Finally, after onehundred years, Thor is about to be crowned king for the second time. Though the enthusiasm of the Asgardian people is as fierce as it was before the picture of the royal family looks very different this time around. In a measured pace Thor walks through the crowd, less boastful, but more apprechiative and astute. In Friggas stead Julian stands on the top of the stairs besides Odin, whose expression has softend over the last few years.
And then there is Loki who has aged much more in the last century then anyone else. Not so much from his apperance but you can see the fatigue in his eyes. Unlike the others wearing their festive armour he is dressed in the robes of the healers. At least it´s dark green - Sif thinks.
„It has been a long time since we stood together like this. Some are not with us anymore, and new ones have joined us. In this family as well as in every family in Asgard. We all have failed another, made amends and have forgiven the trespases. So I feel that in this moment we are ready to make the change. We all have earned this moment.
Come forth Thor, son of Asgard, ruler of lightning and thunder. I Odin, son of bor, pass now the crown to you my son and heir. Asgard I present to you your new leish.
Thor, King of Asgard, sovereign of the nine realms and keeper of midgard."
And as the old god bows down to his son the entire congregation bows along with him. For a second Sif is looking up to see Loki, but instead of jealousy she finds the expression of relief and closure on his face, as if the coronation was the happy end of a very dark chapter.
„Dear people of Asgard, father, I accept the crown and the responsibilities attached to wearing it. I promise hearby that I will do anything in my power to keep this realm in peace and bring further prosperity to my people. I will now proclaim my counsel as they will help me to the best of their abilities to support these aims. Hogun, Warrior of Vanaheim, Fandrall, Warrior of Asgard, Volstagg Warrior of Asgard, Heimdal Keeper of Asgard, Sif, Shieldmaiden of Asgard, Eir Chief healer of Asgard, Odin, Allfather and former King of Asgard," and after a brief pause, "and as first of my cousil, who will take over state affairs should I pass before I crown my son and heir, I proclaim Loki, of Asgard, my brother, Head of the sei∂ers, second among the healers and guardian of my son."
A sharp inhale travels through the crowed but the one looking most perplexed and shocked is Loki himself. But Thor ignores it and moves on „I see you all tonight at the big feast. Please counselers acompany me."
„You cannot be serious!"
The royal counsil is gathered around the fire in a beautiful lounge. All are seated except for Loki who is pacing restlessly from one corner to the other. „I can´t be a part of your counsil. I am way to occupied with my duties. Among which is the education of your child. I can take on more work, brother."
„Ah, Loki, we will work something out," Thor has stood up and approaches his brother carefully, „maybe we can reduce some of your duties. Expand the remit of the second of the sei∂ers and Eir is there anyone among your healers that could take Lokis position?"
„That would be a grief loss, but if it is your wish, King Thor, we will find a way." Eir answers.
„No. No," Loki is now looking at Odin and then turns around to stand firm before Thor. He looks straight at him „Why are you making it this hard on me Brother? I don´t want to give up any of my other duties. I just cannot be part of your counsil."
„But how am I to manage my duty to give the best to Asgard? Without my brother, one of the brightest and strongest Asgard has ever brought forth. You don´t understand Loki. I can´t dispense you."
Now Odin rises from his seat „Loki, your brother and I have discussed this for a long time now. You have excelled as a leader when the situations were dire. Your position as head of the sei∂r commands you to be part of the kings counsil."
His distressed face betrays Loki now and the Allfather continues „Loki have you not listened to my speech? We have all failed and we have all been forgiven. You have been forgiven. By all of us."
„No, not all of us, father. Like I have said once before, you can´t wipe out this much red."