"How can I ever forgive you?" Months have passed since the Scorpion became a star in the sky. New York is still mending itself after the Avengers' monumental battle, and a lonely god is imprisoned in a faraway kingdom, hoping for death or freedom. Whichever comes first. But someone has arisen from the depths of the earth. While Loki awaits his long-overdue death, Astrid comes to terms with her second chance at life and defends her beloved world from countless new dangers. But cheating death has its drawbacks, and an unfamiliar threat is chasing her down in the form of a monster. Trouble is brewing in the spaces between the stars. Perilous emotions are coming to light. And when it comes to Loki and Astrid, the feelings they share for one another may be their ultimate downfall. No one can be trusted. The world hangs in the balance. The game of life and death has begun. Second in the Dark Star Chronicles. [extended synopsis inside] [dark world > winter soldier] [!major slowburn!]

"I wish I could feel nothing again." Astrid Louvelle, an impressive thief, has never cared about consequences. But when the only life she has ever known falls apart, Astrid is forced to brave this new one alone, hopeless, and terrified to confront her wicked past. Loki Laufeyson, God of Mischief, has never understood the appeal of Earth. In fact, he hates it. But when a chance encounter forces him to accept help from a young woman with a terrible attitude, he discovers a new magic he never thought possible. The problem? She annoys him immensely. Two lonely souls from opposite worlds will collide, fight, and strike a reluctant truce while Astrid learns to control her strange magic under Loki's tutelage. But as a mission from her past turns into a wild goose chase, Astrid is faced with the hardest quest of all: making amends. First in the Dark Star Chronicles. [extended synopsis inside] [pre-thor > avengers] [!major slowburn!] 10K: 06/06/21