Loki's expression instantly darkened.
"What are you laughing at?"
He spoke coldly, anger threading his voice.
Hermione stopped laughing and looked at Loki with mockery in her eyes.
"I'm laughing at how little you know of the world, and how much you overestimate yourself," Hermione said. "Do you have any idea how many powerful people there are on Earth? Forget you-even Odin wouldn't dare claim he could rule Earth."
Loki was about to speak when Hermione raised her head and glanced at the sky.
Hermione mouthed something without making a sound.
But Loki was sharp enough to read the word on her lips.
"Heimdall."
Loki froze, immediately understood what Hermione meant, and shut his mouth.
Hermione waved her wand, casting several spells in succession.
"Salvio Hexia."
"Protego Totalum."
"Muffliato."
The three spells layered together, forming an invisible barrier around them.
"There. Now we can have a proper talk."
Hermione looked at Loki, her voice calm.
"It seems you know far more about Asgard than I imagined," Loki said with keen interest. "All the more reason for us to work together."
"Working together isn't out of the question."
Hermione folded her arms. "Why should I help you?"
"Because we share common enemies: Thor and Odin." Loki's eyes turned cold. "He took the throne that should have been mine."
"And you, a powerful wizard, are forced to live on this backward planet. Doesn't that gall you?" he asked, trying to stir her resentment.
Hermione gave no indication either way.
"I can help you gain greater power, the status you deserve, and even... immortality!" Loki dangled the bait. "Help me take the throne, and all of it will be yours."
His voice was full of seductive promise.
Buddy, do you even have any of that yourself? And you're promising it to me? Hermione