15425/ASGARD ASCENDANT: The Ambassador

ASGARD ASCENDANT: The Ambassador
Date of Scene:	01 August 2023
Location:	Palace - Asgard
Synopsis:	A dark elf ambassador comes to Odin's Court and gets yelled at by Brunny.
Cast of Characters:	Thor, Brunnhilde, Sif, Vintridr

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Thor has posed:
    Since the end of the war with the Svartalfar there had been celebration. The streets had been alive for the first several weeks, for the war had been long and cold as the Winter, but in the end it blazed with life until its undoing. The end was brought on with Malekith's death and Asgard finally knew what it was to have a true peace.
    There had been wild celebrations, feasts were had, drinks were poured, and through it all a new life could be seen in the streets of the Golden City and the realm beyond. It was a rush of indulgence, yet through it all there was a hint of trepidation. For the future now was a thing in flux. The collective breath of the people was held for it was unsure how the path of history would unfold, and where Asgard would find itself as matters shook out.
    Which led to this day in the same year some six months later. Odin had risen from his sleep, court was held though often in his absence. In his stead at times one brother or another would preside. Often standing beside the golden throne, or one step down upon the dais. Matters were brought forth, issues dealt with, only rarely was Odin brought forth.
    Which is why on this day Thor held stead for the now. Though he did not look pleased. Oh he did not look openly bored or annoyed as he would have in the old days of his youth. Yet one could see the way his one-eyed gaze drifted over the court while small matters were decided. Sometimes one of the wizened Asgardians of the council would look up and seek his agreement. Often he would give it with a nod or a hand gesture.
    Today, however, matters were interrupted. When a guard broke over the discussion.
    "And so, I feel it would be best for us to make sure that the mining rights for the land in question go to those who supported our efforts in Alfheim. 'Tis only fair their sacrifice reap some reward..." The elder Asgardian spoke eloquently as he advanced his case.
    Which is when the guard broke in, standing between the two guards at the main doors and speaking for some reason over the major domo who seemed to be objecting, "My lords, I am bidden to announce an Ambassador!"

Brunnhilde has posed:
Some things never change.

It had been perhaps a few centuries since Brunnhilde had been in one of these gatherings, and normally always presided by Odin himself. Today it was Thor but then again he was striking quite the figure looking similar to his father. What with only having one eye and so. Hilde looked none too pleased though because there was no love lost between her and Odin. And if Thor was turning into Odin? Well, that means the hostility would need to pass onto his son by Hilde-logic. And oh look, they are talking about mining rights. Good grief, how do they not fall asleep?

Which of course Hilde finds it in herself to lean closer to Sif to ask just that, "How do you not you fall asleep on these?" It's whispered, but so many people with sharp senses. Who knows who will listen? Not that she minds, she had fallen asleep in past meetings but then ..., a new challenger enters the fray. Or in this case a messenger.

And an Ambassador? Now this could turn interesting. She grins wolf-like.

Sif has posed:
"You presume I am awake?"

The response was whispered just as low but thankfully the murmur going through the court at the announcement of an unscheduled ambassador had people abuzz as they theorized who it might be. Sif glanced over at Hilde with a grin that mirrored that of her friend. "A skilled warrior can sleep with their eyes open, ever aware of danger that might lurk in the shadows."

And she managed to Not chuckle, making her very proud of herself. Though she had rumors of such things, she had never actually seen it in person. Even after all these years.

She found herself looking toward the doors then to Thor, gauging his reaction.

Vintridr has posed:
    Vintridr's opinion of Odin Glad-Of-War may be mixed, but Asgard is still where her roots are, and a celebration of war's end is not one she'd miss. She's seated with the other Valkyrior, and can't keep from a smirk at Sif's comment. She opens her mouth to contribute her own jest to the thread spun, but - much like everyone else at the table - her head twitches to look at the commotion at the entrance the moment she hears a voice is raised. Some instincts die hard.

    "Not just an ambassador, but one who wasn't invited yet feels they should have been. Who might this be?"

Thor has posed:
    As for Thor he had indeed become all the more attentive, his manner and features curiously similar to Brunnhilde and Sif's for he too was using that old soldier's trick. The steady gaze at a distance and then letting one's gaze to relax... and embracing that subtly more restful state. But now he rested a hand on the arm of the throne, Gungnir standing behind it like some grim reminder of the strength behind that seat of power. His brow knit together as he lifted a hand to gesture at the guardsman.
    "Speak," he said simply.
    The guardsman, his features stern as he pulled at his arm which had been grasped partially by one of the others on duty at the door. He turned, "Your highness, Prince Thor. Bide but a moment."
    With that the guardsman turned and through the grand archway he went. True to his word it was but a moment before through that way he reemerged this time with a tall thin figure in white armor and a curved narrow-bladed sword at his side. A grey and tan cloak curved around his shoulders, framing the full helm that had a raven resplendent as its crest.
    Once entered the figure advanced and then knelt precisely at the twelfth pace mark where foreign dignitaries were shown to. It bowed, then removed the helm to reveal a pale elvish face of indistinct gender. They rose at the gesture from Thor.
    The figure was then announced by the impertinent guardsman who made several of the courtly councilors quite displeased. "This is the former Baron of Ravenshome, V'ren^^^Taal Virren V'ren. Formerly General in the forces of Svartalfar."
    Which caused some small murmur within the court.

Brunnhilde has posed:
"You only say that because you don't snore like I do." Hilde. Known for her powerful snore. And even if she does snort amusedly her attention is swiftly taken to the entrance hallway from where supposedly the Ambassador will walk in from.

"I have this wild guess ..." Hilde is telling Vin before a pause as the elvish one comes making way inside and she snorts again, "Figured." she does adjust Dragonfang on it's sheath, hand casually resting on it once the Ambassador walks closed and drops to a knee on that specific place meant for them. For all that Hilde slept through these meetings she knew exactly where they were supposed to stand. One inch further? Dragonfang would had tasted elven blood.

"A General? We have some cells ready for those that actively participated in the war against Asgard.", she smiles, teeth showing. "Are you here to turn yourself in?" Yes, Hilde is playing the bad cop in this equation.

Sif has posed:
Did that mean she expected one of them to be the good cop? Not likely in this particular crowd of friends.

Sif had turned to track the visitor, noting the weapon they carried and they way they moved. But when they were revealed to be a member of their former, though recently defeated, enemies, Sif stood taller. She shifted her position, spacing herself a little further and making sure she was at the front of the crowd instead of others nobles having a spot in front of her to hide her boredom. No hand to her weapon but she was ready should it become necessary.

This was far more interesting than mining rights.

Vintridr has posed:
    Vintridr does not tense. She does not go still. She very definitely does not shift ever so slightly in her seat to ascertain herself of the presence of her weapons.

    And she absolutely does not exchange a quick glance with the rest of the Valkyrior to ensure that her kin are likewise very definitely not doing so.

    Of course, the 'general' would have to be an utter fool to attempt to start something in this place and at this time... But treachery was ever the Svartalfr way. Anything might happen.

Thor has posed:
    "Prince Thor," The new arrival said with a rich voice that seemed... practiced. For even with the gift of All-Speech one could tell their precision and diction is being focused upon. The Baron speaks slowly, deliberately, watching ahead with strong attention.
    "It pleases me to be the first of the Svartalfar to speak in these halls in fourteen hundred years. It pleases me to bring glad tidings. For I am come with wishes of peace. Between our people. We would have no more war. We have paid a great price. Shed so much blood. We would have no more of it. Tell us what we must do to regain the trust of Asgard, and for her to lower her sword of war."
    As this dark elf spoke, Thor watched. His gaze flicked over briefly toward where Sif, Vin, and Brunnhilde sat, perhaps gauging their reaction. Brunnhilde's snarl and threat was not the only one murmured in the hall, for it was clear the arrival of this figure was not well met. Other threats and some not as kindly phrased were heard.
    Thor looked back and then says in a carefully moderated tone. "I would wish it be so that I could take satisfaction in your pleasure at these accomplishments. Baron." That last word is said in a tone that is flat. As if he too were putting his words through some sort of mental filter.
    A pause that hangs longer than one might expect. A period of five heartbeats before Thor speaks again.
    "You. Speak for all your people?"
    The Svartalfar responds. "I speak for my people. We hold Svartalfar though there are recalcitrant souls that we contest with. Warriors uncomfortable with their freedom now that Malekith is gone. Old houses with ancient rivalries. I represent the majority of my people. And we would ask Asgard's aid in bringing our realm peace."
    Which caused Thor's good eye to narrow.

Brunnhilde has posed:
"You mean war bands of dark elves that belonged to Malekith and now roam freely through your lands killing and destroying it because you weren't strong enough to fight Malekith from the start." Hilde putting it as she sees it. Direct and without filters. She snorts again. "I don't recall your people coming here to help in the fight, not even a cadre of well-intentioned rebels willing to face off against Malekith's tyranny."

"And now you come here for peace. Ah!" The valkyrie folds her arms together and just as it seems she might continue with her tirade against this General she adds, "You are bold. I like it." a solemn nod given.

Sif has posed:
Sif holds her tongue. Not that she wants to but Hilde seems to have access to Sif's brain and thus is speaking the words she might. Although Sif would like to think she'd be a tad more diplomatic about it. After all, her parents would expect nothing less after hammering those lesses into her.

Though there is one thing that wasn't asked and she feels like she really needs to add it so there is a single question added in a low tone. And her words are to the Prince, not to the Ambassador.

"A majority can be as small as 51%. I would want to be certain of their number."

Vintridr has posed:
    Vin scowls, but holds her peace for now. Adding her own voice to the accusations would accomplish little. If it's to be violence, she'll be ready - but as long as the intent is otherwise, she'll not ruin its chances.

Thor has posed:
    The heroes can tell that some of their words register with the ambassador as their features tighten subtly when Brunnhilde murmurs that challenge about their lack of aid for when Asgard fought. Yet the dignitary holds their tongue and does not rise to the bait or engage. Instead their eyes are fully focused ahead, focused upon the stern visage of the man called Thor.
    Which is when the Prince's attention slips to the side toward the more vocal Valkyrie yet he keeps his features controlled and settled. He looks back toward the Dark Elf and turns his head slightly. "Perhaps it is best we send someone to rouse Odin."
    Which is the moment when a louder voice is heard.
    "There is no need to rouse Odin, when Odin is here."
    From the side entryway, that others who have lived and worked in these environs know leads to the library beyond, emerges Odin. Not the Golden Armor, nor the helm worn. But wearing the brown and tan and black of travel garb that clearly has seen some use, and a simple straw hat on his brow. Yet he hesitates not to take up Gungnir in his hand, the ancient spear gleaming to life as it recognizes its master. He steps forward to stand on the opposite side of the throne as Thor...
    Who lowers his head. "Father."

Brunnhilde has posed:
"Don't give me that look. You know I speak the truth." The valkyrie's blue gaze directly on the dark elf general. Almost as if challenging her back to bite at her words. Not that she does so there's only a bit of a smirk. Though for Hilde it's important to know if this Ambassador is for real or not, which is why she is here. Or at least until Odin makes his presence known..

Gaze shifts immediately to him, watching the old bear through squinted eyes but she also quiets down and steps back from her accusations towards the dark elf, silent but still with her arms folded. Challenging.

Head dips just so in a respectful manner towards Odin.

Sif has posed:
At the appearance of Odin, Sif's posture changes. More alert. More attentive. She even shifts her stance to move a step closer so that should this enemy dare try to attack the King, she'll be there to intercept.

Which is kind of silly considering Odin and Thor, both with weapons at hand, were more than capable of handling themselves. Unlike the valkyrior present, she did not have any negative feelings toward Odin thus perhaps simplifying this moment for her.

She rested her wrist atop the handle of her sword, allowing her hand to hang down. An almost casual posture other than the fact it would draw the eye to that weapon. So more a quiet warning.

Vintridr has posed:
    Vintridr doesn't quite wince at the announcement, and looks at the source of the voice. Odin. All-Father. Glad-of-War. The one she swore to serve -- and the reason she left Asgard.

    Still, to leave now would be impolitic... And while she may have left, she's still sworn to protect Asgard.

Thor has posed:
    When the King emerges many others do as Brunnhilde. Others lower their eyes. Others bow. Then he speaks.
    "What troubles my court and council that I am to be so summoned." Odin's lip twists slightly as he slowly settles into his throne. He eases back and down, grumbling faintly to himself as he then rests the shaft of Gungnir across his knees, one hand beneath, the other above. He looks at first to Thor, then to those now quiet older warriors. He quirks an eyebrow then looks to the elf standing there in the white armor.
    "Father, this is Taal Virren, new leader of... a faction of the Svartalfar. He has come to..."
    Only for Thor's words to be cut off. "What?"
    Odin's voice is stern, "Asgard does not treat with..." He turns his head and once again looks upon the Dark Elf emissary. "Bandits, and robber knights. We do not hold court and back one war-chief over another. Down that path lies mire and horror. And I will not subject my people to it."
    The would-be Ambassador frowns for the briefest of moments but keeps his face otherwise emotionless as he listens to these words. But when Odin turns his attention upon the elf, one can see the struggle they go through to maintain their control.
    "You, noble of the dark. You sat still and reaped what benefits you could as one stronger than you led. Now like rapine vermin you emerge to seize what power you can in the chaos. You will have no aid from us. You wish peace. You wish to know safety for the horrors you and yours have committed?"
    Odin straightens up in the throne, Gungnir rising and the golden end of it clinking softly as he sets the butt end down by his boot. "Then I have one thing to say to you. Emissary."
    Gungnir lowers, pointing at the Dark Elf, and Odin says with a sharp tone with that touch of anger that seems ever on the edge of his voice. "Put your house in order."
    Then Odin rises, putting his weight on the ancient Uru weapon. The court again lower their eyes. He points at Thor.
    "Give this one Guest Rite, we are not barbarians. But send them on their way before I see another fortnight." He moves to depart.

Brunnhilde has posed:
Hilde feels that brashly announcing 'that's what I was saying!' after Odin's words might be a bit too on the nose but the former commander of the Valkyrie does nod her head in agreement with the decision taken. Perhaps for the first time in a millenia that they agree! But then she frowns.

Agreeing with Odin?

She looks at the others, then at the dark elf noble, thoughtful. "Seems you are all out of luck." she tells Taal when Odin excuses himself. "Or do you have something more to add that may turn things your way?" see? She is giving him a chance. Also because she doesn't want to make it a habit to agree with Odin all the time now.

Sif has posed:
And that was that.

In Sif's mind, there was no chance of them ever assisting the Dark Elves. Particularly after that being the order from Odin. They would never put their house in order for they were always too busy infighting. It was silly to think it might even be possible.

If they were any other peoples, she might have felt a twinge of sympathy for them. But not these. Never these.

Thor has posed:
    As Odin departs, Thor waits for him to leave the chamber. Voices are a touch more subdued until he's gone, and even some time after. The murmur in the room is not as strong, but people are definitely talking. While Brunnhilde's own stern words for the emissary registers with them. The baron turns their head and looks at her, but there's no challenge in those eyes. At least at the moment.
    With that pumed helmet under their arm, the Svartalfar warrior looks toward Thor as the man descends from the dais, stepping forward.
    "Prince Thor. I give you thanks for the granting of guest rite." The armored elf again spares a glance to the side toward Brunnhilde, but also noting Sif. "Will I be allowed to seek aid for my cause amongst the people of Asgard? For there are others who do not look unkindly upon my cause."
    As if on cue that guardsman who had barged in initially, he takes up a place at the Dark Elf's side, though he remains silent as they look at Thor expectantly.
    The Thunderer, however, is not forthcoming.
    To one of the other guards he says, "See that the traveler is given quarters in the East Wing." He turns back. "We shall break bread, share salt. Then we shall have some words. Though you come at a poor time, elf. My mood mislikes me. And I feel uncharitable to your cause."
    At Thor's behest two of the guards move up to escort the Dark Elf. The young guard is about to depart when Thor says, "Boy."
    The guard turns, "My prince," He bows and goes to one knee.
    Thor shakes his head slightly, and not caring at all that the Svartalfar is there he says, "Remember where your allegiance lies, and be aware of what dark deeds caused this war. The reputation of the Svartalfar for deception is not one unearned, and this war has waged long since before you were born."
    "Yes, my prince." The young Asgardian retreats and soon enough he is off as the guards show the ambassador on his way.
    Which leaves the court convening with itself, and Thor looking to his friends with his eyebrows raised and a deep breath taken... then exhaled sloooowly as if exasperated.

Brunnhilde has posed:
The exchange between the Asgardian lad, Thor and the Baron gets a raised brow out of Hilde. Not that she interferes with -that-. Not yet at least, she simply watching the Baron scurry away with his newfound ally. "Things certainly have changed since my times here." she notes. "Though I suppose that young buck feels he can get his battle fame from helping these dark elves. No idea why else he'd side with them.."

Her musings lead her to look thoughtful, then glance at Vin, Sif and Thor as they sort of convene together, "You know what irks me? Is that we got no way to know whether this guy is telling the truth or not. He might be sided with those war bands for all we know..." she frowns at this. "And if they regain power it may mean war again."

See? Hilde isn't just a dumb fighter.

Sif has posed:
As the guard got his dressing down, Sif was frowning a bit. She followed the path of the guard as he left. Which said something that he got more attention than the Dark Elf Ambassador. Youth equalled stupidity. Were they ever that stupid?

Thankfully there were no telepaths nearby who might answer that yes, indeed, they had been that stupid before. Perhaps even moreso.

She turned her head back to look at Thor, noting the slow sigh and raised eyebrows. The corners of her lips dipped own and she gave a shake of her head, as if unable to give any sort of assistance in understanding this.

Thor has posed:
    As Brunnhilde speaks, Thor's lip curves up a little as he looks at her. He then gives a nod, "Indeed." The Thunderer rests his hands on his hips. "It strikes me almost as if it is a thing that perhaps should have someone looking into it. Perhaps someone with a suitable amount of curiousity and wit who would so succinctly come to this realization."
    A glance is given toward Sif and Vintridr, then he looks back to Brunnhilde still smiling.
    "Mayhap you weren't volunteering were you?" He asks that as he looks after in the direction of the emissary and the young guardsman. "I likely will be forced to remain here at court. But..."
    A look back, "You three have no such obligations..."

Brunnhilde has posed:
"Did you just ...."

Hilde's demeanor is one of suspicion, eyeing Thor as he speaks those words as if he was trying to be cunning. "You know, the earthlings have this word for what you are doing..." a pause, perhaps for drama? No, she is trying to remember it. "To be voluntold. Which is pretty much someone volunteering others to do something." her expression downright unfriendly at Thor. "I swear, you are looking like Odin more and more."

A look to the others, "But you are also sort of right. This should be looked into." she looks to see if the other agree.

Sif has posed:
"Voluntold." Sif considers the word, pursing her lips a moment after saying it. Then a vigorous shake of her head to the negative. "No. I do not like this word. It should not be used in Asgardian society. Ever." A pointed look is given to Thor but she too agrees that it is probably important.

"He does not understand how much blood has been shed. Perhaps we can find a way to help him comprehend before he goes sympathizing with the enemy." A little shrug of her shoulders. "Or at least some observation. I would also suggest we have eyes on the Ambassador at all times that he might be whispering venom to other such impressionable youths."

Thor has posed:
    As for Thor he's just smiling a little, his good eye dancing with a hint of mirth as he meets Brunnhilde's gaze. He then turns and looks toward Sif. The topic shifts over to the young Asgardian and he turns his head in that direction once again. Shaking it slightly he folds his arms over his broad chest, taking another deep breath.
    "One cannot simply tell him, he will have to see that the world is not entirely as he imagines it may be. I just hope the lesson will not be a harsh one."
    That said he turns back to face them and takes a deep breath. "I trust you both will be joining me at dinner?" He quirks the eyebrow above his patch, his expression curious albeit a little doubtful. "I would find your perspective on our guest a welcome thing."
    Then his lip curves up slightly, "However I understand if you wish to make ready for your long journey."

Sif has posed:
"Sup with a Svartalf or go on a long journey."

Sif narrowed her eyes at Thor then smirked despite herself. "You are learning too quickly. You were normally more let's go smash things. I am not sure yet I like it since we," Sif paused to glance at her fellow warriors then back to Thor. "Are not being given much of an actual choice here. And while my blade would enjoy visiting our old enemies once more, I realize we are trying to not begin hostilities again." Pointed look at Hilde to be sure she got that message.

"Thus, dinner sounds wonderful. Thank you so much for the invitation."