Loki nodded. "You have been right in this, brother." He throttled down the urge to add more to the statement, since if he was too effusive Thor would no doubt smell a rat. "Laufey gathers his warriors. He sends scouts to find a route to Asgard that will not depend upon the Bifrost. There are two nations he might negotiate with, and I am poised to interfere with those talks and hobble the movement of his troops, at your word. He prepares to wake the greater beasts of Jotunheim as well.

"A show of strength is necessary. But I also know that Father's true wish has always been peace in order to preserve life. So in considering this I have... concluded there are alternate ways we could pursue this war. Ways that will show our absolute strength to the other realms while adhering to Father's wishes that the lives of our people are not at risk." He glanced up at Thor. "If the King would care to entertain such ideas."