This was supposed to be released on my birthday… as a gift to all of you readers but sadly I am 9 days late. I hope you guys can forgive me! I had no idea how to write this chapter… writers block sucks! But I tried my best! And hopefully this makes y'all happy! There is a new character in this… For the armor described, think Agent of Asgard and the MCU. I hope you guys forgive me for being so late with this chapter… I'll keep trying to write even with this damned writer's block! I love you all for reading and sticking with me! Even with my crap update schedule!
-cluelessreader
Chapter 17
Today was the day. Loki's first naming day. Well… the first that he can remember. All of New Asgard was buzzing with final touches for the celebration. He was happy to share his naming day with New Asgards completion party. More for his people to celebrate.
Thor told him many people from everywhere would be showing up as well. It was something that his brother thought best to invite leaders from other nations. Loki understood well enough why it was smart to invite the mortals to New Asgards first event… but still thought it unnecessary.
He wanted New Asgard's people to have a celebration with one another. Not leaders from other countries. But his brother already announced it, so it shall be.
Loki was told to leave everything up to planners, just as Thor's first naming day was. A smile reached his face as he sat on the large cliff that overlooked all of New Asgard. He remembered his brother's naming day. The servants and his mother were running themselves ragged that day. He was sure Thor is doing the same now.
"I wonder what he's planning…" Loki muttered to himself. Of course he knows the traditions but there are not in Asgard anymore. Many things are going to be different.
"I thought I would find you up here." Lady Brunnhilde's familiar voice reached his ears. She climbed up the last bit of the grass path, sitting herself next to the young prince. "You don't look ready for a party."
Loki huffed a laugh. "I look forward to it, don't get me wrong. I just wish it was a festival with our own and not so many new people."
"Those make the best parties!" The warrior said happily.
He giggled and looked over at her, already seeing her with a drink in hand. "I see… that's what you're excited about."
Lady Brunnhilde's eyes moved to her drink then back. "Only a nice perk. I've heard everyone is going to bring either food or drink from their land. I can only imagine the flavors and different alcohols- this is not talk for a child."
"You may speak about it all you want, I will not be drinking anything."
"Not with Thor watching. But…" A mischievous glint in her brown eyes. "I'll let you try a sip of whatever i'm drinking."
"I have no interest in ale."
"Not now. You did before."
That got Loki's attention. "I drank? Father let me try ale before, it was disgusting."
Lady Brunnhilde laughed, taking a sip of her drink. "You didn't care for the heavy drinks. But you did always like the sweet ones."
He perked up quickly at that. "Sweet ones? I thought all drinks tasted as ale does."
"That's wrong! There are so many different kinds of sweet or sour drinks. I apprentice them all. And now being on a planet with so many different ways of brewing, I can only imagine the different flavors."
Loki rolled his eyes but had a smile on his face nevertheless. "If you find the sweet ones, I'll try those."
"Attaboy! Gotta start making a pallet now. Plus you'll have a good teacher to show you only the best." Lady Brunnhilde winked.
"I trust you." Loki smiled.
He was losing his mind!
Everything so close to completion for the first feast. Thor had been practicing in his words, making sure not to tell Loki anything. While this feast is for New Asgard being mostly finished it is more so for him.
"King Thor." A young familiar voice called out.
He turned around in the newly made hall to see the princess of Wakanda. A metal box on wheels to her side.
"You have completed it?" He asked hopefully.
Princess Shuri smiled and nodded. "I do believe he will like this surprise. I made the set myself. Okoye even made the blades for him." She patted the box. "You won't find better weapons or armor."
"I know I wont. The reason I trusted you so with this." Thor said happily. The food was being prepared, the hall was set, the festival decor was up, and all the outside guests were on their way. And now, Thor had Loki's surprise ready.
"Please relax now Princess. No more work is to be done now." Thor spoke as his attention was being called for be the head cook. "You have my everlasting debt Princess.. For your help with New Asgard as for helping Loki."
"It was my pleasure Thor. I know by brother would have wanted to help, and to help newcomers… I feel my brother is smiling down on me." Princess Shuri said sadly but with a smile nonetheless.
She bowed, crossing her arms across her chest and walked out. Leaving the silver gleaming box where it was. Thor looked over it, unlocking the clamps on the side he opened it. Inside sat Loki's first set of armor.
Thor had designed it himself, leaving the execution to Shuri. He remembered how much Loki laughed at his own first set of armor, with that in mind he decided to take inspiration from Loki's past life.
The main clothing was all black, the familiar cross layer on the chest, the pants were black but had the dark green lines across the thighs. Gold scale like accents were placed on the sides of the thighs, the green leather leading to it. On the chest of the armor sat the familiar gold ring set into a dark black chest plate.
There were bands of gold on the arms of the armor. Upper arm and along the forearm just below the elbow. To match what Loki used to have, there was a plate of gold along one shoulder, while a smaller less detailed one sat on the other. The black boots that had the familiar design of Loki's old boots completed the armor.
Next in the silver box was the specialty made weapons. Even from such a young age, while others were using swords, Loki had already drifted to the use of knives. Inside the case were 12 throwing knives. A dark black metal with a line of gold along the sharp edges. To other Asgardians, they look harmless and useless but Thor knew they were sharp and deadly. With Loki's keen eye and his own magic, the small blades made ten times more deadly to whoever they were used on.
The next in the box were two silver blades. Two needle point knives with a golden snake hilt and two green gems embedded as the eyes. The blade was supposed to be silver but Shuri thought it would look tacky with the gold hilt, so the metal was made black. Thor had to admit, he found the black metal much sleeker looking then the silver he had planned for.
The piece Thor was very impressed with was the staff that he was gunning for. While Thor got Mjolnir at a young age, Loki had never had a special weapon. This time around Thor was going to change that.
The staff was obviously a gleaming gold. Long and perfectly balanced. The only staff Thor ever saw Loki wield was when he had his attack on New York and used Gungnir to attack him, so he tried to mix the two for this staff.
It had a similar shape to the staff from New York, but the top blade wasn't so curved like a claw. It was all gold and an oval in the middle of the blade. He knew he didn't add that in the design but if Shuri or Okoye thought it necessary then so be it. It seemed the staff could retract, hence it being able to fit in the box at all.
Thor placed the staff back in its black case, same with the case for the throwing knives and the two blades, setting them back into the silver box. But noticed a larger black box under everything. He could have sworn there wasn't anything else.
He carefully untucked the box and opened it. The lid opened upward, like a necklace box would. Thor's eyes widened at the contents. He lifted a small piece of folded paper from the box and opened it.
Because I know Lakey isn't reading this. Thor, I put in my two cents for Shuri to add something to Lak present. Hope you don't mind but I wanted to give him something too.
- Valkyrie
He lowered the paper and there sat a new crown. It resembled the last one Loki ever wore. Only the horns were much smaller and Loki's familiar V crest sat in the middle. It shone brightly in the light. Each horn perfectly curved, even with them being much smaller. Metal was formed to fit perfectly around his face. It really did look so much like the one he last saw Loki in…
Thor gripped the crown in his hands, Loki in battle reached his mind. Fighting on the bifrost while Thor fought Hela. His spin dodge the incoming attack. Using the horn as a knife then a cocky toss of the helmet with his blue blade in hand.
Thor shook his head, taking in a shuddering breath. "He isn't gone anymore. Just different." He really needed to stop thinking of the past. He had a chance to make things right with Loki now! Not mess up as his parents had… to make sure Loki was happy.
He placed the helmet back in its place then closed the silver box. There were still more things to do. The feast was only two hours away now, so Thor refocused and got back to work.
The flight to Tønsberg, Norway was much nicer than Tony had planned. Flying on a private jet never got old. Him and Pepper talked about any and everything. They had to fill a 7 hour flight somehow.
With 6 of those 7 hours gone, the time drew closer to the pair being in New Asgard for the first time.
"I've seen on the news everything that Loki and Thor have been doing. I can't imagine what it must look like in person." Pepper said as she looked out the window. Hand relaxing on her belly and a pleasant smile on her face,
"With Wakanda helping them, I'm sure it will be great."
As happy as he was to hear that New Asgard was prospering and looking like a home worthy of alien gods, he was a bit jealous. Sure, he saw what tech Wakanda had from the interviews and news stories, but surely Thor knew he could have come to him for aid… right?
With how the two left things… Maybe it was a good thing Thor didn't reach out. Would Tony want to if someone insulted his family?
No.
"Stop worrying about this Tony. You know it's been a long time. Surly Thor has cooled off by now. And you know you're going to make things right with him and Loki. Everything will be fine." Pepper spoke up, causing him to flinch.
Could she read him that easily?
"I'm trying not to worry… But-"
"No but's Tony Stark. This is happening and it's going to be okay. I'm right here with you."
Yea… yea. Pepper was right. He smiled and his worry flooded away by his wife's words. He needed to stop overthinking things so much. They would both get there, he would apologize, Pepper would get to see Loki again and everything would be fine again. Everything between him and Thor as well as him and Loki.
It would all work out.
Tony knew he wouldn't be the only jet landing, and he wasn't wrong. People from all over the world that could make it to this event came.
He helped Pepper out of the jet and the moment she looked at the small city in front of her, she was in awe. Both looked on at the progress the refugee aliens made on the land.
"Loki did this?" Pepper asked, her breath clearly taken away from the work the young prince did.
"I'm not surprised. The kids smart, mix that with Wakanda tech, and now we have Asgard on Earth." Tony replied.
The crowd of people were walking toward some large building, Asgardians walking alongside them. The talent of All-speak allowing every Asgardian to talk to whoever they wanted.
Tony looked around and didn't see any cameras or press, so most of the people that flew in seemed rather happy and calm about that.
"No press." Tony whispered to Pepper.
Her head swiveled around, her keen eyes looking for anything that resembled a camera. "Huh. I suppose the press weren't allowed. Makes the atmosphere much more pleasant."
"Not being watched for a while, any celebrity or official would love that." Tony laughed a bit.
Soon enough the crowd was at a large town square, festive lights and music all around. A large hall had its doors wide open for the visitors and residence.
"Looks like the party is happening in there Pep."
"It's all over Tony, the foods being served in there." Pepper corrected, her happy eyes taking in the city wide party.
There were bright golden party flags hung from building to building. Wakandan lanterns floating around bathing the beautiful buildings in a warm luminescent light. Green plants hung from peoples balconies. Lights were strung around as well, the white glow complementing the gold from the lanterns.
There were banners large and small hung around the city. The back was a rich black with a deep green lined around the edge. A familiar V or snake crested gold in the middle.
"It's Loki's birthday today as well right?" Pepper asked as she walked to one of the many little stores around them. This was a little cart holding memorabilia for this event. Gotta get money from the tourists that just made showed right?
She saw the same black fabric with green and gold on the cart. Handing her the money it was worth, she unfolded it. Holding it to the many large banners all around, she smiled sadly.
"Yep." Tony answered.
The people of New Asgard and the government officials or wealthy of other lands spoke to one another. Asking questions back and forth about almost everything. The sun grew lower on the horizon and the lights that lit up the city seemed to make everything look more mystical.
"They know how to throw a party don't they?" Tony asked, the pair walking around some of the town before the feast was supposed to happen.
"That we do." A voice Tony didn't think he would be hearing yet answered. It sounded low and threatening.
Tony and Pepper turned quickly, their gaze meeting the familiar azure blue eyes that were trademark to Thor.
"Point break! How-"
"Why are you here Stark." Thor asked. No friendliness in his gaze.
"I know you didn't think you'd-"
"That is not what I asked Stark. Why are you here."
Pepper stepped forward. Standing next to Tony but placing an arm in front of him. "Thor. You know how things were left that night. I made him come here." She held her hand up when Thor was about to speak again. "He's here to apologize."
The blonds eyes widened at that. "Stark. Here to… to apologize?" He said in disbelief.
"I know. It's Tony. But he is trying now."
"He insulted my people, my family name, worst of all my little brother. After so long now he wants to apologize." Thor said, his voice calm but his demeanor clearly growing impatient.
"Yes. He does. Thor I'm the one that made him come here. I want him to make things right with you and Loki. And… I did ask him for selfish reasons."
"And what reasons were those. Lady Potts."
She drew in a breath, Tony watched as she seemed to almost deflate. "It's because I miss him, Thor."
He's anger quickly disappeared. "You… miss him?"
Pepper smiled. "Yes, we both do." Her eyes went to Tony. She was done speaking, it was up to him now.
"She's right Thor." The man's gaze sharpened. Tony drew in a breath, trying to stay calm under such a scrutinizing eye. "I ruined things that night. I know I did. And i've regretted it since it happened."
"How do I know you speak-"
"I'm not lying, Thor. I want us to be friends again, and I want Loki to know how sorry I am."
Thor looked him and Pepper over. Clearly trying to see some sort of lie. And Tony prayed he didn't.
"Thor! Where are you, the partys gotta star- Who are they?" A woman walked into the small open area the three were.
"Valkyrie. Where is Loki?"
"I asked first. Now, who are they?" She asked again. Clearly she was Asgardian. She wore a silver chest plate, a dark leather covering her torso, a dark brown skirt with two slits in front, with matching brown ankle boots. Her hair was braided, two along the sides and one from the middle. The three braids reached to a ponytail that left her hair curly. She had some white markings along her face and down her right arm.
Thor rolled his eyes but seemed more relaxed with the woman around. "They are who found Loki all that time ago."
Her dark brown gaze looked over him and Pepper. An eyebrow arched and a not to happy look on her face. "Thats this Stark person?" She asked, crossing her arms.
He nodded and her body language shifted to a more hostile energy.
"They are here to apologize to me and… and to Loki."
"Huh. Well that's interesting. You gonna let them see him?"
Thor lowered his eyes. "I know not."
"Thor please," Pepper spoke up. "We only want to see him again."
The woman, Valkyrie, eye's softened on Pepper. "I don't see why not, Thor. They seem truthful to me." she said as she stepped next to Thor, drink in hand.
"You think this will be okay?" Thor asked.
She nodded. "Loki doesn't need to be coddled. Anyway, there are a ton of new drinks from all the outsiders so I think it's time to return to the party. I'm sure Loki is wondering where we are as well." Valkyrie spoke as she passed to the street. "You know the party can't really start till you show up right?"
Thor rolled his eyes once more but a smile finally reached his face. "You are right Valkyrie." He faced the pair. "I will allow you and Pepper to stay. I know not if you speaking to Loki is a good idea… but I will allow it."
Tony sighed in relief. "Thank you Thor."
He eyed him as he passed, but followed the woman back to the main town square.
"Come on Pep. I'm gonna make things right."
Loki could hear the loud music from Thor's window. Apparently, he couldn't join the party till either Lady Brunnhilde or his brother came for him.
He rolled his eyes at that. It was a party for all of New Asgard, and partly for his naming day… he should be out there. But he knew how much planning and work Thor had done for this event, so he stayed.
The music was great, he could smell the food being sold at stands and could see his people as well as the mortals having a great time.
"Come on Thor… hurry up."
It seemed the Norns heard his boredom. The door clicked and finally Lady Brunnhilde showed up. Of course with another drink in hand.
"Lets go Lakey. The party is finally kicking off."
Loki jumped up quickly, finally ready to join all the fun outside. He ran past Lady Brunnhilde but did slow so she could walk next to him.
"I know Thor would want me to tell you this, but some people came for you."
He looked up at his friend. "I thought Princess Shuri wasn't coming."
Lady Brunnhilde only looked straight ahead.
"That's… that's not who you're talking about. Is it?"
She drew in a deep breath, placing her hand on his shoulder. "It's that man you and Thor spoke of before."
No… it can't be. "You have to be joking. There's no way Thor would allow him to be on New Asgard land at all!"
"I spoke with them you know."
His green eyes sharpened. "What do you mean you spoke with him."
The valkyrie took a sip of her drink before answering. "He's here with his wife. There both here to apologize to you Loki. And the woman said she misses you."
That stunned him. "Lady Pepper is here too?"
She nodded. "You've got me and Thor here Little Loki. You're not alone. You know if anyone says anything we'll deal with it." Lady Brunnhilde said with a sly smile.
Loki took a breath but did feel a bit better. "Alright. Let's go have a good party."
"That's the spirit!"
Tony and Pepper sat at one of five large tables filled with people. Food was set out across the long tables. The long white table cloths were draped in the middle of each table, leaving the sides of the table open. Showing the dark brown wood. Golden plates adorned the tables, filled with meats, fruits, breads, and everything that looked delicious. Large goblets and plates were set at each chair of every table, leaving the food to be chosen by the individual.
The pair could hear many conversations happening all around them. Some in english, others in Asgardian, most in the many different tongues that are on earth.
Pepper leaned over. "As much as I want to wait for us to be able to eat… everything looks so good."
"We only have to wait a bit longer. But you're not wrong. Have you seen the drinks here?"
Pepper raised an eyebrow.
"The drinks that I will not be drinking." Tony corrected quickly.
She giggled a bit. "I thought not."
The two looked around as the conversations that littered the hall seemed to quiet and vanish.
Thor and Valkyrie walked into the large festive room. Tony always forgets that Thor is royalty, but the way that his presence commands the room…
Thor looked around the room, a happy smile on his face. It only dimmed a bit when his gaze reached Tony, but returned again when looking back at the room as a whole.
"I welcome everyone here! To the first celebration of New Asgard!"
The Asgardians cheered and the visitors followed suit.
"But this day is important for another reason." The room quieted. "Today is my little brother's first naming day!" Once again the Asgardians cheered, but only yelled for a short time, knowing there was more. "It has been a great tradition for the first naming day to be a day of honor and a hope for the future. My naming day gave me my set of armor, my father's gift of Mjolnir and my mother's gift of my helmet. This is the first naming day celebration here on New Asgard. And I wish to follow as many ways of our people as we can."
Tony watched as some Asgardians held their friends and family a little closer.
"I wish to introduce you to the one who saved Asgardians and helped rebuild New Asgard to the status of our old home. Loki, the Prince of New Asgard."
The crowd once more cheered. The visitors all watched a little more intrigued. Tony and Pepper sat up in their seats a bit more as the familiar young boy finally walked into the hall.
He had a shy but happy smile as he stepped next to Thor. The King placed a proud hand on his shoulder as the woman stepped forward from the two. Raising the goblet in her hand.
"To the royals of New Asgard! To the young prince! And to the prosperity of New Asgard!"
"Here here!" Everyone said in unison as they raised their drinks.
"Let the feast begin!" Thor chimed in as he led Loki to the center of the five tables.
Music began to play and everyone instantly went to the amazing food laid before them. The conversations started back up and instantly the festive mood was kicked into high gear. The Asgardians mixed with the visitors pretty well, and vice versa. The officials and other people clearly happy that Thor didn't allow the press to be at the event.
"He looks happy, doesn't he?" Pepper asked as she looked at the table to the left of them.
Tony looked. Thor was at the head of the middle table, Loki to his left and Valkyrie to his right. Loki was listening to the people all around him, happily watching the people all around him.
"He does. Maybe we shouldn't-"
"Don't start second guessing now. Thor already said we could talk to him, we just have to be careful." Pepper spoke. "Everything will be fine."
It didn't matter what issue he had, whenever Pep said anything it made him feel better. He nodded, eyes moving from the woman he loved to the child he betrayed. Green eyes met his gaze for a split second. The boy flinched as he looked away quickly. Those green eyes holding so much emotion.
He couldn't back out now… especially if the kid is thinking anything was his fault.
Tony couldn't just walk up to the table, so he would have to wait. Luckily there was plenty of food to enjoy while he waited for an opportunity. The music playing around them and the smell of food filled the air, making Tony more calm about the situation.
He would bide his time.
Loki really tired his best to ignore Stark, but his nerves were buzzing with nervous energy. He kept his attention on his brother and Lady Brunnhilde.
They spoke of many things that were interesting to say the least. Stories of great battles and hunts. Tales that brought smiles to everyone's faces at their table.
"The warriors three then yelled! Drawing the beast's attention away from me and Lady Sif." Thor spoke on.
A few people rolled their eyes while others continued drinking, everyone was listening intently with a smile on their faces.
"I never saw Fandral so scared. But just when the animal reared up, Sif got its hind legs and I struck right on its head! Welding mighty Mjolnir aloft in my hand!"
Laughs rang out from the table. Some even congratulated Thor for the past victory.
Loki personally didn't like tales of killing, but seeing Thor happy made up for the discomfort.
He could hear other conversations throughout the hall. The other four tables having many stories shared between his people and the Midgardians. As much as Loki didn't want others at the feast… he was happy that it worked out in the end.
His eyes caught a familiar face. Lady Ava speaking with some mortals, clearly enjoying herself. She met his gaze and flashed a calm smile before returning to the conversation she was having.
The feast was a success in Loki's book. Thor had done a good job.
He felt eyes on him again, but they were different… As much as he didn't want to look, he did. Instead of the dark brown eyes, he met the soft blue eyes of a woman's face he thought he would never see.
Lady Pepper looked so sad but once he met her gaze her own eyes widened a bit before she calmed and smiled at him.
Loki flinched and looked away quickly.
Of course he looked at them! He knew they would be the ones looking at him and yet he still looked back.
"Lakey… you okay?" Lady Brunnhilde asked carefully across the table to him.
His attention snapped back to his own table.
"Huh? Oh- yes Lady Valkyrie. Everything is fine."
She raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Come on kid, just keep them behind ya. Besides… I found a fruity drink that someone from England brought."
Something sweet! That easily got his attention.
Thor was still talking but he did eye the two a bit before returning his attention to the others.
Lady Brunnhilde grabbed a small gass, filling it a bit of the drink before sliding it over to Loki.
"It's good, I promise." She said as he eye'd it oddly.
"If you say so…" Loki said as he took a small sip. It tasted like strawberry but was also somehow sour. It tasted like the candy he and Princess Shuri got during Halloween… it was something with an 'S' for sure. Spindles? No… something like that.
"The smile on your face tells me you like it!" She giggled.
A small blush bloomed on his face. "It's better than ale…"
She laughed and the two got back to listening to the others.
Thor knew the time drew to announce Loki's first set.
The party was going great in his opinion. Many were having good times speaking and listening to one another, the people enjoyed the great meals prepared and definitely enjoyed the many drinks and deserts available.
He watched as Valkyrie passed Loki little bits of different drinks and as Loki only ate the sweets provided. He feared that with Stark's presence he would have been tense or nervous the whole night, but luckily with Valkyrie's help, his little brother seemed just fine.
Eventually he knew the time had come to show Loki the amazing surprise he, Valkyrie, and even Princess Shuri had planned.
Thor nodded to the women sitting at his right.
She grabbed her glass and hit it with a spoon, the noise gradually but quickly gained the attention of everyone in the hall. The music quieted down and everyone faced the middle table. Thor stood up and looked over everyone.
"My people, friends, and visitors. I know we are here to celebrate the building of New Asgard and it's completion, but we are here to celebrate an amazing day." Thor's gaze went to his little brother, pride was clear in his blue eyes. "We are here to calibrate the young prince's first naming day!"
The Asgardian people cheered, the mortals simply listened on.
"For as long as we could remember the very first naming day for any in Asgard is an amazing day for all. Their first set of armor is given by the family, their first weapon is assigned, and they will be eligible to go on hunts. But we are no longer on Asgard."
Many in the room grew solemn.
"But we are still here. Asgard was not a place. It is a people. And we will try to follow as many traditions as we are able to do here on Midgard. And as such, it is my honor to bestow for all to witness my little brother's first armor."
Thor pulled out the silver box that Princess Shuri had delivered. He placed it on the table in front of him, Loki's eyes widened. Many people smiled or oh'd and aw'd at the silver box.
"You deserve it Prince Loki!" Someone said from another table, from the slur of their words it was clear they were one of the few more happy with the free drinks being offered.
"Show it with pride, your grace!" Another joined.
Thor laughed a bit before reaching a hand out to the younger of the royals. Just as Thor thought would happen, Loki had a red blush of embarrassment but he still had a happy smile. He took his hand and stood from his chair.
"Go on little one. These were made for you. You must show everyone how they look." Thor encouraged.
"Show us what a prince of New Asgard is!"
"Yes! Show the pride of us!"
Thor laughed as Loki seemed to get redder.
"They will not wait forever Loki." Valkyrie spoke up.
Loki opened the box and Thor would pay to have that face on video. The boy ran his hands over the leather for his new armor. Clearly very pleased with them.
"I made the designs myself you know." Thor chimed in.
"You designed these? With how your first set came out?" Loki replied.
Laughter rippled throughout the hall. Clearly more Asgardians thought the same as his little brother. He would let it slide for now, but that would be something he would talk to Loki about for sure. His first set didn't look that bad… Okay… maybe the helmet.
Loki pulled out the pieces and the hall's eyes took in the amazing armor. The young boys own green eyes glistening with happiness for the contents in the box.
"Well? Put them on Lakey!" Valkyrie cheered on.
"Okay okay!" Loki giggled out. He mouthed a spell and the contents from the box vanished in a green light as Loki himself was enveloped in the familiar green glow that was known by the Asgardians for being of the mischief maker.
The light lasted for a second as it faded, the people in the hall marveled at the boy.
"I think you did a good job this time Brother." Loki said as he looked himself over with pure joy. The dark leather, deep green and shining gold formed on him perfectly. Thor tried not to let tears come to his eyes, for the young boy in front of him now wearing such similar clothing… he knew he had to keep his composure.
More people agreed and laughed along. How many people didn't like his armor for Norns sake.
"That's the savior of New Asgard!"
"Show us your weapon!"
"What's assigned to him King Thor?"
The memories of Father giving him Mjolnir sprung to his mind, he fought with that weapon till it was broken from him before he used something else. He hoped the knives and daggers he got for Loki now would last with him as long.
Loki opened the box of the 12 throwing knives. His green eyes sparkling with excitement for them. So Thor did guess right, when a child he thought Loki would follow in tradition with a sword. Only when Loki finally joined him on hunts did he see the weapon he chose was also different from what others trained in.
He hoped Loki was already looking at knives and blades by this age so he wouldn't mess up Loki's first weapons, like father did. He knows father meant well, but such large swords were never his brother's specialty, let alone liking.
"They are amazing Thor!" Loki said as he lifted one of the small knives, showing it off with wonder to the hall. He then placed it carefully back into the box with the set. Eyes traveling back to the silver case, he lifted the larger black box. Opening it, his jew dropped. He pulled out the set of 2 daggers, moving them around as the light glistened off of them beautifully.
"The perfect choice King Thor!"
"They are meant for him!"
"Nice going Thor." Valkyrie approved.
Loki eagerly nodded. His sharp green eyes traveled to the second to last box, he placed the twin daggers in its black box and turned his attention to the slimmest of the boxes. Lifting it out of the silver box, he slid open the lid.
"I thought this day couldn't get any better!" Loki exclaimed. He lifted the retracted staff, then stepped back from the table. With skill Thor didn't know Loki had, the boy flipped the staff. Perfectly spun the staff and the ever familiar green glow over took the staff, lengthening it to its full form.
"It's beautiful Thor! What is it called?" Loki asked as he retracted the staff back.
"That is for you to decide Loki, It isn't mine to name."
The Asgardians in the room all voiced their agreements, it was tradition after all. Unless the weapon was already named, be it worthy of one, the person who owns it must name it.
Loki looked over the retracted staff. The gears in his head turned so clearly. But soon enough his piercing green eyes lit up.
"Laevatein. I shall call it Laevatein."
The room swelled in cheer. Thor looked over the hall and while his people knew how important a name was, the mortals seemed decently confused. Oh well.
"A wonderful name, Brother." Thor said with pride as he placed a hand on his shoulder. "The Prince of New Asgard! His partner weapon Laevatein! May the Norns look upon us all on this stunning day!"
"May the Norns keep the young prince safe!"
"Norns look after Prince Loki!"
Thor looked down to Loki and his brother looked so happy. He had finally done something right, thank the Norns for gracing him with another chance.
"This feast isn't over yet! May the party continue!" And with that the music swelled once more. Everyone lifted their drinks in a toast, following the lead of Valkyrie.
"To the King and Prince of New Asgard!"
Tony was not about to ruin this party for Loki. He and Pepper had agreed to wait till the feast was over and they were away from prying eyes at the least.
The night wore on but soon enough the many people that partied in the hall eventually drifted away. The Asgardians back to their homes, granted most of those people headed to personal afterparties but the visitors got back on their planes, boats or cars if they lived close enough.
Leaving New Asgard to the Asgardians and the three humans.
Thor, Loki and Valkyrie walked together, heading out of the hall to the town square.
"It's now or never Tony, we have to go." Pepper spoke up, already getting ready to stand. Being 8-ish months pregnant certainly didn't make it easy, Tony saw that much. He nodded and helped her the rest of the way.
The group of Asgardians was ahead of them a bit but Pepper seemed determined enough to catch up.
The night air was fresh, a full moon dancing perfectly with the festive lights around them. No one was around and it was time to do what he promised Pepper he would.
"King Thor!" Tony looked on as Pepper shouted, instantly causing the group to stop. The first to turn was Loki. Thor and Valkyrie stayed behind Loki but did seem more cautious.
"It's time we talked…" Tony spoke up, Peppers soft gaze helping him out.
"Yes. I still don't believe this to be a good idea… but I already agreed." Thor said, his blue eyes kept sharply on Tony. When Thor wanted to be scary, he really could be. "Speak. And be done with this already." Thor continued.
Didn't that just make Tony feel better. He suppressed both a shudder and an eye roll. He looked to the boy.
"Hey… Kid…"
Loki only lowered his eyes more.
"I… uh… I know I said some- um…" He looked at Pepper. All the confidence he had at the dinner was gone completely. She laid a hand on his shoulder and stepped forward herself.
"Loki, It's good to see you again." She started. Loki shifted a bit.
Pepper only smiled on. "You've really helped New Asgard. Was all of this your design?" She asked, marveling at the tall buildings around them.
"It… it wasn't just my ideas."
"The Princess of Wakanda helped you too, right?"
"Yes, Lady Pepper."
Peppers eyes widened at that. "Lady Pepper? You still call me that?"
A small blush formed on the boy's face. "It is appropriate, plus… i-it suits you."
"I forgot just how sweet you are. Can I ask you a question?" Loki nodded, his eyes finally looking up to her. "How did you know I was pregnant? All those months ago, in the letter you left me, you congratulated me."
"I could sense something forming… I figured it was a child." Loki answered. "It seemed I was right. Do… do you know what it is?" Loki asked.
Pepper nodded, a hand resting on her stomach. "It is a girl. We're naming her Morgan."
Loki finally smiled. "It is a wonderful name."
"Loki… I never watched the security footage of that night, I could never bring myself to. But Tony's told me what he said to you." Tony got the message and stepped forward. "He regrets it."
"Kid… I… I don't-"
"I resent everything you said to me." Loki interrupted. His green gaze kept on Tony. "It was not the first time you said such things, and I fear it won't be the last." The boy stepped forward, the hand Thor had on his shoulder slipped off. "You've made me doubt myself, my family, and my people."
The words tore into Stark, he should have expected this.
"And I hope you realize you were wrong. About everything you said."
"Kid… I can never take back what I said to you-"
"No. You can't. I won't let you."
Tony flinched.
"It was wrong and hurtful and stupid for you to have said those things. I refuse to let you take it back. The pain and confusion you put me through, the doubts and the questioning thoughts you put in my head can never be taken back. And you need to realize that."
"I do- I really do!" Tony knew the shamed feeling would be back, what he didn't think is that it would be back ten fold. He had hoped he could make things right with Thor and Loki. Put it in the past and move on. He felt himself shaking a little, and he lost his nerve. How could he even look the kid in the eye anymore.
"Stark. Do you remember what you told me." Loki asked as he stepped closer.
He couldn't even answer, he only nodded his head.
"You spoke such horrible things that night." The boy moved another step.
"I- I know…"
"It hurt. Every word that came out of your mouth."
"Loki… please."
"I won't let you take them back. You don't get to have those words forgiven… but you can make a change now." Tony flinched as Loki grabbed his hand. He took an involuntary step back, but the kids hand stayed. "Look at me Stark."
Slowly, he brought it head up. The deep rich green eyes watched.
"You can't take them back, but those words don't have to be the only words that come to mind when I think of you."
"I'm so sorry…"
Tony's vision blurred. Of course he was crying. He just had to cry. But the kid only reached his other hand to his cheek. "Those words can never be forgiven… but I think I can take a step in forgiving you." Loki spoke as he smiled.
"Kid… I don't deserve this-"
"No. It's Loki that doesn't deserve anything." A chill ran down his spin. In an instant all the golden lights went out. Bathing the group in darkness, a saving grace for light was the moon that hung in the sky.
Thor and Valkyrie were at Loki's side in a heartbeat. Weapons in hand and poised for a fight. Everyone looked around, eyes scanning for any movement.
"Thor… am I the only one who recognizes that voice?"
"No. You are not." The Asgardian answered quietly.
Tony moved Pepper behind him, Thor did the same with Loki. Tony, Thor and Valkyrie unconsciously formed a circle around Pepper and the kid.
"He's only playing innocent. He has nowhere to run." The sound of something quick whipped in the air, stopping in the between Pepper and Loki.
An odd ticking noise reached everyone's ears.
Tony's eyes traveled to the object, a blinking red light tipped him off on exactly what was just shot at them.
"Move! Now!" Tony yelled, pulling Pepper while Thor reached for Loki. The group ran just in time as a bright light flashed behind them, the resounding boom proving Tony's theory.
Someone shot an exploding arrow at them. And Tony knew exactly who shot it.
Standing above them from an empty balcony stood the hawk in his nest.
"Clint…"