[There are arguments still be made of Loki: how cautious he is that he has landed himself dead, has killed Thor twice, has been nearly killed himself but for Thor's rescue, or that of another's, more than once. He lives recklessly, and he is often clever enough to escape the damages. But here? Here those consequences seem more dire. The words do not reassure, and still Thor worries.]

[But he's given no time to argue, his own accusations turned against him by his ever-slippery brother. And what can Thor do but defend, and turn his attack to the city once again?]

[He sees what you're doing, Loki, even though he follows right along with it.]

Returning to Asgardia, regaining Mjolnir and my power. These are not reason enough? [He takes Loki's hands from his face by one hand and holds them caught between them.] I am our weapon and shield both, here. Stay the player of chess as your prefer. Move the pieces as you like, but keep behind me as you do. Where you are safe.