Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 6:48:02 GMT -7
Of course, Sigyn did not agree to the suggestion that she actually shared his opinion about the people frequenting the ball. But she didn't disagree either. If she said it out loudly, it could be held against her, after all. Sigyn just smiled mischievously and looked at her hands for a second.
They were calmly walking, when Loki explained why he had summoned her. Sigyn's heart began to race so fast, she slowly put her hand over it, as if that faint touch would slow it down again. There was no particular reason why she got upset. At least, she couldn't point it out right now. Anxiety? Yes, most likely. Excitement? Kind of. But there was also anger. In many ways, she was stubborn. Even though being patient and fighting most battles on he rinside, she was not as thoughtful as Loki, planning and scheming most things so that she'd be equipped with the best kinds of reactions to people's actions. And right now, his words irritated her. She knew how to contain her temper for now. But she could not just let him say that and comply.
After all, they had left the ball and come to the gardens in order to speak truthfully. Did the non-disclosure of particular feelings count as a lie? If so, she'd be guilty as charged. "So, you wanted to meet me, because I occured different to you and you like to....do whatever it is you like to do with me, because I am different? Not determining a particular outcome of this acquaintance, but assuming that something will happen? How is that any different from other men wanting a woman, because she is beautiful or a fitting, delicate lady? Either way, it makes her a trophy. It makes me a trophy. Shown off, because you think I'm worthy being shown off. Pardon me, my lord. That is courting me for all the wrong reasons." Of course, Sigyn was jumping at many wrong conclusions here. He had not said he wanted to court her. He had hinted at it, maybe, but she might just be getting him utterly wrong. Moreover, hadn't he just told her that she seemed to be worth getting to know her? But already planning on any development was just putting Sigyn off. In fact, she got defensive, because she was scared that once she opened up, she'd be rejected. This had happened so often. Her mother had never accepted her for who she was. She had just accepted her to be a doll she could shape according to her liking.
Sigyn hugged herself. Suddenly, she felt very cold. Her heart was still beating. She didn't know what to make of this. Why someone would pick a trophy wife did not matter to her. Whether it was beauty or the lack there of. She just did not want to be anyone's decoration, like a nice coat or a strong stallion.
"I have always had these interests a true lady would not choose. My father was always very laid back about me. Sometimes, I believe he wanted a son. My mother, on the other hand, does not quite agree on the decisions I make. There is a lot of compromise in my life.", she hurried to explain. If not for the wine and his former words, that had unsettled her, made her nervous even, she would have thought twice about disclosing this much. It was too late now, wasn't it? By now, Sigyn put much effort in not looking at him. Maybe, her plan to make him dislike her would have been the better way to go. But she could not have known that ceasing to do that would lead to his proposal. Well, the proposal she thought he had made.
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 11:45:34 GMT -7
Now that they were speaking freely, Loki began to enjoy himself again, though in a different way than he had when they had been seated in the hall. Then, they had been playing a game of his design, trading gazes and lies. Now, they were beginning to relate to each other. Yet once he explained why he had summoned her, the mood shifted. He felt the atmosphere between them tense even before Sigyn began to speak. Perhaps it was the way she covered her heart. Whatever it was, he winced slightly as she began her tirade.
He had spoken of her beauty, yes. That had been a factor in his choosing her to spend the evening with. Was he to be faulted for that? If so, perhaps he deserved it. Perhaps it was vain. Still, what did the reason matter? He had chosen her; she should have felt complimented, not offended, as he thought she was.
And what was this about him doing things to her? He had stated that he wanted to talk. That was all. He had imagined other, more… elaborate activities, but he was certain he had not said anything to that effect. That would have been foolish. But perhaps she had seen those thoughts as she had seen through him when they had been indoors. Was it such a crime, to want her? Again, he thought she should have been flattered, to have won such attentions from him, Prince Loki of Asgard. It was no easy task, and the fact that she had done so in so short a time was to be commended.
Yet she also mentioned courtship, a word Loki had never uttered. She was thinking ahead of things, wasn't she? But she was blaming him for doing the same. That seemed strange to Loki. Then again, women were strange creatures. Even he, with his incredible intellect, had to wonder at times whether he would ever understand them.
"I assume nothing, my lady. I have merely expressed a general interest in getting to know you. I know not where this would lead. I have my hopes, but I do not wish to force those upon you. I would not court you if you did not wish to be courted. It is simply that we seem to understand each other well, and it would be a shame to let go of that after just one ball, just one night."
He glanced at his hands for a moment. "Since we are speaking in confidence… there is much my family does not understand about me. To have met someone who is able, and perhaps willing, to see past that is…. valuable. That is my only motive, my lady. I would ask no more of you."
That was a little bit of a lie, since he was also motivated by his want for her, but for the moment, that was secondary. His goal was to mend the conversation, keep from pushing her away, and seeing what might happen in the future. He could plan for that later.
The temperature outside had not changed as far as Loki could tell, but now Sigyn seemed to be cold. He detached his cape and laid it over her shoulders, if she allowed him to do so. The gesture itself, and the look in his eyes that accompanied it, made up the question for permission. She could accept or decline the offer as she wished.
She did go on to answer his question about her interests. He smiled softly, hoping to show that he understood. There was compromise in his life as well, the sort that came of him telling lies and making deals to please everyone. It was a delicate art, a balancing act.
He noticed that she was going to great lengths not to look at him. Even when he turned to look at her, she avoided his gaze. She was still upset, then. Well, so was he. She had taken his words and twisted them, sought a meaning in them that they had barely held. Then she had charged him with falseness. There was no use in getting angry about it, though; both of them angry at each other would only have led to more problems, and that was not what he wanted to recall when he looked back on this night.
"A lady should learn all she can about the world and choose her own place in it. Perhaps you are the true lady." He spoke simply, not meaning to overcompliment her, simply stating his opinion. It was the type of opinion he did not share often; it was based on his own experiences as a second son. If he let his identity be defined by his birth, what did that make him?
But he was meant to be focusing on her right now, not his own problems; so he continued to walk alongside her, hoping to catch her eyes again if only for a moment.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 12:03:54 GMT -7
Being utterly caught up in her habit to defend herself - against her mother, that was - Sigyn was about to open her mouth and object again. Somehow, the mood of the ball still overshadowed the situation: Men and women meeting, almost agreeing on marriage on the spot on some occasions, without even knowing the other.
And maybe, Sigyn had jumped at the conlcusion that he had done just the same. Of course, technically, there was nothing wrong with being attracted to someone, because they were beautiful, was there? She just didn't like it to be the only thing about another person, about attraction, about being drewn in. And boy, she was drawn to him.
He had had her summoned. He had not made the effort to get up and talk to her, he had sent minions to do the job, all the while sitting in his chair at Odin's table, executing power, power that was his right by birth. She knew that. She knew it was the way things worked, yet it vexed her. It vexed her, because she didn't mind and she wanted to mind. It was so confusing. But even though their meeting had started off as the exact hierachy they were situated in, he was not putting up a fight, throwing his title at her and fighting back. And that stunned her.
Also, she suddenly felt like the biggest idiot dwelling among the nine realms. Here she was, accompanied by a man that was actually quite sweet and charming, being a prick, because of his standing and the situation. Sigyn realized, it was not him being one-dimensional and shallow, but it was her. And she hadn't even realized it.
She needed a moment to gather herself and in that moment, Loki put that cape around her shoulders. This was the moment she finally looked at him again. With her arms crossed, she held the heavy fabric around her own body, that seemed to be quite small in it. "I, urm,-", she started. She knew she had to apologize for the tantrum she had thrown at him, yet words did not come easily. "Forgive me, my lord, it's the wine and.......I was just very uncomfortable in there and it got the best of me. I think I just want to avoid putting myself into a situation that I don't want to be in, without even realizing it. I did not do you justice, you've been nothing but sweet to me."
She dared to look at him from the side. Maybe, it was related to their ages as well. Loki had already been a man while she had still been a child, a girl. And he had been raised a prince of Asgard. If life had turned out to be quite complicated for her, because of her standing, it must have been twice as hard for someone that was part of Asgard's royalty.
It was Sigyn who stopped and turned to look at him. She smiled, but it was a smile laced with guilt. "I did not expect to meet someone of your standing that is as.....stricken as me." The moment she had said that, she choked, covered her face with her hand and sighed, "By the allfather, do not let my mother hear my words. I am going to be locked in for a century. Well, she is going to try to keep me confined for a century."
"I just....want to be me, I guess?", she admitted, pulling the cape tighter around her body. Sigyn cleared her throat and straightened up. Enough of this wimpy, pathetic act. He barely knew her. And she was not exactly someone that'd break down. The miseries in her life would not go away if she cried about it. And her mother had never accepted tears about pain she did not understand to begin with. "Again, I apologize for losing my temper and I'd very much like to see you again."
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 13:46:02 GMT -7
There was never any reason to rush headfirst into things. Loki had told Thor that many times, but his brash older brother had never quite learned. Loki was the rational one, who thought things through before he did them. It had saved him from trouble in the past, and it worked again with Sigyn. He could have allowed himself to be angry, but instead he kept calm and let her speak. He defended himself carefully, so as not to push her further.
He draped his cape over her, and she accepted it, wrapping herself in well. He liked the way she looked in that shade of green, how the big cape seemed to envelope her. She looked up again, which gave him confidence that they would sort out this matter.
"It is understandable." He spoke warmly and gave her another soft smile. All this smiling and laughing - what was happening to him tonight? It was not as though he did neither; he could be as pleasant as anyone when he chose to be. But he had expected to spend the ball with a fake smile forced into place.
Sigyn was different, he thought once again, no matter how she reacted to the allegation. Her looks set her apart, of course. And she was not interested in being any man's trophy, not even a prince's. But there was something else, something buried within her personality, that just… brought out the best in him. He could not tell what it was.
"Your mother will hear nothing of this from me," he reassured her, still smiling - but that smile disappeared when she made her next admission. I just want to be me. The sentiment felt so familiar. He, too, wanted only to be himself. But somehow, he had not figured out just who that self was. Had she decided who she wanted to be? He was curious, but did not know how to ask.
"I would like that. For you to be yourself." He glanced at her again. As he had told her, he was eager to know the real her, even if that meant he had to be just a little open as well. "And I will try to be myself as well."
She apologized again, and said something that brought yet another smile to his face. They would see each other again. "I accept your apology, and extend my own in return." He stopped walking to look at her directly. "I would be most pleased to see you again."
They were at a bit of a crossroads now. Loki glanced back at the ball, which seemed so far away now in terms of both distance and time. It would continue into the early hours, with much feasting and lighthearted festivities, and he would be expected to stay, but he had long planned to slip out early, and deal with any punishment later. He did not know what Sigyn's plans were or had been, but he would follow whatever she chose to do at this moment.
"We could return to the ball, if you wished to retire early," he offered. "Or we could remain out here and talk."
There was a stone bench nearby, if either of them wanted to sit. He was more inclined to talk with her, about anything and everything. But it was up to her; now that he knew this was not the last he would see of her, he felt better about letting her leave.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 13:54:59 GMT -7
It sounded so promising. Someone to talk to without having to disguise her true thoughts. But he was a prince of Asgard, wasn't this tricky business? What if she insulted his pride without even being aware of it? And then, all these secret pacts and oaths of tonight would lose their validation and become futile. Maybe.
They'd figure it out. Sigyn would figure it out. The wine made her gloomy, a bit. And she felt comfortable. Of course, she was still in the process of admitting this, especially to herself, but with the coat around her and the moonlight on their faces, she actually felt content and she....did not want to take her leave just now. It smells like him. How odd., she thought.
"I have no desire to return to the ball. You don't either, I think?" It was one thing to go back, because he had to. But after what he had just told her, there was no way he craved to go back in there. Unless he was hungry or thirsty. In either case, he could just as well have a servant bring him whatever he needed.
Her gaze fell upon the bench, carved from stone by Asgard's finest craftsmen. Her mother sure knew how to make their home pretty, but Odin's palace put her house to shame. "Would you mind sitting with me for a bit?" If she went home, she'd go back to the same routine. Even though her obvious objections to her mother's lifestly and expectations were not a secret in her home, it was a struggle. And Sigyn was sure after tonight, her mother'd visit her to talk about Loki. Well, Sigyn was prepared for this.
She made her steps towards the bench and sat down, now nearly drowning in his cape. "I must say, despite our secret pact, the fact that you are a son of Odin does make me nervous," Sigyn explained. "Not because I crave to impress you due to your father, just......you're a prince, it's....you could have me sentenced to death if you pleased, you know?"
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 15:00:44 GMT -7
What his parents thought of him being away from their guests for so long, Loki could only guess. In truth, he did not entirely care at the moment. Later he might, but now, he only wanted to be with Sigyn, to talk long into the night and morning. Perhaps Odin and Frigga would understand. It was even likely that they might just be glad he had taken a genuine liking to someone for once.
"No, I don't." Whenever he did return to the ball, it would be only long enough to see Sigyn safely to her family. Then he would slip out again, this time to his room, to read or sleep, but most certainly not to be bothered by anyone. His brother, father, and mother would all look for him, and ask him how he was and how had the ball been, and he would give vague answers about everything. He could see it happening already.
He sat with her, glad for the invitation to do so. He was neither hungry nor thirsty, and wanted no interruptions from servants. He could bid his servants to keep anything they heard to themselves, but he knew servants ran their mouths to each other all the time. That was how rumors and palace intrigue were fueled. No, unless Sigyn wanted for something, he would leave the servants to their tasks.
Sitting there together on the stone bench, she told him about her nervousness. Before she had a chance to explain further, his brows furrowed, and he looked a little confused. But then she referred to his status, and he chuckled a little, It was not the first time someone had made that observation, though it was usually made with regards to the spontaneous and unpredictable Thor.
"It is true, I could," he agreed. "I would be lying if I claimed to never have used my position for my own gain. But you have my word that I will keep your secrets, and you need not fear a betrayal from me."
Granted, some would say Loki's word wasn't worth much. But he meant it now, and he was careful not to promise too much. He was essentially asking her to trust him, which was not something one did with the god of mischief. He used people until their usefulness was done, and felt no remorse for it. She, though, she numbed that tendency in him. He felt no desire or need to hurt or trick her in any way.
He folded his hands, and looked at her. Even the moonlight loved the gentle lines and curves of her face. He wanted to hold that face and kiss it, to wrap her in his arms the way she was wrapped so snugly in his cape. But he had promised to be on his best behavior. The time would come for that, if time found her amenable to it. More than ever, he hoped it would.
"What should we do, when next we meet?" he asked, looking to her to suggest a hobby or a place she liked. It would be easier to meet on her terms, especially if they wanted to keep things quiet for now.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 15:11:18 GMT -7
"I'd kindly ask you not to kill me, my lord," Sigyn said, glancing at him from the side. Of course, she was not serious and that cheeky grin on her face made sure he'd understand. Even though Asgardians were not known for their all around tender hearts and gentle minds, there was no reason for Loki to actually have her sentenced to death. But a little teasing would not insult him, now, would it?
The prince was making his claim with such vehemence, it surprised Sigyn. For a man that was probably used to getting what he pleased, female or whatever it was, he was trying very hard to make her feel comfortable. Why was he not frustrated with her and the fight she put up? There were several women in this hall that would just gladly have him bed them or even go as far as marry him. Although most probably were, not every one of them was chasing Thor.
Her eyes were beaming for a moment. Had they even changed color? Sigyn tightened her fists around the fabric of his cape. She felt that warmth building up inside of her, the wamrth occuring when she was using magic. Loki was known for his sorcery. Maybe he could...no. She could not just ask him to teach her. Not just yet. But he was a master at his craft, so she migth improve if he did so? "Would you like riding out to the lake with me? I like the tranquility lingering around it. It's peaceful.", Sigyn suggested. She was out there a lot, when she needed time and space to think. Plus: It was not as crowded as Asgard's centre was. "I might consider bringing my spear and have you watch me as I fail miserably." It sounded like she was trying to get him to compliment her. In fact, her calves and shins were red and blue from spear-fighting gone wrong.
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 20, 2012 21:19:56 GMT -7
That grin of hers was cute, and Loki could not help grinning back. Even if he was the sort of royal who had people executed left and right, Sigyn was far too special to meet such a fate. "Well, since you asked nicely," he joked right back. It did not occur to him that he might be insulted. It had been a joke, and he would not have been the Trickster of Asgard if he could not appreciate a good joke, even one on him.
Laughing, he looked at her. It was true, there were many women in the hall who would have let Loki do as he wished, when he wished. Most of Thor's followers would probably have done the same, just for the distinction of having slept with a prince. Why did he not simply pick one of them? Perhaps tonight he was in the mood for some self-punishment. They were sitting so close, yet he knew he was worlds away from having her still.
He had accomplished something this night, though. He had begun to win her over. Besides, his goal was not simply to bed her. Ideally, she would be someone he could confide in, someone who would understand. Most ideally, they would be friends and lovers. But, as he had said, he did not want to force her into anything. They would take their time, and see what suited them best.
Quite suddenly, he noticed a change in her. The color of her eyes seemed to have shifted. Was she familiar with magic, or was that a natural occurrence for her? If so, they had even more in common than he had first thought.
Was that what he saw in her? A female, better version of himself? If he did, would he even find that attractive? Something about her had him irrevocably drawn to her. He still could not place what it was. He did not think it had anything to do with himself. No, it was something within her, some quality she possessed that he had not found anywhere else.
She suggested going out to the lake, and he nodded. He could certainly find time to join her there and help her practice. "I'm sure you won't fail," he said, supplying the necessary compliment, unaware that she was speaking from experience. It was natural to believe that the person one was attracted to should be good at everything. He would not be disappointed to find she was not. Perfection would have bored him.
"Yes, I would like that. I am used to being holed up indoors for my practices, so it will be a nice change." He imagined seeing her out at the lake, the wind rustling through her hair as she trained. It was an appealing vision. "I look forward to it."
However, he was still curious about her magic. Picking a large leaf from a hedge behind them, he folded it inwards slightly, such that it looked like a tiny green moth. He reached for her hand again, under his cape, and turned it palm up. On her palm he placed the folded leaf, and covered her hand with his own.
This would drain both of them a bit, though he was using much more of his magic than hers. He only wanted a taste of what she could do. His hand, which at first had been a bit cold, became warmer, and she would feel something tickle her palm. When he slid his hand away, there was a tiny butterfly on her fingers, not green but white as snow. It came to life and flapped its wings lazily.
Even Loki was astonished at what they had done. So far, he had only managed to shapeshift objects once or twice. A little breathless from the attempt, he gave Sigyn a smile and touched one of the butterfly's wings. "We made this," he said softly, his green eyes glittering.
"Do you know magic, then?" he asked. At the very least, there was magic within her. That could not be said of everyone.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 1:01:34 GMT -7
Actually, she had never planned on bringing her spear and show him what she was not able to do. Simply, because she didn't want anyone to see how she failed. It was a natural thing, not being perfect at something that you had just started to learn. Even though she wasn't someone that indulged in showing off, she didn't need to do the opposite: Displaying her weaknesses to people. Little did she know how comfortable she'd soon be around him, showing what she couldn't do. Of course, he put that compliment out there. It was fine, maybe he was just believing in her. Already.
She frowned. Sigyn assumed that he and his brother would be practicing a lot. Thor - given his built - more often than Loki. The god of thunder was the born warrior, very tall, very wide, equipped with a hammer, thirsting for blood. Loki seemed to be more complex than that. Odin's palace having a room for practicing did not strike her as odd, but the outdoors was just so much more appealing. Or so she thought. "You do not practice outside? It's beautiful and very challenging. Especially, when the Asgardian sky chooses to honor us with the rainfall of the millenium!", she explained. More than once had she returned home with her clothes so wet, they stuck to her body like a second skin. But what happened if there were distractions like rain during real battle? You had to know how to deal with it! Not that Sigyn expected to ride into battle anytime soon. Her mother would know how to prevent that.
Sigyn looked at him confusedly, as he picked that leave and folded it. She didn't even think about uniting their hands, unsure what'd happen. Loki was not only older than her, but the greater sorcerer. Sigyn's magic derived from her mother's bloodline only. So, Loki easily drew from her magic. Maybe, she could have prevented it, had she paid enough attention, been more cautious. Her eyes turned fully golden, as warmth accumulated between their hands. Soon, she felt movements on her palm, tiny legs touching her skin. then, a butterfly sat on her fingers, white as snow. It remained on the spot for a moment, but eventually, its wings lifted it up and it flew away. Right on his shoulder. Sigyn's gaze was on the pale, white insect. "I did not ....wow. I did not know I could do this," she gasped. She had not done this by herself, that was for sure. She smiled widely, offering the butterfly her finger. And it took the hint and crawled on her fingertip. "I do. My mother is a sorceress, but she never pursued her craft, pushed herself to her limits. I do not intend to follow in her footsteps. Egil, son of Jarl, is teaching me. Do you know him?" The sorcerer was old and had quite a name. He was very strict, void of any humor, but he was good at his craft.
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 11:22:37 GMT -7
Now that she had suggested bringing the spear, Loki was looking forward to seeing what she could do. Nothing could disappoint him, even if she turned out to be a complete klutz. She had already won him over with her charm, wit, and understanding. Now it was for him to win her over.
He shook his head. He and Thor practiced indoors, or in the courtyard on occasion. But that was not the same as training outside, where there were no walls surrounding them and shielding them from the elements. "Occasionally we traveled just outside the realm for real-world practice, I guess you could say. Most often, we use the indoor training facilities." The rooms were nice, and the sound of weapons clashing against each other reverberating among the walls was inspiring. But being able to practice in the rain sounded much more challenging.
Even as he folded the leaf, he was not sure what he had in mind would work, or come out looking odd. He'd had mishaps before, while he had been learning. He was still trying to perfect this most difficult of his tricks. But with Sigyn's help - perhaps even due to her help - the butterfly came out beautifully. The success brought a smile to his face, one that was almost gleeful. By now, he had forgotten about the ball, forgotten why he was even here. Sigyn had his full attention.
The little bug flew up and perched on his shoulder, then flew back to Sigyn as if on command. "The possibilities of magic are limitless," he told her with a proud smile. That was part of what drew his interest in the craft. With enough training, he was sure he could do anything he imagined. This would give him the advantage over his brother he had always sought. Thor thought of them simply as little "tricks," no matter how often those tricks saved their lives in battle. It was demeaning. He would learn soon, however. He would be shown the power of sorcery.
It made sense that Freia might be a sorceress, though he had never heard it before. That explained the slight faintness of the magic within Sigyn, if she only derived from one half of her parentage. Upon hearing that she was taking lessons from Egil, he nodded again. He had heard the name, and attributed much respect to it. But, of course, he thought he could be a better teacher.
"Indeed, he is known to me, though I have never studied under him. What manner of magic is he teaching you?" Certainly not the dark magics, he supposed. Those were frowned upon to the point of being socially forbidden. Perhaps that was why Loki enjoyed them so much.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 11:37:59 GMT -7
Were Thor and Loki practicing indoors, so they would not be interrupted by their people? She realized that they were kind of famous, but on the other hand, they did not strike her as people that needed a lot of protection. Thor's appearance itself was intimidating. Maybe, it was just one more rule you had to follow, if you were a prince. She didn't even know the full scope of it yet.
But in this moment, the thought of his standing, his father and brother occured strange to her. The way Loki smiled upon seeing the butterfly. Artless and honest. He almost looked like a boy. Alas, they were young, at least, in comparison to so many others. She preferred this look on his face. Much better than the arrogance he had worn back in the great hall. He looked positively beautiful. Sigyn mirrored his smile, the little friend they had just created still sitting on her fingertips. "I'm very excited about exploring it. Yet I'm not sure how much I'll be limited. After all, my father's lineage does not have any sorcerers.", she explained in a whisper, trying to avoid disturbing the butterfly's peacefulness.
"He's trying to encourage the course my magic naturally goes. I'm working on illusions, for the most parts. Telekinesis. It's quite exhausting, but I guess I don't have to tell you that." Of course, the dark arts were forbidden. So she didn't practice them. Besides, going into such elaborate detail would be making the second step before the first was made. "What about you, my lord Loki? You have quite a reputation, they say you,-" Sigyn explained, about to share some street gossip. But then, she realized she should be thinking. "are very skilled." Hopefully, he hadn't noticed.
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 13:52:24 GMT -7
Practicing indoors, or at least within the confines of the palace, had become such a habit to Loki that he never thought much about it. There was probably some overprotectiveness involved. It was safer, as well, which had been a concern in the brothers' younger years. But those years had long since passed, and the habit remained just that, a habit of working inside, not leaving the grounds unless he had to. And he seldom had to, never felt the need to. For what would he have found beyond the gates but more people to mock, underestimate, and bore him?
He was only vaguely aware of the change in himself. She did something to him that stripped away the trickery and dishonesty and heft him bare, himself. He thought it might have been due in part to the temporary tiredness he felt after pulling off the butterfly feat. Yet the smile and the openness remained even as he recovered himself.
She mentioned having limits, and he gave a slight, carefree shrug. "There's only one way to find out," he said with a grin. Of course he was encouraging her, not because he generally encouraged people, because he never went out of his way to do so. He could tell she was a promising student, and she seemed to enjoy magic as well. That sort of passion was a rare find in any field.
The butterfly was between them, and he realized she was keeping her voice down so as not to disturb it. Loki's voice was naturally soft, and he seldom raised it, so the little creature remained unperturbed. He touched his fingertips to hers and watched the butterfly dance across the little bridge to his hand.
He nodded as she explained her lessons. He remembered being exhausted by just the basics of things, and it sounded like her studies were coming along quite well. "No, indeed. I still find many applications of magic quite tiring." Shapeshifting remained a problem for him, especially when he tried to mimic non-mammals. It took more concentration than he could spare at times. He still needed to learn to focus.
The slight pause in her statement did not go unnoticed, but since he could not guess what it was she had been planning to say, he let it be with only a curious raise of his eyebrows. What did they say, indeed? That he practiced black magic? They would have been right, and there would have been no way to stop him. Others may have been reprimanded, but he was a son of Odin. Reprimands from society had no effect on him.
"Do they? It is true, but then I have had many years of practice… in many different styles." The hint could only have been more obvious if he had winked and nudged her as well. What would she think and say? That he should not dabble in the dark arts? If his hobbies drove her away, it would be a shame, but what he did or did not do was ultimately up to him, and he enjoyed that freedom.
"I consider myself one of the best in Asgard, for I have had many teachers, all the best in their chosen specialties. I was lucky to have that." And he would be glad to help her with her lessons as well, but he did not make the offer. It would sound pretentious and presumptuous, he thought, and they were getting along too well now to throw it away on another careless comment.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 14:03:10 GMT -7
She loved his voice. He didn't think he'd have to raise it in order to be recognized or respected. Unlike others, that were loud and obnoxious. Everytime he spoke, it was like a poem, a lullaby. The wine and the mellow mood only contributed to that.
...they say you're the brain and Thor's the brawn., she thought. Well, she was at a crossroads. Being part of the people hearing such gossip, while talking to a member of royalty. Lucky Sigyn, Loki did not pursue finding out what she had meant. He seemed to be such an interesting character, layers and layers, each to be discovered if she so pleased and moreover, if she let him. The speed of this was strange. And even stranger, it felt quite natural. A thing Sigyn would have to ponder once she was by herself, in her room, left with all the impressions he had made on her.
The touch of his fingertips sent a jolt through her fingers that she barely managed to contain. Sigyn blinked more than necessary as she was watching the butterfly take the hint and move. Her gaze found his yet again and she couldn't help but smile. "Practice makes perfect, they say," she whispered. She kept her voice down nonetheless. However, yet another surprise overcame her as he hinted so bluntly at ...the dark arts. That was on his mind, wasn't it? Sigyn's eyes widened. She considered herself a good girl, even if she was not a good lady. From birth on, she had been taught that her magic would be supported, but the dark arts would not be tolerated. Caution and disapproval had been imprinted in her brain. Sigyn was not someone drawn to the forbidden by default, yet it fitted him so well, it was fascinating. So her facial expression showed a weird mix of disapproval and utter curiosity. She leaned in, without even being fully aware of it. "Are you saying, you,-" she asked without finishing her question. Her face told him everything he needed to know, just like he had done before.
Outrageous!
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Loki Laufeyson
Villain Staff
God[M:0]
Why did you choose to lean on a man you knew was falling?
Posts: 357
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Post by Loki Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 23:29:07 GMT -7
Had she continued her original thought, Loki would not have taken offense. He knew he lacked the imposing stature his brother had. No amount of bodybuilding would have gotten him there. So he had focused on his studies, and developed his superior intellect. He could best his brother at anything that required the mind. Unfortunately, that was not the skill their society gave honor to. Asgardians respected the ability to fight, not the ability to outwit.
He nodded. Practice did indeed make perfect. Anything worth one's attention was also worth one's time. Was that not true? It was strange that he should think so, since he had become so accustomed to instant gratification. Perhaps that made him hypocritical. In any case, he simply did what he thought was best in the moment.
In this moment, he was talking to Sigyn. She was interesting, and she seemed interested in him. At least, he had not run her away so far. He had come close. But she hung on, as he did, perhaps drawn by the same inexplicable quality that had him in its pull.
He hinted at his forbidden practices, mostly because he could, and because he wanted to see her reaction. She didn't fully approve. But there was something else there. More interest. She wanted to know more. He would be glad to oblige. After all, he was fairly sure this particular secret of his was not fully a secret. It was the sort of treachery others had come to expect from him.
Instead of answering, he gave her a smile, and flicked his fingers slightly so the butterfly would return to her. "There's a certain… power in knowing the craft. It takes discipline and self-control, which is probably the real reason why our teachers advise against its use." He personally saw no problem with using dark magic, but then again, his morals had always been on the shifty side.
"I've been studying on my own, without the aid of an instructor. It's not difficult, if one has access to the right resources." The palace's library was vast, such that no one was entirely sure what it contained. Loki had made a hobby of digging through old documents. Some had to do with the dark arts, others the history of Asgard, and other topics, some more useful than others.
He looked into her eyes, trying to read her reaction to his words. Would she think less of him now? "I do it for the knowledge, not for any ill intentions," he made sure to explain, so she would not think he was some sort of evil being.
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Sigyn Laufeyson
Neutral
Goddess[M:0]
If by my life or death I can protect you, I will.
Posts: 337
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Post by Sigyn Laufeyson on Jun 21, 2012 23:39:14 GMT -7
Knowledge was power, Sigyn thought. Yes, she had grown up in a society appreciating muscles over mind and part of her cherished that, too. After all, great battles had been won by big men fighting. But she was always craving more. It was like her default setting, a curse and a blessing. The more she learned, the more she wanted to know for the sake of just knowing it. One of the things her mother did not approve of. A lady should be well-educated, but not be too wise. After all, men needed someone to look down to, didn't they? The dark arts scared her, merely because she had been told to be scared for her entire life. The tales about them never included charismatic, sweet princes, but dark lords and spells gone wrong. Maybe, part of the danger, part of the fear had been created by teachers that needed the young to have enough respect and angst to avoid touching the topic.
So yes, she was uneasy about it. Loki was interesting, she did want to meet him again. Trust was a whole other thing. You couldn't built trust in just one evening. So she shifted on that bench and cleared her throat. "Forgive me my lord, but the definition of ill intentions is not a term set in stone. It lies in the eye of the beholder, I suppose?" That didn't mean she expected Loki to plan any bad attack on anyone. But the people of Jotunheim might think that Odin's intentions were bad. The people of Asgard however, cherished them. "I don't know whether I'm scared, but my respect and care about the dark arts is vast. And I don't think I'd be capable of a performance like this. Both magically and personally.", she admitted. He might not like her opinion, though. Oh, how little did she know what their encounter would do to her.
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