File:Journey into Mystery Vol 1 115 018.jpg

Description
Thor was leading a band of Asgardian warriors, who were riding out to stop Ghan, "the most deadly of Storm Giants", on his way to attack Asgard. Loki was, of course, resentful of Thor, thinking that he should be leading the warriors. As the battle begins, Ghan hurls a boulder at Thor, who blocks it with his hammer, causing it to shatter. Loki does not enter the battle, claiming that "the cunning Loki is far too clever to take needless chances!" and stays back in safety to plot the defeat of Thor. He then uses his magic sword to weave a spell to give Ghan the final victory. Before the spell can work, Ghan is driven back by the Asgardian's arrows. As the Storm Giant is being driven further back, they let loose their catapult, using a missile containing sleep fumes, to incapacitate him. The Asgardian task force go to where the giant should be sleeping, but find nothing. The rest of the party leaves, but Loki remains behind, saying he wanted to search more. He then "makes a mystic gesture" causing an eagle soaring nearby to return to the its natural form of the giant Ghan, saving him from the wrath of Thor. The giant then pledges his debt to Loki, and in return the Trickster reminds him not to forget it, "the day will come when I order you to repay this debt!" This was the first of many alliances with the forces of evil for Loki, as he plans and schemes to overthrow Asgard and destroy Thor.