for Lorkhan. The language here jumped out to me, as opposed to Kyne, Meridia is phrased as remaining hopeful he can return. Oblivion’s scarcest asset.

I believe there to be a common misconception that the Magne-Ge = Star Orphans, but the singular text we have referencing the latter term is the Exegesis of Merid-Nunda (this title isn’t a typo by the way). Which seems to disassociate the Star-Orphans from Magnus, which the term Magne-Ge never seems to have done. It names three spirits as Star-Orphans, Mnemo-li, Xero-Lyg and Merid-Nunda. There is no connection to be made with Xero-Lyg beyond namesake, but I don’t think it’s a stretch. I can’t say why Meridia decided not to align with Magnus anymore. Amun-Dro, Khajiit Silent Priest, calls him cold, someone who loved nobody but himself and his own creations. Perhaps she felt guilt at her decision to flee, but because you can’t change the past, all she could do was protect what Lorkhan loved, even if Magnus didn’t.

Rebirth

Mehrunes Dagon is the prince of Destruction, but like a brush-fire cuts away old growth, this can also mean renewal and hope. Lorkhan, as the trickster and creator god and orchestrator of Nirn’s birth, could have been considered Mundus’ Prince, including all previous iterations such as Lyg. Therefor, Mehrunes, born in Lyg, considers himself the rightful heir to Nirn- or at least that’s what the Mythic Dawn believes. Lyranth poses a more abstract picture, he is simply the face mortals put to the terrifying forces of destruction and revolution, so they have something to fear. Dagon doesn’t believe Nirn belongs to him, the people of Nirn think he belongs to them. A third party, (5) believes him to be a tool created by the Magne-Ge to rectify the mistakes of Nirn and align it with the plans set out by Magnus.

Regardless of what is the truth, if there is a singular truth, he was born with a purpose. Meridia considers herself a protector of the infinite energies, and staunchly opposes Molag Bal who stagnates life energies. (Remember her connection to Kyne through life and light?) Through some vague references, we hear a bit about Lyg as it may have been- or mostly that it was destroyed, either by Mehrunes Dagon and his red legions (6, 7,) or by the princes as a whole according to PGE 2 (PGE is dubious even as a deeplore text published in 2008 ish, I’m just demonstrating there’s a trail to be followed here). We also know that Molag Bal is associated with Lyg, also through PGE 2 and the sermons of Vivec. In the Adversarial Spirits, it says Merid-Nunda attacked the lattice, and possibly orchestrated the death of Lorkhaj. Take these two things together, and you could interpret Merid attacking Mundus, the remnants of Lorkhaj. Now consider the fact that Mehrunes aided in the destruction of Lyg, associated with Molag Bal, Prince of Domination and undeath, and a picture of a stagnating world begins to come into focus. Meridia loved Lorkhan and his idea, even if she couldn’t commit to it permanently and she couldn’t see it become something unchanging and stale, because that’s not what he would have wanted. So she, along with the Star-Orphans, created Mehrunes Dagon.

Lyranth has an interesting take on the Magne-Ge, she believes Dagon is destructive because of his Magna-Ge creators, perhaps being born out of the spaces their deaths should have solidified. Or that perhaps something went wrong during his creation. The Adversarial Spirits claim that Molag Bal felled Dagon and tortured him until creation. The Aldudagga (YES, i’m referencing that.), supports this second claim somewhat, stating that the Leaper Demon King and the Greedy Man (Lorkhan) had devised a plan to keep Mundus the way it was so Alduin wouldn’t start the next kalpa. Alduin catches them, the Greedy Man noclipping beneath Red Mountain and getting stuck there, so he curses LDK to become Mehrunes Dagon, banishing him to the void, revoking his power to jump between Kalpas, and cursing him to destroy everything he preserved and loved. Whatever Dagon’s original purpose and personality may have been, seems to have been lost.

Summary

Merid-Nunda, favoured daughter of Magnus the Architect, loved Lorkhan’s creation. During the breaking of spirits, she blindly fled with her father because that’s all she knew to do. But looking upon the chaotic mess of creation a second time, she felt regret. So with her siblings, she orphaned herself and to combat the stagnation of time and energies, she created a spirit of rebirth- later whom would be corrupted from his original purpose. Magnus and his kin did not look upon this favourably, and so he cast his daughter from aetherius for consorting with illicit spectra, where she became Meridia, guardian of infinite energies.

#Kagrenac’s journal #meridia #Mehrunes Dagon

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alatismeni-theitsa · 3 years

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Madeline Miller has every right to write books like "Circe" and draw inspiration from Greek mythology but sometimes I want what she smokes... Like, I can't believe that with her studies and experience she looked at one of the most beloved heroes of the Greeks for millennia and she went "the gods are 'sociopathic narcissists' in our modern standards, Odysseus is full of himself and probably shittier than he presents himself to be because patriarchy".

I am mostly paraphrasing, and the quotes are below. Yes, Greek societies have been patriarchal for a long time, yes Odysseus is the main narrator so of course, we see the story from his point of view, yes he is a trickster character and not perfect, no that doesn't automatically make him a bad person who overshadows other characters so he can elevate himself. If he had lied or hid something when he narrated his story, it would be there in the text, as in every other occasion Odysseus tricked someone.

I find it very hard to accept that with her Classics background she characterized the Greek gods in such a simple way, letting out all their magnificence, generosity, and kindness.

I understand what she wants to say here but the phrasing is weird. What do you mean by "push back" against the mythology? This makes it seem like her works are equal to the mythology texts and she is able to "push back". (She says in the article that her works are not equal to the Homeric pieces, but phrases like this makes it seem so)

These statements of the interviewer don't help much either... In a formal article, please don't characterize gods of other cultures and religions as "stupid" and similar things. You wouldn't call a person that in such a context, and you call the Greek gods stupid? Also... we are so sorry for our hero who tells his own story, I guess?? And sorry that our important ancient texts made you sad as a kid???

This statement alone might not seem like much but in the general spirit of the article, it adds up to the notion of Odysseus isn't that deserving after all and we should stop giving him that much attention in the name of social justice. For example, later in the article, we meet this statement from Miller. (I understand she doesn't outright call Odysseus a narcissist and what she says is that there is some material on the text she can use to play with this theme.)

The whole piece might leave the impression to a portion of readers that Odysseus wasn't actually that great and was praised in the context of a patriarchal society because he was a male hero. I can't help but feel this removes some agency from the Greek people who have kept Odysseus in their hearts and tradition for thousands of years, up to this day.

I analyze her and the writers of multiple articles stance exactly as deep and with the same stretches as the article writers praise Miller's work. She made the powerful witch Circe a rape victim and Odysseus a liar from a few hints (not even) in the original text. And I cannot meta-analyze her work from a cultural, intersectional scope? Yes, "it's not that deep" but since the articles are making a fuss out of a singular recent book and analyze it to death, I believe I am allowed to go a bit deeper in my commentary.

So, their stances remind me of the old theme of the "enlightened, educated foreigner" who "knows better" the native heroes than the natives of a land and sees how "problematic" the culture and the heroes themselves are, and the culture wasn't "feminist enough" to give the female heroes voices.

It all ties to the sense of ownership the West has with the Greek myths and characters. This is a formal interview/article and yet they talk about the heroes like they are their cousins or like they discuss in a bar about heroes of their own culture. One says that the Greek gods are essentially pricks and the other moans because we mostly follow Odysseus in... "Odyssey", as if the text came out yesterday in their local newspaper.

Like, I thought we would get a respectful and serious approach from people who know what they are talking about, but apparently, I was too optimistic.

The funny thing is, while misogyny was/is a thing, it's not because of the lack of feminism that Circe wasn't so important. She was merely the "bad witch" of the story. As it often happens in folk adventure stories, side characters - bad witches included - don't have a deep background story. To claim that the misogyny of Greeks was the reason Circe didn't get much "screentime" in another hero's story (!!!) is a stretch. There are multiple male characters in Odyssey who don't get that much time because they are side characters.

I can't believe I am saying this but... Miller and the writers of the articles give me so many "white feminism" vibes. Greece societies had/has issues with women's representation and yet they chose one side female character who matters as much as the male side characters in the text and go "now THIS is a problem we need to talk about for the next five years! We will do the subversion of the century and we will open people's eyes to neglected women by making a beloved hero a prick!! Oh, also Circe is now a rape victim to show how cruel the men were back then!"

Here is the full article. Most of it is pleasant and insightful and then there are... these statements that made red flags arise in my mind. I am not saying that Madeline Miller is trash, or that she doesn't know anything, or that she deserves any type of harassment. I just think some commentary is needed when such proclamations of hers are published and end up adopted by many who don't have the time to cross-reference.

#Madeline Miller #circe #writing #interview #mm interview #article

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sserpente · 3 years

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A/N: So this is a much requested Part II of this Christmas Imagine which I suppose you can also read on its own. Also has requests from @keepcalmandtravelonkate and @fandom-rpblog as well as the exclusive Zoom meeting idea. Haha, enjoy everyone! ♥

Words: 1822 Warnings: fluff

Christmas Eve came sooner than you had thought and it was about as cheerful as you had imagined it. Thor greeted you with mug of steaming hot chocolate first thing in the morning, wearing the ugly Christmas sweater you had bought him last year and Tony was already in the spacious living room with Pepper to finish up the preparations for his annual Christmas party.

You spent the entire day baking biscuits and didn’t see Loki all day but for some peculiar reason you hoped that he too would attend the biggest Christmas party in New York City. Tony had invited everyone—no, that was not entirely true, the party was, in fact, for everyone—especially those who had no one else to spend Christmas Eve with or wanted to do so with none other than the famous Avengers.

With a sigh, you finished applying your red lipstick and admired yourself in the mirror. The green dress shimmering like a thousand tiny crystals had cost you way more than what you would normally spend on clothes but the occasion was worth it. You had only realised after that green was Loki’s colour too. Another sigh escaped your lips.

The God of Mischief and you had not really spoken since the roof-incident. Part of you wondered whether he was about as confused as you about what had happened between you, especially after Thor had interpreted your entanglement in a romantic manner, the other insisted you didn’t think too much of it. Loki was just… Loki. Mysterious, mischievous and handsome. Wait… handsome?

By the time you arrived at the party, more than two dozen guests had already arrived. Dressed in Christmas pullovers, suits or festive dresses much like you, they held small glasses full of mulled wine, eggnog or champagne, munching on biscuits and other Christmas treats and chatting with each other and the superheroes who had already joined the party guests, impressing them with their stories and their skills.

Your heart skipped a beat when you spotted Loki standing only a few feet away from you. Heavens, he should not be allowed to wear suits. Instead of the light version of his Asgardian signature outfit you usually saw him in, the God of Mischief was dressed in an all-black suit complimenting his raven hair and tall figure. It was perfect to blend in and not attract too much attention, for many citizens still avoided him like the plague after everything that had happened only a few years back. Your eyes met, sending waves of electricity though you, and he nodded.

You furrowed your brows when somebody spoke your name. “Is that you?” Much to your dismay, you recognised the voice immediately. It belonged to Derek, your ex-boyfriend. Derek who collected action figures of the Avengers and who owned a Captain America costume worth five-hundred dollars. Derek, who had cheated on you with other women and, upon your break-up, had blamed you for the sexual imbalance in your relationship. Needless to say, you had not exactly ended it on good terms. The last thing you wanted to do was chat to him of all people on Christmas Eve. Much rather, you’d finally spend some time with Loki again. He was fun to be around once he had warmed up to someone…

“I tried to text you like… a hundred times.”

“I saw. I blocked your number after fifty.” You retorted.

“Don’t be like that. I was going to make up, you know.”

“You literally told me it’s my fault that you went ahead and fucked other women behind my back, Derek!”

“Because you didn’t give me what I need in the bedroom, baby. We should have talked about that more. It wouldn’t happen again. Let’s talk about this. Can I get you a drink?”

“No, thank you.”

“Okay… Care to dance with me then?”

“Absolutely not.” You hissed.

“Come on. You are not here with someone, are you?”

You blinked. Fuck. Think, think, think. “Yes, actually.” You lied quickly. Your eyes fell on Loki who met your gaze again in a strange and almost affectionate way—something had definitely changed between you since he had helped you decorate the Avengers facility and you remembered, with butterflies in your belly, how he had caught you in his arms when you had fallen off the roof like a bird with broken wings. The idea came to you before you could properly think it through. Derek would never dare to defy someone like Loki. He was your perfect alibi to get rid of him.

“I’m here with my boyfriend. You probably know Loki?” Before you could change your mind, you stepped forward, closed the remaining distance between you and put your arm under Loki’s. He did not fail to react. Turning away from Thor, he frowned and stared at your linked arms, then opened his mouth to question you. Much to your relief, however, the gesture did not seem to anger him.

You shot him a pleading glance. Play along, you thought. Please, take the hint.

“Are you serious right now?” Derek spat, a both disgusted and shocked expression on his face.

Much to your surprise—or maybe not—Loki wrapped his arms around your middle then, pressing you against his strong body. Your heart skipped a beat. This felt like him cradling you in his arms like a bride, only more… intense, for this time—this time, it was actually intentional.

Loki gave Derek a glare, his lips ghosting over your forehead. “Are you alright, my sweet mortal?” My sweet mortal? “I believe you have promised me a dance.”

Derek swallowed, blinking at you a few times—and then, without a word, he shook his head and disappeared in the burbling and dancing crowd. You let out a breath you didn’t realise you were holding. Good thing for you he’d always been a coward.

But while relief was flooding your veins, at the very same time, adrenaline set every single cell of your body on fire. Loki was still holding you. His lips against your skin had felt like the gentle kiss of a butterfly… You looked up, if anything not to make the situation even more awkward than it already was, given that by now, both Thor and Natasha had become rather taken aback witnesses as well.

“Thank you. I really owe you.” You muttered.

“I take it this was a former suitor of yours?”

You gave him a weak smile. “That’s a very elegant way to put it but yes, he is my ex-boyfriend. I left him when I found out he cheated on me—repeatedly. I panicked when he approached me and I knew he’d be scared of you.”

“Why thank you.” Loki replied with dismay before, much to your surprise, a smirk grew on his lips.

“No! I just meant…”

“I know what you meant. So?”

“S-so what?”

“He is still watching you. You would do well to keep up the act.” Loki said, keeping you from spinning around to check. But he was probably right either way. You had just announced in front of a bunch of strangers as well as your ex-boyfriend and two Avengers that Loki and you were dating. You were honestly surprised the Trickster did not at all seem too bothered by this very circumstance, not to mention what it meant for you. Ever since the roof-incident, you certainly didn’t mind clinging onto him like that.

“Dance with me.” He commanded softly, one of his large hands coming to rest on your waist while the other interlinked with yours. “He will lose interest if you feign easiness.”

You nodded quickly, leaning into him to not raise any suspicion and taking a deep breath when the side of your face connected with his chest. Loki rested his chin on the top of your head, weighing you gently from side to side as if the music was made of waves carrying you over an ocean. It was a classic playing right now—What are you doing New Year’s Eve by Ella Fitzgerald—sweet, calm… romantic. This evening was going in a very dangerous direction now but you couldn’t help but feel safe and protected in the God of Mischief’s arms. Who would have thought that putting up Christmas decoration together would create such a strong bond between two people… a mortal and a god on top of that?

“I got you a Christmas present, you know.” You murmured after a while.

His voice vibrated in his chest, you could feel it against your cheek. “Did you now?”

“Hmm…” He stole away your ability to speak. That was so unfair! “I was going to give it to you tomorrow morning but… would you like me to give it to you now, in private?” It would be the perfect excuse to get away from here for a bit too, even if, in better lighting, Loki would probably notice your blushed cheeks.

“Lead the way, my sweet mortal.” There it was again. Smiling up at him sheepishly, you moved a step back and took his hand, practically fleeing from the scene.

Loki remained in the doorway when you reached your room. Whether it was out of decency or respect, you couldn’t quite tell. You crossed your room with quick steps, reaching for Loki’s gift under your bed. You had wrapped it in green paper and decorated it with a golden bow. A bit of a cliché perhaps but it looked just perfect.

“Merry Christmas, Loki.” You said when you returned to him and handed it to him. He only took it hesitatingly.

“Why did you get me a gift?”

You shrugged. “I just wanted to be nice. I doubt the others will have gotten you something so I thought… just so you can unwrap something too?” You almost choked on your nervous laughter. “You know I almost decided not to give it to you after all after you almost drove me mad when I was hanging up the Christmas lights.”

Loki chuckled. “I suppose you made that consideration before I saved your life.”

“More or less...” You replied, winking at him. Hey… this isn’t so hard after all!

Your heart was pounding in your chest by the time he unwrapped it, revealing the notebook and the green and gold fountain pen you had gotten him. It even came with green ink.

“It’s not much, really, just…” You said quickly. “I keep seeing you scribbling and reading a lot and I thought…”

“Thank you.” He interrupted. Honesty swung in his smooth voice, making your heart beat faster in an instant. At this speed, you were going to need an ambulance soon.

You smiled. “I ought to thank you. Derek is a dick. You saved me twice now, I’m in your debt.”

Loki chuckled once more, looking you deeply in the eye. “Yes. I believe you are.” It was, without a doubt, a promise.

A/N: If you enjoyed this story, I would appreciate it so much if you considered supporting me on Kofi! It’s either for caffeine or red wine, I’ll take both. ko-fi.com/sserpente

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starshipsofstarlord · 3 years

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All This Hassle, and What For?

Pairing | Loki Laufeyson x reader

Summary | getting taken hostage, along with Loki, is far more amusing than ever intended to be, despite it leaving your captors anything but impressed.

Warnings | kidnapping, mentions of depression, swearing, implied smut, innuendos

Based off this tiktok. All original rights to the plot go back to the creator.

Quick link to my masterlist, if you’re interested in reading more of my crap 😬

Opening your aching eyes, you found yourself to be in a large room, there were plenty of feet stood at your eye level, and such a sight made you frown. You certainly didn’t remember being knocked out, but who would, the exposure to unconsciousness was most likely sudden.

But nevertheless, you raised your head, glaring up at those whom had captured you. As your eyes scoured the room, your eyes landed promptly on the god of mischief, who had his hands bound and shackled in chains, and by Odin, did he look good.

However, your attraction the man who once reigned terror down upon New York wasn’t the focus now, and so you licked your lips, and kicked the nearest guard in the leg. He stumbled, the noise loud enough to draw the attention of all others, and you were pleased to stifle a laugh. Loki frowned at your behaviour, knowing that this was not the way that you were trained to be an avenger, but it was clear that you were no longer on earth, so human pleasantries did not apply here.

“And by the gods, who in the galactic council’s name do you think you are?” The closest asked, wrapping his large hand through your hair, and tugging your face up to stare up at him, wanting you to be treated as the lesser being he thought you as.

“Actually, he’s the god.” Tilting your head, you diverted it towards Loki, who squinted feebly at your answer. “But I think you already knew that, since you have him rattled in metal. Just a word of advice, rumour has it that he likes to be restrained in such ways; really, you’re doing him a favour, and you may just earn yourself a big tip.”

You sent a wink up at the commander, watching with inward joy as he grimaced at your development within your speech. “Quite a nice sight, to see him so vulnerable and at someone’s mercy, so thank you general.”

Sending him a smile, he huffed, whilst Loki tried his darnedest to contain an amused grin. It wouldn’t be the first occasion that you had made suggestions regarding the new troop of the avengers; even when he was around causing mischief, (which he still tended to do), there were always words said that gained the god’s intrigue.

Tony at the time, and to this day, despite him being a part of the heroic team, which Thor was ‘inclined’ to drag him into, thought nothing more than disgust at your meaningful jokes. In his words, ‘you two may as well screw so we don’t have to listen to anymore of this dirty banter, you in regards to reindeer games’.

How you wished right now, preached silently even, that Tony could bare to listen again, so that he could send in the team whom could deal with these aliens that were keeping your imprisoned. But all communications were cut, and that just left you and Loki.

By no means did you doubt if Loki got the chance to escape, he would leave you. It was in his nature to do so, but if you could pose a lack of threat, they may loosen up on their efficiency in guarding you. After all, Loki was the one they wanted, not you. And then, both of you could get away from this galactic nonsense.

“Humans.” The general huffed, causing you to grimace as the stench of his breath wafted through the air, and hit your nose. “You all think that you are so special, but when it comes down to it, those who are not from your planet do not care. Loki here, this god, does not care about you little one. And he never will.”

“That’s okay with me, because I don’t care about him either. It’d called self preservation.” You informed your captor, noticing Loki staring across at you with an icy gaze. Who were you kidding? Of course you cared about the god, but right now, you would do anything to get out of this predicament.

“Aw would you look at that.” The feet moved back towards the main reward of their capture, staring down at the green eyed trickster with mocking eyes. “This woman has attitude just like yours, if either of you cared, I’d call it a match made in Asgard.” A laugh bellowed from the wide chest of the being, finding his own comedy quite humorous.

“Excuse me, I’m way out of his league!” You pretended to be offended, bringing your hands that were free of restraint to your chest. They thought not to tie you down as they did to him, after all, you were nothing but a midguardian. That was their mistake. “What’d you want with old horse shagger over there anyways? Don’t be alarmed, but he actually does some kind of good now, even if it be out of his own self interest.”

A heavy sigh fell on deaf ears, as the protector of space glanced unsurely between the pair of you. “He has the tesseract, and I wish to take it from his slippery hands, he cannot be trusted with such a powerful source of energy.” His words bellowed a laugh of absolute surprise from your mouth, earning a frown from those keeping you hear, and a cock of the head from the god of mischief.

It was clear that not only was he confused by your supple, yet somewhat pleasant burst of amusement, but he was also in the dark about what in the Hela this predominant being was speaking of. Yes, he had had the tesseract at one point , however, no longer was it in his untrustworthy grasp.

Thanos had taken ownership over it, after killing many of the people that he had saved from the events of Ragnarok. It was not just some energy source, it had been an infinity stone all along, tricking the eyes of elders and the young to believe that it was nothing more than a harbouring of power. But it had indeed been the space stone, and it was taken from him, in exchange for saving Thor’s life.

The Guardians of the Galaxy had found the pair of them upon the aftermath of the wreckage, taking them in, amongst plans of taking Thanos down. It had been a failure, up until the avengers went back in time, going to their past that would not affect their future, so that they could reverse the affects the Titan had brought upon earth and everywhere else.

During that time, Loki had nurtured his brother, watching as he fell apart with the responsibility of their people, and collapsed into a spiral of depression. You had also been there for Thor, doing your best to take the drink away from the bulky god, but to no avail did you manage to succeed. And so, during those tormenting five years, you and Loki would sit side by side, both basking silently in your failures.

“I thought you guys’d know everything, but I guess that you and your highness are stuck in one time line; all of them. But for us humans and every lesser being, there are multiple, and that Loki that stole the tesseract, yet I say again, is one much different. And we are on the search for him, to stop his disruption and crossing over of the times!” An exonerated, and audible exhale of air left you after your little speech.

Loki smirked, at the premise of you protecting him with the admission of the truth. But he couldn’t help but feel a feeling of warmth flutter within his immortal insides, it was rather a nice feeling he realised. “He is quite difficult to catch, we have been tracking him since the time heist went sideways.”

“That’s because he’s you!” You pointedly exclaimed, unable to pin some of the blame upon the god himself. Sure, in recent times he had changed, and was much different from back when he wanted all mortals to kneel before him (which you’d willingly do if it ever came to that, though you’d never tell him under which circumstances that would be), but at the end of the day, that had been him once!

The tricks and the lies still remained, but he had found a reason to thrive, and a long and enduring career that he was well at tackling. Often, he made out being an avenger, despite the government’s rouse of concern, to be a bore, and that he had far better things to do. But he stayed, with a light in his eyes, and continued following along with the heroic traditions, breaking a few rules here and there.

“Dear, why do you always have to put the blame upon me? I was not the one who decided to put that green dye within your shampoo, but I’ll have to admit, did you look so enrapturing.” He was running a ploy, dragging out the time that you spent bantering in hopes of something happening.

Unlike Heimdall, he did not have foresight, but it was a requirement whilst the pair of you were on your expediting mission, that you check in with the base, via the comms that had cracked under brutal feet. And so, he spoke, with the promise that you’d return the conversation and leave all others in the room confused with your meaningless discussion.

“I did, didn’t I?” You asked, to which he hummed in reply, lightly nodding his head, as his feline eyes ran up your body, paying ample attention to how your limbs were free, unlike his own. “But I’d say fine sir, that the blame is down to Clint, and if I’m correct, may we kick his ass as soon as we get back home?”

“Of course we can my beloved-“ you froze at his choice of words, and it appears that he did too, suddenly realising his mistake. Gulping for a second he went to speak again, but the commander felt much inclined to but in, and stop the headache that was bubbling in his large head.

“Shut up; the pair of you!” His scolding made you feel as though you were in school over again, it was impossible not to drop your head down and try to contain your laughter. Loki too found such enjoyment in this predicament, sporting a cheshire grin to emit his emotions.

“I’m sorry, can you say that again? Maybe a just a tad louder?” You pinched your thumb and forefinger together to show how much, and it was clear that you were pissing this primal being off. He began towards you, and you were prepared to fight him, you were never one to back down, which was one feature upon the various reasons that Fury had initially recruited you.

Awaiting the first strike, you stood despite the others around you, your eyes wide open as you bravely stared up at your opponent. But before the fight could begin, a distant crash assumed preference in your ears, causing you to turn your head in the direction it had came from. And then, all of a sudden, a ship crashed through the dock, guns blazing from its side.

“What are you waiting for?” The distinct voice of Rocket asked, and obediently you ran through the terror, finding Loki already upon the ship, but then, he appeared behind you also. “Quill, get ready to go!”

Taking glances, you stared between the two practically identical copies, a light frown on your face. Both were restrained, yet the one that was seated beside Groot, whom was playing a game on some nineties device, was glaring up at the pair of you.

“An avenger, really?” The seated one laughed, mocking his once future self, as you felt the ship steer clear away from the scene. Your Loki quirked his brow, smirking at his self that had avoided the wars that he had chosen to fight upon earth.

“Yes, an avenger.” He responded, causing his other to languidly scoff. An ‘I am groot’ came from the tree, and it was uncertain in your spoken languages of what he had said, but either way, you were more intrigued by the conversation that was happening between the Loki’s. “And I’ll have you know, that she is infinitely more brave than you, you cower-some fool.”

“Oh, so we’re going there?” You asked, causing the pair to snap out of their mutual rivalry, and stare haphazardly at you. “No, don’t mind me, feel free to continue.”

“We’re not going to be unable to unbind your until we reach earth.” Gamora cut in, speaking to the Loki that you knew to be the original.

“That’s fine.” He nodded humbly, before casting his attention back at his alternate reflection. “And this woman, is not only an avenger. She was there for your brother when you were not.”

“Aw.” The other Loki smirked, almost cruelly. “So she’s your beloved?” He remarked rudely, and it seemed to break something within Loki, him wishing not to listen to the other version of himself. He decided he did not like him, and understand how you must have felt upon your initial meeting.

“Yes.” You went to speak, but instead, Loki stood before you, powerlessly pulling your face to his own, and colliding his lips upon yours. On impulse, you ravenously replied with much affection, clasping his jaw and allowing him entrance into your mouth. It earned a disgusted groan out of the Loki that had caused all this hassle.

“I hate to interrupt...” Rocket returned, after putting his gun down and having gone to the front of the ship with Quill, so that he could contact Stark. “But these may get those off.” He held a pair of golden pliers, that were far larger than his body. At the sight , you pulled away from Loki’s face for a moment, raising a brow.

“It’s fine, I think I want to keep them on.” You smirked, earning another sound of disapproval from Loki’s identical rival, pulling him back to your face. Wildly, he hummed into the cavern of your mouth, as the pair of you stumbled around on the spaceship.

“Bedrooms are down the hall to the right.” Nebula informed you, her voice monotone, and in turn, you dragged the god towards said direction, finally releasing all the tension that had been pent up through the years.

Tags

@nickkie1129

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wrenhyperfixates · 3 years

Text

Kissing Your Worries Away

Pairing: Loki x reader Summary: A bad dream interrupts your sleep, but Loki steps in to save you from your demons. Warnings: a tiny bit angsty, I suppose, and some depressive/anxious thoughts A/N: Hello my lovely nonny! This was such fun to write, thank you for requesting it. Hope you enjoy :)

Tag List: @lucywrites02 @frostedgiant @lunarmoon8 @twhiddlestonsstuff @lokistan

Disclaimer: Gif not mine

It was odd, Loki thought, the differences between dating on Asgard and Midgard. Most of the things done on Earth would have been considered improper, and sometimes even scandalous where he came from. Now, he didn’t really do much dating back on his home planet, and it would have been referred to as courting, anyway. In any case, he knew quite a bit about it, having desired companionship through his long, lonely years. And then along came you, nothing but a mere mortal who somehow meant so much more than that to him. You’d enchanted him with your kind smile, loving attitude, and perfect personality. That’s how he perceived you, anyway; it was like you two were soulmates.

Of course, Loki had not made the first move. Then again, maybe you didn’t really either. He had been too scornful in the beginning to realize what was right in front of him was exactly what he was looking for. Even with his rather callous attitude, you’d persisted and broken down his walls. A friendship, strong as the branches of Yggdrasil, was forged between you two. That, however, made Loki too fearful to ask you out, for if you had rejected him, he’d have lost you entirely. Little did he know, you’d been going through the same thoughts in your head. It wasn’t until one night of reading on the couch when you had kissed each other—it was still unclear to both of you who had actually initiated it, so you decided to call it a mutual action—that you were able to move past your uncertainties. As for who had officially asked who out, it was once again unclear, though Loki insisted it was you.

“My apologies,” he’d said after you’d kissed. “I should not have done that.”

“Loki,” you’d replied, shaking your head. “That’s what I wanted to do, too. And, I wouldn’t mind doing it in public, either, you know.”

“Well then, we shall do just that.”

For the next week after, the Avengers had to endure longing yet excited glances and gentle touches between you two. Loki wasn’t much for PDA, unless of course he was feeling particularly jealous, but he didn’t mind the small gestures. The rest of the team simultaneously found it adorable and sickeningly sweet. Not to mention how odd it seemed once they remembered how the trickster god used to be. Regardless, Loki was excited to take you out for a date. You’d gone to a nice restaurant in the city, and you’d both thoroughly enjoyed yourselves. For the second date, though, you insisted on just having a casual, quiet night in. And that is how Loki found himself knocking on the door to your quarters in a tee shirt and sweatpants, though nothing too baggy as he never was a fan of that style for himself.

“Loki!” you greeted with a bright smile. “I’ve got the movie all ready to go, and the snacks all laid out, so I’m ready to start whenever you are.”

“I do believe there is one other thing we must do first,” he said, walking into the room.

You crinkled your nose and tried to figure out what he meant, asking, “What’s that?”

“This,” he answered, pulling you in for a kiss.

By the time you broke away, you were both a little out of breath, and Loki couldn’t help but chuckle at how adorable you looked. Not only that, but you were incredibly beautiful, too. He cupped your cheek and kissed you again, unable to fight the urge.

“Alright, I think I am ready to begin now,” he informed you as he pulled away again, knowing that if he did not stop now, he’d keep going all night.

You nodded along, still a little flustered from the intimate moment. Hand in hand, you and your raven haired prince walked over to the couch and settled in under the blankets. Even though you’d begun already tucked under one of his arms, you got increasingly close to him during the film, snuggling closer and closer as the minutes ticked by. Eventually, you fell asleep against him, the slackening of your arms around him immediately alerting him. The movie was not yet over, and he wondered if he should go or stay until the end. He decided that if you were to wake up, you might be disappointed that he left, so he remained where he was. Besides that dilemma, he wasn’t really sure how to react to the fact you trusted him enough to sleep in his presence. It was, in his opinion, the ultimate show of trust to allow yourself to be so vulnerable around someone. Even in all your time as friends, you’d never done anything like this before.

Before long, your arms were tightening around him again, and he expected to see your eyes flutter open at any second. They didn’t though. In fact, you were whimpering a little, softly at first, but then louder. Before he could react to that, your body began to shake and the whines grew louder still.

“Darling,” he whispered. “What is it? Are you feeling well?”

You did not respond, and after a minute of befuddlement, he realized you were still asleep. Not only that, you were having a nightmare. He flashed back to the countless nights when he’d woken up in a state much like yours, and how each time he’d wished for someone to comfort him. Well, he was here for you now.

“Do not fret, my love, I am here. I will protect you,” he said, though softly enough to not wake you up, but rather just penetrate your dreams. “Nothing can happen to you so long as you are in my arms.”

Carefully maneuvering your bodies, he brought you to a laying position. Facing you, he smoothed out the crinkles of your forehead with a kiss. Arms wrapped around you, he rubbed your back and alternated between humming and speaking reassurances. Even when your body finally relaxed, he didn’t stop. Rather, he peppered even more little kisses on your face until a smile overtook your features. He pulled the blanket tightly around you, and placing one last kiss to your head, got ready to go to sleep, too.

“Loki,” you whispered, still half asleep, just as his eyes began to slip shut. “I love you.”

“I love you, too, darling,” he said back, drifting off into a dreamless sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Loki’s eyes snapped open. It was still dark out, but he knew something had awoken him. He quickly wracked his brain, trying to figure out if not the light, then what? That’s when your small whimpers registered in his brain again. How he had wished he wouldn’t need to disturb your rest, but it was obvious that you needed to talk about whatever it was that was bothering you. Before the dream could get too bad, he said your name and rubbed your back until you awoke.

“Is the movie over?” you asked in a groggy voice, feeling very disoriented.

“Yes, it has been for a while. The issue here, though, is that you were having a nightmare. The second one of the night, I might add. Will you tell me what is wrong? Please? I only wish to help.”

“I know.”

You didn’t say anything else, and Loki didn’t press, lest he drive you away or further upset you. He just kept tracing circles on your back until you were ready to continue.

“I just, I don’t know, feel so insecure sometimes. Like I’m just not enough, no matter what I do. And that whenever I get close to someone like this, it doesn’t matter because they’re just going to leave me anyway. God, it sounds so stupid when I say it out loud.”

“It does not. Do not discredit your emotions like that,” Loki scolded. “It is perfectly valid to feel insecure, but you must tell me so I can reassure you that I will never, ever leave you for anything in the nine realms or beyond. You mean too much to me for me to leave, darling. I love you.”

You hugged him closer, nuzzling into the crook of his neck. Naturally, those words didn’t chase all your doubts away. After all, that is all they were: words. And from the God of Lies, no less. Still, though, you trusted Loki in your heart, and it helped a great deal.

“Thank you, Loki. I hope you know I feel the same way about you,” you said into his skin.

“I believe it with all my heart, darling.”

Then he placed one final lingering kiss to your lips for the night before you both went back to sleep in each other’s arms, feeling much lighter than you had in a long time.

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wolfish-trickster · 3 years

Text

Advent kisses

11/24

Word count: 1 342 (the longest I've ever written, probably won't make future parts this long)

Summary: Instead of chocolates, kisses are going to be recieved everyday until Christmas.

Tag list: @gaitwae @lucywrites02 @modestlyabsurd @winterfrostsarmy @spaceyempress @thefridgeismybestie @laramoonworld @birdgirl90

A/N: this part contains reader's hair being braided, if your hair isn't long enough to be braided, imagine Loki made your hair temporary longer with magic.

Last night was hard. Old memmories swam to surface, tears were shed. That night he dreamt of his mother. They were by the lake in the forrest. How she listened to him talking about you. How she gave him relationship advice. How she met you. How the three of you laughed.

His chest hurt when he woke up from that beautiful lie his mind made up. A reality that will forever be his dream.

As it turned out, all of the Avengers were busy as hell. Either by going out and buying gifts, or by hanging out in their rooms and just 'chilling'.

He made himself tea in the kitchen and went to library. You weren't there. But that was okay. He wanted to be alone for a little while. He didn't pick any book to occupy him. He just wandered around, feeling backs of the books with the tips of his fingers. Inhaling the scent of old books. Checking out the secret parts hidden in the shaddows. Library in Asgard is much much bigger, but he had to work with what he got.

Eventually he got bored and walked out. The sharp light blinded him momentarily. He never realized how dark it is in library until now. Sadness really makes you notice those little details.

His mind switched to autopilot. He had no idea where his legs were taking him, and honestly, he didn't care.

After minutes of walking he found himself in gym. With Thor. He was stretching after a hard work out session. Thankfully Thor had his back towards him, which gave Loki enough time to tirn around and hide. He really didn't have the mood to listen about Jane Foster's awesomness again.

"Brother, wait!" this close. Loki was this close to be out of the gym and yet, fate just HAD TO turn Thor around and spot him.

"I'm in no mood for whatever you want to tell me," Loki felt giant heavy hand land on his shoulder.

"Loki, Y/N told me about yesterday," Loki didn't know how to react. How to feel. She promised it will be their little secret. How could she?

Apparently he had a face of betrayal and Thor noticed. "Wait, no she didn- ahm. Let me rephrase. In the morning she looked a little off. I asked her what happened and she said it's a secret and she can't tell me. She only told me you showed her your sketches. I figured out the rest," Thor hugged him, to Loki's surprise."I miss her too."

Loki didn't like to look weak, especially in front of oh perfect golden Thor. But he made an exception. Before he got too comfortable he pushed his brother away. "Before you continue, take a shower first," Thor chuckled and pat him on the shoulder. Both knew Loki didn't mean it.

The trickster in him woke up and got an idea.

He was on his way to your room. Hopefully you'll be there. And you were. Along with Bruce. You were sitting criss-cross on your fluffy carpet. Both pairs of eyes shot towards him. Your smile froze upon seeing his angry face. "You lied to me," he snarled.

"I-I d-don't know wh-" "You told Thor. Thor told Tony, Tony told Natasha and so on. How could you?" he was probably cruel, but the confusion on your face was beyond hilarious.

"Loki, what are yo-" "Silence Banner," even without raising his voice he sounded scary.

"I-I... I-"

"How could you tell everyone I can draw?"

"W-what?"

"Wait, Loki can draw?"

The angry facade broke and Loki started laughing. Your and Banner's faces were priceless. Both of you looked like confused puppies.

"I'm so sorry for scaring you. I just wanted to cheer myself up, and how better than with a little prank?"

Bruce stood up. "Don't do that again. I realy thought you're gonna rip our heads of."

"Look who's talking. By the way, what were you doing here? With Y/N?" nope, he wasn't jealous, no way.

"I needed her advice. I'm not stealing her from you," and with that he disappeared sooner than Loki could even think of a sarcastic comeback.

"Advice with what?" he asked as he sat down beside you.

"Can't tell you, it's a secret. And Bruce is right, don't scare me like that again."

"Hehe, don't worry, I don't plan to. Hey, you've been practicing," he noticed papers spread around with various sketches of faces.

"Yeah, they're really bad," you scratched your head.

"Darling, it's only matter of practice. No one was born with a complete skill. They had to work for it. Why don't you draw someone. Right now. I could teach you as you go."

"Okay," Loki passed you a clear paper and moved to sit on your bed, gently pulling you between his knees. "W-what are you doing?"

"I want to braid your hair darling. Just like you braided mine. Besides I have a much better view from up here."

He let his hand glide through through your hair. It was so soft.

"Hey, who should I draw?"

"Doesn't matter darling," he split your hair into three strands and started working. Left to the center. Right to the center. And so on.

He glanced down at your paper from time to time. You finished basic sketch and started to work on details. It was quite hard to deduce who you drew. Sharp cheekbones, strong jawline, wise looking eyes. A family member perhaps?

He was enjoying how you let your head fall on his thigh. He closed his eyes. His fingers got lost in your hair, he couldn't care less if he messed up your braids.

He heard your soft giggle and could practically hear you pout. "You're not even looking. How are you supposed to teach me something?"

"Apologies darling, I find your presence deeply comforting and couldn't help but close my eyes and relax. So it's basically your fault I'm not paying attention," he opened his eyes and teasingly booped your nose.

"Well, professor Loki, teacher of fine arts, I'm finished. Grade me," you handed him your drawing.

You drew him. His cheekbones weren't that sharp and the drawing's eyes were a little out of place, but besides that it was beautiful. You were trying so hard, you put maximum effort into your creation and it showed.

"There are few mistakes here and there, but besides that it's great. Now, do tell," he grabbed you by your waist and sat you on one of his thighs, "why did you choose to draw me?"

"What makes you think I drew you?"

Loki's smile faded a little. "Who else would have such god-like long dark hair?"

You didn't bat an eye as you said: "Hozier."

"......who?"

You burst out laughing. "Just kidding Loki, of course it's you. I can't believe it! I pranked the king of pranks!"

Loki had the biggest heart eyes ever as he joined your laugh. There is nothing greater for Loki than love for pranks, which you shared. This fact made Loki even more desperate to win your heart by the end of the 'advent time'.

He got hold of your non-bandaged hand. "That you did darling. Be proud, not many can claim the 'pranked the god of pranks' title," he lifted your wrist to his lips and tasted the skin over your pulse in a loving kiss, "and still be alive to tell the story," he finished with a mischevious wink.

You blushed and playfully shoved punched him in the chest. "Loki! You can't say things like that!"

"Why not? I have a reputation to maintain, I can't risk having another trouble maker in my territory," 'outside of our future children.'

"Hey, I know this is completely out of the blue question, but what was your first prank?"

He hugged your waist and pulled you closer to him. You were in for a long night of talking and laughing. Loki was glad he didn't stay alone like he planned to.

#loki #loki laufeyson #loki odinson #loki x reader #loki fluff #fluffy loki #christmas fic #the avengers #fluff

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gryfon-spanish-werewolf · 4 years

Note

Uuh dunno if you would like this prompt : Anna and Elsa as a mythical creatures.

Would love too see what you will write them as ^^

@like-redhead-probably I sat thinking about this ask for a long time, because while I IMMEDIATELY thought of one for Elsa, Anna’s absolutely eluded me. And I know you were probably looking for a story, but I am unable to stop myself from first EXPLAINING my choices xD

I was already thinking about the myth of the Hulder (or huldra if we’re speaking of the creature in general instead of the specific Norwegian myth) for other story-related reasons, and as I did more research, I felt like the Hulder REALLY shared similarities with Elsa.

Generally speaking the huldra is a Scandinavian myth of a pale skinned, blonde or brown haired, attractive young woman who lives in the wilderness, often luring men away with song or dance to be killed or misled, stuck wandering forever. Sometimes she’s connected strongly to water, and instead of making men lost, she drowns them. Sometimes she is described as similar to an elf or fey-like creature, with characteristics related to other Huldufolk (we’ll get to them later) such as living in a parallel world, or a world Underground, and therefore preferring caves or appearing and disappearing suddenly. Sometimes she is depicted as having a hollow back, or a cow’s tail, which she hides out of embarrassment or to conceal her true identity. Which… how cute is that?

Before the 11th century, the myths were focussed more around the Huldufolk, which literally means “Hidden Folk”. There are lots of stories as to why and how the Huldufolk came to exist, but for the purpose of Elsa I think it most appropriate to look at the Christianization of the myths. Why?:

Frozen and Frozen 2 are modern movies made by an American company and Christianity is nigh untanglable with American culture, they take place in ~1840s Norway, F1 has a dedicated place of Christian congregation depicted in said movie, an official royal crowning overseen by a Christian faith leader, and the adaptation of Frozen generally comes from author Hans Christian Anderson and therefore should take his life and society into account, etc.

The Christianized myth says that one day Eve was washing her children (presumably after Cain, Abel, and Seth) in the river, when she heard God approaching. Ashamed that He would see her kids unclean, she hid the half she wasn’t done bathing, and when God asked, “Where are the other children?” Eve claimed that she had all of them present, indicating the clean ones. This gave God pause, but in the end He said, “Then let all that is Hidden, remain Hidden.” The children that Eve lied about became the Huldufolk, unable to live among humans. These people would eventually become characterized as dwarves, elves, fairies, etc., as time and interpretations rolled on, the huldra being just one of many mythical “species”.

So. Who is Elsa? She’s a:

fictional, blonde-haired, blue-eyed, fair-skinned young woman who led thousands of men wlw to wander helplessly into the dark caves and wildlands of social media with a power ballad and a jaw-dropping transformation sequence

Okay I’m joking… mostly…

In fact my interest in choosing the Hulder for Elsa lies purely outside of any romantic or sexual appeal, especially since Elsa as a character exhibits next to 0 romantic or sexual interest across two whole movies and an additional two shorts. Indeed, there’s a reason people headcanon her as either asexual, aromantic, or both! No, the reasons I chose the Hulder are:

Elsa’s name

Her upbringing

Her duty as queen, and

Her general behavior, specifically in regards to Frozen 1, as Frozen 2 Elsa is, at times, an almost completely different character

Elsa’s name was chosen very specifically by the filmmakers because it means “God is my Oath”. Oaths are binding, heavy, and invoke the maker’s or subject’s actions and personhood in the future. In Elsa’s case specifically, it invokes divine witness: perfect for a queen, someone born to rule. A promise to be fair, to uphold, to protect, to lead, to be a dignified and honorable face for the country. And Elsa was so ready to be that… except for the powers of course. Or at least, when they became something other than a magical gift of wonder and joy. When they became dangerous. Then there comes another oath, spoken to powerful creatures of magic, the Trolls, and born from parental fear: “She can learn to control it.”

Binding, heavy, invoking of Elsa’s future. As she grows, Elsa becomes closed off, quiet, hiding in her own home. She still takes her duties seriously, but now that she has been Other’d, taught to hide herself and her curse, she is just as much shadow as person. To young Anna, Elsa must have been almost ghostlike, disappearing right when Anna thought she’d cornered her, only to reappear sometime later down the hall, out of arm’s reach.

God promised Adam and Eve that their children would inherit the earth, even after leaving the Garden of Eden. Then suddenly that changed, due to Eve’s fear and shame of her unwashed children, and some would now inherit Underground, or somewhere else entirely. The lost children of Eve had become Other’d, needing to hide, disappear, and resort to inhuman tactics just to exist. Maybe they’re jealous, maybe they're just tricksters. But it’s not their fault. And it wasn’t Elsa’s either. Another reason they are similar.

Now, it’s not all doom and gloom for the Hulder, or for Elsa. While the Hulder is generally known for her more chaotic and negative attributes - just like our favorite snow queen, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. There are a few myths that say burning a charcoal fire -instead of a coal or gas one- is most pleasing to the Hulder, that she’ll even watch over it during the night, and wake the sleepers in case something happens. If a traveler leaves supplies behind with a note or offering for the Hulder, they will travel safely. In fact, some people leave caches for her, as though to cater to specific requests. Coming across the Hulder by chance can have a multitude of outcomes, but if an astute observer spots her cow tail and mentions it, she may become shy and run away. Don’t mention the empty back though, that’s almost certain death.

Basically my point is… trade out the word “traveler” for the name “Anna” and we can draw all the similarities we want. Anna did all of those things, in a way. Anna gave Elsa a little gift of their favorite snowman every Christmas. Anna knocked on Elsa’s door and spoke to her, treated her kindly despite the distance between them, literal and metaphorical. It’s not hard to imagine that Anna left little notes around the castle, hoping Elsa would find them, read them, and know that Anna still loved her, still missed her. And, well, hopefully Anna wasn’t setting any fires and falling asleep next to them - but Anna always kept a light on for Elsa, in her heart. And it flickered and wavered sometimes, but it was a strong fire most days. And we know Elsa was always drawn to it, drawn to Anna because she loved her right back. Loved her first, even. And because it was a warmth that pleased Elsa, she tended it, quietly, carefully, warmly. Like putting a blanket over an Anna that had fallen asleep in the painting room, refusing that slice of chocolate cake so Anna could have two desserts, and listening, for hours and hours, days and days, for the sound of Anna’s glorious bonfire-like soul outside her bedroom door. Even when her secret was revealed, Elsa believed that the best way to protect Anna’s life, her flame, was to distance herself, running to a secret, special place all her own - much like the Hulder might run away back to the Underground.

And this last part’s just me, but I’d like to think that if the Hulder was treated kindly, respected, and given dignity, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad if someone came across her accidentally. That instead of being instantly drowned, or the Hulder becoming sheepish and attempting to run, it would feel recognized. It could be called by name. And instead of feeling the need to hide it’s Otherness, it could be treated as part of it, and cared for just the same. I don’t even need to be subtle here: Anna called Elsa by Name, really saw her, and reframed her darkness into light. Anna hasn’t fought God yet, but she did walk through hell and back for a sister that everyone else saw as a threat, monster, and sorcerer. A category 9 Other. Too bad for them, Anna’s got a Category 10 heart.

Speaking of. We finally got to Anna.

Anna was difficult to pin down because to me, Anna is so very, very human. That’s what makes her special! Yes, yes, you could throw any mythical creature at Anna and the fun part would be trying to make it work within her personality and characterization BUT since the question was Anna AS a mythical creature, that changes the game! The word ‘creature’ itself tends to conjure something distinctly INhuman. So I…. tried, and cheated maybe a little. Because I picked for Anna the Norse Valkyrie.

Most people know what Valkyries are so this one takes significantly less explaining. Valkyries are women that are warriors, shieldmaidens, and the hands of Odin, and they choose who lives and who dies during battle. Their chosen dead ride with them to Valhalla, while those they choose to live are usually granted honors in life. There are the darker sides of Valkyries that paint them as blood hungry maidens waiting on the sidelines before a war, singing the names of who will die with glee… but generally speaking the version of Valkyries that most people know and admire today are accurate! And thank goodness because attempting to depict Anna the other way would probably give me an ulcer.

Anna, much like the Valkyries, is a woman of valor and strength, who is perceptive, guides others, sees into people’s hearts and reveals their goodness. Valkyries are also warriors of prowess themselves, and Anna in Frozen 2 with that ice sword? We all know she was ready to use that for real. She also exemplifies traits that Valkyries both look for and have! Bravery in the face of danger: hello Marshmallow, Elsa’s own blizzard, Hans’ lethal sword strike, LIVING MOUNTAINS, and a damn collapsing.... dam. She also defends those who cannot do it themselves: saying publicly that, “My sister is not a monster… she was scared, she didn’t mean any of this,” even if that cast suspicion or doubt on herself, and the crown, as a whole. Anna knew and believed in Elsa, despite all the years and heartbreak and anger. Despite the impossible magic that literally just happened before her very eyes. Belief in character, despite appearances. And once they were reunited, Anna made every effort to stay by Elsa’s side because she STILL had that faith in her. Anna’s name means “Grace” or “of Grace”, and damn if she didn’t extend that to the person others found most unworthy, even to Elsa herself. Valkyries see what others don’t, and their decisions are final.

[Deep breath] SO! You asked for Anna and Elsa as mythical creatures. You got… a small academic paper, by social media standards xD. I intend to write a little piece about a Valkyrie who encounters the Hulder on the edges of a battlefield and… realizes she never made a choice about this particular woman. And wonders why she can’t ;). BUT I didn’t wanna leave you hanging any longer. Hope you like my choices!

Oh also, nobody asked, but Kristoff is a werebear. No research required

#there's almost 2k words to this uhhh..... eyup that's all I have to say about that #the inner academic kinda popped out #begging to be utilized after a few dusty years xD #I have links to all this stuff btw if people want them #but now I should REALLY go to bed #or I'll be slowly flame-broiled by a certain someone who is about to find out I'm awake in the worst way possible #like-redhead-probably #mythical creature au #Hulder!Elsa #Valkyrie!Anna #mythology #also yes I know I didn't stray far from Scandinavian territories for the mythical choices I couldn't help it #once I got digging into the huldra I had a hard time looking anywhere else #still I think Valkyrie fits so nicely for anna #she might as well be on irl tbh #Elsa #Anna #my writing #and yeah I'll get to a little short story bc they're so CUTE like this!!

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98prilla · 4 years

Text

Comfort

I’m still tagging you in this @coquettishcass because it’s still a continuation of my ideas based on your art, and I know you’re here for the feels :)

Another little story about some sides having issues and helping each other out, this one starring Deceit and Patton, cameo courtesy of Remus.

He’s tired. He's emptily, exhaustedly tired. He's burrowed under all his blankets, his heating pad, and he still isn’t warm. He’s never warm. He is tired, so tired, but he can't sleep, won't sleep.

He shivers, curling tighter under the covers, not even his head poking out from under them, and wonders about the chances of accidently smothering himself.

Wouldn’t that be ironic? After everyone has made clear how much he isn’t wanted, if he were to accidentally off himself, and solve their problem for them.

He can hear his stomach rumbling, but he doesn’t move, doesn’t have the energy to find food. That would require getting up, which is off the table. Moving at all, is barely achievable. Just continuing to breathe takes all his will, the goal of moving is laughable.

He can feel the loathing. It crawls up his spine and settles in his stomach. It weighs him down and burns like stinging nettles over each inch of his skin. His cheeks are burning and he feels hot, angry tears dripping down his face.

If he was better, maybe they would listen to him, like him, care about him. But he’s not going to stop doing his job just because they don’t like it, and maybe he would be willing to open up a little, if they’d ever given him a single iota of a reason to trust them.

And he will never earn their trust because they only see him as a liar, as a trickster, as a villain.

He lets out a soft sob, hugging the pillow he’d slept with closer to his chest, burying his face in it.

God, it still smelled like Virgil, his favorite coffee, ink, paper. The pillowcase had been in the laundry when he left, it hadn’t moved with his room.

Just the thought makes him choke out another quiet sob and hold the pillow tighter. He knows that’s his fault, too, and the guilt just adds to his loathing because he misses Virgil. He misses him like one of his arms has been torn off, like his scales when they first came in, like the heat of the sun in his skin.

A quiet knock. He knows who it will be. There’s only one person who cares enough to come looking, who cares at all. He doesn’t respond. The door creaks open anyways.

“DeeDee?” he manages to make his sniffles quieter, barely shaking under the blankets now, not that Remus has ever judged him for these episodes. It’s their silent pact, the others judge enough for both of them. They just accept each other unconditionally. Once Virgil did, too. But he’s gone and hates them now and it’s his fault.

“DeeDee, can you at least eat something for me? Please?” the others wouldn’t believe that Remus is capable of being quiet or gentle or soft, but he can be, he is now, he always is when it comes to him, and for some reason it just breaks him more.

“No.” he manages to get out through his shaky voice and hoarse throat. Even that is like climbing a mountain in its difficulty.

“Dee, please. Just try, just a little?” Remus is almost pleading, but he just shakes his head, summoning the effort for words.

“Can’t. Will just come back up.” His voice trembles. He hates that Remus is here, hates being seen like this, hates that he is this. This pathetic lump who doesn’t even have the care to move, who won’t eat, who is denying all his survival instincts when he is literally the embodiment of someone’s survival instincts.

“Dee, it’s been days. You’re going to kill yourself at this rate.” A hint of desperation tinges Remus's voice, and he laughs. Broken, shattered laughter.

“I should. It would make things so much easier, wouldn’t it? If I just…” he chokes on the bitterness of his own words, hate, hate, hate, eating at him, tearing him apart inside, because he hurts and he deserves it.

He hears the sound of sinking out. Remus is gone. Left him, because he pushed him away. Just like Virgil. God, he never learns, does he? He truly is worthless, truly, deserves to be alone.

He hears the door again. It could be minutes, could be hours, later. No one speaks, but he hears quiet, hesitant, footsteps. Or he thinks he does, he’s gone long enough without sleep to start hallucinating.

“Deceit?” ah, hallucinating it is, because that is Patton’s voice, and he would never, has never, come to his room. Doesn’t even know where it is. “Deceit, are you… feeling ok?” he laughs again, that broken, edged with glass laugh that cuts his throat raw, sends tears streaming down his face, curling tighter into his pillow.

“That’s a laugh and a half.” His voice is rough, scraped and bruised and battered. He knows how this goes. He knows the script.

Knows that Patton will tell him he’s wrong, Thomas doesn’t need to lie, doesn’t need Deceit, and he will be unable to defend himself because not even he can lie that well. He is anything but needed. He would have let go, let himself fade ages ago, but he promised Remus he wouldn’t leave. He couldn’t leave Remus alone like that, not after Virgil left, and it was his fault, and besides... he could wait.

Sooner rather than later, he knows the others will come to accept Remus. He’s so much like Roman, he’s half of creativity, after all, and Virgil doesn’t hate Remus, not like Virgil hates him. Thomas is already open to discussing the more helpful of the dark topics only Remus has domain over, it won’t be long now.

He’s happy for Remus, he truly is. Remus deserves that light, that acceptance, that warmth. Remus deserves to be heard and listened to and surrounded by their love. Remus is a star, a brilliant, burning star, and soon the others will know it too.

Then he will be left all alone, in the dark and the cold and the quiet. That’s what he longs for, what he aches for, the emptiness that he will let fill him, let weigh down his limbs, let soak into him until he can’t move, doesn’t need to breathe, until he just... vanishes. But not until Remus is gone, and settled. Not until Remus forgets about him down here, just like everyone else, and he can go quietly and peacefully without upsetting anyone. Because even though they all hate him, he is still afraid of upsetting them.

“Oh, kiddo...” Patton. He’s forgotten about his hallucination of Patton. He wonders idly if he’s speaking out loud or thinking in his head, he can’t quite tell the difference anymore, and he wouldn’t really care either way, except that means his grasp is slipping and he cannot, will not, fall asleep.

“Why not, Deceit?” He chokes back the fear that floods him, that even thinking of why not brings. Why not? Oh, what hasn’t he seen, in those dreams, in the dreams that already come when he’s at his lowest, when he can’t keep himself together, that drive him deeper and deeper into his own apathy, and loathing and disconnect?

He sees Virgil, trying to leave, wanting to leave, and instead he grabs, forces him back, locks him up, chains him, tortures him, reprograms him. The whole time he is screaming, screaming inside, screaming at himself to stop, what are you doing, just let him go, Virgil, no, please!

He sees Remus, torn apart by some fanged, clawed, venom laced monster, and he can’t get to him in time, he can’t stop the bleeding, he doesn’t know the antivenom, if there is antivenom, and Remus is seizing in his arms, shaking violently, babbling incoherently, but his eyes are clear as they meet his, and he wants to scream or cry or make it all ok, but it’s not, because Remus is bleeding out in his arms, he is dying and he cannot fix it and Remus knows it too, forgiving him and saying a thousand loving goodbyes with his eyes-

He sees Logan, losing his mind, having enough of their small jabs and their inattention, a victim to all the feelings Logan has and is pretending don’t exist, shifting and changing and warping like a distorted mirror until nothing Logan was left, and Insanity stood in his place, wild and manic and broken, and he couldn’t put this right, couldn’t help but shift Insanity’s room to the dark side, knowing he’d be blamed, knowing they would come for him and demand answers and not believe him and he would take it all, because Logan was gone, and he had to protect them, because Insanity would tear them apart in the exact same way Logan had always built them up.

He saw Roman, usually so proud and loud and strong and vibrant, now colored in shades of gray, every trace of emotion leaking out of him, all of his passion and strength and hope fading out as the bruised ego has had enough, can’t take it anymore, as he fades into Apathy, and the others don’t understand, don’t even notice the difference, just continue to demand ideas and inspiration and he is powerless to help Roman, because they won’t let him anywhere near him, they don’t understand!

He sees Patton, his worst enemy, his harshest critic, his greatest rival, exploding like a supernova. All the emotions are too much, too overwhelming, he’s lied to himself about the bad ones for too long, and the mindscape is torn apart by their strength and he tries to reach Patton through the supernovas exploding in the dark, he manages to take his hand, he manages to swallow Patton’s pain, he manages to hold it all inside him as it explodes, tears him apart, tears him to shreds, and it hurts, it hurts exquisitely, and he knows it will kill him, but it won’t destroy the mindscape, inside of him. It won’t destroy Patton, and that’s the important thing, because no one needs him, no one wants him, anyway, and Patton is more important, Patton is worth something, despite everything between them, he would throw himself in front of any danger to protect Patton, because that is his job, and Patton is needed, in a way he is not, will never be needed. Patton is wanted in the same way that he is not, and now he is gone.

He is shaking again. Shaking so hard his teeth are nearly chattering, because now that the images are there he can’t make them leave, he sees them in front of his eyes, whether they’re open or closed, and he wishes this figment of Patton would just leave, just leave him to his misery because it is only going to get worse from here, he is only going to fall apart more, and even an imaginary Patton witnessing this is too much to bear.

But part of him wants Patton to stay, because if Patton leaves, then it will be one of the others, and though Patton is cruel, at least he is unintentional in his coldness. He knows Roman’s fiery vitriol will burn him, knows Logan’s cold analysis will break him, knows Virgil’s biting words will lash his skin like a thousand whips from a cat o nine tails, knows that Patton is the first of a long list of cruelties his own mind will subject him to, because his own mind recognizes that he deserves the punishment, deserves the pain, deserves to be hated and abandoned and destroyed and he desperately, desperately wants to let it all go, knows exactly how easy it would be to let go, how much time it would take, exactly where in the subconscious he will hide so no one will find, not that they’d come looking, but still, ever present, is Remus. Not yet, he has to hold on, he has to, because he won’t, won’t leave Remus, at least until Remus leaves him for better and brighter things, takes his rightful place up there, with the others.

He feels something. Fingers, gently teasing through his hair, the only part of him peeking out from the covers. He flinches at first, and they pause, but after a moment continue, and he realizes he hears humming as well, though it is shaky, shaky as his own voice was the last time he spoke. Or remembered speaking, he can’t tell the difference anymore between thoughts and words.

Then the thought hits him and he jerks upright, clutching the blanket to his chest, trembling as he looks at Patton, feeling shame and bile rise in his throat, because hallucinations can’t touch, have never physically touched him before, so this isn’t a figment, this is actually Patton, he just said all that to the actual Patton.

And now... well, now he knows. Now Patton knows every one of his weaknesses, every one of his fears, every one of his regrets and mistakes and they will be used against him and laughed at later as Patton tells the others what a hopeless, stupid fool Deceit is, as if he had any more to lose, when it came to them, as if they could resent him and antagonize him more if they tried.

He closes his eyes and pulls his knees to his chest, still hugging his pillow around his middle, burying his face back in it, where he can pretend this isn’t happening, pretend that Patton hasn’t somehow ended up in his room, pretend that he’s nothing and no one and doesn’t exist because if he did the shame would be eating him alive right now as he cries into a pillow that still smells of his lost best friend.

Pathetic, and weak, and useless, and stupid, and a waste, a waste of time, of space, of words, of energy.

“Oh... oh honey, no.” The gentleness in Patton’s voice makes him flinch, so different than what he is accustomed to, it throws him off guard. At least with the vitriol he knew what to expect, could brace himself, he doesn’t know what this kindness means or is leading towards.

He feels arms around him. Patton’s arms. Hugging him. And God it is heaven. It is warm, so comfortingly warm, the world seems muted, his mind too stunned to think, too cozy and warm and trying to process touch, being touched, he is being touched, and it is nice and he isn’t cold.

Then he practically falls into Patton’s lap, still curled tight, still holding the pillow tight, face now pressing against Patton’s cardigan, his scent of warm, clean laundry and chocolate chip cookies, he is soft and warm, and Patton’s arms are around him, holding him, rocking him, murmuring soft, kind, loving, words, and he’s shocked at every single one of them, because Patton isn’t lying, Patton believes what he’s saying.

He doesn’t know how long they stay like that. Patton’s shirt is nearly soaked with his tears. Patton is rubbing circles on his back, and it feels so damn good, he can’t find it in him to pull away, as much as his reputation demands it. He figures his reputation is screwed after this anyway.

“How... how did you get in here?” He manages to croak out. He feels Patton let out a soft laugh.

“We were in the living room and Remus just kinda popped up out of nowhere and grabbed me. He didn’t say much, but he was worried and more serious than I’ve ever seen him, so I just kinda went with it. I... I'm sorry, Deceit. I’m sorry, that we made you feel this way. I’m sorry we made you feel like you couldn’t tell us you were feeling this way. I’m sorry we haven’t... I haven’t, been treating you right. I will do better. I will make sure everyone does better.” He’s crying again, because Patton isn’t lying, Patton means it, and once Patton sets his heart on something it is near impossible to stop him. He feels Patton’s arms tighten, holding him closer, and he somehow melts even more into the touch, when had he ever been held like this? He thinks he might die, if Patton lets go of him.

“Deceit... how long?” He shrugs.

“This episode? Nearly a week. Usually... usually it doesn’t hit this hard. Last month it was only three. I... every month. At least one... one episode a month. Since... God, since forever.” He mumbles, sniffling, feeling Patton’s sharp inhale.

“Baby, baby, baby, no. Oh, sweetie, I'm sorry. I’m so, so sorry. I don’t want you to fade, I don’t want you to disappear. Please... please if you ever think you’re about to do that, please talk to someone first. It doesn’t have to be me, if you’re not comfortable with that, just someone. Because we would fall apart without you, sweetie, we really, really would.” He’s sobbing again, he can’t seem to stop sobbing, every time he thinks he’s cried himself out, Patton says something else kind or sweet and means it, and he doesn’t know how to handle that, doesn’t know what to do with the care being directed his way, because no one besides Remus cares, and he doesn’t show care like this, like Patton does.

He feels Patton start to pull away. The air is cold, jarringly cold, and he finds himself shivering, his skin burning where Patton had been touching it. He can feel Patton looking at him, frowning at him, and he wonders what he did wrong, this time.

“Nothing, honey. I’m just trying to decide what we should do first. I... Deceit, when was the last time you were hugged?” His face burns, even though he knows the question isn’t intended to shame him.

“Not... not since Virgil... left. Before then only to help him, when he was having an attack... afterwards, to help soothe him. Barely ever.” Patton makes an injured noise in the back of his throat.

“ok. Ok. That’s... I think... I think you’re touch starved, Deceit. And almost actually starving by now. And sleep deprived. So, which of those problems do you wanna tackle first?” He doesn’t know. He can’t think straight. He doesn’t want to sleep, he hates the idea of it right now, but he won’t be any kind of coherent for much longer, and he knows it. He voices as much.

“That’s ok. We can tackle two of them at once then, if you don’t mind.” He looks at Patton with confusion.

“Mind?”

“Cuddling. The best way to help with touch starvation is to experience touch, and the best way to do that is to cuddle! It might... it might help with the nightmares, too. Help you feel safer. And if you wake up from one, I’ll be right here.” The thought of sleep still terrifies him, but he feels a little better about it, if Patton is going to stay.

“...ok. will... will you be ok? In here?” Patton thinks for a moment, tilting his head and pursing his lips.

“Not with as long as you’ll be sleeping. Can we get you settled on the couch?” His face pales at that thought, because what if the others come in, he can’t handle Roman waving his sword, or Virgil’s sneer, or Logan’s coldness. “down here, Dee. As long as I’m not in someone’s room, I’ll be fine. I know you don’t wanna move. Can I sink us there?” He lets out a breath of relief, nodding. He would, but he doesn’t have the energy.

They land right on top of the couch, perfect aim. Immediately Patton busies himself, pulling out the futon and gathering blankets, tucking them in, humming as he quickly gets everything settled. He’s already under them, Patton having worked around him, and he feels himself slipping. He’s shaking again, as he lays down, then he feels Patton settle in behind him, curling around him like a cat around her kitten, swallowing him in warmth and heat and soft, and he rolls over to once again bury his face against Patton’s cardigan as he curls tight against him.

Patton is stroking his hair, rubbing his back, humming softly. He feels Patton rest his head atop his own, feels him gently kiss his unruly, curly hair, usually hidden beneath his hat, and the sensation sends tingles of warmth radiating through him. It takes his breath away, it fills something inside of him that he didn’t know was empty, it radiates peace and comfort and nearly overwhelming love that burns him in a good way.

He’s barely awake when he hears Remus. He can’t bother himself to open his eyes, but he hears Patton reassuring his little slimeball that he’s going to be ok, that Patton is going to make sure it never gets this bad again, and if it does, Remus has full permission to drag him away no matter what he is doing to help. Tentatively, Remus asks something, and Patton’s voice is smiling as he affirms.

Then he feels warmth on his other side, feels more arms wrapping around him, hears Remus whispering apologies and mild death threats, and his own version of words of comfort and kindness, which he has long ago learned to understand.

He is crying again as he finally, finally lets himself fall asleep. But these tears are happy. Because he feels the warmth emanating through him, he is sandwiched between two people who somehow, somehow, love him. He isn’t afraid, this time, as he feels oblivion weighing him down, and he knows, knows, that nightmares won’t dare to touch him this time, not with so much love surrounding him. Not with the promise of more warmth to come. Not when he actually, for the first time in forever, knows he has something to live for.

#sanders sides #deceit sanders #sympathetic deceit #sympathetic remus #depression #touch starvation #Angst with a happy ending #emotional hurt/comfort #everyone needs a hug #and everyone gets a hug #remus sanders #patton sanders

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alirhi · 3 years

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Title: Winter's Frost Chapter: 26/? Fandom: MCU Rating: R to be on the safe side Pairing: Loki/Bucky Summary: Loki never told anyone the realreason he became so obsessed with Midgard. Much better to let them think he wanted to hurt his brother than draw their attention to the one thing in the universe that makes the God of Mischief truly vulnerable. Notes: Taking a little creative license with the mythology. If Marvel can fuck around with it, I can, too XD

Whatever Loki had been expecting subconsciously as he prepared himself for this meeting, the Queen Mother far exceeded it. Skadi was beautiful, ageless, and she exuded a strength that was palpable even from across the cavernous room. Fighting to hide his awe of her but unable to fully suppress his somewhat giddy smile, he bowed slightly. He was relieved when, without being prompted, Bucky bowed much lower than he had.

"So, Loki Odinson of Asgard." His smile instantly faded at that title, and the disdain in her voice.

"Laufeyson, actually," he snapped. "Did you think I dipped myself in blue paint before I arrived?"

Once again, a hand resting softly on his shoulder made him glance at Bucky, who was shaking his head in warning. "Loki..."

He huffed, but collected himself and forced a cordial smile as he returned his attention to the other end of the room. His brothers stood to either side of their mother, all three looking darkly amused at his expense. Squashing down his ego for the sake of diplomacy, Loki ignored it and pushed on. "Forgive me. I'm not here to quibble about names. For some time, I was raised to believe I was a son of Odin, but as you can see, I've found my way past Odin's lies and have returned home."

"Home?" Helblindi snorted. "The dwarf thinks he can find a home here?"

"Isn't that precious?"

Though she, too, looked like she wanted to laugh, Skadi held up a hand to silence her sons' chortling and teasing. "This was never your home, Odinson. Don't think that just because you've made yourself pariah on Asgard, you can run here to hide. We have no use for a runt with an inflated ego; we already have a court jester."

"Okay, fuck diplomacy," Bucky growled, looking like he wanted to rip them all apart with his bare hands. "Show these arrogant blue bitches what you can do."

Though normally his lover's support would have made him smile, Loki was rather distracted by an unexpected stab of pain as his heart splintered. Somewhere deep down, he'd hoped that Odin's story had been a lie; that he'd been stolen from loving parents who would welcome him back with open arms. Faced now with the overwhelming evidence that he truly had been abandoned, he wasn't sure what to do. He'd already forgotten the true reason he was there in the first place.

"Mother-"

Now even Skadi was laughing. "Is that what you think?! That I would ever produce such a puny reject?" She leaned on Býleistr's shoulder for a moment, both of them openly laughing at the furious, confused Trickster. "This thing thinks I'm its mother! The arrogance!"

"But you're the wife of Laufey-"

"Yes." All traces of humor gone in an instant, she straightened and glared at him. "And you killed him. So tell me, Odinson, why should I not have you executed now and have done with it?"

Well, if Skadi wasn't his mother, at least he didn't have to give a damn what she thought of him. Fuck diplomacy, indeed. Adjusting his coat, Loki stood a bit straighter and took a step forward. "Because you are not the one in power." He nodded to Helblindi. "He is. And since you couldn't keep Laufey's interest, I'm afraid you've lost mine."

"You insolent little-"

"Mother." With a smirk that reminded Loki a little of himself, Helblindi put a hand on Skadi's shoulder to stop her from rushing at their uninvited guest. "Even if he's fallen out of favor for the moment, we risk war if we kill Odin's favorite pet." He nodded to Bucky and grinned. "Why not kill the human, instead? An eye for an eye, a husband for a husband."

"I mean, technically-"

Shaking his head at his lover's adorable fixation on unimportant details, Loki chuckled. "You don't want to do that."

"Why?" Skadi challenged, already reaching for her sword. "It sounds reasonable to me."

"What am I, a prop?"

Somehow until that moment, it had never occurred to him that his shapeshifting power meant he could change his size, as well as his shape. Growing to just a bit taller than the wide-eyed and startled Queen, he grinned. "Because I fight better when it's for someone I love."

With a wave of Loki's hand, a gun appeared in Bucky's. To his credit, his pretty soldier didn't even seem fazed; he calmly checked the mechanisms and readied the weapon to be fired.

"And if I were you, I wouldn't want to fight him."

He had nothing to prove to these people. The realization hit him out of nowhere, and with a soft sigh, he returned to his original height. He had no need to make himself as large as they were; he was more powerful than all of them. With the flick of his wrist, he could have them on their knees.

While Skadi and Býleistr watched Loki's every move with anger and suspicion, Helblindi chuckled and stepped forward. "Why have you come here, little brother? Surely it's nothing so childishly sentimental as looking for a family."

Right. Thanos. Still burning with curiosity about his birth mother, Loki pushed it aside the best he could and approached the King. "A war is coming that threatens to reduce all the Nine Realms to ash. We need to be able to stand together-"

"You're asking for an alliance?" Skadi's mocking, incredulous tone was truly grating on his nerves. "You have no power to speak for Asgard! You have no power at all."

"Tell me, Your Highness," he demanded, "which of Laufey's sons was born first?"

"If you think we'd ever put some half-breed reject on the throne-"

"I've never wanted a throne!" Loki snapped, glaring at her. A spike of ice surged up from the floor; he narrowly stopped it from impaling her. With a growl, he shattered it and explained as calmly as he could, "I was simply making a point. And I do not speak for Asgard. Odin's got his head so far up his ass I doubt he can tell what time it is, much less lead a charge."

Helblindi looked dubious, but intrigued. "Then whom are we to ally ourselves with?"

He deflated slightly, though he did his best not to show it. "...The Avengers. They're a group on Midgard-"

"I've heard of them."

"You have?" Bucky sounded as incredulous as Loki felt; it was rather nice to not have to be the one to voice it.

With an almost-genuine smile, the King nodded to his brother. "Býleistr, bring Farbauti to us, while I talk with her son."

Skadi was fuming. "I will not have that Asgardian whore in my house!"

"It's not your house anymore, Mother," Helblindi calmly reminded her as he gestured for Loki and Bucky to join him at a table set up on the far side of the room. "I can handle things from here."

Eyes wide, Loki watched the Queen Mother storm out of the room. At first, all that registered in his mind was that there was a chance someone was actually listening to him for a change. Then the words 'her son' and 'Asgardian' filtered through the din of his racing thoughts.

By the time Býleistr returned with a nervous looking Aesir woman in tow, all Loki had managed to come up with to say was a somewhat choked, "What?"

___________________________________________________

For those who don't know: in the mythology, Loki is only half Jotun. his mother is never specified as Aesir, but she is referred to as "a goddess" so I figured Asgardian/Aesir is probably a safe bet.

___________________________________________________ Masterlist

#fanfiction #loki #bucky barnes #winter's frost #mcu #avengers #thor #captain america #winter soldier #m/m #loki/bucky #sebastian stan #tom hiddleston

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imagine-loki · 4 years

Text

Hiding in Plain Sight

TITLE: Hiding in Plain Sight CHAPTER NO./ONE SHOT: Chapter One AUTHOR: wolfpawn ORIGINAL IMAGINE:

Imagine coming from a line of nobility or royalty and being in an arranged marriage with Loki in an attempt to strengthen your kingdom / alliance with Asgard. You’re not entirely on board with the idea but figured that the best you could do was to get to know your fiancé.

You form an agreement with Frigga for you to pose as Loki’s personal servant for a few months so you can get to know who Loki really is – beyond the veil of his responsibility to the Asgardian throne, behind all the masks he wears when facing the public, to really know who Loki is behind closed doors as you slowly fall for each other.

How long will you keep up the ruse with the God of Lies?

RATING: General Audience NOTES/WARNINGS:

I am supposed to be working on Pride and Prejudice, but that didn’t work out, this came to me when I read it. Then it was supposed to be a One-shot, now I have 5 chapters done, so who knows. I don’t even try to fight it some days, I really don’t.

Ljósálfar - Norse word for Light Elf. Dökkálfar - Norse word for Dark Elf.

Bran is Welsh for Raven, usually a boys name so for this, because Raven translates accordingly, I am using both. Breanna is not Irish for Raven, contrary to some online US children’s names sites.

Raven was worried and if she was honest, she felt she was right to be so. It was no secret that Alfheim’s need for Aesir assistance had led to a deal being brokered that had many great advantages to it, along with of course, some costs. One of which, though depending who you discussed it with, it being an advantage or a negative was heavily disputable, was her betrothal to a man she had never met face-to-face in her life past childhood, that man being the Allfather’s second son and renowned Trickster, Loki. Reports on the prince were sketching a very peculiar man with no set answer as to his personality and demeanour. To all, he was someone different and that to Raven was the concern. She wanted to know who Loki was as a man but had not been given much by way of answers.

One person to give her a somewhat rounded though a slightly biased account was Frigga, Allmother, queen of Asgard but also, Loki’s mother. She wondered if the queen, who spoke very highly of her son, was truly the best one to give an accurate description of him. When she asked the foreign queen if there was any manner to see for herself what the prince was like, what he genuinely like, they hatched a small, if slightly devious plan.

After some minor training as to the ways of staff of the Aesir palace, Raven was disguised as a maid so to learn of Loki’s true personality for herself to see if she could come to care for the man she was being forced to call her husband. She was reluctant to get married to someone she hardly knew and felt that this was the best manner in which to rectify that. She wanted to know how he would treat those that were supposedly beneath him as she felt that that was a way to accurately assess the man she had to wed.

The Aesir princes had not been to Alfheim since their youth so they had no idea what Raven looked like. Loki, as she had been, was merely informed of the agreement without having been present for it. It would allow her to remain unknown to the prince as she learnt a few things about him.

Raven looked over her uniform and eyed her neatly tied back hair. Elves never tied their hair fully, it always remained as loose as possible but being in the employ of the Aesir royal family, she needed her hair to be out of the way, so she tied it up neatly and examined her work. Satisfied that it was acceptable, she walked the route Frigga had used her seidr to show her to allow her to Loki’s rooms. His previous maid had been given some paid time off to go see her family, not aware that a plan had been hatched for her absence to be required.

She walked through the correct halls, bedsheets in hand, ready for what she expected to be her first real meeting with her betrothed, even if she was the only one of them privy to that particular fact.

She knocked as she was instructed to do before entering. The room was silent, signifying that if Loki was there, he was not to the front of his quarters. Raven looked around the room in an analytical manner. She studied the different paintings and tapestries on the walls, the varied books and sculptures that littered different areas of the room, it seemed somewhat scattered, yet entirely planned and structured.

Raven was so busy looking around, she hardly noticed the figure standing in the doorway between the two rooms studying her in a curious manner. There was no denying who it was in front of her, Raven knew what Loki looked like from her very few memories she had of them as children, not that they would have given a very accurate picture to go off for how he would look as an adult but also because of the images that Frigga had shown her of him. “Your Highness.” She curtsied at him, noting the slightest nod of acknowledgement of her actions. “Forgive me, I was just assessing the rooms as it is my first proper time in them. I wished to know where most items were placed so I could ensure to remember where they went at a later time should they require my putting them back for you.”

“I see.” Loki walked from the doorway to in front of her. “I was worried that I had an opportunistic thief on my hands.”

Raven’s eyes widened, not in fear but in insult. “Not at all, Your Highness, I would never insult my own honour in such a manner.”

If he was honest with himself, Loki was startled that she had not apologised or attempted to plead innocence and forgiveness for such an accusation being made at her but instead, she showed rambunctiousness and bite in return. “Good to know. Now that we have established that much at least, we can get onto the less formal issues, like you informing me as to who you are and why in Odin’s name you are in my rooms assessing the placing of my belongings?”

“I am your temporary personal maid, Your Highness.” Raven was uncertain what to think. Loki was not being as rude and aggressive as some led her to believe yet he was, by no means, overly cordial and nice either.

“I see. And dare I ask where is my other personal maid, Tatiana?”

“She required time off to see her family, Your Highness. I do not know the finer details but I seem to recall that her parents are aged and she wishes to spend some time with them.”

Loki nodded. “Yes, her father is indeed an older fellow, older than my father by a few centuries at least. Tatiana was saying he has not been the healthiest of late. Hopefully, it is nothing serious. How long is this arrangement supposedly in place or does she require an open-ended break from work?”

Raven was startled. Entirely contradictory to the behaviour he had displaced a fraction of a moment before, Loki implied that he knew something personal and cared somewhat for the wellbeing of his employee’s family. “I would be lying if I said I knew, Your Highness. All I am aware of is that she is currently unavailable and I am the one chosen to fill her role until her return, though I am very much informed that she will wish for her position back upon her return.”

“So, we have established that you are not a thief, a good thing too as to have to kill a Light Elf when I am supposed to become more involved with Alfheim in a more personal manner in the very near future would never look well. We have also established your position as my personal maid for the time being and indeed the current situation with your being here, that just leaves one other integral matter?” Raven cocked her head slightly in curiosity as to what that could possibly be. “Your name.”

“My name?”

“You have informed me of much but have at no stage given me a name for you.”

“Oh.” Raven had not thought of that. She knew that with the name of a creature that his father had two as his personal pets, if Loki had heard her name as his betrothed, he would not soon forget it and it could leave her in the very precarious position of being exposed to her betrothed. “Did I not? Forgive me, for I thought I had.”

“You have not.” Loki insisted. “And still seem reluctant to tell me as to what your name is.”

“Branna.” She blurted out before even thinking over what she said.

“Branna?”

“Yes, Your Highness. Branna.”

“That is not Ljósálfar, is it? What does it mean?” He asked curiously.

“No, Your Highness, and it means raven but you see, my mother adores ravens and indeed all corvids but the Princess of Alfheim you see, her name is…”

“Raven, I am aware of such, yes.” Loki’s expression did not give away any thoughts he had of her.

“Yes, and to copy her name directly would be seen as unimaginative and in many respects, insulting to her as our princess, so she went for the Dökkálfar version of it since her grandmother was Dökkálfar, so it made sense to her and it allowed her to do as she wished.”

“That was quite smart of her.”

“Yes.” Raven did not think it wise to push it too far. Loki had a name as a Liesmith from different sources. He could use his words to mould a situation to his liking and knew how to intelligently shape a lie to suit his needs. She knew that if she dug herself into a hole with lies, it would not bode well for her. Branna was the Dökkálfar for Raven. Her maternal grandmother was a Dark Elf and did indeed refer to her as Branna.

“Well, Branna, so long as you do the duties asked of you, I can see no issues between us until Tatiana’s return. Who knows, perhaps you could give me some perspective on the Light Elf way of life. It seems I will have to become somewhat adept at it.”

Raven swallowed slightly. There was no denying it that time. Loki was none-too-keen to be wed to a Light Elf. “Yes, Your Highness.” She nodded, not looking him in the face so he did not see the sad look in her eyes.

“I need to leave for a short time, just tidy everything for now,” Loki ordered before walking out of the room.

Raven worked on the room diligently. Growing up, she had never been allowed to do much for herself, which irked her greatly. There were some things she knew she would never be good at, cooking being one such thing. She managed to set fire to a bowl of porridge once. She loved to sew and embroider. It was seen as naff but she loved small intricate designs but such things were seen as maid’s duties. She also liked to tidy her belongings herself but any time she did so was admonished for such. She was the daughter of the king. The only daughter, amidst four sons. She had been something of an anomaly in the family, never truly feeling like she fit in. Her brothers had their places, the eldest Johann was to be king, the next, Richard to be his general, the third, Gerard to be the Lord of the lowlands, a rich agricultural part of the realm and the youngest, Kieran decided to become a healer. Then, amidst them all, a girl. Her parents did not know what to do with her. Very few Light Elf kings had daughters. They did not seem to be a common occurrence leaving Raven to be left with a path to be given in life which caused the situation she was now in, betrothed to Loki as part of a deal that would strengthen the bond between the two realms. She tidied diligently as she thought over everything she had learnt in her few minutes speaking with her intended. While she cleaned, she looked at different artefacts and trinkets as well as books and notes as she tidied. The beautifully elegant writing that matched the ink vials she saw on the table told her it was Loki’s. She loved handwriting, she analysed such things as she felt that it told a lot about a being. Loki’s was artistic, yet it was uniform, which made sense, her analysis of his rooms told her that was true also. Then there was the manner in which he wrote capital letters, unique, but she imagined that he was such an individual himself. She doubted many were as artistic. Such traits were liked in Light Elves, which should have given her hope, instead, with thinking of his dislike when referencing his soon-to-be marriage, it filled her with apprehension.

“I see.” Loki walked from the doorway to in front of her. “I was worried that I had an opportunistic thief on my hands.”

Raven’s eyes widened, not in fear but in insult. “Not at all, Your Highness, I would never insult my own honour in such a manner.”

“I see. And dare I ask where is my other personal maid, Tatiana?”

“She required time off to see her family, Your Highness. I do not know the finer details but I seem to recall that her parents are aged and she wishes to spend some time with them.”

“My name?”

“You have informed me of much but have at no stage given me a name for you.”

“You have not.” Loki insisted. “And still seem reluctant to tell me as to what your name is.”

“Branna.” She blurted out before even thinking over what she said.

“Branna?”

“Yes, Your Highness. Branna.”

“That is not Ljósálfar, is it? What does it mean?” He asked curiously.

“No, Your Highness, and it means raven but you see, my mother adores ravens and indeed all corvids but the Princess of Alfheim you see, her name is…”

“Raven, I am aware of such, yes.” Loki’s expression did not give away any thoughts he had of her.

“That was quite smart of her.”

“I need to leave for a short time, just tidy everything for now,” Loki ordered before walking out of the room.

Raven worked on the room diligently. Growing up, she had never been allowed to do much for herself, which irked her greatly. There were some things she knew she would never be good at, cooking being one such thing. She managed to set fire to a bowl of porridge once. She loved to sew and embroider. It was seen as naff but she loved small intricate designs but such things were seen as maid’s duties. She also liked to tidy her belongings herself but any time she did so was admonished for such. She was the daughter of the king. The only daughter, amidst four sons. She had been something of an anomaly in the family, never truly feeling like she fit in. Her brothers had their places, the eldest Johann was to be king, the next, Richard to be his general, the third, Gerard to be the Lord of the lowlands, a rich agricultural part of the realm and the youngest, Kieran decided to become a healer. Then, amidst them all, a girl. Her parents did not know what to do with her. Very few Light Elf kings had daughters. They did not seem to be a common occurrence leaving Raven to be left with a path to be given in life which caused the situation she was now in, betrothed to Loki as part of a deal that would strengthen the bond between the two realms. She tidied diligently as she thought over everything she had learnt in her few minutes speaking with her intended. While she cleaned, she looked at different artefacts and trinkets as well as books and notes as she tidied. The beautifully elegant writing that matched the ink vials she saw on the table told her it was Loki’s. She loved handwriting, she analysed such things as she felt that it told a lot about a being. Loki’s was artistic, yet it was uniform, which made sense, her analysis of his rooms told her that was true also. Then there was the manner in which he wrote capital letters, unique, but she imagined that he was such an individual himself. She doubted many were as artistic. Such traits were liked in Light Elves, which should have given her hope, instead, with thinking of his dislike when referening his soon-to-be marriage, it filled her with apprehension.

#Loki #Others #Submitted fic #submission #hiding in plain sight #chapter 1 #wolfpawn

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saved-for-me-own-stories · 3 years

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OC-Tober! Day 25: Spirit

Honestly, the most dangerous of the spirits I’ve come up with is probably the Alchemic villain. Not that he’s a spirit to start out with, but he’s evil enough even without that. Once he eventually does die, though? He gets to be even more twisted and horrifying, and I would not recommend going anywhere near that sucker.

The next most dangerous one, in and of himself, is probably Vincentio. Now, when he’s with the Band, he’s pretty chill, unless they’re specifically trying to scare someone (which they do from time to time! They just enjoy that!). And if somebody in charge says he needs to lay low, he’ll lay low all right. He won’t act up.

But if he gets a reason in his head, he will hate you and hate you long. Then, if he gets an opportunity, he will probably try to scar you for life, if not kill you outright. And if he gets that opportunity at a time when he’s lost his temper, when he’s in a fury? Oh, you better freaking run.

Eurus, now, he doesn’t have as short a temper (or height), has more of sense of royal decorum (being a god), so you might well think he’s not as dangerous. And in that way, you’d be right. He won’t snap easily.

But he’s also a serious snake-in-the-grass, and his only desire is to bring division and chaos to the mortal and the fairy kingdoms. He loves to lie, to manipulate people, to twist words, basically to get people to believe something he knows isn’t true. And if he successfully manages to bring that upon, say, a small group of people, or even just one alone, he will snatch them one by one, and trap them in his stormclouds. I don’t even know what he’ll do with them if he keeps them trapped long enough.

Of course, lies aren’t the only tool he has. He’s not above kidnapping queens and murdering mothers or children. Whatever works. (So yeah, stay away from him, for sure.)

Hmm, who else? I don’t think I’ll count Julius or Rachel’s character, since I’m not sure I’m including them, at least not yet.

The spirit from that one short story, “Project Hanging Tree”, she’s dangerous, and she can very much kill you, but she doesn’t like killing people, and doesn’t do it unless she either has to or is forced to. So I wouldn’t worry too much about her.

Amazu. Now, Amazu is certainly dangerous. As Edmund Pevensie once said of Bacchus, “there’s a chap who would do absolutely anything”. Now, Amazu’s not a god like Bacchus—in fact, I’m still not sure what he is—but he’s still like that, he’d do anything if he thought it’d be fun. However, he’s only dangerous like that when not under authority. If someone with authority is there, he won’t act up. (In fact, with that someone being basically his best friend now, he’s kind of grown to like it.)

So while you wouldn’t like to meet him without someone with that authority around, he’s generally okay. He’s actually a pretty fun guy.

Then we have the fairies. These are in several stories, but one of the main ones is “Aiolus of the Fairies”. There we have Oberon, Titania, and the rest of the fairies, especially Puck. But while they’re dangerous, they’re also noble, unlike Eurus the deceiver. Of course they’re not safe, but they’re good. (Two Lewis quotes in a row, huh?)

Puck is probably the real spirit of chaos among them, but he’s kept from going too crazy. He’s more of a prankster than anything else, almost a trickster god. He’s kept in line by Oberon, and later by Aiolus. And he doesn’t mind. He still gets to play his pranks on the Weaver.

In general, then.

With some of the spirits I’ve come up with, you just do not need to even come near them, for your own safety.

With some of them, they can certainly kill you, but probably won’t, because they’re noble and good.

And with others, they’re dangerous, but if you come around them when they’re with the right people, you’re fine.

@oc-growth-and-development

#oc-tober #day 25: spirit #alchemic #the prometheus curse #aiolus of the fairies #short stories #vincentio #amazu #salt and light

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wolfpawn · 4 years

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Hiding In Plain Sight, Chapter 1

Story Summary - Imagine coming from a line of nobility or royalty and being in an arranged marriage with Loki in an attempt to strengthen your kingdom / alliance with Asgard. You’re not entirely on board with the idea but figured that the best you could do was to get to know your fiancé. You form an agreement with Frigga for you to pose as Loki’s personal servant for a few months so you can get to know who Loki really is – beyond the veil of his responsibility to the Asgardian throne, behind all the masks he wears when facing the public, to really know who Loki is behind closed doors as you slowly fall for each other.How long will you keep up the ruse with the God of Lies?

Chapter Summary - Raven fears what sort of man she is to marry so she devises a plan to see if she can learn what Loki is like when he thinks no one is watching.

Previous Chapter - Not applicable for this chapter

Tags - @peppermint-j

Request if you wish to be tagged

NOTES :

I am supposed to be working on Pride and Prejudice, but that didn't work out, this came to me when I read it. Then it was supposed to be a One-shot, now I have 5 chapters done, so who knows. I don't even try to fight it some days, I really don't.

Ljósálfar - Norse word for Light Elf. Dökkálfar - Norse word for Dark Elf.

Bran is Welsh for Raven, usually a boys name so for this, because Raven translates accordingly, I am using both. Breanna is not Irish for Raven, contrary to some online US children's names sites.

“I see.” Loki walked from the doorway to in front of her. “I was worried that I had an opportunistic thief on my hands.”

Raven’s eyes widened, not in fear but in insult. “Not at all, Your Highness, I would never insult my own honour in such a manner.”

“I see. And dare I ask where is my other personal maid, Tatiana?”

“She required time off to see her family, Your Highness. I do not know the finer details but I seem to recall that her parents are aged and she wishes to spend some time with them.”

“My name?”

“You have informed me of much but have at no stage given me a name for you.”

“You have not.” Loki insisted. “And still seem reluctant to tell me as to what your name is.”

“Branna.” She blurted out before even thinking over what she said.

“Branna?”

“Yes, Your Highness. Branna.”

“That is not Ljósálfar, is it? What does it mean?” He asked curiously.

“No, Your Highness, and it means raven but you see, my mother adores ravens and indeed all corvids but the Princess of Alfheim you see, her name is…”

“Raven, I am aware of such, yes.” Loki’s expression did not give away any thoughts he had of her.

“That was quite smart of her.”

“I need to leave for a short time, just tidy everything for now,” Loki ordered before walking out of the room.

Raven worked on the room diligently. Growing up, she had never been allowed to do much for herself, which irked her greatly. There were some things she knew she would never be good at, cooking being one such thing. She managed to set fire to a bowl of porridge once. She loved to sew and embroider. It was seen as naff but she loved small intricate designs but such things were seen as maid’s duties. She also liked to tidy her belongings herself but any time she did so was admonished for such. She was the daughter of the king. The only daughter, amidst four sons. She had been something of an anomaly in the family, never truly feeling like she fit in. Her brothers had their places, the eldest Johann was to be king, the next, Richard to be his general, the third, Gerard to be the Lord of the lowlands, a rich agricultural part of the realm and the youngest, Kieran decided to become a healer. Then, amidst them all, a girl. Her parents did not know what to do with her. Very few Light Elf kings had daughters. They did not seem to be a common occurrence leaving Raven to be left with a path to be given in life which caused the situation she was now in, betrothed to Loki as part of a deal that would strengthen the bond between the two realms. She tidied diligently as she thought over everything she had learnt in her few minutes speaking with her intended. While she cleaned, she looked at different artefacts and trinkets as well as books and notes as she tidied. The beautifully elegant writing that matched the ink vials she saw on the table told her it was Loki’s. She loved handwriting, she analysed such things as she felt that it told a lot about a being. Loki’s was artistic, yet it was uniform, which made sense, her analysis of his rooms told her that was true also. Then there was the manner in which he wrote capital letters, unique, but she imagined that he was such an individual himself. She doubted many were as artistic. Such traits were liked in Light Elves, which should have given her hope, instead, with thinking of his dislike when referening his soon-to-be marriage, it filled her with apprehension.

#Chapter 1 #wolfpawn #Hiding in Plain Sight #Loki fic

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eatprayworm · 4 years

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without fox demons, no village is complete: an essay on tsomd’s li zilong and fox spirits

The big bad of The Sleuth of the Ming Dynasty live action series, Li Zilong, is in many ways a mystery. We never learn his real motivations for wanting to take down the emperor, and there’s so many odd details about him that don’t add up (how did he disappear in thin air from Wang Zhi?). I propose a theory that provides an explanation for this antagonist: he is a fox spirit. I use a combination of sources to come to this conclusion. Let’s read.

The Real Li Zilong

A good place to start is the history of the real life Li Zilong. According to “The Eunuchs of the Ming Dynasty” by Shih-shan Henry Tsai, the Chenghua emperor established the Western Depot in 1477, with Wang Zhi at the helm. What made the emperor create the Western Depot? Well! The original mission of the Depot was to investigate the case of Li Zilong, a “transvestite” (the book’s words, not mine) who allegedly practiced witchcraft and had magical abilities. Li Zilong worked with a court eunuch to sneak into the imperial harem and mingle with superstitious women. And so, the Chenghua emperor created the Western Depot and had Wang Zhi search for any other witches or strange people. Wang Zhi went on to become a terror in the lives of many common folk.

So, the real Li Zilong was tied to mystical practices.

The Book Li Zilong

What about Li Zilong in the novel? Well! I haven’t read the novel so I can’t fully speak to it, but I’ve read some passages that describe Li Zilong. In chapter 3, Tang Fan discusses the Demon Fox Case, about a golden fox demon who was sent in to kill the emperor. This demon fox was said to be killed by the Ming Dynasty’s founding emperor. There was also a Taoist named Li Zilong who appeared around the same time, and for whatever reason, the court associated Li Zilong with the fox, and he was executed. After Li Zilong was executed, the emperor established the Western Depot so he’d have a more reliable source of information.

Since I haven’t read the novel, I can’t say if Li Zilong is really dead or if there’s more information on this case. I’d love to hear if there is! Otherwise, what we can infer here is that Li Zilong was, most likely, a fox demon spirit out to kill the emperor.

The book is not the show, though, so this could be dismissed. However, I propose that the show version of Li Zilong is indeed a fox spirit. To better explain why I believe this, we need to understand a few things about Chinese fox spirits.

What are fox spirits?

There is a very long history of fox spirits in Chinese lore. I’ve done a few hours of research, but I am by no means an expert, so take all of this with a grain of salt. Likewise, fox spirits are called many terms (huxian, humei, huli jing, to name just a few) and they have various roles within ancient lore. For the purposes of this essay, I’ll focus on some general fox spirit information.

There are some generally accepted lore about fox spirits. According to old records, fox spirits have long lives and can take different forms depending on their age. When they reach 500 years, they can take the form of a beautiful woman, a handsome man, or an old wise scholar. When they reach 1,000 years, they may enter the heavens and become a celestial fox.

In some stories, foxes are seen as good omens who bring wealth and fortune to humans. In other stories, foxes take human form and seduce men or women. In others still, foxes are seen as signs of misfortune, sorcery, and rebellion.

Powers

Fox spirits are noted to have particular traits and powers, including:

strike their tail on the ground to cause fire

the ability to possess humans

ability to see into the future

can see events up to 1,000 li away

invisibility

pass through walls

a cunning and trickster disposition

Motives

The motives of foxes vary. Some have no moral alignment. Others seek to play mischief and tricks on humans; others steal the spirits of men so they may increase their own.

There are also tales of fox spirits taking revenge, either for themself or a deceased individual. To quote one source, “Typically in folklore the Chinese fox had two basic motives, to show its powerful shape-shifting ability by assuming the form of a person or demon to achieve the second motive: that of revenge for some crime it perceived, real or imagined.”

Interestingly, this is not the only source to discuss fox spirits and revenge. One tale speaks to a fox who cursed three generations because it was harmed by the family. Another source states, “...the Chinese revenge-fox stories: the killed fox is able to punish his murderer, being almost as clever as he is.”

Li Zilong? A Fox?

Now, why do I think the show!Li Zilong could be one of these crafty fox spirits? It’s a combination of canon clues and some inferences on my part. Let’s begin!

Age & Revenge

Li Zilong tells Princess Gu’an that he is a descendant of the Li family, who ruled during the Tang dynasty. The Tang Dynasty. What’s interesting to note is that the Tang Dynasty ended in the beginning of the 900’s - over 550 years before the present day in the show. Why would a descendant from this very old royal family have it out for the emperor? And what does this have to do with foxes?

The Tang Dynasty was the height of fox and fox spirit worship. The Tang Scholar Zhang Zuo noted: “From the beginning of the Tang Dynasty, many of the commoners worshipped fox deities. They offer sacrifices to them in their bedchambers, and food and drink offered are the same as those consumed by humans. At the time there was proverb saying ‘without fox demons, no village is complete.’”

There are other mentions of fox demons and their roles as gods. In one instance, dozens of “fox demons” appeared at a temple honor Li Jing, a Tang Dynasty general who was revered as a god. In another instance, a temple was erected for the “fox kings” in the land. In the year 1110, the Grand Councilor ordered that 1,000 fox-king shrines should be destroyed. (Li Jing? Some demon foxes being called huli jing? interesting coincidences.)

So. We have Li Zilong, who was a descendant of the royal family that ruled during the height of fox worship. What’s more, Li Zilong wears the same type of headpiece that the Chenghua emperor wears.

Was Li Zilong truly the descendant of royalty? Or, is he perhaps royalty from the era itself, a remnant of the fox kings of old? After all, why would a descendant of the Tang Dynasty care about an emperor who lived hundreds of years later, unless he’s been around long enough to have a reason to care? Could he, like his book counterpart, have been slighted by the Ming Dynasty’s founding emperor?

When he finally confronts the emperor, he stares and says he’s waited a long time for this day. Maybe he’s waited over a hundred years.

Photos for reference:

Powers & Omens

Li Zilong exhibits traditional powers of fox spirits.

Invisibility. When Wang Zhi and he are walking out of the brothel, he tells Wang Zhi to look away. Wang Zhi looks away for a few seconds, turns back, and Li Zilong is gone. There’s no hint that he leaped away; he seemed to disappear out of thin air. Or, perhaps, he simply turned invisible. He pulls a similar trick when Tang Fan sees him across the street, but he disappears after a carriage goes by. Naturally, he probably hopped on the carriage. But….what if he didn’t. Additionally, how did Li Zilong get into the brothel when he was holding the meeting with the Oirats? Why was he so unafraid to be in public when he was literally public enemy number one? Only someone who could disappear quickly could have such confidence.

Precognition/knowledge. Li Zilong knew everything about everyone, even when it didn’t make sense for him to know these things. How did he know so much about the chicken cup? How could he predict the moves of the heroes again and again and again? How did he know the history of individuals so well? Sure, he had men that kept him informed. He had Qing Ge. But his ability to not only know so many past and current events, and keep a thumb on so many individuals and schemes (like the Yunhe silver situation) for years is very, very impressive. Almost inhumanly impressive.

Fire. Now, Li Zilong himself does not have the power of fire, but he sure is attracted to it. Ding Rong describes the explosions of the bolang as a sea of fire - and wouldn’t that appeal to a fox who can strike fire with his tail? Imagine being able to amplify this natural ability. Li Zilong seemed to grow particularly protective and fond of the bolangs; his eyes would light up, he asked for far more than he ever needed. A fox with a penchant for fire indeed.

Wealth & Rebellion. Li Zilong fits the archetype of the fox being both a benefactor and an ill omen. He says time and time again that he’s a businessman, and indeed he is: he fills the pockets of men (and himself) with gold, so long as they follow him. Sounds almost like worship? And wouldn’t an old fox king just love that? Additionally, Li Zilong is considered a rascal, an outsider, a rebel; Shang Ming, Wan An, and Wan Tong will collude with him, but they still deem him an “other”, an outside force. Fox spirits were typically seen as the other, as a sign of chaos.

Miscellaneous

Here’s some additional details I picked up while rewatching that lend some credence to my fox theory.

Fox Rings. On one of his hands, Li Zilong wears orange and black rings, side by side. These colors are typically associated with foxes.

2. Actual fox reference. In episode 47, Li Zilong warns Qing Ge that you cannot run from the eyes of the “three old foxes.” These mean the corrupt officials, of course. But what’s even more curious is what Dong’er tells the emperor: don’t run from Li Zilong, because he will always find you. So who is really the old fox here?

3. Qing Ge. One of the most common tales of fox spirits is them taking on the form of beautiful women to enchant men. Li Zilong adopting a skilled courtesan who canonically has men falling at her feet? Could this old fox king see a potential fox spirit in this adoptive daughter?

4. Tang Fan. In the Encyclopedia of Demons in World Religions and Cultures, the author states that “huli jing are especially fond of attacking virtuous scholars, as reasonable and virtuous people enrage them.” Li Zilong focused on Tang Fan as his real enemy. Not Sui Zhou. Not Wang Zhi. And why, when all three would eventually lead to his downfall? Because I think Tang Fan was the exact kind of scholar who Li Zilong couldn’t outsmart and beat, and he hated it.

5. Eyes. When Li Zilong falls down and dies, his eyes briefly change color. They flash from grey to silver; in the next scene, they’re brown again. What happened here? What spirit has left him? Could it be the death of a very old fox?

Conclusion

Fox or human? Descendant or royalty? Who knows what a Li Zilong is, but I think we can certainly assume he isn’t human - and may be the trickster from old. Ultimately, this is just my headcanon. At the end of the day, he may just be an old man who wanted to cause havoc for the hell of it. But I think this is a fun theory to entertain, and it gives him far more depth and intrigue than canon gave him otherwise.

Again, I am no expert in Chinese lore or Chinese fox spirits. Any mistakes are mine, and I’m certainly open to corrections!

#the sleuth of ming dynasty #tsomd #li zilong #huli jing li zilong #if anyone reads this kudos to you LOL #i figured if i was gonna write more of this au i should explain some of my thought processes #hastily written and not well edited bc whatever #lmao #mine

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sserpente · 3 years

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A/N: Request from @wrenstrange! Put up the decorations, it’s finally time again! Enjoy, everyone!

Words: 1957 Warnings: pure fluff, blood sample/needle/syringe, soft!Loki, fatique, fainting

You dropped like a piece of wood right about when you were making yourself a cup of tea in the kitchen. Knees ceasing to support you any longer, vision darkening, stars dancing around you making you dizzy. Your eyes rolled to the back of your head and before you knew it, your body finally won and shut down.

Although if you could have chosen, you would not have fallen straight into Loki’s arms whose reflexes caught you, preventing you from hitting the hard floor beneath you. He cradled you with his brows furrowed, his blue gaze almost helpless as he looked at Thor and Stark for support.

Then, everything went black.

“Welcome back.” You blinked, the artificial lights above your head blinding you. A hand held you down when you attempted to sit up drowsily. Bruce was leaning against a metal table in Tony’s lab, hands crossed before his chest and with a concerned expression on his face. “You blacked out,” he explained, “out of the blue.”

“How are you feeling?” Tony added.

You only realised then that it was Loki who had held you down. He was sitting on a chair right next to the makeshift bed they had carried into Tony’s lab and he was observing you with Argus eyes. Your heart sped up when you noticed. You usually tended to avoid the God of Mischief at all cost. There was a part of you that was afraid of him after watching him making an entire crowd kneel in Stuttgart, the other was hands down swooning over him. It had all started when he had rescued a cat from a tree, honouring a cliché he had not even been aware of. But someone who helped defenceless little kittens had to have a soft heart deep down, no?

Thor had brought him to Earth along with him after Asgard had been destroyed. He could not exactly be considered an Avenger but he had long surpassed the villain image… at least, to some extent. Well, you were no Avenger either. You used to be a SHIELD intern and then somehow ended up with the superheroes themselves. Apart from some basic fighting skills and the ability to use a gun, you had been trained to spend most of your time in front of a computer, often working twelve hours or even more a day. What did they say? Evil never sleeps.

“Any idea what might have caused this?” Bruce continued.

You shook your head. “No. But I’ve been having migraines and a persistent fatigue that just won’t go away.”

“I see… anything else?”

“Um…”

“You can talk to us, (Y/N).”

“Well, I… I’ve been dizzy a lot lately but that sometimes happens during my special week of the month so I didn��t think anything of it.” You took a deep breath but hesitated.

“And?”

“I’ve been sweating way more when working out. Like, a lot more. Instead of making progress… I feel like I’m getting weaker every day. It’s frustrating.”

“Uh-huh. I’m taking a blood sample. FRIDAY will run a couple of tests on you to figure out what’s wrong.”

“What? No! Nothing’s wrong! We don’t need a b-blood sample.”

“No one faints for no reason, (Y/N), especially not on Loki.” Loki rolled his eyes but did not leave your side, even when Bruce started fiddling around with some gear and apparently, a first-aid kit and then approached you with a syringe and a small clear vial.

“I’ve done this a million times before, I’ll be gentle.”

“No! No, no blood test, Bruce, please!” Almost hysterically, you moved back on the bed, your heart in your mouth.

“(Y/N),” Loki suddenly said calmly. You shivered when he spoke your name, his head tilted slightly. “Are you afraid of needles?”

“N-n-no…” You lied. Loki raised an eyebrow.

“Look at me.” He said. Hesitating only a little, you did as you were told. It wasn’t like his tone allowed any contradiction anyway. In fact, it reminded you a lot of his strict and bossy tone when he had caused chaos in Germany. “It has to be done. Hold my hand and do not take your eyes off of me.”

“Who are you and what you have done to Reindeer Games?” Tony tossed in, throwing the Trickster a suspicious glance. Loki rolled his eyes once more. As if he had any obligation to explain himself to Stark of all people.

In the meantime, you were panicking even more. Loki was being nice and considerate with you and Bruce was about to pierce your skin with a needle. Oh, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck… your breathing sped up.

“Look. At. Me.” Loki repeated. You obeyed this time, allowing him to take your hand and press it gently. Much to your surprise, it immediately calmed you down a little. You gaped at him unbelievingly. You didn’t even feel the needle going into your skin and drawing blood. Wait… was he casting a spell on you?

“There. All done.” You could not bring yourself to look where Bruce brought your blood sample but when both Tony and he stepped away and turned their backs on you, you swallowed.

“T-thank you…” You had to ask—not because you did not think he was not capable of offering his help without seeking a personal advantage and not because you didn’t think he was too evil to even think about being selfless… but because you were genuinely curious about his motivation. Loki did nothing without a reason, he was always one step ahead. “You put a spell on me, didn’t you?”

He nodded. “Why… why did you do that for me?”

“We are all afraid of something.” It was the only response he gave you. For a few moments, you merely sat there quietly, neither of you uttering a single word. Only when Bruce and Tony returned did you realise that Loki was still holding your hand.

“Okay… I’ve got the results from your blood test and FRIDAY couldn’t find anything suspicious.” Tony announced, scrolling on his tablet. Bruce adjusted his glasses to take a peek.

“You said you’ve been feeling tired? You sweat a lot, you get dizzy, and I’m presuming you barely have an appetite?”

“I don’t have time to eat a lot to be honest…” You confirmed.

“Any concentration problems?”

Pressing your lips together to a thin line, you thought about it for a moment. Now that he mentioned it… it had gotten obnoxiously hard to focus on your work lately. Eventually, you nodded.

“Sounds like severe exhaustion to me.” Bruce said. “Do you have issues with low blood pressure or diabetes or any other medical condition? No, FRIDAY would have found something like that. You know what I think? You overworked yourself.”

“Like… a burnout?” You probed.

“Most definitely.”

You grunted. Oh, that was just great. There you were, attempting to squeeze in regular workouts in this awesome training hall the Avengers called the HARM room after work to get stronger and hence, eventually gather up the courage to speak to Loki and now you looked exactly like what you did not want him to see you as—a weak and meagre human.

“The best medicine would be for you to quit work for a while and stop physical exercise altogether.”

“Banner is right,” Tony added. “Take a few weeks off and rest, sleep in, eat more and healthy… the whole program. I officially give you a holiday.”

“You’re not my boss, Tony, you can’t give me a holiday.” Your smile was weak. “But I don’t have time for this anyway! I can’t believe this is happening so soon before Christmas!” You whined. “I can’t stay in bed, I’ve got so much to do! I have to buy presents and decorate and bake biscuits and make gingerbread… Besides, I’m gonna fall behind on all the data.”

He shrugged. “I’ll take care of that. Let me talk to Fury. You let us know if you need anything. Can you take her to her room, Reindeer Games? And please, no funny business.” Beside you, Loki was just frowning, utterly ignoring the billionaire’s request.

“Why were you pushing yourself so hard?” He finally spoke when the two Avengers had left—whether it was genuine confusion or mere curiosity in his voice, you were not sure. “Why were you training for battle in the first place? I have never seen you out on a mission.”

You sighed. Time to let the cat out of the bag, it wasn’t like you were still going to make a good impression on him anymore now.

“I wanted to impress you, I guess…”

“Impress me?” Loki repeated incredulously.

“Yeah… catch your attention… in a way. I mean, part of me is still terrified of you, of course but… you have a good heart, Loki. I knew when I saw you rescuing that cat from the tree.”

The God of Mischief rolled his eyes. “I knew this was going to damage my reputation.” He responded with a sly smirk, making you grin. “It was an innocent kitten, what was I supposed to do?”

“See?”

Your heart skipped a beat when his blue eyes locked with yours. He appeared… uncertain; not used to dealing with affection. Loki swallowed.

“Can you walk?”

“I’m not sure…”

The God of Mischief sighed, his lips pressed together to a thin line. Without any hesitation, he snuck one of his arms under your knees and wrapped the other around your waist. He lifted you off the makeshift bed as if you weighed nothing—and to him, you probably didn’t.

Loki carried you to your room in utter silence and eventually lay you down in your bed. Your heart jumped when he sat down on the edge of the bed himself, with a peculiar interest in his hands so he would not have to look you in the eye.

“There is no need to impress me.” He suddenly said. Your head shot up. “I did not think anyone would even… never mind.”

Oh. It almost felt like you were finally getting to know each other, for real this time.

“Do you want to stay for a while? I was going to watch some Christmas movies if I’m not allowed to get out of bed.” You sighed. “I can’t even decorate. You have no idea how many decorations I have to put up. None of the others care to make it a little more festive here, especially not Fury.”

“Yes, I have seen the boxes.” Loki replied. “It’s a little… corny, wouldn’t you say?”

“Honestly, when living among superheroes who risk their lives every single day, you could use a little corny.”

“I see.” Loki simply waved his hand and before you knew it, your entire room was decorated. Green and red tinsel shimmered on your window sill, holiday lights were blinking above your door and fake—but incredibly real-looking—snowflakes hung from the ceiling. Many of your favourite decoration items were now sitting on your nightstand and your desk, including your tiny little Christmas tree. The rest of the decorations, so it seemed, Loki must have spread all over the Tower.

“Oh my Goodness… Loki, this is amazing!” The God of Mischief winked and when you looked down on yourself, you noticed you too were wearing a green and gold Christmas sweater. Heavens, you could kiss him. “Thank you so much! What did you… is the entire Tower…”

“Yes.” He confirmed. He didn’t have to. Tony did only a fraction of a second later.

“Thor! Can you tell me why my Ironman helmet just grew metal antlers? I swear to God, if Reindeer Games has something to do with this…” It was then you exploded with laughter despite your exhaustion.

A/N: If you enjoyed this story, I would appreciate it so much if you considered supporting me on Kofi! It’s either for caffeine or red wine, I’ll take both. ko-fi.com/sserpente ♥

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true-intha-blu · 4 years

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In Regards to Kingdom Hearts UX: Dark Road; Baldr, Loki, Luxu, and Luxord

Hi there. This is True-InTha-Blue coming to you with some interesting lore I was discussing with some very wonderful people on the Destined Oath Discord server. Once again I thank them for helping me out with this analysis and mythos research, as well as asking questions that really got my brain thinking about what all of this could be. This, of course, is in relation to the Kingdom Hearts Union Cross Dark Road game that was released 6/22/20. Specifically for Chapter 1.

This does contain slight spoilers so for those who want to go in completely blind. I recommend playing through KHuX:DR first, then coming back to my theory. This will go over a lot of Norse Mythology, how it relates to this new game, what roles the characters play, and what it could mean in the future. Warning, I’m not one for screenshots so prepare for a large amount of text.

Theory time:

In KHuX:DR we’re introduced to the new character, Baldr, named after a prominent god in Norse Mythology. As the Son of Odin, Baldr’s murder is what eventually leads the world into Ragnarok, the Norse armageddon myth.

Let’s investigate the Mythos of Baldr.

Baldr is the Norse god of peace, justice, light, forgiveness, and love. He and his mother, Frigg, had prophetic dreams of his death. As such, Frigg made every object and being in existence vow to never bring harm to Baldr. Every object and being except one, mistletoe. This was because no one saw mistletoe as a threat and was too young to make such an agreement.

This made Baldr pretty much indestructible. As per usual with the Norse gods, they made sport of this by throwing dangerous stuff at the man since they knew he couldn’t die. That was until Loki decided to fashion an arrow or spear (Different tellings of the myth have different weapons) out of mistletoe. He handed this weapon over to Baldr’s blind twin brother, Hodr. Thinking that it would bounce off his brother like usual, Hodr ended up killing his brother.

Heartbroken, Frigg called upon Hermod, another one of her sons and messenger of the gods, to go to Hel and retrieve Baldr.

In Hel, the goddess Hel (it is both a location and a person. Also not to be confused as Hell), said that Baldr could be revived if everyone (objects included, alive and dead) cried for him.

In Norse mythology, “Hel” is both a place and a goddess. Hel (the place) is the norse underworld. Hel (the goddess) is the one who reigns over the Underworld. When Hermod reached Hel and asked how Baldr could be revived, he was told that if every being in existence cried for his brother, then Baldr would return.

Everyone did, except one.

Loki, disguised as the giantess Þökk (pronounced Tokk), did not cry. As such, Baldr is set to stay in Hel until Ragnarok.

Now let’s look at Loki’s role in Norse Mythology.

He is often (or always) depicted as a shapeshifting trickster. In fact much of the trickster archetype in modern stories stems from Loki’s place in mythology. For a large part of the Mythos, Loki either aids the Aesir (the Norse Gods) or is malicious towards them. No matter what Loki eventually comes to be the enemy of the Norse gods at the end of Ragnarök.

So where am I going with this?

There are two major groups of people: Those who see Odin and the Master of Masters as being the same person, and those who see Odin and Luxu as the same people. But I think that people are focusing on the wrong deity. Instead, I think that shifting the focus onto Loki is the key. As a shapeshifter, Loki has gone by many names. Luxu parallels this, as he’s most likely taken on countless different names besides “Braig” or “Xigbar”.

In fact, let’s focus on the meaning behind Luxu’s name.

Like all of the Foretellers, Luxu’s name parallels one of the Seven Deadly Sins, that of Lust (Luxuria). Loki, in a myth where he insults all of the Aesir, is called a “Pervert God”. Loki has also been accused of doing perverse things. Luxu may not have a sexual lust, but rather a lust for power. There is also the fact that Luxu is associated with the goat, a Catholic symbol of lust.

Also to note in this conversation of Loki insulting the gods. This is the one that leads Loki to being bound to a rock with a snake dripping venom over his eyes until he is released from Ragnarök. The context is that Loki killed a servant, was kicked out of a party, and then came back to ruin the party but the Skaldic god Bragi says that Loki shouldn’t be allowed back in. Loki however called on blood bonds with Odin (because they are half-brothers) to be invited.

There is one other thing of note in the myth about Loki insulting the Aesir. After a certain point, he got kicked out, only to return to ruin the party even more. The god Bragi said that he shouldn’t be allowed in, but Loki calls his blood bond with his half-brother Odin, saying he has every right to be invited. As things continue, this leads to Loki’s capture and his near eternal punishment of being bound with poison dripping on his face. Then: “Loki declaims a toast to the gods, with a specific exception for Bragi. Bragi responds that he will give a horse, sword, and ring from his possessions so that he does not repay the gods "with hatred." Loki responds that Bragi will always be short of all of these things, accusing him of being "wary of war" and "shy of shooting." Bragi responds that, were they outside of Ægir's hall, Bragi would be holding Loki's head as a reward for his lies. Loki replies that Bragi is brave when seated, calling him a "bench-ornament," and that Bragi would run away when troubled by an angry, spirited man.”

And this is also remarkably interesting because I have seen the Bragi = Braig/Luxu theory, but this kind of contradicts it. It makes me think that Bragi and Odin are red herrings in all of this. Remember, we do not know what happened to the Master of Masters, except that he ‘faded from existence’ one day. Nor do we know why or how MoM showed himself to Young Xehanort in the Keyblade Graveyard. Only Luxu has been confirmed to have the ability to change bodies

Keep in mind, the No Name Keyblade was passed down from Luxu to his student. When the time came, that student passed on the keyblade as well, the cycle continuing into the present. This was all so MoM could see into the future and author the Book of Prophecies.

Now I wish to bring up another name of Loki, that of Lóðurr. It can be translated into Lodur.

Please understand that the context between these two names is still being debated by scholars, but I think this is important to bring up nonetheless.

Lodur is one of the gods that helped create the first two humans, the others being Odin and Hoenir. Let’s assume this is just another name for Loki. Remember how earlier I said that Loki is the main archetype for both the good and bad trickster in stories? Let’s go to something you may have noticed.

Lodur. Let’s add an ‘X’, reminiscent to the old Org XIII style. It becomes Luxord.

Now remember that scene in the beginning of Re:mind DLC? With Xigbar/Luxu and Luxord asking questions about each other’s identity?

My take is that Luxord is the other role of Loki, the more beneficially trickster. Now this may be more of a stretch if not for the fact that we kinda believe/see Luxord’s somebody in Yozora’s time. As of now, it is a major point of both curiosity and contention within the fandom.

One theory is that Yozora’s world is connected to the breaking of the One World before the end of the Keyblade World. This is inferred because Yozora seems to know what a keyblade is and knows how to fight the wielder of one.

Since Lodur (the Norse god) has a hand in the creation of the world in Norse mythology, which (going by the KHuX:DR lore about the worlds’ development) may have been one of the first worlds to develop from the Keyblade War thus tying Luxord to the legacy of the keyblade war stated by Xemnas.

To add a bit on the Luxu/Xigbar and Luxord to Loki parallels:

- Both fights with them have misdirection, trickery with locations or indirect fighting styles when confronted by Sora. This fits a trickster archetype

- Also Braig/Xigbar uses arrowguns. In myth, Baldr was killed by an arrow (That may be a bit of a stretch though so don’t take it too seriously.)

In the end, we have a lot to think about here.

I am less inclined to look at Master Odin from KHux:DR and would rather look out for someone we have not seen yet, a Loki or a Þökk. And keep an eye on Baldr whenever he shows up.

There are many other connections to tie ‘Bad’ Loki to Luxu. Loki heralding Ragnarok could parallel the fall of Scala Ad Caelum. Loki being a Johtun but being able to hang around the Norse gods could be a parallel to how Luxu may be among the students but actually being a foreteller.

If any reader has any details they want to share to clear up some details about the mythos, want to correct an inaccuracy, or wish to elaborate on the topics more, please share them. I am always up for fun, healthy, and well-reasoned discussions.

My next theory will be about the development of the worlds and the foretellers and how they came back.

Stay tuned, Blue

[Edited by @SourCherryBomb]

#kingdom hearts #kingdom hearts union cross #kingdom hearts dark road #norse mythology #luxu #baldr #luxord #lore #theory #lorekeepper

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