Chapter 146: Avengers XI
Loki's smirk faltered as he saw the Infinity Stone pulsing atop Dave's sword, its raw energy vibrating through the air. The stone's glow was like a heartbeat, syncing with the aura of destruction emanating from Dave.
"You dare wield an Infinity Stone against me?" Loki sneered, his voice tinged with indignation. He raised his scepter, its Mind Stone gleaming brightly as it reacted to the challenge. "Do you even understand the power you're toying with?"
Dave stepped forward, his movements deliberate, his confidence unshaken. "I understand enough," he replied. "Enough to know you're out of your league, Loki."
Without another word, Loki thrust his scepter forward, releasing a torrent of golden energy. The blast ripped through the air, surging straight toward Dave. But instead of dodging, Dave raised his sword, channeling the Power Stone's energy through its blade. With a single swing, the blast was cleaved in two, the energy dissipating harmlessly around him.
Loki's eyes widened in disbelief. "Impossible!" he exclaimed.
Dave didn't respond. He vanished in a blur, reappearing behind Loki in an instant. The sharp edge of the Devil Sword Dante grazed Loki's armor as the Asgardian spun around just in time to deflect the strike with his scepter. The clash of their weapons sent shockwaves through the Stark Tower, shattering glass and sending debris flying.
"You're not the only one with tricks, Loki," Dave said, his voice calm despite the ferocity of the battle.
Loki snarled, leaping back to create distance. He raised the scepter, its tip glowing brighter as he prepared another attack. "You think you can match me? A god?!" he roared, unleashing another surge of Mind Stone energy.
Dave planted his feet, gripping the hilt of his sword tightly. He poured the Power Stone's energy into the blade, creating a barrier of raw force that absorbed the Mind Stone's attack. The ground beneath him cracked and crumbled under the immense power.