[for Jane]

A month it has been since Thor quarreled with Loki on the beach, and they seem no closer to reconciliation than they had upon parting ways. Were they in Asgard, the stretch of time would seem insignificant, inconsequential, but the longer Thor spends as a mortal, the more he grows aware of the value of even the slightest of seconds, thanks in part to Jane. Even here, she teaches him lessons, whether it is her intent or not.

Curious by nature, the lack of knowledge regarding his brother's plans -- for Loki always has plans -- is beginning to eat at even the idlest of thoughts, a constant thorn in the back of his mind no matter how Thor tries to distract himself with hunting and sport. He wants to find his brother, demand he see reason, but he knows Loki will only be found when he wants to be, leaving Thor alone to imagine what schemes might yet be on the horizon.

Today, however, such thoughts prove too much to bear, his mood dangerous as he trains in front of his home, each swing of his hammer a lethal one should anything step into its path. This place may sap him of his strength, but his form has not suffered from the loss -- nor will he let it. His brother's mind remains as sharp as ever, and so Thor will ensure in turn that his own skills stay equally as honed.

[for Steve]

Though Thor has grown wiser in choosing his battles, shying away from confrontation forever suits him ill. Yet for weeks he has avoided Steve Rogers, not out of fear, but out of stubbornness and misguided loyalty to a brother who apparently wants nothing to do with him. But the longer Loki lies in wait, the greater Thor's concern has become, Steve's cryptic warnings of his brother's counterpart replaying through Thor's mind.

Only today has he decided to pay them heed, no longer content to let his imagination conjure up his worst fears uninformed. Though he has never visited Steve's home prior to this, he finds it easy enough to locate, and it is without hesitation that he knocks on the wooden door.

"Steve Rogers," he shouts into the air, "we must speak at once."