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When Balder parted ways with Loki, he felt the tension as adrenaline filled his body. He was about to do something he shouldn't. Something forbidden and dangerous. Even though it was against his principles, he felt surprisingly normal, for now.
He had wanted to do this for years and finally had the chance, the most suitable opportunity, he would say. The feast was at its best so everyone was in the Golden Hall. Perfect for an unobserved wander around Asgard. He wouldn't go alone either. He'd have Loki by his side.
In his chamber, Balder packed only lightly. He took his diary and a graphite pencil into his bag. He had no idea if he'd see anything new there, but he wanted to note everything. Of course, their expedition would have to remain secret, so whatever happened, his sketches and notes wouldn't leave his diary.
He pulled on warm clothes under his leather armor and draped his blue winter cloak over his arm. He took one last look around the room to make sure he had everything. But what does one actually need for a trip to a frozen realm where travel is forbidden? They might arrive during a snowstorm, or encounter frost giants. Anything can happen.
Balder believed that nothing bad would happen to them. The two wouldn't make such a fuss to attract attention.
The corridors were empty, making it easier for him to sneak into Heimdall's observatory. Wearing winter armor at this time of day would certainly attract attention. The journey to the observatory was long, without a horse, and the closer he got, the more Balder felt nauseous. It was as if his body was fighting against his decision. Even his hands were shaking as he opened the door to the observatory.
His arrival was known even before he stepped onto the bridge, yet Heimdall looked surprised.
"What an honor to have such a visitor when there is a great celebration," he said, bowing his head in honor.
Balder looked around. Luckily Loki wasn't there yet. He didn't know how he'd convince Heimdall to cooperate if Loki teased him in some way. Sure, Loki could just wait and do nothing, but Balder sometimes felt like there was something inside Loki that made him want to poke around in every hornet's nest and enjoy every scene that would arise from it.
"Greetings, my friend. I guess you know why I'm here and I would appreciate it if it were kept between us. Whatever happens or doesn't happen." Balder reached into his bag and pulled out an object which he handed to Heimdall. It was half of a gold coin.
Heimdall nodded. "Is this really how you intend to use this?"
Balder hesitated for a moment. Half a coin that held one favor. To make Heimdall go against his orders. "Yes. I need no one else to know who I'm going with or where."
Heimdall raised an eyebrow, and Balder knew what his next question would be. "It's Loki. And this was my idea, he just joined in."
"Sneaking into an enemy realm, without Odin's permission, and your choice of companion on this dangerous journey is Loki. That doesn't seem like something the Balder I know would do."
Balder couldn't disagree. The perfect son who would do anything to make everyone happy, now wants to break a rule that was ordered by Odin himself.
"This is probably my only chance to get there. Another opportunity may never come. I know how dangerous it is, but my thirst for knowledge is greater. We know nothing about Jotunheimen. I can no longer fight my own curiosity. The coin is a token of our promise... I'm not asking for more than a few hours."
Heimdall was silent. If anyone found out about this, the punishments would be merciless for all. Even Balder would not get off easy.
Heimdal pressed the coin in his palm. "I'll give you five hours, and the time starts from this moment. Plenty of time to explore without anyone noticing. The time you spend in the realm depends on when your companion arrives."
"Thank you." Balder couldn't have asked for more. Even if Loki arrived an hour later, they'd still have plenty of time to see something new.