"Tell me why you came here," Zenkichi said, his tone calm but edged with authority. He wasn't trying to push Loki further than necessary — there was no need. His sharp gaze locked onto the Asgardian, as if he could peel away every layer of deception.
"I just wanted to take a look at you. Observe you. Nothing more," Loki replied smoothly. It was, in part, the truth. His initial plan had been simple — watch this mysterious man who had aided Thor and displayed strength beyond expectation. Zenkichi was an unknown variable, one even Loki had never encountered before. Naturally, he had to assess the threat.
But Loki left out one very important detail. He had also been searching for an opportunity to kill him. After all, Loki was the God of Mischief. Strategy, deceit, and manipulation were his weapons. Even the strongest warrior had weaknesses, and Loki believed that, given the right opening, he could exploit Zenkichi's.
That confidence died the moment he appeared. Zenkichi had sensed him instantly, seized him without hesitation, and dismantled any advantage Loki thought he had.
"Did you forget to mention something?" Zenkichi's eyes narrowed slightly, a knowing glint in his gaze.
"No," Loki said quickly, keeping his expression neutral. Admitting his true intentions would be suicide — like willingly placing a blade at his own throat.
"Then get lost. But if you try to attack me again, I'll make sure you die."
Without ceremony, Zenkichi hurled him toward the shattered glass. The force was enough to make an ordinary man's bones snap, but he knew Loki's divine body could withstand it. Even so, the warning was clear — one more step out of line and Loki would pay the price in blood.
As the Asgardian vanished, Zenkichi's attention shifted. His senses had already picked up another presence — standing just beyond his door. A shadow moved. A familiar figure stepped forward.
Natasha Romanoff — the Black Widow.
She had been there long enough to hear everything. "Was that… a god?" she asked. Even her usual composure seemed strained.
Zenkichi arched an eyebrow. "I think you should explain why you're here."
"Director Fury sent me," she said. "I'm here to invite you to join S.H.I.E.L.D."
He blinked. "You couldn't just send me an email?"
"This is important. A face-to-face invitation is a sign of respect," Natasha replied firmly. "It's not every day we ask someone like you to be involved."
Zenkichi leaned back slightly, his expression unreadable. "Alright, I understand. You can head back. But… a word of advice. Don't mention what happened here today to anyone. If that guy decides to take an interest in you, it won't end well."
Natasha gave a curt nod. "Understood."
As she left, Zenkichi turned back toward the TV. The encounter with Loki was over — for now. But he knew the God of Mischief wasn't the type to give up so easily. Somewhere, another game had already begun.
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