We were separated the night before, just as with modern tradition, but while I was steaming away my “maiden status” in a Jacuzzi, Thor had to rob a grave. I'm not even kidding. Odin stuck a ceremonial sword in some old grave on Earth, and Thor had to go and fetch it; something about entering death as a boy and emerging a man. I was given a sword as well; to exchange with Thor during the ceremony.
My dress had been a simple, white sheath, but Odin lent me a wedding crown to wear that elevated my ensemble. Viking brides put more effort into their hair and its adornment than anything else on their wedding day. The wedding crown had been beautiful; gleaming silver leaves entwined around diamonds the size of quarters.
“The crown,” I whispered.
“What was that, darling?” Thor asked.
“Uh... I was just remembering our wedding day and that beautiful crown Odin let me borrow.”
“Sabine's crown,” Thor said; confirming my suspicions. “I was a little surprised that Dad let it out of his possession, even for a day.”
“Me too,” I murmured. Then I inhaled deeply to clear my head and focused back on him. “And you were so handsome in that red tunic; your hair flowing loose around your shoulders.”
“You outshone me,” Thor said softly as he took my hand. “As always. Seeing you walk to me with that sword in your hands was one of the best moments of my life.”
“Vikings.” I shook my head. “Exchanging swords to seal a marriage.”
“And rings,” he said chidingly.
“Offered on the hilts of those swords,” I pointed out.
“And then I claimed my bride and carried her into Valhalla,” he declared grandly.
“Where you promptly stuck your new sword in the ceiling,” I added.
“Well, I couldn't use the one I'd given you; that will belong to our son someday.”
“I know,” I whispered fondly. “Someday. And damn, if you didn't drive that sword in all the way to the hilt. It's a good thing there wasn't anyone in the room above you.”
“I had to.” Thor paused to kiss me. “The depth of the strike symbolized how enduring our relationship would be.”
“Then we should last forever,” I said gently.
“I intend for us to.” Thor took my face in his hands and kissed me.
It was sweet and romantic, but I suddenly felt uneasy. I pressed closer and started undressing him.
“Vervain,” Thor whispered as he pulled back. “Thereissomething wrong.”
“A lot has happened today.” I stroked his cheek tenderly. “I took the lion magic in order to save the Intare.”
“You what?” He gaped at me. “I told you that your body may not be able to handle so much magic! You could have killed yourself.”
“I know, but I had to save them,” I said. “She was torturing them, Thor.”
Thor took a deep, calming breath.
“I survived, and I feel great,” I pointed out.
He lifted a brow at me.
“And a little lightheaded,” I added. “I need you to help me feel grounded again.”
“I can't do that, darling,” Thor said as he started to slide my shirt up.
“Why not?” I gaped at him as I lifted my arms automatically.
Thor tossed my shirt aside and yanked me close. “I'm the God of Sea and Storms; I can't ground you, but I can love you with a savagery that will make you forget you ever longed for the shore.”
