arranged marriage gwyndoloki au pt. 1 (investigations)

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 1:17 PM
Gwyndolin is due to be wed, and he finds himself incredibly uneasy with this fact. They still know so little about the people known as Asgardians, that his father is so eager to make good relations with, enough that he's willing to risk marrying his strange youngest child do the younger son of Odin, the Asgardian Godking. He knows even less about this 'Loki', his future husband. That is obviously not the only reason Gwyndolin is uneasy- it's a big risk, Gwyn marrying him off as a bride. He knows his father really does truly think of him as a daughter, a young woman, and none but their family know the truth. But Gwyn is more than aware of the facts of the body Gwyndolin was given at birth, that he is not what any other would think of as a woman- but as a strange man, or worse- something strangely inbetween, but still decidedly not a woman. At least, not enough to satisfy a husband. And little does Gwyn realize, but his efforts to raise Gwyndolin as a true daughter only affected the surface.

But Lord Gwyn is banking on a bargaining chip or three he can use against Odin should the truth of Gwyn's youngest daughter be found out, and the Asgardians displeased- Gwyn, for one, wasn't exactly happy to find out it was not the strong, proud, thunder-wielding Thor that would be joinin his family, but the weaker, more magically inclined (and surrounded by unflattering rumors and tales) Loki.

And so Gwyndolin is left in the crossfire, to pray that he will remain safe under his father's reassurances and bargaining chips, and with little information to go on about the man he is meant to marry. Gwyndolin had seen the Asgardian royalty, or at least the king and queen, at least once, but he's sure he hadn't seen Loki among them. He doesn't even know what his betrothed looks like...

It is for that reason that the usually reclusive, unseen Gwyndolin removes himself from some layers of obscurity, to send out feelers and requests for any information or rumors of this Asgardian Prince Loki, requests to his brother and sister, to the Lord's Blade, and even to servants- perhaps even to reach Asgardian emissaries and diplomatic servants themselves, as there are now several of them residing in Anor Londo and his father's court by the grace of Lord Gwyn, as emissaries and servants of Anor Londo now reside in Asgard, to aid in their communications and friendly relation.

He waits for the first of any news to reach him in a quiet, obscure sitting room in the palace where few frequent, shrouded in many hanging silken curtains, gently dimming the golden sunlight from outside, and gently obscuring Gwyndolin's full form save for a foggy silhouette, slips of gold and silver-white silks and lace, the shape of a grand, golden corona, and the occasional slither of something earthtoned and scaled trying to keep itself hidden amongst the furniture, draperies, and Gwyndolin's gown.

itsAlana - Last Friday at 1:56 PM
The first person to approach Gwyndolin is a stranger, a woman in the flowing clothes of Asgard with her curls piled high on her head, peeking her head through the door and saying, "I heard someone wished to know more of Loki?" She doesn't seem to realize who she's speaking to-- she has the air of someone delighted to have someone new to gossip to, her eyes bright and her cheeks dimpled. "It would be my pleasure to tell tales of Loki Silver-tongue to someone who knows not of his exploits."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 1:59 PM
Honestly, Gwyndolin would be Quite Happy to speak to someone who doesn't really realize who he is- he likes to stay unseen and unknown as much as he can. Attention doesn't often bring nice things for him- even if his presence was known, he likes to stay shrouded, hence his choice in location as he sits among the veiled curtains.

"Yes, please." He says, voice soft. It would be of little surprise if the Asgardian guessed that she may at least be in the presence of divine Anor Londo nobility, albeit perhaps not of the royal family itself. "I know so little of him. Enter, if thou wouldst, and speak of him to me."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 2:06 PM
She enters with a bounce in her step, sandals light on the floor, and says, "Ahhh, of course, my lady! Tell me, what would you wish to know about Lord Loki? The good or the bad? Or do your folk adore the scandalous? There's some of that, too!" Laughing, she seats herself on one of the chairs, ankles crossed demurely. "He was quite a little scamp when he was younger, though you can hardly blame a child for getting into trouble."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 2:10 PM
Oh, that is very much not a good sign, and Gwyndolin finds that he feels like a cold stone just plummeted to the pit of his stomach. "No, we do not usually favor scandal, and adequate decorum is usually expected... And I to assume, then, that this would be a problem for thy Lord Loki?" His nose crinkles slightly- what sort of man is he being betrothed to? How much does his father not know? "I am afraid the court knows very little of the sort of man the Great Lord is welcoming into the Royal Family."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 2:17 PM
The asgardian woman hums, and says, chattering amiably, "Well, I doubt he'd cause as much trouble here as he has at home-- he's calmed down since he was a child, and it sometimes seems like many of his adventures are spurred on by Thor's rashness-- I've heard the Heir of Sunlight has a somewhat similar character-- so if he were to stay here while Thor went home, I imagine he'd be better able to put his silver tongue to things besides misadventures. Ahhh, but I know nothing of his bride to be-- sometimes it seems like she hardly exists! If she's as quiet a wife as she is a presence in this place, it might be that he'd find her boring, and go find the kind of excitement we're used to is Asgard." She taps her forefinger against her chin. "It's really quite hard to say how things will go, since he's never been married before, and has always been attached to Thor very nearly at the hip."

This is probably not too reassuring.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 2:22 PM
This is absolutely not reassuring. And also hurts Gwyndolin's feelings a little, but that's absolutely nothing new whatsoever. Story of his life. "I... see." He says quietly, fiddling his fingers together where they had been folded in his lap.

"I have heard more of thy Lord Thor than I have of his brother, in truth, and I must admit, the similarities between he and the Sun's Firstborn are curious." It is highly likely that if they haven't met yet, one or both of them plan to, and will probably be amazing friends. The power of Thor and Gwyndolin's brother's combined sunshiney friendliness and lightning themed warrior eagerness will be cacophonous. "May I ask what... sort of 'misadventures' and 'excitement' have come to be expected of Lord Loki? Thou art speaking frequently of his 'silver tongue' as well... Is it something worrisome?"

itsAlana - Last Friday at 2:35 PM
The woman laughs, lightly, and says, "He is ever the popular one, Lord Thor! It must be worrisome, to be getting the less beloved of the two dropped in your laps..." She taps her chin again, considering, then says, "Loki has a reputation for glibness, for being quick- and clever-tongued, able to talk his way out of punishment and into places he does not quite belong. It could be a boon-- Queen Frigga is also clever and quick, but with her many years of experience, she's better able to use to move her strategies forward so subtly that I think some people don't even realize she's playing them. With age, he might take more after his mother, and become a shrewd politician... he's just still so young! Only a few thousand years old, and so full of vigor and need to prove himself. I remember when I was that age..." She laughs again, and takes a moment to smile at the noblewoman on the other side of the veils. "As for misadventures, well, there's all the things young sorcerers get themselves into-- ah, I do want to say, you may hear mutterings about the magic, but I think the bias against it is silly, Frigga is beloved and she taught Loki all he knows, and not every boy can throw hammers around like they're made of feathers-- but I imagine any child who can change their appearance as easily as Loki took to it would steal a few cakes from the kitchens, don't you?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 2:52 PM
"I... suppose." says Gwyndolin, who had never once dreamed of using his talent at illusions to be sneaky- at least, not in ways other than being out of the way of his brighter and better family, quietly in his own shrouded corner. He is slightly comforted, however, in the lady's distaste at the bias against magic, one apparently as strong among the Asgardians as it is here in his own world. He'd heard, at least, that his betrothed was gifted in magic rather than the might of a warrior, a fact that displeased his father, and aided in the decision to wed him to Gwyndolin, rather than the shining and beloved Gwynevere. "I suppose 'tis not unlike in our court, that such skill in the arts of magic over that of physical prowess is the domain of the feminine, and for a man to participate is seen as distasteful..."

He is more and more sure that his brother would strike up a strong comraderie with Thor, and that Gwyn would have loved to have the God of Thunder joined to his family of lightning-imbued sunlight- and the disappointment he must carry that he is instead receiving another like his already disappointing lastborn. But something catches Gwyndolin's curiosity- he'd acknowledged it already but it's only just now truly reigstering the implications. "I beg thy pardon- didst thou say he can change his appearance?"

itsAlana - Last Friday at 2:58 PM
"Oh, yes! He's quite skilled at it." She laughs, and says, "Sometimes he uses it at parties-- he's a skilled mimic, and while the warriors rarely see the humor in it, there's quite a number of Asgardian maidens who've giggled with him over the silliness of the more war-like men. I'm no maiden, but I've always found it rather charming when he sidles up to me in the guise of one to gossip-- I'm sure he thinks he's getting away with it, but he really does have the most clever way of wording things." With another laugh, she confides, "I'm rather known as a gossip, I'm afraid, though I do try not to spread anything malicious or untrue. I just love talking so much!"

This is doubtless a surprise to Gwyndolin.

"I'm sure Queen Frigga asked me to accompany the party to this fair Anor Londo so I could gossip back to her about what I see here," she adds, which might actually be a surprise. "She does love Loki dearly-- pardon me if I'm too blunt, but she surely favors him much more than his father does-- and I've little doubt she'd make Odin call off the wedding if she thought Loki would suffer."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 3:12 PM
Gwyndolin is completely unsurprised, and probably finds it harmlessly distasteful, but it is also currently incredibly useful- which, it seems, the Queen may agree.

Gwyndolin, however, is a bit caught on the idea that the sorceress queen favors the weaker, more magically inclined son, as opposed to the father that, like Gwyndolin's own, favors the stronger, more valiant warrior of a son. And he finds himself... mildly envious. What would his life have been like, perhaps, if he'd had a mother to contrast his father's bias? He'd almost had something like it, long ago, with the Goddess of Sin, but... the rogue Velka wasn't terribly popular in his father's court. Also surprising is the dawbing realization that Loki is apparently gifted in changing his shape- a gifted illusionist, like Gwyndolin, yet different. How... curious.

"I must admit as well," He begins, finding himself bound to righteous honesty- and possibly out of shameful self preservation, "That the Great Lord likely shares thy Lord Odin's feelings on Loki, and it is for that reason he has chosen to give him the hand of his lastborn, rather than the highly belived hand of the Princess of Sunlight." Maybe for that reason, Queen Frigga will call ot off, and Gwyndolin will be out of harm's way... though his father will be grievously disappointed (unfortunately for Gwyndolin, alas, it will not work).

itsAlana - Last Friday at 3:22 PM
The woman is quiet for a long moment, and rests her chin in her hand, leaning on the arm of her chair as she thinks. "... Though I have not met your Gwyn's youngest, I can't help but think it would be hard for her to be a worse match than the Princess of Sunlight would have been for Loki," she confesses. "He is not a very... sunshine person, and even his beloved brother can sometimes seem to stress his tolerance for brightness. It might be for the best that Lord Gwyn doesn't want him to marry the Princess, even if it is meant as a snub."

She is an honest woman, that much can be said!

"... I don't imagine the quiet lastborn likes being presented as a snub, though. Or either lastborn. I wonder if Loki feels unvalued by his father, being fobbed off into a political marriage..." She sighs, softly, a little worriedly. "It wouldn't surprise me much if he did, poor boy, though I doubt he'd say anything. He does so want Odin to show him some of the favor the Allfather shows Thor."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 3:37 PM
As an aside, Gwyndolin finds it so odd hearing the title 'Allfather- used for the Asgardian king, a title that, in this world, belongs to his great uncle, Lloyd, father of the Way of White.

"I... hm. I see." His voice has lowered almost to a whisper in pensiveness, his head tipped down to his lap, where he twists his lacegloved fingers together. He can't be sure if he should be feeling complimented or insulted, but he certainly feels uncomfortable for many reasons- some of these descriptions of Loki feel disturbingly familiar in a way that makes him uneasy, brings thoughts to his mind about his father that are unwanted. The idea that he would feel snubbed as well, for the position his father has put him in... he doesn't like thinking about it. His father wants him to feel honored. He doesn't feel snubbed. He shouldn't, mustn't...

"Lord Gwyn's lastborn is one who carries strongly the aura of the moon, light of sorcery and femininity. Perhaps it is... an aura Lord Loki may favor, then." There's an odd feeling rising in his chest, one he's not sure how he feels about. "However, 'tis true that the Great Lord gives her hand as one of equal value from him as Loki's is from Lord Odin, as though she has the love any daughter would receive from a father, she is not the one the Great Lord would have asked for, and 'tis for many reasons that she remains so oft shrouded. I would be sorry that thy royal family receives such an... inadequate hand, if not that it seems matched."

Hi did you know Gwyndolin has severe self worth issues? Also he is definitely hinting without saying that there are things about the lastborn that many find distasteful but are too polite to directly say it. "Unfortunately, I feel 'tis not my right to say more about the Dark Sun. Thou wouldst have to ask another more looselipped for the reasons she stays so out of sight, so as not to offend the sensibilities of the noble."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 4:02 PM
The woman looks at him through the curtains, and says, softly, "You worry for your lord's youngest, don't you?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 4:06 PM
"I-I beg thy pardon??" He blurts in surprise- that's not at all the sort of response he expected! "'Tis a rather impertinent question, is it not? The Princess of Moonlight is not a favored presence in the Great Lord's court by the nobility, cloistered for good reason. I would worry more for the Lord Loki's reputation."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 4:30 PM
She waves off the claim, and says, firmly, "I think well that you do. Few enough of your city seem to, in my opinion. Loki has a mother and a brother who love him and would gladly kill those who hurt him, but I've seen not a soul here that seems worried about the Dark Sun being married off to an outsider, and heard more than one murmur of distaste about sorcery. I don't know what kind of husband Loki will be, and perhaps you are right to worry about that-- and I am fairly certain that Odin will not be a terribly good father in law-- but the women of Asgard and the lady Frigga will welcome her, and make sure she's treated well in our realm, even if the queen need twist some ears." Her voice softens as she adds, "We have welcomed many outsiders, my lady. The Dark Sun will not be ill-treated, and if she ever feels she is, she can come to Lady Siffrid." That's her!

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 4:43 PM
Gwyndolin's fingers twist and grip in the delicate fabric of his skirt, his unseen face screwing up. He. He isnt't sure how he feels about the direction this conversation has taken. It feels strange, uncomfortable- can she not see that he is expressing the objective facts that Gwyndolin is unfavored for good reason? Scaled bodies shift against the floor just out of sight, slithering under silk and in shadow. It's grown far too personal, and he is certain he dislikes that.

"... Of what I know of the royal family, the Lady Gwyndolin receives plenty of affection from her cherished elder siblings, blind as they are to faults and magnanimous of heart. But..." His chest feels tight. "I... suppose 'tis good that thou art so sure she will find a place of comfort in Asgard, but I would implore thee to reserve thy judgement of the Dark Sun for the day she is joined to thy prince. 'Tis difficult for the repulsivity of Lady Gwyndolin's nature to be hidden in the open- but I have said far too much already. My apologies."

Nose crinkled and eyes stinging oddly- what is this pull in his chest?- he continues. "Perhaps we should return to the original subject, unless thou hast said all there is to say. Is there any more about Lord Loki that curious minds may wish to know?"

itsAlana - Last Friday at 5:38 PM
Siffrid sighs, and says, "Of course there is more to say on Loki. He is thousands of years old; one does not live that long without doing at least a few things in life, and as royal as he is, he's had quite the audience for it. But unless turning into a snake so his brother can throw him at scullery maids is something you're desperate to hear about, it might be best for you to ask more pointed questions, my lady."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 5:48 PM
Gwyndolin sighs as well, his fingers relaxing a bit on his lap again. "I am afraid I know not what more specific questions to ask. Any more than what thou hast already told of him, is an enigma to all in Anor Londo."

Maybe the conversation must draw to a close? "Perhaps I could call upon thee again, Lady Siffrid, should any rumors reach my ears in need of clarification."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 5:52 PM
"Of course, my lady. I'll be here until after the wedding, and I'm sure that I will not be hard to find." She stands, and gives a curtsey-- not as deep as it might have been if she'd been certain that she was speaking with royalty, but certainly deep enough to show respect to another noblewoman-- and asks, "Is there anything you think Lord Loki or Queen Frigga should know about the Dark Sun, or about Anor Londo? I would be happy to pass it on-- as gossip from an anonymous source, of course."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 6:10 PM
Gwyndolin nods in response to the curtsey, and then hums softly in thought at the question... And then, quietly, he says, "The Dark Sun truly will not be quite what they may expect, and I would implore they keep that in mind... They may not be happy with what they find."

He's not only talking about the snakes. "That is all I can say. Good day, Lady Siffrid, and thou hast my thanks."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 6:13 PM
She smiles through the curtains, and says, "I will tell them to be kind to her, my lady." She curtseys again, and says, "A good day to you, my lady," and leaves without further pestering, leaving Gwyndolin to his thoughts (or to avoiding his thoughts, whatever the case may be).

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 6:27 PM
GWYNDOLIN IS ALL ABOUT SMOTHERING HIS UNCOMFORTABLE THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS! He will get about doing that, remaining troubled throughout the day as he struggles with strange and uncomfortable thoughts...



It's a good while later, the preperations on his upcoming wedding proceeding relatively smoothly, if hectic. The wedding itself, it has been decided, will take place at Asgard. However, it's not merepy Gwyndolin that is being prepared, as Anor Londo will also be providing much of the cuisine and decor ans other things at the Asgardian venue, as a mingling of their cultures. To that end, much is being gathered and prepped throughout the kingdom, up to and including orders for numerous of the shimmering lilies and enchanted whitebark branches from Oolacile.

However, the preperations have brought much more than Gwyndolin being accidentally pricked and poked by a seamstress' pins as he's measured and fitting for what will soon be the greatest bridal gown in the history of Anor Londo, according to the seamstress... and his father's own boasting. It has brought relaxing Asgardians letting their tongues gradually loosen, letting slip rumors, especially from the Asgardian servants to the Anor Londian ones. Rumors that eventually reach the Dark Sun's ears from the porcelain shrouded lips of the Lord's Blade. Rumors that return him to his now preferred meeting room hung thickly with silken curtains, having called again for Lady Siffrid.

itsAlana - Last Friday at 6:30 PM
It does not take her long at all to come again to the sitting room, though she's somewhat less done up this time, and settles into the same armchair with a weary sigh. "Ahhh, my lady, thank you for calling me here," she says, "it's exhausting to help plan a wedding across two realms. How have you been?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 6:39 PM
"I can only imagine." He says, a bit tiredly himself, with thinly veiled sarcasm. "I have been alright, albeit quite... caught up in the local preparations. It does not matter, however, I have a pressing question for thee, Lady Siffrid, about Lord Loki." He pauses for only a moment, before launching into what he's been meaning to ask. "I hath been hearing rumors of his possible... Promiscuity? The servantry of our realms have been trading their teasing jokes, among them the idea that perhaps Lady Gwyndolin may be the least monstrous of his lovers- what is the meaning of this? I understand that 'tis a marriage purely of politics than love, but I would have assumed that even the lastborn of Lord Gwyn would be expected to have a husband's fidelity."

Gwyndolin does not like tramps: it is known.

itsAlana - Last Friday at 6:50 PM
She sits up, and says, "Ah, well," and pauses for a long moment. "... The men of Asgard are not especially encouraged to be chaste," she starts, a hint of disapproval in her own voice, "though often the women are, despite that arrangement being rather silly if you consider it for a moment. Warriors especially are excused their little... dalliances, especially after a victory, and Thor has lead many battles to victory with his brother at his side..."

She stops there, then says, after a moment, "Loki has, perhaps, chosen some... more unusual companions, not always of Asgardian blood. Or of... a form similar to his own. It's kept somewhat to whispers among the nobility, since Odin doesn't much care to be reminded of it, and as far as I know Lord Thor isn't even aware of his brother's... unusual tastes, encouraging him to chase the kind of buoyant maidens Thor himself favors and teasing him on his pickiness." She spreads her hands, helplessly. "I suppose the people under the notice of the Allfather and the royal family must have looser tongues." Siffrid clasps her hands, and sinks back in her chair. "I have not heard anything of him being... unfaithful to any lover, though."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 7:06 PM
Gwyndolin purses his lips as Siffrid speaks, and at the mention of Loki's more... unusual dalliances, well, he can only imagine- and he doesn't wish to, his fingertips going to his lips instead in scandalized shock. "I... may need to bring this to our Great Lord's attention, regardless of if Loki may keep faithfulness in the coming marriage. Our people expect some measure of decorum, especially among the nobility. 'Tis not always followed, of course, but those become matters of scandal." He takes a breath, lowering his hand. "But especially for the betrothed of the Lady Gwyndolin, whose greatest virtue hath ever been great chastity- she has lived under lifelong vows of such chastity, if thou art not aware, vows that none expected she would need to revoke, but for the sake of a husband..."

He clears his throat and continues the point. "Regardless, what I am trying to make clear is... It may not be well accepted by the royal family that the lastborn will be receiving one who has had 'dalliances' prior to marriage, especially whatever these... 'unusual' companions may have been. 'Tis a good thing the servantry have looser tongues, in fact, for this to be able to be brought to the Great Lord's attention. What if there are bastards the royal family may need to worry about?"

He knows, of course, that once he's married to Loki, and his sex revealed, that this will all become a moot point, even if the marriage isn't invalidated then and there, but maybe this could get him out of it... Not that he's trying to wriggle his way out from his father's will or anything! Of course he would do anything his Lord father asks of him! He just... thinks this is important, and maybe the wedding may need to be cancelled for it!

itsAlana - Last Friday at 7:10 PM
Siffrid sighs again, and says, "Oh, there's royal bastards, though most of them are Thor's." Not all of them, but most... "If that is an obstacle, neither of the Allfather's sons should marry into Anor Londo."

It's a blunt statement, but Siffrid is tired, and the lady wishes to know, so... there it is.
Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 7:13 PM
"It may be an obstacle. That is for the Great Lord to decide, but-" Gwyndolin sighs- he knows his father, and his hopes that the man's mind will change are... extremely low. Practically underground. "...'Tis likely that his eagerness to join his royal family to that of thine own world's may supersede his distaste at handing the most chaste of his children to such a man. But I expect Lady Gwyndolin will not like it one bit should that happen."

Gwyndolin does not like it one bit.

itsAlana - Last Friday at 7:20 PM
Siffrid opens her mouth, then closes it again, swallowing whatever she was about to say in snippy tiredness, and instead says, tone tired but gentle, "If it were to make a difference, I expect Lord Gwyn and the Allfather ought to have discussed it beforehand, and the Lady Gwyndolin informed that her husband-to-be has already brought children into the world. If she doesn't know, either Odin lied about it for the sake of the wedding, Lord Gwyn didn't care to ask, or didn't care to inform his daughter that she would be a stepmother." She pauses, then adds, "I do appreciate that you're thinking of the Lady Gwyndolin's feelings, though. As I said when last we met... she seems to have few enough people thinking of her as more than a pawn in their politics."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 7:26 PM
"I do not disagree, Lady Siffrid, that ought to have happened, but if the fault doth not lie with thy Allfather, then Lord Gwyn hath been known to be hasty and stubborn in his decisions-" He stops himself short, not at all knowing where the hell that snap about his father came from, covering his lips with his fingertips, scandalized at himself. It's a good thing Siffrid is of Asgard, and not Anor Londo, to have heard him blaspheme so... "... My apologies, 'tis not my place to speak of the Great Lord so. I do not know where that came from. Forget I said it."

He supposes he can't get away from the idea that he cares about 'Lady Gwyndolin's' wellbeing, even with his own self-loathing and hatred of his own repulsiveness. But he supposes he does care about himself in some ways, at the very least about worsening his already poor reputation, and how it may color the rest of his family. "I am merely skeptical of the arrangement and how it may benefit our people, Lady Siffrid. It would not do well for any of us should this marriage, for whatever reason, go up in flames before even reaching the nuptial bed."

But especially for Gwyndolin.

itsAlana - Last Friday at 7:33 PM
She actually laughs, softly, and says, "I'll not tattle on you, my lady. 'Tis good for the soul to speak your mind from time to time. That's why my soul is so robust, you see." She pats her chest with a hand, over her heart, and smiles at the lady on the other side of the curtains. "It would be no surprise to me if the Allfather lied. Sometimes he does that. I would not assume to know Lord Gwyn well enough either way, but the Allfather has lied to me, to my face, for what I'm sure HE thought were very good reasons." Siffrid sounds like she doesn't think they were very good at all! "But... mmm. My lady, if I may be frank with you?"

Franker than she already is?? Say 'yes' at your own risk, Gwyndolin.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 7:36 PM
Gwyndolin is wary about saying yes. He ponders it a moment, making quiet, unsure noises, biting his lower lip and twisting his fingers together in his lap. But... His curiosity is stronger today, and maybe it is something that could be helpful to him, even if may not be something he'd be happy to hear. But he has no way to know unless he lets her. "... What is it thou wouldst say, Lady Siffrid?"

itsAlana - Last Friday at 7:44 PM
"It is not a scandalous thing in Asgard, for a man to bed those he is not married to. The only thing that makes Loki the subject of mockery is that he is unpopular with other men, for being more clever and less violent than them, and that he's loved creatures besides fair maidens. I would not have it held against him that he is not a perfect model of Asgardian masculinity, for the Asgardian masculine sleeps with a thousand time more serving maids than Loki has, and if the Lady Gwyndolin is troubled by his handful of discreet lovers, she's unlikely to like very many men in Asgard at all." Sympathetically, Siffrid adds, "She would not be the only one to not like very many men in Asgard."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 7:53 PM
Gwyndolin... actually laughs softly, almost a chuckle, from behind lace-gloved fingers. "... Thou art not wrong in that assumption, then, Lady Siffrid, that Lady Gwyndolin may not find any Asgardian men so desirable due to such looseness. Though I am sure, still that the... 'creatures' thou speakst of may still cause her troubled thoughts." WHY DOES SHE KEEP SAYING THINGS LIKE THAT? WHAT HAS LOKI SLEPT WITH?? GWYNDOLIN IS NOT SURE HE LIKES THE IDEA OF MARRYING A ZOOPHILE AAAAA- "Still. It may be likely that Lady Gwyndolin will have to... swallow her pride, and bear her assigned burden, as her Lord Father's daughter. I will bring it up to him regardless, just in case. Thou hast my sincerest gratitude, Lady Siffrid."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 8:01 PM
Is it zoophilia if Loki was also a horse at the time? Something to think about!

Regardless, she says, "I wish I could offer the Lady Gwyndolin some comfort, but it's hard to deny that Loki has... not always behaved in the most admirable way. Still, I think that she will not find him entirely uncharming, regardless of his past deeds or misdeeds." She pauses, then adds, thoughtfully, "If the wedding does end up cancelled, though, I might scream."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 8:06 PM
Gwyndolin makes a sympathetic sound, and says, "I would not blame you should that happen. It hath been terribly stressful for us all in Anor Londo." He sighs softly, sitting back a little bit, hands folded politely in his lap. "'Twas all I wished to speak of with thee, Lady Siffrid. I have mine own duties to which I must soon attend- 'tis my hope that thou wilt find thee thy needed rest. ... Though the sunlight of Anor Londo is most holy, I can understand if it is disturbing to the rest of someone used to darkened nights. Do not feel afraid to ask for thicker curtains in thy guest quarters if thou must."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 8:10 PM
She confesses, with a laugh, "I've hung one of my cloaks across the window already, but I thank you for the advice, my lady. I hope that you and your Lady Gwyndolin will rest... well, perhaps not rest easier, knowing that not all rumors of Loki are false, but at least rest in the knowledge that you know what is true instead of wondering how bad it is." She stands, and straightens out her dress before dropping another curtsey. "Until we see each other again, my lady."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 8:35 PM
Lady Siffrid receives a polite nod in reply to her curtsey before her departure, after which Gwyndolin sighs heavily, feeling all jittered. It takes him a while of sitting, and thinking, before he finds the courage to leave, and have someone schedule him a meeting with his father- he likely employs one of his siblings to do it for him, their word able to pull Gwyn aside faster than his own.

In truth, Gwyn is not too pleased to hear about Loki's dalliances (and also displeased but less so at the news that it is also not uncommon for Asgardian men in general) and it causes hope to rise in Gwyndolin's heart- only for it to promptly be dashed as, despite his displeasure, Gwyn tells him, in essence but much more lovingly worded, 'suck it up, buttercup'. The marriage will continue, and Gwyndolin will simply have to make due. In fact, Gwyndolin is sure that in a morbid way, the news also *pleased* Gwyn- that's a bargaining chip that may aid him politically, should things be truly upended by the truth of Gwyndolin's sex.

And so, the plans continue unchanged. Still unable to resist his own curiosity, Gwyndolin allows further rumors to find their way to his ears- including from his own seamstress, during one of their sessions of her perfecting the gown made especially for him, fitting the half-finished garment to his shape. "I hear Lord Loki is quite handsome, my Lady," She says, causing Gwyndoling to blush and reply "O... Oh??"

"Ah, forgive me, my Lady, I know thou art chaste... But I have heard that he is not displeasing to the eyes. Not so strapping as his elder brother and other warriors of Asgard, not like our knights or the Firstborn, but still pleasing in his own right. Charming, too." He has heard that one, it's true, but it's sort of news that despite Loki's reputation, there are enough that think him handsome for it to get around as a rumor all the way to Anor Londo. "Perhaps thou couldst consider thineself lucky, even if thou art not being wed to Lord Thor."

The thought leaves Gwyndolin feeling oddly uneasy for a good while.

Other rumors reach his ears as well, ones that are about as concerning as those of Loki's promiscuity- in this case, Asgardians refering to Loki as a God of Mischief; Trickery; Lies... Something of Great Concern to the righteously hearted Gwyndolin. Lady Siffrid had said he had been a bit of a trouble maker, and that some of his unpopularity is unwarranted, and now he is left wondering if, perhaps, she was merely biased in Loki's favor, or, perhaps, if she's the one correct, and it is unfavorable bias causing other to misconstrue or overinflate Loki's supposed mischief, to cause him slander.

He's tempted to call Lady Siffrid again to him, but after their last conversation, he hasn't the heart, sure she is even more tired than before and would not be happy to entertain further worries and poor rumors about Loki, too tired to assuage his fears. He doesn't want to bother her more than he already has. So he doesn't, and silently bears his worries, as the wedding day inches ever closer, his wedding gown finally complete, the test fitting bringing tears to his eyes, and not for the reason the seamstress and her assistants, attempting to soothe him, assume...


And, surely, during the same time Gwyndolin has been trying to learn of Loki, he is not the only one with their ear to the ground, to discover any news about their mysterious betrothed...

itsAlana - Last Friday at 8:56 PM
Loki is not supposed to be in Anor Londo; he is supposed to be at home, with his mother, learning everything he needs to do for his unexpected wedding that he did not ask for and did not want. He does not, in truth, even want a bride at all, and if he had his way...

Well, the Allfather had made it very clear that Loki's way was not to be had, so he was to stay in Asgard, getting ready for something he could not escape, but Frigga had... well, if not precisely encouraged him, she had not discouraged him, seeing how jittery he was waiting for the axe to fall, and had mentioned apparently casually that she was going to be busy for about three days overseeing arrangements.

Three days... Loki perched on the buttress of the castle of Anor Londo, his magpie wings iridescent green in the sunlight, and counted out the hours he needed to find out more about his bride. Two and a half days, now, and really only two, for the last half a day would be needed to return to Asgard; he would have to work quickly.

Fluttering around the palace, he found an open window, and perched on its sill, examining the room beyond; finding it empty, he hopped in, and slid into his own form for just a second before changing his guise to that of a lovely Asgardian matron, green gown brushing sandaled feet, and exited into the halls, looking for a maid or pageboy.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 9:08 PM
The city of Anor Londo is near as grand as Asgard, golden and gleaming, albeit with a much more ancient charm than Asgard's advanced magic-science aesthetics, with a clockwork turning bride and staircase and elevators in the palace. The sun ever shines in Anor Londo by the grace of its Lord, Gwyn, always holy and warm and bathing the city in a brilliant afternoon glow. It looks like a city made entirely out of churches- and, perhaps, in this word, the term 'house of god' may be very literal, the churches of mortals taking their inspiration from the very literal houses of the gods and nobility of Anor Londo. The palace itself doubles as a massive cathedral, with massive buttresses and terraces and glittering stained glass windows.

There are many open windows and balconeys through which the Loki-magpie could have fluttered in, and only a few that may have had someone that would've tried to shoo him off, and so his intrusion goes entirely unnoticed.

The inside of the palace is built in a peculiar way, to accommodate for both those sized much like the Asgardians, who are most often apparently human and also, equally often, of a lower caste, and those that are exponentially larger, usually varying between ten to fifteen feet, but a few approaching twenty. These people of many sizes roam the halls as Loki does, with their own businesses to attend to- as an obvious Asgardian, he receives some attention, mostly polite nods, whereas most of the others his size would go unnoticed underfoot, largely servants. Even for one looking for the small-folk, they're almost hard to find, with how they slip about so easily in the halls, doing their best to be neither seen nor heard nor in the way. But it shouldn't take long for him to find someone pausing long enough or walking slowly enough to be approached, such as a plain human maid...

itsAlana - Last Friday at 9:14 PM
He approaches her, draping himself in the attitude of one of his mother's inner circle, smiling a little but also looking down his nose a little. "Miss, miss," he says, voice rich and sweet, "I seem to have gotten lost... could you help me find my way back to my fellow Asgardians?" He doesn't give her a moment to hesitate before latching on to her arm, hand laid on her elbow and chattering, "Thank you, my sweet thing, I really do seem to lose my way so often... and I get so distracted about the wedding! It's so exciting, isn't it? I sometimes thought that boy of Frigga's would never get married. Are you married, dear? What do you think of the wedding?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 9:21 PM
The maid seems mildly alarmed by the very touchy Asgardian noblewoman latching onto her, clearly very used to being a more subtle kind of servant. "Ah, w-well, my Lady-" She stammers, voice going a little high in fluster. Help! She's used to being neither seen nor heard while working in the palace! Still, she knows her job, and does as she's asked, starting to lead the woman who she doesn't realize at all is actually Loki himself by the arm, to escort her to the human-sized guest quarters where most of the Asgardian emissaries have been staying. But in this grand palace, it's a bit of a walk.

"Ah... N-No, I am not yet married." She says, a blush appearing on her cheeks. "But... It is rather exciting, is it not? I know little about the either the bride or groom, but the wedding is sure to be grand. The Great Lord Gwyn hath been working us to the bone to prepare it- forgive my frank speech! But I hear it is to be the most grand event since expecting Lady Gwyndolin's birth- 'tis only a shame it will not take place in Anor Londo proper."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 9:30 PM
Loki laughs, light and airy, and says, "Oh, worry not, dear girl! I think we're all quite worked to the bone-- wouldn't it have been nice to have had a couple years to prepare, not a few weeks? One does wonder if Lord Gwyn and Odin have ever planned a wedding before!" He pats her arm, and prys, curiously, "Is it odd that you don't know much about the bride? Loki's very well-known in Asgard, I would have thought his bride would be equally well known in her own city... does she mostly stay out of sight?" Why is his father marrying him off to a goddess that the common folk don't even know? That does sting...

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 9:38 PM
"Well... I suppose it could be considered odd, as Lady Gwyndolin is one of a very few number of the divine to stay so out of sight." She says, tipping her head slightly. "But 'tis so normal for her. She so rarely makes an appearance- I hath yet to see her myself. I could only tell you what I hath heard."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 9:42 PM
"Oh, please, darling, I'd love that! It's so strange to me, that a member of the royal family would keep so out of sight... it feels like you can't go two paces in Asgard without tripping on one of Odin's sons!" Loki squeezes her arm, and smiles eagerly. Please, tell him what you've heard, for it'll all be news to him.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 9:46 PM
"Um, well..." So used to the attention, the girl fumbles over her words a little, mulling over her thoughts even as she speaks. "I've heard both that Lady Gwyndolin is as beautiful as the moon whose aura she carries, though we never see the moon in Anor Londo, only in the farther outskirts of Lordran. I have not seen it in years- sorry, my Lady, I'm rambling, ah..." She clears her throat, "But I've also heard that the Lady Gwyndolin is repulsive and frightening to all who behold her, and it is for that reason she stays hidden."

itsAlana - Last Friday at 9:53 PM
Loki hums, and says, "How strange, that you've heard both things... I've heard two things about people before, of course, but usually they're not quite so contrary to each other! Ahhh, for her husband's sake, I hope she's quite beautiful..." He looks around, and makes a noise of realization. "Ah, I know where I am now! Thank you, dear! You've been quite the darling! Here, as thanks--"

He pulls a pretty jeweled hairpin from his coiffure, and tucks it into the girl's hand, smiling sweetly as a grandmother. "Here, this will suit your eyes, won't it? Thank you, dear. Hopefully when the wedding's over we can all take a nice rest from all this working!"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 9:55 PM
"It is, is it not? I hardly know what to-" Oh, but just as she's getting relaxed enough to chatter away about how weird it is that Gwyndolin has contradictory rumors, the conversation seems to be ending, and she looks almost disappointed- only to be handed a precious hairpin, her jaw dropping in surprise. "Oh, my Lady! Thou'rt terribly generous, my thanks!" Aaaa, she can't decide whether she wants to wear it or sell it!

Regardless, she smiles brightly at the disguised Loki, laughing a bit. "I for one cannot wait to take a few days off once it is all through! Take care, my Lady!"

itsAlana - Last Friday at 10:07 PM
"Loki waves off the claim of generousness, with a sweet laugh, and says, "You too, dear girl!" and detaches himself, continuing the way he was going, slipping around a corner and into the first empty room he finds.

So. His bride is either a beauty or a monster, is she? No wonder Odin did not want them to meet; either he was afraid Loki would not like her, or-- and Loki suspected this-- he thought Loki would like her very much, considering his past tastes in partners.

He lingers for a few minutes, leaning out the window, then hops up on the windowsill, changing his form back into a magpie. Perhaps he could find his bride? See for himself, though he did not have high hopes? Or linger around her siblings, and see if they had anything to say about the wedding...

Byrd, where should Loki go?

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 10:10 PM
Byrd thinks Loki should seek out any sign of Gwyndolin! If (and when) he fails that, perhaps, he can seek out the siblings instead, and find out what they know. The palace is vast, however, and it may take him time to either seek out Gwyndolin herself, or any sign of her supposed presence... Perhaps a little bird may go unnoticed in the massively grand main halls...?

itsAlana - Last Friday at 10:13 PM
Yes, that seems like an excellent plan-- birds probably get in all the time, if they're anything like the birds in Asgard, and Loki swoops off this perch, catching an updraft from the sun-warmed stones and letting it carry him up to a large, open balcony, where he swoops in and starts to flutter about, looking for interesting people to follow. As a magpie, he's so small he could perch on one of the massive knight's helmets without being noticed-- so he does, catching a ride inside, beady eyes peering about curiously.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 10:26 PM
The knights are SO TALL, so long as this one Loki is hitching a ride on doesn't run into an equally tall knight, it's unlikely that it will be noticed that there is a little black and white bird perched upon one of the winged crests of his helmet. And lucky for Loki, where is this knight going? To the main hall, of course! It's the busiest place in the palace, just inside the massive front doors at the top of the dual-sized front steps, with doors and staircases along the sides and massive pillars stretching up to the huge, open, yawning ceiling, lit by the many stained glass windows, especially the massive, beautiful rose window. At the end of the hall opposite the gran doors is another, smaller staircase, leading to another entry way.

The entry way is half barred off by an intricatedly carved wooden gate, bearing carvings of wise men, and the area above the door itself left open-aired with only wooden pillars and railings, the room beyond visible to one who can reach high enough to see (like a bird), bearing more pillars and marble floors and grand statues at the far end... It would be very easy for a little bird to flutter in for a looksee.

itsAlana - Last Friday at 10:39 PM
Loki thinks he will flutter in for a looksie! Within moments, he's up on the railing of the gate, then over, fluttering on dark wings over the main hall, pushing himself up towards the ceiling to avoid detection.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Friday at 10:48 PM
The hall beyond the grand entry hall isnt quite as tall or long, but it's lined with more stained glass windows, through which golden light is filtered into colors and shapes on the marble floors. On the far ends of the corners of the room are a pair of differently sized elevators- a small one for humans, and a big one for the huge people, both going upstairs. Pillars that hold up the upper floor balconey, open in the middle to leave the ceiling visible, stand in rows along the center, each pillar bearing a statue carved into it of the likeness of the Silver Knights. Lifesize. Not quite lifesize, at the end of the hall and up a few steps onto what is likely a ceremonial platform, are a trio of statues.

The center is very obviously Lord Gwyn- whether Loki has seen him (probable, Gwyn and Odin have likely been frequenting each others' halls) or not, he's clearly recognizable, with a grand crown and wild hair and beard, sandled feet and intricate robe, bearing a massive sword upon the hilt of which he rests his stone hands. He is so similar to Odin, albeit with both eyes and more hair.

To the statue's right, and smaller than the statue of Gwyn despite the man it represents being probably twice the size of his father, is a statue of the Sun's Firstborn, with even wilder, gravity defying hair than his father, wearing similar robes and sandled feet, and bearing a long cross-spear in his hands, his face half-shrouded in a large scarf. The other side of the Gwyn stature and also very definitely not lifesize, let alone correctly relative in size to her father, is a statue of Gwynevere, gorgeous and veiled and buxom, the image of a beloved goddess of bounty, fertility, and femininity.

There is, conspicuously, no other statue. No fourth statue of the lastborn- neither beside the other three, nor anywhere else in the hall. Only the Great Lord, the Heir of Sunlight, and the Princess of Sunlight, and a collection of Silver Knights. Hmmmm.

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 12:01 AM
Loki perches on some geometry of stone, and stares down at that.

That's...

That seems like a sign that he's being given a bride that doesn't even get her own statue with her family, though he knows she's at least his age, if not older. Not once in thousands of years did they have a statue made of her.

Either she is monstrous indeed, or she is even more unfavored a child than he is; he does not know which idea he prefers.

Quietly, he swoops down to land on the the hands on the sword, and to watch the proceedings in the grand hall, looking for someone to follow deeper into the palace.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 12:14 AM
Either Gwyn's lastborn is truly monstrous, truly unloved, or perhaps, a lie.

It's a busy enough area of the palace, with the great entry hall just outside and, above, which Loki may not yet realize, the throne room. People come and go, up and down the elevators, chatting and loitering on the balcony above, hustling through on business...

If Loki is looking for someone who looks important, though, more than one of many faceless silver knights or another servant or some random noble, well, he is in luck, as someone very noticeably important arrives in the statue hall, flashing with red and gold- an especially resplendent knight, clearly one of great honor, bedecked in beautifully intricate, golden armor, bearing a lion's face on the helm, with a vividly red plume- and in his hand, he carries the same spear that Loki may notice is being held by the statue of the Firstborn.

Said very important knight is striding purposefully toward the larger elevator, clearly intending to go upstairs- will Loki follow? He could try sneaking in the elevator with the knight, or take a shortcut straight up through the air to the balcony and wait for the knight to step off the elevator at the top.

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 12:26 AM
He will DEFINITELY follow-- in fact, that helmet looks like the perfect place for a bird to perch, and he flutters up to sit his birdy butt upon it. Hello, knight! You have a tagalong!

Loki has been a magpie for a good ten minutes by now, and hardly notices that he's preening the man's crest as they ascend in the elevator, brain occupied with the mystery of Lady Gwyndolin the Statueless.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 12:41 AM
Listen, sometimes, when you shapeshift, you just really get in character. You become a bird and you just can't help but preen some knight's brightly colored plume. It happens.

Anyways, the knight quietly rides the elevator up, not at all noticing the magpie on his helmet, and reaches the top, stepping off to glance around- and then apparently figuring out where he wishes to go. Instead of towards the grand doors to the throne room, slightly ajar and with people moving in and out frequently, especially a handful of Asgardian emissaries, he instead heads to the far end of the balcony that wraps entirely around the upper edge of the statue hall- the other end with a railing to look out at the massive entry hall. And, at that far end, stands one of the larger figures of the palace-

At what has to be around 5 feet taller than the knight Loki is perched on, the man is almost the spitting image of the statue of the Firstborn down below, from the wild, gravity-defying silver hair on which a spindly golden crown rests, to the face-obscuring scarf, to the attire so similar to his father's. The sandals, however, are missing, his feet bare save for some wrappings instead.

"My Lord!" The knight calls when he's already strode halfway across the balconies, and at his call, the Heir of Sunlight turns to face him, with eyes the statue could never capture, a brilliant, shining gold, like the light of the sun itself trapped within his eyes... which crinkle in what is clearly a hidden smile at the sight of the knight. Congrats, Loki, you lucked out and found your soon-to-be brother-in-law! "Sir Ornstein, there you are!"

Will Loki stay put as the knight approaches his lord?

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 12:45 AM
Yes, sure! He clocks in the busy entrance to the throne room, but stays where he is, thinking to himself that he's not done preening this plume yet, it has to be neat...

He's about to meet his future brother-in-law, probably. How exciting!

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 12:57 AM
It's difficult to gauge the size of the man, but he's definitely large, probably around 15 feet tall, maybe less, and burly as hell. Him...beef. And he has such a jolly tone in his voice as the knight, 'Sir Ornstein' apparently, approaches, the future-brother-in-law saying "Prompt as always, my knight. Are you even capable of being late?"

The knight scoffs through his helm. "Of course not. 'Tis expected of a knight to be prompt to his orders... especially to yours, my Lord." There's a pause, and then a slight chuckle, "Though, I suspect sometimes you thrust these short-notice orders upon me in an attempt to test me."

"Mmm. I cannot in good conscience say you are wrong, Ornstein. You got me."

The two speak *very* casually to each other, compared to the way everyone else here in Anor Londo has spoken so far, even the maid from earlier. Clearly, Loki has found a pair of very close friends... perhaps friends that will spill private information Loki might like to hear amongst each other? Regardless, the pair share some quiet laughter and ribbing, before finally getting to the point when Ornstein prompts the Firstborn for the reason for his summoning.

"My father wishes to request the aid of the Asgardians in our war against the dragons after our allegiance with them is solidified." The firstborn says, tone turning serious. By 'solidifying allegiance' he must mean the wedding to join their royal families. "He would have us both there at the talks, to help convince them, and have ideas at the ready. Should they agree, you will be in charge of briefing their warriors on the situation..."

Ooooh, tasty political war-room talks. But not exactly the kind of information Loki is looking for. Shall he stay put a little longer...? He has yet to be noticed, but that may change should he push his luck...

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 1:04 AM
His luck is DEFINITELY going to be pushed, but this is some juicy information-- true, not the most juicy, but juicy indeed, and it does have some implications about the wedding itself. So they don't think Gwyndolin is so monstrous as to ruin talks of military alliance, hmm? Or perhaps they're hoping to push through the alliance prior to the wedding, drag Asgard into their war on dragons (dragons! Loki was aware this world had dragons, but no one had told him there was a war against them) before Loki can meet the bride...

He stays right where he is, a handsome blackbird perched on the knight's helm, listening intently as his beak continues to run over the plume without thought. This knight Ornstein seems close to the royal family; perhaps he can ask him, later, for more information, charm him into letting things slip...

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 1:21 AM
Loki will have his work cut out for him, because unless youve got sunshine for eyes and are built like a brick shithouse and have the floofiest hair and your name starts with the name of your dad, it's highly unlikely he can be charmed very much. Flustered? Easy. Charmed? Difficult.

"Unsurprising." The knight replies, standing so straight and proper with his spear held straight, the non-pointy end against the floor. "Lord Gwyn wishes this war over and done with sooner, rather than later. 'Tis certainly possible we can win on our own, we know this, but-"

"But for every dragon we kill, 'tis a score or more casualties on our side." The firstborn continues. "Yes, I know that, and yet..."

The knight, apparently concerned, steps closer, lowering his voice. "And yet...? My Lord... Gywnfor, what is on your mind?" Ohhhhh this just got even juicier than political information!!! The prince turns away, to lean against the balcony railing, overlooking the grand entryway, people moving about below, his arms folded on the railing. The knight does the same, close to his Lord's side, looking over at him.

"I understand father wants this war done with already- we've been fighting since nearly dawn of time, before we were born, before the sun shone in the sky. I was born for this. And I know we suffer so many casualties with every battle, and yet..." He sighs. "The dragons number so few already, as the war drags on. They're more powerful than even a few dozen of us, but they replenish their ranks much more slowly, and we're beginning to overwhelm them. Do you not think... that to add the might of the Asgardians at our side, would be overkill?"

The knight is clearly surprised by this line of thought, and does not answer right away, instead making a muffled thoughtful sound within his helm, turning away to also look down at the people moving below. And now it's the Firstborn's- Gwynfor's- turn to look at the other. "If I am perfectly honest, my Knight," He starts in a hushed voice, "I am starting to think-"

His thought is clearly interrupted as his eyes catch on something other than Ornstein- more specifically on the bird messing with his plume. "Goodness, what is this? Hello, there! What are you doing on my knight, little thing?" He straightens up, eyes crinkling like he's smiling again, reaching out towards the bird- just in time for Ornstein to straight up as well- "I beg you pardon? Is something on me??"

LOKI HAS BEEN NOTICED!!

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 1:30 AM
Loki is soaking up the Juicy Tidbits like a sponge, until he's near bursting with them-- he knew none of this, and now he knows all of this!-- when he's finally noticed, and he squawks, surprised, fluffing up and hunching his birdy shoulders up at the outstretched hand before realizing it means him no harm.

Hmm. He's not sure how to play this-- so he just lets the magpie play it by ear, sinking back a little, watching how this plays out. He is but a bird, and that is but a (very tall) man, nothing to be afraid of...

After a moment of wary eyeing, the magpie decides it needs to investigate the shining metal around the man's wrist, and he hops over, with a softer caw, hopping and walking up to peck and bite curiously at the bracer. Beautiful! Shiny! He loves it! He is a bird and he loves it!

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 1:40 AM
Ornstein is fussing quietly about the Thing on him, holding very still and creeping up a gauntleted hand, struggling to resist the urge to swipe around his head to get rid of it. But resist he does, and the bird finds itself on Gwynfor's arm instead, the man laughing gently and warmly, holding his arm steadily in front of him, between him and his knight. "Ugh, what corvid creature is this?" Ornstein says, clearly not as entertained by the bird as his Lord. "It should not be here."

"Mmm. You are right, I suppose..." Gwynfor replies, sounding much more amicable. And now, speaking to the bird, he says, "You should return home, little friend, before my father spots you. I know not if you are even a servant of Velka, but he will assume so. 'Tis best you leave quickly, lest he shoot sparks at you or throw you into a painting."

What does any of this meeeaaaan??? Poor Loki would have no idea. But at least its names and concepts he can store for later thought and reference, probably.

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 1:46 AM
He tilts his head, and catches a lock of Gwynfor's hair in his beak, preening it smooth, before chattering softly and fluttering over to the balcony, wings brushing the god's arm for a second. What a handsome fellow! A shame Loki isn't engaged to him...

Ah, well, he doesn't know what a Velka is, but he's quite certain he doesn't want to be shot at or thrown anywhere, so with another soft chatter, he swoops down into the hall and back through the open-topped wooden gates, to settle himself behind the statue nearest the door and listen again. He doesn't expect anything so juicy as that again, but perhaps he can gather something, and follow either Gwynfor or Ornstein when they leave.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 1:57 AM
Ornstein scoffs in distaste at the bird while Gwynfor clearly is completely delighted with it, but then it's gone, Gwynfor's chuckles fading out- until Loki positions himself close by once more. Close enough to hear from the Firstborn, "We should save the rest for later. This is far from the place where I should say such things."

"Understood, my Lord. In the meantime, I suppose I should prepare for the meeting your father wishes to have with the Asgardians?"
"And an outline for the briefing and training to follow, should it go well. And be ready to travel, Ornstein- in case you had not guessed, you are attending the wedding, of course."
"I would hardly dare miss it."
You can practically hear the smile in Gwynfor's voice when he replies, "I know. But also, my father hopes to spring the proposal on Lord Odin once its all over, so be ready to go straight to that after. That means don't get carried away eating and drinking!"
"I should be saying that to you, my Lord!"

(Oh no they're adorable) I MEAN the pair share a few chuckles, before Gwynfor states that as much as he'd like to stay and chat with Ornstein more, he's said what he needs to and his schedule is full- they'll have to find time to spend together later. He has to help his father prepare for the wedding. And so, they part, the knight one way, and the prince another.

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 2:10 AM
Whoops, what's this then? He seems to have someone he needs to follow! Hello again, Gwynfor, pleasure to see you, don't mind him hopping up atop the statue and chattering melodiously to catch your attention, green-shining wings half-spread to make him more obvious to the large fellow. Caw! Caw! Can he come nest in your hair? He has some questions he'd like to ask...

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 2:13 AM
Gwynfor's attention is caught! As is the attention of a couple other passersby, some of which seem ready to shoo the bird away, before Gwynfor laughs, and holds out a hand, if the bird would maybe like to flutter over to it. "Oh, you silly thing, you are persistent, aren't you? I truly hope my father does not catch sight of you." Gwynfor, at least, seems to be amicable, despite the strange disdain for magpies other people seem to have for some reason. "Maybe I should escort you out. A detour from stress and duties would be nice, don't you think?"

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 2:17 AM
Loki chatters agreeably, hopping to his hand, then fluttering up to his shoulder, nesting comfortably in his scarf. Yes, yes! Carry him somewhere less crowded! Someplace he can, maybe, ask a few questions, with or without revealing who he is-- he'll see how it goes. For now, though, he'll coo and chatter and sing softly to himself, making himself very comfortable on this very handsome, very tall god.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 2:23 AM
Gwynfor is perfectly happy with this! He loves an excuse to not have to be bossed around by his dad and deal with the stress of preparing for his baby brother's unasked for wedding! He's gonna fuckin' take it! And so, Loki is taxi'd by the very tall, very handsome, and very friendly god through the palace, taking hallways that are less and less crowded as they go, clearly going into more private areas of the palace... Does Lady Gwyndolin reside behind one of those doors that he passes...?

Regardless, soon they exit to a large, empty balcony between some of the lower towers, overlooking the buttresses and the city far, far below. "Here we are, little friend," He says, fully expecting the bird to take off into the freedom of the sky, "Fly away now, before you find yourself in trouble."

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 2:27 AM
Loki hops out of his scarf, landing lightly on the balcony rail... then turns and sheds his magpie form, more slowly than usual, with a somewhat rueful smile already on his face as he stands on the railing, looking up at the god. "May I ask you a question first?" he asks, raking his hair back from his face in a rather preening gesture.

He's obviously Asgardian, though he's not sure he'll introduce himself yet-- let's see how Gwynfor reacts.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 2:30 AM
Gwynfor reacts with surprise and some measure of alarm! For the briefest moment, electricity crackles from his eyes and around his right arm, before he quickly calms, raising his eyebrows as Loki's shape becomes decidedly Asgardian. "Neither a normal bird nor a servant of the Goddess of Sin, then." He states, crossing his arms. "I must admit, a shapeshifting Asgardian was the last thing I expected a magpie to be."

At least he remains amicable! What a friendly fellow, the Heir of Sunlight is. Who'da thought. "I suppose it depends on the question, doesn't it?

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 2:33 AM
"I mostly wished to know who Velka was-- though I suppose she must be this Goddess of Sin?" He sounds light and friendly, though his eyes had flickered nervously to Gwynfor's arm when electricity crackled down it. "If you wish, you may ask me a question or two as well-- 'tis only a fair trade for the excellent service you did me, helping me back out of that grand hall." He bows, fearless of the drop behind him, as surefooted on his perch as he was when he was a bird.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 2:38 AM
"Indeed, thy assumption is correct." He says, taking on a more formal tone, now that he is speaking with... what may be an Asgardian spy, for reasons he can't fathom. "Velka doth not quite get along with my Lord Father, and not entirely welcome in his court, though she is not formally an enemy. Her servants oft take the form of crows and other corvid shapes." He figures this is information that doesn't really matter in the long run. The Asgardians will probably hear about Velka sooner or later, most likely through her appearing suddenly uninvited like Maleficent at the birth of Aurora. "If I may ask a question, I doubt it would be of much surprise to thee if I ask what an Asgardian is doing spying within my father's palace, as if thy people are not simply welcome to come speak with us?"

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 2:46 AM
"She sounds wonderful," Loki says, with a hint of irony in his smile, "with excellent taste in servants. I suppose I'll have to choose another kind of creature if I wish to lurk again-- perhaps a snake? I'm very good at snakes. Or am I unlucky, and they are the servants of the goddess of hangovers?"

As for the question, well... "Ahhh, well, as for the spying... it was mostly to avoid my own people, since I am supposed to be in Asgard, preparing for the party. I simply wished to know a bit more about the bride before she arrived, but it seems no one knows anything of her-- she doesn't even seem to have so much as a portrait hung on the wall for her followers. I gathered, though, that you're her brother...?" He smiles hopefully up, and asks, "You... HAVE met her, yes? She does really exist?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 2:53 AM
Gwynfor notes that irony in that smile, and simply says, "Not servants of the 'goddess of hangovers', no, but I would suggest avoiding the shape of all things scaly and reptilian, for thine own sake."

But to more pressing questions... Gwynfor barks a bit of a laugh of disbelief at the question, "Of course I've met Gwyndolin! I held Gwyndolin in my own hands shortly after her birth, so tiny she was. Yes, I am her brother, Gwynfor, and Lord Gwyn's Firstborn. It would be ludicrous that I'd never met my own sibling..." There a strange bit of hurt in that last sentence. "And yes, she is decidedly real, though thou wilt not find any statues or portraits of her in Anor Londo."

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 2:59 AM
Loki sighs, and declares, "I suppose I'll just have to give up my spying ways, and walk around as myself when I visit Anor Londo. How boring! Slithering is much more fun." He smiles up at the handsome fellow, and says, "And that IS a relief to know. I was beginning to think, perhaps, that we were having a very mean joke played on us, so little have I been able to find about her." He glances over his shoulder, over the city, and says, "I... suppose I could leave now, but I find myself wondering if you would be willing to talk a moment longer? You truly are the first source of information I've found, though I'd understand if you had more pressing business, Firstborn that you are."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 3:03 AM
Gwynfor shifts his weight from one foot to the other, unsure of what to make of this strange Asgardian so eager to know about his younger sibling. "I can assure thee, at least, that Gwyndolin is quite real, and will be wed to thy Prince Loki soon enough." But whether or not Gwyndolin could be considered a cruel joke his father may be playing on Odin... well, he won't say anything on that. He doesn't enjoy thinking about the way his little brother is treated. "I am meant to be quite busy, but... I do not care for being busy. I could talk a moment longer, yes, depending on what is on thy mind, stranger."

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 3:05 AM
Ahhhh.... Loki hesitates a moment, then says, frankly, "You mean, married to me." He could probably hide it until the wedding, but... Gwynfor has been helpful and kind, and they are to be related soon through his sister; it would be best to start off with honesty, and see where that takes him.

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 3:09 AM
That earns some Very Raised Eyebrows and widened eyes! Okay! This strange Asgardian just keeps popping out more surprises! "Thou'rt Lord Loki? Perhaps I should have expected that, from the rumors I've heard of thee." Like, you know, the magic. "I understand now why thou'rt sneaking around to avoid being spotted by thine own people, then."

He pauses, tilting his head slightly, curiously. "... So, thou'rt Gwyndolin's betrothed. Interesting! That makes thee my future brother-in-law, then!" Here, Loki, you've earned a partially obscured grin from an aggressively friendly sungod!

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 3:16 AM
Loki is just full of surprises! He could pop them out one after another, but instead he goes about settling down to sit on the bannister and saying, "Yes, that's-- why I confessed it to you. It might have been awkward at the reception, elsewise, and I would rather not start off on the wrong foot with my new brother." He smiles, a bit lopsided, up at his fellow god. "A pleasure to meet you, Gwynfor. I really must say, it IS a weight off my mind to know I'm not being entirely played for a fool by our fathers, and that I do have a bride waiting for me." He folds his hands together in his lap, legs dangling. "I hope she's as pleasant as you are."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 3:20 AM
Gwynfor continues to smile brightly, though it falters slightly at the mention of Loki being relieved that their fathers aren't playing him the fool... Gwynfor almost wishes to tell him that he's not entirely wrong about that, but thinks better of it. No need to cause a potential political issue here and now. "I appreciate it. I must admit, I would be a little hurt at the deception once I recognized thee as my sister's groom." He says, coming to lean against the railing beside Loki, all sorts of tall and big. "And she is certainly real, I assure thee again. And I would say she is terribly pleasant, but... I admit, I would have great bias in that respect."

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 11:20 PM
He turns his head, to look out over sunny Anor Londo, and says, a bit wistfully, "I hope you do not misjudge her too much. I do not have great hopes for any marriage my father finds suitable for me, but a pleasant companion would not be the worst thing in the world..." He turns his head up towards Gwynfor, and considers the man, before saying, eyes crinkling at the corners, "I also hope she's at least half so cute as her older brother."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 11:32 PM
O h the flirt actually finds a mark, at least enough that a blush rises to his face, even the parts not obscured by his scarf. "Well! Well, ah..." He's just gonna sidestep the flirting. "... I cannot truly lie to thee, so I must say that there are many here in Anor Londo who would consider my sister's form to be repulsive. I greatly disagree, but again, I am a bit biased."

He sighs softly, and then turns to face Loki, frowning just a bit. "Lord Loki, I must also tell thee- whether it is merely my bias or not, Gwyndolin truly means the world to me, regardless of how anyone else feels about her." Like their father. "I would tear the world apart for her if I knew she were in danger, and I only want her to be happy."

A large, large hand, probably big enough to squeeze Loki's head like a ripe tomato, comes to rest on his shoulder, and squeezes gently- in a way that is both friendly and reassuring, and yet also vaguely threatening. "I hope I am understood."

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 11:40 PM
His smile deepens slightly at the flush, and says, "I've heard as much. It does set a rather ominous tone, that none will tell me what about her is so supposedly repulsive, but... I suppose I'll find out for myself in a few weeks?"

Then Gwynfor swears that he would tear the world apart for his little sister, and... mmmngh... Loki does his best to not be kind of into the giant hand on him, and also to not be immediately jealous that her brother loves her so assuredly. Not that he doubts Thor's love for him, but Thor can also be obviously cruel to Loki...

He hesitates, and says lowly, "I cannot promise that I can give her what I do not have myself, but I have no intention of endangering her."

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 11:43 PM
Gwynfor makes a slightly uncomfortable noise. "I would tell thee, but 'tis not my place. I would just have to trust thee to, perhaps... not be too cross if thou dost not like what thou wilt find of thy bride." He sighs, and then offers Loki a slightly sad, and yet sympathetic smile that reaches his eyes. "So long as thou'rt not cruel to Gwyndolin, I will be satisfied and, I am sure, will she. So long as she is not more unhappy with thee than she is at home."

Gwyndolin is already sad enough!!!!

itsAlana - Last Saturday at 11:49 PM
"I will not be cruel to her," he promises, though he knows it is a promise he might break someday. Still, no harm in promising... "And if I am cross, I will try to be cross at my father for arranging a marriage to a bride I was not allowed to see, and not her for being however she is that is so alarming." He pats the hand on his shoulder, and looks back out over this city.

"... I have another day before I need return home, and there's not much more to be learned here in the palace, I think, except of things that don't especially concern me, or things that can wait until my wedding day. Is there anyplace in this word a wandering magpie might enjoy a few hours relaxing, Lord Gwynfor?"

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Saturday at 11:56 PM
Gwynfor smiles at Loki, all bright and friendly and genuine, like he's already ready to welcome Loki into his family. In all honesty, Loki has said precisely what he could hope to hear, and he's already getting some high hopes. You've gained his trust, Loki! Try not to lose it.

"Well, I, for one, find the highest reaches of Anor Londo to hold a spectacular view, and there's never anyone to bother thee. And I think it would be much easier for a little magpie to reach the spired heights than my lumbering form." He says, all jolly, "Perhaps, should I find a moment myself, I may have to do the same, sometime. It would be nice to be with my thoughts for once."
March 11, 2018

itsAlana - Last Sunday at 12:06 AM
It's so much easier to gain people's trust when you're new to them... perhaps, Loki thinks, he'll even be able to keep that trust. What a daring dream...

"Then I'll go to the highest reaches. Thank you for... for setting my mind at ease, brother-to-be." He pats the god's hand again, and stands on the railing once more, his body slim and dark against the shining brightness of the city of the gods. "I hope we will see each other again soon."

He rolls his shoulders, and stretches his arms, and shimmers into the shape of a bird, swooping off the balcony and immediately wheeling back around, to alight on Gwynfor's shoulder and sing a chattering song to him. Did Gwynfor have anything else to say before Loki left?

Potente Byrd Mæmes - Last Sunday at 12:38 AM
Gwynfor grins, and gives Loki a friendly pat on the shoulder and back, before the Asgardian retakes the shape of a bird, to take off- only to return, and chatter on his shoulder, earning him a chuckle. "I look forward to hopefully getting to know thee better as brothers-in-law soon, Loki. But alas, my Lord Father is surely wondering why I am not attending to my duties. 'TIs time to part, friend."

That said, if Loki's ready to leave, Gwynfor will retreat back indoors, and probably locate Gwyn and be scolded for not taking things seriously and how there's many things he needs to do and be put back to work in the stressful preparations for his little brother's marriage, and maybe forget or be unable to find time to spend alone with his knight, to speak of the things that have been troubling him for a while now. Maybe someday.

He also eventually speaks to Gwyndolin, tells him that he met his husband to be, since Gwyndolin has so been seeking any information he could, not realizing he has already been quizzing one of the Asgardian emissaries. But all he can really tell his sibling is that Loki seems nice, and that he's at least not awful to look at, to which Gwyndolin teases that that's not exactly a difficult judgement for someone as friendly and forgiving as his brother to make.

But at least Gwyndolin has a description to go by! Although slim with dark hair and pale skin and vivid green eyes still leaves an awful lot to the imagination, and Gwyndolin is still left wondering more about his betrothed... But, with how bustling the days to come are, they pass by rather quickly, and before anyone knows it, the fated day is threatening to overcome them.

The wedding itself has been decided to take place at Asgard, so as the date draws close enough to be counted in the tens of hours, a host of guests from Anor Londo begin to arrive, to make the final preparations, to get comfortable for the temporary stay in the glittering city of Asgard. The Royal family is included, Gwyndolin himself ushered, shrouded, from the rainbow bridge to the quarters where he will be prepared for his 'big day', a final fitting of his dress and prepping from his family. Gentle lectures from his father about what he may have to expect, what may happen either way- and to pray that things somehow go well. Reassurances from his sister, and especially his brother, who is more than eager to throw his literal weight around to make sure Gwyndolin will never come to harm if he can help it.
Servants pour through Asgard to set the venue for the wedding, preparing food and decorating, an exorbitant amount of flowers native to Lordran and unique textiles... Gwyn, Gwynfor, and Gwynevere mingle with the Asgardian royalty, making nice and discussing the coming solidification of their allegiance. Gwynfor, for one, makes extremely fast friends with Thor, with almost more similarities than differences, though Gwynfor does give somewhat more back-straining hugs. The four knights of Gwyn followed in the entourage, of course, even the Giant, Gough, whose nature is possibly a bit of a shock to some of the people of Asgard, in contrast to Ciaran, who is rarely seen, ever in the shadows, and the remaining two knights, Artorias and Ornstein, shining and proud, the greatest examples of honorable warriors Anor Londo has to offer.

Gwyndolin, of course, takes part in none of it, while all the bustle happens without him. The room he has been given is as roomy as the one he had at home, and has been redecorated temporarily with a number of curtains, in case any try to catch a glimpse of him through any windows or cracked open doors. But, largely, aside from fitting his dress, a little bit of neccessary cosmetic sorcery, and occasional talks with his family, he has very little to do, only to read the books he managed to bring with him. However, perhaps, if someone is lucky, they may manage to catch a glimpse of him one night, an almost cryptid sight of a pale, ethereal maiden briefly emerging to a balcony on a gentle moonlit Asgardian night, to bathe in the moonlight, giving the mysterious maiden and her white silks and silvery hair and pearlescent skin a sfot glow, even from too far away to make out any details. The appearance is brief, and easily missed, before the foreign maiden vanishes from sight again, to never be seen again until the wedding itself... what rumors that may cause should anyone have seen! Hmmm.

But then..... the wedding?????? Happen??????????????