Breakfast Talks

That night, Loki could not sleep. He was consumed by jealousy over his father treating his elder brother better. Deep down, he had always longed to defeat his brother in battle.

That way, he could earn the praise and worship of the people. As his reputation grew, the path toward becoming king one day would also become much smoother.

Unfortunately, he had to admit that without resorting to tricks, he had no chance of defeating his brother in a fair fight.

On top of that, his people revered warriors and held magic in slight contempt, so he believed he would never have a chance. But today, he had seen a [mage] defeat a [warrior] in a direct confrontation. He had seen how much the people liked that mage, and he wished that he were the one receiving those admiring gazes.

I have to do something, he thought as he paced back and forth. That Midgard mage displayed extraordinary physical abilities on par with Thor's. He must have used some powerful spell or divine artifact. I have to get it. As he calculated how to achieve his goal, a crafty glint flashed in his eyes.

Ian awoke from his meditative state to find a servant informing him that Odin and Frigga wished to have breakfast with him in private. He knew the formal talks had begun, and he was ready. After briefly sampling Asgard's delicious cuisine, Odin opened the conversation.

"What do you think of my sons?"

"They are both exceptionally gifted and immensely talented," Ian replied. "Whoever becomes your successor will be an excellent choice."

"Oh, come now. I'm sure you observed more than that," Frigga added.

"What would you like me to say?" Ian shrugged.

"You want to hear the truth, is that it?" he muttered. "Thor is not