I didn’t really think Tyr read my mind. I think he was paying some attention, though. He stepped out from behind a tree in Rock Creek Park.

“This is yours.”

“Are you sure you don’t need it any more?”

I shrugged. “I haven’t used it in a while. I think I’m safe to give it back.”

“Or you’re getting better at not needing it.”

I mused on that. “Maybe. But I’m told I need a better weapon.”

Tyr nodded. “Ask your father on that. He’s the best at dealing with dwarves, for all else is said about him, and the best weapons will always come from their tunnels.”

I thought about that. “I’d already thought about that.” My lips quirk. “Even if you…”

“I don’t hate him,” Tyr said. “We both fulfill our purpose. Sometimes it forces us into opposition, but that doesn’t mean I hate him.”

“I hope that doesn’t happen between us.”

He laughed. “You, who enjoys a fight as much as the next giant.”

I laughed back. “I enjoy a fight. I prefer it not to be with people who aren’t actually causing trouble.”

“Still, you have that in you and always will.”

“I also have my mother in me.”

“Very much.” He studied me. “I think that will be enough.”

“Enough to keep us from fighting.”

“Unless, of course, you want to.” A bit of a grin.

“Are you offering to kick my butt?” I had no illusions there. I’d lose in a fight with Tyr, despite his handicap.

“If you’re ever interested.” He grinned more broadly this time. “I promise not to do you any permanent damage.”

“I’ll think about it.” I wasn’t entirely sure I trusted him in a spar. Then again, he probably didn’t want Loki any more pissed at him.

“And talk to your father. A sword, I’d say, for you.”

“That’s what I was thinking.” I let that tail off for a moment, let it hang there. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“Being civilized.”

He grinned. “Well, law is needed for that, right?”

I had to agree. Then he wandered off into the trees, waving on his way out.

I felt a little bit of relief. We seemed, at least for now, to be “cool” as the people around me would say.