Chapter 180: Are You A Devil?
"The dark elves were defeated by the former king Bor tens of thousands of years ago. Now, their remaining forces are hiding in Svartálfheim," Thor stated.
"It's not difficult to defeat them. The challenge is finding them in their familiar dark environment. This time, we will eradicate them completely to ensure that nothing like this happens again. This is not a battle of defeat but a battle of annihilation."
In the conference hall, Thor was discussing the battle with many soldiers. The three warriors had arrived, and Sif had returned from Earth.
"Well, I have a question. Since we know their lair is in Svartálfheim, why can't we use the Bifrost to destroy it, just like we did with Jotunheim?" Loki asked.
Loki had proven his worth during the recent Dungeon crisis. He managed to maintain order and control the situation, allowing others to focus on removing the dark elves from other locations.
Additionally, Frigga had pleaded with Odin to give Loki another chance, so Odin decided to allow him to participate in this war, treating it as both a punishment and a chance for redemption.
Thor explained, "The dark elves are not like the Giants of Jotunheim, who lack technology. The Bifrost doesn't unleash its power instantly. There's a process of ramping up to full power, during which they can escape using their spaceships. Moreover, during the convergence of celestial bodies, space between the Nine Realms becomes chaotic, making the Bifrost ineffective."
At this moment, Odin, seated on the throne, spoke: "The task is to destroy their fighters and troops and eliminate every exposed target. They cannot hide from us."
Thor paused for a moment before continuing, "Then, I want to discuss our route…"
"Hey, what does Odin mean? I always feel he has other plans," Loki asked Thor after the meeting.
Thor did not directly address Loki's question but said seriously, "I am quite pleased with your performance in the Dungeon crisis yesterday. With the army preparing to move out, there are some things I need to clarify."
"I don't fully trust you. This war is a matter of pure conflict. Your tricks aren't of much use here. It's mother who believes in you and wants to give you a chance."
Loki noticed that Thor used "mother" rather than "my mother," indicating a deep personal bond beyond mere duty.
For Thor, eradicating the dark elves was more about a personal vendetta than just a military campaign.
"Then what if I betray you?" Loki asked.
"I will kill you without hesitation!" Thor responded.
Loki shivered and gritted his teeth. "Don't worry. You can trust me until we've wiped out these dark elves!"
The two walked toward Frigga's palace together. As they approached, Sif suddenly placed a sword across Loki's neck.
"Uh… what's this about?" Loki asked, bewildered.
Sif's expression was stern. "Your Highness may trust you, but that doesn't mean we do. If you dare to betray us, I will make sure to carry out His Highness's orders and kill you myself!"
"Alright," Loki said, raising his hands in surrender. "Destroying the dark elves is a goal I can support."
Thor patted Sif on the shoulder with a smile. "Okay, let's not intimidate him any further. After the war, I'll join you in dealing with him."
Sif sheathed her sword and gave Thor a reassuring smile.
Loki's face darkened. "Why should your pleasure be derived from my misery?"
The two continued onward, but the three Asgardian warriors also joined in, warning Loki: "If you dare to betray us, we will kill you!"
"Oh, that's truly frightening," Loki replied, "but I'm afraid you'll have to wait in line."
Loki, while apprehensive, knew he was unlikely to be killed.
Thor glanced at him and said calmly, "Don't worry. If you do betray us, I'll use the aether to turn you into a frog and then hand you over to the Hulk."
Instantly, Loki's face drained of color at the thought. The idea of becoming a frog and being given to the Hulk was a terrifying prospect.
"Are you all devils?" Loki muttered.
The three warriors laughed at Loki's discomfort.
Fandral whistled excitedly, "Count me in!"
Volstagg, who had been quiet, added with a grin, "I'm suddenly looking forward to seeing what betrayal looks like."
Loki groaned. "Are you all truly devils?"
In the palace of the Queen of Asgard, Frigga lay in bed, pale and weak, while Jane Foster attended to her.
Thor entered and asked, "How is the Queen Mother?"
A maid at the side replied, "With Asgardian magic, the Queen's recovery is progressing quickly. She will be healed in a few days."
Frigga said, "Thor, you should leave now. I need to speak with Loki alone."
Loki felt a wave of unease.
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