The world didn't stop moving.
While John trained Thor, Natasha, and Clint, things outside kept changing—fast, loud, and full of anger.
Every news channel talked about the same thing. Headlines flashed on phones, TVs, and giant screens in busy cities:
"World Governments Unite: Sokovia Accords Finalized."
On one channel, a serious-looking man in a suit—once a UN representative—spoke in front of many microphones.
"After what happened in Lagos and Sokovia, and with more superpowered people appearing, we have to take action. From now on, all enhanced individuals must register and only work under government control. No exceptions."
The news cut to a talk show. Reporters and experts argued with each other.
"Let's be honest," one journalist said. "The Sokovia Accords are just a way to control the Avengers. Yes, they've saved the world—but who keeps them in check?"
"Where's Tony Stark in all of this?" another asked. "He's usually the first to speak. But now? Stark Tower is dark. No press, no interviews. It's like he disappeared."
"Some say he's gone off the grid," the host added. "Others think he's working on something big. And a name is coming up again… The Arcanist."
The screen showed old footage from the Battle of New York.
A young man in long robes stood on top of a building. Glowing runes floated around him. Energy crackled in the sky. A huge alien creature flew at the city—but hit an invisible barrier and exploded into flames.
That moment stuck in people's minds.
Who was he?
Where did he go?
Then the screen switched to a louder, angrier voice—one many people knew.
"You know what the world really needs?" shouted J. Jonah Jameson, pointing at the camera from his online show, The Daily Bugle Now. "Not more magic-using weirdos who show up out of nowhere!"
He slammed a photo on his desk—Spider-Man swinging past burning buildings.
"This! This is the real problem! Spider-kids! Spider-men! Spider-menaces! And now we've got wizards too? You think people are scared now? Wait until one of them blows up your house over a parking fight!"
His rant went on while the show hosts rolled their eyes.
But the damage was done. His loud voice added to the fear growing in people's hearts.
---
Far above Earth, hidden behind clouds and magic spells, a large floating base stayed silent.
The Sky Fortress.
No radar could find it. No satellite could see it. Inside, only a few people remained—watching and waiting.
Tony Stark was one of them.
He wasn't giving speeches. He wasn't doing interviews. He wasn't in the spotlight.
But he was preparing—quietly.
---
Meanwhile, the governments were busy.
Only two Avengers had shown up.
Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson sat in a cold, sealed room at the UN, across from some generals and leaders.
The room was quiet. Then came the sound of boots.
General Ross walked in, his face hard and serious.
"Captain Rogers," Ross said. "Thanks for cooperating. But we need more from you."
Steve didn't move. Arms crossed, eyes calm.
"Where are the others?" Ross asked. "Where's Romanoff? Barton? Stark? And what about that magic user people are talking about—The Arcanist?"
Steve leaned back.
"They're not criminals. They've saved the world more times than I can count."
"And now they've vanished," Ross replied. "If they're not with us, they're against us."
Sam tensed.
"That's a pretty narrow way of thinking."
Ross kept going.
"Stark helped build our best defenses. Now he's silent. That worries us. And this Arcanist—magic is something we can't track. That makes it dangerous."
Steve stood, calm but strong.
"Tony is still protecting people. You just can't see it from where you're standing."
Ross stepped closer.
"Don't confuse silence with being a hero. The world is scared, Rogers. When people are scared, they want control. If you don't help us, you're adding to the chaos."
Steve didn't blink.
"If you want to arrest me, go ahead. But I'm not giving up my friends. And I won't let fear decide what's right."
Ross spoke quietly but firmly.
"If you don't cooperate anymore… you and Wilson will be labeled fugitives. And next time we meet, it won't be at a table."
Steve said nothing. He just looked at Ross once more, then walked out.
Sam followed him, thoughtful.
"You think they'll really do it?" Sam asked in the hallway.
Steve nodded.
"They're scared. And scared people do stupid things."
---
And the others?
Natasha and Clint had completely disappeared.
No cameras or satellites could find them.
But they weren't hiding because of fear.
They were in a deep forest, where ancient trees touched the sky. A quiet stream flowed nearby, shining in the sunlight.
Natasha sat cross-legged, eyes closed, breathing calmly. A peaceful energy moved through her body.
Clint sat against a tree, playing with a broken arrow, watching the leaves above.
"Man," he mumbled, "I forgot how quiet peace can be."
Nearby, Thor floated just above the ground. Gentle thunder rolled from his skin. His eyes were closed in deep focus. Meditation wasn't easy for a god of storms—but he was learning.
And John?
He had already left.
He walked the path to Kamar-Taj, guided by the Ancient One, on a journey beyond even the Avengers' understanding.