[ Okay, that sounded a little dumb, even to Loki. He grimaces, annoyed at reacting so . . . childishly. ]

No. And people would think twice of doing so. I was a prince, regardless. But certainly more . . . quieter aspects of Asgard were not regarded well. My skills in magic and craft, in statesmanship and cunning — it could not aid them in the field of battle, where one's mettle is measured in blood and sweat.