Your sins into me [Loki]

[Thor Odinson]

Odin One-Eye smiled, and gave Loki a nod of approval. He had done well for himself, with his fair and pale wife to be. It was good to see the boy had become a man at long last, with a sense of direction and purpose to his life. He expected Thor to follow suit, now that Loki had risen up to provide the example. Loki had shown himself to be quite capable of responsible action on this day, while Thor prattled on about picking fights Asgard did not need at present. He happily gave his blessings to Loki and Sigyn.

"No apologies are needed, my boy!" Odin roared with rapturous joy, " And as for permission, that you have. Now perhaps you can persuade Thor to marry that woman he carries on with..."

Frigga was not sure whether to chide the Allfather for mentioning Thor's bedtime adventures with Sif, or to concur with her husband. She was torn between propriety and propriety. A most strange conflict indeed. She chose a third option, that being to focus on Loki and Sigyn.

"I think this is wonderful," Frigga said, " I shall have grandchildren, finally!"


Thor was not amused. His brother was getting married. Out of the blue, without really wanting to consider where that would leave Thor. He wanted a brother who could join him in many battles henceforth. This first campaign together had lit a fire in Thor's heart. He wanted his brother at his side in battle, and now this woman would get in the way. So soon after Loki found his inner warrior, and she had already hobbled him with her womanly wiles. Thor did not like this, not one bit. What Aesir would refrain from battle against Jotunn? His father had, for politics. Thor despised politics. He knew only war and battle, and he was the master of it.

Thor did not enjoy peace, he enjoyed victory. Loki had one a form of victory this day as well. The Allfather was clearly impressed by Loki's decision to honor the fair Sigyn. His rivalry with his brother being just the normal sort between siblings, he couldn't help but be happy for his brother. But that wasn't changing the fact that he had lost his newest and most beloved battle companion. Most beloved besides Sif anyway. He wouldn't admit to her, of course. He could marry her surely, and be husband and wife in battle together.


"Verily, this be good tidings, brother Loki!" Thor said with joy, " with you betrothed to lady Sigyn, it now falls upon me to do the right thing as well. I shall ask the hand of lady Sif. It has been many a fortnight since she took me in her arms, and I have put this off far too long."

[Loki Laufeyson]

As Loki introduced her, Sigyn spoke beautifully, and he squeezed her hand, proud to be standing beside her. She was the one he had chosen, and with good reason. She knew how to make a good impression, and she did so, easily earning his family's approval. Loki could tell his parents were happy even before they spoke.

He had been half-expecting Odin and Frigga to give him that special Look he always got whenever he played a trick on them, the Look that hovered between wanting to believe and suspecting something afoot. He had thought one of them might accuse him of playing a joke. If that was how they felt about it, they kept their true feelings well hidden.

Loki actually grinned, genuinely and fully, as Odin gave them permission to marry. Squeezing Sigyn's hand, he shared that smile with her. This was one half of the battle won. Now that it was accomplished, they could sit down to breakfast, and they did so. Next would be Sigyn's family for dinner, after she had consulted with her father as planned.

Frigga echoed her husband's sentiments with excitement over grandchildren, and Loki gave her a slight nod. They would have children, of course. Not right away, but in time. He wanted to enjoy his time with her first. They had eternity before them; they needed not rush anything they did not want to.

Overall, his parents' reactions had pleased him. Thor's… was another matter. Last to reply, he gave congratulations, then announced his own intentions. This gave Loki pause. What was his brother doing? Was he trying to steal Loki's moment? Consciously or not, that was what he had just done.

Loki had no idea that Thor had come to consider him an equal on the battlefield. He did not know that Thor feared for their future fighting beside each other. If he had known, he might have begun to understand. Instead, though, he felt only irritation. Still, he kept smiling, and nodded at Thor, thanking him for the acknowledgement.

"One battle at a time, my brother," Loki said with a forced laugh. "If you do ask the lady Sif for her hand, I wish you all the best." Loki could not imagine Thor married to anyone. Sif would be the best choice for his brother's nature, but still, the image felt all wrong. Thor was a ladies' man, the most eligible of bachelors. A wife did not suit his lifestyle at all, in Loki's opinion.

Loki nodded at his parents and Thor in turn. He and his brother would have to have a serious talk following breakfast. "We are most appreciative of and grateful for your approval. I will treat my lady with all the respect and care I have, as you have taught me." It was a strange statement, coming from the Trickster of Asgard, but it was genuine, and Sigyn would know it to be.

[Sigyn Laufeyson]

The thing Sigyn wanted most was to get Loki's family's approval. She thought he might marry her anyway, but feel more comfortable if they approved and it would indeed make most things much less complicated.
However, she knew about the strange relationship he had with his brother and father, a relationship laced with competition and the need to receive recognition. The God of Thunder seemed to be quite merry about the situation, so was the Allfather and his wife. However, Sigyn could not help, but notice, that both took Loki's big news and turned it around, making it about Thor. About how Thor had not picked a woman yet, how he had not gotten married and how Loki leading by example might turn this around. Thor even suggested that he'd get married to the Lady Sif now that Loki was making this step. Sigyn felt a rush of anger curling up in her stomach. Was this a competition as well? Picking a mate, falling in love, getting married? Would it have been that hard to let Loki have the attention for once? And how just would marrying the Lady Sif driven by competition be?

She just wanted them to approve. And they did. But the way Loki was put back into the place that he had not chosen to begin with just irritated Sigyn. However, she knew better than to complain about this or even show her anger. Her face remained its calm, happy self, as her grin grew. Glancing at Loki, she felt truly happy. For now, the lady ignored that there was still another family that had to give their approval. And while she doubted her mother would object now that the Allfather had given them his blessings, she knew it would turn out to be quite a pain. At least, until Loki would show up and force her mother to keep her manners.

Sigyn pursed her lips and looked at the ground for a second as Frigga mentioned grandchildren. She assumed her and Loki would have offspring of their own sooner or later, she just had not included this in her near future just yet. First, she wanted to enjoy her husband to be, not pregnancy. I wonder whether Thor will impregnate someone the moment I carrry Loki's child, just to keep the competition going., Sigyn thought.

She held his hand and closed her other around it, too. Her gaze was on the Allfather, Thor and Frigga. Sigyn lowered her head three times, respectfully thanking them. "I kindly thank you for your approval, my lords and lady. I will strive to be a worthy addition to this family.", Sigyn promised. She wanted to make sure they knew she was not going to take Loki away from them in any way.
"And I will not keep my husband from the honor of fighting for Asgard in battle," she added, this time giving the God of Thunder a smile.

Now that those questions were off the table, they all sat down in order to enjoy breakfast. Sigyn was on her best behaviour, as her mother had taught her. It was still awkward, but in a few years from now, it'd feel more natural to dine with the first family of Asgard.

[Thor Odinson]

"One battle at a time, my brother,"

Thor nodded. Indeed, one could get overwhelmed trying to fight the world. Loki had the wisdom of father seemingly, but he possessed a cunning that defied explanation. It was unheard of in Asgard to use guile in the manner of which Loki had become the undisputed master. As Thor was master of warfare and feats of strength, his brother was master of manipulations and solving problems. He had shown himself handy in a fight as well. That was the way of the Aesir, of course. Though the realm was at peace, they were Gods of War, ultimately. Their kindred, the Vanir, were gods of Peace, and prosperity. The two had once fought in an epic war that resulted in Vanaheim becoming subject to Asgardian rule. As currently all Nine Realms were.
The Vanir ways had intermingled with the Aesir ways, and now the realm tended to seek the balance between war and peace. But Thor was pure Aesir, and epitomized that culture.

It was hard for him not to rush into battle, when glory was to be had. Today glory was not won in battle, however. It had been won in a peaceful pursuit, that being love and marriage. The lady Sigyn would be wed to Loki Odinson, and become a princess of Asgard. This was indeed a glorious day. But it wasn't Thor's day. And that tainted things for Thor. His brother had beaten him, and that was not acceptable. He would catch up, at the least.

"If you do ask the lady Sif for her hand, I wish you all the best."


"And I you, in your marriage to the lovely lady Sigyn," Thor said with a nod. He smiled at her, and raised a glass, " I drink to your happiness, milady!"

And true to his word, he downed the remnants of his flagon, and threw it upon the ground, shattering it. He did things like that, for it amused him. Someone would clean it up. Odin sighed, and Frigga fretted. But Odin had to commence with the breakfast that had been planned for today.

He regarded Sigyn warmly, " We thank you for loving our son, and we welcome you into our hearts and home. Your parents must feast with us soon, for we would have words with them. They have raised such a praiseworthy daughter, they must know it!"

"And I will not keep my husband from the honor of fighting for Asgard in battle"

"Huzzah!" Thor exclaimed, before lifting a leg of mutton up to his mouth, and devouring the meat with relish. This was a wondrous good thing to hear. His brother would not be unmanned, after all. That was the best thing he had heard all morning!

[Loki Laufeyson]

It could most certainly be true that Sigyn was more perceptive than Loki, especially in this moment. Loki had seen the displeasure in his brother's face for the split second before his cheery answer, but could not place what had caused that displeasure. Perhaps it was simply that his anger over Thor's reaction clouded his judgment. Whatever the case, Sigyn was able to see what he had missed.

An amused look crossed Loki's face as Thor drank from and then smashed the flagon. Though the move clearly bothered their parents, Loki took it for what it was - a gesture of honest happiness for Loki and his wife-to-be. These actions of Thor's did annoy him from time to time, but today he was glad to see it, for once. It meant Thor's congratulations were sincere.

Odin's words to Sigyn brought a genuine smile to Loki's face. His father knew how to speak, of course. He was a ruler, and the ability to lead included a need for words and an understanding of how to use them. But in this instance, Loki found himself actually feeling flattered on Sigyn's behalf, and excited for their families to meet.

It was then that Sigyn said exactly what Loki had not known Thor needed to hear. Had he really been that concerned over Loki not joining him in battle upon his marriage? Loki had not realized Thor had even noticed his presence. Only in the campaign they had just returned from had Thor shown him any attention or praise, and that, Loki assumed, was because Loki had been so gravely wounded. Why, his brother was just full of surprises sometimes.

Loki reached for an apple. "This evening I will visit my lady Sigyn's family and ask her father for her hand in marriage," he explained to the others. "I will take with me the confidence gained from your approval of our relationship." The fact that Odin and Frigga approved of Sigyn pleased him greatly, and Thor's approval, somehow even more so. Loki thought Thor might be interested to know of Sigyn's skill with weapons and battle. He would tell his brother later.

"And of course, dear brother Thor, I will be glad to keep riding into battle right behind you." He tossed the apple and gave Thor a grin before taking a bite out of the fruit, not as voraciously as Thor had treated the poor leg of mutton, but with no small amount of satisfaction. It had been a while since he had eaten, and, well, the vigorous activities of the night before had left him particularly hungry.

[Sigyn Laufeyson]

"Thank you, my lord," Sigyn said, inclining her head towards the God of Thunder. With a loud noise, the flagon shattered on the ground. Sigyn widened her eyes shortly, yet this was nothing she had not seen before. She took it this was Thor's way of showing his happiness for his brother? She dearly hoped so. Loki deserved this. For once, it should be his moment. Their moment.

Sigyn inclined her head towards Odin just as well. "And I thank you, Allfather, for welcoming me with open arms."
Loki explained the particulars of their planning. He would come to her house and propose to her father as he was supposed to do it. Only that Sigyn would have this talk with her parents. A conversation she dreaded and looked forward to alike. Her father would probably be happy for her. Her mother....not so much.
She put her hand on Loki's arm, squeezed it. "My parents will be most delighted to receive these tidings. It truly is an honor." She was not going to marry Loki for honor, though. She was going to marry him for love. Could there be a better reason? She thought not.

She had that small urge to demand that Loki'd ride next to Thor. Not behind him, but with him. Showing himself as equal to the God of Thunder. But it was not her call to make, was it? She wanted the royal family to be in her favor. For now. Once Loki and her had tied the knot, things might be different. She still felt excited, anxious, nervous. Sigyn wanted to smile forever and she had a hard time not looking like an entire love-fool, keep her composure. She didn't feel like eating, her stomach was full with all those butterflies Loki was causing her. But in order to remain polite, she picked up some grapes and other fruit and commenced her own breakfast as the others did.

"My mother is a frequent visitor to public events at court, I believe you two have met, my Queen?", she asked Loki's mother. Oh, Freia would love this, Frigga recognizing her, her daughter. Sigyn was quite pleased Odin was conidering her this praiseworthy, especially since she had never been enough of a Lady in her mother's eyes, not well-mannered enough, not equipped with the proper interests a lady should have. Freia had always been scared Sigyn would make a bad impression that would fall back on herself. Now, seeing how happy the royal family was about their marriage, it gave Sigyn peace of mind, a calming feeling of superiority.

For she'd be a Princess of Asgard, while her mother would remain a lady.

[Loki Laufeyson]

The women spoke of public events and the like, of things Loki had seldom taken much notice of. If he had ever met Freia, he did not remember it; however, it was indeed very likely that she had met his parents, being who they were. And so Frigga and Sigyn launched into a brief conversation about this and that event, while Odin asked Loki a few questions about Sigyn, how they had met and such. Loki answered the questions honestly, but briefly for now.

Breakfast was excellent, though it was hardly different from any other aside from Sigyn's presence. Loki had hardly ever been prouder of any decision he had ever made. Sigyn had won the hearts of his family easily, and rightfully so. She was wonderful. amazing, and it showed. She fit in with them as well; if she was nervous, he could hardly tell it.

She would make a stunning princess, to be admired and revered by all. Loki squeezed her hand under the table occasionally, just because he could. When breakfast was over, he excused himself from his family's company temporarily and walked with Sigyn out of the dining hall. He knew she would soon go to speak with her father, before he joined her to ask for her hand. Hopefully all would go well.

"I will join you soon, my love." He pulled her close and kissed her deeply, enough to get him through the next few hours without her by his side. It was odd - for he had been happy alone for so long, but now could barely stand to be away from his lover for even a short period of time.

He would spend that time talking to Frigga, most likely, seeking her wisdom and advice in asking for Sigyn's hand. This was something he had never done before, of course, and he did not want to risk botching it. He wanted to show Sigyn's family the utmost respect, even if he did know and disapprove of how Freia treated her daughter. He would have to find some way to get past that.

[Sigyn Laufeyson]

Sigyn was utterly impressed how easily talking to Frigga came to her, given how nervous she had been to meet Loki’s family like this, as his betrothed, as his future wife. Luckily, the Queen – being utterly attentive – understood Sigyn’s mood and nervousness and helped her out. Indeed, Frigga knew who her mother was. In fact, it seemed she was aware of almost every woman attending court to meet the Queen. How very delightful. Frigga was a smart and warm woman, it was visible on her soft features and in her voice. Sigyn’s nervousness towards Frigga faded, but she was still quite careful and cautious about Odin and Thor. The God of Thunder in particularly, seemed to have been rubbed the wrong way by Loki’s and Sigyn’s announcement. Did she want his absolution? Yes, for her husband-to-be.

Soon, breakfast was over. Sigyn bid her future family-in-law goodbye. Together with Loki, they left the hall. That was when her nervousness returned. She had spent the night with Loki, had not told her mother a thing about it. Moreover, she was not only going to face a storm of accusations – and threats for repercussions – for having been out all night with a man she was not married to, but her mother’s wrath about her upcoming marriage. Sigyn secretly planned on leaving Freia in the dark about it. She was going to tell her father. It’d probably be better to bring the news to Freia with Loki around. She would not throw a tantrum with Loki around and after dinner, she would be quite careful to ask Sigyn to cancel this betrothal, because Loki had already proposed. The only way Freia could let her anger out on Sigyn would be if her mother learned about this before Loki asked them for Sigyn’s hand.

”I’ll see you soon, my love,” Sigyn smiled nonetheless, engaging in a little make-out session right here in the hallway with Loki, that knew no bounds. The joy of reunited lovers. It was beautiful.

Sigyn walked home quickly. It was her nervousness driving her. A gardener was grooming the trees in the front yard of her parents’ house. Sigyn greeted him quickly, took the servant’s entrance to the mansion and immediately bumped into Greta.
”Sigyn! By the Allfather!”, Greta rushed over, pulling Sigyn into a deep hug instantly, ”How fare you?”, the woman asked, giving Sigyn’s face a once over. Upon detecting that smile on her face however, Greta sighed relievedly. ”It is all over the city. Everybody is talking about it.”
”And here I thought we had been sneaky.”, Sigyn joked. Greta gave her an intense look.
”I know, I know, I should have behaved, but,-“, she explained, shrugging. Greta had been in about Sigyn’s heartache, much in contrast to her own parents.
”I should lecture you about spending the night with a man, yet I can’t help but be happy when I see you smile like that,” Greta said, being torn between pursing her lips in a subtle lecture and smiling with Sigyn.
”Fear not, Greta, all is well! Nothing happened on a whim. He,-“ Sigyn explained, biting her lip, ”He asked for my hand. I spent breakfast with the Allfather, Thor and Frigga. We are going to get married, Greta!”
”Hurray!”, Greta laughed, tears forming in her eyes. Tears of joy and comopassion. Tears Sigyn’s mother would never shed. She pulled her in again. For a few minutes, they were just standing there, in each other’s arms, Greta mumbling well-wishes, terms of endearment and kisses into Sigyn’s skin.

”Greta, I need to find my father. Loki is going to ask them tonight and I want to prepare him.”, Sigyn eventually said.
”He’s in the salon, but…be careful,” Greta adviced. Sigyn knew exactly what the maid was talking about. Her mother was lurking about.
”Thank you, Greta,” Sigyn said, putting a kiss on her cheek., taking off to find her father.

Iwaldi, the dwarf, was sitting in his armchair, reading a book with a concentrated frown on his face, when Sigyn appeared in the living room. He did not even bother to look up.
”So, daughter of mine,” he said sternly, the hint of amusement in his voice. Iwaldii was much more laid back than her mother. Sadly, he had given up fighting her.
Sigyn sat down on the ground, right in front of her father, putting her hands on his leg. ”I apologize for having taken off just like that last night,-“ Sigyn started. Iwaldi interrupted her, though. .”….and for not telling us about your acquaintance with Prince Loki in the first place?”. Iwaldi still did not look up. But a smile was tugging on the corners of his mouth.
”That, too,” Sigyn said, blushing actually.
”Well, my dear,” the dwarf retorted, finally looking up, ”I guess we know now.”
He put the book down, put his hand on Sigyn’s cheek. ”You look happy, my daughter.”, he noticed.
”But I am, father. I am. I came to tell you something, as I would not want you to be taken by surprise.”, she hurried to say.
”I am all ears,” Iwaldi grinned. He knew exactly what was coming.
”Tonight, the Prince will join us for dinner. He is going to,-“, Sigyn explained.
”Going to do what?”, Freia’s voice sounded as she entered the room, face in grim lines, arms crossed in front of her chest.
Iwaldi sighed. Sigyn got up in a rush. ”Mother!”, she exclaimed. Sigyn should not be surprised. Freia was a sneaky one.
”Going to do what, my daughter, who ambushed Prince Loki in a public place, for everyone to behold, only to spent the night with him. I take it you did exactly that, for I am lacking any other reasonable explanation for your absence last night.”, Freia spoke calmly, yet full of poison.
Sigyn got anry right away. Freia did this to her. It took just one word well put, and her inner tantrums were gathering to explode.
”He is going to ask you for my hand in marriage. He already asked for the Allfather’s approval. He and the Queen happily welcomed me into their family.”, Sigyn strongly and proudly announced. There was no way Freia could forbid her to marry Loki now. She’d play against her own rules and morals. Her standing was everything to the woman. Objecting to royal wishes was not something Freia would lightly do.

Behind Sigyn, Iwaldi smiled a wide smile, that froze upon seeing the angry gaze on his wife’s face.
”Have you lost your mind, young lady? Being momentarily enchanted by a man is one thing, but marrying him? On a whim? This is not acceptable, Sigyn.”, Freia remarked,, approaching closer.
”I did not fall for him on a whim. We’ve been falling for each other for months now. I kept it secret. Besides, what are you going to do about it, mother? Disregard his royal wish to become my husband? Isn’t it most important to you to be acknowledged. Now, you will be. You cannot break what the Allfather has already blessed.”
”Oh, you would not believe what I am capable of, Sigyn,” Freia hissed.
”Worry not, mother. For I will not live with you for much longer. You will be without the burden of having such an unruly wench as a daughter, soon.”, Sigyn said, her voice trembling. She rushed past Freia, but her mother got a hold of her arm and stopped her.
”Where do you think you are going?”, Freia spat.
”Into my room! I spent the whole night making love and being made love to. I am exhausted and sore. Now, if you'll excuse me,” Sigyn almost yelled into Freia’s face. She knew she should not have said this, especially since her father was around.
Freia’s straightened palm landed on Sigyn’s cheek instantly, sending Sigyn’s face to the side. The clap was echoing in the room.
”Whoa,” iwaldi cried, stepping in between the two women.
”There is nothing you can do. For I will be a princess of Asgard and you will still be a peasant,” Sigyn hissed into her mother’s face as she straightened up. Freia’s jaw dropped open.
”I am sorry, father,” Sigyn said much calmer, running off to her room.

She was so angry, she kicked around her pillows for a moment, brushing her hand through her hair, pacing restlessly through the room. She would have cried if not for the sanctity in knowing that she’d be moving out soon to live with Loki. It was all about Loki.
Eventually, Sigyn laid down and fell into a restless slumber.

She woke up from the touch of a hand softly stroking her cheek.
”Wake up, my dear,” her father’s voice whispered into her face. Sigyn blinked.
”Father,” she moaned sleepily.
”Everything will be fine, Sigyn. Your mother can throw all the tantrums in the Nine Realms. You know her, she will not object. The servants are preparing everything for dinner. You and the Prince have my blessing. I am happy for you,” Iwaldi softly spoke. It drove the tears right into her eyes.
”Shhh,” he hushed her, putting a kiss on her forehead, ”you might want to get ready, though.”
Sigyn nodded, rubbing her eyes. ”I’ll leave you to your business,”, Iwaldi said, getting up. He stopped before leaving the room. ”Oh and I hope all that love making is going to produce some grandchildren soon.”

Sigyn smiled. ”How can you still be with her?”, she asked.
”It’s simple, my dear. Love.” the dwarf shrugged. He then left.
Love could conquer all, they said. If only her father had as much of a backbone for his daughter, as he held love for his horrible wife.

Shortly before dinner, Sigyn was all ready and groomed and dressed. The house smelled lovely of the best food the cooks were able to produce. Greta was already downstairs, preparing. Sigyn sat on her bed, nervously waiting to be called downstairs. Downstairs, where Loki would be waiting for her. She had not seen her mother the whole day. And as far as she was concerned, she had no regrets about this.

[Loki Laufeyson]

In the privacy of the palace's library, Frigga sat paging through some old texts, waiting. She did not have to wait long, for just after a servant arrived with a light lunch, Loki entered, and took a seat next to her.

"I am proud of you, Loki," she told him, taking his hand. "We certainly did not expect this, but you have chosen very well, your father and I both agree."

She was surprised by Loki's lack of response. The prince only nodded slightly and gave her a faint smile. Returning the smile, she asked, "Are you nervous?"

"Yes." It was unusual for Loki to admit such things, but this was just between him and his mother. "I know not how this will end, and I… fear hurting her again. Yet I cannot imagine how we will go on without me causing her pain. You know who I am, Mother. Am I to change my own nature so quickly?"

"No, darling. You must take your time, and you must be prepared for pain, for no relationship is without it. What matters is how you face that pain."

Loki nodded and squeezed Frigga's hand.

"…'Again,' my son?"

Looking away, he explained, "We had been seeing each other for five months. She was… hesitant. I chose to… not to wait. And when I told her of my indiscretions, I treated her like some peasant. So you see, I have already hurt her once."

"I see." Frigga's expression became stern, but softness remained in her tone. "You needs must be more cautious, my darling. A heart is a fragile thing, and now hers is in your care."

"Yes, Mother."

"You must also be more discreet. The city was ringing with rumors of your night with the lady Sigyn this morning."

He had not realized that. Loki blushed - a deep red, unusual for him. "I did not mean to dishonor her."

"You do her, and us, much honor. You have asked for her hand, as is well and right for a man and woman of your status. I will admit that I am still a bit shocked, but I had not known there was a woman in your life all this time." Frigga gave her son a bright smile and nudged him gently.

"I was not sure when or how to tell you."

"You do us proud, Loki. And in time, you two will give us beautiful grandchildren." Frigga beamed at the thought. "Remember to be respectful tonight, and to uphold your family's honor as well as hers. Above all, do not be nervous. You are wonderful in every way, Loki, and you will win over her family easily. Do not doubt that."

Loki managed a smile. "Thank you, Mother."

"Now." Frigga picked up a bunch of grapes from the lunch tray. "Tell me more about your Sigyn. She seems absolutely delightful."


When dinner time arrived, Loki was dressed and on his way to Sigyn's home. He knew the way well, and made good time, arriving not too early and not late. Knocking lightly at the door, he waited to be granted entrance, all the while hoping he would not mess this up.

He had already considered what he would say. He would introduce himself to Sigyn's father first, perhaps strike up a short conversation. Then, before much longer, he would make his request, as surely by now the man expected he would. Sigyn had said she would speak with her father beforehand; Loki hoped she had been able to do so.

He was dressed in green and black, not in full armor, but in some of the nicest attire he owned, a nod to both the importance of the evening and the family's status. Armor would have given a more warlike, standoffish feel, he had thought. He would see whether he had been right.

Most of the day had passed without Sigyn at his side, and he was more than happy to see her again now. They could hardly be separated after this, if all went well. The outcome of this evening would determine so much. It would shape their future. For certainly he wanted to honor Sigyn, but even so, she would be his, and they would be together, with or without her family's blessing. That was simply an added advantage, a way of making things easier.

He could not fail.

[Sigyn Laufeyson]

Minutes passed by like hours. Sigyn grew quite impatient. Being alone with her mind right now was an exhausting thing. Her thoughts were happy mostly, dealing with Loki, his wit, his smile, the love in his eyes when he looked at her and that delicate part that connected his belly button with his crotch, soft, pale skin for her to kiss if she pleased. But her mother was on her mind as well. The hatred in her eyes as they had fought. Had it been jealousy? Sigyn didn't know.
Perchance, underneath it all, Freia had been happy Sigyn had not wanted to become a lady as her mother had wanted. Maybe, Freia had expected never to get married to a man of status, at least not a prince, so her daughter would not exceed her mother's own status. Now that Sigyn was going to become a princess. Bottom line was, Sigyn was angry. Angry that her mother had never accepted her as who she truly was, that wrath and discipline were her main tools, that Freia was incapable of being happy for Sigyn.

She could not wait to leave this house for good. She only regretted leaving her father behind. Apparently however, the dwarf loved his wife still.


Greta opened the door. She immediately inclined her head. "Welcome, my lord," she said. The maiden was perfectly able to hide the grin that was forming on her inside. This was her ward's love. Actually, Greta considered Sigyn her daughter. Not that she had said anything like this to Freia ever, or Sigyn, even.
"Please, follow me."
Of course, she did not introduce herself. She knew Sigyn had told Loki about herself. Yet she was only a maiden. Her name did not matter, not yet. At least, introducing herself was not her call to make.
She led the prince through the vast, gold and white hallway, back into the salon, where Iwaldi sat in his armchair and Freia was standing by the window. The dwarf immediately got up as Loki and Greta entered. What he lacked in size, he had in composure. Though physically short, Iwaldi appeared tall. Freia, indeed sharing a remarkable resemblance with her daughter, was dressed in her finest dress. Both bowed their heads.
"Prince Loki," Iwaldi spoke, "Welcome to our humble home. It is truly an honor." Somehow, the dwarf managed to sound casual, but polite enough to not be accused of being disrespectful.
"My lord," Freia greeted him, her head still bowed.
"Greta, would you please gather our daughter," Iwaldi said. Greta nodded and left to go upstairs, while Iwaldi and Freia engaged in some casual conversation about court, his parents and Asgard.

--
"Sigyn," Greta said after having opened the door, "He's here."
Sigyn stood instantly, straightening her purple dress.
"How does he look?", Sigyn stuttered, smiling, trying to fix her hair, that actually looked fine.
"Very handsome, love. You've chosen well."
"HE'S SO HANDSOME, IS HE NOT?", Sigyn giggled, almost like a child!
"He indeed is," Greta said. She put a hand on Sigyn's cheek, kissed the other. "Now, go."

Sigyn smiled, about to take off. In the doorframe however, she stopped.
"I am going to take you with me when I move to the palace, Greta. I will make it happen." There was no way she was going to leave her behind.
"I should hope so," Greta said.

Sigyn had her hands in front of her, her shoulders straightened and a trademark smile on her face. A fake one, the one her mother had taught her. Underneath lay her mischievous, loving smile. Loki could tell the one from the other.

"Hello, my lord," she said as she entered the salon. The conversation stopped. No matter the formalities, no matter what was expected of them, the gaze they exchanged was the one of lovers, without condition, without manners, without the corset of society. Greta had lied. Loki did not look handsome.
He looked absolutely, breathtakingly dashing.

[Loki Laufeyson]

Thankfully, it was Greta who answered the door. Loki had not met her personally, but he had heard much about her, and recognized her easily. He gave her a gentle smile. "Good evening," he responded, and followed Greta inside, through the foyer and into the salon. There stood the parents of his intended. He felt a brief stab of anxiety as their gazes fell upon him. It was easy to smile at Iwaldi, who seemed genuinely pleased to meet Loki. While he could see much of Sigyn's features in Freia, but that did not help him like her any more. With some effort, he set aside all the dislike he had formed for her, having heard Sigyn's stories, and gave her a small smile.

"I am honored that you have welcomed me into your beautiful home," Loki answered, with all the charm and polite sincerity he had been taught over the years. As Greta fetched Sigyn, they continued to converse, discussing such things as related to court and Asgard. Loki felt fortunate that the topics they discussed were ones he knew much about and could discuss at length with ease. It kept his mind off his slight nervousness.

Indeed, he found the pair easy to talk to, and the conversation was only ended by Sigyn's arrival. He saw both smiles on her face, and understood which was intended for him. However, he did not join her in hiding their affection; he could not stop a natural smile from forming on his lips and a look of love in his eyes.

"Hello, my lady," he responded, taking her hand and placing a chaste kiss on it. He did not have to remind himself that they were being watched. For a moment, he shared her gaze, reading everything he could in her eyes. Only a few hours had passed, yet he had missed her. What a strange feeling for him, to have grown that attached to someone.

Turning to Iwaldi and Freia, he decided that this was the moment. He could wait no longer. "My gracious hosts," he began, "I have enjoyed our conversation, and I dearly hope I have begun to earn your regard and respect. For I have come here today to ask for the hand of your daughter, the fair Lady Sigyn, in marriage."

He paused, his eyes on Iwaldi, his hands gripping Sigyn's, waiting for the words that could change his life, or perhaps destroy it.

[Sigyn Laufeyson]

Oh, to hell with chaste kisses! Sigyn's fingers were itching as he kissed her. How she wanted to dive this hand into his beautifully groomed her for the mere purpose of messing it up. How she wanted to press her body flush against his and kiss him and giggle and tease him. She knew, she could not possibly do it. They just had to get there, somehow. She had to move out, leave this home, because wherever Loki was not, was not a place Sigyn wanted to be.

However, Sigyn had not reckoned with Loki proposing to her father that quickly. Apparently, neither of her parents had expected it to happen so soon, either. It was obvious on their faces. However, Iwaldi's and Freia's expressions could not have been more different. Iwaldi smiled, looking a little smug, but seriously pleased. Freia's smile however, was frozen on her face. Maybe, Sigyn only realized, because she knew her mother well, could tell a real smile from a fake one. But since Loki was the king of lies, he might detect its fakeness nonetheless.

"Those are good tidings, my lord," Iwaldi said, approaching Sigyn and Loki. Freia followed as it was expected of her. The dwarf brushed over Sigyn's lower arm, looking up at his daughter. "I'll gladly grant you my permission and moreover, my blessings. I do not have to remind you of a father's wrath about his only daughter being treated badly, must I?", Iwaldi joked.
Was it a joke, really? Of course, he would not be pleased if Loki treated Sigyn badly. And perhaps, he'd take action if that were the case. But once again, the dwarf managed to talk in such a charming way that most people would simply not be able to take offence.
"So it happens, my beautiful, smart and cunning girl, that I give you into the hand of another man. It surely comes too soon and in time," he said, squeezing Sigyn's hand. She bent down, gave her father a squeeze and a kiss on his cheek. Iwaldi then turned to Loki.
"My lord," he said, offering his hand.

Freia, having approached just as much, gave Sigyn a fake smile that was destined to be seen by Loki, and bowed to her future son in law. "I concur to my husband in all regards. It truly is an honor, Prince Loki. I am happy my daughter has found such an honorable man to wed."
In contrast to Iwaldi however, Freia did not kiss or even touch Sigyn. Good, for Sigyn was almost sick to her stomach about the show her mother was putting down.

[Loki Laufeyson]

Perhaps Loki had been too sudden or too forward, for looks of surprise were evident all around him. Still, he did not regret it. He could not have kept up the pretense. If Sigyn's parents would refuse him her hand, he would know it now, and end the charade before he embarrassed himself further. Moreover, he did not want to risk saying something he might regret, especially toward Freia, whose faults he was well aware of.

Fortunately, the social faux pas was overlooked and Iwaldi gave his consent. A wave of relief washed over Loki. He and Sigyn were free to marry. He felt somewhat irritated that he'd had to ask for permission from both sides, that he could not simply have done what he wanted. For surely then they would have been married sooner, if not already. Why should they wait, when they were still as good as married?

Though Iwaldi may have meant it as a joke, the point was not lost on Loki. "I will treat her well, of course," Loki answered in a similar tone, light yet serious at the same time. He was well aware of the fury he would find himself at the mercy of should he mistreat his beloved. She was well loved by many, who would not hesitate to put even a prince in his place if it came down to it.

Loki took Iwaldi's hand. "Thank you, sir. This means everything to me." And it did. Loki was glad to have his soon-to-be father-in-law's blessing. It made things much simpler, much more honorable. And combined with his own parents' blessings, they were ready to be wed whenever they wanted.

He gave Freia a respectful nod. "And thank you, madame. I am pleased that we are all in agreement." He saw through Freia easily, that fake smile she had put on, the emptiness behind her words. Fortunately, he was able to hold his tongue. Oh, well. Soon he would take Sigyn away from here, away from that despicable woman.

"Our families should share a meal soon, as we will soon me united," Loki said casually, trying not to sound like the pompous royal he sometimes was. "My parents are excited to meet you, and send their best wishes."

He glanced at Sigyn and took her hand again, giving her a smile. She would be able to see the relief and happiness in it, and the love as well.

[Sigyn Laufeyson]

"Oh, by all means, call me Iwaldi," Sigyn's father said, chuckling. Her mother barely managed to contain herself hearing her husband offering this. Freia would possibly have preferred her husband to be adressed formally. Oh, how much Freia would have liked hearing a prince of Asgard call her husband by his title! Iwaldi however, was more casual than that. After all, Loki was about to marry his daughter. Iwaldi was a family man, even though his wife had a lot of other priorities. However, Iwaldi's action did not leave Reia much choice.
"I concur yet again, please, my lord Loki, call me Freia," she said. It was incredible how sweet and nice she managed to sound, when in fact, she was more than displeased. However, Freia beamed upon hearing Loki's invitation. Dining with the royal family, exclusively. Now, that was right up her ally, was it not? "We'd be honored to join you, my lord. We shall return the invitation."

Sigyn's hand, held by his, was shaking from excitment. She wanted nothing more than falling around Loki's neck and cover him in kisses. Her father seemed to notice.
"Well then, love, why don't we change into the dining room already? Feel free to join us whenever you are ready," he said, winking at both, Loki and Sigyn. Freia inclined her head and followed, of course. A moment later, Sigyn and Loki were by themselves.

Without any warning, Sigyn fell around Loki's neck, held on tightly and kissed his jaw. "I am so happy this went smoothly, although my mother is very mad we had a fight earlier but I told her off I can't wait to become your wife are you hungry the cook has prepared amazing food tonight I don't want to stay here for one more day, by Odin, I love you.", she hurried to say, making no breaks or giving him any chance to say what he had to say - if there was anything to begin with.

[Loki Laufeyson]

As Loki had expected, Iwaldi was kind enough, even going so far as to suggest Loki refer to him by his first name. Even Freia agreed, though Loki could tell it was more out of compulsion in her case. "Then I hope you will simply consider me but Loki," he responded, with a smile that gave away his fading nerves.

"I will inform my family, and we will arrange something," he said of the invitation to dinner. He was not at his most eloquent for the moment, as he was still gathering his wits after focusing so hard on asking for Sigyn's hand. Now that it was done, he could free his mind to think of different things. Though, in truth, his thoughts now turned to being alone with Sigyn, for the night. There was a dinner to get through first, of course, and he was fairly certain they would have to announce their engagement to the realm at large sometime before night fell.

Perhaps that could wait til the morrow.

The others moved to the dining room, and Sigyn immediately fell upon him, speaking so quickly that Loki could barely understand her. He chuckled and wrapped his arms around her, then gave her a passionate kiss, quite unlike the one he had greeted her with. "I love you too, Sigyn," he told her with a smile. He was a little concerned that she and her mother had apparently fought, but she seemed fine, so he did not think on it too much.

With that thought, he glanced around for a moment. "Where is Greta? I would speak with her."