Thank you for all of your reviews and for your encouragement, enthusiasm, and pushing for me to get this next 'chapter' out. So this is where the replies get a little bit jumpy, but I will eventually revise the replies and combined them into a true chapter-like story and then post it.
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Laufey watched this portrayal of love and need between his son and this golden child of Asgard, and it made his stomach churn. He hated that the prince had the audacity to even get onto his knees. He wanted to stand and shout that Thor looked pathetic, but he stayed seated, knowing if he got up he would sit down for a while. He would probably haul up there and snap Loki's neck. He was a bundling energy of darkness. If the others of the castle hadn't been so happy, he was sure to have made the entire kingdom with sickness.
His wife sat there, numbly. She felt only when she needed to, and she did not feel this was a time necessary to feel anything. Her face wore a blank smile, her eyes having been dead for many of years, ever since she truly learned the meaning of her scale.
She may seem dead on the inside, and she mostly was, but one thing she always valued was balance. In every situation, she looked at the balance. And she was so happy with the balance that Thor and Loki instantly had. That is why she approved of the betrothal. He husband had been gone that day, visiting a whore, and Frigga and Odin showed in in wishes to speak out a betrothal. And as soon as Loki and Thor saw each other, she knew they were the ultimate balance. She didn't care of the beating she received once her husband returned. It was already done, and one could not back out.
The vows were even matched, and she was pleased, whereas her husband was outraged that his son had revealed a very big secret to such people. She had hoped the golden ones would reveal a secret as well, but this wasn't her kingdom, this wasn't her rules. And neither was it Laufey's kingdom, and she regarded him carefully to make sure he didn't react wrongly.
Laufey was disgusted at all of this.
Loki smiled softly at Thor and squeezed his hand back, closing his eyes and nuzzling Thor's hand as his tear was brushed.
"I accept this marriage between us and accept you as my husband, if you shall accept me into your life, into you home, into your kingdom, Thor," Loki's voice was wavering but loud, wanting the entire castle to know that he was serious. He meant this, all of this. He had never been so serious in his life.
Loki's breathing hitched and he kissed back, his eyes closing again as he felt the softness of Thor's lips on his own. He pulled back with a smile, biting his bottom lip. His father spat, literally spat, on the ground at such a disgusting form of public affection. He sneered, and his mother smiled a bit more. The positive energy in this place balanced with the negative energy of Laufey.
"King Odin," Loki inhaled quietly to steady himself before proceeding. "I take Thor, the prince of Asgard, to be my husband, for this eternity and the next."
When Odin actually gave him a spot to stand and object, Laufey tried to stand, only to find his wife's nails digging into his leg.
"Remember the balance. You wanted your children gone, so they wouldn't disappoint you, and they will disappoint you the most as they leave. It is all a scale, ice king." She whispered softly to him.
He squeezed her hand, threatening to break a few bones as he hissed back, "My cohorts are your cohorts, ice queen. Remember that on your scale."
Loki stared at his hand in awe, the light catching him off guard and making him audibly gasp. He felt a strange feeling curl around him, although it was nice. He stared at his tattoo, smiling as he thought faintly of his mother, always preaching about Balance. These tattoos were certainly balanced.
Odin then spoke of them being able to kiss, to make the union confirmed and matrimonial.
Loki did not need to be told twice as he wrapped his arms around Thor's neck, kissing him deeply with a burning amount of love and passion.
Laufey scowled and stood, exiting the hall in anger and disgust, and that made Loki kiss Thor deeper.
Thor was more then over-joyed to hear Loki confirm their marriage as he had, and at those words his pupils dilated and his eyes flashed with more then just acceptance. Odin was pleased as well at Loki's response, as well as Frigga, but Frigga knew that Loki would not decline and neither would Thor.
They loved each other, that was evident.
Thor had leaned in as well the moment Odin confirmed they were allowed to seal the marriage with a kiss, but the way Loki suddenly wrapped his arms around his neck and kissed him so passionately, threw Thor off guard.
But it was for just a moment.
Thor placed his arm around Loki's waist and held him firmly, but gently, and pulled him close so there was not even an inch between them. Thor placed his other hand at the back of Loki's head and laced his fingers into his curled ebony hair.
Odin took notice of Laufey's exit, as did Frigga. Frigga inwardly smiled to herself at that, for Laufey was unpleased at the marriage. It had not been his decision, but that of his wife's, and Frigga cared only for how the Queen of Jotunheim felt.
She had made it possible for their kingdoms to come to an agreed alliance, one that Frigga was sure was beneficial for both of their realms and people. But Frigga also knew to be cautious of Laufey still, because she knew Laufey could (and would, if given the chance) turn on them in an instant.
Thor's eyes opened and he looked deeply into Loki's. He still held Loki firmly around the waist and his hand still gently laced within his hair. They were only parted inches, they could still feel each other's breath on their face, and their chests where still pressed together.
Thor whispered so only the Jotun prince could hear his words, "I love you Loki, I will be a good husband and a good king. And when the time should come, I will be a good father." Thor then closed the inches between them again and pressed a passionate kiss to Loki's lips, one that Thor put all his heart into.
When Thor pulled away again, he released Loki, but held one hand still and announced loud enough for all to hear, "I have a gift for you my wife, a gift to show my love and consummate our marriage."
Thor then motioned with his free hand down the hall to where the door was, and upon his gesture, the doors opened.
In came 4 stunted men, three walking a breast as the fourth walked alone in front, leading the way down the red carpet, and the one leading in front was holding tightly a cushion. The cushion was made of red Dwarven silk, one of the finest material in all the 9 realms.
However, it was not the cushion that was the center of attention. On the cushion, radiating the light from the stars and the galaxy, was a hand crafted necklace.
A large jewel was center, while smaller ones lengthened it, getting tinier and more petite as they went. Purples and dark blues swirled around inside, while silver specks flowed with it.
It looked like the Dwarves had taken/took the galaxy and the stars and somehow contained it behind glass. And that was exactly what it was. Somehow the Dwarves captured the dust of the galaxy and shards of a fallen star and forged it into a beautiful jeweled necklace.
But this was a magical necklace that changed with the day and night. It turned to yellows, pinks and purples at dawn and looked like the horizon in the morning as the sun arose.
At dusk, the light of the golden sun would fade, turning from pinks and purples and oranges and reds, into the night sky as the moon shone high.
In the day, the jewels where filled with sunshine and blue sky, some days with white clouds and some days without. The jewel gave off warmth in the day, for it was the rays of the sun the Dwarves had caught and placed inside.
When the Dwarves finally arrived at the steps of Odin's throne, they all got down on one knee and bowed their heads. The three in the back all placed their arms across their chest and rested a fist over their hearts, while Alfrigg held out the cushion to Thor.
Thor looked over at Loki and smiled, then let go of his hand and ascended down the steps. He took the cushion and returned to Loki, kneeling down before him as he did before with his vows, and presented it up close to the Cold Prince.
Thor was smiling up at Loki and hoped in his heart that Loki approved and accepted this marriage gift.
Loki clung to Thor, not ashamed of basically throwing himself onto his husband. His eyes fluttered closed for a moment and he smiled, slowly pulling back. His breath was soft and his arms shook slight in delight. He was actually married to Thor.
The queen didn't even flinch when her husband stormed out. It was nice to not have him directly breathing down her neck. Laufey was an awful man. Such an awful man, and if she cared about anything besides balanced she might have tried to not have him be so horrendous.
Laufey was pacing outside the wedding group, livid. If he were a normal blooded man he would've been literally steaming in rage and anger. Those displays, that kiss, they were horrendous. They pissed him off. And they made him miss his son.
Not for the reason one would hope, of course. He liked having a personal whore, one to call to his room and brutalize whenever he wanted. And he had just lost that. Even knowing of the betrothal agreement, he had gotten close, gotten attached to fucking him and beating him in magical ways that would make his toes curl. He, the Frost Giant King, hadn't fallen in love with his son, he hadn't become emotionally attached. He had only grown fond of having someone so verbal to abuse and to torment. This was getting too hard, and he was going to fight to get his son back.
Loki's eyes fluttered open when their lips parted, his red eyes wide with warmth and love. He could feel Thor's sweet breath on his lips, and he loved it. He looked forward to feeling it more and more, each day, each morning. His heart swelled at the thought, the prospect of having this.
Loki listened to him and smiled, stroking his hair gently as he replied, "I love you too, Thor. I'll be the best wife and Queen I could be, ok? And, if the time does come, I will try to be a good mother. Better than mine."
Loki didn't want them to part, but reluctantly did. His eyes widened as he heard there was going to be a gift. Instantly doubt flashed through his mind that Thor would like his gift. Well, he knew the man would like the present. It was simply Loki's body as an offering for sex and love. But he wasn't sure Thor would find it classy. He might find Loki cheap or disgusting for such a lewd offering. He was scared, really/very.
Loki was seized in his fear, not even looking as the Dwarves brought the necklace.
His thoughts flashed to his father, the cruel taunts he gave and the harsh punishments that were given daily.
He remembered Laufey tell him one night that he was such a whore he could never be true royalty.
He remembered the small carving of Laufey's insignia on the back of his neck, right where his hair stopped and met his skin.
"For ownership." The man would snarl.
He remembered the pain of that. It took a lot of force to slice through Jotun frozen flesh, but his father did it with complete ease.
But when Thor knelt with the necklace he snapped out of his thoughts and his fears increased. It was such a beautiful necklace. He was so ashamed of the present he had to give.
He started to cry, covering his face as his shoulders shook. "It's beautiful," He whimpered, turning from the crowd and releasing Thor's hand. He was so full of shame and dishonor, he wanted to die. He would take years and years of pain and punishment from his father, would it have saved him from his crippling fear and disgrace.
He knew it was wrong to cry at your wedding, but he did. He was weeping. His mother watched, and felt a tinge of sadness.
Laufey heard the soft noise he remembered and a cruel smile curled onto his lips. It was a nice thing to hear.
Thor gave that gentle smile again, the one that truly showed he was a soft man inside, the smile Loki saw in the library, the one Thor only allowed a few to see. "I know you will be, you will be the best mother to our children and I could ask for no one better to bare my offspring."
Thor was just so ecstatic at having Loki as his and only his, he did not need anything but that; It meant more to him then any gift could ever. Thor did this out of the kindness of his heart and because he loved Loki deeply, and Thor did not expect anything in return.
Thor would never in all his many years think so little of Loki, the only gift Loki could give was the most private and intimate gift of all, and Thor could (and would) never ask for anything more special. Loki's abstinence for anyone but he, was the best gift Thor could ever get.
Thor's eyes widened and he suddenly felt panicked.
"Then -" Thor gaped like a fish, but couldn't fine further words right away. He did not understand, if it was beautiful then why did Loki cry? "What is the matter?" Thor's words slowly died in his throat and his brows creased, not understanding.
That was until Loki truly started to shed tears. Too quickly then, Thor took it wrongly and felt a pang in his heart.
Thor's lips pulled into a frown and he was unable to hold a steady smile. Thor did not ever think that Loki would be so upset over his gift; he didn't, even for a second, think that Loki wouldn't like it... and it hurt him.
Thor swallowed hard, so hard he was sure everyone could hear it. Thor lowered the cushion and bowed his head so that part of his hair was shadowing his eyes. He got off his knee; rising from it slowly. He swallowed again to get past the lump in his throat, and whispered quite loudly to Loki, apologizing for his choice of gift.
"I am sorry, I've chosen a poor gift," Thor's voice was heavy and monotonous; it was clear he was also very upset. His apple bobbed in his throat as he swallowed again, and he turned to the Dwarves who now were looking between the two princes.
Being scorned and wounded as he was, Thor carelessly held the cushion and the necklace in one hand, and stomped down the steps. "My betrothed does not fancy it, take it back," Thor's words came out harsher the he meant for them to, but he was a mix of emotions inside, and because of it the sky outside clouded and darkened, right before thunder clapped and startled everyone in the hall.
The Dwarves looked between each other and then again at Thor, Alfrigg cleared his throat and spoke what the rest of his brethren where thinking. "But my lord, this is exactly what you had requested -" But before he could get any further words out, Thor angrily snapped and shoved the cushion and necklace into Alfrigg's chest, "I SAID TAKE IT BACK! HE DOES NOT LIKE IT! IT IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH!"
Thor had never had any of his gifts rejected, though he had never given out many. He had never been turned down, not by Maidens, not my other gods, not by anyone. But to have his gift rejected by the one person he strive for most, was the hardest blow to his feelings and heart.
Frigga instantly became concerned as well and stepped up to gently place both hands on Loki's shoulders. Her face was filled with concern and she gently whispered, "what is it my dear? What has happened?" Frigga tilted her head a little and looked at Loki from the side, "Has Thor done something to upset you? You know you may tell me whatever it is and you do not have to be ashamed."
Frigga then couldn't stop herself from taking a sharp breath when Thor shouted and demanded the return of the gift.
She took her hands from Loki's shoulder, immediately hiking the bottom of her dress up and running down the steps to Thor. "Thor, my son, do not be so rash, this is all a misunderstanding," and Frigga knew that to be true. Loki's heart was pure and sweet, and any gift that Thor bestowed upon him was more the enough. It was jewelry that Loki fanced above all else, so Thor's choice in gifts was not at all wrong.
When Thor refused to even acknowledge his mother's words and was Hel bent on making the Dwarves take the necklace away, Odin finally stepped in to quell his son's anger and pained heart. But first, Odin addressed the crowd. He raised his hands at the murmuring and whispering going around, and quieted the people. "The ceremony has been done, Thor Odinson and Loki Laufeyson are now and forever betrothed. You may all return to the dinning halls for feasts and drink!"
And that was that.
The crowd still yammered and talked, but they all rose and one after the other, exited the great throne room.
Loki wanted to tell him, but he was so terribly ashamed. He really did, but he couldn't stop the tears. He felt so badly, he couldn't believe that Thor wouldn't think as lowly of him as his own father had. He cringed, knowing Thor would take this the wrong way.
"no-no, it's not-" Loki whimpered, far to quietly to quell Thor's doubt about the gift being bad. He cringed at the thunder and at the harshness in Thor's voice. Loki tried to tell Frigga what was wrong, but would you wish to tell the queen how much of a lewd whore you were? No.
He cried harder, jumping at the roar his husband let out. He was grateful to hear Odin allow them all to drink, and then he froze, unable to even cry at what he heard next.
Laufey stood in the doorway of the great hall, not letting anyone exit. He smirked. "Do not fret, golden prince. Loki doesn't cry because the gift isn't good enough. He cries because he knows he isn't good enough. I'm being truthful, too. Loki, here, his gift to you is lewd and carnal, disgusting and used by a many, including myself. His gift is his scarred body. The thing you find beautiful? Find the carving of my crest on him and try not to sneer in disgust."
Laufey laughed, walking up to them slowly. His wife stood, absolutely enraged. He had broken balance.
"Laufey, leave the castle now! Do not say another word!" She commanded, and her tone was scarier than Laufey's ever could be. But the man simply turned and struck her hard enough to make her hit the floor in pain. He turned back to his son and his husband, smirking evilly.
"Loki's told you, right? Of his rebellions in my kingdom? Oh, the boy is a winner with the crowds when he dances in the square. And if you approach him with gold, he'll do anything. I learned that a few months ago, when he accepted my gold the first time."
Loki whimpered, turning to face the man, "Father, stop, please-"
Laufey shook his head, "Your sun needs to know the truth about you. Prince Thor -"
He turned his attention to the man and smirked cruelly, "You've wed yourself to the biggest whore in all of Jotunheim, I congratulate you. Many men would like to have them all to themselves. He's very talented, and very good at faking. I'm sure he'll have you convinced the first few times you make love." He spat the words out with venom and his wife stood, ripping at his hair.
His weak spot was his hair, actually. It was sensitive. He fell back, crying out in pain as she dragged him. She glanced back at her son, who looked a mixture of fear, anger, disgrace, and shame, and she smiled softly, actually meaning it.
"I know the gods will reward your balance, my son. And you look more beautiful than I would've ever known. Your sun still shines, and balance drags your cursed time from you." She spoke in tongues towards the end, referring to the ominous tone of his lines.
Loki whimpered, turning to Thor. "I'm so sorry." He gasped, covering his face while looking for a place to run.
He needed to flee. He was a caged animal and he needed to leave before he was killed emotionally. He just knew the Asgardians would never accept him now, and he doubted Thor would love him after this. He was broken. Time had done it. It had taken his sun away with only a few words.
Odin went on to addressing his son as the hall was being cleared and the only ones who where to witness his words were to be Thor, Frigga, Loki, the Dwarves and he. Odin understood more then he let on, and knew he had to put a stop to this immediately. He knew it was not that Loki did not like the gift, any god in their right mind would have accepted such a find gift.
It came right from Thor's heart, and that was why it hurt him even more. Odin found it vulgar that Thor behave in such a way at his own wedding and even more so in-front of his new wife. It was childish and Odin wanted Thor to grow up. There was no time like the present for such a thing.
"I will not have this aggression in my halls!" Odin sternly spoke trying to keep his own voice and aggression at bay. He growled low afterwards, showing Thor he was not playing when he said that.
But of course, as he did with his mother, Thor ignored his father. His breath came in heavy and he huffed from his anger, but Thor heard Odin and did eventually turn around to look at him.
They both shared the same disgruntled look on their face and did not speak one word. They stared each other down, as if they were challenging each other, and perhaps thats exactly what it was. But Thor was Odin's son and Odin Thor's father, they could not possibly have won against each other, but as luck would have it Frigga intervened.
Frigga stepped in front of Loki and held her arms out, as if she was shielding Loki from Thor's anger and aggression, and she was. She stood between them in protection , though she knew Thor would never harm Loki in anyway, especially physically. But words hurt as well, and Thor's aggression and sudden rage was surely opening up old wounds Loki had gotten from his father (emotional wounds, from when Laufey yelled and became enraged with Loki and in that state hurt Loki physically). "This is not Loki's fault, he is damaged, he is damaged so very much."
Frigga understood her words, because she knew very well that was how Loki was; she did not need for Loki to tell her so. So she would have never thought of Loki as a whore either, after all she was the one who had taught her son to be a good man, to be respectable, and to have empathy for others, even those who were thyn enemy.
Thor growled and grabbed his hair with both hands. He squeezed his eyes shut and clenched his jaw, "I know! I know!" Thor shouted one last time, before his anger and aggression died and became pain and sorrow. "I know," Thor whispered the same words again. This time though, his voice cracked and it was filled with hurt.
Thor's face was distorted in a sorrowful look, one that reflected Loki's tear streaked face. "I know," Thor kept repeating and gently pushed his mother aside, only to wrap his arms around Loki and securely hold him in a tight embrace as close to his body as he was able to get Loki.
Thor berried his face in Loki's hair, and this time it was he who began to shed tears. But Thor was silent and no one else but Loki would have known, were it not for his noticeably trembling body.
Thor was never ashamed to cry in front of his mother or his father, though his father was harder on him and often told him to deal with the problem bringing him pain, rather then sit and cry about it. A lesson Thor took to heart and meaning much to deeply.
But Thor snapped his head in the direction of the voice and growled loudly through clenched teeth. His eyes were almost on fire and they bore death into Laufey who stood in the door way. If looks could kill, Laufey would be dead a thousand times over.
Odin and Frigga also turned their attention to the harsh voice, and only now had Odin noticed that his people were being sealed in. But of course, Odin would not allow his people to be hurt. The people all around slowly looked from Laufey to Thor and Loki, gasping and whispering amongst themselves.
This was almost scandalous, and would definitely be talked about for many more days, weeks even. They were waiting for a response from Thor or Odin, and of course they got what they were expecting.
When Laufey approached, Thor growled and unwrapped his arms from around Loki. His own tears dried up and he no longer was crying as Loki was, he now was seething even more then he was.
"HALT YOUR WAGGING TONGUE! YOU KNOW NOTHING!" Thor shouted at the top of his lungs and lunged at Laufey, hammer in hand within seconds. But Odin immediately grabbed Thor's arm, stopping him before he could unlesh his anger and rage on Laufey, though Odin himself knew that Laufey deserved it.
Thor turned instantly on his father, yanking his arm away from Odin's hand, but not able to successfully free himself from his father's grip. "Father, what is the meaning of this?!"
"Calm yourself, violence will not resolve the matter or return the words back to mouth." But it was hard for Thor. He would have been happy to have heard that if it was not his gift that had upset Loki, but his anger made it almost impossible for him to see anything but the problem.
Odin then turned to Laufey at his steps, in which the Dwarves had moved and had taken the necklace and had hidden away somewhere. But before Odin could address him personally, Laufey's wife beat him to it.
Which Odin did not necessarily mind. Frigga herself returned to Loki and wrapped her arms around the prince, replacing Thor's comfort and protection for the moment. She would allow her husband to care for the situation and work it out.
But Frigga would be lying if she said she did not admire or appreciate The Queen of Jotunheim stepping forward and standing up to her husband. Frigga knew that was rare, after all Frost Giants dominated over their loved ones and Laufey was king.
Thor was taken aback from hearing such a tone from Laufey's wife. It immediately killed the rage and anger he felt, and instead replaced it will fear. It made him want to return to Loki and shield him, protect him from all... even if that meant putting himself in the line of fire.
But when Thor saw Laufey strike his wife, that was it, that was the last straw, for him and for Odin. Frigga audibly gasped and put herself in front of Loki to shield him from the site.
Thor on the other hand wrenched his arm out of Odin's hand and rushed to Laufey, striking him in the face as he had done his wife. But it was with his hammer, not with a simple fist, and it caused Laufey's skin to split and spill his own blood.
Before Laufey staggered or hit the ground, Thor had him by the throat and was squeezing hard. He was hoping to leave marks on him, just as Laufey left marks on his wife and son. Thor again was seething, but far greater now. It startled everyone in the hall, especially when thunder cracked and lightning struck the golden palace, literally shaking the foundation and creating the floor underneath their feet to quake.
The people in the hall began to panic and piled out of the throne room as fast as possible, trying to get away from the commotion and the fight that was about to brake out.
Thor's face was only inches away from Laufey's, and it was then that he listened to the rest of Laufey's words. But Thor did not let up his grip, which was just as hard as any Laufey could produce. Thor did not say anything at first, only bore anger and hatred into Laufey's eyes; breathing heavily onto his face and listened.
But Thor could not handle the words coming from Laufey's mouth and he tightened his grip. He growled and bared his teeth, lightning flashing deadly in his eyes. "You may not talk about him as such! You had forced his hand! He did not have a choice! You are the cause of it all!" Thor could not help himself, he began to squeeze even harder and began to shake Laufey with all his might.
Frigga was quite cautious, but it was in her nature to help, especially other females, and Laufey's wife was no different. Frigga left Loki for but a moment and hiked her dress up; walking lightly past Thor and Laufey. She kneeled where Laufey's wife was and gently took her arm, holding it even when her skin set Frigga's on fire.
"Are you alright my queen?" Frigga gently asked, using the same tones she used with Loki, and helped The Ice Queen to her feet. "Please, accept my apologies, this was not my intention when I had suggested this arranged marriage."
Frigga did not expect a reply or a thank you or anything, she simply helped her back onto her feet and allowed the Queen to go and care for her husband as she saw fit.
Odin himself had to step in again and restrain his son, he allowed Thor to strike Laufey and show that he would not be deterred or dominated, which was important when Thor became king. His son needed to show that he would not be pushed around and that he was chosen as king for a reason (other then being the only heir).
Odin grabbed both of Thor's hands and pride the one around Laufey's neck off. "That is enough Thor! Enough!" Odin dragged Thor back struggling. "Father! Release me!" Thor struggled with all his might and ground his teeth, but Odin was far stronger then him and had dragged him away from Laufey.
Frigga had returned to Loki and was cradling him to her chest; rubbing his back and hushing him when he whimpered or took heavy intakes of breath. Frigga watched as Laufey's wife took care of him, grabbing him by the hair and yanking. Odin and Thor watched on, as well as the Dwarves who were not far off.
Thor would have smiled at Laufey's pain, at hearing him cry out as Loki often did and would have done in his father's presence before. But Thor was not able to curle his lips at the agony of others, even Laufey, but in this instance it was because Thor was much to angry.
Once Loki had addressed him though, and once Thor turned to look at his wife and saw the anguish and hurt in his face, Thor's anger disappeared again. "Loki," Thor whispered quietly and Odin released him in that moment, no struggling and no need for a command. "No Loki," Thor shook his head and approached him.
Frigga gently left Loki's side and allowed Thor to care and comfort him. "Do not apologize, it is not your fault. I love you and I always shall," Thor gently said and tilted his head to look into Loki's eyes better. Thor gently tilted Loki's head so that they looked into each other's eyes, and Thor found in Loki's red pools the fear and the need to run.
But Thor hoped that Loki would not. The happiest time of both of their lives, and it had turned into a horrendous disaster. "I am sorry, I was not able to protect you, not even on the day that is to be your happiest." Thor straightened up and did not move from Loki, he gave Loki space to flee if he so wished.
It caused pain in Thor's heart and his own eyes flashed sorrow and his throat tightened with a forming lump. "If you wish to go, I will not stop you. But I hope that you will remember that I love you and that I had made a vow too, no matter your past or your future..." Thor glanced deeply into Loki's eyes again for the last time, because he was sure Loki would turn and leave him once his last words were spoken, "But I hold hope that you will stay."
Loki was a cringing mess, hearing the father and son yell at each other. And he clung to Frigga for as long as she would allow. He was such a shameful, hidden creature, filled with self-hatred and horror, all of which directed towards himself. But, he was most fearful for when Odin and Thor grew silent. When they just stared, that was scary. More scary, even than his mother's harsh tone.
Loki clung to his husband and cried into his chest, his body shaking as he whimpered, "I love the necklace, Thor. I'm so sorry." He wasn't even sure Thor could hear him, but he felt so bad. He felt pathetic, actually. More than bad, or ashamed, he felt pathetic. He could hear his golden sun crying and he knew he had caused this. He had hardly even been at the castle, and he had ruined all the sweetness, all the happiness. He wept harder, and the god's blessed him with water proof makeup.
He stiffened, his breath stopping when his father's tone broke free. He hadn't told Thor anything about his life really back in Jotunheim, hoping to just forget it. And he realized he couldn't. That was a past that was to be brought up. And Laufey brought it up well. He heard the disgusted malice in his father's tone and he felt ashamed, to his father even. That bastard got his shame, unrequited.
Laufey could tell of Odin's concerned for his precious people, although he had no intention to hurt them. He just wanted to ruin his son. That's all he wanted to do, was to ruin his life, and make him flee to home so he could be killed. For Laufey would kill him now. Laufey wanted to feel the life sift from his son's body, he wanted his hands around the frail neck and his cock once more in his ass, so Loki could die doing at least one thing his father didn't mind from him. That was his wicked fantasy.
Laufey laughed and rolled his eyes, "Son of Thunder, I know all about my son. I can describe the men he's lain with, if you wish. He prefers the big, burly ones, such as yourself. I can see why he's so ready for this marriage to be underway. You're just his type, Prince Thor."
"Yes, boy, listen to your father. Violence is no answer. But Loki is good at taking such things as that. So, don't be afraid to be rough on him. He'll moan, even if you're to rough." Laufey snickered almost childishly.
He whipped around and slapped his wife. The sound was loud and cracking, resembling the thunder outside. She made a pained noise. He had never hit her this hard before, and he had hit her that hard because voice sounded dangerously in control, a thing he had beaten out of her their first year of marriage.
Loki didn't like seeing his mother hurt like that. He winced and covered his own cheek, to protect himself. It looked painful, and Loki knew it was.
Laufey spit blood, not staggering though. He had been hit harder, really. He didn't gasp either, ok with losing most breath. He kept on talking, his words cruel and dark and directed only towards slenderizing his son and ruining his just sanctioned marriage.
Loki then watched as his husband strangled his father. His body trembled, his breathing soft. He couldn't help but gape in actually fear at this legendary fight.
"I may have forced it, but there were times he enjoyed it, Prince. Your wife is the definition of whore." Laufey hissed in retort before losing air.
Laufey's wife was on the ground still through this, trying to get up but finding herself unable to find the strength for a moment. She looked at Frigga, her kindess a nice balance to the men's anger. "I'll be fine, my queen. l Do not apologize for the arrangement. The boys will be happy together. Now, let me get my pesky husband. He's never learned when to shut up." She mumbled. She pressed a gentle kiss to Frigga's forehead and murmured, "Give that to my son. I am proud."
Loki clung to Frigga once more, happy she was holding him. He needed her comfort and her love. And she gave him enough to help a bit. He was happy to watch his mother drag his father away.
And then he apologized for destroying everything. He wanted to fall to his knees and cry loudly, but he found himself unable to. He wasn't even able to do anything except cry and whimper for forgiveness.
Loki's eyes were red and bloodshot from all the tears, and were his makeup not waterproof, it would be streaking his blue cheeks darkly. But it wasn't, thank the gods, and instead his face was simply tear stained. "I love you too." He whimpered. His mind was racing and still, he wanted to flee, although Thor was forgiving., He hadn't believed anyone could forgive a person for this much destruction and pain. He had destroyed his own wedding.
Loki shook his head when Thor stepped away, and wrapped his arm surround the man tightly, kissing his cheek and trying to halt his tear, sniffling and giving a little cough. "Even with all of this, today is my happiest day, for you forgive me and you love me. I love the necklace, you know." His words were soft and hoarse, and a few tears escaped his eyes still.
"I will stay, Thor. For I love you. I am your wife, and this is my home. If you are ok with being married to a whore and to a bastard, I will stay. But, my father spoke the truth, Thor." And Loki decided he should come completely clean.
"And ever since this betrothal has been founded, I was trained to kill you all. He didn't say it because I told him I refused. But he did try to train me to kill you, Queen Frigga, You, King Odin, and you, Prince and my Husband Thor. And I refuse. Because I love you all already. And I'm so sorry." He would've sobbed, but he had cried out all of his tears already.
Frigga was quite shocked to say the least, when the queen of Jotunheim pressed a kiss to her forehead. But she smiled and bowed her head in respect, determined to give Loki his mother's kiss.
Thor was happy at those words, despite what had just happened. Now that Laufey was gone, they could forget it happened and move on. They could finish the celebration and join the feast and be happy.
Thor instantly wrapped his arms back around Loki and held him close, feeling his pain and sorrow and wanting to take it away. When Loki leaned in to kiss his cheek, Thor didn't give him a chance too. Instead, Thor only slightly turned his head and met Loki's lips with his own. Then Thor gently wiped the few remaining tears that fell from Loki's eyes.
It was as if the words did not faze Thor at all, but in actuality It hurt Thor to hear those things. Not because Loki slept around, no, It was the pain Loki had to go through. For Thor had also slept around, and not just with fine maidens, but with fine young gentlemen as well.
It only made Thor squeeze Loki tighter and Thor placed a kiss to the top of his head. "You will never be a whore in my eyes, but if that is what you wish to call your desire of the flesh, then I too am a whore."
Odin and Frigga hardly cared of Loki's past, what was done was done. They had made mistakes themselves in the past, Odin's mistakes far greater then that of his wife's. And then he was granted the gift of wisdom and knew his wrongs and wished never to see the same happen to his son.
This was none of their business, this was something between husband and wife (as all husbands and wives have secrets to share with each other). So Odin gently touched his wife's arm and spoke whispered words, "we shall leave them now my dear, you need rest now. Come," But before Odin could take her away to bed, she had one last thing to do.
Frigga's last words were to Thor. She gently touched his arm and he turned his head to give her attention for a moment. She herself looked withered from Laufey's energy and the chaos he created in such a short amount of time. She needed sleep and her husband knew it. He would lay her to rest for the evening and he would meet his son and his son's wife at the feast.
"Take care of him Thor," was her whispered words. Then she turned to Loki and gave him that gentle, loving smile. "Your mother is proud, she wanted me to tell you and wished for me to give this to you," Frigga then leaned in and gave the gentle kiss The Cold Queen gave her.
Only after, did Odin gently take her away; picking her up as if she was lighter then air, and exiting the hall.
Thor smiled to himself and saw his father take his mother, then turned back to Loki and gently placed his forehead against his wife's. He closed his eyes for but a moment and whispered to himself, but loud enough Loki could hear too. "I will always care for you," Thor opened his eyes again and gently smiled a small smile.
Loki kissed Thor back, surprised still that he would want to actually kiss such dirty, used lips. He did enjoy it, though. He loved Thor, and he doubted anything would ever change that.
The declaration that Thor made about him not being a whore made Loki surprised. Everyone usually heard that and they always just let it be that he was a whore. In his own kingdom, they called him that freely without a care that he was royalty. He really wasn't royalty. Only in title and blood, but not in action or liking. He had always felt un-at home. And his people knew, and they exploited his royal insecurity.
Laufey and his wife of course had problems, but they held their ground and they made sure everyone knew they were royalty. No one ever even tried to trample them for they were to strong and in control. Loki never wanted to be his parents except for when he witnessed them holding their ground. That was the only time he envied the harsh, cold people that had give him life.
Loki watched Frigga, seeing how tired she looked. He was so terribly angry towards his father for all he had done. Making Frigga tired was now added to the list. He didn't speak, just listened to her talk gently to her son. He smiled small as she told him to take care of Loki. It was a gentle, loving thing to say and he was happy to have heard it,
He stopped in surprise as Frigga kissed his head. He could hardly believe it was from his mother. And then he quickly remembered a snipet from his childhood.
A servant had blamed him for a broken lamp, and Loki had furiously denied it. He demanded the servant fess up. In that moment, he stood up for himself for the first time, and the servant, so surprised, did as told.
Loki's mother had smiled at him and kissed his forehead. "You have great balance, my boy. I am proud of you."
He smiled, snapping back to the present moment. "Thank you, Frigga. I hope you rest well." He murmured, watching her go with only slight worry. He knew Odin had this under control, even if he was worried about her, he knew her husband was, too. And he would care for her, for this was Asgard, where husbands loved their wives. It was nice to see. Especially seeing Odin lift her up. He laughed into his palm quietly.
Loki turned back to Thor at about the same time that his husband turned to him. He exhaled quietly and let his own eyes slip closed. "I will always love you." He replied softly, his own eyes fluttering open slowly. He smiled and leaned in, kissing his golden sun with a soft, loving passion.
He was worried, about the feast of course, but he wasn't going to voice his worry now. He was too busy showing his dear, beautiful husband that he did love him. The kiss was semblance of that, and Loki really wanted it proven.
"Can you put the necklace on me?" He asked quietly when their lips disconnected. He didn't know if it was still a sensitive subject or not. He really did love the piece of jewelry, though.
Thor felt the same way as Loki, he loved the Jotun Prince and nothing would change that. They were married now anyhow, and there was nothing anyone could do anyway.
Anyone could say the same for Thor and Odin, as well as Frigga. Even she had told Loki he had to show his dominance and place to gain the respect of the people. That meant acting like a Queen and being kind like one.
But Loki had no problem doing that, even Frigga could see the heart of gold he had.
Thor became confused and cocked his head slightly to the side, raising a single eyebrow. Why had Loki been laughing? Thor wondered, but he didn't ask; to see Loki smile and laughing was to sweet to ruin by asking.
Thor smiled at Loki's words. He knew Loki would; even though they met only hours ago, Thor knew Loki, even if Loki had with held information about his past until now. "I will always love you as well," And when Loki opened his eyes and kissed him, Thor kept his closed and took in a deep breath, while passionately pressing a kiss back.
Thor wrapped his arms around Loki's back and pulled him closer so that their chest were squished together. Thor hummed in his throat at the sweet of Loki's lips and lifted Loki off of his feet with ease.
When they parted, Thor opened his eyes and suddenly his face dropped. Those blue eyes of his got wide and his mouth opened in a silent gasp. He immediately glanced around him in a rush, having forgot about the entire gift.
Thor did not see the Dwarves around, so think they had left with the necklace, Thor looked back at Loki and gave a sigh. "No, I am sorry my love," Thor didn't wish to look Loki in the eye, being he had lost the gift Loki had loved. But Thor did look into those blood red eyes and confessed, "I do not have it any longer."
But just as Thor said that, Four stunted men with long and large beards emerged from behind one of the pillars in the halls. One of them still had the cushion, and on the cushion was the necklace still.
Alfrigg cleared his throat when they approached Thor and Loki, and yet again he held it out to them, but not before bowing his head. "My Princes," Thor's lips cracked into a large smile and he let go of Loki for but a moment to turn to the Dwarves.
He picked up the necklace and returned to Loki with it held up. Of course Thor treated it gently, just as he would always treat Loki. Thor smiled even more, "Turn around my queen."
Loki laughed as he was lifted up, playfully pretending to wheeze. He gave a loud squee and kicked his legs, He giggled, breaking the kiss to ask for the necklace, which he truly had loved. It was actually very magnificent. He had always had a fascination towards the sky, although it was always really dark in Jotun, So, he didn't have much to be fascinated with. But this necklace let him be filled with wonder, and he was.
Loki was a mere second from reassuring his lover that it was fine. That he didn't need a necklace, when the Dwarves approached. He watched them walk up and he smiled, knowing that had the gift. He saw it. And then he remembered he had basically caused Thor to scream at them and made a note to apologize.
Loki smiled brighter when the beautiful jewelry was presented to them. He turned, allowing Thor to gently put it on him. It looked beautiful. He hadn't ever had so many pretty things around him in one day.
He walked to the Dwarves and smiled at them. "Thank you. Thank all of you for this beautiful gift. And I'm sorry for crying and causing Thor to scream at you. I was just very ashamed that my gift wasn't as magnificent as his was. Truly, this necklace is marvelous, and I'm happy – grateful really – that you all made it."
He glanced back at Thor, making that face that basically said, 'don't you think you should apologize for screaming at them? Yeah, I know dominance is a royal thing, but there's no need to be rude and ignore the fact that you were in the wrong there, dear. You should've asked why I was crying before you snapped on the nice people. Now, please say sorry.'
That's basically what his look meant, and he knew Thor knew right away what that face was for. Everyone knew why he'd make that face, Because Thor had been in the wrong and these wonderful people did not deserve that.
There was nothing that warmed Thor's heart more then Loki's happy smile and his sweet giggles. There was nothing more beautiful either.
Thor chuckled himself, smiling back and beaming as Loki's sun. And when Loki apologized to him, he didn't stop and kissed him again. "I am just joyed that you do not think little of my gift." And Thor kissed Loki again passionately.
Thor thanked them for keeping the necklace and they had given a nod & smile in return.
Then Thor placed the necklace gently around Loki's neck, making sure the jewels lined his beautifully defined colour bone and rested just above his chest.
Thor secured it and then looked at Loki with it on. He had never seen anything so beautiful in his life and he did hope that Loki would give him the pleasure of wearing it as he ravished him (and wearing ONLY it).
Thor gently touched Loki's skin with his finger tips; gliding his fingers softly and lightly down and over his collar bone, then gently along the jewels that were cool at the moment.
And when Loki apologize to the Dwarves after, Thor realized what he had done. Thor didn't need to be told, he was about to apologize to the Dwarves when Loki gave him that look.
Truth be told, it gave Thor butterflies. Not in a bad way, but the kind that made Thor want to pick Loki up and take him to bed. It could have been the thought that Loki was now his wife and it was definitely the look himself, Thor thought it was cute.
Loki immediately took the roll of wife, something that turned Thor on unbelievable as it seemed. Even if it was Loki nagging him as a good wife does her husband.
Thor did feel guilty, and he did know right from wrong, and he did know he should have not done that; the Dwarves had done a great thing for him and they did not deserve the way they were treated.
So Thor listening to the demanding look on Loki's face and he apologized. Thor stepped up beside his wife and crossed an arm over his chest, placing his fist above his heart. He quickly dropped to one knee and bowed his head, "I apologize for my behavior and such words I have spoken. I could not have asked for better crafts-men to craft the gift around my wife's neck. Please forgive me."
Thor only stood when the Dwarves had given a nod in acceptance to both Thor's and Loki's appology. He smiled at them and said, "You will be compensated for your efforts and your trip here, I am also honored to have had you present at our wedding."
Thor then held his arm out for Loki to take, smiling at him. And then he motioned with his free hand toward the doors; addressing the Dwarves again, "Please, Will you not stay and feast tonight on food and drink, and bless us with your company?"
Dwarves were not the type to turn down good food and especially good drink, so of course they got to their feet and accepted the offer. "Nothing would please us more," Alfrigg spoke for them all and Thor nodded in their direction once, smiling. "Wonderful! Now if you please," Thor motioned to the door again and gently pulled Loki along, heading down along the red carpet again.
Loki closed his eyes as the necklace was gently placed on him. The metal wasn't to warm or to cold. It was just perfect, and for some reason, Loki almost expected that. He knew there was magic in the piece of jewelry, and he loved that fact.
It settled perfectly on his chest, although Loki couldn't see it, he knew it looked stunning on, him, and he wasn't even being egotistical. He was just stating a simple fact. He wondered briefly how well Thor liked how it looked on him when He felt his husband's fingers gliding his flesh and the jewels. He wondered also, how aroused Thor might be, dare Loki where it while they fucked.
He had heard a rumor that some people, the ones truly in love, had peaked arousal on the night of their wedding. They could go mad with lust. And Loki wondered if that might happen to Thor and he at the feast. He sort of hoped, sort of didn't.
He did because that usually proved that the people that were married truly loved each other. And consummating the marriage like that was sacred and almost holy, were you to ask a select people set.
He didn't because he was wary to even attend the feast. Everyone would be staring at him and whispering about what his father had said, and he didn't what to have to deal with that. He really didn't want to have to deal with that.
Thor gently touched Loki's skin with his finger tips; gliding his fingers softly and lightly down and over his collar bone, then gently along the jewels that were cool at the moment.
Loki glanced back at Thor, waiting for him to apologize after he had given the look. He wondered for a moment why Thor looked at him such a way. It was almost a desire strung glance, but it hadn't quite evolved yet.
He wondered if maybe Thor was feeling like that, like he had an unusual amount of desire in his body. Loki thought he might be, because Thor was looking better and better each second Loki's eyes slipped slowly over his lover's body.
Loki smiled, hearing Thor apologize, like he needed to. He nodded in agreement to what the man said. "We wish truly for you to join the festivities of our union." He added, grinning when the Dwarves agreed.
He was slightly surprises at being drug around, but it wasn't completely horrible. He did speak softly to his husband, asking, "Do we have to go to the feast? I'm hesitant to be judged by the people I am supposed to rule, Thor, and I know they will judge me. This is a beautiful place, but not everyone just ignores their queen being named an incestual whore by their own father." He was voicing his fears because he didn't want to get to the feast and have a break down because people were staring at him.
He just wanted to celebrate with his husband, truthfully.
Authors Note:
Laufey is such an asshole!