Loki Laufeyson

The Great Hall of Asgard was filled with laughter. Thor recounted his latest victory, Odin listened with pride, and Frigga smiled warmly. It seemed as if the entire kingdom had once again gathered around the heir to the throne.

The doors swung open with a bang.

Loki entered the hall.

He walked slowly forward, stopping directly in front of the throne. His face was calm, but his eyes showed the pain he had hidden for many years.

"How touching..." he said quietly. "Another celebration in honor of the great Thor."

Everyone fell silent.

"Loki, what happened?" Thor asked.

— What happened? Do you really not understand? All my life I watched you have everything. The love of the people. Friends. Your father's trust. Your mother's care. And I was always just a shadow.

One frowned.

— Watch your words.

— Exactly! If I say a word, they force me to remain silent! But when Thor speaks, everyone listens!

Frigga stepped towards him.

• Loki...

• No! Let me finish at least once!

He took a deep breath.

"I didn't envy your hammer, Thor. I didn't envy your throne. I envied the fact that you were never alone."

Loki looked his brother straight in the eyes.

"You found a girl who loves you. She saw the real you. And I... I wanted that too. I wanted someone to understand me. For someone to love not a prince, not a sorcerer, not a liar... but me."

His voice wavered.

"But that didn't happen. No one tried to understand me. No matter how hard I tried, I was never good enough for anyone. I was always the odd one out."

Thor took a step forward.

• Loki, we...

— No! Don't tell me you understand! You've never lived my life! You don't know what it's like to feel like you're being compared to your brother every day... and you always lose. Tears rolled down Loki's cheeks. He stared at Odin, Frigga, and Thor for a few more seconds. His lips trembled, and his eyes showed only pain and despair. — Answer me... right now... He let out a scream that echoed throughout the hall. — DID YOU LOVE ME EVEN A LITTLE?! After these words there was silence