"Bluntness can be an admirable trait, as well," he says.

That blend of wary and resolute only pleases Loki. He likes to be recognized; likes when people know he is potentially dangerous; likes best of all when people are willing to take him at face value anyway, and give him a chance to show them what he's actually like. He smiles, and there's something a little smug in it, but when Vars asks his question, Loki sobers a little and gives the most honest answer he can.

"Both," he says. "Though I would caution you that many worlds meet here in the Nexus, and what is true of the Loki in your world may not apply to me."

"There are clearly parallels, though. And I am the god of lies, of mischief, and the outlier."