The Trial of Loki Who: Thor, Wanda Maximoff, Loki NPCs: Balder, Heimdall, Frigga and the many gods in attendance. Where: Asgard, the Well of Urd When: July 5, [Pre-dated] What: Thor reflects in the hours before Loki's trial, and Wanda joins him. Shortly after, court is held and Loki's fate is decided by his brother. Rating: PG
Thor sat by the waters of Urdarbrunnr, the well of youth. In its calm surface was reflected a face that had aged in recent days, though more from experience than the ravages of time that mortals faced. He contemplated the path his life had taken, the choices he had made. The action, most evil, his brother had taken. Odin had fallen into the Odinsleep unexpectedly, the toil of recent years a hard yoke despite the celebration at Thor's return to Asgard.
His father slept, and Thor now was empowered to stand in his place and decide the punishment of his brother. It was not a duty he looked upon fondly, but it was his duty, and carry it out he would. The wise mortal, Doctor Stephen Strange, had not witnessed Loki's actions directly, but reiterated the danger Loki posed to Earth. Thor had also taken counsel from the other Aesir, whose overwhelming opinion remained set that punishment should be both severe and a warning to others who might threaten the Nine Realms.
The Well of Urd was a place that replenished the youth of the kingdom, and its inhabitants... near it grew the grove of golden apples, and it was often the central location for feasts and celebrations among his people. Now, it was a place of solitude, where the heir to the throne had found some solitude from his people.
"If you are seeking greater wisdom, then you are at the wrong well," a strong, confident voice spoke from behind. Thor immediately recognized Balder, who was as close a friend as he ever had, and stood to greet him in an embrace. "Though I hear you may not be welcome in Jotunheim."
"Your jokes sting ever close to the truth of things, Balder," Thor replied, his smile fading to a serious expression. "I doubt Mimir would look kindly on a visit from the godling that destroyed the peace between us."
"The All-Father sacrificed his right eye for a drink at the well of wisdom. Maybe if you let them know in advance..."
"I shall have to find my answers here."
"Thine commiseration must need wait, Lord Thor Stormbringer, Balder the Brave," came the deep, rumbling voice of Heimdall, who approached swiftly. A flow of red cape caught in the wind behind him, a being of smaller stature following out of sight. "For the hour draws near for declarations and punishments." His dark skin and golden armor reflected off the waters, an older god whose own eyes and wisdom could not be dismissed - but Heimdall's stance on Loki was very clear: he did not in the least trust him. For the guardian who could see all things, this was a sobering realization to Thor.
"Heimdall, you did as I asked?"
"Verily, thy request is upheld and my duty met," he stepped aside to reveal Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch. She had asked Thor for the honor of visiting the Realm Eternal, but he'd also wished to grant it. It was important that she be here now. Heimdall took a few steps forward and looked into the well of youth, his eyes meeting Thor's in their reflection. "There is on Midgard a stanza of this place: 'By the well of Urd I silent sat, I saw and meditated, I listened to men's words.' Ultimately, the choice is yours, but stand by it and be not cowed by any other's displeasure, mine included. Thee will be King one day, and Asgard needs strength and resolve in the days ahead. Old Gods give way to New, and our role in the cosmos will be questioned ere long."
Heimdall turned, then paused, his head turned and voice low, "Before I return to mine post, let me impart one more thought, and another phrase from thine cherished Earth... 'Only Nixon could go to China.' Thee cannot ignore what thou hast wrought with the Jotuns forever."
Heimdall and Balder started to leave, but not before Balder, in his infinite charm, stopped to bow lightly before Wanda. "Lady Maximoff. It is a pleasure to meet you... while you are a guest of Asgard, I am at your every service." He smiled warmly, then marched off to catch up with Heimdall.
Thor smiled at her as well. "Wanda. I am pleased to see you."