Loki knew when the mortal had dared to pick up the dagger; it was his in fundamental ways of blood and magic, eager to come to his hand when called. He grinned to himself, slipping past Kotetsu to catch up with his own illusion, slipping into it.

He lead Kotetsu farther down into the hall before pretending to stumble and catch himself against the wall. One hand hidden, he summoned another dagger.

The image of the woman turned toward Kotetsu, eyes wide and frightened. That image shattered away the moment Kotetsu touched her, revealing Loki, who grinned, slashing up with the dagger in his hand.

With his other hand he gestured, calling the dagger that Barnaby had picked up.