Kamar-Taj, Bamboo Forest Tea Room
The serene ambiance of the Bamboo Forest Tea Room was disrupted by the rising tension among the sorcerers. The scent of fresh tea leaves mingled with the faint hum of magic that permeated the air, but even this could not calm the brewing storm.
"Sorcerer Supreme, this time Lockhart has truly overstepped," David said, his voice tinged with indignation. "The so-called World of Vientiane under his care has caused chaos. Its existence has been spread across New York—and beyond."
"Indeed," Larson added, his arms crossed tightly over his chest. "Kamar-Taj, which has maintained a reclusive stance for thousands of years, is now at risk of exposure. And Lockhart, instead of managing it discreetly, involves S.H.I.E.L.D. agents in his affairs!"
The complaints flowed freely, punctuated by nods of agreement from the gathered sorcerers.
Ancient One, the Sorcerer Supreme, sat cross-legged on the mat at the room's center, her expression calm as she gently waved an ancient fan. The cool breeze brushed her face as she listened patiently to the grievances.
When David and Larson finished, the Ancient One turned her gaze to two of her most trusted disciples, Kaecilius and Morin. Her voice was steady, almost conversational. "What are your thoughts on Lockhart's actions?"
Kaecilius stepped forward immediately, his tone measured. "Lockhart has taken responsibility for the incident, Sorcerer Supreme. He acknowledges that the situation has spiraled beyond control. However…"
He hesitated, then continued, "His dealings with S.H.I.E.L.D. predate his time at Kamar-Taj. After joining us, he consciously distanced himself from them and from the world of ordinary humans. It was only Hydra's extreme actions that forced his hand."
Larson scoffed. "That may be true, but it does not justify exposing magic, Kamar-Taj, or the sorcerers who protect this world. Lockhart's recklessness has jeopardized everything we stand for."
Kaecilius clenched his fists but nodded reluctantly. "You are correct, Larson. Mistakes were made."
David seized the moment, stepping forward with a smug expression. "Sorcerer Supreme, this situation calls for strict measures. Lockhart may claim he can undo the damage by erasing the memories of ordinary people, but can we truly trust him with such a delicate task?"
Before David could press further, Morin interjected, his voice urgent. "Sorcerer Supreme, I agree that Lockhart's actions warrant scrutiny, but we have a far greater issue at hand."
The room fell silent as all eyes turned to Morin.
"This is not merely a matter of information leaks. Based on our findings, this incident involves forces far more dangerous: the dimensional demon Mephisto and the realm of Asgard."
The Ancient One's expression did not waver. "Continue," she said calmly.
"Shortly before the spread of the Vientiane World, Lockhart engaged in a confrontation with Mephisto," Morin explained. "At the same time, Loki, the second prince of Asgard, has surfaced on Earth and stolen the Cosmic Cube. The two events may be connected."
David raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Lockhart fought Mephisto? Forgive me, but I find that hard to believe. Mephisto is a formidable entity. If that battle occurred, is Lockhart even in a condition to complete the tasks he has taken on?"
The remark was followed by murmurs of agreement.
"I propose we entrust the memory-erasure task to a more reliable sorcerer," David suggested. "Furthermore, Mephisto is known for his cunning. We should verify that Lockhart hasn't been compromised."
Morin countered swiftly. "I have faith in Lockhart. His proficiency in the realm of souls is recognized by Master Putola himself. If anyone can handle this, it is him."
"Master Putola's expertise is undeniable," David admitted, "but Lockhart's strength lies in alchemy. I still believe we should conduct tests to ensure his safety—and ours."
"And I believe the safest course of action is for Lockhart to undergo the baptism of Vishanti," Larson interjected. "It would eliminate all potential threats of corruption and strengthen his magic. Kamar-Taj would benefit greatly."
The suggestion caused a ripple of debate. The baptism of Vishanti was a sacred process, one that not only purified a sorcerer's power but also bound them irrevocably to the mystical order.
Kaecilius and Morin exchanged uncertain glances.
David, meanwhile, concealed a smirk. For him, the baptism was a perfect solution. It would neutralize any dissent Lockhart might harbor while ensuring his compliance with Kamar-Taj's directives.
The Ancient One raised her hand, silencing the room. "Enough," she said, her voice firm but gentle. "Lockhart has accepted responsibility for the Vientiane World. He will bear the consequences of his actions. However, any punishment will be determined after he resolves this crisis."
David and Larson's faces were carefully neutral, but dissatisfaction lingered in their eyes. Kaecilius and Morin, meanwhile, appeared relieved, subtle satisfaction in their expressions.
The Ancient One continued, her tone commanding. "This incident has revealed a greater threat. The involvement of Asgard and Mephisto demands our immediate attention. Effective immediately, Kamar-Taj will enter war preparations. The three great sanctuaries must operate at full capacity."
"Yes, Sorcerer Supreme," the sorcerers replied in unison, their voices solemn.
New York, Queens – Vienna Streets
Under the bright afternoon sun, the bustling streets of Vienna hummed with life. Vendors called out to passersby, cars honked in the distance, and pedestrians moved briskly along the sidewalks.
Standing inconspicuously by a lamppost, Lockhart surveyed the area with Ian and Wanda by his side. His demeanor was calm, but his sharp eyes missed nothing.
Perched on his shoulder was a creature resembling a bat, its leathery wings folded neatly against its body. The magical being—known as the Swooping Evil—shifted slightly, its small, glowing eyes scanning the surroundings.
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