A/N: As always, I do not own Marvel or their amazing characters.
It was, of course, mine from the start. After the devastation that Asgard had left on this sad planet, it was only too easy to claim the throne. The people had practically thrown themselves to their knees, willing to believe in any leader who might change things for the better. Even if she was a disgraced Valkryie.
The Lost Prince had been beaten by the soon-to-be King of Asgard and his Midgardian warriors. I'd watched from the perch of my throne, noting the different tactics used by both sides. My top advisors, who'd brought me the news of the battle, stood watching my apprehensively, worried that the victory would fuel the bloodlust the Golden Prince had once felt. After a few moments, I waved the view away, addressing my people.
"They are nothing. Thanos would not lend the Chitauri to anyone again after such a defeat, especially with their weakness now known by what was thought to be the smallest of the Nine Realms." They nodded, though some still looked worried. "As for Asgard, they believe there to be no threat here. Only their Watcher can see our activities, and we have given them no cause for concern. For now, we focus our efforts on our rebuilding." They nodded and I waved them away, dismissing them to their duties. I sat for a moment as they dispersed, going over what I had just seen. True, Asgard did not find us a threat, and Thanos would be keeping his activities to a minimum for now, but that left the Midgardians. At least one of their warriors had seen how vast the universe was, how…claimable. They had a history of taking what they believed they had a right to, and I worried that our Realms and planets would be their next attempted conquest.
"Your Highness." I turned to the timid voice to see a young guard. I gave him a serene smile and bit him speak with a nod. "We have an intruder. A man claiming to be the true King of Jotunheim." I blinked, my feathers rustling a bit in surprise.
"Bring him in. I wish to see the face of the man who would make such a brazen claim to my throne." The guard nodded and hurried out. I moved to lounge comfortably in my throne, tucking my wings behind me in the great seat. After a few moments, a rather pale and familiar faced strode into the throne room, looking every bit as royal as he claimed to be. He looked me over, and I could see it bothered him that I was in "his" seat. "Welcome, Loki, Son of Odin." His anger became more visible then, and he made to take another step towards me before a guard stopped him. "My apologies. I suppose you would prefer the title Son of None?" I gave an icy grin as he struggled against the guard.
"How dare you sit upon my throne? By what right do you claim leadership of Jotunheim?" He spat the words at me, and my grin faded. And here I had thought such arrogance was saved for those who were less than himself. It did not bode well for him. I stood slowly, keeping my wings tucked back away from view.
"I am Inkeri, Ruler of the people of Jotunheim. And who are you, to abandon your people, fight against them, then come to challenge for this throne?" My voice rang loud and clear, echoing through the hall with such intensity as I only use when punishing others. Several guards flinched at the sound, and he seemed to take note of this.
"I am Loki, Son of Laufey, who once sat upon that throne. It is my birthright to lead my people." His voice was resonant, though a bit quieter, and I raised a brow at his announcement. I seemed to think for a bit.
"In that case, I suppose we might be able to find a place for you. Guards." Two stepped forward, on either side of the Lost Prince. "Escort our guest to his chambers. And stay with him." I looked him in the eye. "For his protection, of course."
"You'll regret this, you mewling quim!" He spat at me, bringing an ice cold smile to my face. I shifted my wings out, giving him a view of my dusky gray wings.
"I believe, Son of Laufey, that the only regret you will face will be your own." He paled, if that were possible, and I saw a flash of the Jotun red in his eyes before he was led away. I waited until he was gone before waving one of the servant girls over. "Attend him. Stay close." I looked her in the eye. "I want to know everything he plans. Do you understand?" She nodded and I waved her away as well.
So, he had returned. I huffed. I'd be damned if he was going to take my throne from me.
A/N: Read, rate, review friends!
