A Tale of Mischief and Mutants part 2

King Helblindi of Jotunheim

—-Sam—-

When Thor breaks down I know it's been a long time building. I don't really understand exactly what triggered his hysterical laughter maybe it's just the fact that Helblindi's voice sounds a bit like Loki's, maybe it's what Helblindi said, maybe it's something as simple as the way Helblindi's siting, or the way he carries himself that reminded Thor of his little brother.

Whatever the case the Jotun king is asking for answers and I don't think he'll be too patient in waiting for them. Before even thinking it through all the way I begin speaking.

"Helblindi Laufeyson, I can explain but I'll need you to let me explain everything fully, some of what I'm going to say may seem
irrelevant, confusing, or just downright unbelievable but I promise you it's all necessary and it's all the truth. I ask that you just hear me, after we will accept whatever decision you make."

The Jotun king takes a moment to maul what I've said over before he nods. I start at the very beginning with Odin finding Loki abandoned in Jotunheim and I work my way through to the present day with Loki missing and abducted by God knows who. Throughout my entire explanation the king remains quiet, he doesn't interrupt me once.

The only reactions he has are in his expressions which range from anger, to sadness, to, if I'm not mistaken, actual understanding of the situation. As I finish I end with my final plea.

"I know my husband has caused you and your people suffering, for what its worth not a day goes by he doesn't regret his actions. Nevertheless we have no real right to ask for your help today after what happened. Considering the severity of what he did we're prepared to leave with no further incident should you choose not to help us, I only beg that you consider helping us if only to benefit your kingdom with the technology we're offering."

Helblindi is silent for a long moment after hearing my explanation. Thor gives me a small and discrete thumbs up telling me he thinks I did a good job with my persuasion and explanation. Finally the giant breaks his silence.

"So... You're saying that the oldest son of Laufey lives? ...That Odin did not slaughter my father's firstborn heir as we believed and instead kept him and raised him alongside his own child? That Loki Odinson isn't of Asgard or even of Vanaheim but of Jotunheim? That by blood Loki is not an Odinson but in fact is a Laufeyson? That the prince of Asgard that killed my father was in fact my brother?"

Thor speaks up now looking a little shaken by something Helblindi has said.

"Yes, that's what we're saying. I know how unbelievable it sounds."

Helblindi shakes his head looking deep in thought.

"No... no, it makes a lot of sense actually. Odin never told him he was of Jotunheim. He was fed hateful views of us his entire upbringing so upon being confronted with the reality of his lineage he went mad, ...what Jotun wouldn't? Thus Loki's attack on Jotunheim is yet another result of Odin's ego. Odin fed him lies about his race his entire life and purposely or not created the perfect scenario in which his stolen son would take out his frustrations on our realm..."

He stops and again seems to think things over carefully before he continues.

"Odin wanted to use him to one day gain control over Jotunheim, how do I know he won't ever come here and usurp my rule if I help you?"

I look at Thor knowing how I can reassure Helblindi Loki has no interest in ruling Jotunheim. It's a risk to tell him I'm Midgardian but I think it would ease Helblindi's worry to know Loki is now tied to Midgard because I don't plan on leaving anytime in the next few millennia. Thor nods slightly to me so I go ahead.

"My husband will not be conquering Jotunheim anytime soon he's got prior commitments in Midgard for the next 4,000 plus years."

Helblindi looks confused for a moment before putting together what I'm insinuating.

"Princess...? ...You're Midgardian! But your lifespan-"

I interrupt but only to answer his question.

"-Is extended by Mjölnir."

I use my magic to make Mjölnir appear in my hand so he can see for himself I'm being 100% truthful. He looks at the weapon in subdued wonder and curiosity a look that somewhat reminds me of Loki when he's learning something new from a book he's reading or film we're watching.

"...The rumors, are they true? Can only the worthy lift Mjölnir? If so you must be a considerably special mortal to be able to lift it."

"They are and... my husband thoug-"

I shake my head catching myself. I can't start thinking like that I have to hold out hope that he's still... my eyes sting with tears at the train of thought I'm starting to head down. 'Stop! Don't even go down that road Samantha!' I correct my Freudian slip caused by my growing feeling of hopelessness as to the possibility of finding my husband alive.

"-thinks so."

He nods.

"This arc reactor... it is an acceptable offer... all you need is a sample of DNA?"

Strange nods and takes this question as he is most knowledgeable about the spell.

"A lock of hair or small sample of blood from his closest living relative works best for the spell."

Helblindi pauses in consideration for a moment before he responds.

"...that would be me."

I'm sure Býleistr would be an equally viable option but I can't blame Helblindi for wanting to protect his little brother. Býleistr was kind of adorable and looked how I'd picture a young Loki looking. Helblindi looks to each member of our group as if searching for any last signs of this being a trick or a trap of some kind but eventually his eyes land on me and his expression softens.

"I accept this arrangement, Asgardians."