Loki's Redemption

Chapter 30

Elsewhere

“We have heard nothing from Freyr for some time now.”

Malekith barely looks up to acknowledge the gravelly voice of his second in command.  The leader of the Dark Elves is well aware that his co conspirator has not reported to him in many months.

“There are whispers, rumors, that he is dead,” the armored creature continues.

Still not eliciting a noticeable reaction from Malekith, he slams his fist down on the table between himself and his leader in frustration. “If he was found out, our role may be known to Odin!  We must act now, before the armies of Asgard are upon us.”

Finally, slowly, Malekith raises his gaze.  In a measured voice, devoid of any sense of urgency he replies, “I am well aware of the possibilities Algrim.  I will not be rushed into action on the basis of unconfirmed stories spread by undisciplined children.”

The tone used by his superior, leaves no room for question.  Algrim knows what he must do. Seek out the truth and destroy those within his ranks that dare to speak of things that undermine the iron fist with which he and Malekith lead.

Asgard

Loki strides into the throne room and is grateful to see that it is relatively devoid of people. He approaches Odin and waits patiently for The Allfather to acknowledge him. When the petty dignitary before Odin finally turns to leave, Loki takes a step closer to his adoptive father.

"Father, I would have a word with you."

"Of course Loki," Odin answers.

"In private, please."

With a curt nod, Odin turns to his guards and quietly instructs them to clear the throne room. When everyone is gone and only 2 guards remain, Odin turns to Loki, "Now, what is it my son?"

Loki glances at the 2 guards standing near the throne. Odin follows his gaze and gestures to the guards to leave them alone. Turning to Loki, he quirks an eyebrow at him, wondering what matter could possibly be so sensitive in nature.

"Now what is it you wish to discuss?" Odin asks him.

"I have come to ask for protections for Shelia should I be put to death," Loki tells the King. Odin doesn't respond immediately, only indicates that Loki should continue. "It is not safe for her to return to Midgard and circumstances have changed so that I feel she should be granted citizenship to Asgard and remain under the protections of the palace."

"What of Tony Stark? I thought he was to provide a new identity for her? Do you not trust his ability to protect her?"

"I did, but as I said, circumstances have changed," Loki tells him.

With a sigh Odin looks to the younger man before him, "My son, if you seek the protection of this throne for her, you must explain why."

Loki knows he cannot keep the child a secret for long and keeping both Shelia and the baby on Asgard is the only way to ensure the child is raised and trained to rule. "Shelia carries my child," he states simply.

"I see. Allow me to think on this matter. Return here tomorrow morning and I shall give my decision."

"Thank you father,” Loki says dipping his head slightly, then turns on his heel to leave.

"One last thing," Odin calls after him causing Loki to stop in place. "Do you love her?"

Without turning Loki closes his eyes and responds, "Yes I love her," then continues out the door.