He said I needed someone who leaned more on the good side of magic, a better influence than him, and someone strong enough to- [Well, Ikol said train and protect him, but obviously Loki's mind jumped elsewhere.] -to keep up with me.

[Which Ikol said too, but that's closer to his assumptions. He's used to everyone planning for the worst with him.]

I wouldn't mind having the New Mutants to fall back on, you know. Even Helstrom or Volstagg would be fine. And obviously, I'd have no issue staying with Thor, were he here.

[And usually he would be excited for a Doctor Strange team-up too, except...]

... I don't like having things decided for me.