Distorted Beauty {Pure Illusion Series: Book 4}

Chapter 17

A/N: It's hard to believe that we are nearly at the end of this book. By far, this book has been the hardest to write for numerous reasons: time constraints and the amount of characters to juggle. I'm again not over all pleased with much of the writing for this book and and the third book. Editing will take place for all of the books once the series is complete... Which just to let you all know, I have an ending in mind but it literally can go one of two ways, it's your reactions and thoughts that are influencing that final decision, but we still have another book to get through!

We're back on Asgard, which was hard for me to write because writing them on Midgard is more difficult but it was also a lot of fun. I just loved writing these last few chapters - I've been dying to get them done since I started book 4. As always my lovelies, enjoy!

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The landing was just as rough as the journey to Asgard.

Along the way, she could have sworn she had come close to loosing the contents of stomach several times. It was strange the moment she landed, though Loki ensured her everything would be fine as he called for a horse to be brought for him and Sigyn. The evening sky seemed strangely brighter, but perhaps that was because in Midgard, the stars were hidden by the city lights.

The gentle tug of Loki's hand reminded her that she would have time later to dwell on the stars. Sleipnir greeted them with a snort and nuzzled the blonde girl's hand. His coat shown just like the evening sky, it was no wonder it was Odin's choice mount, even if he was Loki's son. Mounting the stallion, Loki pulled her up behind him, waisting no time to urge the horse into a light trot. Looking down at the rainbow bridge, she could see the shimmers rushing by and the sounds of his hooves striking the bridge with each step. Oh how she longed to feel the shimmering light under her own feet again.

Upon approaching the front gates, a guard was there to take Sleipnir back to the stable and another four guards were there ready to accompany them to the All-Father. It truly wasn't a surprise as it was obvious that the imprisonment and apparent abandoning had been intentional to drive the pair from each other. Foolish Odin, he had only strengthened their bond.

Falling in step with her beloved, Sigyn had to take at least three steps for every one step Loki took. His strides were grand, that of a great king while she felt like a chamber maiden next to him. She could tell by the way he moved that he was agitated and yet proud. Pushing these thoughts aside, she heard Thor's voice outside the massive palace doors.

"We are to be wed in two days time." Thor declared, his gaze not moving from the All-Father.

The father and son were in a deadlock for vision, until the King's gaze shifted to Loki and Sigyn when they entered, full of disgust. It was as if they were putrid creatures of Hel with decaying flesh. The goddess began to wonder if he had looked in the mirror lately.

"You my son are ready to lead a nation, but this mortal..." Odin replied, turning his attention away from his damned son and worthless whore.

"... Is ready to accept the crown." Thor retorted, irritated with his father. "Loki and Lady Sigyn are to be wed soon, if you do wish to give them the crown instead."

Odin's mouth drew in a tight line, his single eye looking back and forth between his two sons. Raising the scepter he looked at the two couples. He knew what his son was doing, pitting his hatred of Loki against his hatred of Jane. Of course he hated Loki more; Thor had won.

"Thor Odinson and Lady Jane Foster, you have my blessings." The end of the scepter rang out as it slammed onto the floor. Looking to the Liesmith and his bride to be, he let his upper lip twitch in irritation. "You have not yet declared your marriage; as if you should be so lucky to be blessed by Valhalla."