---
A dimensional rift tore open above the Hudson River like a wound in space itself. Out from the swirling vortex stepped Loki, cloaked in green and gold, his horned helmet shining under the moonlight.
His expression was amused, yet cautious. This wasn't like other visits to Midgard. This time, he wasn't the strongest presence here.
"This mortal," he whispered, "he challenges fate itself."
The moment Loki arrived, the skies darkened. Birds vanished. The city went still—as if the world was bracing for something unnatural.
Then, with a whisper, he appeared.
One second, the air was empty. The next, Ron stood floating in front of Loki, arms crossed, coat billowing, eyes glowing like suns.
Behind him, Aria appeared with over ten thousand elite warriors forming a semi-invisible phalanx around the area. From rooftops, clouds, and even the shadows—his army stood ready.
> [Loki Odinson Detected]
Threat Level: Observing...
Calculated Match Probability: 100% Victory (No Damage)
Ron's voice cut through the air like a divine command.
"You came. Good."
Loki raised an eyebrow. "You knew I'd watch."
"I let you," Ron replied. "You think you're the god of mischief. But your magic bends to rules. My power rewrites them."
Loki chuckled, but the smile didn't reach his eyes. "You speak boldly for someone so... new."
Ron raised a hand, and in a blink, the sky turned crimson. Magical runes shattered midair. Loki's illusions broke before they formed.
He had disabled Loki's spells before they were even cast.
> [Skill: System Suppression Field Activated]
[All Opponent Abilities Below Host's Threshold Automatically Neutralized]
Loki's smirk faltered.
Ron floated closer. "I don't care about ruling Midgard or taking the throne of Asgard. I care about one thing—freedom. Mine. And those who follow me."
"You speak like a king."
Ron's eyes glowed brighter. "I speak like a man who won't be betrayed again."
With a single motion, Ron snapped his fingers.
The Hudson froze.
Literally. A wave of icy power surged across the river and surrounding boroughs, stopping traffic, electricity, and even magic.
Loki found himself frozen midair—his body immobilized.
Ron hovered forward, his voice now low and cold. "Next time you open a rift to spy on me, I'll shatter your soul across the Nine Realms."
Then, as quickly as it came, the ice vanished.
Loki fell, coughing, stunned, humbled.
"I see now," he murmured. "You're not a mortal with power… you're something else entirely."
Ron gave a single nod.
"I'm what comes after gods."
---
Back at SHIELD HQ, Natasha stared at the satellite footage.
Loki had been defeated without a single punch.
Her heart raced—not from fear… but from something far more dangerous.
Attraction.
---