Green with Envy

Back on Asgard

"Welcome home my Prince. Your mother and father await you in the throne room."

Thor steps forward and takes the dark skinned mans arm in greeting.

"Heimdall, my friend. What of my brother?"

"Loki has been in his room since his arrival yesterday."

"What was the reason he had to be brought home so suddenly?"

"He was not brought home your majesty, he asked to be escorted home. As a prince of Asgard I could not deny his request. But your father decided he needed an escort, just incase."

Thor looked questionably at the gatekeeper.
"What is he up to.."

"Why don't you ask him, your highness. But first go and greet the king and queen they wish to see you."

Thor nods towards the gatekeeper before propelling his hammer until it lifts him off the ground, guiding him straight towards the golden palace.

When he arrives at the palace , the townspeople and nobles cheered and celebrated the return of the god of thunder.
Thor waved to them and exchanged pleasantries before entering the throne room.

Atop of the golden throne looking out over the magnificent city sat Odin with Gungnir in one hand and the hand of queen Frigga holding the other. Both parents looked happy to see their son return from earth.

"Ah my son, you return sooner than expected. How are things on Midgard?"
Odin stood making his way down the steps to greet his son. Frigga followed beside him.

"All is well father. Mother." Thor hugs his mother and father briefly kissing his mother on the cheek.

"Where is Loki? Why did he ask to return suddenly?"

Odin's good mood suddenly shifted at the mention of Loki.
"We do not know why he asked to return.. I told him a deal was made with Midgard for his service to them, I was about to send him back.. but your mother convinced me to let him stay for the next few days. He will return to Midgard soon."

"I see. I wanted to make sure there was nothing wrong. When he left so suddenly.."

"Just another tantrum. Loki will be back to Carry out his sentence within next few days.' Odin clasps Thor on the shoulder leading him. Towards the hall. "Now my boy, Come. Asgard will want to celebrate your return!"

Thor eyed his mother nervously. He hated to deny his father, and he did want to see his friends.

Envy's words rang through his memory.

"Ugh, actually father, I wish to see Loki first. I will join you both shortly."
He pulls away from Odin and leaves the throne room. Odin looks suspiciously at his son before turning to his queen, who is smiling fondly after him.

"What was all that about?" Odin asks Frigga.
The queen takes his hand in hers and kisses softly before leading him towards the hall.

"I am sure it is nothing sinister dear. Now come along, leave the boys to it."

Thor made his way to his brothers chambers.
As he climbed the endless flights of stairs he smiled to himself. These halls had been he and Loki's place of peace and happiness. They played together.. they fought together. But had Thor been too focused on himself?

He had known after his first meeting with Jane and his visit to Midgard that he had a lot of growing up to do in order to be king. Jane had told him how impulsive and self centred he had been at first.

Maybe Envy was right. Loki may have been crying out for his help for years and he may have been too caught up in his own triumph to notice his brothers sadness..