At night, SHIELD headquarters, Trident Building.
"Everyone in the Avengers has been invited to the party by Lockhart," Coulson reported, standing a few steps behind Nick Fury.
Nick Fury, clad in his iconic black trench coat, stood by the large glass window, gazing out at the brightly lit cityscape beyond. He exuded his usual air of authority, yet a hint of weariness flickered in his one good eye.
"Yes, Director," Coulson affirmed. "Hawkeye and Black Widow are both attending."
Fury was silent for a moment, processing the information. His expression darkened, reflecting his frustration. He had intended to use this gathering to strengthen SHIELD's ties with both Asgard and Lockhart while probing for intelligence about Kamar-Taj. Rumors had reached his ears about the dual threats—an invasion in New York and an assault on Kamar-Taj by malevolent entities.
He sighed and turned his attention back to Coulson. "Tell me, Coulson, now that Thor has taken the Cosmic Cube back to Asgard, do we still have any chance of acquiring Loki's scepter?"
The question hung in the air, rhetorical at best. Fury let out a soft chuckle, one devoid of humor, as if mocking his own optimism.
Coulson, ever the loyal subordinate, remained quiet. He didn't need to speak; his silence answered the question better than words ever could.
Nick Fury shifted gears, his tone suddenly sharp and resolute. "We need to catalog the alien equipment left behind. Prioritize high-power weapons. Secure them, study them, and replicate them if possible. Additionally, see if we can extract any intelligence about the Chitauri or their operations from what remains."
"Understood, sir," Coulson replied.
Fury's gaze sharpened. "And arrange a conversation with Thor. See if we can negotiate a one-on-one interrogation of Loki. We need every piece of intel we can get to prepare for the possibility of another invasion. We can't afford to be caught off guard again."
Coulson nodded but hesitated before broaching another topic. "What about Professor Wizard?"
"Maintain a cordial relationship," Fury replied after a pause, his voice carrying a note of reluctance. "Let Natasha continue her efforts to learn magic. We need any edge we can get."
Lockhart and Kamar-Taj remained enigmas, unpredictable and powerful. Fury was painfully aware of SHIELD's limitations when it came to dealing with magical forces. His only hope was that Kamar-Taj would emerge weakened from its recent battles, presenting an opportunity for SHIELD to gain the upper hand.
Still, a troubling thought crossed his mind: Is Kamar-Taj truly the only place on Earth with mastery over magic?
The next morning, sunlight poured into Lockhart's bedroom, its golden rays illuminating the room and gently coaxing him from his slumber. A faint furrow appeared on his brow before his eyes fluttered open.
Groaning softly, Lockhart raised a hand to his temple and rubbed it. The lingering effects of last night's indulgence were still evident. With a muttered incantation, he cast a spell to ease his hangover, feeling a refreshing surge of clarity almost instantly.
Rising from bed, he let his gaze settle on the light blue walls, his thoughts wandering. The previous night's party had been strategic. Beyond the camaraderie and pleasantries, it served two purposes: opening trade channels between the Vientiane World and Asgard and establishing connections with the Avengers, whose roles in the future he deemed indispensable.
Among them, Tony Stark stood out. His technological prowess was a vital complement to Lockhart's magical expertise. But all of this paled in comparison to the day's earlier revelation—the words of the Ancient One lingered in his mind.
The position of Sorcerer Supreme.
The mere thought sent a shiver of anticipation through him. To wield the Eye of Agamotto, to command time itself—that kind of power was intoxicating.
His thoughts turned to Doctor Strange. What role will he play in this?
Lockhart's resolve solidified. Shaking off his musings, he rose from the bed. With a flick of his wand, the disheveled quilt straightened itself, and the door swung open. A cleansing charm swept over him, leaving him refreshed and presentable.
Dark green wizard robes floated toward him, and as he extended his arms, they settled neatly into place. A moment later, a vibrant red-flamed portal materialized, revealing the interior of his enchanted training room.
The room was bustling with activity. Students practiced spells in pairs, discussed magical theory, and sparred in mock duels. The atmosphere buzzed with energy and determination.
"Good morning, mentor!"
Lockhart acknowledged their greetings with a warm smile and a nod. He paused near the entrance, observing his students with quiet pride.
Their movements became more deliberate under his watchful eye. Though they continued their routines, an air of formality crept into their actions as they sought to impress their mentor.
Lockhart's gaze lingered on Remy and Ian, who were diligently practicing spells, and on Vera, who was patiently explaining incantations to Wanda. All around, students engaged in rigorous exercises, spirited duels, and animated discussions.
They've come a long way, Lockhart thought, satisfaction swelling in his chest. Compared to Hogwarts' students, these young wizards were better trained and far more disciplined.
His musings were interrupted by the arrival of Snape, Steve, and Peggy. The three instructors exchanged brief greetings with Lockhart before taking their places.
Lockhart clapped his hands, the sharp sound drawing everyone's attention. The students quickly assembled into neat rows, while the instructors stood off to the side.
"My students," Lockhart began, his voice steady and commanding, "your progress over these weeks has exceeded my expectations."
"You've achieved a level of skill that rivals Hogwarts graduates. I am incredibly proud of each and every one of you."
The room erupted in applause. Lockhart's students beamed with pride, their spirits lifted by his words.
When the applause died down, Lockhart raised his hands for silence.
"My expectations for you remain high. You are the torchbearers of a new era. It is your duty to ignite the flames of change and lead the resurgence of wizardry."
"Do you have confidence in yourselves?"
"Yes, mentor!" they shouted in unison, their voices ringing with determination.
Lockhart's smile widened. "Good. Soon, we will return to the wizarding world, where you will take on the role of mentors to future students. Together, we will make wizards great again!"
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