"You mustn't underestimate Loki." The reply was almost automatic. Thor had settled on his stomach, so the words came out partly muffled by a pillow, but there was no mistaking the fondness in them. He was grateful for the familiarity of Sif's teasing, if not the content - it was something firm, easy and unchanging.

He felt the lightness tugging at him, and he was grateful for the effort. For now, while they were all alone and tired, Thor smiled a little. "It must seem like a great deal of carrying on to you, since I'm unable to make that sour face you have perfected for your frequent defeats. It's the same one you made the first time I beat you with a sword. I still remember it."