[...He hadn't even realized he'd said it. A single critical misstep, but one that had him inwardly panicking no matter how calm he looked.]

I misspoke--blame the lack of sleep, I imagine. He died when I was still mortal, before I became what I am now.

We had grown apart somewhat beforehand. I was never wholly sure if that made it easier or more difficult. He was...very much like Loki, in several ways. For good and ill alike.

['annoying as hell' was implied]