Unexpected Reunion

 Surrounded by golden walls and white tapestries Sigyn waited in silence. The spring breeze blew through the open terraces bringing scents of bread and flowers into the open room. Dappled in sunlight she lounged on a daybed with a small book in her hands.

Her light brown hair cascaded behind her drifting gently in the fresh air. Her robes, made of the finest fabrics, were light, shades of white and silver. Around her neck she wore a small satin ribbon of the deepest green.

With her feet up, she turned a worn page. It explained the myths and uses of witchcraft. At that moment, she was absorbed by a passage about Midgard. The people there viewed magic so differently, some welcomed it but didn't know it's true power while others saw it as a curse.

Whenever she read or saw people use their magical abilities it reminded her of Loki. She missed him. Everytime he entered her mind she felt a darkness cloud her thoughts. Mourning him seemed impossible as did moving on.

After Loki died along with Frigga, she found herself utterly alone. Asgard, despite all it's beauty, wasn't her life. Loki had been. Occasionally, she tried to venture into the city, away from the palace but the crowds suffocated her. She found herself longing for a wilder land where she would be able to breathe. Despite her desires, she stayed and even Odin took notice.

Odin in his gentle way had tried to comfort her. At first it was a knowing glance, as they both mourned their loves. After a week or so, he started to talk to her about mundane things, dinner, clothing, upcoming events. Eventually, the conversation turned more serious. He started to trust her with political matters. Once a week they would take a long walk though the palace gardens. He would ask her opinion on various issues, which she would give freely.

In all the time she spent with Odin, she never found friendship there. The King of the realms shouldn't have friends anyway. She was thankful for his company, when it came, but still found herself more comforted in reading.

Quiet footsteps approached her as she turned another page. Assuming it was a servant, she didn't look up, electing to allow her eyes to scan the words before her. It was only when the steps ceased beside her did she cast a glance in the person's direction. To her surprise, standing before her was Odin, wearing a simple brown robe, embroidered with gold.

Carefully, she placed her book on the cushion beside her with a curious look on her face. He had never visited her unannounced before. "All Father?" She questioned while sitting up.

Odin didn't answer, just looked at her with a strange expression on his face.

"Would you care to sit?" She tried again, moving so there was space for him beside her.

The All Father gave a small nod before lowering himself beside her. His white hair was tied partially behind his head, stopping the locks from blocking his face. The usual golden eye patch had been replaced by simple leather. There was something about this version of him, which made her both nervous and sad.

"Can I help you with something?" She could see the turmoil in his face.

"I am tired and alone." He turned his face towards hers. "But, you are here, perhaps we could find comfort..."

Before he could finish Sigyn stood up, her mouth agape. "Odin, I respect you but I am not some concubine. I will not warm your bed...." She felt a momentary flash of anger. "I loved Loki." Her voice softened, "I cannot..."

"I was hoping you'd say that." Odin's voice changed to a whisper, a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. He stood following her movements.