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The black, long-sleeve bolero with delicate appliques adorning the bust and gradually up to the neck is next before I can move on to the skirt. Black tulle with identical appliques decorating the bottom and traveling up toward the waist make up the outer layer of the skirt. The innermost layer is made of silk that perfectly matches the color of the corset. Two layers of plain black tulle fill the middle, making the teal appear to be darker than it actually is. A thigh-high slit in all four layers completes the look.

As soon as I zip up the side of the skirt, I begin adding the finishing touch. My jewelry set is made up of black diamonds, teal sapphires, and green garnets. As I fix the crown carefully on my head and begin putting on the earrings and necklace, I let my mind wander.

That morning, I’d woken up beaming. I was so excited to feel like I belonged somewhere, to finally have a true home. After Min Þormundr had killed Odin, he became the new All-Father. I chose this name because he was and always will be my protector. Tonight’s ceremony is going to solidify both our places in The Society.

A car horn interrupts my thoughts as I step towards the billowing sheers and look down at the vehicle waiting for me. I hold my finger up, silently asking him to give me a moment. After making sure I’m finished, I hurry down the stairs to my chaperone.

“Wow, Nova. You look beautiful.” Mimir has been waiting in the front doorway with his hands clasped behind his back. His black tuxedo is paired with a green tie and a teal rose.

“Thank you, Mimir.” I smile genuinely.

“Loki’s a lucky guy. Come on, let’s get you two married.” He offers me his arm to escort me to the black limo.

As we pull into the parking lot of The Society’s hall, I can’t help but think about how lucky I am. I’m about to get married to the leader of The Society, who just so happens to be the love of my life.

The walkway into the ‘longhouse’ has been sprinkled with black rose petals and hawthorn, emitting a wonderful scent that simultaneously turns me on and calms me down.

My breath hitches in my throat as I step into the ceremony room. There are gorgeous fabrics of blacks, blues, and greens mixed with twinkly lights that drape from the center of the ceiling down and out towards the walls. The colors remind me of the Northern Lights. Dozens of braziers glow with flames a few feet in front of the walls, placed strategically to prevent a fire hazard.

A sizable group has already gathered by the time I arrive. All around are members of The Society adorned in their finest attire. This isn't just our wedding– this is my initiation and our coronation.

I’m ready. Ready to become Loki’s wife, ready to become a member of The Society, ready to take back my life. My past with Tyr feels like it was long ago, even if less than a year has passed altogether.

I want this.

I need this.

I deserve this.

I’m pulled from my thoughts when I spot Loki standing at the altar. He’s in a black suit with a teal and green boutonnière in his breast pocket. It matches my dress perfectly. My gaze moves up his body slowly, taking in every inch of the man I love. I notice his hair has been fashioned into Nordic braids and adorned with runic beads. In his tattooed hands, he holds a pelt that awaits my presence.

When we make eye contact, I notice his chiseled jaw tighten. He must be holding back the urge to do something dirty. I’ll get naked later– he can wait.

Loki smiles as I walk up, standing next to him. “Nova, Min Myrkr Stjärna, we have chosen a name for you. In order to receive it, you shall drink from our sacrifice, and we will take your blood as name payment,” Loki speaks towards me, his voice echoing in the silence that fills the room.

Taking the offering bowl that’s filled with blood, I tilt it to my lips. I purposely let the liquid spill down the front of my body, painting myself in the blood of the Gods. I swallow a few mouthfuls before finishing.

“Nova, you will now and forever be known as Hel– Goddess of Helheim. You will stand beside me and help me for eternity. Do you agree with the name chosen?” He looks at me with hopeful eyes.

I fiddle with the metal paper crane pendant that hangs between my breasts below the statement necklace that matches the rest of my jewelry set. Loki gave it to me after I was released from the hospital.

I haven’t taken it off since and I never will.

Even when I die.

“Yes, I do.”


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