Due to Stella's tendency to worry too much, Loki was doing much better than she had expected. He was very tired most of the time, but not totally helpless. They spent their time catching up with each other, telling tales of things that had happened while they were apart. Stella was enjoying the royal treatment. "I'll bet William and Kate don't get this much luxury," she joked. She even became acquainted with Thor's friends, Lady Sif and the Warriors Three.
Stella and Loki had fun making wedding plans together.
"Is there any chance that we could bring my family and maybe a couple of friends to Asgard?"
"We'll have to speak to Odin about that." Loki sat up. "I've almost forgotten. Servants! Bring the in wedding gifts!"
"You could've said 'please'," Stella admonished him.
The servants returned with an ornate trunk, which was painted with peacock feathers and studded with jewels of every color of the rainbow. The servant pulled out a flashy crown adorned with peacock feathers and clear crystals. Stella squealed with delight, and the servant presented the crown to her on a decorative pillow. "A crown for when you are a princess, and then you will be able to wear it. Please step into the light, my dear." She took the crown walked over to the balcony where the sun shone. The light struck the crystals on the crown, and cast a spectrum of colors throughout the room. She smiled and stepped out of the light. "The crystals come from the caves of Alfheim."
"Did you steal the crystals from those poor elves?"
"If you must know, I paid them in full with the sacrifice of a goat."
"That's my good boy."
"Next gift please!"
Stella noticed the use of the word 'please.' "Aww, sweetie, you're spoiling me."
"Nothing could ever spoil you, my dear."
The servant pulled the next gift out of the trunk. It was a flowing cloak of rainbow colors. The different hues all blended together. It had sleeves, but no hood. The clasp was a jewel in the shape of a flower. "It will appear when you need it and disappear when you don't— old Asgardian magic."
"It's beautiful," she sighed. She nearly tackled him in a hug. "I love you! I love you! I love you!" She showered him with kisses.
"I love you, darling."
Thor entered the chamber. "You're looking well, brother," he said.
"My bride has made me feel much better. Thank you for bringing her here," Loki said as he and Stella cuddled.
Stella could tell that Thor wanted a moment alone with his brother. "Sweetheart, I'm going to go see what Sif and the others are up to. I'll be right back." She kissed him on the forehead and walked out.
"I'd like some fresh air," said Loki. The two of them made their way to the balcony in the chamber.
"Brother, you always speak of the inferiority of humans, and now you choose to mingle with one of them? I admit, she is a charming young maiden, but what could've changed your mind?" asked Thor.
"She is not like most humans. She is part of a battalion of warriors who fight not with swords, but with knowledge. It's called 'Jeopardy' or something. And she has gifts beyond her world. You should see what she can do. It's breathtaking," said Loki.
"I've already seen a sample of what she can do," said Thor with a smile.
"Thor, Brother, you know that Odin does not approve of my bride, nor your mortal woman."
"Jane," Thor corrected.
"Jane. Stella has opened my eyes to a whole other world. She took my views and turned them upside down. I'm sure you've experienced something similar with Jane. If only Odin could understand. I love Stella more than the nine realms."
"I know, Loki." Thor sighed, "Mother would've loved her."
They stood in silence, felling the cool breeze and enjoying this one moment of peace.
Thanks to everyone who has read this story! I hope you like it so far. I'd like to dedicate this story to Tom Hiddleston as thanks for his fabulous role as Loki, and for just being awesome. I hope no one minds that I tend to write short chapters, but I update fairly often.
