Lesedi awakens to a dark new day on Asgard:
Steve?-On Midgard, and according to Heimdall, dealing with his own problems. Missing him was painful, needing him but deciding not to call just made matters worse.
Frigga-resting among the stars after deli...
I dressed and headed out with Steven. I decided that it might be better to make this feel more like a visit than negotiations, not to mention showing trust.
"...Oh, he was very tall and strong and tall, your father was, hardly ever smiled unless your mother was around," Heimdall said over his shoulder to Steven who was riding piggy back. "Then he was completely different."
"Fierce but gentle," I said softly. I glanced at Ingemar, who was concentrating on his footing. He practically demanded to come along. I had to leave the Warriors Three behind. I felt that might be a sign of aggression. I smiled at Sif, and she smiled back. If there was anyone I would almost dare call best friend, it was her.
"Why are we going to the forest?"
"To meet Asgardians who live there," Heimdall answered. "Your mother wanted them to live closer to the city at first, but now she is going to visit, see if they're alright."
Finally we came upon the settlement. It was brimming with life. There were no signs of sickness or hunger, just people working together to thrive. I was relieved to see this. If they were not, they could have easily blamed me.
A group advanced upon us, all smiles. Among the group was a young strong warrior who strode ahead of the others. "Heimdall!" His smile faded when he set his eyes upon me.
Heimdall cleared his throat. "Lady Lesedi--"
His eyes flickered with recognition. "You brought her here?!" His eyes locked with mine and I trembled, squeezing Steven's hand.
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Steven stepped forward, and extended his hand. "I'm Steven. That's my mom."
The man knelt, beginning to smile as they shook hands. "Well, Steven, I am Erik, Erik Feindar. What are your duties today, steward?"
"Play with the children of the forest." He said simply. "Make new friends."
Erik exhaled. "Is that so?"
"The city, the lands, the mountains are all Asgard," I said quickly. "We go where the people are."
"I see," he regarded me and rose to full height. "I am Heimdall's second in command here, so I guess I will see you later." His gaze lingered for a second, making my heart leap, and then turned to Heimdall. "Getting wood, Heimdall. Won't be long." He looked down at Steven. "Nice to meet you, Steven...." he gave a slow nod and half bow. "Milady." And he was gone, leading the small party of men deeper into the forest.
"Alright," Heimdall nodded. He led us on, and we were all quiet for a few minutes. "What do you think of him?"
"Him?" I felt self-conscious.
"Erik?" Ingemar said the name with some malice.
"You don't like him," It wasn't a question.
"All I see is more competition, and in one meeting, he's winning." With that, Ingemar increased speed, striding ahead.
"Ingemar--"
Heimdall let him pass in front of him and waited for me to catch up. His smile was humorous.
"What?"
"I do believe our captain may have competition."
"No one can compete with my husband, Heimdall." I couldn't believe he said such a thing.
"Sometimes it is not about can as it is about should, milady, as old as the conflict between duty and desire, good and evil, love and hate." Seeing my discomfort at his reply, he smiled, "Nothing to worry about, I'm sure."
