Disclaimer: I do not own anything related to the Marvel Universe, The Amazing Stan Lee and Joss Whedon, or anyone else involved with the movies or comics. I am not making any profits from this writing, it is all for the purposes of fun and creative writing.
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Chapter 9
It was late afternoon over Asgard and the clouds had not let up one bit. They still hung over the golden city and let loose the occasional light flurry of frozen flakes, but at least the frigid winds had died down. At the palace Thor walked with Jane by his side and the Avengers and Darcy and Selvig in a loose circle behind them. Thor was giving them all a tour of the palace grounds after they had enjoyed a quiet lunch together in the common room, Thor having asked that the food be brought up to the room instead of everyone going down to the main dining hall. They would all be in the main dining hall once it was dinner time anyway.
A good distance away from all of them, the Warriors three and Lady Sif followed somberly, each of them casting forlorn looks at the warm group they had been poignantly left out of. As they walked they could not help but feel that this was karmic retribution. Did Loki ever feel like this? So excluded from the warmth of friendship, left in the cold while those you wanted so badly to be with could care less?
As they walked, all four warriors were starting to understand why Thor had so thoroughly renounced them. They could barely stand a single moment of what they were going through as they walked behind Thor and his friends. If they couldn't stand it, how could they have expected a young green-eyed boy with raven-hair and a shy smile to fair any better? Regret filled each heart, but what good would it do them now? It was a harsh lesson they were learning, and it did not look like it would be ending anytime soon if the looks Thor had given each of them as he had passed by were anything to go on. They had made their beds, now they were gonna have to lay in them.
" I gotta say Thor, your landscaping's not too shabby." Tony said with a genuinely appreciative look, that quickly turned into a cheeky grin as he earned scoffs and eye-rolls all around.
" Yes Man of Iron, mother does have an eye for making sure that palace grounds always look their best." Thor said with a warm smile showing obvious pride in the woman in question.
" If you don't mind me asking, how is she doing?" Steve asked carefully.
They all watched as Thor's face immediately dimmed. With a heavy sigh Thor shook his head and spoke.
" My friends, she grieves bitterly for my brother, her emotions can only be described as volatile. One moment she will be more or less herself, calm and collected, the next moment she will be weeping her heart out, and then the moment after that she is flying into this fit of utter rage, terrifying those around her and wanting to pay the vile maggot who caused all of this a visit down in the dungeons where he lays crippled and chained. Mother's mood now has become so very unpredictable, and father is trying his best to maintain some semblance of order, but I can see that it is all very difficult for him as well, he grieves too."
A sadness fell over the group at this, all of them understanding that the grief of a mother was an unparalleled thing. They couldn't even begin to imagine what the Queen of Asgard was going through. As they walked, Thor spoke, his face brightening somewhat.
" Mother was most pleased to hear that all of you have accepted so readily Loki's innocence, and that you all elected to join me here on Asgard. She looks forward to meeting you tonight at the evening meal."
" It'll be our honor to finally meet her Thor." Clint said, sending the Thunderer a sad smile.
" I thank you kindly. But that is later, as for now, would all of you like to go to the stables and meet Sleipnir?" Thor asked.
" Wait, are you saying the spider-horse is real?" Tony asked, his eyes wide.
" You know of my father's steed friend Tony?" Thor asked.
" Do I ever." Tony said, a mischievous glint in his brown eyes.
As they made their way to the stables as Thor had suggested, Tony regaled Thor and everyone else with the myth concerning Sleipnir and just who his mother is supposed to be. By the time they had all reached the stables, some people were red in the face as they tried to hold their laughter in out of respect, all eyes on Thor to see what kind of reaction he'd have. They all just stood their staring at the God of Thunder, who had his face held carefully neutral. Just as Tony started to think that he might be destined to get Mjolnir smashed into his face, it was like Thor just blinked and then his whole face was lighting up as he laughed out-loud.
Everyone else was stunned for but a moment before they were all joining in, albeit quietly, even Natasha allowed herself a small smile as they watched Thor smile genuinely for the first time in what had really been ages. When Thor had calmed down enough, he was still chuckling as he spoke.
" Oh, by the Norns, my fondness for your realm has grown tenfold. You honestly have legends about my brother giving birth to my father's horse?" Thor laughed.
" Yeah dude, we sure do." Tony chuckled.
" Well I can tell you now that it is certainly not true in any way. My brother never transformed himself into a horse and had relations with a stallion. I started that rumor just to get back at him for sassing me this one time. Yes there was a great stallion by the name of Svadilfari who was the strongest steed we had every seen, but in order to keep him from completing the great wall and humiliating father, Loki was the one who used his magic and created this gorgeous white mare to tempt Svadilfari away from his task. Naturally things happened and by the end of it Loki, who stayed close by to the mare he created returned with a dark, spindly little foal with eight-legs while Svadilfari no doubt claimed the mare as his own. Loki presented the foal to father as a gift, and so Sleipnir became the prized and cherished steed of the king."
It was here that Thor's eyes suddenly dimmed of their mirth, a sadness once more marring the brightness that had shone through as he remembered the not so funny side of that who event.
" I made fun of Loki terribly for using his magic, instead of appreciating his cleverness and the fact that it was only through his efforts that Asgard was spared utter humiliation, I belittled him and spread the rumor that it was he who had turned himself into a mare and bedded Svadilfari, that he was the mother of Sleipnir, because I thought it would be funny."
The humor was gone now, completely and utterly decimated by Thor's words. Tony was regretting that he had ever opened his mouth, but then with a look of determination, he strode forward and gripped Thor's shoulder as he spoke.
" Hey buddy, I was just trying to cheer you up cause I remembered hearing the story while I was a kid, about a god who turned himself into a horse, got knocked up, and gave birth to an eight-legged stallion. I bet that if Loki were here now, he'd probably have blown a gasket that we lowly mortals knew about that whole thing." Tony said, giving Thor's armor covered arm a solid pat.
" Aye Man of Iron, I would have to agree with you that Loki would not have been to pleased. I'm sure he would have turned my hair green or made my eyebrows disappear by now. He had done such things before in the past after I had embarrassed him. I have to remember that while I did hurt him with the rumor I spread, even Loki found it within himself to forgive me and even learned to find the humor in it too." Thor said, sending an appreciative look Tony's way before he relived where they were.
" Speaking of the eight-legged horse in question, we have reached Sleipnir's lodgings." Thor said as he gestured to the rather large stone building behind him.
" That's all for one horse?" Clint asked incredulously as they all looked up at the stable that looked more like a small mansion.
" Yes actually, it is built primarily for my father's steed, but there is plenty of room for the ordinary horses such as the one's we rode into the city on, they keep Sleipnir company, for a horse is a horse regardless of sized and number of legs." Thor replied with a smile as he led the way inside through the massive arched doorway.
The moment they all laid eyes on Sleipnir in his stall, the mortals stood flabbergasted by the sheer size of him. He was just about the height of a three story house. Massive yet elegantly built, magnificent with a lustrous midnight black coat, splashes of white on the fur above his eight behemoth hooves that pawed at the dirt every now and then. He munched at the substantial amount of hay and oats that filled his trough, not really caring about the spectators gawking at him.
" How the heck does your dad ride that thing?" Clint asked in awe.
" Simple, my father just uses his magic to enlarge himself to adequate size and gets on, once he's bridled and saddled Sleipnir of course." Thor replied, smiling fondly at the looks of wonder on the faces of his friends. Even Natasha looked impressed by the mythic animal.
After that, Thor regaled his friends with tales of the many victorious battles Sleipnir faithfully carried Odin through, every bit the great war horse.
" If he friendly?" Steve asked, lamenting once more that he did not have his sketch pad with him so that he court capture the magnificent creature he was beholding.
" Not particularly, most of the hands try not to get to close because of his size, mostly it is father he allows." Thor explained, then a sad, nostalgic smile crossed his face.
" Although he would always allow Loki to pet him, probably because Loki was in a way his creator. I would find him in hear many time just talking to Sleinir, even showing him the latest magic spell he had perfected. My brother would sit right up there." Thor pointed to the highest behemoth railing of the stall in which Sleipnir stood.
" So your brother kinda was his mom." Tony said in an effort to lift the mood, and to his silent delight it words as Thor gave a quiet chuckle. The others joined in quietly, but their chuckles were fast drowned out by a low, thundering knicker that had all eyes turning back to Sleipnir.
The great war horse was now watching them all with dark, surprisingly soulful eyes, no longer disinterestedly chewing on hay. It was almost like he was staring right into each and every one of them, from Thor all the way to Darcy. There was this sort of silent impasse where nobody from the horse to the bipeds moved, and then Sleipnir blinked and let out another rumbling knicker before he leaned his great head forward over the low rail of his stall, his muzzle coming so close that his hot breath breezed over the group.
From where they stood at a distance, the warriors three and Sif stood stunned, and also alarmed. They had never before seem Sleipnir take an interest in anyone who came to visit him beside Odin and Loki, and now here the great horse was with his muzzle mere feet from Thor and the Midgardians. The four warriors watched on tensely, waiting to see what would happen, and ready to defend should anything turn violent because the potential was obviously there.
The impasse went on for what seemed like hours, and then before anyone could stop her Jane stepped forward with her hand outstretched. Thor and the others all moved to stopped her but instead watched stunned as Sleipnir accepted her touch, letting out a soft, rumbling knicker as Jane, who looked comically small before the great steed of Odin, gently petted his muzzle. As Jane let out a breathless laugh at herself, not truly believing that she was actually petting a giant eight-legged horse, the others all relaxed. Sleipnir allowing Jane to pet him started a chain. After Jane, Steve stepped up and gently laid his hand over the soft fur, smiling up at the great horse who made him look so small for once. Clint and Natasha followed after him, and then Bruce who laughed softly with relief when the horse didn't turn away from him. Even Tony stepped up and gave "Spiderhorse" a friendly pat. Darcy and Selvig each beamed up at the great stallion, who seemed to be quietly enjoying the attention. Then finally, Thor stepped forward. Very slowly, Thor reached out to pet the great stallion's muzzle, but Sleipnir caught the Thunderer off guard when he leaned forward and pressed his great muzzle to the whole of Thor's front, nuzzling the son of his rider with surprising gentleness. When Thor looked up into Sleipnir's black coffee hued eyes, he felt a jolt go through him.
" You miss him too, don't you boy?" Thor said as he pressed both hands to the great muzzle, feeling his heart both swell and bleed as Sleipnir let out a soft little whine that reverberated through Thor's whole body, as if the horse was answering him that yes, he missed Loki too.
The others watched on, sad but warmed by the sight. Even Tony, who could have come with a thousand inappropriate jokes about men and horses was silent as he watched Thor smile up at Sleipnir with a grateful look on his face.
" You are a piece of him that still remains." Thor whispered reverently while the mortals looked on in respectful silence.
From where they stood the warriors three, Lady Sif, and the stable attendants were all stunned that Sleipnir, who would only let Odin and Loki near him and would literally try to stomp on all others had allowed the Midgardians to pet him and was now nuzzling Thor lovingly. The four warriors could not help but feel the barest sliver of envy worm its way into their hearts, but they really had no one but themselves to blame. While Thor found them unworthy of his company now, Sleipnir had seen them that way long ago. It made their already bowed head bow lower metaphorically if not literally.
Some time later...
" Thanks so much for showing us around Thor." Steve said to Thor as they all made there way back up to Thor's floor where they would all be staying.
" Think nothing of it Friend Steve." Thor said warmly as they reached the doors that led to the guest rooms that had been provided for the mortals and they all filed into the common room.
" Hey Thor, if you don't mind me asking, what are we supposed to wear for dinner here in Asgard?" Clint asked, looking a bit nervous.
" Rest easy friend Barton, for tonight is not a formal feast, you shall wear whatever you feel is appropriate attire." Thor said simply, then his face darkened somewhat.
" However, tomorrow is indeed another matter."
" What do you mean Thor?" Jane asked.
" Tomorrow shall be the start of Asgard's days of formally mourning my brother, during a special ceremony my father will summon Hela, the Queen of Nifelheim before us all and ask for my brother's soul, for he does not belong in the realm of the dishonored dead. It would have happened sooner had I not elected to try and convince Jotunheim and Midgard of my brother's innocence." Thor replied before he shook his head sadly.
" I think a part of me just did not wish to face the reality that I am to partake in my brother's last rites, but it is inevitable. I'm probably just being foolish."
" Hey man don't say that, nobody in their right mind every looks forward to having to say goodbye to somebody they love, especially when they've lost that person so senselessly like you lost Loki." Steve said as he placed a reassuring hand on Thor's slumped shoulder.
Thor sent Steve a grateful look before he took a moment to steady the many emotions that had risen up inside of him. Once he had composed himself, Thor spoke, addressing Clint's earlier question.
" As I was saying, for tonight's evening meal you wear your own attire, but for tomorrow you will be provided with Asgardian attire."
" Uh Thor, not to be a downer and all but how would you guys know our sizes and what not?" Tony asked incredulously.
" Be at ease friend Tony, Mother, despite the obvious strain she is under is still a goddess capable of many great feats. All she has to do is gaze upon you tonight, then she and her hand-maidens shall do the rest. Besides, you are but a group of eight, she will have created appropriate attire for you all within the hour." Thor explained, with pride in his mother showing once more.
The mortals were all left stunned by this, and it was Steve who spoke for all.
" Thor, you're mother doesn't have to do that for us, she has enough to deal with."
" Think nothing of it my friends, Mother wants to do this for you all. It is my Mother's wish that she be allowed to make for you such stately garments so that all of Asgard will know that you are our honored guests, and if I were completely honest, I think she also wants to focus her mind on something she loves to do. My mother is grateful beyond measure that all of you have come here, she tells me that weaving for you all some garments is the least she could do." Thor said quietly.
The Avengers, and Jane, Darcy, and Selvig all sat stunned. Never before had any of them felt so humbled as they were feeling now, after learning what Thor's mother, a grieving mother was willing to do for them. It made they very idea of refusing her nauseating.
" Geez man, she still really shouldn't have to do any of that, we all brought our suits with us just in case ya know?" Clint said, a faint flush of color to his cheeks as he rubbed at the back of his neck. Around him the others were trying just as hard not to show how touched they were by the gesture of Asgard's Queen.
" Aye, but once Mother has made up her mind, you would be hard-pressed to change it. " Thor said smiling.
The others all shared a quiet chuckle at that, figuring that this was where Thor probably got his stubbornness from, but wisely decided not to comment. After that Thor took his leave of everyone. They all knew he was probably going to his room to be alone for a little while, maybe try and process some things further, and they couldn't blame him for that for had any of them been in the Thunderer's position they too would be overwhelmed and need a little quiet time to themselves.
After Thor left, the mortals all decided to check out their bedrooms more thoroughly since they had a couple of hours to kill before Thor would get them for dinner. They were all collectively please that each room had an adjoining bathroom that would put any five-star hotel to shame, and perhaps irked a certain genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, but otherwise spectacular. Each room had a large, circular balcony that collectively gave them all a near panoramic view of Asgard, from the Bifrost glittering in the distance, to the sweeping towers and spires of other grand buildings in the surrounding area.
Bruce elected to sit quietly and meditate, keep his other self calm so as not to end up loosing control when he would be meeting Thor's mother, Tony lounged on his bed and poked at the Starkpad he had brought with him, definitely surprise that he was getting wifi here of all places. Well that's a magical realm for you, anything was possible. Natasha opted to try out the luxurious looking tub, while Steve was glad to have found some blank sheets of paper. The pencils came courtesy of himself, always packed a couple just in case. Now the Super Soldier sat in a chair by the balcony and was sketching away, capturing the beauty of the Asgardian cityscape. Clint decided to test out the bed early and conked out. Meanwhile, Jane, Darcy, and Selvig decided to commiserate on Jane's balcony and talk quietly about their scientific theories concerning Asgard, but it was dimmed since they were not here for a happy occasion and did not think it appropriate to ask if they could maybe learn more about the Bifrost and other feats of magic and inter-realm travel. They could always ask later, but for now the thought that was on everyones mind was how their first meeting with Thor's mother would go. She was the Queen of this whole realm after all, they couldn't help but feel a bit daunted by that.
Some hours later...
Steve did up the last button to the simple green checked shirt he had decided to wear with tan slacks, over this he donned his signature brown leather jacket. It was his go to look mainly because he didn't really own much else, and he hadn't brought suit. He gave himself the once over in the large standing mirror that stood beside the desk in his temporary lodgings, swiped a gently hand over his neatly combed hair and gave a small huff before he left his room to go to the common area where they had all agreed to stay until Thor came calling.
In his room Tony slipped on simple black suit jacket over the Ramones t-shirt and jeans he had donned. Thor did say it would be informal, and besides, the suit was for the outward persona of Tony Stark meant for the large crowds and screaming fans. This was the Tony Stark that he wanted Frigga to see, the friend maybe the genius, but not the cocky billionaire. Okay maybe a little bit of the cocky billionaire, he was Tony Stark after all.
Natasha stood before the mirror in her room and gave herself a final once over. Ever one to be prepared for multiple situations, the assassin had backed herself a simple, yet elegant little black dress with long sleeves and a modest v-neck. The hemline came to just above her knees, but overall it was actually quiet demure looking in conjunction with the simple pumps and minimal makeup. She looked ready to meet royalty by Midgardian standards, but she may have hidden a knife or two somewhere on her, just out of habit. She was Black Widow after all.
Clint was just about done too, deciding to be a bit more formal than his usual fair of t-shirt and jeans. He wore black slacks and a charcoal gray dress shirt. Rolling the sleeves up to just past his elbow, Clint gave himself a nod and headed out the door. In his room Bruce was dressed about the same as clint, dark gray slacks and one of his usual purple button-ups. Over this he threw on a simple blazer. In her room Jane was going through a panic while Darcy, dressed in a simple white sweater and black tights with ankle lengths boots looked on, resisting the urge to roll her eyes as she watched Jane put on the simple navy blue dress she had brought with her only to take it off and put on a sweater too, only to take that off and but the blue dress back on.
" Stick with the blue, you can never go wrong with it, plus I want to get out of here some time this century you know?" Darcy said exasperatedly.
" Do I look okay?" Jane asked and she nervously straightened and tugged at non-existent wrinkles in her dress, over which she threw on black quarter-sleeve shrug.
" You look just fine Jane, quit being so nervous, it's just dinner." Darcy said with a smile as she started pulling Jane towards the door.
" Dinner with Thor's parents, who happen to be king and queen of Asgard." Jane said, although she smiled too as she and Darcy stepped out of her room.
" Hey Erik." Jane smiled as Dr. Selvig stepped out of his room a few moments after they did, dressed in the dark brown suit he had brought with him.
" Hey Jane, Darcy, you guys ready?" He asked as the three of them walked to the common area where they could here familiar voices already speaking.
" As ready as we'll ever be." Darcy sighed.
" Just really hope I don't put my foot in my mouth." Jane said.
" Just be yourself Jane, that's what helped Thor get his powers back when he was banished, it should help you make a good impression with the king and queen." Selvig assured as they entered the common area.
It eased some of Jane's nerves when she saw the Avengers and what they were wearing, all of them looking cleaned up and all, but still normal.
The group that was already in the common area welcomed the last three members of their group cordially enough, if somewhat subdued. They carried on in quiet conversation, mostly about Frigga and how awesome they though she already was despite having not met her personally just yet.
" Are we gonna have to curtsey?" Tony asked, earning some chuckles here and there, and of course a long suffering eye-roll from Steve.
Then there was a knock on the door that had all eyes turning in time to see Thor walk in. Gone was the imposing black armor and cape. The only thing that remained unchanged was the necklace around Thor's neck, still almost glowing ethereal against his collarbone. Now Thor wore a simple tunic with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows over which was a long black knitted long vest-coat that reached just above the back of his knees. Simple black leather pants and knee-length boots finished out the look. Thor's usually flowing blond locks were pulled back into a tight and impeccably neat ponytail to finish out the look. But what struck everyone the most was that the while everything else Thor was wearing was black, the tunic/shirt he had on was a familiar shade of green.
Thor, usually resplendent in his bright reds and silver now stood in the colors of the dear one he had lost. Loki's colors of green and black. Thor smiled at his friends as he stepped into their midst.
" Good evening my friends, Jane." Thor said as he reached out and took Jane's hand into his own, pressing a light kiss to it before letting it go.
" Hey." Jane said with a smile.
" You look nice Thor." Darcy said, feeling as if she just needed to say that.
" Thank you lady Darcy, mother and father shall be wearing these colors too." Thor said with a small sigh, his face clouding over for a moment before he snapped himself out of it and looked around the room.
" Well Big Guy, are we presentable?" Tony asked with a quirk of his lips, although there may have been a small niggling of nervousness that they might not be properly attired.
" Not to worry Man of Iron, for all of you look perfectly alright, as I said before this is not a formal event, so be easy." Thor assured before he let out a small huff and spoke.
" Come, let us go to the hall, father and mother shall join us there." Thor said as he offered Jane his well-built arm.
With that Thor proceeded to lead the way to the hall in which they would be having tonight's meal with Odin, Frigga, and perhaps some members of the council or what have you.
" Hey Thor, not to make you mad or anything, but are the Warriors 3 and Lady Sif gonna be there?" Darcy asked hesitantly.
" You need not worry Lady Darcy, for I am not angered by your inquiry." Thor said quietly, then with a sigh he continued, his face darkening a little.
" The four in question are allowed to join us tonight, they are among the best of Asgard's warriors after all. But I have made it clear that all I wish to do tonight is have the evening meal with my parents and all of you, and that they are not to approach unless there is some absolute need."
" Don't worry Thor, I think that would be best for me too. Ever since you told us about how those four guys were with Loki, the other guy's been making his desire to smash loud and clear." Bruce said with a tired smile as the others looked to him with varying degrees of concern.
" Don't worry, I've got him calmed down to where we'll all be safe, even them." Bruce assured as they all reached the main flight of stairs that would lead them downstairs.
" At least we'll have worked up an appetite by the time we get there." Tony thought and it sort of was a long walk in all honesty, but this was a palace after all. It couldn't be helped.
Thor led them onward, answering any question that was asked about the palace, what would be served, what was to be expected on them, which surprisingly wasn't much, just be sensitive and respectful.
" My friends, we are here." Thor said, and gestured to the arched doorway that stood up ahead. When they had all stepped over the threshold into the room, the mortals all collectively stopped and stared.
" This is what you call an informal dinner?" Steve asked with his eyebrows disappearing up into his hairline.
The others all silently agreed as they took in the table that spanned nearly the length of the whole room with attached benches on either side, elegantly designed in the Asgardian fashion. Atop this table was a spread of food that would have made any royalty of Midgard green with envy.
" Well yes friend Steve, for we are not in the formal dining hall." Thor explained as he led the way towards the head of the long table, where four intricately carved chairs stood in a half circle, one of them more grand then its fellows, no doubt the seat Odin would occupy shortly.
The hall was filled with many members of Asgard's court and the king's council, all of whom bowed as Thor passed and nodded to the Avengers and Jane, Darcy, and Selvig, eying the mortals with a respectful curiosity that left little doubt that the mortals could all look forward to a boatload of questions and conversation coming their way. In one corner of the room Sif and the Warriors Three bowed to Thor, who barely spared them a glance. The others all nodded back to the floor, Steve sending them an apologetic look, to which Volstaag gave him a grateful, yet saddened smile, while the other three warriors looked on forlornly.
Thor pointedly stood with Jane and the others as the other Asgardian's in the room came forward and made there introductions and small talk. Many members of Odin's advisory council came to thank the mortals for coming to Asgard during such a somber time, and also asked how Midgard was fairing in the wake of the failed invasion. Perhaps Thor being so close by served as a warning to those who may have had it in mind to maybe make a snide comment veiled beneath pleasantries from doing so, but the overall feel the mortals got was that the Asgardians were genuinely welcoming and respected them for voluntarily coming to their realm with their Prince as they had.
A low thud had everyone freezing and all conversation ceasing abruptly, and all eyes turned to see four royal guards walk into the hall in tight formation, their gold-colored capes billowing around them as they fell away to reveal Odin himself, dressed in fine robes of gold and forest green, with an absolutely stunning woman holding his hand.
Frigga, Queen of Asgard.
Thor's mother looked resplendent in a long, flowing emerald green gown with nearly floor-length bell-sleeves the hems of which had a delicate golden embroidery over them. At Frigga's waste was a delicate looking belt of gold in a woven design. Around Frigga's neck was a gold necklace shaped almost like a horse-shoe, easily recognizable to everyone as a replica of the gold chest embellishment Loki always wore. Simple gold studs at her earlobes were the only other accessory the queen wore. Frigga's long, dark blond hair was done up in an elegant half-up, half-down style, the loose part cascading down over one shoulder in soft waves and curls. She looked every bit the regal and dignified queen of Asgard as she walked besides the All-Father, but it was her eyes that gave away that she was not all together composed.
There was a weariness to her clear blue eyes, just like Thor's, and a slight redness to them that was indication enough that she had been crying.
As they all gazed upon Thor's mother, the mortals as one felt a dull ache radiate through them. She was putting on a brave face, and it humbled them all that this woman, under such tremendous heartache could still look so elegant and composed.
" Mother." Thor said as he stepped before her.
" My son." Frigga said with a sad smile as she let go of her husband's hand and reached out for her son.
The whole hall stayed in respectful silence as they watched Thor hug his mother tightly, whispering words of love in her ear before they drew back. Frigga's smile saddened further as he eyes fell on the bright pendant that hung from Thor's neck, her hand going to reverently graze her finger's over Loki's final gift to his brother. Thor reached up and covered his mother's hand, pressing it to his heart as he spoke.
" Mother, may I introduce to you the friends who have been most helpful to me?" Thor asked quietly.
" Of course my son, I am most eager to meet those who came all the way from Midgard to pay their respects." Frigga said softly as she allowed Thor to lead her to the group of eight.
" My friends, I present to you my mother, Frigga, Queen of Asgard." Thor said, pride showing in his voice despite the sadness that seemed his perpetual companion these days.
As one all of the mortals, from Tony all the way to Darcy bowed in near perfect unison.
" Rise my dears." Frigga said warmly as she left Thor's side and stepped forward.
" It's an honor to finally meet you, your highness." Steve said after he and the others stood up.
" I am equally honored to finally meet the heroes of Midgard, and the three who helped my son reclaim his godhood." Frigga said warmly, her voice silvery and radiant over the mortals.
After that Thor took over, introducing his mother to each person. Frigga smiled, exuding quiet dignity and warmth, pausing with each person so that her magic could familiarize itself with each of them, for she would need to know their measurements and body-types for the task she had set out for herself. With her magic and skills it would not take Frigga long to make the stately attire for Thor's friends.
Tony added on a bit of his charm and much to his and everyone else's delight he managed to coax a quiet chuckle from the grieving Queen. Of course Frigga was quick to turn the tables on Tony and make him blush a bit when she told him that he reminded her of Odin in his youth, when he was trying to court her, with all the grace of an elephant in a fine china shop. Frigga's smile grew when Thor introduced Jane to her, the mortal woman stunned but grateful when Frigga embraced her fully and thanked her, Darcy, and Selvig for teaching Thor the humility and selflessness that allowed him to earn back Mjolnir and his powers. Natasha and Frigga shared a moment of mutual respect for one another, while Clint was nearly a stuttering mess before the Queen. When it was Bruce's turn, Frigga leaned in close so that she could whisper her thanks to both him, and to the Hulk for the fine job he did of smashing Menkos into the floor as he had done. Before it had pained her to even think about how Loki had felt, but after all that had been revealed, Frigga had been vocal in expressing her fondness for the green behemoth who had thoroughly trounced her son's murderer.
" Rest assured, I will make you all the finery you are deserving of." Frigga said warmly.
" Again your majesty, there was absolutely no need for you to do something like this for us, but since it's clear we can't change your mind, I speak for everyone when I say thank you so much for your kindness ma'am." Steve said, while their were nods and sounds of agreement around him.
" It is us who should be expressing our thanks to you, warriors of Midgard, for electing to join us here on Asgard during this time of hardship." Odin said as he wrapped his arm around Frigga's shoulder and held her close.
" Thor asked us to come, there was no way we could say no to that." Clint said simply, sending Thor a smile, which Thor returned with a look of quiet appreciation the archer's way.
" It proves how honorable you all for you have chosen to stand by my son during these trying days." Odin said with a warmth in his eye and a small smile on his lips.
" We're here for you too your majesty." Natasha said, surprising everyone, but they could tell she meant it.
Odin looked to Natasha, and then to each and ever mortal around her. He didn't said anything for a moment, but from the way his arm tightened around Frigga and the subtle tightening of his beard-covered jaw, they could all see that Thor's father appreciated the red-head's words.
" I thank you all for the respect you have shown me and my family. Now please, let us all sit and partake in the evening meal." Odin said with a nod before he and Frigga turned to step over to the chairs that awaited them.
Everyone else followed suit, Jane coming to stand beside Thor stood. Beside her stood Steve, then Tony, then Bruce, followed by Darcy and Selvig, and then Natasha and Clint finishing out the group down the long bench. Several seats down towards the middle of the long table, Volstaag, Hogun, Fandral, and Sif all stood mutely, facing the side of the table where the mortals stood, distinctly feeling how removed they were.
As they stood flanking the sides of the table, waiting to be seated, all eyes naturally turned to the single intricately carved chair that stood empty between Frigga and Thor, a quiet yet poignant reminder that there was someone missing from among them, someone who should not be gone forever as he was.
Jane reached out and gently took one of Thor's large hands into her tiny one when she saw the way Thor was gazing at the empty chair beside him with pained eyes, giving it a firm squeeze in silent reassurance. In reply Thor squeezed Jane's hand back, sending her, and those after her a grateful look. This look was mirrored by Frigga who watched the interaction with a small, sad smile.
She took Odin's hand when he offered it to her, and then with the grace of having been married for so long and done it so many times, the King and Queen of Asgard gracefully took their seats beside each other, and then Odin spoke.
" Be seated all." He said, his voice resonating through the hall as he made a light gesture with his hand.
Thor and everyone else followed suit, all of them taking their seats. After that quiet conversation soon filled the hall as plates and goblets were filled with food and mead, cutlery lightly clinking against dinnerware as people started to eat.
The atmosphere was pleasant, but notedly subdued. That didn't stop Tony from cracking a few tame jokes here and there, earning quiet chuckles, even a half a smile from Odin. Odin asked them many questions about the battle against the Chitauri, while the Avengers all asked their own careful questions about a certain green-eyed trickster they never really got a chance to meet.
By the time the meal had drawn to a close, Clint may or may not have been a bit buzzed after just one glass of mead, but thankfully he was not completely trashed and Natasha was there keeping an eye on him. Ironically, Tony was the exact opposite, having taken only one sip of mead and deemed it something he didn't want to try again. Jane, Darcy, and Selvig were all a buzz with contained excitement, Jane having been brave enough to ask Odin if they could learn about the Bifrost at a later date, to which Odin had been more than happy to agree to. He told them they were free to return to Asgard with Thor the next time he visited Midgard, but for now they all agreed it would not be appropriate. Steve had taken a shine to the mead too, pleasantly surprised that it had an effect on him, where as all other alcohol had done absolutely nothing since his metabolism was superhuman and all. Bruce had been pleased when he was told that he could go down to the training grounds at the back of the palace should the Hulk deem to make an appearance and see Asgard for himself.
With a final round of affectionate thanks, Frigga took her leave of everyone, no doubt going to get started on the task she had appointed to herself. They all watched her as she seemed to almost float away around a corner and disappear from the hall. Odin too took his leave shortly after his wife, explaining that he had best get as much rest as possible, for tomorrow would be a most trying day.
Thor led his friends back upstairs, his sadness growing with each passing moment. He looked just about ready to let the tears fall as he once again thanked them all for coming and then took his leave, pausing to give Jane a tender kiss on the lips before he turned and all but fled down the hallway to the privacy of his rooms. The Avengers, Jane, Darcy, and Selvig all watched him go, their own hearts heavy as they wished they could do more for Thor. But it was beyond them now, the most they could do now was be there for Loki's funeral tomorrow.
Needless to say, sleep did not come very easily, if at all for any of them that night. Troubled thoughts and grief mingling with a sense of dread for what kind of pain and heartache tomorrow would bring.
The next morning...
The eight mortals had all just returned to their rooms after having breakfast in the same hall as the one they had eaten dinner in the night before, unsurprisingly with Thor, Odin, and Frigga conspicuously absent. The warriors three and Lady Sif had been the one's to bring them down, all of them looking pale and drawn, already dressed in dark versions of their normally bright armor and clothing. There was a definite pall quiet sorrow in the air now, that seemed to blanket every hall of the palace.
While they were all quietly lounging about the common area, there was a loud knock on the door. Bruce who was closest answered it, opening the door to reveal eight somber looking young maidens, all dressed in black flowing dresses, each of them holding a moderately large, ornately carved wooden box in their arms.
" Come in, please." Bruce said as he stepped aside and held the door open for the ladies to step through.
With nods that seemed almost synchronized, the ladies calmly filed into the room one right after the other. Bruce shut the door after the last young woman was inside and hurried to rejoin the others.
" Her majesty the Queen sends you all her regards. She has made for you these garments, which you are to wear to today's ceremony of lamentation." The lead maiden said somberly.
There was a beat of silence as all eyes went to the boxes each maid was holding. Expressions grew sad all around as Steve stepped forward.
" We are honored." He said simply.
" Please tell her majesty this for us." Tony said.
" As you wish." The head maiden said with a small smile before she looked over her shoulder and nodded to her fellows.
As one the maidens broke rank, and each made their way over to one of the mortals. It was then that they all saw that, carved into the center atop each box a maiden held was a symbol the represented each of them.
For Steve, there was a replica of his shield with a star front and center. On Tony's box was the arch reactor, perfectly carved. Natasha's box had the symbol she always wore on her belt, while Clint's held a symbol that looked exactly like his high-powered bow with and arrow drawn and ready to fly. Bruce smiled when he saw that the symbol on his box was a meaty, clenched fish that seemed like it was almost bursting out from within the box. Jane blinked back tears when she saw the miniature Bifrost bridge that was carved into her box, while Darcy bit back a giggle when she saw the carving of her phone etched into her box. And finally, Erik Selvig smiled sadly as he eyes the symbol on his box, an open picture book with the scenes of Odin carved into the pages.
" We have been tasked with preparing you, let us proceed." The head maiden said.
Each mortal lead the maiden assigned to them into their bedroom and took the box from the young woman. Everybody from Steve to Darcy elected to take the box and change bathroom and then let the maidens do their correcting and adjusting.
Steve had never felt such comfortable fabric in all his life. He ran his hand down the sleeve of his other arm while the maiden made her adjustments to his wardrobe with utter professionalism and silence. By the end of it, Steve stood dressed like an Asgardian, in deep reds, blues, and whites that formed an Asgardian pattern amidst understandable black, but with a white star emblazoned over his heart and knee-length boots to finish out the look. Thankfully there was no cape involved.
In his room, Tony gave himself a final once over in the standing mirror by his bed. He smiled at the deep reds and golds of his outfit that mingled with black aspects. What he thought would look cheesy, like something out of a Renaissance fair, turned out to be something that looked otherworldly yet fit him as a person entirely. Frigga had even left a hole for his arc reactor to show through, as if to say to him that he should proudly display even this aspect of himself.
" Do I look alright?" Tony asked, without his usual confident swagger, as he looked expectantly at the maiden standing silently by his side.
" Yes sir, you look ready." Was all she said.
Meanwhile in Bruce's room, the scientist did his best not to twitch too much as the maiden made her final adjustments to his green, purple, and black Asgardian attire. It was perfectly made and fit him like a glove. As he gazed at himself in the mirror in his room, Bruce felt his happiness at receiving such a lovely gift dim when he once again remembered that this was a funeral he was going to. Within him the Hulk grumbled, making his unhappiness at the situation known.
Clint let out a small sigh as he gazed at himself. He stood dressed in purple and silver, with a black vest coat that went just to his knees over everything. He didn't feel self-conscious, not even a little. All he did feel was gratitude that Frigga, who was a mother mourning her youngest son, had taken the time and effort to make him and everyone else the garments they now wore. It was truly humbling, and made the archer wish he could do more for the lovely woman.
" Thank you, that will be all." Natasha said to the maiden who had held her finish getting dressed.
" Your will, my lady." The Maiden said before with a bow she left the room. This left Natasha to gaze at herself in the dark, grayish black gown she now wore. It had bits of silvery armor and other metallic embellishments on the upper sleeves. Around her waste was a belt of blood-red metal circles all bound together by links. At the center circle was her symbol, the black widow's red hourglass against a black background. With a small sigh Natasha spoke quietly to herself in her native Russian.
" Spahseeboh"
In her room Jane stood stunned as she gazed at herself. She looked almost unrecognizable in the dark, rich navy blue and black gown she wore along with silver gauntlets and a woven belt around her waist. Thor's mother outdid herself and Jane knew not how she could ever repay such kindness. The maiden assigned to her had left and now Darcy came walking into Jane's room, dressed in similar fashion, although her metal embellishments were more flowerlike in design and her dress was a deep plumb color against her fair complexion.
" You ready Jane?" Darcy asked.
" Ready as I'll ever be, I just hate that we're going to a funeral for someone we all thought the worst of." Jane said with a sigh.
" Yeah, wish we could say sorry to him, Loki I mean." Darcy agreed.
A knock at Jane's door had both ladies turning to see Erik Selvig poke his head through. Dressed in Frigga's gift of Asgardian attire in the shades of light blue and white against black, he looked nothing like the simple professor in his button up shirts and slacks.
" Hey Jane, Darcy, you two ready?" Selvig asked with a sad smile.
" Yeah Erik, we are." Jane said, returning her colleague and friend's smile as she and Darcy headed out of the former's room with Selvig behind them.
The maidens were dismissed and took their leave, then one by one the others emerged after Jane, Selvig, and Darcy had made their way to the common room. Tony didn't make fun of anyone, instead quietly complementing and conversing. Everyone simply mingled with each other, asking how they looked and praising Frigga in her elegant work and immense generosity.
A knock at the door silenced any further conversation, and all eyes turned to see the Thor as he quietly entered the room.
The moment their eyes fell on him, each and every mortal felt their hearts lurch painfully. Where they had thought the black armor Thor had worn when he had arrived to Midgard had been bad, the armor he wore now was by far worse than that.
Everything from the sleeves to the chest plate that were supposed to be silver was now completely black, monotonous and devoid of the all brightness and personality of its wearer. At Thor's back hung a long, sweeping black cape, and atop his head was a matching black helmet with sweeping, majestic wings on either side. The only things that had any color to them was Mjolnir, who hung a dull shadow of itself and of course, the pendant that hung around Thor's neck glinted brightly against the light of the room.
Thor's eyes looked almost completely dead, while his face was held in a neutral mask as he stepped towards his friends and spoke.
" My friends, are you all prepared?" He asked as he looked over everyone in the room.
" Thor, your mother outdid herself." Bruce said as he stepped forward.
" She will be most pleased when she sees that you are all happy with her gifts." Thor said with a small smile that faded rapidly from his face.
" We must... we must go to the great hall now." Thor said quietly as he held his hand out for Jane, who stepped forward and took in, her eyes already starting to fill as she looked up at Thor.
" We're here for you man." Clint said quietly.
Thor sent them all a grateful look before he proceeded out the door to the quest quarters with Jane by his side. In silence, the others followed, forming two straight lines behind the Prince of Asgard. It was a walk made in somber silence, each person feeling the full weight of where it was they were going, who they were going to be among, and why they were here.
To honor the person who was in truth, the very first to fall at the hands of the Chitauri.
After what seemed like an eternity, the Avengers, Jane, Darcy, and Selvig all caught sight of the golden doors of the great hall. It was here that Thor let go of Jane's hand and turned to his friends.
" My friends, you shall all enter before me, for I am to enter with my King and Queen. The Warriors three and the Lady Sif shall escort you from here." Thor said, turning to see the four people in question step forward.
" My prince." Lady Sif said as she, Volstaag, Hogun, and Fandral all bowed to Thor.
" You four know your duty, fulfill it well." Thor said flatly, his eyes hard but his anger kept in check before he turned to Jane and kissed her forehead sweetly before he drew back and stepped away. They all watched as he disappeared around a corner, no doubt going to meet his mother and father so that they could all enter together.
" Come warriors of Midgard, we shall show you in." Hogun said as he and Sif situated themselves at the front, while Fandral and Volstaag stood at the back behind Selvig and Darcy.
Like before there was a loud thud, and the muffled voice of a man announcing them before they were set to enter. Then the doors were groaning as they were pulled open from the other side, slowly parting to reveal the great hall within.
Sif and Hogun moved first, followed by Steve and Jane next to him, then Tony and Bruce, Clint and Natasha, and finally Darcy and Selvig with Volstaag and Fandral closing out the rear, walking further back and away from the eight mortals. The four warriors somberly escorted the mortals down the long, main aisle that led to the throne of Asgard.
The Great Hall was yet again packed, and somberly decorated in the colors of black, green, and gold, though this time it was to mourn the loss of the very same prince who they had condemned as a madman and mass-murderer. Their prince was innocent, and they had lost him.
The mortals all walked at a medium pace, not wanting to rush things. They were all keenly aware of the vast number of eyes that were on them, but all of them from Steve to Darcy remained composed and tried to be as dignified and somber as they could. As they neared the great throne, the mortals were all stunned to see the group of towering blue humanoids who were already standing off to one side by the stairs leading up to the throne.
Jotuns, a delegation from Jotunheim led by their current ruler, Hellblindi. As they drew near, the mortals could see that the Asgardians who were closest to this group looked perhaps a little uncomfortable, if not mildly afraid, but other than that they simply stood where they were in respectable silence. The Jotuns for their part stood just as silent, their faces blank and red eyes gazing slowly about the great hall. Dressed simply in furs, and with their powerful looking arms and bodies bared proudly. Hellblindi wore a crown of ice around his head that looked like icicles stretching towards the sky, and spaulder of thick, spiky ice covering one shoulder to set him apart from his fellow frost giants as their king.
Steve looked to Jane and then to everyone else, all of them coming to a mutual agreement. As they neared the throne, as one the mortals all stopped and turned to the frost giants. Both parties stared at each other, the Jotuns more curiously, wondering what the Midgardians were up to, but it was revealed to them presently as the mortals all bowed to them in a clear sign of silent respect.
To say that the hall and the Jotuns themselves were stunned would be an understatement. But remembering decorum and silently pleased by the Midgardians' unexpected act, Hellblindi and his group all stepped forward and then bowed in turn. The Asgardians simply watched on, stunned at how a rag tag group of eight mortals could win the respect of the frost giant king and his fellows in the span of mere moments while they themselves had been feuding with Jotunheim for nearly a millennia.
But, such things would have to be forgotten at the moment. Sif and Hogun quietly asked the Avengers and Jane, Darcy, and Selvig to follow them, while Volstaag and Fandral stepped away and respectfully asked the Jotuns to return to their positions as well.
As the Avengers, and the three scientists came to stand at the steps leading up to the throne across from the Jotuns, who were now eying them with interest. Wordlessly, Sif, Volstaag, Fandral, and Hogun all came to stand by the mortals, though they stood somewhat removed and back from them, as they had been instructed so to do by their prince. They dared not voice and protest least the wished to fall into further disfavor.
Then there was a thunderous gong and all eyes turned to the great doors of the Hall which had been closed once more.
" His Majesty Odin All-father, her majesty Frigga All-Mother, and his majesty Thor, Crown Prince of Asgard come forth now. All bear witness." Came a deep, rumbling man's voice as two heavily armored guards went to the giant metal ring handles of the door and pulled at them with might, still appearing regal and poised as they opened the door for the royal family of Asgard.
The doors parted, and to long lines of black armored guards marched in, lethal looking spears grasped in their hands as they proceeded down either side of the great aisle that led to the throne. The lead guards came to a stop at the steps leading up to the daïs and when the line of guards stretched the entire length of the aisle, they all stopped as one, turned sharply so that they were facing their fellows who stood opposite them. Then as one the all brought the ends of their spears down to the floor, making one collective sound as they stood to attention.
Then they came, the three royals of Asgard. Odin walked ahead of his wide and son, adorned in his full black and gold armor, gold robes underneath, and his great helmet of both horns and feathers atop his head. Gungnir was held in right hand, but it was what was in his left hand, reverently cushioned atop a square green pillow that had the entire hall groaning in collective anguish. Their, cradled with care on the pillow was a gleaming silver helmet with long, curved horns that were familiar to all.
Loki's helmet, a newly made replica of the one the bastard usurper Menkos had dared to place on his head after his vile deeds. Odin All-father walked, cradling his youngest son's helmet, looking more weary than his people had ever seen him, but poised and regal like the king he was. Behind him Thor walked, a silent column of dignity yes, but also grief as he walked hand in hand with his mother, glad in his all black armor and cape. Frigga wore a plain black gown, the necklace much like Loki's the only jewelry around her neck as she walked beside Thor, gripping his hand with white-knuckled force. She looked like she could break at any moment, yet refused to do so through sheer will alone.
The silence in the hall was so all encompassing, one could probably hear their own organs working within their bodies, it was so quiet. As the royal family walked down the aisle, a grieving procession, the entire hall bowed in respect. Many were already shedding their tears, while others valiantly tried to stay composed.
As the royal family neared the throne, Steve felt his eyes well before he could help himself as he watched Thor and his parents. Beside him Jane already had tears leaking from her eyes, her heart breaking. Tony clenched his jaw tightly and pointedly looked at the floor so that he wouldn't have to see the anguish that was written into every line of Frigga's face. Bruce bowed his head and breathed deeply, because his other self was wanting to emerge right then and there and go to Thor and his family and comfort them as he had comforted Thor back on Midgard, he had arms that were big enough, they would all be able to fit. Clint gritted his teeth too, absolutely hating having to see Thor and his parents in such a way, and he'd never thought he'd feel his heart crumble as it did when he laid eyes on Loki's helmet in Odin's hand. Natasha watched on, her face carefully held neutral but her eyes giving away her own inner turmoil at having to see such strong people as Thor and his parents in such a way. Selvig stealthily wrapped his arm around Darcy's shoulder as the young woman reached up to wipe a tear from her cheek.
As he walked past, Thor's eyes fell on his mortal friends, and they all watched as is face crumbled a bit at seeing them, his eyes becoming over-bright and maybe even silently screaming out to them to come and save him from this, from what he had to do. But then Thor quickly composed himself and gave them all a mute nod before he turned his head forward and continued walking.
After what seemed like an agonizing life-age, the royal family reached the steps of the daïs. It was here that Thor left his mother for a moment and walked over to the Jotun delegation. Hellblindi stepped forward, and the two stared at each other and moment. Then Thor held out his hand to the giant who towered well over him. Hellblindi looked at the offered hand a moment before he nodded and reached out with his own. The hall watched on in respectful silence as Thor clasped arms with Hellblindi in a clear sign of peace. There was a low murmur through the crowd about Thor not being frost-bitten the moment he and Hellblindi made contact, but otherwise no one said anything. Then Thor parted from Hellblindi and made his way across to where the mortals stood.
" I thank you all for choosing to come here today and share in our day of grieving. I am forever grateful to you all that you honor Loki with me." Thor said formally.
" The honor is ours, and anything for a true friend." Steve said as he stepped forward and held out his hand.
Thor sent them all such a grateful look as he firmly clasped Steve's hand, that even Natasha's eyes finally filled and Tony had to wipe something from under his eye. Steve squeezed Thor's arm hard as he felt the way the Asgardian Prince's hand was trembling around his own forearm.
" Thank you." Thor said softly before he turned to Jane and gently cupped her cheek for a moment, using his thumb to wipe away a fresh tear before he forced himself away and rejoined his parents. As one the three royals climbed up the steps to the throne, Thor and Frigga letting go of each other so that the flanked either side of Odin. Odin with his wife and remaining son by his side turned to face his subjects and guests from the two realms most grievously injured by the Chitauri and spoke.
" People of Asgard, King Hellblindi of Jotunheim and your subjects, Warriors of Midgard. I Odin All-father come to stand before you not as a king, but as the father of a murdered son. I ask you all to join me as I mourn he who was second prince of Asgard, brother of Thor, glittering jewel of his mother's eye, and the child I took into my heart by choice. Loki Odinson."
Odin's voice carried through the hall, and as one they all began to chant.
" LOKI ODINSON... LOKI ODINSON... LOKI ODINSON!"
The Avengers, Jane, Darcy, and Selvig all joined in without even thinking. The chanting of Loki's name went on for several thunderous moments until Odin lifted Gungnir and brought the end down, the thud reverberating through the hall, silencing all.
Then without saying anything, Odin carefully handed Loki's helmet to Thor, who carefully held he pillow in his hands while he and everyone else watched on as Odin descended the steps of the dais with Gungnir. Once he was on the floor of the great hall, Odin turned and made a sweeping motion with his great spear. The mortals and everyone else watched as out of nowhere a giant, ornate looking golden cauldron appear and started floating above the steps of the dais, at chest level with Odin where he stood. The cauldron was empty, devoid of all life, but it was not so for long as Odin raised his hand, his palm glowing brightly as a green ball of flame seemed to ignited within it. The ball of green fire floated in Odin's hand a few moments before the All-father bade the flame away from himself and towards the cauldron. The little green flame disappeared within the cauldron and a moment later their was a deafening boom as the cauldron roared to life with a brilliant greenish-gold fire.
They all watched as Odin stood proud and sure before this roaring flame, with a tearful Frigga and silent Thor watching on as he pointed Gungnir at the flame and spoke for all to hear.
" Hela, Queen of Niflheim, keeper of the dishonored dead, you are hear by summoned." Odin said, his voice booming through the whole hall as the green gold fire within the cauldron flared up at his words.
" Appear before us now with all respect, for there is a mistake that must be rectified."
After Odin's voice died down there were several long moments of tense silence save for the roaring flame and Frigga and Thor both made their way down the steps and came to flank either side of Odin.
Then out of nowhere the fire of the cauldron roared loudly as two great plums of golden smoke lazily rose up from the fire and swirled around each other like to intertwining serpents, slowing rising upward together till they formed a towering column of swirling smoke. As they all watched with hearts pounding loudly in both awe and nervousness, a dark shape began to materialize within the swirling column. The shape grew more solid with each passing moment until it finally became a distinct silhouette. Then the figure with the smoke moved, sweep two long arms out as if to tear apart the smoke that was veiling it. The smoke sharply parted to reveal a giant woman floating high above the fire that still raged within the cauldron.
Clad in robes of deep green and black, and a long, sweeping green cape which as floated about her with an otherworldly quality, the woman was pale as fresh winter snow, with the upper half of her face hidden beneath a black cowl. From this cowl stemmed an intricate headdress that looked like black antlers interwoven to form a crown about her head. She gazed down at the All-father with supernatural pure white eyes that held an slightly amused glint to them as she crossed her arms a spoke with a deep, silvery voice that carried across the entire hall.
" Hela, Queen of Niflheim, answers her summons and greets thee All-Father, now do tell me, what is this mistake you wish to rectify on this day?"