Buried - crossover LOTR/Avengers/Sherlock/James Bond - Cicely/Loki
title: Buried
fandom: too many
rating: teen
pairing: Cicely/Loki, Amariel/Legolas, Molly/Sherlock
warnings: none?
summary: I don't want to give it away
a/n: I must admit I started this probably a year ago and it's not a completely done story line, but it works where I ended it. It is also my longest publish piece of writing with 6,871 words. I hope it flows alright even with my hiatus. I dedicate this to florencia7 who keeps me writing. I hope you enjoy this. Lately all the stress has really put a damper on my muse but I have wanted to get this up here for a very long time so I forced myself to finish it because I needed to accomplish and finish something for once.
I hope this doesn't blow up in my face.lol.
all mistakes are mine...and there are probably a few---million.
BURIED
A tapping on his cell door broke Loki out of his reverie. Only one person on Asgard would even think that knocking would be a good idea. Thor. His brother had not come to see him for a few weeks and his sudden appearance peeked his interest. Perhaps the Allfather had changed his mind, unlikely, or mother had intervened somehow with Thor's help, which was also improbable.
“Loki,” Thor whispered. “Your punishment has been decided.” The trickster knew this day was coming and after eight long months in the dank cell waiting he felt some of the weight lift from his shoulders. Even with the possibility of execution, which was highly unlikely, his hope could not be broken because nothing could compare to his time spent among the Chitauri. His only regret would be leaving Cicely behind without saying goodbye if the worst were to happen.
“Tell me brother what the council has decided,” Loki spoke calmly. He kept his breathing steady though his heart kept skipping beats while he waited for Thor to end his silent suffering.
“Execution,” the Thunder God murmured. For a moment Loki heard nothing but the sound of water dripping ceaselessly in the dark corners of his prison. The possibility had crossed his mind but he had never honestly believed that Odin would take his life as payment for deeds done against his will. Of course, only Cicely knew from his own mouth about what had actually happened during his time with Thanos and the Chitauri. He suspected that Thor too had thought that he had been under some sort of spell but only because he did not want to believe that his brother was capable of such destruction. That he was a monster.
“I will not let them have you,” Thor wrapped his arms around his younger brother. Loki blinked then looked to see that the door to his cell was indeed open and that Thor was actually with him.
“The word of the Allfather is written in stone Thor. There is nothing you can do.” Loki had learned that fact the hard way. Death had never frightened him but now there was another factor to include in his equations, Cicely. Sentiment was a dangerous thing.
"I never planned to change father's mind, brother," Thor whispered. Loki could not hope to believe in a lifetime a situation where the golden son of Asgard would defy their king and especially not for the outcast. His brother had truly grown during his time on Midgard.
"Pray tell Thor what your plans entail." He was heavily guarded unless Thor was there and only because Odin commanded that they have privacy while the princes spent time together. It was a miracle that no one had come the moment the Thunder God had entered the cell, but perhaps there were no enchantments or his brother had suddenly become a master of magic.
"First I will remove your bindings," Thor reached for his arms and gently held his wrists while he worked on the cuffs that dampened his natural magic. The moment he was free Loki could feel the surge in his veins and his hands glowed a faint green before his wrists began to heal from where the bands had rubbed them raw. It was a relief to feel his body working properly since his healing magic had become instinctual.
"This won't change the past Thor," Loki warned. "Odin---"
"Has done too much damage. I understand." Ragnorak was coming if Thor was agreeing with him. Perhaps something had happened during the three weeks that the golden prince had been gone or maybe someone had knocked some sense into him. There were enough secrets within their family to fill a thousand page book and while he loved Frigga like a mother he would never again look upon Odin as his father or Asgard as his true home. He had no home.
"We must hurry before the guards come back," Thor urged as he grabbed Loki's arm.
"You must stay here Thor, this is where you belong." The Thunder God's frown deepened as he realized what Loki planned. How the trickster wished that Thor could not read him so easily but he was tired and beaten. The magic had healed his physical wounds but not the psychological ones. He was essentially saying his goodbyes to what had been his life for over a thousand years.
"I will not abandon you Loki so do not ask it of me. We were raised brothers and we shall die brothers. There is nothing that I would change about you, not even your Jotun heritage. I love you because you are my brother and you shall remain so." Loki felt like laughing but kept a blank face. He was not the god of lies for nothing.
"You would defy the Allfather to help me escape? You have responsibilities Thor and mother would be devastated. You are the beloved son not I."
"Must you twist everything? We love you!" Loki did laugh then and Thor shrank back. Sweet, naive Thor could not fathom a world where nothing went the way he planned. He never had to live in a shadow of someone else's greatness or be ridiculed for his differences.
"I am to die Thor. Do not pretend to think that the Allfather does not agree with the council's decision because his word was the final vote. Do not forget that it was him who took my children from me. Nari and Valli were innocent." Thor dropped his head into his hands and took a deep breath. His shoulders sagged and Mjölnir sat untouched near his feet. Loki felt a tiny jolt to his chest but brushed it aside. Sentiment was a characteristic of the losing side.
"I was blind and full of arrogance. Father was wrong to take your sons and if I could I would change history but I hold no such power. I will spend the rest of my life trying to fix the wrongs done to you Loki, but you must be willing to accept that." The trickster closed his eyes and sighed. Deep down he knew Thor was right. Cicely had told him he could not hold on to all the anger but sometimes it was easier to hate than risk losing those he loved. He still dreamed about his little boys chasing one another through the palace halls, their laughter echoing through the golden rooms. Their mother, Sigyn, had drank poison but a few days after their abduction and was buried without so much as a ceremony. She had been his wife, his princess and his light. Extinguished. It was time to let go of the madness trying to consume him. Thor deserved at least that. Cicely deserved so much more than a broken shell of a man living in the past. Time would eventually heal his wounds and he had an abundance of time. Perhaps he could learn to accept himself.
"I hope you have a place in mind," Loki smirked when Thor's head snapped up. "Because I am giving you complete control over this pathetic attempt at rescue." The golden prince stood and held his hand out to his younger brother, Mjölnir held tightly again in his right hand. Loki allowed him to help him to stand and together they left his prison.
The corridors leading to the top floors of the palace were suspiciously empty but Thor appeared at ease so Loki figured it was part of the plan. He was beginning to believe that perhaps their mother had a role in his escape because Thor tended to hit first and think later. This amount of planning was usually left to him when they were on their journeys and any time they found themselves among the enemy.
"Do you need anything from your quarters?" Thor's whisper was for once quiet.
"Nothing that I cannot summon later. We should keep moving and try to make it to the forest we used to visit when we were younger. I still need to build up my magic before I even think of teleporting us to a different realm." Thor nodded and peeked around a corner. The lack of people in the living areas was disconcerting but the Thunder God reassured him that it was meal time. For the past three weeks his brother had been observing the routine of the guards and palace servants to pick the most opportune moment to rescue him. Loki was actually speechless.
"Do not think I ignored your instructions Loki. It may seem like I do not heed your words but they always make an impression on me." If it had not been for the fact that the man next to him was carrying Mjölnir, he would have thought Thor was some sort of imposter. He was not the only one good at hiding his true self.
"You always seemed more focused on the weapons and technique than the actual planning needed to carry out those orders." Thor chuckled lightly before turning to face Loki and placing his warm hand against his neck. It was second nature to them.
"Because I knew you would always be there. It never once crossed my mind that you would not be there by my side during battle, but in New York that was shattered. I would have you fight by my side again."
"Perhaps one day that will happen Thor, but I have to forgive myself before I can forgive others." The golden prince frowned and rested his head against the younger man's.
"You are worth the wait Loki," Thor murmured before pulling the trickster into his embrace. "Never doubt that you are loved." Loki allowed Thor's scent of ozone mixed with earth to calm and comfort him before pulling away from the warmth. It amazed him that the thought that he was possibly adopted never once crossed his mind when him and Thor were so completely different. Where Thor burned brightly Loki was cool to the touch and held a dark mystery about him like a cloak. One favored brute force while the other spent hours upon hours buried deep in ancient tomes. Their younger years they spent together and were hardly separate from one another, but once they reached their late adolescent years everything began to change. Odin had planted a seed between them that would continue to grow until there was nothing but competition between the brothers. Two princes borne to rule but only one throne. Loki never stood a chance.
"We are almost to safety," Loki smiled though his lips turned down at the edges.
The door by the kitchens that led into the spice garden was opened and unoccupied. Thor led the way followed closely by Loki. It almost felt like their little adventures they had when children and they sneaked out to watch the stars. Oh how he wished he could go back to those times but too much had happened. There was only so much that he could erase from his memories and some things were unforgivable.
"We can rest for a few days before traveling to Midgard," Thor explained once they had made it past the palace walls and into the back fields. They were free for the moment and Loki could not help the relief that flooded his body and he collapsed to the ground. His brother was beside him instantly but the trickster shook him off.
"Just merely relieved," Loki reassured him. After taking a few moments he stood and leaned on Thor before they took off once more. They were not completely safe yet but the woods were not far away and they knew exactly where to hide.
"We will not be able to seek help from the Avengers, but there is New Mexico," the thunder god spoke. "Lady Jane must be in Norway still and we could use her old trailer." Loki shook his head.
"Need to get back to Cicely," he answered Thor's unasked question. "The Chitauri have damaged much of London and I have promised to return to her no matter the cost." Thor bent his head down in thought before silently agreeing with Loki.
"Then let us make our way to our old dwelling and rest before taking leave of Asgard. We may not have more than tonight before the guards or the Warriors Three find us." Loki nodded his head and allowed Thor to help him along the path that only they knew.
The woods were silent and the creatures uneasy. Thor kept watch at the door of their small hut they had made years earlier. Behind him Loki slept fitfully on a bed made from animal skins he had found in an old chest. He needed the strength to perform magic but nightmares plagued him even now with his brother standing as protector. Chitauri hands groped for him in the endless dark, their leathery skin cold to the touch and unwelcome. There was no escape and Thor would not come for him, not now when he had been violated. The golden prince would never touch something with such filth. His screams were silent even as he fought the tears away.
"Loki," Thor shook him gently. There was an urgency behind that tone his brother was using. The trickster woke with a start and almost punched Thor in the face but the Thunder God held his arm gently before releasing it to rest in his lap. His nightmares always left him empty and skittish. "Someone is outside. We must make a move now or it may be too late."
"Guards?" Loki asked quietly. His brother nodded his head.
"And perhaps Hogun. He was always the best tracker besides you." The god of lies smiled gently before moving to stand. Teleportation spells used a great deal of energy but they had no choice. Even if they could slip by the palace guard, Hogun was a skilled warrior and one of Thor's friends.
"Then we must leave now Thor. Grab a hold of my arm and do not let go." His brother did as was told, his grip leaving fingerprints upon his weakened form. A week. In a week he would have his full powers restored and his health back. Just as Loki closed his eyes to concentrate on a point of location Thor shouted his name and he felt a burning sensation in his side as they disappeared in a cloud of green. Once again he found himself peering at the roots of Yggradsil though there was something different. Where the tree was usually a vibrant shade of brown it was now shriveled and faded. Poisoned. Loki tried to reach out his own magic but before the tendrils could touch the roots they landed hard on the streets of London. A snow covered London from the cold wetness he could feel on his face and exposed hands. Beside him Thor grunted in pain before moving to crouch over him.
"Loki?" His brother should not have sounded so far away and everything was darkening around the edges. He knew that London had been without electricity, but it had to be daylight still. The trickster made to sit up but he fell back with a silent scream. He placed his hand against his side, where the pain flared from, only to have it covered in his blood. The throbbing that had been manageable came back full force. He had been so focused on his magic that his senses of the physical world had faded.
"Thor," his voice cracked. He could feel his brother's presence but he was fading fast. "Hogun's knife pierced you just as we disappeared. It is a deep wound brother," Thor's voice wavered.
"Then it is fortunate that I have found you," a voice spoke from behind them. Loki knew that voice and sighed in relief. The man could be dangerous but he would not allow harm to come to his niece's lover.
"Mycroft," the god of lies smirked despite the blood dripping past his lips. He could hear the soft thump of the bigger man's umbrella against the pavement before the faint smell of tobacco and brandy filled his nose.
"A pleasure as usual Mr. Laufeyson," Mycroft droned. He knew how much Loki detested that name and never failed to use it excessively.
"Please," Thor interrupted the light banter. "He needs healers." Mycroft's gaze left Loki's face only to settle on that of his older brother's.
"Do not worry Mr. Odinson, Mr. Laufeyson shall be well taken care of, I can assure you." Before either of the Asgardians knew what was happening, Loki was lifted by a few men dressed completely in black and placed into a waiting black car at the corner of the street. Thor stood quickly but Mycroft shook his head gently.
"Where are you taking him?"
"If you would follow me," Mycroft motioned toward a much sleeker car behind Thor. "We have much to discuss while your brother receives treatment." The Thunder God sighed and slid into the car before Mycroft joined him.
Loki could not remember falling asleep but he awoke in a bright white room. For a brief moment he had panicked before a doctor appeared and injected him with a clear liquid. He tried to fight but his body refused to respond to his mental commands.
"It is to help you to relax," the doctor smiled. "You'll be in pain for a few hours." Loki fought the sleep that was trying to take him under, but his wearied body needed the rest. His eyes were just about to close when he noticed a shadow standing in the open doorway and moved his head to see it better. Mycroft stared at him, his face as usual, was a blank mask. Behind him stood Thor, his body relaxed but his expression was pinched. Loki wanted to comment but his eyes drifted closed against his will.
"He does not like to be drugged," Thor informed the man in front of him.
"Unfortunately we hardly ever get our way, Mr. Odinson. Your brother needs to rest to gain strength and you and I shall have a little chat." The blond Asgardian made to enter Loki's room, but Mycroft's raised umbrella hindered any movement pass the door frame. "Later."
"Are you always so cold?" Mycroft's answering smile was anything but friendly.
"Emotions cloud judgment God of Thunder. Perhaps you can talk to your brother about his." Thor held back his anger and allowed the heavier man to lead him away. The corridors in this section of the underground building were cold and sterile, but he expected nothing else for the healing ward that belonged to this man. Mycroft would not disclose their location, but Thor understood his reasoning even if he did not like all the secrets that these people kept.
"What did the doctors say about his condition?" Thor asked just to break the heavy silence that had fallen. It seemed that wherever Mycroft went the others would disappear and the lack of interaction kept the Asgardian from relaxing. This man was not someone to be crossed.
"His healing magic took care of most of the wound after we got the bleeding to stop. His magic was bound was it not?" Thor stopped even as Mycroft continued down the hall. "The evidence is there Mr. Odinson, you need only observe. Now if you would follow me please." The Thunderer wanted to resist, but Loki was not well enough to leave yet and he would not abandon his brother again. He only feared that this man would ask a boon too high to pay.
"What is it you want?" the Asgardian asked. Mycroft motioned him to sit down in one of the plastic chairs that lined the room they had just entered. Like the rest of the facility the room was stark white and bare except for the chairs and a singular wooden desk near the far wall. He had not seen much of the building and only knew it was underground because they had driven down an incline. Obviously they would spare the luxury of expensive furniture in lieu of cheaper materials, but even Thor was surprised at the lack of human touch. There was no warmth, no character and nothing to kindle the hope of the people that found themselves buried in this place beneath the snow-covered streets of London. The Asgardian's thoughts were interrupted by the mortal's annoying habit of tapping his umbrella.
"I merely require information Mr. Odinson," Mycroft answered as he took a seat at the desk. "There is a certain man who has been causing problems for the Holmes family for too long and I wish to apprehend him. Justice if you please." Thor did not believe him. There was something about this mortal, a hidden darkness, that Loki did not even possess.
"Information," Thor repeated after a moment. "A scouting mission then and nothing more?" He wished his younger brother was with him. Mind games had never been his strength and Loki always loved a good battle of wits.
"The doctors informed me that Mr. Laufeyson would be well enough for light work by tomorrow morning. I would expect such work for your brother to be easy after his mind games he plays on others. James Moriarty is not to be underestimated, but the God of Lies has his name for a reason." Thor sighed when he realized there would be no way for him to decline Mycroft's offer.
"Very well," he conceded.
Amariel crept along the corridor unseen. It was not the first time she was thankful for the magical gifts that the Valar had bestowed upon her. Mycroft was a powerful man, but she would never be intimidated by him nor let harm come to those she loved and that included Loki. The moment she was informed about Loki and Thor's return to Midgard she had left the Colony to come rescue them from Sherlock's overbearing brother. There was always a price to pay for any kindness from the man and he would have gods who owed him. A sky without limits.
The door to Loki's room was shut but unlocked. Even though she knew where the medical ward was, she merely followed the trickster's magical signature. Amariel trusted her spy, but it did not mean that Mycroft had not hidden the Norse Gods somewhere else. Inside the room was dark, filled with a steady beeping from the machines that recorded Loki's stats.
"I wish I could have found you first," the elven princess whispered as she pulled his I.V. from the back of his hand. Loki's eyes cracked open enough for her to notice that they were dilated.
"Thor," he croaked. Amariel held out a cup filled with water that she had grabbed from the bedside table. The god took it in his weak hands while she helped him to sit up enough so he could drink without choking.
"I'm afraid he is still with Mycroft. I have Thomas waiting for him at his assigned room," Amariel explained. Loki swallowed the water gratefully before reclining back in bed. He looked worse than she was expecting, but Thomas could not tell her much before she was rushing to the compound. The trickster's skin was pale and covered in fading bruises that appeared to be hand prints and his sunken green eyes were dimmed and lifeless.
"Is he usually so accommodating?" Amariel laughed lightly before placing a gentle kiss on his forehead. At least he was in good spirits if he was able to make a snide comment.
"Mycroft can be difficult and he loves his secrets. Unfortunately what he believes is right is not always the best course of action. He truly thinks that what he has done here will be good for everyone, though that is proving to be false." Loki nodded his head slowly before motioning for more water. The elf held out the cup to him and waited until he had drunk his fill before placing it back on the side table. Already his skin was gaining colour and his eyes were brighter. Mycroft must have used some sort of magical inhibitor in the I.V. along with the pain suppressants.
"How is Cicely?"
"She missed you terribly but her magic has improved beyond even my expectations. She is a natural at healing spells." Loki laughed. Amariel smiled and patted his hand before sitting on the edge of his bed. She could feel that there was something still bothering the Asgardian prince, a weight that still had yet to be lifted.
"You can tell my anything," Amariel urged the young god. "Do not lock yourself away like last time."
"They decided execution," Loki whispered. "If it weren't for Thor I would not even be here and while Mycroft can be troublesome, at least I am still alive." A man willing to execute his own son? She had lived for thousands upon thousands of years and she would never become accustomed to such atrocities. They were, unfortunately, not uncommon.
"You are a part of the Colony now so consider yourself a permanent guest of the Sindarin Elves. If Cicely has her way than you'll be granted a ceremony to become one with the Mirkwood clan, which is ours." Loki's smile was radiant even as he sat in bed surrounded by medical equipment.
"It would be a honor. Thank you." Amariel placed her hand on the side of the trickster's face and chanted. A moment later her hand emitted a soft silver glow that engulfed most of the Asgardian. He glowed faintly before she pulled away.
"I restored what I could, but you will still be fairly weak." Loki sat up and slid his legs over the side of the bed. He wobbled as he stood but Amariel grabbed his hand to steady him. "Your magic is still mostly gone, but in a few hours you should be able to cast easy spells."
"I do not deserve such kindness," Loki spoke softly. "The destruction I brought down upon Midgard---"
"Was not completely your fault. You must forgive yourself Loki or your inner demons will slowly poison you," the elven princess interrupted. "It may be hard to believe, but Legolas and I both have a dark past we would rather forget, but we do not. Just as we survived so shall you." Loki remained silent but she could tell that he had taken in her words and that perhaps he had finally listened enough to believe. There was always hope.
"Perhaps we should make our way to Thor's room. I won't be able to teleport myself let alone you and my brother, but Mjölnir can help with that." Amariel had just wrapped Loki's arm around her shoulder when Thomas appeared in the doorway without the Thunder God. He was out of breath, grey eyes wide and his mop of curly blonde hair was covered in white dust.
"Your Highness," he bowed. "There has been an explosion near the Belgrave Road entrance. The compound is under attack by a small group of Chitauri believed to belong to Moriarty." Amariel helped Loki to the door before addressing the half-elf.
"Where is Thor?"
"I waited as you instructed but he has yet to show. It will be hard to find him in the chaos." Beside her Loki chuckled. Thomas's eyes landed on the trickster next to her before sliding back to her.
"Finding my oaf of a brother will not be difficult," Loki smirked. He closed his eyes and Amariel watched transfixed as green tendrils extended from his left hand and shot down the corridor. In his weakened state such magic should not have been possible, but he was a Norse God and perhaps she had underestimated him.
"How many casualties?" Amariel turned her attention back to Thomas. The young half-elf merely shrugged his shoulders.
"Mycroft has already shielded those numbers from everyone except the higher officials in the organization. The speed with which he works is truly frightening. But if they found this compound then the Colony is at risk too." The princess touched Thomas's shoulder and allowed some of her magic to seep out of her hand. Not a moment later his expression had eased some and his breathing leveled.
"Unlike Mycroft's organization, the Colony is protected by ancient magic and elves that will die to keep their loved ones safe. We share a bond that these people will never understand."
"She is right," Loki interjected. "And Thor is but a few corridors away. He is trying to find me."
"Which direction?" Thomas asked. Loki told him which way to go while Amariel kept a steady hand on the trickster's back. His magic was still faint and with his attention fixed on finding Thor she was able to give him more of her own. If he overexerted himself now there was still a chance for physical damage. Amariel was so focused on her task that she did not realize that Thomas was gone and that she was under the intense gaze of one Norse God.
"Not many people can surprise me," his laugh was deep but strained. "I see you have the spirit of trickery yourself." Amariel smiled and shook her head. Of course Loki would see it as some sort of deceit when all she was trying to do was help him. What kind of life had he led in Asgard that any form of help would be seen as some sort of trick?
"Where is my brother?" Thor's voice boomed in the corridor. Both Loki and Amariel sighed at the same time. At least the explosion gave them cover to escape. Thomas once again peeked his head into the room and motioned for them to follow him. Outside Thor held Mjölnir ready to defend but their section of the compound appeared empty.
"Thor," Loki greeted his brother and placed his pale hand on the thunder god's cheek. "Do not give those coordinates to anyone." The golden prince nodded his head and held out his arms for the others to take hold of. Amariel looked between the two, her face blank but her mind was whirling. She had spent so little time with Loki and while she had the gift of magic it seemed that the trickster's was endless.
"It must work like our bonds," Thomas spoke.
"I admit it is easier for me to work magic on Thor than those I am not intimately familiar. His body is use to my signature and thus does not fight it."
"Outstanding," Amariel breathed. "Is it something that Cicely and I can learn?" Loki nodded his head.
"If her magic has developed that quickly, then it should be relatively simple."
"I don't mean to be rude, but if we don't leave now we may not leave at all," Thomas reminded them. A phone beeping brought everyone's attention to Amariel. It was her emergency line, the number of which was privy only to two people.
"Amariel," she answered briskly.
"The Colony has been breached," a gentle male voice spoke steadily. "Moriarty staged an explosion there and at Mycroft's compound." The elf sucked in a breath even as her eyes met Loki's direct gaze. Compromised.
"On our way now. Keep an eye on Thomas, he'll be needed here," Amariel cut the call short. The half-elf looked like he wanted to protest but he could not blow his cover yet.
"The moment we are secured here I will follow," Thomas bowed his head and then was gone.
"Who---" Loki began but Amariel shook her head.
"I'll explain later." She grabbed onto Thor's outstretched hand and Loki did the same. "We have a home to save." Thor swung his hammer and in no time they had taken flight toward the Colony. Along the way Amariel could see the ruins that London had become since the first wave of invasions. Smoke lazily drifted from the burnt buildings that lined the empty streets while other structures crumbled from old explosions, their infrastructure collapsing in on itself.
"Amariel," Loki's strained voice caught her attention. She looked to him first before he nodded his head toward the east where she knew Battersea was. The Battersea power station was surrounded by hundreds of armed soldiers from both Earth and the outer galaxies. She knew about the other species but her knowledge was incomplete and certainly lacking in the important facts, such as their weaknesses. They were grossly unprepared for such a circumstance but they would not give up so easily.
"Can you teleport us directly inside?" she asked over the roar of the wind.
"Do I have a choice?" he tried to smile, but Amariel could hear the strain in his voice. She knew that his energy was low for magical use, but it would be nearly impossible to get through the army currently occupying their front porch.
"I can channel as much as my own energy that you need. Thor can you get us as close as possible without their scouts spotting us?" The golden prince nodded his head before detouring toward the west side of the building which appeared to have the least number of soldiers. Their landing was smooth and the moment that their feet met concrete they were gone in a cloud of green.
"Amariel!" Legolas called as the three appeared in the Holmes's sitting room. Loki collapsed but Thor had his arms around his brother before he could hit the ground. He was bleeding steadily from his nose as his breathing stuttered.
"Get Cicely," she begged her husband. "He is very weak."
"Loki," Thor gently shook his unconscious brother. "Did you hear? Your Cicely is here for you." The trickster remained unresponsive even as the Thunder God placed him on the black leather sofa. Just as Amariel placed her hand on his forehead she could hear feet hurrying down the main stairs.
"Loki," Cicely exclaimed as she entered the room followed by a somber Legolas. Amariel stood to give her room as she collapsed next to the sofa. "I'm here."
"He has drained his energy reserves to get us here. The army has not yet breached the outer walls?" the she-elf asked.
"There is damage but they have not broken through. Beleg is up there along with Duncan to monitor their progress. Should anything happen they have a small battalion of the best warriors," Legolas answered. Amariel sighed and kissed him gently before returning her attention back to Cicely and Loki. The god did not appear as pale and his nose bleed had stopped. The young woman was currently wiping his face with a wet flannel even as she whispered to him. A knock at the opened door startled the elf and she looked up to see Sherlock peeking into the room.
"It seems like someone is not happy with you," he smirked as he held out a small earpiece. Behind him John laughed and pushed the taller man aside.
"I don't even know if that chap could get angry," the army doctor smiled gently. Amariel took the earpiece from the detective and the moment it was secured in her ear a male voice filled her head.
"That was very rude earlier. I had no idea what your plan was." Amariel laughed as she sat down in Sherlock's favorite wing-backed chair by the cold fireplace.
"To be fair I really did not have an actual plan. Thomas is secured?"
"He is fine. Bond is actually with him at the moment." Unfortunately that did not make her feel particularly good. The field agent was a hazard that took too many chances that could end up with a trail of bloody bodies.
"What are you thinking?"
"I'm not and that's the problem. It was all James's idea and it wasn't terrible and we really can't be picky at the moment." There was something that he wasn't telling her because he always had a plan despite the circumstances he found himself and MI6 in.
"Where are you?" When no answer was forthcoming Amariel felt her heartbeat quicken. "Q!" At her outburst the room around her quieted. Legolas and Sherlock appeared on either side of her, the elf prince’s hand on her left shoulder and the detective's fierce gaze upon her face. It was her duty to keep their family line safe and if anything had happened to the young genius then the guilt would tear her apart.
"I am terribly sorry to have worried you Amariel," Q's voice did not come through the earpiece but from the open doorway.
"I'm not," Bond smiled from next to his Quartermaster.
"Charming," Sherlock bit out before the elf prince could cuff him in the head.
"I am sorry but what is going on?" Thor questioned from his spot near Loki. The trickster was still unconscious though Cicely had given him some colour back to his skin.
"A family reunion of sorts," Cicely commented. "Q is a Holmes."
"That's classified!" Q exclaimed.
"Oh," John murmured. "Sherlock told me---"
"Not now," the detective interrupted the army doctor.
"Everyone knows my name," Bond mentioned quietly but Q only glared at him.
"QUIET!" Amariel yelled. "I can't think with all the squabbling between you all." She rubbed her temples to try and soothe the headache that had started. There was an invading army right outside their home, a madman out for vengeance against the Holmes family and now the remaining Holmeses were all together under one roof, it was enough to cause a major migraine. Cicely stood from her place next to Loki and rested her right hand atop Amariel's head. A moment later a warm sensation swept through her body soothing the pain away.
"Loki taught me that one," she smiled. "For when we overexert ourselves."
"How is he?" Thor asked.
"Sleeping for the moment though his power is greatly diminished," Cicely combed her fingers through his dark hair as John brought over a chair for her to use. Loki took up the whole sofa leaving his feet dangling over the edge and no room to spare for his beloved.
"Perhaps James you would like to join Beleg and Duncan?" Q nudged the agent. The blonde man grunted but acquiesced to the request, though not before dragging John along with him. Sherlock pouted.
"You should be with Molly," Amariel glared at the detective. Sherlock merely stared at her a moment before he too retreated from the room. Legolas moved to stand near Cicely and Loki while Thor took a seat on the ground in front of the sofa. Q took his spot next to Amariel before removing his glasses to clean them with one of the extra flannels lying about.
"If I may be so bold to point out, our odds are not looking very hopeful," the young genius sighed. "Though that has yet to stop us Holmeses or heaven forbid, James. He's going to give me grey hair before I reach thirty."
"We must do something," Thor insisted. "Even if it is just fighting." Amariel chuckled before she could stop herself. Loki had told her hundreds of stories about his and Thor's childhood and how the thunder god tended to resort to violence as the answer to most problems.
"Can we not hold out here?" Cicely asked.
"I'm not sure how much our magic can hold out against Moriarty and his army. I fear that in the end it will come down to war and we have lost so much already," Legolas sighed wearily.
"When the time comes we have our second colony out in the country where we can send the children, they will not turn them away," Amariel spoke absently.
"Well we'll have time to figure out a more detailed plan," Q interrupted. "James just informed me that Moriarty has left." Amariel stood so quickly that Legolas had to grab the chair before it fell backwards.
"He wouldn't leave suddenly, not when he was close to getting through the barrier," she mumbled as she paced the room. "Something happened. What would stop him?"
"Not a what, but a who," Loki's voice was so faint that only the elves had heard him.
"What do you mean by who?" Legolas asked.
"He shouldn't be awake let alone answering questions," Cicely admonished him. She whispered something into the frost giant's ear but he shook his head. Amariel knew he had to rest more and that his magic would take longer to come back if he was not careful, but they needed to know what he knew.
"We'll take him to his room right after he tells us who could actually instill fear in someone like Moriarty," Amariel promised. Cicely huffed but stood up to help Loki into a sitting position.
"Thanos must have followed my energy signature to Earth, he is the one being who could put fear in every creature. In that case Moriarty would flee to ensure his own life and to fortify his holdings. The chitauri he uses for his army come with a price and Thanos takes what is his."
"What do you owe him brother?" Thor asked quietly.
"My life," Loki murmured.
fandom: too many
rating: teen
pairing: Cicely/Loki, Amariel/Legolas, Molly/Sherlock
warnings: none?
summary: I don't want to give it away
a/n: I must admit I started this probably a year ago and it's not a completely done story line, but it works where I ended it. It is also my longest publish piece of writing with 6,871 words. I hope it flows alright even with my hiatus. I dedicate this to florencia7 who keeps me writing. I hope you enjoy this. Lately all the stress has really put a damper on my muse but I have wanted to get this up here for a very long time so I forced myself to finish it because I needed to accomplish and finish something for once.
I hope this doesn't blow up in my face.lol.
all mistakes are mine...and there are probably a few---million.
BURIED
A tapping on his cell door broke Loki out of his reverie. Only one person on Asgard would even think that knocking would be a good idea. Thor. His brother had not come to see him for a few weeks and his sudden appearance peeked his interest. Perhaps the Allfather had changed his mind, unlikely, or mother had intervened somehow with Thor's help, which was also improbable.
“Loki,” Thor whispered. “Your punishment has been decided.” The trickster knew this day was coming and after eight long months in the dank cell waiting he felt some of the weight lift from his shoulders. Even with the possibility of execution, which was highly unlikely, his hope could not be broken because nothing could compare to his time spent among the Chitauri. His only regret would be leaving Cicely behind without saying goodbye if the worst were to happen.
“Tell me brother what the council has decided,” Loki spoke calmly. He kept his breathing steady though his heart kept skipping beats while he waited for Thor to end his silent suffering.
“Execution,” the Thunder God murmured. For a moment Loki heard nothing but the sound of water dripping ceaselessly in the dark corners of his prison. The possibility had crossed his mind but he had never honestly believed that Odin would take his life as payment for deeds done against his will. Of course, only Cicely knew from his own mouth about what had actually happened during his time with Thanos and the Chitauri. He suspected that Thor too had thought that he had been under some sort of spell but only because he did not want to believe that his brother was capable of such destruction. That he was a monster.
“I will not let them have you,” Thor wrapped his arms around his younger brother. Loki blinked then looked to see that the door to his cell was indeed open and that Thor was actually with him.
“The word of the Allfather is written in stone Thor. There is nothing you can do.” Loki had learned that fact the hard way. Death had never frightened him but now there was another factor to include in his equations, Cicely. Sentiment was a dangerous thing.
"I never planned to change father's mind, brother," Thor whispered. Loki could not hope to believe in a lifetime a situation where the golden son of Asgard would defy their king and especially not for the outcast. His brother had truly grown during his time on Midgard.
"Pray tell Thor what your plans entail." He was heavily guarded unless Thor was there and only because Odin commanded that they have privacy while the princes spent time together. It was a miracle that no one had come the moment the Thunder God had entered the cell, but perhaps there were no enchantments or his brother had suddenly become a master of magic.
"First I will remove your bindings," Thor reached for his arms and gently held his wrists while he worked on the cuffs that dampened his natural magic. The moment he was free Loki could feel the surge in his veins and his hands glowed a faint green before his wrists began to heal from where the bands had rubbed them raw. It was a relief to feel his body working properly since his healing magic had become instinctual.
"This won't change the past Thor," Loki warned. "Odin---"
"Has done too much damage. I understand." Ragnorak was coming if Thor was agreeing with him. Perhaps something had happened during the three weeks that the golden prince had been gone or maybe someone had knocked some sense into him. There were enough secrets within their family to fill a thousand page book and while he loved Frigga like a mother he would never again look upon Odin as his father or Asgard as his true home. He had no home.
"We must hurry before the guards come back," Thor urged as he grabbed Loki's arm.
"You must stay here Thor, this is where you belong." The Thunder God's frown deepened as he realized what Loki planned. How the trickster wished that Thor could not read him so easily but he was tired and beaten. The magic had healed his physical wounds but not the psychological ones. He was essentially saying his goodbyes to what had been his life for over a thousand years.
"I will not abandon you Loki so do not ask it of me. We were raised brothers and we shall die brothers. There is nothing that I would change about you, not even your Jotun heritage. I love you because you are my brother and you shall remain so." Loki felt like laughing but kept a blank face. He was not the god of lies for nothing.
"You would defy the Allfather to help me escape? You have responsibilities Thor and mother would be devastated. You are the beloved son not I."
"Must you twist everything? We love you!" Loki did laugh then and Thor shrank back. Sweet, naive Thor could not fathom a world where nothing went the way he planned. He never had to live in a shadow of someone else's greatness or be ridiculed for his differences.
"I am to die Thor. Do not pretend to think that the Allfather does not agree with the council's decision because his word was the final vote. Do not forget that it was him who took my children from me. Nari and Valli were innocent." Thor dropped his head into his hands and took a deep breath. His shoulders sagged and Mjölnir sat untouched near his feet. Loki felt a tiny jolt to his chest but brushed it aside. Sentiment was a characteristic of the losing side.
"I was blind and full of arrogance. Father was wrong to take your sons and if I could I would change history but I hold no such power. I will spend the rest of my life trying to fix the wrongs done to you Loki, but you must be willing to accept that." The trickster closed his eyes and sighed. Deep down he knew Thor was right. Cicely had told him he could not hold on to all the anger but sometimes it was easier to hate than risk losing those he loved. He still dreamed about his little boys chasing one another through the palace halls, their laughter echoing through the golden rooms. Their mother, Sigyn, had drank poison but a few days after their abduction and was buried without so much as a ceremony. She had been his wife, his princess and his light. Extinguished. It was time to let go of the madness trying to consume him. Thor deserved at least that. Cicely deserved so much more than a broken shell of a man living in the past. Time would eventually heal his wounds and he had an abundance of time. Perhaps he could learn to accept himself.
"I hope you have a place in mind," Loki smirked when Thor's head snapped up. "Because I am giving you complete control over this pathetic attempt at rescue." The golden prince stood and held his hand out to his younger brother, Mjölnir held tightly again in his right hand. Loki allowed him to help him to stand and together they left his prison.
The corridors leading to the top floors of the palace were suspiciously empty but Thor appeared at ease so Loki figured it was part of the plan. He was beginning to believe that perhaps their mother had a role in his escape because Thor tended to hit first and think later. This amount of planning was usually left to him when they were on their journeys and any time they found themselves among the enemy.
"Do you need anything from your quarters?" Thor's whisper was for once quiet.
"Nothing that I cannot summon later. We should keep moving and try to make it to the forest we used to visit when we were younger. I still need to build up my magic before I even think of teleporting us to a different realm." Thor nodded and peeked around a corner. The lack of people in the living areas was disconcerting but the Thunder God reassured him that it was meal time. For the past three weeks his brother had been observing the routine of the guards and palace servants to pick the most opportune moment to rescue him. Loki was actually speechless.
"Do not think I ignored your instructions Loki. It may seem like I do not heed your words but they always make an impression on me." If it had not been for the fact that the man next to him was carrying Mjölnir, he would have thought Thor was some sort of imposter. He was not the only one good at hiding his true self.
"You always seemed more focused on the weapons and technique than the actual planning needed to carry out those orders." Thor chuckled lightly before turning to face Loki and placing his warm hand against his neck. It was second nature to them.
"Because I knew you would always be there. It never once crossed my mind that you would not be there by my side during battle, but in New York that was shattered. I would have you fight by my side again."
"Perhaps one day that will happen Thor, but I have to forgive myself before I can forgive others." The golden prince frowned and rested his head against the younger man's.
"You are worth the wait Loki," Thor murmured before pulling the trickster into his embrace. "Never doubt that you are loved." Loki allowed Thor's scent of ozone mixed with earth to calm and comfort him before pulling away from the warmth. It amazed him that the thought that he was possibly adopted never once crossed his mind when him and Thor were so completely different. Where Thor burned brightly Loki was cool to the touch and held a dark mystery about him like a cloak. One favored brute force while the other spent hours upon hours buried deep in ancient tomes. Their younger years they spent together and were hardly separate from one another, but once they reached their late adolescent years everything began to change. Odin had planted a seed between them that would continue to grow until there was nothing but competition between the brothers. Two princes borne to rule but only one throne. Loki never stood a chance.
"We are almost to safety," Loki smiled though his lips turned down at the edges.
The door by the kitchens that led into the spice garden was opened and unoccupied. Thor led the way followed closely by Loki. It almost felt like their little adventures they had when children and they sneaked out to watch the stars. Oh how he wished he could go back to those times but too much had happened. There was only so much that he could erase from his memories and some things were unforgivable.
"We can rest for a few days before traveling to Midgard," Thor explained once they had made it past the palace walls and into the back fields. They were free for the moment and Loki could not help the relief that flooded his body and he collapsed to the ground. His brother was beside him instantly but the trickster shook him off.
"Just merely relieved," Loki reassured him. After taking a few moments he stood and leaned on Thor before they took off once more. They were not completely safe yet but the woods were not far away and they knew exactly where to hide.
"We will not be able to seek help from the Avengers, but there is New Mexico," the thunder god spoke. "Lady Jane must be in Norway still and we could use her old trailer." Loki shook his head.
"Need to get back to Cicely," he answered Thor's unasked question. "The Chitauri have damaged much of London and I have promised to return to her no matter the cost." Thor bent his head down in thought before silently agreeing with Loki.
"Then let us make our way to our old dwelling and rest before taking leave of Asgard. We may not have more than tonight before the guards or the Warriors Three find us." Loki nodded his head and allowed Thor to help him along the path that only they knew.
The woods were silent and the creatures uneasy. Thor kept watch at the door of their small hut they had made years earlier. Behind him Loki slept fitfully on a bed made from animal skins he had found in an old chest. He needed the strength to perform magic but nightmares plagued him even now with his brother standing as protector. Chitauri hands groped for him in the endless dark, their leathery skin cold to the touch and unwelcome. There was no escape and Thor would not come for him, not now when he had been violated. The golden prince would never touch something with such filth. His screams were silent even as he fought the tears away.
"Loki," Thor shook him gently. There was an urgency behind that tone his brother was using. The trickster woke with a start and almost punched Thor in the face but the Thunder God held his arm gently before releasing it to rest in his lap. His nightmares always left him empty and skittish. "Someone is outside. We must make a move now or it may be too late."
"Guards?" Loki asked quietly. His brother nodded his head.
"And perhaps Hogun. He was always the best tracker besides you." The god of lies smiled gently before moving to stand. Teleportation spells used a great deal of energy but they had no choice. Even if they could slip by the palace guard, Hogun was a skilled warrior and one of Thor's friends.
"Then we must leave now Thor. Grab a hold of my arm and do not let go." His brother did as was told, his grip leaving fingerprints upon his weakened form. A week. In a week he would have his full powers restored and his health back. Just as Loki closed his eyes to concentrate on a point of location Thor shouted his name and he felt a burning sensation in his side as they disappeared in a cloud of green. Once again he found himself peering at the roots of Yggradsil though there was something different. Where the tree was usually a vibrant shade of brown it was now shriveled and faded. Poisoned. Loki tried to reach out his own magic but before the tendrils could touch the roots they landed hard on the streets of London. A snow covered London from the cold wetness he could feel on his face and exposed hands. Beside him Thor grunted in pain before moving to crouch over him.
"Loki?" His brother should not have sounded so far away and everything was darkening around the edges. He knew that London had been without electricity, but it had to be daylight still. The trickster made to sit up but he fell back with a silent scream. He placed his hand against his side, where the pain flared from, only to have it covered in his blood. The throbbing that had been manageable came back full force. He had been so focused on his magic that his senses of the physical world had faded.
"Thor," his voice cracked. He could feel his brother's presence but he was fading fast. "Hogun's knife pierced you just as we disappeared. It is a deep wound brother," Thor's voice wavered.
"Then it is fortunate that I have found you," a voice spoke from behind them. Loki knew that voice and sighed in relief. The man could be dangerous but he would not allow harm to come to his niece's lover.
"Mycroft," the god of lies smirked despite the blood dripping past his lips. He could hear the soft thump of the bigger man's umbrella against the pavement before the faint smell of tobacco and brandy filled his nose.
"A pleasure as usual Mr. Laufeyson," Mycroft droned. He knew how much Loki detested that name and never failed to use it excessively.
"Please," Thor interrupted the light banter. "He needs healers." Mycroft's gaze left Loki's face only to settle on that of his older brother's.
"Do not worry Mr. Odinson, Mr. Laufeyson shall be well taken care of, I can assure you." Before either of the Asgardians knew what was happening, Loki was lifted by a few men dressed completely in black and placed into a waiting black car at the corner of the street. Thor stood quickly but Mycroft shook his head gently.
"Where are you taking him?"
"If you would follow me," Mycroft motioned toward a much sleeker car behind Thor. "We have much to discuss while your brother receives treatment." The Thunder God sighed and slid into the car before Mycroft joined him.
Loki could not remember falling asleep but he awoke in a bright white room. For a brief moment he had panicked before a doctor appeared and injected him with a clear liquid. He tried to fight but his body refused to respond to his mental commands.
"It is to help you to relax," the doctor smiled. "You'll be in pain for a few hours." Loki fought the sleep that was trying to take him under, but his wearied body needed the rest. His eyes were just about to close when he noticed a shadow standing in the open doorway and moved his head to see it better. Mycroft stared at him, his face as usual, was a blank mask. Behind him stood Thor, his body relaxed but his expression was pinched. Loki wanted to comment but his eyes drifted closed against his will.
"He does not like to be drugged," Thor informed the man in front of him.
"Unfortunately we hardly ever get our way, Mr. Odinson. Your brother needs to rest to gain strength and you and I shall have a little chat." The blond Asgardian made to enter Loki's room, but Mycroft's raised umbrella hindered any movement pass the door frame. "Later."
"Are you always so cold?" Mycroft's answering smile was anything but friendly.
"Emotions cloud judgment God of Thunder. Perhaps you can talk to your brother about his." Thor held back his anger and allowed the heavier man to lead him away. The corridors in this section of the underground building were cold and sterile, but he expected nothing else for the healing ward that belonged to this man. Mycroft would not disclose their location, but Thor understood his reasoning even if he did not like all the secrets that these people kept.
"What did the doctors say about his condition?" Thor asked just to break the heavy silence that had fallen. It seemed that wherever Mycroft went the others would disappear and the lack of interaction kept the Asgardian from relaxing. This man was not someone to be crossed.
"His healing magic took care of most of the wound after we got the bleeding to stop. His magic was bound was it not?" Thor stopped even as Mycroft continued down the hall. "The evidence is there Mr. Odinson, you need only observe. Now if you would follow me please." The Thunderer wanted to resist, but Loki was not well enough to leave yet and he would not abandon his brother again. He only feared that this man would ask a boon too high to pay.
"What is it you want?" the Asgardian asked. Mycroft motioned him to sit down in one of the plastic chairs that lined the room they had just entered. Like the rest of the facility the room was stark white and bare except for the chairs and a singular wooden desk near the far wall. He had not seen much of the building and only knew it was underground because they had driven down an incline. Obviously they would spare the luxury of expensive furniture in lieu of cheaper materials, but even Thor was surprised at the lack of human touch. There was no warmth, no character and nothing to kindle the hope of the people that found themselves buried in this place beneath the snow-covered streets of London. The Asgardian's thoughts were interrupted by the mortal's annoying habit of tapping his umbrella.
"I merely require information Mr. Odinson," Mycroft answered as he took a seat at the desk. "There is a certain man who has been causing problems for the Holmes family for too long and I wish to apprehend him. Justice if you please." Thor did not believe him. There was something about this mortal, a hidden darkness, that Loki did not even possess.
"Information," Thor repeated after a moment. "A scouting mission then and nothing more?" He wished his younger brother was with him. Mind games had never been his strength and Loki always loved a good battle of wits.
"The doctors informed me that Mr. Laufeyson would be well enough for light work by tomorrow morning. I would expect such work for your brother to be easy after his mind games he plays on others. James Moriarty is not to be underestimated, but the God of Lies has his name for a reason." Thor sighed when he realized there would be no way for him to decline Mycroft's offer.
"Very well," he conceded.
Amariel crept along the corridor unseen. It was not the first time she was thankful for the magical gifts that the Valar had bestowed upon her. Mycroft was a powerful man, but she would never be intimidated by him nor let harm come to those she loved and that included Loki. The moment she was informed about Loki and Thor's return to Midgard she had left the Colony to come rescue them from Sherlock's overbearing brother. There was always a price to pay for any kindness from the man and he would have gods who owed him. A sky without limits.
The door to Loki's room was shut but unlocked. Even though she knew where the medical ward was, she merely followed the trickster's magical signature. Amariel trusted her spy, but it did not mean that Mycroft had not hidden the Norse Gods somewhere else. Inside the room was dark, filled with a steady beeping from the machines that recorded Loki's stats.
"I wish I could have found you first," the elven princess whispered as she pulled his I.V. from the back of his hand. Loki's eyes cracked open enough for her to notice that they were dilated.
"Thor," he croaked. Amariel held out a cup filled with water that she had grabbed from the bedside table. The god took it in his weak hands while she helped him to sit up enough so he could drink without choking.
"I'm afraid he is still with Mycroft. I have Thomas waiting for him at his assigned room," Amariel explained. Loki swallowed the water gratefully before reclining back in bed. He looked worse than she was expecting, but Thomas could not tell her much before she was rushing to the compound. The trickster's skin was pale and covered in fading bruises that appeared to be hand prints and his sunken green eyes were dimmed and lifeless.
"Is he usually so accommodating?" Amariel laughed lightly before placing a gentle kiss on his forehead. At least he was in good spirits if he was able to make a snide comment.
"Mycroft can be difficult and he loves his secrets. Unfortunately what he believes is right is not always the best course of action. He truly thinks that what he has done here will be good for everyone, though that is proving to be false." Loki nodded his head slowly before motioning for more water. The elf held out the cup to him and waited until he had drunk his fill before placing it back on the side table. Already his skin was gaining colour and his eyes were brighter. Mycroft must have used some sort of magical inhibitor in the I.V. along with the pain suppressants.
"How is Cicely?"
"She missed you terribly but her magic has improved beyond even my expectations. She is a natural at healing spells." Loki laughed. Amariel smiled and patted his hand before sitting on the edge of his bed. She could feel that there was something still bothering the Asgardian prince, a weight that still had yet to be lifted.
"You can tell my anything," Amariel urged the young god. "Do not lock yourself away like last time."
"They decided execution," Loki whispered. "If it weren't for Thor I would not even be here and while Mycroft can be troublesome, at least I am still alive." A man willing to execute his own son? She had lived for thousands upon thousands of years and she would never become accustomed to such atrocities. They were, unfortunately, not uncommon.
"You are a part of the Colony now so consider yourself a permanent guest of the Sindarin Elves. If Cicely has her way than you'll be granted a ceremony to become one with the Mirkwood clan, which is ours." Loki's smile was radiant even as he sat in bed surrounded by medical equipment.
"It would be a honor. Thank you." Amariel placed her hand on the side of the trickster's face and chanted. A moment later her hand emitted a soft silver glow that engulfed most of the Asgardian. He glowed faintly before she pulled away.
"I restored what I could, but you will still be fairly weak." Loki sat up and slid his legs over the side of the bed. He wobbled as he stood but Amariel grabbed his hand to steady him. "Your magic is still mostly gone, but in a few hours you should be able to cast easy spells."
"I do not deserve such kindness," Loki spoke softly. "The destruction I brought down upon Midgard---"
"Was not completely your fault. You must forgive yourself Loki or your inner demons will slowly poison you," the elven princess interrupted. "It may be hard to believe, but Legolas and I both have a dark past we would rather forget, but we do not. Just as we survived so shall you." Loki remained silent but she could tell that he had taken in her words and that perhaps he had finally listened enough to believe. There was always hope.
"Perhaps we should make our way to Thor's room. I won't be able to teleport myself let alone you and my brother, but Mjölnir can help with that." Amariel had just wrapped Loki's arm around her shoulder when Thomas appeared in the doorway without the Thunder God. He was out of breath, grey eyes wide and his mop of curly blonde hair was covered in white dust.
"Your Highness," he bowed. "There has been an explosion near the Belgrave Road entrance. The compound is under attack by a small group of Chitauri believed to belong to Moriarty." Amariel helped Loki to the door before addressing the half-elf.
"Where is Thor?"
"I waited as you instructed but he has yet to show. It will be hard to find him in the chaos." Beside her Loki chuckled. Thomas's eyes landed on the trickster next to her before sliding back to her.
"Finding my oaf of a brother will not be difficult," Loki smirked. He closed his eyes and Amariel watched transfixed as green tendrils extended from his left hand and shot down the corridor. In his weakened state such magic should not have been possible, but he was a Norse God and perhaps she had underestimated him.
"How many casualties?" Amariel turned her attention back to Thomas. The young half-elf merely shrugged his shoulders.
"Mycroft has already shielded those numbers from everyone except the higher officials in the organization. The speed with which he works is truly frightening. But if they found this compound then the Colony is at risk too." The princess touched Thomas's shoulder and allowed some of her magic to seep out of her hand. Not a moment later his expression had eased some and his breathing leveled.
"Unlike Mycroft's organization, the Colony is protected by ancient magic and elves that will die to keep their loved ones safe. We share a bond that these people will never understand."
"She is right," Loki interjected. "And Thor is but a few corridors away. He is trying to find me."
"Which direction?" Thomas asked. Loki told him which way to go while Amariel kept a steady hand on the trickster's back. His magic was still faint and with his attention fixed on finding Thor she was able to give him more of her own. If he overexerted himself now there was still a chance for physical damage. Amariel was so focused on her task that she did not realize that Thomas was gone and that she was under the intense gaze of one Norse God.
"Not many people can surprise me," his laugh was deep but strained. "I see you have the spirit of trickery yourself." Amariel smiled and shook her head. Of course Loki would see it as some sort of deceit when all she was trying to do was help him. What kind of life had he led in Asgard that any form of help would be seen as some sort of trick?
"Where is my brother?" Thor's voice boomed in the corridor. Both Loki and Amariel sighed at the same time. At least the explosion gave them cover to escape. Thomas once again peeked his head into the room and motioned for them to follow him. Outside Thor held Mjölnir ready to defend but their section of the compound appeared empty.
"Thor," Loki greeted his brother and placed his pale hand on the thunder god's cheek. "Do not give those coordinates to anyone." The golden prince nodded his head and held out his arms for the others to take hold of. Amariel looked between the two, her face blank but her mind was whirling. She had spent so little time with Loki and while she had the gift of magic it seemed that the trickster's was endless.
"It must work like our bonds," Thomas spoke.
"I admit it is easier for me to work magic on Thor than those I am not intimately familiar. His body is use to my signature and thus does not fight it."
"Outstanding," Amariel breathed. "Is it something that Cicely and I can learn?" Loki nodded his head.
"If her magic has developed that quickly, then it should be relatively simple."
"I don't mean to be rude, but if we don't leave now we may not leave at all," Thomas reminded them. A phone beeping brought everyone's attention to Amariel. It was her emergency line, the number of which was privy only to two people.
"Amariel," she answered briskly.
"The Colony has been breached," a gentle male voice spoke steadily. "Moriarty staged an explosion there and at Mycroft's compound." The elf sucked in a breath even as her eyes met Loki's direct gaze. Compromised.
"On our way now. Keep an eye on Thomas, he'll be needed here," Amariel cut the call short. The half-elf looked like he wanted to protest but he could not blow his cover yet.
"The moment we are secured here I will follow," Thomas bowed his head and then was gone.
"Who---" Loki began but Amariel shook her head.
"I'll explain later." She grabbed onto Thor's outstretched hand and Loki did the same. "We have a home to save." Thor swung his hammer and in no time they had taken flight toward the Colony. Along the way Amariel could see the ruins that London had become since the first wave of invasions. Smoke lazily drifted from the burnt buildings that lined the empty streets while other structures crumbled from old explosions, their infrastructure collapsing in on itself.
"Amariel," Loki's strained voice caught her attention. She looked to him first before he nodded his head toward the east where she knew Battersea was. The Battersea power station was surrounded by hundreds of armed soldiers from both Earth and the outer galaxies. She knew about the other species but her knowledge was incomplete and certainly lacking in the important facts, such as their weaknesses. They were grossly unprepared for such a circumstance but they would not give up so easily.
"Can you teleport us directly inside?" she asked over the roar of the wind.
"Do I have a choice?" he tried to smile, but Amariel could hear the strain in his voice. She knew that his energy was low for magical use, but it would be nearly impossible to get through the army currently occupying their front porch.
"I can channel as much as my own energy that you need. Thor can you get us as close as possible without their scouts spotting us?" The golden prince nodded his head before detouring toward the west side of the building which appeared to have the least number of soldiers. Their landing was smooth and the moment that their feet met concrete they were gone in a cloud of green.
"Amariel!" Legolas called as the three appeared in the Holmes's sitting room. Loki collapsed but Thor had his arms around his brother before he could hit the ground. He was bleeding steadily from his nose as his breathing stuttered.
"Get Cicely," she begged her husband. "He is very weak."
"Loki," Thor gently shook his unconscious brother. "Did you hear? Your Cicely is here for you." The trickster remained unresponsive even as the Thunder God placed him on the black leather sofa. Just as Amariel placed her hand on his forehead she could hear feet hurrying down the main stairs.
"Loki," Cicely exclaimed as she entered the room followed by a somber Legolas. Amariel stood to give her room as she collapsed next to the sofa. "I'm here."
"He has drained his energy reserves to get us here. The army has not yet breached the outer walls?" the she-elf asked.
"There is damage but they have not broken through. Beleg is up there along with Duncan to monitor their progress. Should anything happen they have a small battalion of the best warriors," Legolas answered. Amariel sighed and kissed him gently before returning her attention back to Cicely and Loki. The god did not appear as pale and his nose bleed had stopped. The young woman was currently wiping his face with a wet flannel even as she whispered to him. A knock at the opened door startled the elf and she looked up to see Sherlock peeking into the room.
"It seems like someone is not happy with you," he smirked as he held out a small earpiece. Behind him John laughed and pushed the taller man aside.
"I don't even know if that chap could get angry," the army doctor smiled gently. Amariel took the earpiece from the detective and the moment it was secured in her ear a male voice filled her head.
"That was very rude earlier. I had no idea what your plan was." Amariel laughed as she sat down in Sherlock's favorite wing-backed chair by the cold fireplace.
"To be fair I really did not have an actual plan. Thomas is secured?"
"He is fine. Bond is actually with him at the moment." Unfortunately that did not make her feel particularly good. The field agent was a hazard that took too many chances that could end up with a trail of bloody bodies.
"What are you thinking?"
"I'm not and that's the problem. It was all James's idea and it wasn't terrible and we really can't be picky at the moment." There was something that he wasn't telling her because he always had a plan despite the circumstances he found himself and MI6 in.
"Where are you?" When no answer was forthcoming Amariel felt her heartbeat quicken. "Q!" At her outburst the room around her quieted. Legolas and Sherlock appeared on either side of her, the elf prince’s hand on her left shoulder and the detective's fierce gaze upon her face. It was her duty to keep their family line safe and if anything had happened to the young genius then the guilt would tear her apart.
"I am terribly sorry to have worried you Amariel," Q's voice did not come through the earpiece but from the open doorway.
"I'm not," Bond smiled from next to his Quartermaster.
"Charming," Sherlock bit out before the elf prince could cuff him in the head.
"I am sorry but what is going on?" Thor questioned from his spot near Loki. The trickster was still unconscious though Cicely had given him some colour back to his skin.
"A family reunion of sorts," Cicely commented. "Q is a Holmes."
"That's classified!" Q exclaimed.
"Oh," John murmured. "Sherlock told me---"
"Not now," the detective interrupted the army doctor.
"Everyone knows my name," Bond mentioned quietly but Q only glared at him.
"QUIET!" Amariel yelled. "I can't think with all the squabbling between you all." She rubbed her temples to try and soothe the headache that had started. There was an invading army right outside their home, a madman out for vengeance against the Holmes family and now the remaining Holmeses were all together under one roof, it was enough to cause a major migraine. Cicely stood from her place next to Loki and rested her right hand atop Amariel's head. A moment later a warm sensation swept through her body soothing the pain away.
"Loki taught me that one," she smiled. "For when we overexert ourselves."
"How is he?" Thor asked.
"Sleeping for the moment though his power is greatly diminished," Cicely combed her fingers through his dark hair as John brought over a chair for her to use. Loki took up the whole sofa leaving his feet dangling over the edge and no room to spare for his beloved.
"Perhaps James you would like to join Beleg and Duncan?" Q nudged the agent. The blonde man grunted but acquiesced to the request, though not before dragging John along with him. Sherlock pouted.
"You should be with Molly," Amariel glared at the detective. Sherlock merely stared at her a moment before he too retreated from the room. Legolas moved to stand near Cicely and Loki while Thor took a seat on the ground in front of the sofa. Q took his spot next to Amariel before removing his glasses to clean them with one of the extra flannels lying about.
"If I may be so bold to point out, our odds are not looking very hopeful," the young genius sighed. "Though that has yet to stop us Holmeses or heaven forbid, James. He's going to give me grey hair before I reach thirty."
"We must do something," Thor insisted. "Even if it is just fighting." Amariel chuckled before she could stop herself. Loki had told her hundreds of stories about his and Thor's childhood and how the thunder god tended to resort to violence as the answer to most problems.
"Can we not hold out here?" Cicely asked.
"I'm not sure how much our magic can hold out against Moriarty and his army. I fear that in the end it will come down to war and we have lost so much already," Legolas sighed wearily.
"When the time comes we have our second colony out in the country where we can send the children, they will not turn them away," Amariel spoke absently.
"Well we'll have time to figure out a more detailed plan," Q interrupted. "James just informed me that Moriarty has left." Amariel stood so quickly that Legolas had to grab the chair before it fell backwards.
"He wouldn't leave suddenly, not when he was close to getting through the barrier," she mumbled as she paced the room. "Something happened. What would stop him?"
"Not a what, but a who," Loki's voice was so faint that only the elves had heard him.
"What do you mean by who?" Legolas asked.
"He shouldn't be awake let alone answering questions," Cicely admonished him. She whispered something into the frost giant's ear but he shook his head. Amariel knew he had to rest more and that his magic would take longer to come back if he was not careful, but they needed to know what he knew.
"We'll take him to his room right after he tells us who could actually instill fear in someone like Moriarty," Amariel promised. Cicely huffed but stood up to help Loki into a sitting position.
"Thanos must have followed my energy signature to Earth, he is the one being who could put fear in every creature. In that case Moriarty would flee to ensure his own life and to fortify his holdings. The chitauri he uses for his army come with a price and Thanos takes what is his."
"What do you owe him brother?" Thor asked quietly.
"My life," Loki murmured.