A Genius's Pride

"You did exceptionally well—better than I expected," Ian praised. "This is your reward for the mission." Loki quickly checked his points, and a broad grin spread across his face. He could stay in The Library continuously for three months. He took a deep breath to calm himself. "How do you want me to deal with Thanos?"

"Kill him and take over his army," Ian ordered. He had already collected five Infinity Stones and was only missing the Reality Stone. Thanos was an uncontrollable variable, so it was time to eliminate him.

"My pleasure," Loki replied. Ever since learning that Thanos would kill him in his original future, he had been waiting for a chance to avenge himself. Now, the time had come.

"All right, you can go." Ian still had plenty of work to do, so he dismissed Loki.

"Before I leave, could you do me a favor?"

"A favor? What is it?"

"Could you forge a weapon for me?"

"Why bring that up all of a sudden?"

"I had such a hard time fighting Thor because I lacked a weapon of my own," Loki explained.

"Given what you accomplished today, you can ask your father to obtain a weapon from the dwarves," Ian said.

"I know, but I want one you forged."

"Hmm." Ian pondered for a moment. "All right. I'll give you two choices. The first is to pick one from my treasury, where I keep my proudest works. The second is for me to forge one for you personally, but you may have to wait several years."

"I choose the second," Loki replied without hesitation.

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure."

"All right." Ian nodded. "Do you have any specific requirements?"

"I want it to be versatile," Loki explained. "A weapon that can enhance both my magic and