Avengers The Captain's Secret Book 2: Waiting for Thor

Part 13: The Plan

LESEDI POV

Erik came up to us with a small smile on his face, pleased that all were siding with me.  "We will investigate the sites we found on the map at dawn." With that, he took my hand and kissed my wedding ring. The symbolism was not missed-it was an act of loyalty for all, but his eyes expressed something else as they rose to mine.

"There is, there is a better way."

All turned to Frode.

"We can go to the Enchanted Chasm."

"Isn't that in Valhalla?" someone asked.

Sounds of wonder and worry came from all who heard this. I felt a little worried. I looked at Heimdall, who took a deep breath. Great, he knew about this? "Heimdall?"

Heimdall shook his head. "Frode--" He turned to answer the crowd. "that is not the only way!"

I kept my eyes locked on his. I didn't care what anyone else said. I was waiting for an answer, a solution. He looked down at me, and I silently pleaded with him to tell me something good.

"It is a place of where magic and reality and collide, especially in the Cave of Time," Frode argued softly. "She should go. Thor has gone before."

"Men have gone mad in those caves."

"But if she is strong and pure of heart, she should survive!" Dado interjected.

Erik looked concerned. "Don't people prepare for such a quest?"

"She has been taught how to use her powers," Kelden shrugged, and then looked at me. "What is truly in her heart tonight will not change."

I felt scared all of a sudden. "I don't understand."

"The Cave of Time shows the past, the present and sometimes even the future," Heimdall explained. "It is not based on what you ask with your tongue, but with your mind and heart--"

"Sound quest for a new queen--"

That got my attention. I turned from Heimdall. "I am not Queen!" I suddenly felt the pain of my own fingers stabbing my palms. I'd had enough. "We don't have time for this. Heimdall, you must send us through the Bifrost Bridge."

Heimdall became very serious. "If we use the bridge, I cannot go with you," Heimdall said slowly. "I must stay so I can bring you back." We locked eyes. He didn't want this. It was why he didn't suggest it, why he was quiet, I could tell. "I am not even sure I can send you."

I realized I might have to go alone. That was why he was so quiet. He was afraid for me.

"I will go with you!" Sif volunteered right away. "I am sure the Three will come--"

I turned to Sif. "No!" A hush came over the crowd. "You and the Three must stay behind--"

"My lady--"

"Protect Asgard, protect my son," I said. "I need a clear mind and heart for what lies ahead. My finest warriors should stay and protect the city. Dado you must stay and protect our forest and borders. Will you need more men?"

Dado was taken aback. "I might--"

"You will have them." I assured. "Can you spare one of your best, though?"

"I'll go," Erik said. The Council members began to protest. "I am going."

"Dalla?"

Her head snapped up and all looked at her. I knew this was going to be a surprise. 

"I will not order you, but if you wish--"

Dalla rose quickly. "I will come."

"Dalla, no!"

"Mother, yes!" Dalla turned to her. "If we are all at risk, and I can do something-anything-then I will do it. I can, can't I, Erik?"

Erik's eyebrows raised, and he smirked. "I have been training her in combat for a year--"

Men rose from their seats in protest and outrage, and I could see Sif almost laughing. This must have brought back memories for her.

"You will see to her?" Haldis asked tearfully. 

"And she to me." I knew this was a vow. I was taking her child, and regardless of Dalla's age, Haldis wanted her cared for.

"Who will chaperone her?" 

I turned to Kelden. I didn't recognize it till this moment, but he cared for Dalla. He looked surprised he spoke up, but stood his ground once he had. 

I heard Erik's voice. "Are you questioning my honor?"

I felt Erik's body turn toward Kelden from behind, and put out my arm to bar him. "I will be there--"

"I will also," Ingemar put in. "I chaperoned you when you were in Jotunheim, no harm came to you."

What a nice half-truth. He protected me because he wanted me for himself. "No harm came to me, and he did protect me from many."

"I think I should go, just the same," Kelden frowned. I raised an eyebrow at him. "Crops are in, and I know a great deal about herbs and such. May be helpful."

Heimdall gave an impressed nod, and shared a smile with me. This was coming together.

"Then we leave tonight," Heimdall announced. "We will go to the Bifrost Bridge at dawn."