Loki's Redemption

Chapter 38

Coronation Day

Shelia wakes up when she hears the chamber door open.  She has become accustomed to servants entering the room to see to their various needs and so she doesn’t react as 2 girls enter carrying piles of garments in their arms.  They proceed in to the dressing area presumably to place the garments and then move into the bath area where Shelia can hear water begin to run.

A few minutes later one of the girls approaches the bed, “Milady? It is time to begin  preparations for the coronation.”

When Shelia doesn’t immediately move she presses, “please, we must get you prepared.”

With a sigh, Shelia looks over at Loki who is still sleeping and then sits up on the edge of the bed.  She gives a small smile to the young lady and then follows her into the bath area. 

The bath water has been scented with something that smells vaguely like flowers.  Shelia turns to the girls and waits for them to leave before getting undressed.  Instead of leaving they look at her expectantly and it takes Shelia a moment to realize they mean to assist her in bathing.  “Um…. I think I’m ok here.  I can manage,” she tells them, her face coloring just a little. 

She is relieved when the older of the 2 tips her head in acknowledgment, “as you wish milady.  We shall lay out your gown choices.”

“Yes, thank you!”  Shelia tells her greatly relieved.

Once the girls are out of the room Shelia disrobes and climbs into the water.  It is hot without being uncomfortable and she finds the scent soothing.  She takes a few moments to relax before beginning to wash her hair.

When she emerges from the bath area, she finds that Loki is not in the room and her undergarments are laid out on the bed.  She quickly puts them on and walks into the dressing area. “Ah…there you are. Prince Loki asked us to inform you that he had to leave to begin his duties for the coronation.  You are to meet him in the Throne room prior to the ceremony.  In the mean time, breakfast will be here soon and we can help you choose a gown.”

There are 3 gowns to choose from.  The first one is blue with gray highlights.  Floor length with a low neckline.  The skirts are enormous and she dislikes it instantly.  The second one is red with gold highlights.  It has a corseted bodice that would show off her curves, with a long fitted skit, but looks uncomfortable. 

The final dress looked like it would complement Loki’s ceremonial armor.  It is green with a fitted top, sleeves that came just past the elbow, and a simple flowing black skirt made of a gauzy material.  There is a bronzed chest armor plate, intricately carved with a lion on the lower right side and more abstract designs on the rest of it.  It is simple and lovely and Shelia knows instantly that this is the one she will be wearing.  The servant girls give a knowing smile to each other as Shelia runs a hand along the armored pieces.

“Prince Loki picked this one out himself.  He had hoped you would approve, but wanted you to have other options,” the older girl explains.  Shelia smiles brightly at them then turns back to examining the dress. 

The girls have to help Shelia attach the armor plates once she is in the dress and then they work to braid and style her hair into an intricate style that is both beautiful and practical.  They weave leather ties in the braids and then work to apply a light application of makeup. In the end Shelia is not sure she even recognizes herself.

As the time for the coronation draws near, the girls escort Shelia to the Throne room.  “You will not be expected to say anything.  You will simply stand at Prince Loki’s side during the ceremony.  After, there is usually a large feast and celebrating.  There will still be a feast, but the atmosphere is expected to be somber given that tomorrow is the send off for all lost in battle.”

Shelia nods to the girls as they open the side door to the Throne room.  They usher her through the door and to Loki’s side.  His face is drawn and he stands rigid beside the empty throne.  As he sees her approach he gives her a small smile as he takes in the dress she has chosen.  He is pleased that she chose to wear his colors and he knew she would be stunning in the dress.  As she takes her place at his side, the main doors are opened and members of the council begin to file in.  They take their seats to the right side of the throne.  The palace guards have now started to allow the rest of the people in to the throne room.  They will bear witness to the coronation of the new King.  There are some noble men and women in attendance but most are families of those slain in the Dark Elf attack.  Loki had personally insured that each family was invited to attend. 

Thankfully the ceremony is short.  With no presiding King in place, the council members act in his stead.  After a quick, albeit unnecessary vote, the leader of the council makes a brief declaration to the crowd, “All stand and bear witness to Asgard’s King!”

A roar rumbles across the crowd as they acknowledge the sovereignty of their new King.

Thor steps forward to address the throne room, “This is an honor that I shoulder with a heavy heart. With the loss of the AllMother and the AllFather taken by the Odinsleep, Asgard has suffered a great loss, but we are a strong people and with the help and council of my broker Loki, Asgard will continue to provide stability, leadership and protection to the 9 realms.”  

Thor raises Mjolnir above his head as the crowd roars again in response.  Thor begins to walk through the throne room.  Loki takes Shelia by the elbow and guides her through the crowd after Thor towards the banquet hall.  Loki leads her straight through the room and ushers her to a seat.  “Darling remain here,” he murmurs as he kisses her cheek and then he disappears into the growing crowd. 

A group of servants begin to bring in pictures of water and mead.  Shelia sips at a glass of water as she watches Loki work his way through the room.  He makes his way towards the side of the hall as she loses sight of him in the crowd. 

Loki presses through the throngs of people until he is Thor’s side, “A word Brother?” He asks as he grips Thor’s arm.  Thor turns from the group of people that he was speaking to, “Of course. Forgive me,” he asks of his audience and steps aside to follow Loki.  “What vexes you brother?”

Loki glances around the room and steps closer to Thor, “Advise you? I can hardly advise you Thor.  I am a criminal awaiting sentencing, I can hardly be tasked with providing council to the throne of Asgard!” he hisses.

“Nonsense Loki! Odin was about to end your banishment.  I will simply make it official. I would suggest that you make the most of your time.  Being advisor to the throne is likely to keep you busy,” Thor smiles as he claps Loki on the back and turns him back towards the front of the banquet hall and Shelia.