arranged marriage gwyndoloki au pt. 3 (reception)

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 3:55 AM
Loki offers Gwyndolin his arm, once the jubilation settles enough for them to move out into the body of the throne room, and murmurs to her, another thread of magic wound in his words-- they are for Gwyndolin, only Gwyndolin-- "So... I don't think we've been introduced. My name is Loki." He smiles, wryly, at Gwyndolin. "How are you faring?"

He measures his paces slow as they move, not certain of how fast the snakes can move, and very aware that Gwyndolin has about ten yards of train and veil behind her.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 3:59 AM
Gwyndolin can't move very quickly on his snakes on a good day in more comfortable clothing, let alone under all this silk and lace, especially not when he's trying so hard to keep his snakes out of the way a little more out of sight, when they're much more comfortable spread out... He appreciates Loki's pace as he takes his groom's arm, holding it with one hand, his bouquet resting in his other arm's elbow, flowers glowing softly.

"... If I must be honest, my Lord, I am nervous." He says, almost a whisper. "I am in a foreign land when I have never before left the city-state in which I was born, wed to a man I have never before met. Forgive me if I... If I am not terribly comfortable."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 4:11 AM
He breathes softly, and says, "Well. I-- my mother has been quite chomping at the bit to meet you herself, and she is quite masterful at comfort. I am... perhaps... not so comforting a person, but..."

Loki hesitates, then presses a hand over hers, where it rests on his arm, and offers a faint smile. "I hope we can keep this marriage from being entirely miserable, at the least." A very hopeful message indeed! Then Loki is half-embraced by his boisterous brother, his attention pulled away from Gwyndolin, and Thor exclaiming that he's a lucky dog, to have a wife so beautiful! and so on, Loki politely not stabbing Thor no matter how he wants to. It would ruin his wedding cloak.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 4:20 AM
"... I would be pleased to meet her soon, if thou wouldst be so kind to introduce us." Gwyndolin says quietly, the corners of his lips twitching at the threats of a smile. "In truth, I am pleasantly surprise thou art so... That thou art showing so little offense to my form. I had worried..." He trails off there as Thor appears to congratulate his brother and compliment his bride, which causes Gwyndolin Much Blush, delicate fingers going to press to his lips in bashful fluster. Such a dainty thing Loki has married!

But he was worried Loki would up and abandon him at the altar, once he'd caught sight of the snakes. Or would be sour to him, or otherwise cruel. That Loki has already been kind enough is more of a comfort than Loki gives himself credit for. That Thor seems to not care at all is also comforting!

Speaking of brothers, it's time for Gwynfor to join the bro-party, putting a warm hand on Gwyndolin's shoulder, and clapping Loki on the back with the other (slightly more restrained than he would with, say, Ornstein or Artorias, but probably with more oomph than Loki may be ready for). The presence of his brother brings a real, if slight, smile to Gwyndolin's lips. This is definitely most comforting of all. "Loki! 'Tis good to see thee, only now I get to at last call thee my brother." Gwynfor says, all smiles. "I hope Gwyndolin is exceeding thy expectations..."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 4:31 AM
Loki stumbles a little under the impact, but his eyes sparkle as he smiles up at Gwynfor. "Your opinions seem to have been only slightly biased so far," he says, voice softly amused, "though we've hardly had time to get to know each other yet." Thor looks like he wants to ask when they met, but his attention is caught by another guest, and he wanders out of their conversation, leaving the three of them in a bubble of their own, at least for a few seconds. Loki glances at Gwyndolin, and admits, "I will say, though... Gwyndolin is at least half as cute as you. I might say even seven-eighths as cute, with eyes so beautiful to look at."

Does this increase his bride's fluster? And/or Gwyndio's fluster? Because Loki would like that, mischievous boy that he is.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 4:45 AM
Both Gwyndolin and Gwynfor's fluster increases!!! Gwynfor's tanned cheeks go a bit pink, more easily seen with his scarf having been folded before being worn, to cover his face slightly less. Gwyndolin's cheeks go quite pink as well, and his eyes widen, and he is probably a bit scandalized, with the rumors he'd heard of Loki's promiscuity blaring in his head, because Loki has absolutely just flirted with his brother. His brother and him at the same time! Now Gwyndolin is a bundle of nerves all over again, worried already for the future his marriage may hold, if it isn't ended immediately at the nuptial bed.

"Ah, well...! I think, perhaps, thou shouldst save thy compliments completely for thy wife..." If you know what Gwynfor means, to which Gwyndolin is very grateful. His beloved brother, always thinking of him and his thoughts and feelings, knowing Gwyndolin's fears. "Though I do not think anyone would disagree with thee about Gwyndolin's eyes, regardless of anything else they may have to say."

Gwyndolin's eyes really are truly beautiful! Anyways, Gwynfor claps Loki on the back again, at half power as last time with the way Loki had stumbled before, and he smiles once more. "Please, look after her for me. But I must leave the two of thee alone, my father needs me- try to get to know each other a little!" Aaaand Gwynfor is gone, tromping off to meet with Gwyn, looking a bit uncomfortable walking in the sandals that are probably worn less than once a millenia.

And now Loki and Gwyndolin are alone again, and Gwyndolin clears his throat after a moment. "I... suppose we are to be expected at the reception soon, my Lord." He says softly, eyes a little downcast away from his husband's face out of nervousness. "Perhaps I may meet the rest of thy family soon, and at least properly introduced to thy brother. ...He seems nice."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 3:41 PM
Loki laughs lightly, and says, "Ahhh, I am sure I will find many things to compliment about my wife, once I know her better." He bows slightly to his brother-in-law, and promises, "She will be well looked-after, Gwynfor, though I hope you'll come visit often all the same."

Then they are alone indeed, together in the mass of nobility, and Loki smiles faintly at Gwyndolin, a little amused by her pink cheeks, though the mention of his brother makes his brows twitch down. "Everyone does think so," he murmurs, noncommittally, and escorts Gwyndolin along at a slow pace, accepting congratulations with regal nods and mild smiles. The people who seem upset or disturbed by Gwyndolin's snake-feet seem mostly to just be hanging back, not raising a ruckus, and there do seem to be many genuinely heartfelt congratulations.

A familiar voice pipes up at Gwyndolin's elbow, the Lady Siffrid in purple and silver laying her fingertips on Gwyndolin's arm and saying, softly, "Hello, dear. You could have just told me who you were." She is a pretty enough woman, old enough for even her Asgardian face to have faint lines around her eyes but carrying herself with confidence.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 3:52 PM
It's simultaneously better and worse than what Gwyndolin expected. He expected either the Asgardians would be so disgusted and affronted by his repulsiveness as to cause a ruckus, if not his groom abandoning him on the spot. Or, that it would be no different than home, that most everyone would be disturbed, but too polite to say anything until they're out of earshot. It's largely the latter in reality, but... slightly better. There are more Asgardians than he expected that seem genuinely congratulatory and unbothered, or at least less bothered than his own people. It earns some soft, shy, but only half obligate smiles from the bride as he gives his gentle thanks to the well wishes his husband and he receive as they make their way steadily towards the reception.

What he definitely didn't expect, somehow, is the appearance of Lady Siffrid- of course she'd be here! And of course she'd recognize his voice. His cheeks flush gently, his fingertips going to his lips in embarrassment.

"Lady Siffrid..." He says, glancing warily between her and Loki, unsure about the beans being spilled that he was keeping his ear so to the ground about his husband. "I hope thou art understanding of my desire at the time we spoke to remain unknown..."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 4:01 PM
She smiles at him, and Loki raises his eyebrows at them, then politely turns to speak for a moment with one of his brother's friends about a minor war within the nine realms. "I understand, of course, but it was a surprise to hear your voice." Her fingers pat his arm, reassuring, though her eyes are troubled. "If you ever need anything... council, or a respite from the Asgardian royal family, or simply an ear willing to listen to you... I live within a few minute's walk of the palace, and am often visiting with Frigga." Come find her, her eyes say, and so does the brief, reassuring squeeze she gives Gwyndolin's arm. "Congratulations," she adds, and steps back into the crowd; Loki, as if on cue, detaches himself from Thor's friend and continues leading Gwyndolin along.

"A friend of yours?" he asks, then, before Gwyndolin can reply, says, "You don't have to tell me anything you don't wish to. Lady Siffrid is an excellent source of information, though; if you wish to visit her often, you'll learn much about the moods of the nobility in Asgard."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 4:10 PM
Lady Siffrid's kindness earns her a true, genuine smile from Gwyndolin, his youthful eyes crinkling slightly and cheeks rounding and pink. "My thanks, Lady Siffrid... I may take thee up on thy kind offer." He says softly, and means it. Though he can only fear that she wouldn't feel the same if she found out about... his much larger problematic secret. But how much of a problem that will be will depend on his husband, once they're finally alone tonight. "My apologies for the deception, but you have my gratitude."

And then Siffrid is gone and Loki is back, and Gwyndolin is smart enough to recognize his husband had been polite enough to discretely remove himself from his bride's conversation, and is silently thankful for it. "She was helpful to me during her stay in my home." He says simply, without offering too much information. "I look forward to speaking with her again- she has been nothing but understanding and kind, if a bit chatty."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 4:27 PM
Loki nods, agreeing, "Chatty indeed. I do like that about her, though." He bumps his shoulder lightly against Gwyndolin's, an unthinkingly friendly gesture, and suggests, "We should get to the reception; I'm starting to get hungry, and I'm sure a glass or two of wine wouldn't go wrong."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 4:33 PM
Gwyndolin makes a tiny little surprised noise- Loki is very friendly! He almost smiles at that, and nods, "Agreed. I would not mind a bite to eat..." He won't mention that he's hardly eaten anything at all in the last few days out of nerves destroying his already delicate appetite. Speaking of, "I do hope my appetite doth not abandon me."

To the reception! Just a little slowly, which Gwyndolin on his snakes trying their best to stay unobtrusive, and all this dress. But he'll get there with Loki's help! And what a party it must surely be, with delicious food prepared by the greatest chefs of both Asgard and Anor Londo, and beautiful music playing from a corner, the royal families mingling, people chatting and laughing, and some minor applause when the bride and groom finally enter...

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 4:39 PM
Loki smiles, and waves, and looks around for a moment-- ahhh, there--

Instead of steering Gwyndolin towards the main table, he leads her towards his mother, who looks up and sees them approaching, breaking out of her conversation to meet her son and her new child. "Welcome to Asgard," she says, softly, to Gwyndolin, and embraces them both for a brief moment, an arm around each of them; Loki makes a tiny embarrassed noise before his mother pulls back.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 4:43 PM
It takes Gwyndolin a moment to realize why they aren't going to the seats expected of them, and who the woman his groom is leading him to must be... He certainly doesn't expect the hug, and Loki isn't the only one to make a tiny noise at it, though Gwyndolin's is more of fluster.

"Ah, L-Lady Frigga, I must presume?" He asks, a smile on his lips and a nervous fluttering in his chest, unable to keep a stammer from his tongue. "'Tis an honor to meet thee, I hath already heard thy praises sung from multiple mouths, my Lady."

Loki's bride is so well-mannered!

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 4:51 PM
Frigga smiles at Gwyndolin, and says, "Loki, you didn't tell her who I was?"

Loki shrugs, cheeks showing pink even through his makeup, and says, "Surely the Lady Gwyndolin can guess that the most beautiful Asgardian in the room is my mother." He receives  a crinkle-eyed smile from his mother for the flattery, and a fond touch to his hair, before Frigga turns to Gwyndolin.

"You do not need to call me Lady, dear Gwyndolin; you are my daughter now, at least in name." She smiles, and falls in at Gwyndolin's side, walking with them as Loki steers them towards the table. "I hope that it will not be long before you are my daughter in heart, as well."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 4:56 PM
"Thou art terribly kind, Lady Frigga," He says, the 'lady' slipping naturally from his tongue. He just can't help it! Go ahead and poke him further about calling his literal husband and mother-in-law by titles. "And so hath thy son. Lord Loki hath already been so kind to me in our short time together thus far. I look forward to getting to know thy family better."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 5:05 PM
Frigga laughs, softly, and corrects him, "Just Frigga, dear. And I am sure my son would not mind you calling him only Loki." Loki makes an agreeing noise, squeezing Gwyndolin's hand gently. "It is good to hear he has been behaving himself for once, but if he ever gives you trouble, you may come to me and I'll set him right, dear Gwyndolin."

"Mother," Loki says, in mild objection, "we've only known each other half an hour; couldn't you save it for at least a day or two?"

She shrugs, and tells him, "If she is cruel to you, you can also come to me, my son, but you do not need the assurance of that. You already know I love you."

Loki turns pinker, clearly a little embarrassed by his mother being sappy at him, and shuts up for the rest of the way to the table, where he pulls out Gwyndolin's seat and mentions, "If you want to stretch your legs out, no one can see through the tablecloths." He doesn't know how much snake there is, but they do seem very contained by the dress, and surely it cannot be comfortable shuffling about so much.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 6:06 PM
Gwyndolin makes a little noise of embarrassment, caught in titling, his cheeks pinked. "Thou must understand, I am in a rather awkward position..." He starts, as Loki goes quiet. "Lor- Loki is my husband, and thou art my mother-in-law, which requires an inherent level of familiarity... Yet also thou art both complete strangers to me, and of a divine royal family equal to mine own- in any other instance, 'tis only proper for me to refer to thee as Lord Loki and Lady Frigga, and 'tis difficult to shake the habit of manners and the respect due to strangers of significance."

He sighs softly as he takes his seat which his groom so politely pulled out for him. He whispers thanks, and as he sits, he lets his snakes unwind themselves from their knots just slightly, to stretch out a bit under the table... though he restrains them enough to keep them only within his and Loki's assumed legroom. Enjoy having a number of snakes hanging out around your feet, Loki! They are scaly and docile and doing their best to keep quiet, though they let a hiss out on occasion... If Loki steals a peek, even, he may get to see that each snake is adorned with their own little veils, short enough not to interfere with their slithering, and secured by lacy ribbons tied around their necks. ADORABLE!

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 6:36 PM
Loki does not peek, mostly because he is seating his mother, too, right next to Gwyndolin, and then he is sitting on Gwyndolin's other side, placing his feet carefully so as not to trod on any snakes. He will not see the veils until tonight, most likely, when he will outright die from how cute it is.

The seating arrangements, unfortunately, separate Gwyndolin from her family-- there are two high tables, the one for the married couple and Loki's family and most honored guests, and a second one for the Gwynlings and the Knights thereof, Odin and Gwyn seated at far ends of each other and Thor and Gwynfor seated back to back, and Gwynevere seated at her father's hand for all to admire. It is a few minutes for everyone to find their places and settle in, and for the guests to settle in their seats, and Loki spends it rather quietly, looking out over his people, and the people of Gwyndolin's realm, and thinking to himself, so the lady Frigga fills the space, telling Gwyndolin, "I hope we shall not be strangers long, then, my dear. Tell me-- one of the few things I've heard of you is that you are skilled in sorcery. Is that true?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 6:43 PM
Gwyndolin already aches for the comforting presence of his siblings, but they sit so far away, and he will have to wait for another time to spend time with them. He was told they would be staying in Asgard a little while longer for political reasons, so perhaps Gwyndolin will have some time to get his hugs in before he has to stay in Asgard, alone among strangers, for far longer than he is comfortable. At least there are plans to bring Loki to Lordran soon during their honeymoon period...

"Oh, ah, yes, I am." He says in slight surprise, having not expected this turn of conversation, and having to wrack his brain for the little tidbits of things he knows about Lady Frigga, all from what Siffrid has told him. "I have heard thou art gifted on the sorcerous arts as well. 'Tis not a... highly well liked study in Anor Londo, but it is the passion of the Duke, a close friend of my Lord Father's, and he is allowed to learn and teach as he likes."

Gwyndolin smiles slightly at the happier memories of sorcery with Seath in his youth. "I was always meant to be gifted in sorcery, due to the aura of the moon I was born so strongly attuned with. I took to it like a fish to water, and I was allowed to be the Duke's student, though even he cannot touch upon some of the sorceries I developed for myself."

Congratulations, you found a subject he actually likes to talk about! Hope Loki is interested in listening in.

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 7:02 PM
Loki IS interested, but does not involve himself for now, just... watching his new wife, learning of her as his mother eagerly engages her in conversations of magic with her new daughter.

The Lady Frigga asks Gwyndolin to tell her of her studies and specialties, listens with complete attention to anything Gwyndolin says, and offers, partway through the conversation, "I know not how well the magics of our two worlds may mix, but if you are willing, dear daughter, I would love to be taught by you, and I would love to teach what I know. You could come with Loki when he studies with me, perhaps...?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 7:07 PM
Gwyndolin is the most talkative he's been all day, let alone in months, maybe even years, and it does not go unnoticed by his siblings a table away, even if the significance may be lost on Loki and Frigga. He chatters eagerly about the sorceries taught by the Duke, and the grand library that is the Duke's Archives, of Seath's breakthroughs in magic, and of his own gifts in sorceries of moonlight, and of the illusions that come naturally to him.

At the interjection, though, his cheeks go quite pink, his moonlit eyes widening. And he smiles so bashfully, looking down at the table, and gives a soft, shy laugh, saying in a rather emotional voice, "I... would be honored, Frigga. That sounds lovely, I would adore the opportunity, if thou wouldst be so kind..."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 7:23 PM
"My mother is desperate for new students," Loki says, softly, green eyes bright. "I'm sure it's only a matter of time before she tries to convince your Duke Seath that they need to start a school together."

"Hush, you," Frigga says, and reaches past Gwyndolin to pat her son's hand, "I'd have to see if I liked him first before we did that. Though if Gwyndolin admires him so, surely he is of excellent character, don't you think?"

Loki smiles, because of course his mother loves Gwyndolin already, but he cannot say that he doesn't like his wife already; the nerves and dread and buried distress that have nipped at his heart have quite abated, and Loki is sure that, while this may not be the kind of marriage he wanted, it is not a marriage he'll wholly regret going through with.

Finally, though, everyone seems seated, and the food is brought out-- and, importantly, the drinks are poured, Loki wetting his lips with the red wine as bowls of soup are laid before the diners, the pungently pleasant smell of rosemary and lamb wafting up from the creamy liquid. "Thank god for alcohol," he murmurs to Gwyndolin, eyes crinkling, "it'll make the ten or twelve years of toasts bearable."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 7:31 PM
Gwyndolin is all sorts of flushed and sheepishly pleased with the direction the conversation is going so far, smiling gently as Loki and his mother gently tease. "I would say that the Duke would hold interest, but he hath been a bit more reclusive of late, so absorbed in his studies, and teaching has been done by his acolytes instead of the Duke himself for many years now. Though, surely, he would love to hear and learn what thou wouldst have to share of Asgardian magic."

Ah, but food has arrived! Delicious soups and pleasant, well-aged wines and fine meads from Gwyn's finest cellars. Gwyndolin takes a couple small sips of the rosé he's been served, the pale pink of the liquid accented by his pearly lips. "I do not normally imbibe so much..." He confesses- getting drunk isn't exactly great for his health. A snake under the table gently slithers over one of Loki's boots, it's body cool compared to the man's warmth. "But my father hath been known for being rather verbose... And I am sure my brother will toast as well, though he does so love to speak simply, and with brevity."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 7:41 PM
"Worry not; my brother and his friends will make up for any brevity of Gwynfor's many times over," Loki says, with a soft laugh, and takes another sip of wine, unbothered by the snake. "And I am sure my father has something properly political he'll want to announce, as well, though he'll likely try to save it for last." Loki takes another sip of his wine, then sets it down and tastes the soup-- which is really very pleasant, he does love lamb so.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 7:48 PM
Gwyndolin sighs a bit tiredly... It seems Loki's bride also wishes the reception would be brief. "Not to mention, I have something I must do before the end, as well..." He starts, and takes a dainty sip of his soup- one of his favorites. "'Tis a surprise, but I hope thou wilt find it pleasant."

Gwyndolin eats a bit slowly, but by the time most are finishing their soup, Gwyn stands from his seat, calling for the attention of the guests. Time for the toasts to begin! And Gwyndolin wasn't lying when he called his father verbose- though Gwyn is a rather inspiring speaker, clever and powerful in his words, able to spin them in pleasing ways. He congratulates the married couple, touts Loki as a fine groom worthy of his beloved daughter, and the idea that he actually believes either of those things (that Loki is a real catch and that Gwyndolin is beloved and deserving of a wonderful groom) is quite believable, even to those who may have had some doubts, but possibly not to whom it matters most... as much as Gwyndolin would wish to believe it.

He also speaks of the wonderful alliance, how proud he is to join Asgard and Anor Londo hand in hand, to aid each other, to combine the advanced prowess of Asgard with the divine miracles of Anor Londo. Even Gwyndolin is done with his soup by the time his father finishes, and it's time for everyone to clink their glasses together and have a sip, before the next person decides to stand...

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 8:17 PM
Hopefully it isn't one toast per course; there's only five courses, and the next is already coming out, tiny flaky-crusted tarts stuffed with creamy cheese, herbs, and vegetables, brightened by a hint of citrus; they are accompanied by spears of asparagus wrapped in puffy pastry and tiny bowls of creamy, cold dip. (The tarts going to Gwyn and his Gwynlings are rather closer to pie size, but look to be of similar composition.)

"Fingerfood?" Loki murmurs to his mother, surprised, and she shrugs. "Thor wanted something he could eat quickly before his toast," she explains, and gestures to where Thor has already eaten half his food and is standing, to extoll the virtues of his brother, clever and charming and skilled, a stalwart companion who has always helped Thor out of trouble, even if he is also the one who got him into it.

There are giggles from the Asgardian guests, occasionally, as Thor cracks jokes and teases at Loki, who looks like he's taking it all in good humor, though Gwyndolin, beside him, may see that he's clutching his napkin white-knuckled under the table.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 8:31 PM
Gwyndolin looks a little rueful about the fingerfood, having to sigh and remove the glove from the hand without rings, so that he doesn't dirty the lace as he eats, picking apart the tart into bite-sized pieces and nibble them and the asparagus... At least he seems to find it tasty!

Meanwhile, Loki's brother is going on, both complimenting and teasing- and Gwyndolin feels that it must be entirely good-natured, genuine and loving, and even Gwyndolin gives a slight smile at some of the humerous things Thor says, and yet... He doesn't fail to notice the way Loki's outward behavior in reaction doesn't match the white-knuckled way he clutches at his napkin where only Gwyndolin can see... Gwyndolin does fail to notice the sympathetic way one of his own snakes curls gently around Loki's ankle, tongue flitting, hissing softly. Gwyndolin himself just frowns softly, but stays quiet- it's not his place to speak on it, he tells himself, despite knowing they are literally married. ... But maybe he could ask later, when they are alone. He can't help but worry about strain in a family he's going to be joining shortly.

When the groom's elder brother finishes, glasses clinking and sips of wine (and mead, let's be real, not everyone is as delicate of taste as Loki and Gwyndolin and surely Thor and Gwynfor and his first knight are bonding over a fondness of mead) being had again, it's time for his mirror to take his place, the bride's elder brother taking the opportunity to follow on Thor's heels, to use the foundation Thor laid out to extol next the virtues of his baby sister, how he still remembers clear as day the moment Gwyndolin was born, how small she was, how she fit into the palm of his hand, how she had been the most lovely and delicate thing he'd ever held, how he wanted to shout for all the world to hear that he had a baby sister who was perfect in every way, resisting only to not disturb the sweet thing in his hands- Gwyndolin, of course, can't help but look away in fluster, a hand against one of his pink cheeks, struggling to resist the urge to smile.

They both know, however, that that wasn't the complete reason why Gwynfor had resisted shouting his adoration of his newborn sibling. But that's a private matter.

He goes on about how happy he is to see Gwyndolin grown, so mature and smart and clever and lovely, that he's happy she's been matched with someone so complimentary to her (he's only met Loki once, but it's clear he already he feels so confident in saying so as a fact) and how eager he is to accept a brother into his family. His speech has a lot less jokes than Thor's and a lot more genuine compliments, his own cheeks rosy and grin unrelenting. His speech is also much shorter than Thor's, with so much heartfelt congratulation fitted in so few words. At last, he finishes, and drinks are had again, and Gwyndolin looks the most flustered anyone has probably ever seen him outside of his inner circle- then it's just the most flustered he's been since his youth.

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 8:44 PM
The snake around his ankle does gain Loki's attention, and distracts him, a little, until Thor sits down, and as Gwynfor speaks, he relaxes, a little, nibbling his asparagus and tarts, sipping his wine, and once he's done with his food, enjoying listening to Gwyndolin's handsome brother. (A shame, that he couldn't have married him... Oh well.) He murmurs to Gwyndolin, softly, "You're very cute when you blush so much, my wife. Do you blush because he flatters you, or because he's right that you're the most perfect and beautiful being in the world?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 8:44 PM
Gwyndolin outright squeaks, stammering for his words and flushing even pinker. Oh no!! Even though this is Literally his Wedding, he didn't expect to be so blatantly flirted with!! Covering his face with his hands in embarrassed fluster, Gwyndolin tells himself in his head that surely it's performative, that Loki is just saying what a husband should say to his blushing bride, that surely he can't mean it... Or even if he does, surely he won't mean it any longer the moment Gwyndolin tells him the Truth later this evening before they reach the nuptial bed...

"I-I..!!" He stammers, muffled behind his hands, before he manages to get a grip over himself. He takes his hands from his face, regaining control, taking a couple breaths. "I blush because my brother is a delightful flatterer, earnest as he is..."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 9:12 PM
Loki goes "Hmmmm," then murmurs, "I don't know, he does seem like an honest man to me... perhaps he is right, and you are just modest?"

Their current course is swept away, and replaced with a small, light salad, drizzled in dressing and bountiful with sweet and crunchy and tasty bits of vegetables, slices of bread spread with herbed butter served alongside it, and one of Thor's warrior friends stands to speak in fairly glowing terms of Loki's battle prowess. He doesn't seem quite as enthusiastic as the brothers, but he dutifully recounts Loki rescuing hides and using his wits to help bring Asgard victories. Loki doesn't really seem to be paying attention to this speaker.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 9:19 PM
Gwyndolin is absolutely modest, Loki is right on the money. Except he's also got horrendously low self esteem, but shhh. The salad arrives and takes Gwyndolin's attention, as well as another new speaker, though he can't help but notice that, despite the glowing praise, Loki seems disinterested. He can't help but wonder how much of the following toasting it going to be people being gracious and complimenting not out of genuine earnesty, but out of a desire to look good and pat themselves on the back for doing so.

Or maybe that's just his own experiences talking.

Still, Gwyndolin is politely attentive as he nibbles at his salad and bread, a dish that seems to be more to his palette and level of appetite, and drinks again when the toast prompts... How many more toasts must they sit through? He knows for sure Gwynevere is going to have a few words to say when she can squeeze in, and surely Odin must have a speech...

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 9:30 PM
It has seemed to be alternating; perhaps Gwynevere can speak when this fellow is done calling Loki brave and daring? (Loki can't help but snort, quietly, when he hears those descriptions from the throat of his brother's friend.) (Gwyndolin can probably guess that the toast is, in fact, there to make Loki and the speaker look good, even if the speaker doesn't believe what he's saying.)

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 9:37 PM
Gwyndolin guessed as much, yes. When Thor's friend is done patting himself on the back, though, Gwynevere takes the stage- though she does not stand, tall as she is, it would just be silly. But she takes her time to speak so sweetly and genuinely, in flowery but no less sincere words, full of as much love as Gwynfor had been. She blesses the couple, giving her prayer that their marriage will be fruitful and happy- which means something from a goddess of bounty and fertility and a grand patron of magnanimity. It's a slightly longer toast than Gwynfor's, if only because she takes her time with her flowery language, her voice as beautiful as the rest of her, and then the toast is done, and everyone drinks again. Goodness! Gwyndolin's head is feeling a little fuzzy... he decides to push his glass away and drink no more, despite further toasts. He has a performance to make once the toasts are over, after all.

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 9:52 PM
Right, Gwyndolin did say she had a surprise, didn't she? Loki murmurs, softly, "Only two more courses after this," and finds her hand to squeeze, gently, as he finishes off his salad, the Lady Sif standing to speak of Loki's education, wit, and charm, though even she doesn't sound especially convinced, and unsubtly looks at her hand a couple times. Loki ignores her toast, too, for the most part, sipping his wine as the main course finally arrives, steaks of fish flesh glazed and grilled to a flaky perfection that melts on the tongue, with small squash on the side halved, hasslebacked, and cooked so tender that they could be eaten with a spoon, a sweet ginger-sugar glaze making them almost candy-sweet.

"Oh," says Loki, in quiet delight, "I love these..."

Frigga looks distinctly smug, though she murmurs to Gwyndolin, "I did not know what dishes you favored, dear daughter, or I would have added them to the menu as well. But you should let me know, for tomorrow's dinner..."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 9:58 PM
Gwyndolin may have almost been fooled by the toast from Thor's other friend, if not for Loki's lackluster reaction, but this, certainly, he notices is entirely for show. It's not even rehearsed! How utterly lazy, and mildly insulting, really. Gwyndolin finds himself insulted on his groom's behalf, as well as insulted for himself as well- really, if you couldn't even fake it well, you could have just stayed sitting down and quiet, instead of taking up time on his wedding day, arranged as it is!

But the memory of Loki having taken his hand to assure him, so intimate and sweet a gesture, sticks with him, and makes him feel oddly uneasy.

Gwyndolin lets his attention be stolen by the current course of dinner, though he can feel himself getting rather full already, maybe only a couple bites- "Oh... It looks quite delicious, actually." He says softly, gladly taking a few bites of the fish- delicious!- before going for a nibble of the squash with a spoon... Mmh! "I think I must concur with my groom, I would dearly love to have this again, when I am not already being stuffed so full with a dinner of so many courses."

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 10:10 PM
The Lady Sif finishes her toast in record time, and sits back down with Thor and his warriors, Thor looking entirely pleased with her performance and clapping her on the shoulder in appreciation. Loki just barely wets his lips with his wine, smiling at Sif rather blandly, and replies to Gwyndolin, "We can have ginger squash as often as you like, in my opinion. Perhaps every meal? What do you think, Mother?"

Frigga laughs, softly, and says, "You'd eat us out of squash in a week if we did that, dear Loki. But if Gwyndolin likes it, it can certainly be made more often..."

If no one else is standing for toasts, their dinner will likely be left to continue without disruption until the dessert course, when Odin will make his speech.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 10:17 PM
Gwyndolin smiles gently at both Loki and Frigga, thoroughly ignoring Lady Sif- he has already decided to refuse to deign acknowledgment onto such an empty, lackluster performance. And this is why Gwyndolin is known back home as being rather sullen and brooding, the few times he appears. At least Loki and his mother are doing their part to combat the sour taste left in his mouth.

"Perhaps not every night, even my palette would care for some measure of variety, and squash is such a heavy food... But often enough, I would adore." He says, and then smiles... a bit sadly, if genuinely. He's already making so many plans with these nice people- with Loki and Frigga and Siffrid. It's just a shame, he realizes, that surely most of these plans will go down the drain when he reveals the truth to his groom later tonight.

No more toasts are had, at least, and they can proceed through the rest of dinner until the desert course, although Gwyn is looking eager about something, the musicians are whispering amongst themselves, and a few Anor Londo servants have carried something large-ish and covered by a pretty sheet, only to set it off to the side out of the way, for now. It looks like Gwyn has a couple things planned for after dinner, before the reception ends- but Odin may speak first.

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 10:43 PM
Frigga smiles, and promises, "We will make sure you get to enjoy it often, dear daughter," before returning to her own plate. Loki is diverted by his own food, though his gaze sometimes flickers to his father, to the preparations, to his bride, green eyes quick and interested even with (at this point) a glass and a half of wine in his belly.

Then, finally, it is time for dessert, though Loki looks rather longingly after his plate, like he might have licked it clean if he hadn't had an audience of thousands. As the servants replace the entree with tiny deserts, each plate holding a few lemon mousse-filled brandy snaps adorned with candied violets, Odin rises to his feet, raising his cup to his people.

"On this day," he says, face serious, "we have joined our two worlds together, entered into a contract with each other that we shall never break."

Loki breathes out, and murmurs to Gwyndolin, "That means I have to stick this out, whether we like it or not." He's smiling, but it's wry, self-deprecating, and not wholly pleased that his father opened with that, though his attention is finally rapt, eyes on his father, the Allfather, goes on at length about the alliance this will start, the union of their peoples, the blessing this will be for all of them and the knowledge and power they can share to each become stronger, both as royal families and as kingdoms.

At one point, he says he is proud of his son, though, and Loki's hand unthinkingly finds Gwyndolin's, holds it as his heart devours the snippet of praise like a belly starving for food, and aches that it was awoken for only a crumb.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 11:09 PM
"If it is of any consolation, my groom, 'tis the same for me." Gwyndolin murmurs with a bit of resigned bitterness to his tone. But only a bit. It's mostly masked by sadness and worry. But then Loki's attention is given fully to Odin, and Gwyndolin's is as well, though he has at least one brandy snap as he listens...

The speech is little different than Gwyn's, albeit with more finality. Yet, when Odin speaks specifically of his son, Gwyndolin hadn't expected Loki's hand to find his again, and his eyes are taken from Odin's face to his husband's, a small frown of concern forming on his face, and his snakes coiling more closely to Loki's feet and ankles without their master's notice... His heart flutters with empathy, and he feels uncomfortable when he realizes he understands what Loki may be feeling. He decides not to think further about it, and tears his eyes back to the King of Asgard.

When Odin's speech is finished, and desserts are about finished, Gwyn rises to his feet again, fully taking his lastborn's attention, and announces they have a special bit of entertainment for the tail end of dinner, before the bride and groom may have their first dance, and then they can all dance and mingle for the rest of the evening until it's time to retire. But first, before even that, he has something else-

The servants from before bring the strange sheet-covered object forward towards where the bride and groom sit, and Gwyn announces, "On behalf of my dear friend, the Paledrake Duke Seath, I am pleased to present this bridal gift to my beloved little Gwyndolin." The sheet is pulled from the object, revealing the contents, likely with a few delighted gasps from the nearby guests, and most certainly one from Gwyndolin, his fingertips going to his lips and his eyes going wide- a beautiful, intricately crafted gold and crystal birdcage, sitting on three supporting legs, and within it, a half dozen jumbo-sized butterflies, each with wings the size of a bird's, and with strange, decidedly inorganic bodies with haloed backs and stiff, twined antennae, and tasseled bodies. The wings themselves are like overexaggerated luna moths', shimmering blue-green with long swallowtails, emitting a gentle glow and shedding glittering particles as they flutter.

Gwyndolin looks absolutely, one hundred percent delighted with the gift, and his father smiles- a real one, too, with what love he does have for the child he brought into the world and raised. "He sends his well-wishes to the happy couple, and many scrolls and books to be delivered, to keep his favored pupil's mind sharp. He also sends his words to Gwyndolin;" He pulls out a scroll, which he unravels to read to Gwyndolin, "'As I had made the original moonlight butterfly to delight thee so very long ago, I have crafted especially for thee these unique miniature editions only for thee, to keep thee company in a foreign land and remind thee of home, and to remind thee to stay true to thineself'."

Wetness gathers in Gwyndolin's eyes as he can't quite help it, and he politely looks down, to dab at the corners of his eyes with a napkin. There was more said in those words than what was actually written, a secret message between himself and Seath, and it touches his heart, and gives him a bit more strength than he had a few minutes ago. "... Please tell the Duke he has my deepest gratitude, father." He says, softly, and Gwyn nods, putting the scroll away, and offering Gwyndolin a hand, which his child takes and climbs to his feet, to be escorted away from his groom, and to a more open space where he can be more easily seen, his snakes having once again wound themselves as best they can while still being useful under his skirts.

Looks like they're going to do something in a moment but lets let everyone react to those pretty magical butterflies first.

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 11:21 PM
Loki is not often dazzled, but-- ohhh, they DO do aesthetics beautifully in Anor Londo, don't they? He can hardly wait to see the gift up close, and he oohs, softly, in unintentional unison with his mother-- but then Gwyndolin is rising, and Loki realizes how closely wound their legs were now that his feet are free. Oh, that was pleasant, wasn't it?

Loki watches his father-in-law and his bride move to the center of attention, sending a quizzical glance to his mother, who shrugs slightly. She was not kept in the loop either, but (and she gives her son a silent encouraging smile) she's willing to see what happens.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 11:33 PM
What happens is, once Gwyndolin and his father are front and center of attention, and the musicians are at the ready to play at any moment, Gwyn holds his daughter's hands and looks somewhat proudly at her, to which Gwyndolin soaks it in and feels that everything done today and everything that may follow has been absolutely worth it. And then Gwyn says to the crowd, "My daughter is gifted with many talents, among them a truly divine singing voice. She wishes to gift her husband, her new family, and our honored guests an aria, to signify all our happiness today."

Gwyndolin is looking pretty pleased still about that sliver of pride from his father, but all the same, he still looks a bit more like this was something asked of him than something he volunteered for. Only a bit. And then Gwyn backs away, and Gwyndolin folds his hands elegantly over the center of his chest, and he begins to sing, the minstrels providing accompaniment...

Gwyn wasn't lying when he called Gwyndolin's voice divine; a gorgeous, ethereal soprano, with long, pleasantly lilting notes and delicately placed, unobtrusive vibrato. But despite Gwyn having said it was an aria of joy, and it is quite beautiful, there's a somehow almost sorrowful note to Gwyndolin's song, as if he's never sang a truly happy note in his life, like his voice can only produce somber sounds, no matter how he may try to offset it with cheerier melodies. Not to mention, the vibrato of his voice is just a twinge more than Gwyndolin would normally give to his voice, done out of nerves, just enough that his family may notice, but perhaps none else, unless he had some secret huge fan of his singing in the room. His eyes are shut as he sings, but his lashes shimmer gently.

And then his song is through, and his father and brother are the first to clap as Gwyndolin reopens his eyes to look upon his audience, and smile at his family, only for his eyes, unbidden, to seek out a pair of vivid greens...

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 11:39 PM
Loki does not fall in love with women as a rule, but-- oh--

His eyes grow wet as Gwyndolin sings, hand curled at his mouth as he leans against the table, enraptured. He could, maybe, fall in love with a voice like that, despite belonging to a woman; he could certainly cry from the beauty of it, at least after a couple glasses of wine, his skin turning to goosepimples as Gwyndolin's voice reaches notes high and pure and perfect to the point of pain.

There's a small tear on his cheek when Gwyndolin finishes singing, and he dashes it away, quickly, before rising to his feet and also applauding his wife, ignoring the look his mother gives him (curious and worried and fond and understanding all at once) and meeting Gwyndolin's eyes when they find his, offering her a tiny smile even as his eyes glisten with tears.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 11:53 PM
The minstrels begin to play again halfway through the applause of the audience, something romantic sounding, beautiful yet never quite as lovely as Gwyndolin's song, instruments never able to measure to such a voice. Gwyndolin returns Loki's little smile with one of his own, his own eyes shining with a hint of wet, from fear and pride and trepidation and even unexpected hope all at once.

As the music rises, Gwyndolin stays where he is, only to extend a lace-gloved hand bearing his rings towards his husband, palm down, awaiting that of his groom's to take it- it seems it's time for the bride and groom to have the first dance!

itsAlana - Yesterday at 12:35 AM
Loki comes around the table, on his brother's side, getting a handclasp from Thor and a murmur from his brother that she really is beautiful-- Loki gives him a quelling look, and Thor laughs it off, letting his brother go to his bride and take her hand, bending over it to give it an elegant kiss. "... How well can you dance?" he asks, quietly, "I would not like to shuffle you off your feet by accident."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 12:42 AM
Gwyndolin smiles just a bit when Loki kisses his hand, though the fellow god may notice his bride's fingers are trembling. And, up close, it's easier to see the shimmer of wet in his eyes. "I know *how* to dance as well as base expected of a princess." He says, just a bit warily. "But if thou wouldst take it slowly, it would be greatly appreciated..."

Slow, romantic, close dancing it is! Poor thing can only dance slowly, but it's well enough, as that's the sort of first dance expected of the bride and groom anyways, judging by the sweet, gentle melody rising from the minstrel's instruments. There is, of course, a wide area open for dancing close by, should Loki like to dance his wife there.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 12:47 AM
He leads his wife slowly to the dance floor, and keeps their hands clasped, carefully laying his other hand on her hip and guiding her to sway with him, careful not to step on any snakes or trains as they dance together for the spectators. "Your voice is as beautiful as your eyes," he murmurs to Gwyndolin, once they're close, a little smile crinkling his own eyes, "and I want you to know that I only cried because I've had wine tonight. Normally, I'm very tough. I probably haven't cried in two thousand years." His voice is softly joking, and his thumb rubs Gwyndolin's hand through the lace.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 12:54 AM
Speaking of Gwyndolin's eyes... as he moves close to Loki, to place his other hand on the man's shoulder, their torsos nearly chest to chest, it's very clear from this level of closeness that there's tears clinging again to Gwyndolin's lashes, more than there were when Loki had first lifted the veil from his bride's face. "My thanks..." He murmurs, blushing quite a bit- to know that he brought someone, even a tipsy someone, to tears by his voice alone... There are maybe two and a half things about himself that he's proud of, and his ability to sing is one of them, so this truly feels like a great compliment. "I will take thy word for it, husband, that thou art indeed tough and not easily brought to tears."

There's just a touch of sarcasm in his voice, and the slight smile he sends to Loki is just a bit wry! Ohhh, Loki's bride *can* get a little bit sassy! He sways with Loki on the dance floor, and wonders is the wine must be affecting him, too, for him to feel himself almost growing comfortable, despite the circumstances, dancing with this stranger that brings a strange, mysterious pull to his chest, strings of empathy he doesn't, and isn't sure he wants to, understand... "Still... I am glad it pleased thee. I suppose, if it would make my husband happy, I would be happy to sing for thee on occasion."

Again, making plans and offers he isn't sure will be able to be kept by morning...

itsAlana - Yesterday at 1:02 AM
Loki laughs, softly, green eyes still wet but crinkled in sudden delight as Gwyndolin sasses back, and says, "What unbridled trust in my words you have! Don't worry, that ought to pass, dear wife." Loki, apparently, likes it when people play along with him. "And if you would give me so great a gift, I'll make sure to appreciate it fully." He gently spins them in a circle, to catch his mother's eye over Gwyndolin's shoulder, and give her a smile in passing-- Loki's a momma's boy, and wants her to know things are going well, as she stands with Odin, ready to come dance with their people once Gwyndolin and Loki have finished their first dance turn around the room.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 1:11 AM
"If I am honest," Gwyndolin begins steadily as Loki turns them about, dropping the sassiness for the moment, even if Loki clearly enjoyed it, "I find myself in a strange position. There is a part of me that wishes to trust thee, that feels some strange camaraderie with thee, despite my other half, my better judgement, telling me to be wary. Thy reputation exceeds thee, Loki, and I have heard a fair few things I did not like. Thou art a stranger to me, one who holds a frightening power over my fate. And yet..."

He sighs softly, lashes fluttering a bit, looking troubled. "... There is something important I must tell thee tonight, my husband. Something that thou wilt likely abhor. I can only hope it doth not jeopardize our marriage and alliance... and that thou art not too cross with me." He's genuinely afraid of getting hurt when he reveals that he's a man.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 1:18 AM
Loki's smile turns wry as Gwyndolin talks of his reputation, then drops away as Gwyndolin tells him that there is something dire on the horizon. "... I don't know what rumors you have heard, that make you think I am easily shocked, but they must surely be the inaccurate ones," he says, though there's concern in his eyes from how certain Gwyndolin is that it will upset him. "I... have not an inkling of what it is you'll be telling me, though."

He glances about, then leans down and whispers, voice conspiratorial, "Is it about the snakes? Because I actually already noticed them, I'm afraid. It simply didn't seem polite to mention something so charming where my mother could hear."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 1:25 AM
"'Tis not the rumors that lend me my fears." He murmurs, eyes turning down a bit, "But my own experiences in life that tell me so."

Still, the comments about his snakes make his cheeks go a little pink, and he turns his face away bashfully. "It is not the snakes! I already know thou hast noticed- everyone has. And perhaps 'tis the wine making thee forget how kindly thou hath offered to let me give them space under the table." That earns Loki a smile as Gwyndolin looks back at him. "In truth, I had certainly not expected them to be so well received by thee as they already are, repulsive as most find them. I think that is in part why I am tempted to trust thee, though my fears struggle to leave me..."

Would Loki mind if... If Gwyndolin moves just a tad closer, to lay his head down on his husband's shoulder, seeming just a bit weary, tired and anxious and frightened, a slight tremble to his frame. The trembling and weariness can only be noticed by Loki, and to all the rest, would appear merely as an act of adorable newlywed intimacy, and may earn a couple soft, charmed noises from the guests. "... I wish I could give even a hint of the truth to thee, before telling thee later. Only that there is a grave secret about me... one only my family knows. One I could not hide from a husband. But I cannot tell thee now. When we are alone, please..."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 1:34 AM
Loki breathes a soft noise, and says, "Ah, I did forget. How could I forget so easily? It was really rather nice, having them wind around my ankles as we ate. I do so love snakes." He chuckles, softly, and does not mind at all that Gwyndolin is laying her head on him. "I will wait until we are alone to press you for more, but... mmmn..." His fingers are gentle as he smoothes them down his wife's back, to try and calm her anxious tremble. "... Ah, never mind for now, Gwyndolin. It can wait for later." He glances around at their captive audience, and puts on a smile for them all, tipping his head to put his cheek on her silken hair. "Once we are done with the first dance, would you like to stay on the floor, or go find someplace to rest and digest? I'm sure it's been an even longer day for you than for me."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 1:39 AM
"Snakes are not terribly popular where I come from." He says, an understatement. "I think my brother is the only one with a fondness for them..."

He takes comfort in the way Loki pets his back, sighing gently and closing his eyes. It's rather nice, actually, especially feeling the warmth of Loki's cheek against his hair. "... Thou art not wrong to assume I am dreadfully tired," He murmurs, swaying with his husband as they continue to dance. "But... I am rather enjoying this more than I'd hoped. Would it be... too much for me to ask thee to allow me this a bit longer, another dance?"

He opens his eyes again, to look up at Loki from his place on the man's shoulder, his cheeks growing a bit pink. "It is like to a fantasy I hardly even dared to dream since I was small... To dance with a husband, a handsome prince who marries me like in a story. I know 'tis childish, but... May I live this fantasy just a bit longer...?"

itsAlana - Yesterday at 1:44 AM
Loki has an Emotion and that emotion bothers him, a flicker of pain for lost childhood dreams crossing his face before it softens to wistfulness. "Of course," he murmurs, and strokes Gwyndolin's back again. "Hold on to the dream as long as you want to, Gwyndolin." He is, at least, a handsome enough prince for his wife to enjoy dancing with, even if he's got no other qualities that dreams are made of.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 1:53 AM
Gwyndolin will enjoy this, then, pour himself into it, let himself imagine that he is loved and adored and married for his beauty and charm and wit, and not because they are the unfavored children of their powerful fathers, items in a political agreement, the spares to be paired as pawns. That he's not a repulsive being of snakes and lies, that his very existence antithesis to everything his father symbolizes- that he could not be the son his father wanted, nor be an adequate daughter.

His eyes are closed once more, sighing gently with a soft smile on his face as he enjoys the rest of their dance quietly, pretending they're a happy couple in the happily ever after of one of his childhood stories. But finally, the music draws to an end for the first dance, and he sighs and lifts his head to smile sweetly at Loki, to the gentle applause of the guests, before they come to join the happy couple on the dance floor and mingle amongst themselves.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 2:04 AM
Loki's lips twitch back, and he murmurs, as other dancers come out to the floor, "Whatever it is you'll be telling me, I... do have to say, this is going much better than I expected. All of this." He lets go of Gwyndolin's hand, to touch his wife under the chin, and says, "I think, perhaps, we can be friends, which is almost more than I hoped for."

Wouldn't it be nice, to have a friend? True, he had to go very, very far afield to find one, but--

"... One more dance?" he says, hand falling to find hers again, a soft look in his eyes.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 2:07 AM
Gwyndolin blushes more deeply at the touch under the chin, and then... and then shivers at the suggestion that they could be friends. "I only hope that thou wilt feel the same after tonight," He whispers, trembling slightly, because that really does sound truly nice, to have a friend. "For it sounds quite lovely."

He lets Loki take his hand again, still smiling, and nods eagerly. The music playing now is for a slightly more energetic kind of dancing, but surely, the guests won't mind if the bride and groom have another slow dance despite the dissonance with the music. "One more, please..."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 2:12 AM
They can just dance in half-time, one step to every two beats, as Loki murmurs, "Don't worry about after tonight, then. We can be friends for now, at least, before you tell me whatever secret it is that will drive me away like a rabbit from a wolf." He sounds teasing, and speculates, wildly, "You know, when you tell me that actually, your favorite vegetable is cabbage, and I realize I could never be married to a woman with such awful taste. That terrible secret."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 2:15 AM
That actually brings a giggle to Gwyndolins lips!! GOLLY!!! Oh no, help, Loki is charming him... Lady Siffrid was right!! "Oh, do not worry, my dreadful secret at least is not that." He says, with a soft chuckle as he sways with Loki, his snakes still doing their best to stay out of they way while moving him steadily about the dance floor. "I do quite like salads, though. I hope that is not a problem."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 2:19 AM
Loki says, with mock-seriousness, "I suppose I can let a love of salads slide, for the sake of our worlds' union-- as long as your secret isn't that, when you sleep, you snore like a bear with a cold and wrap yourself with every blanket on the bed, to leave your poor, innocent husband shivering and unable to sleep." He tsks his tongue gently, and murmurs, "How awful that would be! Surely the second-worst trait a wife could have, if the third-worst is loving cabbage." Please, Gwyndolin, ask him what the first-worst trait is that a wife could have!

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 2:22 AM
"Well! I do find myself chilly so often, and may need the blankets to stay warm, but I will try my hardest not to steal too much from thee, my husband." He says, teasing gently, "But I am told I sleep quite quietly- almost worriedly so, according to my siblings."

Ahhh, but what Loki said caught his attention, and he hums thoughtfully a moment... "But may I ask... If those are only the second and third worst traits a wife could have, what might be the first?"

itsAlana - Yesterday at 2:24 AM
"Screaming when she sees a snake," Loki says, very decisively. "I could never marry a woman who screamed at snakes. But I suspect that, at least, could not be your secret, or else this would have been a much, much noisier wedding!" He laughs, eyes sparkling with good humor, and squeezes her hand in his.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 2:27 AM
Gwyndolin giggles again! Wow! And he squeezes Loki's hand back, his cheeks rosy, and a soft hiss coming from below, from under his skirts. "No, that would most certainly not be a problem with me, my husband." He says, mirth in his voice, "Otherwise I would have to be screaming at all times, would I not?"

He's gonna lay his head on Loki's shoulder again, actually, if that's okay, still rosy cheeked and smiling. He sighs a bit, lashes fluttering slightly, and says, "My thanks, for indulging me like this."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 2:36 AM
"That, or you would have to wander around blindfolded! And then I wouldn't be able to see your pretty eyes. It would truly be a tragedy all 'round." His voice is warm, carrying his smile, even if Gwyndolin cannot see it resting on Loki's shoulder. "Truly, it's for the best that you don't have any of the three worst traits I can think of. And with those off the table, I can't think of another thing that would be too dire to bear." He sighs, heavily, and bemoans in dramatic tones, "I suppose I'll just have to keep on liking you, and hoping we'll be friends. There's no other choice in my future."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 2:41 AM
"I would like that..." He says, his voice almost a whisper, and he means it. He really would. A friend. Someone he feels some strange empathy towards, someone who, it seems, shares some similar interests, someone with a wonderful mother that seems so eager to fill a void in Gwyndolin's life that he didn't even know he had, someone who will talk to him and spend time to him, and not merely out of the bias of being family...

Speaking of family, a warm hand suddenly lands on Loki's empty shoulder, and Gwyndolin looks up in surprise- it's Gwyn! "Father!"

"Might I cut in?" Gwyn asks, at least an entire foot and a half taller than Loki, but not even close to as huge as his eldest. "'Tis not every day a man's daughter is wed, and the father of the bride would like to share a dance with her." Gwyndolin's lower lip practically quivers at that, eyes rather literally sparkling, eager for this unexpected affectionate gesture.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 2:46 AM
Loki looks up at his father-in-law, and smiles, as charmingly as he can, almost out of reflex. "Of course, Lord Gwyn," he says, stepping back from Gwyndolin and offering her hand up to her father. "Shall I wait for you on the edge of the dancefloor, Gwyndolin?" he asks her, softly, as he gives her up.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 2:57 AM
"Ah- If thou wouldst?" Gwyndolin asks, just a bit distracted because aaa papa is paying attention to him on his big day and he feels really special right now ;A;. And with that, Gwyndolin's hands are in his father's, and they dance and murmur amongst each other, to talk of what's to come, and, maybe, Gwyn will reminisce about those (rare) affectionate childhood memories of when Gwyndolin was little, and would curl his little snakes about his father's ankles as Gwyn would move their feet together, bent over double to hold his tiny child's hands as they danced...

Gwyn does love Gwyndolin. He doesn't love Gwyndolin enough, it's true. But there is love there, and when they finish, he presses a kiss to his youngest child's forehead, and tells Gwyndolin he's so proud. And then he leaves, off to find Odin again, to talk business... But before Loki can have his bride back, Gwyndolin is claimed again, this time by his jubilant elder brother, who looks so happy, and lifts his comparatively tiny sibling up to sit in his arms and 'dance' with him, the train of his skirts and veils and a few snakes dangling down, while Gwynfor gushes about how well this is going and how happy he is for Gwyndolin that he's getting along with his husband...!

Gwyndolin is practically overwhelmed with delight from all the affection both his father and brother show him, not to mention how sweet Loki had been before. But finally, Gwynfor must leave, signaled by his golden knight coming to tap his shoulder and murmur that Gwyn is seeking them. He sighs, and sets his little brother down, helps him smooth out his dress, and then gives Gwyndolin one last, encouraging smile before he and Ornstein leave to join Gwyn. Looks like they're already gearing up for the post-reception meeting, though the reception itself is likely to carry on a while longer.

Gwyndolin, at least, is finally free, and the crowd politely parts to allow him to slither his way to his husband at the edge of the dancefloor, his cheeks pink and looking a bit out of breath from all the excitement.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 3:03 AM
Loki has buried his envy at seeing Gwyndolin so doted upon, so that when Gwyndolin comes to find him, Loki can offer his hands with only a little wistfulness in his smile. When was the last time his father kissed his brow, or his brother swept him into a hug so firm? (Okay, well, the latter was probably within the last few days, but it had been poisoned by Thor's thoughtlessness and rashness. It wasn't the same as when they were children or adolescents. It wasn't the same as the joyful embrace Gwyndolin had shared with Gwynfor.)

"Hello again, Gwyndolin," he says, voice soft, head a little tilted. "What shall we do now?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 3:05 AM
If it comforts Loki at all, from Gwyndolin's father, that was a rare occurrance... wait, that's not comforting to anyone at all!!

"I think I would like to have a sit," He says, just a bit breathless, "I would like to catch my breath and, perhaps, rest my legs... I have been doing an awful lot of standing and moving and wearing uncomfortable clothing today."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 3:10 AM
"The pains we go through to look beautiful!" Loki says, with a soft laugh, and admits, "I think these boots will give me blisters if I take another turn around the dance floor. Come on, then, dear wife, let's go find someplace to sit." It's only a little ways to the nearest table, and Loki settles Gwyndolin down in some dancer's seat, then (with an impish smile and a glance around to make sure no one is watching) steals one of their abandoned brandy snaps and sits beside Gwyndolin, eating the sweet without a hint of remorse.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 3:11 AM
Gwyndolin happily sits his butt down with a sigh of relief- a few of his snakes seemingly sigh, too, if that sudden choir of hisses is anything to go by! But now, it's time for Gwyndolin to look a little jealously at Loki, because he only ate one of his own brandy snaps and is having regrets because his stomach has decided there's extra room for sweets suddenly.

But he won't say anything. Just look slightly longingly.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 3:15 AM
Loki sees the longing look, and smiles, lopsided, behind his fingertips as he chews, before scanning the table-- aha, another plate, this one with three brandy snaps abandoned on it!

He raises a finger, and goes to steal the plate, sitting next to Gwyndolin and offering them to his wife. Here, they can both steal other people's deserts. It's perhaps not the most decorous thing Loki's ever done, but it's their wedding party; who could begrudge them?

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 3:19 AM
Gwyndolin is letting himself be a bit selfish- it IS *their* wedding, let them steal their guests' abandoned deserts! Gwyndolin gives a delighted hum of thanks and claims a brandy snap to nibble and eat all daintily, because Loki has apparently wound up with the most prim and dainty wife in all the worlds.

"I do hope this reception doth not drag on too long," He says, clearly a bit tired, and eager to get the worst part of the night over with, as much as he's terrified. But, somehow, Loki just keeps his fears from completely overtaking him... "I fear my lord father may burst should he wait much longer to have his meeting with thine, and I myself am already quite exhausted..."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 3:23 AM
Loki looked over the crowd, and murmurs, "If you expect to wait for the partying to be over, you'll be waiting a long time on the Asgardians; drinking until you pass out is a common hobby of the warriors. But I think no one would mind if we left soon." Casually, he leans his shoulder against his wife's, and admits, "I am absolutely burning inside with curiosity about your secret, so I wouldn't mind learning it sooner rather than later, either."

His smile says that he doesn't think there's any way he'll regret knowing, and, for perhaps the first time in his life, hubris won't bite his ass for it.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 3:26 AM
Gwyndolin makes a small noise, still unsure and uneasy, and he frowns at Loki, and then out at the crowd. "... I feel like I would prefer to get it over with, and whatever ramifications it may have, sooner rather than later..." He notices, idly, that the butterfly cage has since been removed, likely relocated to the room he will be sharing with Loki for the near future. "Maybe we should..."

Unless anything else could happen first, like Thor trying to be social and very into his brother's wife.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 3:42 AM
Oh, don't worry, that will happen-- Loki suggests, "We can sit a moment longer all the same, if you need some more time to recover--" when Thor sweeps up, golden and booming even when he's not saying anything, and embraces his beloved brother in rather drunken jubilation.

"Loki!" he booms, goldenly, "How can you be sitting on the edge of your own party! You haven't even introduced your beautiful wife to me yet!" He leans over Loki, who looks immediately exhausted, and claims Gwyndolin's hand, to kiss the backs of her fingers, more firmly and more lingeringly than Loki had kissed his bride's lips. "Well met, fair Gwyndolin," he says, with a booming golden smile, still holding her hand, blue eyes as bright as the sky and mead on his breath. "You truly are a vision of beauty to behold! A shame, that my father did not wish to marry me off instead of my little brother, eh?"

"Yes, truly, a shame," Loki says, as dry as a desert, resentment in his eyes and a smile on his lips.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 3:46 AM
Gwyndolin is nodding, agreeing to sit out a bit longer, rest his weary snakes, so tired from having to carry him and his heavy dress so long- only for Thor to boom onto the scene, his presence so impactful. Gwyndolin is overwhelmed almost immediately, watching Thor hug his immediately exasperated brother, and even more when called beautiful, and further when his hand is kissed so firmly and lingeringly and o h. Oh. Oh no, oh dear.

Thor is maybe having his brother's wife's eyes sparkling gently at him, despite the alcohol in his breath and Gwyndolin knowing that surely his judgement is clouded. He almost doesn't notice the tone in Loki's voice- but only almost, the sparkling in his eyes ceasing in time to glance at his husband- does Thor not notice the clear dryness in his brother's tone, or is he simply too drunk?

"W-Well, I... I would say that, clearly, our fathers thought Loki and I would be the more suitable pair..." He murmurs, but he sounds a bit halfhearted, overwhelmed and flustered with red cheeks.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 3:55 AM
"A grave, grave oversight, I fear, for surely I've never seen anyone as lovely as you, dear Gwyndolin, and my heart will yearn for you forever." He kisses Gwyndolin's hand again, drawing a sigh out of Loki. "Perhaps, if I am swift, I can convince our fathers of their error? Ahh, Loki, have you told Gwyndolin yet that I adore snakes??"

"No, brother, the topic hasn't come up," Loki says, brow creased and that empty smile on his lips. "Besides, weren't you just declaring your love for some other woman? What was her name, Æringunnr?"

"She's a pale shadow besides a beauty such as this," Thor booms, and bats his lashes at Gwyndolin, "and her name was Æringærðr, actually, really, Loki, it's like you don't even listen when I talk to you!" He laughs, and releases Gwyndolin's hand, to ruffle Loki's hair with great affection, upsetting his golden circlet. Loki does not look especially pleased by this.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 4:00 AM
Gwyndolin is simultaneously paradoxically flustered and sparkle-eyed that anyone would clearly want him so much, and also rather affronted at how flighty Thor is in his affections. Lady Siffrid was right... It snaps him just enough out of being mildly starstruck by Thor's charms, enough to, again, notice how clearly displeased Loki is...

Gwyndolin very politely takes his hand back, and says, softly, "Perhaps in another life, it could have been, Thor, but as we are, I think it would be distasteful to steal away thy brother's bride, would it not..?" Even charmed as he is, flustered as he is, by someone who apparently likes snakes so much, who sees him as such a beauty, he feels... He feels uncomfortable suddenly, the sparkles giving away to an uneasy feeling. "It would be quite cruel to thy brother- not a very brotherly thing to do, my Lord."

God, dude, the bro code.

itsAlana - Yesterday at 4:08 AM
Thor blinks, his drunken mind working around what Gwyndolin said, then sighs and agrees, "Ahhh, I suppose it is a little different when my brother is wed to a beautiful woman, and not merely having one hang off him being cruelly ignored. A shame... I will dream of the other life where we wed each other, fair Gwyndolin. But-- before I give you up to my brother-- may I..."

He trails off, and his eyes glance down, and Loki says, very firmly but with a bright lilt in his voice, like he's not bothered at all, "I think, perhaps, dear brother, you should ask Gwyndolin for things in the morning, when you are not so drunk. For now-- I do believe the Lady Sif is without a dancing partner. Why don't you go show her a good time?"

Loki turns his golden brother away from them, and pushes him with an unsubtle shove of magic towards the woman who gave that not-even-halfhearted speech during dinner, and rises to his feet. "I think, perhaps, I have had enough of parties for the night," he says, offering Gwyndolin his hands to help her up. "I find myself suddenly and strangely exhausted, in fact."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Yesterday at 4:13 AM
Gwyndolin is glad Thor seems to... at least partially understand. But then he starts to ask something, before being interrupted by Loki, who is very, very bothered, despite acting like he is not bothered at all, which just makes it more clear to Gwyndolin how quite bothered he actually is.

Gwyndolin isn't quite sure he wants to know what Thor was glancing at, and what he was going to ask- for all he knows maybe it was a pat of a snake's scaly snout. But it could have been something else. And Gwyndolin doesn't want to know if it was.

Instead, his cheeks are rather red, and his head and chest feel funny, and he's very overwhelmed. "Yes... I must say, I have to agree." He says, taking Loki's hands so that he can stand. "It has been a long day, and I am terribly weary... I think I would like this day to come to its close, now."

itsAlana - Yesterday at 4:23 AM
Loki helps her up, and then, rather possessively, drapes an arm around her waist, looking out over the dance floor to catch his mother's eye and indicate with a gesture that they're leaving the party. She replies with a slight wave of her hand, and Loki sighs a soft little sigh, turning to lead Gwyndolin out a rather small and unobtrusive side door, instead of the massive archway they entered through.

"My suite isn't too far away," he murmurs, "and from what I understand, any necessities you need should have been brought in during the wedding." His arm has not moved from around Gwyndolin's waist.