"This isn't studying or researching or something you do within the dusty halls of a library or your workroom, Loki," she countered with a slight shake of her head, still within his personal space, her hands sliding to his shoulders as she studied his face. Her voice was low but fervent as she spoke with soft emphasis "This is different, this is more. I don't want to see you hurt again. Not like this. It was all I could do to stand there and not interrupt in the first place." And true to her suspicions, she had Volstagg-shaped bruises on her upper arms this morning to prove it.

"Please, Loki. I may not be talented at plotting and keeping track of all that you know and do, but I can at least take orders, and you can count on me, should you ever need aid. I would hope you'd know and remember that."