As the sun dipped below the celestial horizon, casting a warm golden glow upon the fully repaired Asgard, the grandeur of the Asgardian Palace took center stage. Tonight, it was adorned for a celebration.
The Great Hall of the palace, a place that had witnessed historic events and regal declarations, was transformed into a resplendent venue for Odin's Grand Ceremony. A cascade of banners bearing the emblem of Asgard adorned the walls, and ethereal lights illuminated the grandeur of the space.
The last time such a grand festivity had taken place was when Odin had announced Thor's ascension to the throne, a few years ago, just before Thor's exile. Now, the hall echoed with anticipation, ready to host a celebration that would surpass even the grandeur of past events.
This time, Odin's vision for the Grand Ceremony was twofold. It not only celebrated Asgard's resounding victory over the Dark Elves but also aimed to showcase Asgard's power and prestige to the Nine Realms. The presence of ambassadors from distant realms added an air of cosmic significance to the occasion.
As the guests gathered in their regal attire, the air buzzed with excitement and a sense of unity among the Asgardians. The Grand Ceremony was a spectacle that promised to elevate Sigurd's prestige to new heights, solidifying his place as the future King of Asgard.
The hall, resounding with celestial melodies and the clinking of golden chalices, awaited Odin's proclamation. Odin, seated on his regal throne, began the momentous task of acknowledging and rewarding the valiant heroes who had stood against the Dark Elves.
"First, I want to acknowledge Loki's achievements," Odin declared with a tone of sincerity that held the attention of all present. "In the dire times of the Dark Elves' attack, he fought with unwavering courage. Therefore, he is hereby absolved of all charges for which he was convicted."
The announcement hung in the air, leaving many in the hall puzzled. However, Loki, standing among the assembly, wore a triumphant smile. His meritorious deeds had earned him not only freedom from charges but also a place of honor in the eyes of Asgardian.
"Second, Volstagg, Hogun, and Fandral will also receive the Guardian of Light Medal," Odin continued, shocking the assembled guests. The highest honor bestowed by Asgard to a war hero, marked by a golden sword and a silver badge, was now set to adorn the valiant trio. This distinction granted them the privilege to pass through the gates of the Nine Realms unimpeded.
As murmurs of surprise and approval rippled through the hall, Odin proceeded to the third and most impactful announcement. "For the third news, it is with some sadness that I must become firm. This concerns my son, Thor." The air intensified as Odin addressed his heir.
"While he has achieved the defeat of the Dark Elves and the salvation of the Nine Realms, and has restored balance in many places, he remains responsible for all the problems that have arisen in Asgard."
A hushed silence fell over the hall as Odin's words hung in the air. The unexpected turn of events left the audience in a state of shock. However, Odin, true to his role as a father, continued, "Nevertheless, he is my son, and I cannot send him to prison. His demerit is that he will be banished to Midgard, alongside his Midgardian woman."
Thor, though surprised, felt a contentment settle within him. The banishment was not just a punishment; it was an understanding of what he truly desired to spend time with Jane. After all, a father is still a father.
Odin also bestowed some Guardian of Light Medals to Ethan and Maria for honoring their valiant efforts in defeating many Dark Elves, as they were Ben's son and daughter. Ben, however, didn't seek the spotlight and had no need for recognition because his capabilities were evident to all. Odin turned his attention to the unsung hero who had played a significant role in Svartalfheim.
"Next, I want to introduce someone who deserves more honor than anyone else during the Dark Elves Invasion! He played a significant role in defeating the Dark Elves in Svartalfheim!" Odin's voice carried a charismatic resonance as he lifted little Sigurd high in his hands. The Great Hall, filled with Asgardians and distinguished guests, fell into a hushed silence as all eyes turned to the toddler in Odin's embrace.
Sigurd didn't fully grasp what was happening but giggled in his grandfather's embrace. Most people didn't know the extent of the achievements of the future King of Asgard, who, at the tender age of two, had played a pivotal role in slaying Malekith.
"Now, I present to you Sigurd Tennyson," Odin proclaimed with pride, "The son of Ben Tennyson, a brave man from Midgard, and Sif Tennyson, a valiant warrior from Asgard. She is like a daughter to me. He is my grandson, still a baby, yet he wields the power of fire in one hand and the power of ice in the other."
The grand proclamation stirred a murmur of astonishment through the hall. A wave of confusion swept over the assembly as many hadn't been privy to the extraordinary feats of the young Sigurd. Odin continued, "With these powers, he defeated Malekith and safeguarded the Nine Realms from all future dangers posed by him."
Odin's praise echoed through the hall, and as the citizens of Asgard absorbed the revelation, a swell of admiration and awe for the youngest hero in their midst filled the grand chamber. The legacy of the Tennyson lineage, now intertwined with Asgard's fate, stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of heroes across realms.
With the resounding recognition bestowed upon Sigurd, there seemed to be no obstacle hindering the young prince from attaining the prestige Odin envisioned for him. This acknowledgment echoed the ancient traditions of Asgard, where warriors who triumphed over formidable adversaries were elevated to legendary status—a legacy that Odin himself had inherited from his father, Bor.
"He is a living miracle and the future King of Asgard," Odin proclaimed with a sense of fulfillment. "His name will be written in golden letters in the annals of Asgard's history, with a special mention of how he slew Malekith at the tender age of two years."
As Odin continued to shower his grandson Sigurd Tennyson with praise, the Great Hall echoed with the cheers and applause of the people of Asgard. The delight and admiration for the young hero were palpable, and Sigurd, playing with Odin's beard and giggling, became the embodiment of Asgard's hope and resilience.
The ceremony unfolded smoothly, each moment etching Sigurd's accomplishments into the cosmic tapestry of Asgard's legacy. As the people celebrated, Odin's plan became evident—to showcase to Asgard that Sigurd possessed the potential to be the next King of Asgard.
With the grand ceremonies concluded, the denizens of Asgard, invigorated by the triumphs and celebrations, returned to their tasks. The repairs and cosmic responsibilities that lay ahead couldn't be overshadowed by the revelry, but the echoes of Sigurd's heroic tale lingered, weaving a narrative of hope, strength, and the cosmic destiny of Asgard.
As night fell, Thor and Jane retreated to their room, since their passions ignited, they needed to calm it by doing physical activities with each other. Ethan and Maria went to another room, understanding that their father needed some private time. Frigga took Sigurd with her, leaving Ben and Sif to share some intimate moments together.