Loki's Redemption

Chapter 42

Loki enters the throne room and approaches Thor, “it is done.”

Thor grasps his brothers shoulder, “I hope this brings you some peace Loki.”

Loki stares at his brother and then with a nod of his head he turns and strides out.  Jolnir lingers behind and waits patiently until Thor is ready to retire for the night, “A word, your highness.”

“Of course Jolnir. I understand your mission was successful,” Thor remarks.

“Our task is only partially complete. While it is true Farbaute has been slain, there is still the matter of succession.”

“Loki has been quite clear about his unwillingness to become King,” Thor says as he exits the throne room and heads for the dining hall.

“I am aware of his….. reluctance to take the throne, however without a strong leader, the realm will be thrust into chaos. I would ask that you speak with Loki again on our behalf.”

As they reach the dining hall, Thor stops, “I make no promises, I do see the value of having Loki on the throne, but ultimately he has to find his own path.”

“I understand, your highness. I informed Loki that he will need to testify before the council of elders to confirm Farbautes death within a days time,” Jolnir answers with a slight bow and walks away to gather his band of warriors in preparation for their return home.

Shelia pulls her parka closer around her body trying to keep warm in the ice palace. Despite his best arguments, Loki could not sway her to stay behind on Asgard while he fulfills his obligation with the council of elders.

The cold has little effect on him, but he is keenly aware of her discomfort, so he conjures a large throw made of thick fur and wraps it around her shoulders.  She smiles at him, relishing the additional warmth.  Rolling his eyes in response he smiles back. He doesn’t want to admit it, but he is glad to have her at his side.  Her presence adds a calming influence that he is sure to need during his time in the realm of the frost giants.

As he watches, 3 very aged front giants enter the council room and take their seats at a table in the front of the room.  Jolnir immediately steps forward, “I bring news of Farbautes death.”

Loki observes the stunned reactions of the council, “you know the custom for a claim of death in the royal line, have you proof? Or have you brought an attestant?”

“I present Loki Laufeyson. Who will affirm the death of Farbaute by his own hand.”

Loki cannot help but notice the ripple of surprise between the council members at his name.  He steps forward and waits to be addressed.

The middle elder addresses the god, “do you confirm the claim of death Laufeyson?”

“Yes I do so affirm,” Loki responds.

“It is the decision of the council to accept the claimants testimony and so declare the jeremiad open. The period of mourning will conclude at sunset tomorrow, at which time a successor will be named.  The council is adjourned.”  With that the council members file out leaving Loki, Jolnir and Sheila alone.

“That’s it?” Shelia questions. “I was expecting something more.”

Jolnir lifts a shoulder, “there is no need to complicate matters and the council will readily accept the word of Laufey's son. They are not fools.”

“So what happens now?” She inquires.

Once the jeremiad is concluded a successor will be named,” Jolnir looks to Loki as he says this.  The gods only response is to purse his lips.

“I’m sure Shelia is ready to retire, if you would show us to our room?” Loki requests.

“Yes of course. We have taken the liberty of preparing a special room in the palace designed specifically for your comfort,” he announces as he leads them through the corridors of the palace.  Jolnir stops when he reaches a large door carved with an image of the life tree Yggdrasil.  In the center of the door is an ornate crest with a large serpent twined around the body of a wolf.  Two blades reminiscent of the ones Loki carries flank either side.  The carving is intricate and the details are delicate and obviously done with precision and care.

Jolnir opens the door and indicates for the couple to enter. “You may explore the kingdom as you please.  If you require a guide you need only ask.  You will be summoned before sundown tomorrow.

“Thank you Jolnir,” Shelia answers noting Loki has said almost nothing since the conclusion of the council meeting.  The frost giant inclines his head slightly and quickly exits the room, closing the door behind himself.

Immediately Shelia wraps her arms around Loki and pulls him close.