Summary: Continuing more into Vey's story into Asgard after crashing one of Malekith's Ark ships in betrayal.
Chapter Warnings: None!
Author’s Note: I wrote this about a year back and started back up around chapter four- I hope you guys enjoy this second chapter!
Chapter Two - An Elf’s Arrival
Vey awoke in a field of green grass and yellow flowers, it was bright and colorful- not like the dark and hazy horizons of Svartalfheim. She blinked the blurriness from her eyes and noticed her body was covered in fresh scars and wounds, laying among dirt and debris of the Ark ship. She sat up; her head immediately started to pound. She groaned with a soft hiss, slamming her fist into the dirt below in frustration. She turned to look behind her- the Ark had crashed. Bits and pieces were scattered about and broken. Unfix-able.
She took a deep breath, soon hugging her knees tight against her chest while refusing to let newfound shameful tears fall. She felt guilty. She felt hopeless. She knew she disappointed Malekith greatly, and now she was paying for the consequences by finding herself stranded in another realm she knew not of. She began to regret ever stepping into the Ark. She was entirely alone. Her hand snaked through the tall grass and weeds for her bow. Once feeling the familiar etchings and handle she grabbed it, only to find it had been slashed in half from the brutal impact. Defeat filled the elf’s eyes, she threw it as far as she could with a raspy screech. She then slammed her hands into her head and cried as hard as she could for the first time in her life.
Finally more stable, she stood. Vey held onto her arms weakly while pondering among the greenery. Too busy being enveloped by her intrusive thoughts, she hardly noticed the brick road her feet stumbled upon. Her eyes followed it down a forestry range; away in the distance was a golden structure glistening in the light of day peeking over the top of the trees. Vey’s brow furrowed, thinking hard in confusion about when Malekith had taught her the history of the Nine Realms and their ministries. She began naming each of them off the top of her head, knowing they were all wrong choices until she reached the most meaningful; Asgard.
“Of course!” Vey muttered to herself then began to follow the road to the capital.
~~~
Vey found herself in the miraculous streets of Asgard. Everything was gold, there were exotic plants and foliage everywhere to be seen, waterfalls were gushing from the sides of many different buildings and some disappeared into a sparkling mist. Her eyes lit up as they darted across the shops and people she passed, however avoiding eye contact once people started to notice her abnormal elf eyes and large pointed ears. She pursed her lips together, knowing she had to blend in before someone noticed. She knew her shapeshifting ability wasn’t exactly up to par so she didn’t bother. Instead, she ducked behind a small cart that was selling cloaks and of the sort. Without hesitation, she snatched one up off the display rack and disappeared down a narrow alleyway, slipping on the fine Asgardian material while pulling the hood up to hide her ears. She followed the dark road down to the opposite end, bringing her to a much larger street and far less crowded, fancier too.
Ahead of her stood the worthy palace in all its glory. It was much larger than when Vey had first seen it back in the forest. She stood in awe at the beautiful golden ridges glistening in the light, wondering why they didn’t have anything like this back at home.
Unfortunately, Svartalfheim was always known for its dark and dusk lands, everlasting poverty, and not much to show off like that of this glittering place. Asgard was magnificently beautiful. Her mind went back to the books she had read on the history of this kingdom’s monarchs, the All-Father, Queen Frigga and their two sons, Thor- God of thunder, and Loki, God of mischief.
Just then, she was nudged aside by a stiff figure, scowling over her shoulder as she stumbled to get a better look at them. To her surprise, it was a large group of Einherjar- the loyal elite warriors that served as an army of Asgard. Vey began to wonder what was the reason for so many of them right here, right now until she noticed something or someone. Walking among the group was Loki, looking exhausted it seemed.
Vey’s eyes gradually widened, never imagining ever being this close to an actual god in her life. She studied his body language and facial expression as he walked closer. Vey narrowed her eyes, everything seemed to be moving in slow motion when the two abruptly made eye contact.
Loki’s expression altered from a fatigued scowl to powerful bewilderment within seconds the longer he had observed Vey. She gasped her heart in her throat and was unable to breathe as he requested the Einherjar to a brisk halt. Dark elves were known for their poisonous treachery and corruption throughout the nine realms, hardly ever to be trusted anywhere outside their homeland. For any of the monarchs to find one, you better have a quick tongue or die trying.
The prince began to approach the young elf, charm laced in his deepened yet smooth voice. “Hello, dear. I’m sorry, but if I may ask, what is your reasoning here in Asgard?” He cocked his head to one side, a brow arching at the end of his question while his eyes studied her frame. Vey stood in hesitation, he was even more beautifully handsome up close.
“Oh, hello.” Biting her tongue, her eyes darted to one side, quickly discovering her next lie. She collected herself before smiling sweetly up at Loki. “Prince Loki, forgive me.” She offered a light bow, placing a hand lightly on her chest, “I am Nessa Elladan and I hail from Vanaheim. I sense you are aware of who I am and what my ancestors are known for, I dare not lie to you about that, mischief-maker.” She began, seeing that he remained silent, she continued, “However, I never knew my birth parents. I was stranded on the abhorrent territory known as Svartalfheim. A wise guardian of Vanaheim had found and rescued me while on a confidential quest, thus taking me in his embrace as his own and taking me to the home of the Vanir.” She beamed, figuring Malekith would be proud of her made-up tales but at the same time, the thought of him made her throat hurt as tears threatened to well up. "I have learned the ways of the Vanir and seek no reason to follow those of my treacherous ancestors."
Loki clasped his hands behind his back with a nod, a weary smile appearing across his face. “I see. Forgive me, a fellow Vanir then? I take it you are here in Asgard to study further crafts to heighten your experience? Or perhaps, exploring the wondrous marks of this grand kingdom?” He questioned, seeming to relax a little in the dark elf’s presence. Vey nodded, the same charitable expression still unmistakable. “Oh yes- I am here to learn alchemy, magic, and that sort of thing. Asgard is known far and wide to have the best sources.” She added, her lie slowly turning into one giant false story.
“Magic you say? That is something I excel in.” Loki added happily before the closest Einherjar whispered something into his ear which caused Loki’s expression to fall ill momentarily. He nodded in response and cleared his throat, turning back to Vey. “I apologize. I have some things I need to attend to and as a prince, I mustn't delay. Do stop by the great library in the palace before your return to Vanaheim. It is open to trustworthy nobles and fresh students eager to learn. I’m sure it will not disappoint your studies.” He added before turning away and walking to the palace. The Einherjar followed in a justified formation right behind, although some didn’t hesitate to throw the dark elf some distinguished looks.
She watched Loki’s cape flow behind him effortlessly, his steps and stance so confident and robust. Once he had disappeared, Vey shook her head while beginning to pinch the bridge of her nose and cursing under her breath. What are you doing?
Vey thought to herself hesitantly before deciding on taking up the prince’s offer, making her way to the palace’s entrance and in search of the grand library.
Inside, everything was massive, tall, and all the same- golden. There were nobles and royals of the courts wandering around attending to their duties. Servants and more Einherjar worked by guarding alongside them. Vey noticed a few foreigners, perhaps learning just as Loki thought she was. They weren’t wearing anything of Asgardian nature, nor the comparable Aesir attire. The excitement began to course through Vey’s veins, quickly dashing over to a servant and asking them which direction the library was in. He was hesitant at first, studying her elvish eyes carefully then responding to her question with caution.
After being kindly guided, she thanked him and proceeded to wander to her destination. It was a large room complete with three floors chock-full of bookshelves. Once picking an aisle, her fingertips ran along the spines as she read each one. Vey wasn’t much into books herself, but she was always eager to learn. Especially if there was ever anything new in combat, magic, or even manipulation, she was all for it.
A few hours passed and Vey had skimmed through more than just a couple of books, her head already swarming with more knowledge than when she had first entered the palace. After slamming one book shut, she gazed out the window- it was nearing sunset. She frowned, glancing down at the cover of Asgard’s history before her. Vey remembered that she was stranded here, with no place to rest her head at night.
Shoving herself back abruptly, the sturdy chair groaned against the luminescent silver and gold floor. She piled the books up one by one then picked them up, proceeding to put them where she found them. Once placing the final book away, she rested her hand on the spine as a sigh escaped her, exhaustion creeping in.
She exited the library, the corridors being a lot less crowded in the late evening, this made her feel more at ease. She made her way to the main doors of the palace until the voice from earlier called out to her. “Ah, dear Nessa.”
Vey stopped and looked up while turning around to find herself face to face with the prince yet again. Her brow furrowed in confusion, quickly bowing slightly as she did last time. “Prince, I am sorry. I was just leaving.”
Loki shook a gesturing hand with half a frown; however, his eyes held a welcoming yet exhausted gaze. “Not at all, many scholars spend all night in the libraries here. I take it that is where you’re coming from? If so, I do hope it treated you and your studies extraordinarily well.” He spoke strongly with pride, a bright smile emerging across his lips. Vey studied his posture and the way his vocabulary rolled off his tongue like a rehearsed soliloquy. His expression was accidentally charming, suddenly feeling uncommonly timid in his grand presence, it wasn't until then she had noticed how incredibly small and fragile she had seemed next to his taller, more broad frame. Vey quickly averted her eyes away with a small smile. “Yes, it is marvelous. The best and surely the largest library I have ever been to.” She complimented, forcing herself to look back up at him.
“So, I’ve heard.” Loki beamed, his smile growing with a light chuckle. “Tell me again, what is your main profession in research? I only ask because reading literature and books is something I fancy doing in my spare time.”
Vey blinked in confusion, curious as to why the prince would ever be wasting his time talking to a stranger about something this late in the evening.
“Uh- Combat techniques. Archery?” She stammered, although it was the truth, however, she already knew most of it all under the archery classification. Loki’s brow furrowed in disorientation, frowning momentarily. “That’s odd. I thought when we first spoke, you had told me you were interested in alchemy and magic? Correct me if I’m wrong.”
Vey’s eyes widened as she held her breath, remembering the great lie of a fable she had shared with the god of mischief earlier that day.
“Right. That is correct, my Prince- but I always wanted to take on combat one day. I’ve always been fascinated with, um, archery too. The section you have here in Asgard was too good to pass up, I just had to take a look at a book or two.” Vey grinned nervously, a light blush arising along her pale cheeks, doing her best to ignore her arising racing heartbeat. Who knows what Loki would do to her if he found out she lied? Perhaps worse, him figuring out she was a dark elf huntress born and raised in Svartalfheim under the authority of the dark association of Malekith the Accursed himself.
“Now archery is something I, unfortunately, cannot help anyone with.” Loki started, another faint chuckle leaving him, “If you ever want to dive deeper into your research with other subjects, I have special one-of-a-kind books I could lend you.”
“What? I mean, why?” Vey stuttered, taken aback by his generosity. She cleared her throat, her wild expression softening. “I-I’m sorry. I am far from your stature and I won’t accept it. I can’t. Why let a stranger of my nature borrow your original literature?” She asked, blinking in bewilderment.
Loki just smirked nimbly with small silent laughter in response. “I know we just met today, but I see unfading potential in you, Nessa Elladan. You remind me a lot like me many years ago and frankly, I no longer require those books that you seek.”
Vey studied him further, her mind delving deeper into why he kept speaking to her rather than turning in for the night in his royal chambers. She was sure he had more important matters to attend to first thing in the morning. “I am forever grateful for such an offer, my prince. Thank you.” She bowed her head respectfully.
“Don’t mention it. I can send them with a servant to your chambers later. Which corridor are you using during your stay?” Loki asked.
Vey tried not to show her doubt, quickly trying to conjure up another great lie that will surely get her in trouble in the future. “None. I-I prefer the wildlife. I have a tent set up outside the citadel. It’s not too far from here.” She smiled nervously, hoping he wouldn’t see the anxiousness in her eyes.
“Really? I suppose that would make sense. You are part of the Vanir as you’ve stated. How shall I send you the books then?”
“Oh! Don’t bother, I can stop by tomorrow and try to find you?” Vey stammered in a hastily reply. “Unless if you’re too busy- I understand how important and time-consuming a monarch and running a kingdom can be.”
Loki smiled, shaking his head. “I’m sorry, but I will be leaving Asgard tomorrow morning and will be absent most of the day. I can send a servant to look for your tent? Just outside the citadel, you said, was it?”
“Oh! Yes!” Vey’s eyes widened, quickly remembering a small collection of trees she had seen earlier when arriving at Asgard. She began to wonder if it was really near the citadel. “Sort of, just n-north of there.” She grinned wildly, her nervousness amplifying.
Vey was always an extraordinarily strong liar and had an even stronger poker face. Yet, something never did sit right whenever she lied to an emperor or empress, especially now to the top trickster who is nearing the rights of the throne one day.
“Brilliant. Have a good evening then, Nessa. Hope to see you again.” Loki smiled and walked past, his cape swooping behind and just barely brushing against Vey’s legs. She couldn’t help but bite her lower lip and grin, now looking at her feet. His scent filled her nose and she nearly swooned right there. “Good night, Prince Loki.”
~ ~ ~
Vey cursed under her breath while trying to set up the tent she had secretly snagged from the shops once leaving the palace. She found the small collection of trees she remembered spotting, but it was much further from the citadel than what she had told Loki. Damn. Finally, the tent had cooperated, adjusting a few things before unrolling the bedroll she also took and laid it underneath the thick cotton material.
She crawled inside and laid back along the leathery strip, a deep sigh escaping her as her chest fell gradually. So many thoughts raced through her mind, so many curiosities until her focus fell back on the prince. Her cheeks began to grow hot, placing her delicate fingers against the warmth and closing her eyes in defeat. “Vey, stop thinking like that.” She cursed before quickly drifting off into a peaceful dreamland.
~ ~ ~
“Is there a miss uh, Nessa Elladan present?” A muffled voice called out into Vey’s thoughts, slowly pulling her from her dreams. She snorted awake, wiping the fresh drool that escaped from the corner of her mouth with the back of her hand. “Who’s Nessa?” She called back tiredly with a faint groan, a long yawn shortly following. “I must have found the wrong tent then- my mistake.”
Vey’s eyes shot open and she sat up, quickly crawling from the tent. “No, wait! I’m Nessa Elladan.” She stumbled, quickly standing and fixing her messy silver blond hair and offering an awkward smile to the stranger. “D-Did Loki send you?” She asked, her eyes lighting up and her heart suddenly fluttered. The man looked her up and down in confusion before handing over a stack of books. “Yes, miss. These are for you.”
She grabbed the books he handed over and ran her fingers along the old rich leather, grinning.
“Please tell the prince I am forever thankful for this!” She exclaimed.
Vey waved goodbye as the servant left before crawling back into her tent, excited to read everything the prince had offered. He had offered her the following books and pieces of literature; Introductions to Magic, Skilled Combat Techniques; Daggers & Swords, Outsmarting Your Opponent, Learning Your Inner Strength & Power, and even one on highly skilled archery for archers.
Once getting comfortable, she opened up the first book; Skilled Archery. She raised a brow in confusion as a note fell out of the book and into her lap. She grabbed it hesitantly, reading silently to herself in disbelief.
“Dear Nessa, I hope these books treat you well. I have stated that archery isn’t my forte, but I feel as if this one I found will do you good. If you have the time between studies, I’d like it if you’d meet me tomorrow evening in the gardens located in the middle of the palace. It shouldn’t be hard to locate. Sincerely, Loki, the Prince of Asgard.”
Vey’s eyes widened while gripping the paper, forgetting how to breathe as she read the note again and again until she pinched herself. She began to wonder if all this lying was indeed a horrible mistake. “Loki wants a private meeting with… Me?”
Summary: Continuing more into Vey's story into Asgard after crashing one of Malekith's Ark ships in betrayal.
Chapter Warnings: None!
Author’s Note: I wrote this about a year back and started back up around chapter four- I hope you guys enjoy this second chapter!
Chapter Two - An Elf’s Arrival
Vey awoke in a field of green grass and yellow flowers, it was bright and colorful- not like the dark and hazy horizons of Svartalfheim. She blinked the blurriness from her eyes and noticed her body was covered in fresh scars and wounds, laying among dirt and debris of the Ark ship. She sat up; her head immediately started to pound. She groaned with a soft hiss, slamming her fist into the dirt below in frustration. She turned to look behind her- the Ark had crashed. Bits and pieces were scattered about and broken. Unfix-able.
She took a deep breath, soon hugging her knees tight against her chest while refusing to let newfound shameful tears fall. She felt guilty. She felt hopeless. She knew she disappointed Malekith greatly, and now she was paying for the consequences by finding herself stranded in another realm she knew not of. She began to regret ever stepping into the Ark. She was entirely alone. Her hand snaked through the tall grass and weeds for her bow. Once feeling the familiar etchings and handle she grabbed it, only to find it had been slashed in half from the brutal impact. Defeat filled the elf’s eyes, she threw it as far as she could with a raspy screech. She then slammed her hands into her head and cried as hard as she could for the first time in her life.
Finally more stable, she stood. Vey held onto her arms weakly while pondering among the greenery. Too busy being enveloped by her intrusive thoughts, she hardly noticed the brick road her feet stumbled upon. Her eyes followed it down a forestry range; away in the distance was a golden structure glistening in the light of day peeking over the top of the trees. Vey’s brow furrowed, thinking hard in confusion about when Malekith had taught her the history of the Nine Realms and their ministries. She began naming each of them off the top of her head, knowing they were all wrong choices until she reached the most meaningful; Asgard.
“Of course!” Vey muttered to herself then began to follow the road to the capital.
~~~
Vey found herself in the miraculous streets of Asgard. Everything was gold, there were exotic plants and foliage everywhere to be seen, waterfalls were gushing from the sides of many different buildings and some disappeared into a sparkling mist. Her eyes lit up as they darted across the shops and people she passed, however avoiding eye contact once people started to notice her abnormal elf eyes and large pointed ears. She pursed her lips together, knowing she had to blend in before someone noticed. She knew her shapeshifting ability wasn’t exactly up to par so she didn’t bother. Instead, she ducked behind a small cart that was selling cloaks and of the sort. Without hesitation, she snatched one up off the display rack and disappeared down a narrow alleyway, slipping on the fine Asgardian material while pulling the hood up to hide her ears. She followed the dark road down to the opposite end, bringing her to a much larger street and far less crowded, fancier too.
Ahead of her stood the worthy palace in all its glory. It was much larger than when Vey had first seen it back in the forest. She stood in awe at the beautiful golden ridges glistening in the light, wondering why they didn’t have anything like this back at home.
Unfortunately, Svartalfheim was always known for its dark and dusk lands, everlasting poverty, and not much to show off like that of this glittering place. Asgard was magnificently beautiful. Her mind went back to the books she had read on the history of this kingdom’s monarchs, the All-Father, Queen Frigga and their two sons, Thor- God of thunder, and Loki, God of mischief.
Just then, she was nudged aside by a stiff figure, scowling over her shoulder as she stumbled to get a better look at them. To her surprise, it was a large group of Einherjar- the loyal elite warriors that served as an army of Asgard. Vey began to wonder what was the reason for so many of them right here, right now until she noticed something or someone. Walking among the group was Loki, looking exhausted it seemed.
Vey’s eyes gradually widened, never imagining ever being this close to an actual god in her life. She studied his body language and facial expression as he walked closer. Vey narrowed her eyes, everything seemed to be moving in slow motion when the two abruptly made eye contact.
Loki’s expression altered from a fatigued scowl to powerful bewilderment within seconds the longer he had observed Vey. She gasped her heart in her throat and was unable to breathe as he requested the Einherjar to a brisk halt. Dark elves were known for their poisonous treachery and corruption throughout the nine realms, hardly ever to be trusted anywhere outside their homeland. For any of the monarchs to find one, you better have a quick tongue or die trying.
The prince began to approach the young elf, charm laced in his deepened yet smooth voice. “Hello, dear. I’m sorry, but if I may ask, what is your reasoning here in Asgard?” He cocked his head to one side, a brow arching at the end of his question while his eyes studied her frame. Vey stood in hesitation, he was even more beautifully handsome up close.
“Oh, hello.” Biting her tongue, her eyes darted to one side, quickly discovering her next lie. She collected herself before smiling sweetly up at Loki. “Prince Loki, forgive me.” She offered a light bow, placing a hand lightly on her chest, “I am Nessa Elladan and I hail from Vanaheim. I sense you are aware of who I am and what my ancestors are known for, I dare not lie to you about that, mischief-maker.” She began, seeing that he remained silent, she continued, “However, I never knew my birth parents. I was stranded on the abhorrent territory known as Svartalfheim. A wise guardian of Vanaheim had found and rescued me while on a confidential quest, thus taking me in his embrace as his own and taking me to the home of the Vanir.” She beamed, figuring Malekith would be proud of her made-up tales but at the same time, the thought of him made her throat hurt as tears threatened to well up. "I have learned the ways of the Vanir and seek no reason to follow those of my treacherous ancestors."
Loki clasped his hands behind his back with a nod, a weary smile appearing across his face. “I see. Forgive me, a fellow Vanir then? I take it you are here in Asgard to study further crafts to heighten your experience? Or perhaps, exploring the wondrous marks of this grand kingdom?” He questioned, seeming to relax a little in the dark elf’s presence. Vey nodded, the same charitable expression still unmistakable. “Oh yes- I am here to learn alchemy, magic, and that sort of thing. Asgard is known far and wide to have the best sources.” She added, her lie slowly turning into one giant false story.
“Magic you say? That is something I excel in.” Loki added happily before the closest Einherjar whispered something into his ear which caused Loki’s expression to fall ill momentarily. He nodded in response and cleared his throat, turning back to Vey. “I apologize. I have some things I need to attend to and as a prince, I mustn't delay. Do stop by the great library in the palace before your return to Vanaheim. It is open to trustworthy nobles and fresh students eager to learn. I’m sure it will not disappoint your studies.” He added before turning away and walking to the palace. The Einherjar followed in a justified formation right behind, although some didn’t hesitate to throw the dark elf some distinguished looks.
She watched Loki’s cape flow behind him effortlessly, his steps and stance so confident and robust. Once he had disappeared, Vey shook her head while beginning to pinch the bridge of her nose and cursing under her breath. What are you doing?
Vey thought to herself hesitantly before deciding on taking up the prince’s offer, making her way to the palace’s entrance and in search of the grand library.
Inside, everything was massive, tall, and all the same- golden. There were nobles and royals of the courts wandering around attending to their duties. Servants and more Einherjar worked by guarding alongside them. Vey noticed a few foreigners, perhaps learning just as Loki thought she was. They weren’t wearing anything of Asgardian nature, nor the comparable Aesir attire. The excitement began to course through Vey’s veins, quickly dashing over to a servant and asking them which direction the library was in. He was hesitant at first, studying her elvish eyes carefully then responding to her question with caution.
After being kindly guided, she thanked him and proceeded to wander to her destination. It was a large room complete with three floors chock-full of bookshelves. Once picking an aisle, her fingertips ran along the spines as she read each one. Vey wasn’t much into books herself, but she was always eager to learn. Especially if there was ever anything new in combat, magic, or even manipulation, she was all for it.
A few hours passed and Vey had skimmed through more than just a couple of books, her head already swarming with more knowledge than when she had first entered the palace. After slamming one book shut, she gazed out the window- it was nearing sunset. She frowned, glancing down at the cover of Asgard’s history before her. Vey remembered that she was stranded here, with no place to rest her head at night.
Shoving herself back abruptly, the sturdy chair groaned against the luminescent silver and gold floor. She piled the books up one by one then picked them up, proceeding to put them where she found them. Once placing the final book away, she rested her hand on the spine as a sigh escaped her, exhaustion creeping in.
She exited the library, the corridors being a lot less crowded in the late evening, this made her feel more at ease. She made her way to the main doors of the palace until the voice from earlier called out to her. “Ah, dear Nessa.”
Vey stopped and looked up while turning around to find herself face to face with the prince yet again. Her brow furrowed in confusion, quickly bowing slightly as she did last time. “Prince, I am sorry. I was just leaving.”
Loki shook a gesturing hand with half a frown; however, his eyes held a welcoming yet exhausted gaze. “Not at all, many scholars spend all night in the libraries here. I take it that is where you’re coming from? If so, I do hope it treated you and your studies extraordinarily well.” He spoke strongly with pride, a bright smile emerging across his lips. Vey studied his posture and the way his vocabulary rolled off his tongue like a rehearsed soliloquy. His expression was accidentally charming, suddenly feeling uncommonly timid in his grand presence, it wasn't until then she had noticed how incredibly small and fragile she had seemed next to his taller, more broad frame. Vey quickly averted her eyes away with a small smile. “Yes, it is marvelous. The best and surely the largest library I have ever been to.” She complimented, forcing herself to look back up at him.
“So, I’ve heard.” Loki beamed, his smile growing with a light chuckle. “Tell me again, what is your main profession in research? I only ask because reading literature and books is something I fancy doing in my spare time.”
Vey blinked in confusion, curious as to why the prince would ever be wasting his time talking to a stranger about something this late in the evening.
“Uh- Combat techniques. Archery?” She stammered, although it was the truth, however, she already knew most of it all under the archery classification. Loki’s brow furrowed in disorientation, frowning momentarily. “That’s odd. I thought when we first spoke, you had told me you were interested in alchemy and magic? Correct me if I’m wrong.”
Vey’s eyes widened as she held her breath, remembering the great lie of a fable she had shared with the god of mischief earlier that day.
“Right. That is correct, my Prince- but I always wanted to take on combat one day. I’ve always been fascinated with, um, archery too. The section you have here in Asgard was too good to pass up, I just had to take a look at a book or two.” Vey grinned nervously, a light blush arising along her pale cheeks, doing her best to ignore her arising racing heartbeat. Who knows what Loki would do to her if he found out she lied? Perhaps worse, him figuring out she was a dark elf huntress born and raised in Svartalfheim under the authority of the dark association of Malekith the Accursed himself.
“Now archery is something I, unfortunately, cannot help anyone with.” Loki started, another faint chuckle leaving him, “If you ever want to dive deeper into your research with other subjects, I have special one-of-a-kind books I could lend you.”
“What? I mean, why?” Vey stuttered, taken aback by his generosity. She cleared her throat, her wild expression softening. “I-I’m sorry. I am far from your stature and I won’t accept it. I can’t. Why let a stranger of my nature borrow your original literature?” She asked, blinking in bewilderment.
Loki just smirked nimbly with small silent laughter in response. “I know we just met today, but I see unfading potential in you, Nessa Elladan. You remind me a lot like me many years ago and frankly, I no longer require those books that you seek.”
Vey studied him further, her mind delving deeper into why he kept speaking to her rather than turning in for the night in his royal chambers. She was sure he had more important matters to attend to first thing in the morning. “I am forever grateful for such an offer, my prince. Thank you.” She bowed her head respectfully.
“Don’t mention it. I can send them with a servant to your chambers later. Which corridor are you using during your stay?” Loki asked.
Vey tried not to show her doubt, quickly trying to conjure up another great lie that will surely get her in trouble in the future. “None. I-I prefer the wildlife. I have a tent set up outside the citadel. It’s not too far from here.” She smiled nervously, hoping he wouldn’t see the anxiousness in her eyes.
“Really? I suppose that would make sense. You are part of the Vanir as you’ve stated. How shall I send you the books then?”
“Oh! Don’t bother, I can stop by tomorrow and try to find you?” Vey stammered in a hastily reply. “Unless if you’re too busy- I understand how important and time-consuming a monarch and running a kingdom can be.”
Loki smiled, shaking his head. “I’m sorry, but I will be leaving Asgard tomorrow morning and will be absent most of the day. I can send a servant to look for your tent? Just outside the citadel, you said, was it?”
“Oh! Yes!” Vey’s eyes widened, quickly remembering a small collection of trees she had seen earlier when arriving at Asgard. She began to wonder if it was really near the citadel. “Sort of, just n-north of there.” She grinned wildly, her nervousness amplifying.
Vey was always an extraordinarily strong liar and had an even stronger poker face. Yet, something never did sit right whenever she lied to an emperor or empress, especially now to the top trickster who is nearing the rights of the throne one day.
“Brilliant. Have a good evening then, Nessa. Hope to see you again.” Loki smiled and walked past, his cape swooping behind and just barely brushing against Vey’s legs. She couldn’t help but bite her lower lip and grin, now looking at her feet. His scent filled her nose and she nearly swooned right there. “Good night, Prince Loki.”
~ ~ ~
Vey cursed under her breath while trying to set up the tent she had secretly snagged from the shops once leaving the palace. She found the small collection of trees she remembered spotting, but it was much further from the citadel than what she had told Loki. Damn. Finally, the tent had cooperated, adjusting a few things before unrolling the bedroll she also took and laid it underneath the thick cotton material.
She crawled inside and laid back along the leathery strip, a deep sigh escaping her as her chest fell gradually. So many thoughts raced through her mind, so many curiosities until her focus fell back on the prince. Her cheeks began to grow hot, placing her delicate fingers against the warmth and closing her eyes in defeat. “Vey, stop thinking like that.” She cursed before quickly drifting off into a peaceful dreamland.
~ ~ ~
“Is there a miss uh, Nessa Elladan present?” A muffled voice called out into Vey’s thoughts, slowly pulling her from her dreams. She snorted awake, wiping the fresh drool that escaped from the corner of her mouth with the back of her hand. “Who’s Nessa?” She called back tiredly with a faint groan, a long yawn shortly following. “I must have found the wrong tent then- my mistake.”
Vey’s eyes shot open and she sat up, quickly crawling from the tent. “No, wait! I’m Nessa Elladan.” She stumbled, quickly standing and fixing her messy silver blond hair and offering an awkward smile to the stranger. “D-Did Loki send you?” She asked, her eyes lighting up and her heart suddenly fluttered. The man looked her up and down in confusion before handing over a stack of books. “Yes, miss. These are for you.”
She grabbed the books he handed over and ran her fingers along the old rich leather, grinning.
“Please tell the prince I am forever thankful for this!” She exclaimed.
Vey waved goodbye as the servant left before crawling back into her tent, excited to read everything the prince had offered. He had offered her the following books and pieces of literature; Introductions to Magic, Skilled Combat Techniques; Daggers & Swords, Outsmarting Your Opponent, Learning Your Inner Strength & Power, and even one on highly skilled archery for archers.
Once getting comfortable, she opened up the first book; Skilled Archery. She raised a brow in confusion as a note fell out of the book and into her lap. She grabbed it hesitantly, reading silently to herself in disbelief.
“Dear Nessa, I hope these books treat you well. I have stated that archery isn’t my forte, but I feel as if this one I found will do you good. If you have the time between studies, I’d like it if you’d meet me tomorrow evening in the gardens located in the middle of the palace. It shouldn’t be hard to locate. Sincerely, Loki, the Prince of Asgard.”
Vey’s eyes widened while gripping the paper, forgetting how to breathe as she read the note again and again until she pinched herself. She began to wonder if all this lying was indeed a horrible mistake. “Loki wants a private meeting with… Me?”
Summary: An introduction of my personal original character, Vey- a dark elf who begins a new journey amongst a new world.
Chapter Warnings: None!
Author’s Note: I wrote this about a year back and started back up around chapter four, hope you guys enjoy!
Chapter One - Betrayal
Malekith closely observed Vey in the open emptiness of Svartalfheim that evening. She was being examined for her final training where she must demonstrate her abilities to the representatives of the dark elf council. Vey was highly skilled in different crafts; sneaking, hunting, two-handed weapon use, and even combat studies. She was deadliest with a bow and arrow, hardly ever missing a single shot. Malekith had a tremendous amount of faith and pride in Vey, for she was one of the very few female warriors to be. With this came very high expectations for her.
Vey's mother had unfortunately passed on from a horrible disease when she was young- thus Malekith ended up adopting her as his own. He mentored her and watched her grow ever since. Vey’s father was never a part of Vey's life, none of the other elves had even seen nor even heard of him, to begin with- other than he was an outcast and a traitor. Vey’s mother never did speak much of him anyway.
“Focus Veylandressa. All these years of training leading up to this very moment. Do not waste it.” The dark elf lord spoke up in a rather demanding tone. She had passed all the previous tests and it was time to delve deeper into her more rare abilities- thus she had a harder time accomplishing. Very few dark elves could possess powers like Malekith; shapeshift, teleport, energy blasts, and of the sorts, however, it was very rare and difficult to achieve. Yet, somehow deep down he knew Vey could handle and retain such abilities like himself. He almost feared she could be better in every aspect. However, could she pass such tests before the council?
Focus. Focus. Focus…
Vey remained silent, thinking deeply about the power she wanted to conjure. She decided to start with shapeshifting. It took some effort but eventually, she did it, transforming herself into a simple Midgardian. She looked over to Malekith who seemed only half pleased as he nodded for her to continue. She sighed and returned to her original form, quickly noticing that her elf ears had still stood out during the entire transformation.
Next, she was to take on the teleportation sequence, much more concentration was to be held with this one. She never did master it, however. She could feel her power malfunction during the cast and instantly failed her test. With what power it took from her she knelt, exhausted before gazing up at her adoptive father, who stood there frowning with disappointment. “I had so much hope in you, Veylandressa. You’ve let me down. I thought you were ready.” He spoke firmly while holding a strong disconcerting gaze. Another elf came up and spoke something silent within his ear before nodding. Malekith stared at Vey for a long moment, his jaw clenching then he turned away.
“Wait no! I can do better! Please, father! If I just could have more time.” She called out to him, stumbling behind. He turned dead in his tracks and narrowed his eyes. The dark elf was growing impatient. “You had all this time! There is no more time available to you, Veylandressa! I thought much bigger and more out of you- I was wrong. You know how much I loathe being wrong. Can I even consider you a daughter?”
Vey fell to her knees at his words, watching him turn and leave with his group. Her entire life she wanted to be the best she could be, to impress them all, to be on top, most importantly for Malekith to be truly proud of her- and she just blew it all within minutes. That very day, she felt alone. She was abandoned once, and now again- except this time it truly stung. She began to wonder if Malekith was the one who sent her biological father for being just under the label of so-called perfection. She was upset with herself, her ways, scolding herself for not training harder, and for the days she felt lazy or wanted to slack off due to exhaustion. Her gaze dropped to the ashy ground, sniffing and left alone. “No. I don’t think you can, or should any longer...”
Vey stood, her hands balled into fists as tears began to stream down her face. She took a deep breath, turned, and made a run for it. She ran and ran until she had approached one of the Ark ships. Not looking back, she climbed in and began flipping every switch and pushing every button she could see. It was quickly brought to life. She only ever observed when Malekith would drive and her memory wasn’t the greatest at this point. Her vision clouded with tears as she sat down. She abruptly grabbed a hold of the controls and took off, leaving Svartalfheim long behind her.
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