2 | 𝐁𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐃 ▹ LOKI LAUFEYSON

xvii. the collector

A M O R A

Amora gazed in both awe and horror at the vast array of creatures and relics in the Collector's museum. Countless display containers floated about the room, extending above them. Captive beings peered out silently as the three followed the Krylorian slave, many of whom were of species that Amora did not even recognize.

The cases cleared to reveal a tall figure turned away as Carina stopped and turned to face them with a forced smile.

"I present," she began, bowing and motioning toward her master, "Taneleer Tivan. The Collector."

At her words, Tivan turned slowly, his lazy eyes taking in his guests. He hummed and raised a gloved hand to stroke the tattooed line that marked his chin.

With one smooth movement, he approached Gamora and took her hand. "Welcome," he drawled, bringing her hand to his lips, "to my collection. Carina tells me that you bring an object of interest."

Pulling her hand away, Gamora reached into her pocket and took out a necklace. The silver chain held a black stone that seemed to pulse a dark light.

Tivan hummed in interest and carefully took the object out of Gamora's hand, lowering an intricate pair of magnifier over his eyes and bringing it closer to his face.

"A cloaking amulet that hides your location from any searching eyes," his eyes flickered up to the Asgardians, "even a gatekeeper."

"Very rare," he mused, looking over his spectacles at the assassin, "and useful for anyone in your profession. Why do you bring this to me?"

"I do not need to hide from anyone," Gamora said, straightening slightly, "I need information."

The Collector gave his assistant the necklace and she scurried away with it. Clasping his hands together in front of himself, he turned back to the three. "What do you wish to know?"

"There are rumors of a map that leads to an Infinity Stone..." the Collector perked with interest at this and nodded before Gamora could finish.

"Yes," he closed his eyes, "I know where it is."

Amora glanced hopefully at Loki. He seemed to be leaning into the man's words.

"But that would cost more than a cloaking amulet," the Collector spoke and Amora's spirits immediately fell.

"Name your price," Gamora said evenly despite her clenched fists.

The Collector paused and he looked directly at the two Asgardians for the first time since their arrival. His eyes finally rested on Amora's chest. "That soul-keeper."

Amora's brows furrowed in confusion as her hand subconsciously lifted to touch the necklace that had captured his gaze. The same necklace that she acquired from Karnilla's vault during her last encounter with Thanos' daughters. Ever since its magic helped her defend herself from Lorelei, Amora had grown to wear it regularly in case she ever needed it.

"I'm sorry," Loki broke the silence, "The what?"

Tivan looked back and forth between the two confused Asgardians. "Soul-keeper. Stones such as that one are enchanted to hold the souls of any being that the sorcerer so chooses. It allows the wearer to tap into the knowledge, abilities, or strength of the soul. They require a vast amount of magic and are extremely rare."