"The Destroyer!"
Sif's expression changed, and she cried out in alarm.
"Why is the Destroyer here? Shouldn't only His Majesty's Gungnir be able to control it? His Majesty is asleep, so who could..."
At that, she suddenly fell silent.
The answer was obvious.
"Loki actually sent the Destroyer!" Volstagg said in disbelief. "What is he trying to do?!"
The Destroyer Armor slowly raised its head, its eyes locking onto Thor.
"Isn't it obvious? He must be afraid Thor will return to inherit the throne, so he sent the Destroyer to kill him!" Sif roared.
"For Asgard!"
The Warriors Three exchanged glances and charged without hesitation, engaging the Destroyer Armor in fierce combat.
Their attacks, however, barely tickled the Destroyer.
The Destroyer swung its enormous arms, every attack carrying devastating force. Whenever its faceplate opened, it unleashed a searing column of fire that destroyed everything around it.
The Warriors Three were driven back again and again, utterly outmatched.
Watching his friends struggle against the Destroyer Armor, Thor's eyes flashed with resolve.
He knew he had to do something.
In that instant, he seemed to understand Odin's true intentions.
"Jane, take care of yourself." Thor's gaze was tender.
He walked toward the Destroyer Armor, step by step, his eyes unwavering.
"Loki! I know you're watching!" Thor shouted. "Come after me! Don't hurt my friends!"
"If you want my life, come and take it! All I ask is that you spare everyone else!"
He spread his arms and faced the Destroyer Armor without fear.
"Thor!" Jane screamed, her voice breaking.
She wanted to stop Thor, but there was nothing she could do.
"Hermione! Please! Save him!"
Jane turned to Hermione as though grasping at a lifeline, her eyes filled with pleading.
Hermione watched Thor, her gaze calm.
"It's not time yet," she said