#crows of asgard | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

meowmeow-motherfucker · 2 months

Text

Covenant- Chapter 8

Summary: With the five year anniversary of the attack on New York approaching, Odin and Fury come to the agreement that an arranged marriage between Asgard and Earth would show good faith toward all future interactions. When Odin refuses Jane’s candidacy, Agent Coulson is tasked with finding a suitable wife for the prince of Asgard.

Pairing: Loki x OFC

Chapter warnings: mutual pining, jealousy, flirting, Loki being a little shit, brief mentions of flashbacks and torture, cringy Thor shenanigans, light smut not between our lovers

Taglist: @lokisgoodgirl @gigglingtiggerv2 @icytrickster17 @mysteriouslyfriedjellyfish @lokislilkitten @justjoanne242 @amlocked @ddmariegirl @mags-04-blog @sharris8 @meepycheep @iamlokisgloriouspurpose @the-fantasy-loving-angel @jaidenhawke @smolvenger

Please let me know if you'd like to be added to the taglist! I'm SO sorry this chapter took me so long, it's been a real pain in the keester. Hopefully it makes up for the long wait! Not much longer until the wedding!!

One day until the wedding

“Good morning, Your Majesty!” Ragna crowed as she ripped open the curtains, assaulting Claire’s eyes with obnoxiously bright sunlight. “Today the wedding games will take place!”

“You are far too happy for what time it is.” Claire groused, bundling a pillow over her head. Ragna laughed and ripped the blankets from the bed, clapping her hands excitedly.

“Up, up, up! The games are always exciting, and today promises to be extra special!” Ragna said excitedly.

“Why is that exactly?”

“Your Majesty,” Ragna gasped, sitting on the edge of the bed and leaning in eagerly, as though sharing a secret. “This is a momentous occasion! You are the first princess Asgard has had since the Allmother came to marry the Allfather over 2,000 years ago! That would be many, many generations of your people, would it not?”

“Uh, yeah,” Claire said. “Yeah, it definitely would,” she chuckled. “Okay, now I see why everybody is so jazzed about it.”

“Jazzed?”

“It’s another way of saying someone is excited.”

“Oh!” Ragna smiled as she got to her feet. “Then I am jazzed to help you get ready!”

“Okay, okay, I’m up!” Claire laughed as she climbed out of bed. Ragna was already gathering clothes excitedly, practically coaching Claire and her other ladies through each task like a cheerleader.

Her ladies prepped her until she practically glowed, and then it was time for Claire to head downstairs to start the festivities with Loki.

~~~~

An air of excitement filled the palace as Claire and Loki welcomed their guests during breakfast. Everyone was eager for the games to begin- including the guests. Several of them had joined Thor and the warriors three in pre-gaming which, unbeknownst to them, would render them unable to participate. Claire and Loki shared a laugh as they watched the would-be competitor’s fall to the powerful mead one after another.

After a leisurely breakfast, the guests and competitors made their way out of the palace. They walked into the heart of the city, where stands were erected around empty fields. Equipment had already been set up for the archery competition and various other events. Claire gazed out at the field, trying to picture what everything was for- she’d been told there would be feats of strength and skill, but being unfamiliar with the games themselves, she wasn’t sure what each event needed.

Claire and Loki went their separate ways once they reached the field to prepare, Claire making her way toward the makeshift archery range, while Loki went with Thor and the warriors three to prepare for the games they would compete in.

Their guests filled the stands surrounding the field, all of them eager for the games to begin. Eager chatter filled Claire’s ears as she gazed around the field.

Tall beams had been erected at the far end of the field, with a smaller cross beam running between them at the top. Another area had been set up a few feet away from the beams, looking to Claire like a set up for shot put- markers had been set equidistant from each other to measure distance.

The area closest to Claire was set up for archery. Quivers had been placed in a neat line several paces from the row of targets, and a rack of bows had been brought over the training yard at the palace. Claire glanced back at the other areas on the field to see Loki helping Thor and several others carry...large boulders?

“Shall we prepare?” Sif appeared from nowhere, pulling Claire’s attention away from the way Loki’s tunic had already begun to cling to him. “You will have plenty of time to gawk at your intended once your events are over.”

“Haha, very funny,” Claire replied. “I suppose I could use more practice with the javelin.”

~~~~

“Do you think you will learn to shoot before the end of the century?” Claire startled when Loki appeared out of thin air. She released her grip on the string, her shot going wide as she turned to glare at him. The games were due to start any moment, and she was trying to get some last minute practice in.

“Unless you’re here to help, go away,” she said without ire. “I thought you couldn’t be alone with me anyway.”

“We’re hardly alone,” Loki mused as Claire notched her arrow again. “Half the palace and our guests are here.” He wasn’t wrong- several members of the staff and their assembled guests who’d signed up for the games were all milling about the field.

“Semantics.” Claire scoffed, releasing her hold on the string and letting the arrow fly. The arrow zipped through the air and struck the target- just not on the bullseye. Loki looked on, one judgmental brow raised at her poor performance.

“Who taught you to shoot?”

“I’m getting better,” Claire argued. “I’m not used to this kind of weapon.”

“Are you sure?” Loki asked leadingly, his lips curling inward as she missed again and he tried not to laugh.

“Yes,” Claire said stubbornly. “Ugh, no.” She readjusted her stance, even though she felt like it wouldn’t make a difference.

“May I?” Loki asked as he stepped up behind her. His lithe frame wrapped around hers, his large hand settling over hers gently on the bow. “Relax this hand,” he coached softly as his other hand found the crook of her arm. “Lower your elbow.” he gave the smallest amount of pressure as he corrected her stance.

Claire was in hell. Or maybe purgatory? Wherever she was, she was suffering. Loki’s hands on her skin was giving her all the good feelings and it was hard to focus on anything else. She could feel his chest pressed against her back, the heat coming off of him delightfully distracting. His breath teased the hair on her neck, spurring shivers of promise as he adjusted her grip on the bow. Those hands should be bronzed.

Claire couldn’t believe she was having a Princess Diaries moment.

“Breathe in,” Loki practically purred in her ear. Claire inhaled, feeling her back mold against Loki’s chest. She could faintly feel the steady beat of his heart. “Breathe out,” Claire released her tense shoulders as she exhaled. “Good. Now release,” Claire’s fingers released the string, eyes widening as the arrow FINALLY hit the bullseye. “Did that feel better?”

“What?” Claire asked dumbly, her mind focused on the feel of his skin on hers.

“It seems you can learn,” Loki said smugly. “Do it again.” he nodded to the full quiver by her feet with his chin, taking a step back to allow her space.

“Okay,” Claire’s fingers didn’t want to cooperate as she reached for another arrow, chasing it awkwardly around the quiver as Loki looked on. She finally grabbed it and strung it on the bow, taking her stance as she aimed at the target. She took a mental checklist of Loki’s instruction, correcting things as she went. Releasing her breath, Claire let the arrow go.

It sank into the wooden leg of the target with a hollow thunk.

“Somehow you have gotten worse,” Loki teased, a pleasant laugh escaping his dumb mouth. Claire scowled, tamping down her stupid butterflies. “Perhaps I should pretend to be you and participate in your stead.”

“Well if you wouldn’t distract me-”

“I distract you, do I?” Loki asked leadingly. “Why is that?”

“I’m not answering that,” Claire said stubbornly, crossing her arms over her chest and dropping the bow clumsily. “Shut up.” she added when Loki laughed at her.

“Very well, little wife, I shall leave you to practice without distraction,” Loki cackled, stooping to retrieve the bow from the ground for her. “Remember what I said.”

Moments later, Claire was still practicing when she felt another presence behind her.

“May I assist you with your form, Lady Claire?” a heavy hand touched her waist a fraction later, and Claire wrenched the offending hand around the newcomer’s back, bending his arm at a very uncomfortable angle. “Ah-ah!”

“I do not need your help,” Claire spat. “Touch me again and I will break your hand.Do you understand, Fandral?”

“Yes-I understand-ah!” the ‘warrior’ winced as she released him, pushing him away from her.

~~~~

Claire may have lost the archery competition, but she did well in the javelin throw and now she was taking a well deserved break to watch the rest of the morning events. Watching Loki toss boulders and giant trees that looked like telephone poles didn’t sound very exciting, but shit had she been wrong. Loki’s outfit, once pristine and appropriate, became damp with sweat as he hurled a massive boulder the length of a field, succeeding in defeating Volstagg and Hogun.

Claire learned that the telephone pole looking trees were called cabers, and the entire point of the game was to carry the pole down the pitch and then lift and flip it. None of those things sounded particularly interesting, but it did give her an excuse to ogle at Loki. To her surprise, it was actually a pretty interesting event, and all of the competitors were built. There were a number of competitors from Earth, like Steve and Bucky, as well as Asgardian competitors: Loki of course, as well as Thor, Volstagg, and Hogun. Soooo much eye candy to look at.

Hogun really had no business being so hot. As the heat of the morning rose, the stoic warrior had gathered his long hair in a top knot, and his beefy arms were on full display as he took his place at the end of the pitch. His biceps bulged as he cradled the end of the caber in his hands, jogging gracefully down the pitch before hefting the caber overhead. The caber did a graceful arc through the air, the other end striking the dirt and coming to a stop just before tipping over. The crowd groaned in disappointment but clapped politely as Hogun left the pitch.

Steve tried next, his caber almost flipping but just falling short. Anja cheered the loudest from Claire’s right. Sandwiched as she was between Sif and Anja, Claire heard every mutter of appreciation.

“You are a very fortunate woman.” Sif observed as Bucky threw his own caber, managing the first flip in the caber toss.

“Don’t I know it.” Anja preened, smiling when Bucky waved to her. Frigga offered no comments of her own, but giggled alongside them.

“I have so many questions about the metal arm.” Claire whispered to Anja.

“I also have questions.” Darcy muttered from beside Sif. Anja snickered, winked, and turned to wave back at Bucky. Volstagg took his turn next, failing to flip his caber. Thor managed to flip his as well, and finally, it was Loki’s turn.

Loki’s large hands cradled the caber delicately as he began his way down the pitch. Loose strands swayed as he moved, his biceps bulging with the strain of carrying the heavy weight. His handsome face was a mask of concentration, sharp jaw set firm as he prepared to launch his caber.

Loki planted his feet in the dirt, muscular thighs bulging as he lifted the caber over his head with a mighty roar. His tunic lifted with his arms, revealing a swath of toned muscle that Claire wanted to sink her teeth into.

The caber soared through the air, further than Bucky’s, planting in the ground with a solid thunk and creaked as it flipped, striking the ground with a loud crack. Thor bemoaned his loss as Steve and Bucky clapped Loki on the back.

“Woo! GO LOKI!” Claire cheered from the stands, setting off her airhorn multiple times to her neighbors shock and annoyance. The people from Earth in the audience laughed as the Asgardians looked around for the source of the loud noise in alarm.

“Where were you hiding that?!” Anja asked after her shock had passed. “Up your dress?”

“It has pockets!” Claire said gleefully, tooting the air horn a few more times. Somewhere in the crowd, Claire recognized the laughter of the former US president. She looked over her shoulder to see him and his wife cracking up, waving excitedly when they acknowledged her. “I made Michelle and Barack Obama laugh!” she giggled as she turned back toward the field, spying Loki as he and the others made their way to another area. Claire waved at him, feeling her cheeks grow warm when he waved back. He seemed surprised at her support, but it was clear he appreciated it.

“Look at how she blushes!” Sif teased.

“So cute!” Darcy chimed in.

“So precious!” Anja cackled.

“You guys are dicks,” Claire sulked, turning away from her so-called friends as her cheeks burned. Across the field, Loki and the other competitors were getting ready for the wrestling to begin. As the men were standing around talking as they awaited the judges, Claire took the time to inspect Loki. His tunic clung to him, wet with perspiration at the neck and back. His long dark hair had lost its beautiful bounce and had been tied back in a low bun, but several strands hung limp and loose around his collar. The tight pants he’d worn cupped his backside almost indecently, the fabric clinging to the meat of his thighs as if the material had been poured over his body. “God damn, I’m a lucky bitch.” she mumbled.

It was then that Loki noticed her staring, color rising in his cheeks as his companions ribbed him good-naturedly. Flashing her a smile, he made a swift gesture with his hand, and a flash of green on the railing in front of her drew Claire’s attention downward.

A cluster of delicate purple blooms sat atop a backdrop of fat rounded leaves, the stem just long enough to anchor in her hair.

Smiling, Claire tucked the small flower behind her ear.

“Ah, young love,” Frigga sighed wistfully from behind them. “His father and I were exactly the same way. We couldn’t keep our eyes, or our hands, off each other. We were caught in some very compromising situations in our early days.”

“Your Majesty!” Darcy gasped dramatically. Frigga merely chuckled.

“I imagine we’ll have quite a similar situation with these two.” she smiled at Claire knowingly. Claire averted her gaze as the women around her laughed like hyenas.

A cheer went up from the crowd as the start of the wrestling was announced.

~~~~

The wrestling was by far the best event of the morning. Loki and Fandral were locked in a vicious battle, and even though there were several yards between Claire’s seat and the match, she could still see the tantalizing strength of Loki’s muscles.

Sweat made his tunic cling to his back, fabric straining as his biceps bulged and flexed with the effort of defeating his opponent. Fandral pinned him, but Loki freed himself, shoving Fandral into the dirt with a feral snarl. Both men were dusty and filthy from rolling in the dirt, but somehow Loki was even more attractive, especially when mopping the floor with Fandral.

Thor and Volstagg had already had their bout (which Volstagg lost), and Hogun had bested Sif in theirs, but she’d been most excited to watch Loki in action.

“She is crazier than you are,” Fandral hissed, tightening his grip on Loki’s collar. He tried to shimmy free from Loki’s grip but found he couldn’t move an inch. “You two deserve each other.”

“Couldn’t agree more.” Loki gave Fandral a sneering smile before twisting his arm mercilessly and making him howl in pain.

“For Odin’s sake, I yield!” Fandral shouted, crawling away pathetically when Loki released his hold on him. “Odin’s beard. You’re both lunatics.” The referee called the match as Fandral stormed off, and Loki laughed aloud as Claire set off her air horn again. It was the most support he’d ever received at an event such as this, and it pleased him to no end.

~~~~

After the mornings events, lunch was served on the field. Blankets were spread on the grass and guests stuffed themselves with cured smoked salmon, reindeer sausage, and cheeses, along with fruit tarts and thick waffles with fresh butter and lingonberry jam.

Claire and Phil shared a blanket with Thor, Frigga and Odin, and Frigga kept them all occupied by sharing her thoughts on the morning’s events.

“Did you participate in the games for your wedding?” Phil asked.

“Oh yes,” Frigga chuckled. “When I was much younger, I was quite athletic.”

“Back in those days, war games were commonly played before weddings. Frigga was quite brilliant when we played; I’ll never forget how she bested me.” Odin looked over at Frigga fondly, who clucked her tongue and shoved at him playfully. Thor looked at the blanket uncomfortably at his parents display of affection. Claire also felt uncomfortable, but it was nice to see they still cared for each other.

Would she and Loki feel that way about each other in two thousand years?

“Ah, there is our victor!” Frigga said cheerfully as Loki dropped onto the blanket beside Claire. He was clean again, his hair still wet and beginning to curl at the ends.

“I see you’ve all started without me,” he said jovially as Thor passed him the salmon. “Hello, darling.” he added softly to Claire.

“Hey yourself,” Claire replied, offering him the platter of waffles. “I didn’t know your hair was curly.”

“Ah, yes,” Loki said sheepishly, eyes dropping as his cheeks turned the slightest pink. “It can be quite annoying at times.” a flash of green covered his hair, leaving it completely dry with nary a curl in sight.

“I think it’s cute.”

“Thank you.” Loki said sheepishly before taking a small bite of sausage.

“Are you both looking forward to the knattleikr?” Frigga asked, reminding them both there were other people around.

“I for one am very excited!” Thor said eagerly, taking a hearty bite of reindeer sausage. “I wager that Claire’s team will obliterate Loki’s.”

“They each get a team?” Phil asked.

“Oh yes, it is customary for the bride to lead her guests against the grooms,” Frigga replied. “It shall be most entertaining, I think.”

“I shall be gentlemanly and go easy on you.” Loki offered.

“Aw, that’s so sweet. I’m gonna destroy you.” Claire grinned.

“Never before have I heard such a charming threat! Well done,” Loki praised, popping a berry into his mouth. “This could do with eel.” he muttered as he tore a piece from his waffle.

“Ooh yes, that eel we had a few weeks ago was fantastic,” Claire agreed. “We should go back sometime, without Fandral.” she rolled her eyes, glaring over at the offender on his blanket across the field.

“Indeed.”

The rest of lunch passed easily, an excited buzz filling the early afternoon air. After everyone had eaten their fill, the spectators returned to the stands while the guests competing went to change. Claire, Anja and Sif chatted as they changed, joining the men on the field as they held a spirited conversation.

“I’m just saying, her records from S.H.I.E.L.D. are pretty impressive. Are we sure she’s not of super soldier origin? Hmmmm?” Tony asked, peering at Steve intently. Steve pulled a disgruntled face, backing away from the scientist.

“Um hi, hello. What are we talking about?” Claire asked. “You pulled my records?”

“Oh just speculating wildly on your hitherto unknown paternity,” Tony replied cheekily. “You know, locker room talk.”

“That’s messed up.” Anja muttered. Claire nodded, annoyed and slightly embarrassed. Trust Tony Stark to find exactly what would make here uncomfortable.

“I’d prefer if you didn’t.”

“But I want to?” Tony shrugged.

“You do realize I carry knives on me all the time, right?” Claire asked. “Stop talking.”

“What are you gonna do; stab me with no warning?” Tony cackled.

“Stabbing is a warning.” Claire and Bucky said in unison. Both wore matching annoyed expressions.

“Shit, maybe she’s yours, Barnes.” Tony elbowed Bucky, who looked at Tony like he was insane.

“Dude, stop.”

“Enough, Stark,” Loki growled. “Your speculation is unwelcome.” Tony gave Loki a cheeky grin.

“I mean, I could continue to throw out theories-”

“By all means,” Loki returned the cheek. “I will gladly step aside and allow you to be stabbed.”

“Okay, that’s enough, no one is stabbing anyone,” Steve said as he stepped in the middle. He glanced at Claire meaningfully. “Right?” Claire shrugged.

“We’ll see.”

“Hey, my wife will be very upset if you stab me!”

“Will she, though?” Claire asked. Tony gasped in fake shock.

“I cannot believe I claimed you as my possible-daughter; you’re out of the will!”

“Oh no, not the will! How ever will I live?!” Claire asked sarcastically. “Can we hurry up and pick teams so I can beat you?” she asked Loki.

“So confident,” Loki graced her with a smile. “Very well. Shall we?”

~~~~

The teams were down to the final quarter of the game, and the score was tied. The eight competitors were damp with sweat and painted with mud, but spirits were high. Claire’s team of Tony, Clint, Bucky and Anja had done very well against Loki’s team of Steve, Hogun, Sif, and Thor. No one had scored a goal yet in the final round and Claire was determined to win.

“Come on, set it up!” she called to her teammates, dodging Thor’s attempt to block her. Even though the god of thunder was competitive, he was clearly afraid of hurting her as any contact between them had been feather light and easy to evade.

Loki on the other hand, was not going easy on her like he’d promised. Not that it mattered to Claire- in fact it would make beating him all the better. They were both competitive, and delighted in stealing the ball from each other.

The ball began to shimmer, darting off course from where Hogun had kicked it and heading toward Claire, poised to score a goal.

“I saw that!” Loki shouted, signaling for a pause just as Claire reached the ball. “Seidr is not allowed.”

“Are you cheatin’, doll?” Bucky gasped, glancing at Anja with a scandalized expression.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Anja said innocently. “This is clearly the work of nargles.” Claire snorted a laugh, curling her lips inward to smother her laughter as Loki glared at her.

“Of what, madam?”

“Nargles!” Anja insisted. “You know, mischievous creatures that like to steal things? They’ve clearly taken a shine to the ball.”

Loki had never heard such nonsense. He had studied creatures, both magical in nature and ordinary, and never once had he heard of anything called a nargle. Yet he detected no hint of falsehood.

Odd.

“Fine,” he conceded. “Since play was disrupted, we shall reset and start again. Claire, the ball, please.”

“But I was about to score a goal!”

“Give it to me.” Loki demanded, grabbing the ball with both hands.

“Make me.” Claire stepped back, pulling the ball tighter against her body. Loki pulled harder, equally determined to keep his hold. Claire elbowed him in the solar plexus as she tried to wedge her body between Loki and the ball. Loki huffed in amusement, shaking his head as he fought against her hold.

“You are such a brat.”

“I’m not hearing a complaint.” Claire made a noise of protest as the ball slipped free of her grasp.

“Merely an observation.” Loki grinned, tucking the ball beneath his arm. Claire growled, charmed against her will by his dashing smile. Stupid handsome jerk.

“Hey love birds!” Tony shouted. “Can we speed this up? I’m too old for this shit.”

“You can take a break if you need to, old man,” Claire teased. “Want someone to bring your walker?”

“Oh you are so out of the will. Nargles, my ass,” Tony groaned, bracing his hands on his lower back as he cracked his spine. “Throw the ball already!” he complained.

“I was waiting for you to finish complaining.” Loki murmured as he spun the ball between his fingertips.

“Yeah, that’ll never happen,” Bucky shook his head. “We’ll be here all day waiting.”

“Shove it Barnes!”

“You shove it!” Bucky shot back. “C’mon, let’s wrap this up before the ol’ fogey breaks a hip.”

“No more nargles?” Loki peered at Anja suspiciously, ignoring the vulgar hand gestures Tony aimed at Bucky. Claire smothered a laugh as Bucky aimed one back.

“Don’t look at me, I didn’t have anything to do with it.” Anja said defensively. Loki grinned. Lie.

He tossed the ball into the middle of the field, his balance thrown off as Claire immediately shot past him to intercept it. She slid on her knees between Sif’s legs when the warrior tried to block her path, jumping back up to her knees to chase the ball. Thor reached it at the same time, heading her off. Perfectly at ease, the god of thunder posed no threat and simply wished to annoy his new sister by preventing her from advancing down the field. Claire was ready to win.

“Peace, sister, I do not wish to hurt you-ah!” Thor gasped as Claire moved him aside with a hip throw. Thor struck the dirt and Claire spun away, cackling as she kicked the ball back toward her teammates. The crowd laughed at the comical sight of the god of thunder sprawled in the dirt, as did Loki and everyone else on the field.

“You can’t do that!” Loki shouted in protest as Claire raced past him with the ball.

“Nobody told me that!” Claire shouted back gleefully. Bucky was waiting to block Hogun as Claire kicked the ball further up the field.

“What in Hel’s name are you doing?” Loki raced to Thor’s side, hoisting his oafish brother to his feet by his collar. “We are going to lose!”

“Did you see her throw me, brother?” Thor laughed in amazement. “She is fast as lightning!” he crowed.

“Gods, you are a fool. Come on!” Loki took off running, intent on stealing the ball back from Claire and Anja before they could score. He caught up to Claire easily, but she sensed him coming and darted to the side, evading his long reach. He followed closely, their arms tangling as they fought over the ball. Claire’s foot hooked around his and he was tugged off balance. Loki hit the dirt, rolling as Claire kicked the ball far ahead to Anja. He watched it sail through the air with sinking hope for victory. His teammates made no effort to foil their opponents and it reached the blonde with no interference. Loki watched in dismay as the captain allowed Anja to leisurely approach the goal and lightly tap the ball between the goal posts.

“Great job, sweetheart.” Steve praised as the crowd cheered from the stands. Anja smiled, squeaking with surprise when Bucky swooped in from behind and she found herself sandwiched between the pair.

“Gross.” Claire’s nose wrinkled as both men kissed Anja on the cheek.

“Victors are meant to celebrate,” Loki mused from the ground. “No kiss for me, I suppose.” he sighed theatrically.

“And risk scandal? Perish the thought.” Claire replied.

“It’s the least you could do after besting me.” Loki groused.

“Told you I’d wipe the floor with you,” Loki’s ire faded as Claire grinned down at him, arms crossed over her chest. Seeing her satisfied grin was worth being knocked to the ground. “Need a hand?” she helped him to his feet, helping him brush dirt and loose grass off his tunic.

“Well done.”

“Thanks. How’s Thor?”

“In awe of your skill, apparently,” Loki chuckled. “You shall have to teach me that move.”

“You know, I offer private lessons.”

“Do you?” Loki purred. “When could one partake in said lessons?” Claire wasn’t able to respond, as she and Loki were swept up in celebrating both her teams victory, and the end of the wedding games.

~~~~

“Say what you want,” Claire said around a mouthful of fire-roasted bird (she kept telling herself it was chicken). “They might be a little weird, but the Asgardians know how to party.” Despite the full day’s itinerary, people had flooded the beaches at sunset, setting massive mounds of wood ablaze along the coastline. People milled all around them- dancing, laughing, and eating and drinking as they celebrated the summer solstice. It seemed everyone with hair had braided beautiful blooms of flowers into their hairdos, even the men.

Claire sat beside a large bonfire with her uncle, taking a break from socializing with all the guests. She had to hand it to her new mother-in-law, combining her and Loki’s wedding with the celebration of the summer solstice had garnered a massive turnout. All around them people seemed to be having the time of their lives as they danced around the monumental fires.

“Do you think you could be happy here?” Phil asked somberly, breaking the happy spell cast on the evening. Claire stopped chewing, looking at him in surprise. She knew that as the wedding loomed closer, her uncle’s guilt for talking her into this grew. Now that it was less than 24 hours away, he was a mess. (Let’s be honest, so was she.)

“Honestly…” Claire looked around at all the frolicking people, adorned with flower crowns and henna tattoos of runes and sigils, and felt oddly at home. She’d always felt called to witchcraft so she was familiar with runes and divination, both of which seemed ingrained in the culture here. In Asgard, she wouldn’t be considered weird for her witchy proclivities. “I think I’m gonna love it.”

“Don’t lie just to appease me, Claire. I know you’re nervous.”

“I am, it’s true. All of this is definitely going to take some getting used to, but I can see myself being really happy here. This beach party makes me feel right at home.” Further along the beach, Claire spotted Thor and Loki among the crowd, both of them bedecked in braids and flowers. She had seen Loki sporadically through the crowd, nursing a mead. Thor was already drunk, hanging onto Loki for balance as they made their way to a blanket. Loki was in his signature green, although he’d forgone the leather for the beach party. Instead he wore soft-looking pants and a linen-type shirt, the fabric draping over him sensually as it shifted in the breeze. The v-neck of the top showed a triangle of his skin, and Claire wanted to see more. Bereft of his leathers, he looked practically naked. Slutty.

As if he knew she was gawking, Loki’s green eyes flicked in her direction, catching her in the crowd immediately. The heat of his gaze scorched her. He’d opted to line his eyes with kohl, making the green stand out even more than usual. Without taking his eyes off her, he said something to Thor and set off toward her.

“Even considering…” Phil’s question was lost on the wind as the intense eye contact with Loki continued unbroken as he made his way toward them.

“Hmm?” Claire offered helplessly, lost in the intensity of the gods gaze. Fuck, he’s hot. She suppressed a shiver as she remembered their passionate kiss under the willow tree. She wanted more of those kisses, and she wanted them bad.

“I said-”

“Gleðilegt Jónsmessa!” (Icelandic) Loki announced as he reached their blanket.

“Bless you?” Claire offered. Loki laughed heartily, shaking his head.

“Happy Midsummer to you both,” he translated. “May I?” he gestured to the open space between them on the blanket. Phil looked irritated, but Claire tucked the fan of her skirt beneath her to give him room to sit. “Are you enjoying the celebration?”

“I am, actually. It's not too different from the beach parties back home. Although we didn’t paint runes on our skin and people were usually crossfaded.”

“Crossfaded?” Loki asked.

“Right, sorry,” Claire smiled. “Remember the pot we smoked in the garden?” Loki nodded, ignoring Phil's confused look. “If we'd gotten drunk too, we would have been crossfaded.”

“I see. Is that something you enjoy?” Claire shrugged.

“It's alright, but I prefer weed to alcohol,” She explained. “Can I ask- why is everyone drunk? Is it part of the tradition or-”

“Did no one tell you?” Loki balked. “What a terrible slight,” He scooted closer to her, close enough that their knees pressed together. “Lore has long said that evil spirits walk amongst the living on the longest day of summer. The bonfires are to frighten them away, and ensure a good harvest later in the year. One tradition is that the more a man drinks, the more successful his crops will be come harvest time. Over time it's changed to anyone's endeavors and people imbibe in Freyja's name.”

“She's the goddess of midsummer? I thought it was love and fertility.”

“She is also associated with the sun and the warmth of summer,” Loki replied. “There is also a tradition for lovers to jump over a bonfire together- it is supposed to bring good luck.”

“Good luck as in lots of babies? The pagans considered midsummer a celebration of fertility.”

“That they did,” Loki chuckled. “And yes, that is the belief here as well.”

“Are people going to make us jump over a fire?” Loki laughed at her question.

“Possibly,” he said sheepishly. “My mother is all but frothing at the mouth at the idea of children.”

“My mom would be too.”

“What happened to her?” Loki asked gently. “You said she passed when you were young, but-”

“I don't like to talk about it,” Claire chewed her bottom lip, her fingers rubbing her wrist in agitation. “It was really traumatic.”

“My apologies.” Loki frowned. He knew mortals were fragile, but how bad could it have been for the usually composed woman to act that way? Phil looked back and forth between them in silent astonishment. It was like a night and day difference between their first meetings. Instead of shouting and insulting each other, they seemed to have found an equilibrium, or at the very least a modicum of intimacy. Seeing them sit in companionable silence, Phil felt a bit better about talking Claire into this.

“Gleðilegt Jónsmessa!” A young child crowed happily as she waved at the prince and future princess. Her mother looked on from the beach, offering a sheepish smile as her daughter spoke a mile a minute to the prince.

“She is asking if you would like flowers.” Loki translated, smiling at Claire.

“Oh! I thought I couldn't have them,” Claire had wanted flowers, but as an unmarried woman, she wasn't allowed the braids other women wore theirs in.

“The braids, no, but you may have as many flowers as you like.”

“Just one, please.” Loki accepted an orange blossom from the little girl with a smile, turning to offer it to Claire. Claire swept her long hair over her shoulder, and Loki took the opportunity to lean closer.

“Next year,” he murmured as he tucked the stem behind her ear. “You will have a flower crown to put the others to shame.”

“I'll hold you to that.” Claire laughed, glad she wasn't the only one of them thinking about the future. The little girl squealed with delight, throwing her arms around Claire's neck in a surprise hug. Her mother gasped and reached for the girl, but Claire laughed and hugged the little girl back. The girl said something quickly, her small finger toying with the flower petals.

“She says it is as pretty as you are,” Loki translated. “It’s true. The color suits you.”

“Even though it's not green?” Claire teased. “How do I thank her?”

“Tack själv,” Loki replied, charmed when Claire repeated it flawlessly to the young girl before sending her back to her mother with a wave. “You have no runes? No wishes for the coming year?” He asked in surprise when he spied her bare arms.

“I didn't know where to get them! Do you have them?”

“Of course,” Loki grinned, pulling up his sleeves to show off the artwork on his skin. Claire recognized the runes, the symbols for abundance, joy, power and transformation. “Do you know them?”

“Mmhmm,” Claire hummed, tapping each rune with a finger. “Uruz, wunjo, dagaz, fehu.”

“How is it that a Midgardian is wise to the ways of magic?”

“My mom was very religious, but it was never the right fit for me, and when she died...” Claire swallowed. “I rejected it completely. I had a hard time believing a just god could allow her to die the way she did. Still do. Eventually, I found my way to witchcraft.” Claire grinned.

“I see. Someday I will ask you about it. I'm curious how our magics compare.”

“I am too.”

“Loki!” Thor called from a ways down the beach. He had gathered all the Avengers around him, along with a few of the political guests and Asgardians. “LOKI!” he waved cheerfully.

“Norns, what does he want?” Loki sighed.

“You must jump the fire!” Thor cried, miming a jump as best he could in his inebriated state. “Bring your wife to be!”

“He’ll never leave us alone.” Loki groaned, looking over at Claire apologetically. Claire threw her head back and laughed as Thor continued his poor pantomime, spilling mead over himself and the unsuspecting sand beneath his feet.

“We should put him out of his misery,” she said as Thor’s inner lack of equilibrium caught up with him and he dropped his mead. “Just this once.”

“Just this once.” Loki echoed, offering her his hand once he’d gotten to his feet. The group of onlookers cheered as they approached, garnering more attention from the party goers. Before long, a large crowd had gathered around the bonfire. Excitement filled the air as space was made for them to approach the fire, welcoming them into the circle.

Loki was even more handsome in the firelight, the dancing flames casting shadows that danced along his sharp cheekbones like a lovers caress. If she stretched up on her tiptoes, she’d be able to kiss the smooth expanse of his cheek. She considered it, until she saw how worried he looked.

“Loki? You okay?” she asked. Loki’s eyes darted from the fire to hers, the wild edge receding when she grabbed his hand. Was she imagining it or was his hand shaking?

“...yes, I’m fine,” Loki replied absently, his throat fighting to close up as he tried to ignore the flashbacks of the last time he’d been this close to fire. Claire wasn’t convinced; he could tell by the way her lips twisted. Thankfully, she said nothing as the crowd parted began calling for them to jump. “Are you ready?” Tucking her concern aside for the time being, Claire looked back at what awaited them.

The fire beckoned like a glistening promise of what was to come, if they were brave enough to face it. Coming to Asgard was a challenge unlike any Claire had ever faced before, but Loki made the struggle worth it. Despite their rocky start, Claire felt they’d found their equilibrium at last, and formed a strong bond to see them through the challenges still yet to come. She just hoped he felt the same.

The fire crackled loudly, wispy fingers of smoke beckoning them closer. The only way out was through.

“Ready, Freddy,” Claire looked up at Loki, smiling when he laced their fingers together. “Let’s do this.”

There was a short run, a flicker of heat, a feeling of weightlessness, and then sand between her toes as they touched back down.

Loki's shirt collar rode low on his chest as they landed on the other side, allowing her to see the rune above his heart. It was the bindrune for love. For all their flirting and skirting the line of the rules, seeing the rune made Claire's heart flutter like nothing else. Physical connections were one thing, but to know he wanted something deeper made her happy enough to burst. He does feel the same.

An eruption of cheers met them as those gathered shouted their congratulations and showered them with blooms from their braids. Loki’s hand reached out to fix the flower in her hair, his thumb tracing the apple of her cheek. Claire was about to tackle him onto the sand when Thor lumbered his way over.

“Congratulations to you both,” he said warmly, massive hands clasping their shoulders. “My new sister!” he shook her excitedly, releasing her as he leaned in close. Loki’s hands steadied her when she staggered, warmth from his palms blooming over her hips. “I was able to procure the gift you asked for.”

“Are you shitting me?” Claire burst into laughter, rocking back into Loki’s broad frame. “You actually found a talking llama?”

“Of course! A prince of Asgard always keeps his word,” Thor puffed up with pride, his face breaking into a huge grin as he pulled her into a hug. “I am joking, sister. It is only a regular llama. Try not to be too disappointed, hmm?” he laughed as he released her again. “In the name of Odin All-father- I, Thor Odinson, do hereby bless this union!” he shouted in his booming voice, spurring another round of cheers from the crowded beach. “May you be fruitful, and happy.” he gave Loki a meaningful glance, embracing them both again before going off in search of more mead.

“Would you like some runes?” Loki asked over the roar of the crowd. “I can paint them for you.”

“Yes! I'd love some.” Claire was grateful for a reprieve from the mortification of strangers cheering for her to get pregnant.

“I will fetch the supplies,” Loki smiled. “Excuse me.” Claire made her way back to the blanket where Phil waited, waving at the people who greeted her.

“So you two are friendly now?” Phil asked as she sat down again. Claire's cheeks turned pink as he stared at her knowingly.

“We've been spending time together.” she replied defensively.

“Supervised time?” Phil pressed.

“Obviously,” Claire said. “You know the rules as well as I do.”

“Mmhmm.” Phil wasn't convinced, but he wasn't going to run to Odin about it. Even if Phil did not like or trust Loki, they were adults.

“Something to say?” Claire challenged as she picked at the hem of her skirt. She really wasn't one for dresses, but they were growing on her. The material was so soft it felt like butter.

“Just weird, that's all. You seem awfully close for people who haven't spent any time alone.”

“Mmhmm,” Claire said absently. “Look I know you're not fooled, so just don't say anything okay?”

“How did he do it?”

“How did who do what?” Claire asked innocently. “I don't know what you're talking about.”

“Mmhmm.” Phil grumped. Claire returned to picking at her skirt as Loki returned with henna ink and a brush.

“Which runes would you like?”

“Surprise me, but I have one request.”

“Of course.” Claire smiled shyly before looking directly at the spot above his heart. Loki grinned, and she thought she saw a faint blush on his cheeks as he took brush to ink and got to work. He worked methodically, creating straight, confident lines with a steady hand. She watched him work, completely relaxed under his hands. She took the opportunity to really study him, the sharp angle of his cheek bones, the arch of his eyebrows, the length of his eye lashes. A strand of his long black hair had escaped the braids and hung in his handsome face, curling softly against his cheek and looking sleek as an oil spill in the light from the fire. Claire studied the elegant shape of his hands, appreciating the soft sensation of their skin brushing as he worked. His forearms were slim and toned, and she could see the veins and cords of muscle flex beneath his skin. Though hidden from her gaze, Claire knew his biceps were just as luscious and the way the fabric of his shirt stretched over them was making her feel feral. He really was a beautiful man. Between them, their legs touched at the knee, the tops of their bare feet squished together. The hem of Claire's dress fluttered in the breeze, exposing her ankle, and Claire laughed suddenly at the thought of Loki fainting at the sight.

“Are you alright?” He asked, looking up from his work.

“Yeah, just had a funny thought,” she explained. “My ankle is showing.”

“How scandalous.” Loki teased.

“Not gonna faint?”

“Not after seeing your-” Loki stopped, glancing over at Phil. “Never mind,” Claire smiled wolfishly as she recalled how he'd reacted to seeing her in leggings. The poor bastard had no idea what was coming. “It's not funny.”

“I think it's hilarious. God of mischief, struck dumb by a pair of leggings.”

“It was not the leggings, but what they contained. Or rather, barely contained. I have half a mind to disallow you from wearing them in public.”

“Fat chance,” Claire replied. “And honey, if you think those were scandalous, you've got another thing coming.” Loki hung his head, exhaling through his nose.

“You're trying to distract me. Let me work, please, lest you end up rich in fish.” Claire giggled at his ludicrous threat.

“Considering my love for sushi, that sounds lovely.” Loki snickered along with her as he finished the last rune.

“I'm afraid I can't give you this one,” he tapped the end of the brush on his chest. “It wouldn't be appropriate.”

“Okay, I'll do it then. Lemme see?” She asked, taking the brush from him. Loki swallowed before tugging his shirt collar down to expose the rune. Claire tugged her own collar down to begin painting the rune when Phil finally seemed to wise up to what they were doing and flicked water at them from his glass.

“Behave please. You're in public.”

“For fucks sake, he's gonna see it tomorrow anyway!” Claire groaned in exasperation, rolling her eyes when Phil shook his head.

“Look I personally don't care. But there are very specific rules here.”

“Fuck the rules. We're getting married in less than 24 hours,” Claire huffed. “Ridiculous.”

“Perhaps it would be best-”

“It'll take two seconds, mischief,” Claire pleaded. “Unless you really don't want to risk it.”

“Do it.” Loki challenged, pulling his collar back down with a smirk. Claire grinned back, getting to work painting the rune above the swell of her left breast. Each time she glanced at the rune on Loki's chest, he was staring at her unrepentantly. She figured he was ogling her just as she'd done to him earlier, and pulled her collar lower just to give him something to stare at.

Loki couldn't help but stare as she lowered her collar further than necessary. He'd had reservations going into this farce, but now...he dared any to stop them from being wed tomorrow. His ever present desire for her bubbled in his veins and any man who dared try to take her from him would die slowly and painfully. He spied a speck of black in the valley between her breasts and straightened, trying to see it better.

“It's a tattoo,” Claire said knowingly, catching his eye as she finished painting the rune. “Similar to these, but this is permanent. Wanna see?” She grinned wolfishly, making him laugh as he nodded. She glanced around for any naysayers before exposing the tattoo. Loki found himself filled with a new appreciation for the moon cycles as he drank in the sight of her tattoo. Whimsical and delicate star bursts lay scattered around phases of the moon connected by a thin line of dashes. Dividing her chest in half, the tattoo graced the valley between her breasts like a hanging chain. The black ink contrasted her creamy skin beautifully, and he longed to trace it with his fingertips and tongue.

“It's lovely.”

“Any chance I'll see you later tonight?” Claire asked quietly. “I could show you up close.”

“I cannot tonight, darling. At least, not as I have been. I have wedding duties to attend to after this.”

“That's unfortunate,” Claire sighed. “Here I was hatching schemes.”

“You’ll have to hatch your schemes tomorrow night, menace,” Loki's eyes shone with mischief as they shared a smile. “Otherwise I will be unable to fulfill my duties tomorrow.”

“Well when you put it that way,” Claire dabbed the rune on her chest with her finger to test its dryness. When her finger came away clean, she released her collar and Loki mourned the loss. “It’s a date.”

~~~~

Halfway through the night, Claire was jostled awake by a woman asking her to follow her. At the woman’s insistence that it was important, Claire begrudgingly left her warm bed and followed the woman out of her chambers and down the darkened palace hallways. After what felt like an eternity of walking, the woman ushered Claire into a dimly lit large room and closed the door behind them. As Claire’s eyes adjusted the low lighting, she noticed the unusual number of couches as well as people that filled the room.

“What in the hell…?” Claire’s foggy brain was working overtime to try and process what was going on. Loki’s words from early echoed in her mind: Sleep well. You will need it. Turning back to the woman she asked, “What is this?”

“It is your kvángaðr vaka, my lady.” The girl replied.

“My what?” Claire asked, blanching as a man approached her with his arms outstretched. “Um…hi. Can I help y-hey!” Claire slapped the man’s hands away when he tried to remove her nightgown.

“Please don’t be alarmed, my lady. We only wish to please you.” The man said apologetically.

“I don’t understand. I am half asleep and confused and I want you to stop touching me.” Claire said, pushing the man’s hands away a second time. “Who are you? What is going on?!”

“This is a safe place, my lady; no harm will come to you here,” the woman replied gently. “We are masters in the sacred arts of pleasure. This is called a marriage awakening in your tongue. It is meant for you to discover what pleases you so that your marriage bed will be enjoyable.”

“Be that as it may…” Claire said hesitantly, trying to think of the most diplomatic answer. “I’m not sure Prince Loki would like the idea of-”

“But he is already here, my lady.” The woman answered, gesturing to a far corner of the room.

“What?” Claire balked, following the woman’s arm to where Loki stood…with his cock in a blonde woman’s mouth as she knelt in front of him. How charming. “Oh,” she added quietly, pointedly ignoring the lines of muscle she could see from here. Loki hid his physique behind all the metal and leather, and oh my was he hiding a feast for her eyes. Claire wasn’t sure where to look first- his large hands as they guided the woman’s head, the peppering of dark hairs that trailed enticingly down his chest, his thighs, his biceps…

Arousal pooled between her thighs as she gaped at him helplessly, her jaw slack as she burned in awe of his strength. She’d seen his muscles up close in the training arena, but she wanted to know what his hands felt like in her hair as he fucked her mouth.

“My lady?”

“I wasn’t drooling,” Claire blurted quickly, snapping her attention away from the smooth motion of Loki’s hips to the woman beside her, curling her lips inward as the woman gave her a respectful look that clearly meant ‘okay bitch, whatever you say’. “I still don’t understand.”

“That’s alright, my lady; we will guide you,” the woman said. “Our goal is to help you learn what your body likes. Tomorrow before the wedding ceremony, we will give our report to Prince Loki. Don’t worry, my lady, you shall receive a report as well,” she added, placating Claire before she could open her mouth. “This way, when your marriage is consummated, it will be more enjoyable for you both.”

“That…actually makes sense,” Claire found herself saying. “But what about the ‘no-sex-before-marriage’ thing?” she asked.

“Do not fret my lady, your maidenhead will remain intact,” the serving girl assured her. “We would never deny your husband his privilege.”

“Privilege,” Claire repeated numbly, glancing over at Loki again, who still had his cock in a woman’s mouth (not that she was surprised) and was face-fucking her rather roughly. Jesus dude. Definitely ignoring how hot that is. Wait, is that a different girl? “Riiiight.”

In the firelight, Claire could very clearly see the flex of Loki’s strong thighs and the dimples of his ass cheeks as he fucked into the pliant mouth of the woman on her knees. Her hands grasped at his thighs for balance, and Claire’s insides burned with fury and jealousy. How dare that cunt think she had a right to touch her Loki?

“You said arts? Multiple?” Claire asked. The woman smiled, offering her hand.

“Indeed I did, Your Highness.”

~~~~

“Enjoying yourself?” Loki’s silky smooth voice hissed in her ear, completely shattering her little world. She was laid out, naked, on a remarkably comfortable couch, with the man from before face-planted between her thighs. The woman who’d woken her sat behind her, cradling Claire against her chest as she caressed Claire’s goose-pimpled flesh with soft furs.

“I was,” Claire sighed irritably as she opened her eyes to glare at him, her jealousy from earlier coming back to the fore. “What do you want?”

“I’m simply curious what has you making so much noise.” Loki said teasingly, enjoying the annoyed look on Claire’s face.

“I’m surprised you could hear anything over your grunting.” Claire shot back. Loki grimaced for a brief second before flashing a joking smile.

“Yes well…dry spells will have that effect on anyone.”

“True.” Claire conceded as a shiver ran through her. She could feel her orgasm building but if she was honest, the man between her legs was prolonging it more than helping her reach it. She could easily give him instructions, but she was content to enjoy the prolonged pleasure at this point.

“Have you come yet?” Loki asked softly, his eyes rapt on the dark hair between her thighs.

“Working on a third,” Claire sighed. “Why, have you?” she asked nonchalantly, shivering as a fur trailed across her nipples.

“Of course I have. Twice.” Loki scoffed.

“That’s twice?!” Claire balked as her eyes dropped to his still-raging hard on. Loki shot her a wolfish smile.

“And I have several more left in me. Think of the fun we’ll have, little wife,” he smirked, dropping to his knees behind her head. “Shall I give him directions?” he said softly in her ear, sending a chill down her spine. Claire nodded helplessly, wanting so desperately to reach her peak. And maybe, just maybe, a small part of her wished Loki would touch her. Okay, a big part.

“Please.” She said airily, her face flushing when he grinned predatorily at her.

“You’re off center, boy. To the left,” Loki instructed the man, smirking satisfactorily when Claire’s body seized and she gave a loud squeal. “Hold her down, for goodness sake; you’ll never get any traction with her thrashing about,” he snapped, watching with delight as Claire’s face flamed, her breath coming in pants as her hips twitched. The man’s grip turned to iron, keeping Claire in place as the woman’s arms locked around her to keep her still. “Harder,” He commanded, growling appreciatively as one of Claire’s hands fisted in the hair at his nape. “Better?”

“Better!” Claire gasped, her body tensing and jerking as she imagined how nice it would be if Loki were to pinch her nipples. Her orgasm swelled and burst suddenly and she stopped caring that she was on display as she felt as it crashed through her.

“Oh, I can’t wait to do this to you myself,” Loki groaned in her ear as his hand snaked its way down her belly, leaving electric ripples of pleasure in its wake. “Tomorrow it will be me pleasuring you- my head between your thighs and my tongue on your clit,” Claire’s muscles clenched in anticipation as his long fingers neared the top of her sex. “What do you think of that, little wife?” he murmured heatedly.

“Prince Loki.” the woman holding Claire broke the spell, her eyes focused on his hand pointedly.

“My intended is more than capable of saying whether she minds my touching her,” Loki replied shortly as he stood up. “Aren’t you?” Claire was puzzled by his question. Did she mind? Two seconds ago she was aching for him to touch her between her thighs, but now she just wanted a nap. Well, if she didn’t know, he wouldn’t either. Or so she thought, until the smug bastard grinned at her. “Focus, darling, do you wish for me to stop?”

“Not really, but shouldn’t your dick be in someone else’s face right now?” she managed to ask in an exasperated tone. Good job Claire. Loki gave a soft laugh.

“Quite right,” he agreed. “But since I helped you…whom do you think I should solicit next? The brunette or the redhead?”

#covenant #loki fic #loki x ofc #loki

33 notes · View notes