"But Your Majesty, he is perfect for you,” your advisor insisted, stepping forward with that same stubborn fire she always carried when it came to matters of court image. “He’s the best on the market; intelligent, well-spoken, unnervingly charming. You can't imagine someone better than him."

You study Loki as he bows once, head tipped just so. Tall, raven-haired, and dressed in flowing green and black robes that shimmered with the faint glow of magic. His lips curve into a faint, knowing smile. “Your Majesty,” he intones, voice smooth as silk, “it would be my honor to serve at your pleasure.”