Prince's Mate

Prologue - 1

"A long, long time ago, before the nine realms were new, there was nothing but the chasm Ginnungagap," Frigga read out of the book on her lap. Loki sat on the couch cuddled up next to her, reading silently along with her and looking at the illustrations in the book. He had barely started puberty, and while in public, he pretended to be too dark and broody, too big and strong, to cuddle his mama anymore, the truth was that he savored every moment he spent with her, studied magic with her. She was the only one he knew truly loved him and appreciated him for who he was.

Loki was a thin, gangly youth. He didn't have a typical Asgardian's strength or build. He was better with magic than he was with a sword. His black hair was kept cut short, his green eyes always alight with mischief and plotting, his skin pale from time spent inside with his books instead of outside romping around with the others his age, or whatever it was that ended up with Thor constantly covered in dirt and mud and injuries.

"The chasm was bounded on one side by fire from the world of Muspelheim and ice from the world of Niflheim. In the place where fire and ice met, a giant was formed by the name of Ymir. Upon his death, Yggdrasil grew from his body, the nine realms created nestled in its branches," Frigga continued to read. Her voice held a perfect storyteller's quality, honed by centuries of telling stories to her children, teaching them with her love and kindness. Loki listened with rapt attention, he loved all stories, even ones like this that he had heard a million times. Frigga was reading it again for a reason. The meaning would become important to her baby very, very soon.

"As Yggdrasil grew, all that we know came into being, the universe organizing itself. Asgardians, Elves, Dragons, Felis, Kitsune, Jotnar, even humans were all created in Yggdrasil's growth. As they did, they were all put into order as well: Alphas created to lead, to protect and defend their people, Betas to follow to live and thrive and grow, and Omegas to care for the hearts of the people, and so it remains, even today," Frigga stopped reading then, which was the time for Loki to perk his interest and take in what the real lesson was. Her next words would be why she was bringing up this story now. "All roles are equally important. Alphas and Omegas get all the attention, but Betas are important as well. If you have too many leaders, nothing gets done, but too many followers and there is no one to take charge when it is necessary," Frigga explained gently to her son.

Loki sat up and picked at his hands, nervous. He knew he would be presenting soon.

The nature of children was fluid, ever changing. Guesses could be made as to what caste a child would grow into, but there was no telling for sure until they presented. The first presentation came during puberty, along with all of the other changes, a child's psychic scent would also change, indicating their caste. The final presentation came for Alphas and Omegas when they hit maturity and their first rut or heat, when they were able to choose a mate.

"And Omegas?" Loki asked softly, glancing up at his mama, at the beautiful jeweled necklace she wore around her neck. Despite its beauty, it was still an Omega's collar and not the necklace it appeared.

Loki couldn't speak his fear, not even to his beloved mama. His father's expectations were clear, though: he expected both of his sons to present as Alphas, to be strong warriors and leaders for the realm.

He would accept nothing less.

Frigga cuddled him close and kissed his hair. "Omegas are loved and cherished. They are a calming presence, caring for the feelings of those around them, especially the Alpha who they mate with. They balance an Alpha's temper and protective nature," Frigga said warmly, trying to soothe his worries.

She knew that every youth was nervous before they presented, wondering what the future held for them. Baldur and Hodur had gone through it. Thor had just recently gone through it. They had all presented as Alphas.

Loki's turn would be soon and the weight of the future rested heavily on his young shoulders.