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[Fortunately a certain someone still hasn't mastered a human sleeping pattern so he's wide awake when he gets this. Well, awake anyway.]

You certainly kept your word. Kudos, not many people do.

I never toy with peoples emotions when it comes to ruining and destroying, especially not somewhere as arrogantly imposing as Asgard. Of course, the same goes to you, my new friend. I sincerely hope the enthusiasm is equally and genuinely shared. Otherwise I'll be very disappointed.

I am a man of my word. Just as I promised communication with you, I promise to see Asgard ended. A task proving to move at a frustrating pace.... [A thick pause, but... this is not a conversation Malekith intends to have focus on his shortcomings.]

You make your objectives clear, Saxon, but lend me your graces when I say I do not know you. That is a truth, and a mutual claim between us, undoubtedly. I cannot ask you to display your strengths, toprove yourself as an ally worthy, not a world such as this. Instead, let me ask for your advice, and from there, I will pass my own judgements.

On the recent trek to Ginnungagap, I encountered a man of my own world. His name is Loki, and while sharing a name with the god of this city, he nothing more than traveler. We spoke, and several truths came to light. He is an enemy of Asgard, once held prisoner by the very forces that previously called him prince. His claims say he would see the fall of this city, the fall of his Asgard, and any other that would dare to share the name, and yet...

He is also a man that defied me upon the sand of my own realm in a world past. I will deny that it was his actions alone that finally reunited me with power I sought, but do I ignore his actions against me in favor of strengthening my own position? I cannot ignore the blood of my kin he has spilled, but I will not ignore the loathing within him, the hatred he would see pierced through the very soul of Asgard.

Prove to me your opinion is one of value, Harry Saxon. Give me your counsel.

Toppling a city built by Gods is harder than it looks, hmm? [He assumed it'd be easier too. Big mistake, one to never make again.] I know I'm suffering a level of stunted creativity.

I suppose you have a point, to a degree, and even if you were to ask me to prove myself, I wouldn't out of the principle. I don't do things on others command, I do things because I want to. And I still have yet to pass judgement on you to see just how worthy you are to me. Regardless, partnerships are a two way street and here I am, offering you my counsel.

[He ponders the question for a few moment, processing all the facts that are there to see what he'd done. Seemed an easy enough way to offer advise.]

Personally, and this is just me here, I wouldn't trust any man who uses the name Loki. I know that's a snap judgement but if you're named after a trickster and happily keep the name, you're probably not someone who plays against the type. Odds are here, you are a trickster and deceit is your natural skill. But just because you don't trust someone, doesn't mean they can't be your ally.

Trust is a complicated thing, it's hard to entirely trust anyone, especially not men like us who have such a grand goal. You really only need a tiny little bit to form an alliance. Trust them enough not to kill you but not with much else. You just have to be the one who's a step ahead instead of behind. Use them, they're a means to an end after all, people are there to further your goal. Form whatever partnership you must because hey, Asgard is slightly lacking in our kind of thinker. Just don't expect it to last or be genuine. Expect to be cheated or tricked. Expect that they could be lying. Expect to probably have to destroy them when they outlive their uses.

Maybe that's harsh of me but once someone has defied you once, they always will. Destroying them is usually the best way to put a stop to that repeating.

In these extreme circumstance, they're likely to find teaming up as hard as you do, neither of you will trust one another nor feel at ease but at least you can further each others cause. Which is, conveniently enough, the same thing.

If he's angry because he's been so highly wronged by his own people, that's always an asset to you. Mutual hatred makes for great friendships. Especially if he has the power and knowledge to make an impact. All that hatred can be weaponised. And surely someone should otherwise you're just wasting a good opportunity. But that's just me. I've always been a bit of an opportunist.

Edited 2014-03-03 12:15 (UTC)

[Malekith is quiet while he listens, even slipping to a point where his eyes close in thought. His is a patience exhibited only when his own interests are at hand.]

... My ears do not your words harsh, Harry Saxon. You speak truthfully, and are not afraid to do so. It is a quality I would wish to see in others, yet... [And yet people are so weak willed. Adjusting in his seat, Malekith leans forward just enough that the light of the video feed casts sharp shadows on his elvish features. Ominous.]

I do not find myself worried for my own safety in regards to Loki, nor any other of the Asgardians present. I have seen their strengths and I understand the motivations by which the Asgardian mind works. [And one more pause - is it a moment of Malekith swallowing some pride?] Still, your counsel has my appreciation, and I will take care to see my blades sharp, and my mind sharper still. I will need my wits about me if I am to find the full potential Loki can provide. We will see Asgard fall yet.

It is not said that I am a man who would see favors unpaid. I came to you for guidance, of which you provided, so I will ask you this but once: would you have anything of me in return?

I never dance around the point, I just go for it. I'm not fond of lying unless it's funny or benefits me. And this is merely a very objective subject so you're getting honesty, aren't you a lucky duck?

[The humour was obvious in his tone but it wasn't all that genuine. He was just adding it to neutralise anything too serious here. He wasn't usually one for playing an agony aunt but he knew one day this could benefit him.]

I never said worry, just be wary. It's a healthy thing to do. But best of luck with your partnership, hopefully he won't very literally stab you in the back. [Though he does have money on the potential of that happening on either side.] If you can get Asgard to fall, I'd be very impressed. But I'm not holding my breath, I've got to be honest. It's not an easy task and I've seen so man determined men fail.

Anything in return? [He's quiet for a moment, as if trying to make sure he's phrasing this right.] I helped you, I'll need you to help me one day. I can't say how or when yet but I'll need it. So for now, how about we just say you owe me a favour?

[I stormed Asgard once, and with success - Malekith could say it. He could gloat and boast of the lives he took.

But it's really a tactic only useful against those who would be appalled by the information, isn't it? To share it with someone who would take the enjoyment of it, just as he would... Well. It makes for a good story to tell.]

A favor. [This, though. It could have very serious repercussions.]

... I accept. Come to me with whatever task you need done. I will see to it.

I'm glad we have an understand, a gentlemen's agreement, if you will.

[He would of shook hands but alas, distance was such a harsh mistress some days. Still, a favour could prove useful in the future, especially with what he had planned. But that didn't mean he wanted to be entirely out of the game while waiting around, oh no, he liked to hit the ground running.]

Of course, you're still welcome to come to me any time you need me. I don't mind tossing you some free help, if it's worth my time.

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