Chapter 12

Loki pov

The next day Lady Sigyn and I were walking through the palace garden. She was exceptionally irritating today. But I bit my tongue as I continued on our walk.

"Prince Loki, some of the maids have let it slip that the next event will be a horse handling and riding skills test, is that true?" I heard Sigyn ask feing innocence.

"Yes, Lady Sigyn. I enjoy taking afternoon rides to clear my head after my many duties as Prince. I would hope my future wife would accompany me." I replied my mind drifting off to (Y/n) and how comfortable she is around them.

"If it's not too much to ask, may I see your horse?" She bats her eyelashes flirtatiously, smiling sickeningly sweetly. I nodded and began leading the way to the royal stables. 'What is with this woman? Can she not tell I dislike her?' I thought. Sigyn smiled and clasped my hand in hers as we walked to the stables.

I looked down at her, noticing her smile had disappeared. I followed her gaze, a small smile graced my lips, noticing (Y/n) was walking away from the stables. 'No doubt spoiling Romeo and Juliet with treats and attention.' my mind wandered.

'I can't wait for that filthy Midgardian wench to get eliminated. Then nobody will stand in the way of my throne or winning Loki's hand.' I heard Sigyn thinking. I glanced at her disappointed. "Did you say something milady?" I asked her sweetly. She shook her head.

I nodded, as we walked into the opening of the stables. "Here we are Lady Sigyn," I spoke before going to pet Romeo. She followed, when Romeo saw her he began to act nervously trotting in place as if he had seen a snake. Well one who wasn't me.

"Shhh it's ok boy…She won't hurt you" I try to get him to relax. After a few moments he calms down. I look over to tell Sigyn she can pet him but she is gone. Looking around I see her going over to (Y/n)'s horse Juliet.

I cleared my throat gently, "Umm...Lady Sigyn, I must apologize, but Juliet there is off limits," I spoke kindly yet sternly. She turned, giving me a confused look.

"Why would this horse be off-limits? I saw Lady (Y/n) riding it just the other day…" her voice was soft as she broke off then looked down.

'I see how it is Midgardian. You cheat your way into the contest because you know prince Thor. You are obviously talented and can easily defend yourself. Though being from Midgard, you would have to. And you have somehow bewitched the prince into being his favorite earning your own horse and even unique gifts without having to ask.' I stared at her hiding my shocked expression as I heard her thoughts, "I must apologize, Prince Loki; I am to meet with the seamstress to get an outfit ready for the event. " she said curtsying before leaving her last thoughts were. 'Just wait for it Midgard trash; this is the last day on Asgard for you.'

I rolled my eyes, muttering a spell under my breath. The period would curse her to wear only Midgardin clothing while she continued to be on Asgard. 'She will never be my bride; I don't care if Odin struck a deal with her realm. She's a vile despicable woman' I gently rubbed Juliet's nose before leaving the stables to find Mother. She would be able to help; Valhalla knows Odin won't.

Sigyn's pov

Loki was walking me to the stables. I grabbed his hand and interlaced our fingers. 'Maybe he's beginning to like me…' I smile until I see that filthy Midgardian. I saw Loki look at her affectionately. 'I can't wait for that filthy Midgardian wench to get eliminated. Then nobody will stand in the way of my throne or winning Loki's hand.'

"Did you say something milady?" Loki asked kindly. I shook my head. He nodded as we walked to the opening of the stables. "Here we are Lady Sigyn." He walked to a jet black horse. I assumed this was his horse. I followed him. His horse was acting skittish when I got near. "Shh it's ok boy… She won't hurt you," Loki said trying to calm his horse.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw a beautiful white mare. I was walking over to her when Loki said, "Umm… Lady Sigyn, I must apologize, but Juliet there is off limits." I turned, giving him a confused look. "Why would this horse be off-limits? I saw Lady (Y/n) riding it just the other day…"

Then it hits me. 'It's her horse! I see how it is Midgardian. You cheat your way into the contest because you know prince Thor. You are obviously talented and can easily defend yourself. Though being from Midgard, you would have to. And you have somehow bewitched the prince into being his favorite earning your own horse and even unique gifts without having to ask. That's it!'

"I must apologize, Prince Loki; I am to meet with the seamstress to get an outfit ready for the event." I curtsey. 'Just wait for it Midagrdian trash; this is the last day on Asgard for you!' And with that I walked away to talk to Odin. I heard Loki mutter something as I walked away. I didn't think anything of it.

Odin's Pov

I was sitting in the throne room talking to the servants telling them to set up the obstacle course for the horse riding/handling skills event Loki had planned for the maidens. "The jumping hurdles should be placed randomly as this is to be one of the more difficult events." As one of the maids was about to ask how many horses should be prepared for the event we were rudely interrupted by the guards opening the great golden doors.

"Who dares interrupt this meeting unannounced?!" I shouted, only to be met by whom I assumed was Lady Sigyn.

"I am sorry All-father, I mean no disrespect but, I have to talk with you urgently." she spoke glaring at all the servants and maids. I looked her over, confused at her choice of clothing.

"Of course Lady Sigyn…" I cleared my throat and dismissed everyone. I smirked as they quickly scrambled to leave the room. Once it was just the two of us I sat down, nodding for her to speak.

"All-father, I am sure you are aware of Prince Loki's affections towards the Midgardian maiden (Y/n)," Sigyn began, I nodded frowning hoping she wasn't pressing for war. I may be at odds with my adoptive son, especially after he tried to take the throne, and a realm by force, but I wasn't above protecting him as my own.

"Yes I have my dear, I can only hope it is only a phase and he chooses to send her home soon," I said almost bored.

"Do you know that he has given her a horse of her own?" she shot back towards me, my eye widened slightly.

"And you know it's hers how?" I asked her, my grip on my staff tightened, growing furious at Loki.

"Prince Loki, took me to meet the horses after I had mentioned my handmaid let it slip about the next event. In the stables his black horse was skittish around me. I saw the most beautiful white mare." she began explaining looking directly at me with a scowl on her face. "I went to pet the mare and was told it was off limits. Which I thought was strange since I had seen Lady (Y/n) riding it just the other day. I put two and two together and realized it was her horse. I doubted All-father would have given a lowly Midgargian a horse." she finished, waiting for my response.

I thought about the information. I shook my head "Unfortunately my dear Lady Sigyn, I can't just take away the gift Loki has bestowed upon her. But, I can order him to keep his distance, or I will announce the contest over, arranging the marriage between him and you." I said defeated, knowing it wouldn't be an easy task, especially since Loki was even more head strong than Thor.

"Oh, by the way." she began once more, I looked at her and raised an eyebrow.

"I heard Lady (Y/n) tell her friend Lady Natasha she has a tiara, I didn't hear her say she was given it as a gift. I believe she may have stolen it, and is using it to get Loki to be with her." She finished a slight smirk on her face.

"Thank you. I shall look into the matter. Now if that is all I must summon the Prince, we have much to discuss" I said standing as she curtsied before leaving. I didn't ask about her choice in clothing after hearing she had been to the stables, I can only hope she wears more appropriate clothing at the event.

Meanwhile in Frigga's study

Frigga's Pov

My handmaid had just brought me my afternoon tea. I smiled at her, she curtsied as a knock sounded at the door. I wondered who it could be. 'Thor and my husband would just walk in. The maids have been asked to set up the next event. None of the maidens have stepped foot in my study.' I thought, motioning for my personal maid to answer it. I looked over smiling as Loki walked in.

"My son, how kind of you to visit. Would you care to join me for some afternoon tea?" I asked him, after hugging him gently. He nodded then took a seat by the coffee table. I sat next to him, he was so easy to read. "What troubles you my dear?" I heard him sigh, his eyes looking out over the garden.

"Mother, I am lost. I have fallen in love." he softly said, holding his tea cup gently. I smiled nodding.

"That is wonderful Loki, I knew you would find a suitable maiden." I placed my hand gently on his knee. He sighed

"Mother, I can't keep this contest going. I fear if I do I will lose her, but If I don't I could put all of Asgard at risk." I tilted my head confused.

"Which maiden has captured my sweet Loki's heart?" I asked, I had an idea of who it was but I wanted to hear it from him.

"(Y/n), Mother. I have even shown her my Jotun form." he said a small smile forming on his lips at just the mention of her name. "I showed her, and she didn't run or look at me as a monster. She looked at me full of admiration." I smiled at him, then he continued before I could comment. "I also gave her a custom tiara, its engraved '(Y/n) Laufyson', and I bought her a horse. She named her Juliet." I smiled more watching his face light up with pure happiness.

"Then what seems to be the problem my son, It seems you have found your perfect match" I said as he looked down.

"Mother, If I don't choose Lady Sigyn, her realm will declare war against Asgard. Odin has made that clear." I shook my head 'Odin, you will regret making that deal without thinking of the consequences' I thought making sure Loki wouldn't hear.

"Don't fret my son, I will deal with your father. Just be strong. It's almost over and then you can announce your future bride, just remember you have the final say in who stays and who leaves." I reassured him. As we finished our discussion a guard walked in.

"I am sorry for interrupting my queen, but All-father has asked for Loki to come to the throne room… immediately" he bowed then left as quickly, I saw Loki roll his eyes. I stood as he did hugging him softly.

"It will all turn out fine. Just keep your head and your temper" I said softly before watching him leave

Meanwhile back with (Y/n)

(Y/n)'s pov

I had just returned from training with Thor and Natasha, after I had visited Juliet. I walked into my room. 'Something feels different.' I thought.

I looked around my room, nothing seemed out of place..I shrugged momentarily forgetting about my tiara.

I sat on my bed after freshening up. I went to reach for my tiara on the bedside table. All I felt was air where it had been sitting. I screamed for Anastasia.

She came in panting and in shock.

"Y..yes Lady (Y/n)?" She asked, scared.

"Where is my tiara?" I asked her, clearly upset. 'Did Loki change his mind and take it back.' my mind tried to reason with me.

"Last I saw it was on the table by your bed. Right where you always keep it. I have not touched it as promised," she said confidently.

I sat down, tears threatening to fall. Only Loki, Nat, and Anastasia knew about it. And I know Nat wouldn't take from me, Loki loves me and I trust Anastasia… then who?' I thought of the possibilities. Only one person would hate me enough to take it… Sigyn.

"Where is Prince Loki?" I asked Anastasia, standing up with a mission. "He's on his way to the throne room." She responded. I thanked her and ran to find Loki.

"Loki?!" I called out to him just before he turned the corner to the throne room.

"Lady (Y/n), what's wrong my darling?" He asked, seeing my determined expression.

"My tiara has come up missing. Only you, my maid and myself know. Plus I told Natasha last night.. I think Sigyn over heard. " I tried not to let the tears show thinking he would be angry for telling her.

"Shh darling, it will be ok. I shall have the guards search the entire palace." He pulled me close to him, trying to comfort me. "I promise, I will find out who took it." I nodded, letting go.

"Thank you Loki. I knew I could count on you. I don't want to keep you from Odin. Come see me After?" I asked smiling softly, he nodded kissing my head before we went our separate ways.

'I hope if it was Sigyn they kick her out.' I thought to myself when I got back to my room, grabbing Romeo and Juliet to pass the time.

Loki's Pov

As (Y/n) walked away I entered the throne room. I didn't bother bowing or kneeling. "Ah, my son. I don't know how the Midgardians have lasted this long. I'm truly sorry they have. But they are going to be sent home."

"What? Why?" I ask trying to keep my cool. "One of them stole a tiara." I open my mouth to respond but the doors swing open. Sigyn walks in. "King Odin, I found the stolen tiara," Sigyn announces.

"It isn't stolen! It was a gift!" Odin glares at me. "What are you talking about?" I take the tiara from Sigyn. "I gave it to her! The only thief here is Sigyn," I say angrily. "This is my contest. Lady (Y/n) will not be sent home," I growl angrily and walk out.

Normal pov

You were about to get ready for the next event when a knock sounded at your door, "Come in," you called out as you looked through your clothes deciding on (f/c) tank top with black riding pants, boots. Loki entered your room happy yet upset.

"Sigyn and Odin are imbeciles." he commented as you walked up to him.

"Loki, what happened?" You asked softly pulling him over to sit on the bed with you.

Loki sighed taking your hands in his. "Well Odin was disappointed you and Lady Natasha have lasted this long in the contest." he nearly growled when he said Odin's name. You rubbed your thumb against the back of his hand soothingly.

"Well it's not surprising he was disappointed, he hates humans." You smiled, glad to have disappointed Odin.

"That's not all. Sigyn tried to convince him you had stolen the tiara, he would have sent you home or worse to the dungeon." He sighed, "I yelled and told them both you were staying in the contest, until I decide to send you away." He looked into your eyes smiling softly as he gently placed your tiara on your head. "I will never send you away. I love you (Y/n)," he gently cupped your cheek leaning in to kiss you softly. You kiss him back wrapping your arms around his neck, breaking apart after a few moments for air.

"I love you too Loki." You smile looking into his brilliant emerald green eyes. "I hate to kick you out but I need to get ready for the contest," you said, not wanting to part ways. He nodded chuckling before he left to meet the others at the obstacle course.

You quickly changed into your outfit, keeping the tiara on your head proud to wear it. As you rounded a corner Sigyn stopped you.

"What did you do to me filthy Midgardian?" she hissed glaring daggers at you.

"I don't know what you are talking about. As much as I would love to play guessing games, I do not want to be late to the event." you brushed past her, continuing on your way. You noticed she was dressed in earthly clothing, 'Maybe she thinks if she dresses like me then Loki might find her more appealing.' you thought.

You arrived at the obstacle course a maiden walks up to you with a brown horse, the same one you had seen Lady Sif riding. Looking over you notice Loki was holding the reins on Juliet, he cleared his throat. "Ahem, I believe Lady (Y/n) will be using her horse." The maid bowed taking the horse to Lady Sigyn instead. You smiled taking Juliet from Loki as he winked.

Odin greeted everyone, pausing as he looked at Lady Sigyn, "Lady Sigyn, Why are you dressed so irregularly?" he asked confusedly, waiting for an answer. She looked, no, glared as she turned to face you. "She must have cursed me All-Father, no matter what I put on it turns to these filthy Mortal clothes." venum laced each word she spoke.

Odin turned to look at you. "Lady (Y/n) do you care to explain?" Odin demanded. You looked at him utterly confused. "I haven't done anything to her," you spoke, it was soft, you looked down, growing uncomfortable under Odin's harsh glare.

As you shrank back behind the shoulder of your horse Loki chose to speak up. "Father, It was I who casted the spell upon Lady Sigyn. It was supposed to be a harmless joke." Loki walked over to Sigyn. He waved his hand, removing the spell from her. He bowed apologizing once more.

"Now that's settled, Lady Asora, you are first to take the obstacle course."

Asora wasn't bad; she only missed a few of the jumps but she handled her horse extremely well. Angrboða were next. Angrboða was more seasoned, still not as well as you. You smiled at all three ladies as Sigyn and Natasha were next to take the course. Even though Natasha was afraid of the horses she still completed the course quite fast. Sigyn on the other hand couldn't control her horse and fell off several times. You had to stifle your laughter watching her fail at the event. Then it was your turn.

You expertly climbed onto the saddle gripping the reigns. You lean forward patting Juliet's neck whispering to her "Come on girl, let's show them how it's done" you urge her to move and she follows your instructions, jumping the hurdles expertly, running around the different hay stacks and barrels. You smile as the wind blows your hair about your face. You look over at Loki, his smile was bright and full of admiration.

Once the event was over Loki announced the winner to be you. Sigyn crossed her arms, glaring daggers at you. Loki turned to face Sigyn, "Not only have you failed this event, you have accused another contestant of stealing as well as cursing you. I will not allow someone who cannot see truth to be my future wife. Go, pack your things you are eliminated." he spoke harshly to her. She gasped, looked at you then back at Loki.

"You will regret this decision" she scoffed as she left for the palace.

You looked at Loki, finally glad to be rid of Sigyn but at what cost?