Thirty Five
The casino was surrounded by local authorities and other agencies. It was kind of nice not to see S.H.I.E.L.D. jackets on everyone. That still didn't mean everyone was to be trusted. Thor and I knew it. Even the agencies seemed more on edge, not knowing if the person standing next to them was Hydra or not. It made the situation more tense and the need for a resolution more urgent.
I touched down on the city street outside the casino in classic Ironman style, shattering the pavement. Thor landed next to me. The gathered crowd erupted in cheers. I waved and blew kisses to the crowd, but never raised my face mask. I didn't want my fans seeing how bad I looked. I'd passed by a mirror before I left the safe house. My eyes were red rimmed with dark circles. I hadn't shaved in the month and a half we were in the safe house. I hadn't really showered either. I was a shadow of the man I used to be.
Police directed us into the building. Tables overturned, poker chips and cards lay everywhere. Glass was strewn about. Loki had caused a panic, but my visor picked up no blood. He hadn't hurt anyone. He was getting our attention. I spotted movement out of the corner of my eye. Loki stood at the top of the stairs, a young lady, most likely an employee, sat at his feet. She had been crying, but seemed undamaged.
"About damn time." Loki berated.
"Well, you know me. Fashionably late." I said.
"Brother! You're alive!"
"I don't remember asking for him as part of the deal." Loki cocked his head at Thor's presence. He cringed at the word 'brother'."
"I do remember the part of the deal where you said you'd let the hostages go if you got to speak to me." I reminded.
"Yes, I do suppose that I said that." He said and gestured for the hostages to run to freedom.
"Thor, take them to safety, I got this." I spoke softly.
"He'll kill you."
"You'll put even more lives at risk if you interfere. He asked for me, and he doesn't seem to keen on you being here. Trust me, I got this. Go." I handed off the young lady that had run to me.