Loki: Redemption

by Raven862

Before Loki faked his death, he begins having second thoughts of his past actions and latest plan throughout the experience. Once he got stabbed by Kurse and sees that Thor really does care. He realizes that he has gone too far and flees to earth to start a new life. Will Loki begin his new life and become the greatest hero of all time or will he fall back to being a villain?

26. Chapter 25

Soon the four of them arrives at Seoul, much to their relief, the town still seems to be at peace and Ultron still hasn't made his attack and it will not be like that for long. Loki, Darcy and Wanda are now hiding in an alley way, trying to keep out of sight and to be ready for anything. While Pietro is going towards Ultron's headquarters, wanting to see what's going on and to bring a full report to the others. The three of them keeps their guards up and are ready to fight if they have to and to try to defend themselves and be ready for whatever these robots may have in store for all of them. It has been mostly quiet and they have been waiting for a good hour or so and the only thing that Loki has been focusing on is trying to see if he can know for sure if the Maximoff twins really have good intentions or if they are both walking right into a trap.

Sure they haven't told anyone that he's Mysto, but this feels a little too good to be true and that is what making him even more suspicious of him and that alone is what making him feel a sense of frustration that is not going away and all the answers that he is now yearning for is only making him feel as though that he needs them more than ever. Loki doesn't even know how Darcy can handle being in the same area as the twins and not even driving herself insane with questions that never seem to stop. The ones that will continue to go through anyone's mind and will continue to drive them crazy until the end of this entire incident. Since he does not think he is going to start to trust them unless he gets his answers and even then it won't be enough to convince him to trust them or even knows if he can even find it in himself to do so.

The wait is not helping matters, as he starts to feel more and more suspicious and wants to know all of the answers before it drives him insane. He watches the two of them talk and simply getting along, with a sense of unsurity. He doesn't even know how to start of this entire conversation without possibly unintentionally starting an argument, but he knows that he has to find the answers before it's too late. Loki nervously approach the two and hoping that it won't lead to some kind of trouble and one that would guarantee that it would turn the twins against him or anywhere close to making things harder on all of them. That maybe he will get some right now or at least he hopes that he would...

"How long is the hide out from where we stand?" asked Loki tying to get a clear picture and to try to make the conversation as friendly as possible.

"It's only a few blocks away, not very far from here." said Wanda. "Though I do wonder what is taking Pietro so long? It shouldn't take this long for him to get there, find out everything and run back?"

"You're worried about him aren't you?" asked Darcy hoping that it will bring Wanda comfort.

"He is the only one I have left and I can't imagine a world without him." said Wanda. "We have been through everything together and he has always been there for me, I don't think I can ever forgive anyone or myself if anything happens to him.

"I see what you mean, I have hurt my brother so many times and there will be nothing that can ever repair the damage and I doubt he will want anything to do with me." said Loki. "So it would be better to protect him from the truth."

"Is it that why you chose to keep your identity a secret to protect him from what might be coming and what you believe to be best for him?" asked Wanda. "Since you seem so determined to hide him from the truth and you are more worried of what is up ahead."

"I can't afford in letting one thing slip and then he will know and the last thing I need is for him to get involved. Then he will get involved and I don't think I can ever forgive myself if he gets hurt because of me." said Loki. "The danger won't hesitate in going after him and I can't afford in allowing me to be revealed because then he will know and will try to interfere."

"So you are willing to lie to your own brother with the hope that you would keep him safe?" asked Wanda.

"I am willing to do whatever it takes to complete my quest and now to keep my presence a secret." said Loki as he crosses his arms. "I am assuming that would be the same. for you, assuming that Ultron is not making some secret plan that we might not even know about."

"Loki, let's just wait for a moment before we jump to any conclusions." said Darcy. "But still do you think Ultron might be planning something and it's a big plan and one that we need to be worried about?"

"Nothing that we haven't told you, unless something has changed since we left." said Wanda as she looks past them, hoping to see a sign of her brother coming back.

"Here is a thought, maybe he is being really careful about something and it is an issue that would bring more danger than any of us may anticipate." said Loki. "That maybe Ultron has prepared himself for anything or maybe even have a plan for the two of you and all the Avengers if and when someone tries to attack."

"He might have a point, this Ultron seems to be really smart and that alone is really scary for a robot." said Darcy. "Not that I am saying that a robot can't have a mind of their own and who knows maybe there might even be good ones out there."

"I doubt that, they are objects that have been programmed by someone or in this case something to do a specific task and follow a mission blindly." said Loki. "I honestly thought that you would know that better than anyone, since you are an expert in many technologies."

"I am mostly a hacker, but I am not the type who would give others a chance no matter who they may be." said Darcy. "Especially since we don't know what someone is like unless we really get to know them. I am willing to give them a chance before I make any judgements on whether or not they are bad news. I mean at this point anything is possible and there might be a chance there are good robots right?"

"I saw Ultron's plans to use it for destruction and even if you're right, we can't afford to take any chances." said Wanda.

"Especially if we want to get the scepter back and protect this planet." said Loki. "We have to be careful in what we do and who we trust."

"Alright, wait what do you mean by that?" asked Darcy completely confused, as Loki is about to give her a hint through his magic. Before he can even have that chance...

Pietro speeds right back and catching the three of them by surprise, both Loki and Darcy quickly exchanges a look at one another at the surprise. While Wanda races right towards her brother, relieved that he is ok and that he is back and quickly hugs him. As Loki and Darcy watches the scene, Darcy is feeling a sense of happiness as she sees the two of them reunited. That at least Pietro made it out alright and they now have their so far little squad back together, after seeing Loki, Wanda and Pietro together, she is already having some ideas that might work and one that she is not going to let go just yet...

While Loki continues to feel a little more unsure of the Maximoff twins and so far he doesn't even know what would be a good way to catch them in the act. To try to see who's side they are on and if they don't have to worry about being betrayed in some way. He takes a good look at the twins, wanting to know what the whole story and wondering if he had found out anything useful. That alone is what he only wants to find out and have it over with, since the last thing he wants to deal with anyone that might not be anywhere close to being truthful. That he would have to fight them all off and at least he hopes that he can avoid the entire confrontation and then he would have to get past that setback and fight back. The moment continues on, that is until...

"Good, you're back. Did you find out anything that we should know about or are we going to need to leave it up to chance and then hope that we will be ready for it?" asked Loki annoyed as he watches the Maximoff twins break out of the hug.

"Ultron is planning to leave tomorrow first thing in the morning, he is getting a truck prepared and secured the mechanical body." said Pietro. "I think he is not going to allow anything to happen to the body and even then the security of the facility has tightened since we left him."

"Did you see the scepter? What security did you find it under?" asked Loki wanting to know what he might have to do to break down the security

"The scepter has been destroyed."said Pietro.

"Wait, what do you mean that the scepter has been destroyed?" asked Loki wanting to know the answers right now.

"I thought the scepter has and Infinity Stone and there is no possible way anyone can destroy it." said Darcy completely confused and not even knowing what to make of it.

"Well one can destroy the object that is holding it, but there is no way anyone can try to destroy the stone without allowing it to destroy oneself." said Loki before turning to Pietro. "What happened to the stone? What did he do to it?"

"I only caught glimpses of it and from what I have seen the stone is now part of it." said Pietro. "Ultron placed the gold rock on his fantastic masterpiece."

"Wait, he placed on the body?" said Wanda in disbelief.

"Great, just what we need, an evil robot's toy lying around in our new place until we figure out what to do with it." said Darcy. "Please tell me if having that thing is not dangerous..."

"I do not think we would have to worry about as much as the other stones, except putting. it in a safe place where we won't lose it." said Loki. "We can simply remove the stone right from him."

"I thought you said that we can't remove an Infinity Stone from it's structure unless it's has something to do with figuring out the exact structure or something." said Darcy.

"Yes, it is true if it's inside the structure, but other than that unless it simply on the object that easy to see and grab, then we do not need to worry about the city facing any more damage unless it's from Ultron." said Loki. "I think I know a spell that might be able to withstand the power of the Infinity Stones, so at least I can carry it out of here for an hour at least, if I am quick and can get to the portal quickly."

"At least it's on the forehead, you don't have to worry about it becoming that much of a problem." said Pietro.

"Let's come up with a plan on how am I going to get the stone and end Ultron's insane plan before he decides to take over the world." said Darcy. "Here's an idea, why after we all save the universe, we don't start our own superhero team or in our case trio? It would be so cool and I know we'd totally be unstoppable, how does the 'Magic Speeding trio squad?'"

"Uh... what?" asked Pietro surprised, while Wanda rolled her eyes.

"Maybe you should stick to coming up with hero names and not quit whatever career path you have already chosen or your assistance with this quest." said Loki.

"Come on, it would totally work and it definitely would at least get the point." said Darcy. "I know it's not as catchy as The Avengers, but it could work and you guys being a cool superhero team would be totally amazing."

"That's quite an imagination." said Wanda who doesn't even know what to make of Darcy's excitement.

"Yeah, the idea is still a work in progress, but we can make it work." said Darcy excitedly.

"I don't think it would work, not only I am a solo hero, but it would be a little too much." said Loki. "Other than trying to create a band, we really should focus on the task at hand and maybe if we are lucky we can infiltrate the facility without any trouble."

"The problem we would need to deal with is Ultron and he has so much security." said Pietro.

"It should not be a problem, at this point Darcy and I are experts in sneaking into places undetected and this will be too easy." said Loki confidently.

"You have experience on breaking in places that the guards are alive." pointed out Wanda. "Ultron has eyes on the back of his head and he is not the type who would simply let go of the smallest details. Even then he would try to make an attack and that would be something anyone would be unprepared for."

"What if we have someone keep an eye on Ultron and then we will know exactly what is going on?" said Darcy.

"How do you propose that we do that?" said Loki.

"Maybe if we have the twins to go out there and keep an eye on things and maybe even give us daily reports?" said Darcy.

"What?" said Loki in shock as he faces the idea that he doesn't even know what to think.

"Yeah you guys go ahead and keep an eye on him, if anything happens then you guys come get us." said Darcy rather excitedly.

"What should we do if we get caught or is something happens?" asked Pietro.

"You guys can always... use your powers..." suggested Darcy.

"Darcy, I honestly do not think that it would be a good-" starts Loki right before...

"Maybe she's right, we should take this chance and it would be good to make sure that nothing happens." said Wanda. "We can try to slow down progress and make inconveniences, remember how much fun we had when we were sneaking desert?"

"We can even sleep in our old rooms and keep people away from there with your fancy mind tricks." said Pietro.

"The only downside is that you two won't have a place to stay while we keep watch." said Wanda.

"Don't worry, Loki and I will figure something out." said Darcy. "We're really resourceful when we want to be."

"Hang on, I have a couple of things to say-" starts Loki as he is about to say a couple of things right before Darcy stops him.

"We'll be fine, just come get us if something happens or in the morning, we will be fine." said Darcy. "Go out and try to keep watch, then we'll meet up in the morning once we came up with a plan."

"Alright, if you're sure?" said Wanda.

"Of course, we are not-" starts Loki before...

"Yeah, we're completely fine. Go already, we'll see you in the morning." said Darcy rather happily.

With that Pietro picks up Wanda and starts race past the the streets, heading on their way right towards the hideout and to keep an eye on Ultron. To ensure that they are still on the right track and then it will enough to succeed, that they already have eyes on the entire scene and they are one step closer on getting the stone back. While Loki is anything but pleased at how things just turned out and how they are now trusting the entire fate of not only this planet, but the stone and eventually the universe to a reckless decision and that alone is what makes him more and more worried as he continues to think of the possibility that they might get betrayed. He is feeling an anger towards Darcy that he doesn't even know what words would calm him down or if it would be enough without him finding himself getting more annoyed and he is not going to waste another second.

"Darcy, what were you thinking?!" yelled out Loki even more annoyed. "Why would you trust them that easily? Do you have any idea what position you could have put us in?"

"All I did was give them a chance and do what might be the smart thing to do." said Darcy. "If we are going to get the stone and save universe thenn we are going to need all the help we can get. They are our best chance and we can't pass up that opportunity."

"That or you have us fall right for their scam, we do not know a thing about them or if they are telling the truth." said Loki. "How do we even know if we are not being fooled? That we are not falling into some trap and we are actually helping them in whatever plan they may be hoping to succeed in?"

"But that's just thing I don't even think they are lying and we have to take a chance on them." said Darcy. "I don't know about you, but I am not getting the feel or anywhere close that they are up to something."

"Darcy, that is not a good reason to trust them or anyone for that matter." said Loki in deep frustration. "They already know so much and that includes my true identity, we do not know what they might be planning to do with that knowledge. It is dangerous to allow anyone we do not have a reason to trust to have valuable information, let alone important tasks, if things go wrong then it is going to take us forever to find the Infinity stone and-"

"Things are not going to go wrong, I have the fate that it won't go wrong, they are going to accept their second chance and that is good enough for me." said Darcy.

"That is not even a good reason to trust them, the only thing I am getting out of this discussion is that you wants to give them a second chance." said Loki. "I admit that is admirable and generous of you, but we are in a place where we can not offer to give that generosity and with one wrong move then we might be making the biggest mistakes in our lives. If they are still on Ultron's side than we need to find out and not foolishly assume they are telling the truth, we do not know if they have other motives or there might be something going on or-"

"Loki, I didn't know anything about you when we first met and that didn't stop me in giving you a second chance." said Darcy. "Sure, I didn't have a good reason or know for sure if I could, I might have even have some doubts. But that didn't stop me and things have worked out, I mean the twins and you are not that different if we stop to to think about it.

"There is nothing similar-" starts Loki ready to counter the comparison.

"Let's see, the three of you have experience of working with some big bad that would be more than happy to not only destroy this planet, but do you in as well. Let's see there's also the idea that you guys want revenge on someone that might have unintentionally hurt you and the idea that you guys are trying to make things right." said Darcy. "Not too mention, you guys have similar powers, well you and Wanda at least. But still my point being that you guys have so much in common, I don't even think that it is possible for them to be some evil villains and maybe they are just so lost by their anger and grief that they didn't realize what they were doing until Wanda saw what Ultron was really up to."

"Ok, you made a valid arguement and I can see your reasoning behind the argument." said Loki. "But that does not mean, we should foolishly rely on dumb luck and hope that everything would work out. Just because you might have been right about me, it does not mean that you are right about everyone."

"Yeah, but that shouldn't mean that we can't give someone else a chance if they really ask for it." said Darcy. "Just trust me, things will work out, I believe they can help and I am willing to give them a chance, why won't you?"

"Well it's looks like as of right now, I do not really have that much of a choice." said Loki. "I only hope that you're right and I will not be regretting all of this for you."

"I'm sure, everything will be fine." said Darcy rather confidently.

"Though, while they are keeping an eye on Ultron and his associates, we still have to find a place to stay for the night." said Loki. "Assuming that we are going to stay in this city for the night?"

"Yeah, since we're here and Ultron is planning to attack this place tomorrow." said Darcy. "Though I wish I had more time to prepare for this."

"So you do not know if there might be a worthy place for us to spend the night?" asked Loki already having a bad feeling about this.

"Well... Why don't you patrol the city for a sign of an Ultron attack." said Darcy as she tries to look confident and sees Loki looking completely unsure. "I'm sure, I will find something that will make us feel right at home and give us five star acomadations."

---

A Few hours later

"I can not believe that this is the best you could do." said Loki so annoyed that even he is wondering if he'll ever be in a good mood again.

"Sorry, everywhere else is booked and you won't believe how there's almost nothing for tourists over here." said Darcy. "It's not like I can just go over and kick someone out of a hotel room and even then it is a dump."

"At least it would have been better than this, I may have not been on this planet for long but even I know humans wouldn't want to stoop this low." said Loki completely displeased. "This has to be the worst place I have ever slept in, I do not even know how you can stay this optimistic without losing your mind."

"Look at the bright side... At least it's free..." said Darcy trying to keep her optimism up.

Loki turns to point out where they are staying at, from one sight it does not seem like anyone's perfect vacation spot. They are now trying to make themselves comfortable at the park in the downtown area. Darcy tried to go find every hotel and anything that would guarantee that they have a place to stay and everything is all booked and Seoul doesn't seem to have a high tourist rate to even bother staying in the city. The best she can do is think of something that she knows that neither of them finds at all appealing, sleeping outside. Despite how much Darcy is now dreading this, she knows that they have to stay and be ready for anything. The two of them need to make the most of this until she finds something that would work or at least let it be fine for the night at least. Though some positivity wouldn't hurt and maybe she can lighten up the mood that is in desperate need to be lightened up. For the sake of both their sanities in the morning...

"Of course, you can see that no one would pay to stay here. It is a park, a public area where one goes to for pleasure and enjoying." Said Loki. "You could have at least gotten us a place where we have a roof."

"Sorry, this is literally the best I could have done and even then it's only for one night." Said Darcy. "Here's an idea why don't you use your ice powers to build an ice palace for us? That way not only we will have a place to sleep in for the night, but we would also have a cool experience and actually enjoy it."

"I can't because not only it's too dangerous, I doubt that I have enough experience to even make it possible and it would melt." Said Loki. "Those abilities are only good for destruction and the last thing we need is to lose the robots before we can have the opportunity to do anything."

"But have you ever used these powers is see for yourself what you might be capable of?" Asked Darcy.

"The first time I used these abilities I froze Hiemdell." Said Loki rather casually.

"Ok, maybe freezing people isn't exactly what I had in mind for good uses." Said Darcy. "But we can still use the whole freezing thing and learn what other things that it can be cool to use it for."

"I do not think this curse has any potential to be used for good." Said Loki. "If anything we are just lucky that I have my magic, so that way I would never have a need to use it."

"I am sure there has to be something and I am not going to give up until I find something great." Said Darcy. "Wait before you start doubting yourself a little too hard and ban yourself from using those powers for life."

"You can try if you wish, I am not going to stop you." Said Loki. "Now to try to make this anymore tolerable, I have already created an illusion to make us practically invisible and not allow anyone to come to this area. So that way, I can not only take my mask off but to not be seen that way by the robots and others."

"Right, we can't have that." Said Darcy in a almost joking matter.

"Well we can't, it's humiliating." Said Loki. "I was a prince of Asgard and now disguising myself as a superhero. I don't see the other Avengers making themselves comfortable and taking a nap on park benches."

"Well, I'm sure they are flexible when it comes to these things." Said Darcy. "Come on Loki, it is just one night. Plus didn't you and Thor go on some camping trips when you were younger or the two of you have to go on some quests that requires you guys to stay somewhere outside overnight?"

"They were mostly for a better reason than this, it is always a quest that leads to find something or a trip for the two of us to enjoy each other's company." Said Loki. "It was never something of this magnitude or discomfort."

"Let's try to make it comfortable than." Said Darcy as she tries to get everything all set up. "I can safely assume that you can create blankets and pillows out of thin air."

"Not out of thin air, but I can summon them and easily." Said Loki as he quickly uses his magic to summon some blankets and pillows for the two of them, he also takes off the Mysto cape in hopes that it would be a good blanket for him, while Darcy can have most work of the ones he summoned.

"Now that's so cool." Said Darcy amazed before getting concerned by Loki's kind gesture. "Wait, these are most of the blankets you just conjured up. Don't you want some of them? Won't you be cold?"

"I have always been far more comfortable in the cold and could be standing there for hours without feeling any discomfort." Said Loki. "Though I can not say the same about the sun or any summer heat. It is a nightmare to stand around in, let alone try any other activities."

"You're more of a winter person." Said Darcy.

"Of course, it has always been my favorite out of the four seasons." Said Loki. "I am assuming that it must be due to my heritage, I always did have a fondness for it and I do not think I mind it."

"See now that's one good thing about your Jontun abilities, so far I am on a roll." said Darcy rather happily and Loki can't help but to smile back at her. "I can't believe that we are actually doing this, though maybe next time we might be lucky and go somewhere that is much cooler and maybe we can turn it into a fun trip."

"If only we can afford that kind of luxury, but with the situation at hand, we need to focus on not only on getting this stone, the next and possibly having to face Thanos." said Loki. "I doubt anyone can truly relax without having to put their guard down and risk a chance to fail and not allowing yourself to succeed in your mission and never being free from it."

"I'm guessing that you had a rotten time with Thanos?" asked Darcy as she starts to try to create a bed for herself with the blankets. "I mean from how you want to avoid him like a plague and how you seem to be uncomfortable if we try to talk about him."

"I am not bothered by Thanos and I am definitely not afraid to face him." said Loki rather defensively.

"Never said that you were." said Darcy.

"I didn't mean that exactly." said Loki not even knowing what to say.

"Then what did you mean?" asked Darcy trying to see if Loki would be willing to open up and maybe learn the real story.

"It does not matter, right now my main priority is to get this task over with and then maybe it would be enough." said Loki. "We might finally put a stop to this and... it will finally be enough."

"Hey, we will pull this off and then you will no longer have to worry about Thanos anymore." said Darcy. "That is if something happened between you and him, not that I am assuming anything or something. But just know if you ever want to talk, I'm here."

"Darcy... Just know that everything is complicated and we can not afford to lose, I... do not know what will happen if we fail and the risk is growing every day." said Loki as he turns away, not even knowing what words would be enough before deciding to change the subject. "So, you know everything about me and I do not know anything about you other than your fascination of heroes, your skills in technology and you being friends with my brother and love of his life. What is your story?"

"Trust me, my story is pretty boring compared to yours." said Darcy. "No evil alien overlords are coming after me."

"True, but I would still like to know more about you." Said Loki. "We are on the same team and we are friends, yet I still feel as though I barely know who you are or understand why you would help me. At first I thought it was to fulfill your superhero fantasy, but now I feel that there is something more than that."

"To be honest, I don't know and it is really complicated to say the least." Said Darcy. "Just wait until all of this is over and ask me the last part again."

"Fair deal, but you still haven't told me a bit about you." Said Loki. "So what do you do for a living?"

"Well currently I am a intern for Jane and that's basically a work experience that I get to hang out with her for a while until my time is done." Said Darcy. "The cool thing is I finally made some friends during this entire thing, after not fitting in when it comes to as many would put it, 'perky.'"

"You are not perky, you are just being yourself and that alone is alright, it's more than alright." Said Loki who doesn't even know what perky May mean, but he knows that Darcy is not that.

"Yeah, I mean there is nothing wrong with wanting to be yourself." Said Darcy. "Though at least I don't have to deal them anymore, I can always try to blackmail them by offering Thor's autograph or something."

"I do not believe that is exactly what blackmail means." Said Loki. "Maybe you should try something more mischievous or better yet say that you would say horrible things to Thor about them and maybe-"

"I am not going to go that far, now that would fall into bullying." Said Darcy.

"Right, you would be falling right into the path of revenge and that would be against your nature." Said Loki. "I am assuming that you want to be a scientist as well? Seeing that you are following Jane's footsteps and being her apprentice of sorts."

"Well I was the only applicant, so she had to take me." Said Darcy. "I really don't know to be honest, I was a political science major and I got a taste of what being a scientist is like. As exciting as going around doing experiments and following Jane on going after readings that might lead to the occasional Asgardian. But over time, I start to realize how much I enjoy working with tech and have been teaching myself on some things and every single time, I just find myself loving it."

"Well you are doing a good job thus far, it did help us get the scepter even if we did lose it in the end. But you have talent and that alone can allow you to pursue any goal that you may want to go on." said Loki as he continues on the conversation.

"Yeah, I mostly enjoy the tech side and diving into it, I mean you won't believe how many modifications I made on Jane's equipment when she was missing Thor before he came back." said Darcy. "I don't know why I was doing all that but it did help a lot when we were battling Dark Elves."

"I know it did, you did manage to find me with those devices, you should really pursue a career in it if you enjoy it so much." said Loki.

"Really? You think I am that good?" said Darcy really touched by Loki's words of encouragement.

"Of course, I would never lie when it comes to complimenting talent. I may have only been in this planet for a few weeks and not know that much of it's technology." said Loki. "But I do know how to recognize talent and I believe that you have potential to do great things if you really want it."

"Wow thanks, I never really thought that anyone would ever think that my skills would be anywhere close to being good." said Darcy. "I guess maybe I do have some hidden talents of my own."

"Maybe, at least you are doing a good job in proving humans wrong. I never expected for this planet is full of surprised." said Loki. "This town is different in comparison to the ones that I have been to and even then there are more than I must still not know about this planet and I do not even know where else to start."

"It is full of surprises, but then again you also have been to only a few cities and haven't seen the entire place yet." said Darcy.

"True, maybe during my spare time, I should learn more about this planet and see what else it may have in store." said Loki

"You'd be surprise, as long as you don't break someone's hand again then you should learn more about this planet." said Darcy.

"That was completely an accident and I did say I was sorry." said Loki.

"Yeah I know, but someone had to bring it up and that has to be me." said Darcy. "But at least you were able to fix things and I won't have to worry about having to go out of my way on making excuses and being out of the job for both Jane and Infinity Stone hunting for the next couple of weeks."

"Though we still have to worry about all of the problems that are now right in front of us and that alone is not going to be easy." said Loki.

"I know but we will be ready to face it, as long as we stick together than there won't be anything we can't do." said Darcy. "We are a good team so far or at least I think we are and at least we are steps closer to finally getting all of them."

"Then we will have to worry about breaking in the most dangerous place in the known universe and possibly facing Thanos, oh joy." said Loki rolling his eyes on the last part.

"But still maybe while we are going around looking for the last stone and preparing for that, we can hang out more and try to make it more fun?" suggested Darcy.

"I do not think that would be a wise decision, we are here to get the stone and then later we would have to find the next one." Said Loki. "We can not be foolish with our time or afford to lose a second of our time."

"I am not saying that we would be wasting time, I am just saying that we might want to take a break and if we can just hang out whenever we are not going after the stones or you having to be Mysto." Said Darcy. "I mean everyone needs a break, even super heroes and we can always take one right?"

"I wish it was that simple..." said Loki. "That I can solve all of this in a day and then we no longer have to worry about this any longer."

"We will defeat Thanos, no matter what it may take." Said Darcy. "Just believe I have your back and I will be ready to help you in whatever we might face next."

"We should call it a night, we have a busy day ahead of us and need to be ready and well rested for it." Said Loki not even sure how to make of Darcy's kindness. "The illusion will keep us well hidden and I also placed a shield over us in case we may be in for rain. If luck, we won't be woken up by a pandemonium of robots attacking here."

"Alright, but note I will be here for you through all of this and beyond." Said Darcy rather happily, before she takes notice of something. "So who is going to take the bench?"

"You can take it if you want, I will sleep on the ground." Offered Loki.

"Wait, what? Are you sure about that?" Asked Darcy completely surprised. "I know that you have high standards and might want a for real bed or at least close to one."

"Really, I insist. There is grass on the ground and that might be enough to make it comfortable." Said Loki. "Besides I am used to sleeping on the ground if needed to and I might as well at least make the most of it. This is the least I can do as a thank you for what you are trying to do for me."

"Looks like you can be a Prince Charming when you want to be." Said Darcy. "Are you really sure about this?"

"Of course, I insist." Said Loki as he made himself comfortable on the ground and is ready to get some sleep.

"Uh alright... Thanks." Said Darcy as places her makeshift bed on the park bench and got herself on it. "Night, Loki."

"Good night." Said Loki as he lets his thoughts fill his head and does not even know how he is going to make any of this.

He is surprised that it came across his mind to allow Darcy to have the bench. He has never thought that he would ever do something so generous and feel good about it. Loki doesn't even know why he would even do it or if he has completely lost his mind. Especially remembering that he was the reason why Darcy nearly suffered an injury and at first he thought that it was nothing more than guilt and it was bubbling right inside him. Now he is feeling something else and the question is what was it?

That is unless it was nothing more than some fondness for Darcy and he is just only showing her his appreciation. It has to be it and the only explanation he can think of. Since he can't imagine to have these type of emotions for only a friend and how they are starting to become even stronger as the days are passing by. Though he is trying his best and as hard as he can to break out of trying to form any attachments. Loki does not want to form a bond that will be hard to break out of once he leaves. Since not only it would be easier to let go, but he would also have his focus on the mission at hand and nothing but it. Though that does not mean he is going to abandon Darcy and will look out for her in return for her kindness. That will be enough and then in time, any lingering attachment will fade right before he leaves Earth, the last thing he needs is to get hurt by all of this.

Though Loki knows that he is not going to solve anything if he just lies down and thinks about Darcy. They have important matters to deal with and he can not afford to let sentiment cloud his judgement. He does not know how he is planning to deal with Ultron, the other robots and possibly the Maximoffs and the Avengers. But he does know that he is going to have to deal with it in the morning and try to get some sleep. That is he can even get any before morning comes, especially with all the thoughts that are going through his mind and how he is now on the grassy ground and trying to make himself comfortable and yet clean at the same time. At least this is only for one night and that would be more than enough for him.

---

The Next morning

Despite their unplanned stay in the park, both Loki and Darcy surprisingly have a good night sleep. That they are both well rested and somewhat relaxed by the night they have spent in the park. Loki slowly starts to wake from his slumber and basically starts to get up. Relieved to see that the spells were still in tact and that the attack hasn't started yet. He got up and makes the blankets disappear from the ground. Loki wants to remove the spell, so that way he can simply just walk right out of the area to see what's going on. But he can't break the spell just yet, since Darcy still haven't woken up and might want to have a couple minutes for herself and to get ready.

So he decides to get ready for the day, he puts his cape right back on the costume and uses his magic to work out the details of his hair. To try to keep it as presentable as possible, even if he would have to wear a mask over it, Loki doesn't want to have to deal with a tangled mess. He figures that he might as well take a brief walk and try to find some food. But if he is going to do it, then he might want to let Darcy know before he goes anywhere. That is if he wants to wake her up, then it would make this long morning even longer.

Though Loki didn't have to wait that long, since Darcy is starting to wake up. She moves out of the blankets to stretch her arms and is trying to get over the daze sleep that she is still feeling. Simply reaching into her back pack to grab a comb and starts to brush her hair a bit, until she reaches something that makes her feel right and let her hair lose, as she always finds herself in doing. Finally done, she heads right over to Loki and ready to start the day.

"Morning, so did anything happen while I was asleep?" Said Darcy rather happily.

"No, I am glad that the morning is off to a good start." Said Loki. "So far, I have not seen a huge catastrophe beginning and we are still safe from anything that may be going on in the world."

"That's good, now all we have to do is hunt down the twins and then the four of us can put our heads together and come up with a plan." Said Darcy.

"I still do not see why you would be so eager to trust them, but you are right, we still need to find them and get some answers." Said Loki as he makes the remaining blankets disappear. "But first we need to take down this spell and illusion. Are you ready?"

"As I'll ever be." Said Darcy.

Without another word, Loki quickly removes the spell and made both Darcy and himself visible again. They are relieved to see that no one else is in the park aside from them and they can get to action. Today is the big day, one where the fate of the last Infinity Stone hangs in the balance and one wrong move then it would lead to the entire situation in a difficult place. They need to grab the next Infinity Stone before it's too late.

Both of them know that if they are going to leave then they are going to need to leave right now. Then they will do whatever they may need to do and with the hope that they can somehow succeed in their mission and be one step closer to getting to the next stage of their quest. That they will have the stone back, defeat these robots and be done. Especially with the many things at stake and it is all up to them to make sure that they do everything they have to do in order to protect the universe. Before Loki and Darcy can say anything to one another or even make their way through the park to reach the city and then try to find where Ultron might be hiding themselves...

Out of nowhere, they see something faster than the speeding light races towards them. Loki got into position ready to fight and used his magic to bring out his daggers, ready to fight. Suddenly the light stops right in front of them and reveals that it was Wanda and Pietro. They both seem to be exhausted and look as though they were running all over the place all morning, but if one remembers Pietro's powers, than that seems more than likely. They also notice that the two of them brought bags with them and Darcy can't help but smile at the mere of the bags, hoping that there would be something for the two of them. While Loki eyes them a little annoyed and becomes even more suspicious of the two, quietly hoping that Darcy is right and yet still remains on his guard.

"There you two are, we have been looking for you for over an hour." Said Wanda. "We have so much to tell you and we don't have that much time."

"But first, we brought you guys breakfast." Said Pietro handing them a bag.

"Wow, this is is awesome thanks. Ooh muffins!" Said Darcy happily right before Loki quickly grabs the bag away from her.

"Careful, we do not know if it's something that might hurt us." Said Loki not even wanting to take a chance until he uses his magic to make sure that it's safe.

"Why would they poison us?" Asked Darcy not even knowing what to make of Loki's distrust.

"Maybe there is some ulterior motives that we do not know about and can not risk taking the chance." Said Loki. "In case you have not come to this conclusion, they have done nothing to prove that we can."

"You guys do know that we're standing right here right?" Said Pietro, with both of them turning to face the two.

"He's right, they have no reason to trust us." Said Wanda. "We have only proven exactly what Loki thinks of us, that even when we try to show a hint of kindness, it might not be enough to convince anyone."

"Loki didn't mean anything like that exactly." Said Darcy trying to smooth out any drama that Loki might have unintentionally caused. "I think that-"

"It's alright, just give us a chance to prove to you that we are on your side." said Wanda, Loki stares at her completely unsure until he hears loud eating sounds right next to him.

"Darcy! What are you doing?!" said Loki in shock at her.

"What? We haven't had anything but granola bars and I am starving." said Darcy as she continues to eat the food that is in the bag. "As you can see it's not poisoned and safe and delicious to eat."

"Glad you are enjoying it." said Wanda happy that at least one of them is willing to give them a chance.

"So Loki, what do you say?" asked Pietro. "Are you in?"

"Only because you two have vital information that will help us get the Infinity Stone back and I prefer it if we come up with a plan now before we are under attack." said Loki.

He starts to find himself relunctantly agreeing to grab something to eat, though deep down he is hoping that he is not making a mistake. As he grabs whatever is appetizing and eyeing the twins carefully as they reach into the other bag to grab some toast, Darcy finds a plate and fills a plate with whatever she can find that is appetizing. Loki is trying his best to ignore the urge to eat and to remain strong, but the look of the food is so appetizing and seeing then all eat together with the twins even reaching out to their bag for whatever they can find, with the dominating hunger taking over all of his common sense, he soon finds himself eating whatever he can find.

"I have to say that whatever place you got us this food, it's awesome, maybe we can hang out like this again after all of this is over." said Darcy happily. "I never thought that this place would have great places to eat."

"Yeah Pietro and I managed to find this bakery of sorts whenever Ultron allowed us to leave for a break." said Wanda. "It may not be much, but it is precious to see what freedom might bring."

"Just wait till all of this is over, then you guys will never have to worry about any one keeping you guys locked up again." said Darcy as she adds reassurance to the twins with the hope that they would gain some comfort.

"Aside from the ittilary of what you all are planning to do to celebrate Ultron's defeat, what did you both find out?" asked Loki as he enjoys a bagel. "What is Ultron's plans for this morning that might guarantee in this planet's destruction?"

"He is planning to move the body today, when we left he was already setting up a truck and they are planning to leave in an hour." said Pietro. "They are planning to take it to an unknown location. If we hurry then we might be able to catch them in time, we already got the route and we can get there if we hurry."

"Do you guys know if the Avengers know?" ask Darcy rather nervously.

"We have seen no sign of them and Ultron does not seem to be anywhere close on being worried." said Pietro.

"So far so good." said Darcy as she sees Loki gives a sigh of relief.

"How far is his hide out? If he is set to move this quickly then it would be best if we move right now." said Loki. "We can not afford to lose another second if they are planning to leave in an hour."

"Fortunately, it is not that far from here and it is only a ten minute walk to get there." said Wanda.

"Well a ten second run if you have super speed." said Darcy as she points out one of the most obvious facts that is right there.

"After we eat this food, then we should head over there and see what would be the best thing for us to do." said Loki. "Darcy and I still have yet to see this facility and would need to see more than simply hearing it from both of you, then once we are there, then we will come up with a plan that might work."

"Alright, that might work." said Wanda as she sees the plan so far.

"So, now that we know what's going on, let's eat." said Darcy happily.

Without another word, the four of them start to enjoy their meal and have a few minutes of peace before they have to go out there and put a stop to the entire situation. They all know that they still have a long way to go and there is no telling what they will face or if they will be ready for what might be up ahead. But what other choice do either of them have? The twins are ready to fix their mistakes and Loki and Darcy wants to get the next Infinity Stone before things get even more complicated and then get back on track. But either way, they all know that they are going to have to stop Ultron in order to complete their goals and with hope that they can somehow manage to do so, they all start to enjoy the meal they are now all sharing together with the hope that they will get through this and succeed. They just have to...

---

Ten Minuetes later

The twins leads Loki and Darcy right into Ultron's hideout and they can see that the trucks are now being filled with many pieces of technology, a large box that must hold the body and the Infinity Stone and so many robots keeping guard of the entire facility. It looks like Ultron has prepared the facility for anything and he is not the type that any of them should underestimate. The robots are standing still, not even bothering to move from their post and to protect the precious cargo that is now on its way to wherever Ultron is planning for it to be transported to. To give it the security that Ultron thinks that might be needed to make sure that his new body will be safe from destruction and the Avengers. But little does he know, that there is already a few that are ready to stand in his way and make sure that he doesn't get far.

Loki starts to take a good look at the entire facility and how it works and to spot any weak spots that might give them the upper advantage. So far he is seeing that there is not many or if there might even be some cord or way to shut down all of these robots instantaneously without having to destroy every single one of them. But he does think it might be possible for all of them to highjack the truck that carries the body and the Infinity Stone. Then they can at least have the stone with them and figure out what they should do with the body later, right now they have to figure out somehow or at least hope that they will be able to somehow succeed in one way or another. He keeps his focus on the scene, with the hope that he would be able to somehow figure out a perfect plan and so far he is already getting the elements of a potentially good plan on the horizon.

"So Loki, is this what it's like to get out of your comfort zone and fight off something you probably don't want to fight?" said Darcy. "As much as I think that fighting off evil robots is cool, but I don't think I want to deal with a robot that wants to destroy all of humanity. Even though we don't know who created this thing, but I know that he needs to be stopped." said Darcy before turning to the twins. "Do you guys have any idea on how these things were created?"

"We have an idea, but we are just as unsure as you are." Said Wanda. "At first we thought that Stark might have been responsible for this."

"Wait, you honestly think that Tony Stark, the protector of innocents, an Avenger and someone many people idolize created Ultron?" Asked Loki in complete disbelief. "Do you have a grudge so large that it blinds you from seeing the truth of many matters and blame Stark for every single thing?"

"It what we first thought, due to his past in weaponry and him creating the big metal flying suit." Said Pietro. "Plus we thought it would have been ironic if we help his technology to take him down."

"Ok, that's dark and surprisingly makes sense. But still maybe there is more to it." Said Darcy. "Maybe there is a way to fix Ultron and somehow turn him into our side."

"I honestly doubt that Darcy, the machines do not seem the ones that anyone can easily reprogram." Said Loki. "They are the one that would even take the time to reason with anyone and if anything they would try to hurt anyone that may try to stand in their way."

"Ultron is a monster, all I saw was pain and destruction on his mind and there was nothing left." Said Wanda. "He's someone or rather something that shouldn't have been built in the first place. Who does not care what happens and will not show any sympathy to others. I wouldn't even show it to him."

"Yeah, but if he was just created then maybe we can teach him to do the right thing and get him on our side." Said Darcy. "I mean you guys made mistakes and turn out alright. Loki, you were a former villain and look how much you have started to change ever since the moment we met and even before then. There could be good in Ultron right?"

"I was different, I slowly started to see the error of my ways and chose to leave that life behind, as well as go on the path that I am now embarking on. Plus the last time I check I am also a living being, I at least have the brain and emotions to change." Said Loki. "While Ultron is nothing more than a machine, he doesn't think or feel. So he can never change no matter how much we may want to."

"Just because he's a robot and his army are robots, that does not mean they are all bad news." Said Darcy trying to be on the defense of this.

"Well these ones are all bad news and we should be focusing on how we should stop them." Said Pietro. "At they will never see any of us coming."

"Facing these pieces of machinery are the least of my worries." Said Loki as he turns to Wanda. "Are you sure that the Avengers are not coming or know anything about this?"

"Yes, I don't think they gotten any indication that they know and on their way." Said Wanda, she quickly got her hands up to start to wave her powers around and allow her to see through their minds. "So far, so good, none of the Avengers are anywhere in area."

"Good, the last thing we need is to make this any more difficult than it needs to be." Said Loki. "If luck is is on our side then this will be over before they get involved."

Darcy turns and from a quick glance, she notices that Loki looks deeply uncomfortable about something and is trying to remain indifferent. Though she feels as though he is hiding his true feelings and know why, especially remembering how he ran into Thor before the scepter got stolen and the robots started their attack. She knows how much deep down the interaction might have affected him. Especially knowing how determined Loki is in keeping everything a secret and not letting Thor find out about anything of what's going on. Maybe that is what bothering him and she can try to let him know that there still might be a chance or at least comfort him.

"Hey Loki, if that's about seeing Thor again, you don't have to hide from him." Said Darcy. "Not only because you're Mysto, but he's your brother and he would want to know you're alive."

"He can't and I do not think that he will ever know. That is something I most deeply regret, but this is for the best." Said Loki. "The best for the quest and the best for Thor."

"Is it really for the best?" Asked Darcy. "That it is the best for Thor and the stones? Is it really the best for you? Seeing you hurting yourself because you are too afraid to go out there and try to make things right?"

"I need to keep my identity a secret, otherwise it might unintentionally help Thanos in ways that may cause him more pain. I have to fix any of my wrongdoings and try to undo the pain that I inflicted and to protect him and others from a threat I helped create." Said Loki who finds himself blurting out a part of himself that he has been keeping inside and wonders if he can convince and ask Wanda if she can erase that part of their memories or at least hers,Darcy, Pietro's memory before needing to rebuild a new scepter.

"Loki, what's going on with Thanos was never your fault." Said Darcy trying to be reassuring. "I'm sure he was looking for the stones before and even now without your help."

"I sped things up and- it does not matter, nothing will change it, I lost my brother and I will never get the life that I once had." Said Loki. "I think the best thing to do is come up with a plan to get the stone and then figure out what might be best way to stop Ultron."

"Wait Loki-" starts Darcy.

"All we need is to get on that truck and then grab a hold of the body, once we get the Infinity Stone, we will have the entire package and that includes the body that would be too dangerous especially if we let it fall to Ultron's hands." Said Loki trying to fight off any emotion to focus on the task at hand. "I think the best thing for us to do is to destroy it, the very moment we get it. If we do that then we will have one less thing to worry about."

"Loki, I do not think that might be-" starts Darcy not wanting to drop the conversation.

"The plan I just cam up is relatively simple, Wanda you will sneak into the truck right before they start to drive it away, you will need to use your magic to break open the doors." Said Loki. "While Pietro runs over to help you carry the body out of the truck. To the vehicle that is right next to the truck, which Darcy will 'borrow' one of the big trucks that had the long metal cariers that those ones are using. We will drive up close enough to not only place the body on to it, but for me to get close enough to Ultron."

"Hey Loki, not that I want to stop the awesome plotting or plan making, I don't know exactly what heroes would call it." Starts Darcy. "But I still think that we should have a chance to talk about what's really going on and-"

"What is there to talk about? You know what I did and hurt my brother in more ways that anyone with a decent mind would consider it as unforgivable." said Loki as he not even bothering to hide his emotions. "Do not get me started on how I made this situation far worse than it may need to be and I also dragged you to this 'mess' and may have dragged you into more danger when you should be living a normal life than be in this situation because of me."

"You know, if it makes you feel any better, I really like my new life. It's really exciting and I never had this much fun ever or been to all of these places, I never thought that I would be going out there and doing all of these things and it's been amazing." said Darcy trying to see if she can lighten Loki's mood. "Plus even if you don't want to make the big reveal yet or ever, you can always have a friendship with Thor and try to make things right as Mysto."

"There is no point Darcy, that will only just lead to more pain and if Thor ever finds out then he will not simply let it go. He'll be furious and will never forgive me for as long as I live and I would not blame him if he feels that way and I would not be surprised if he will." said Loki. "There is also the fact that Thanos is out there and once he comes, then he is never going to leave us alone. I already let my mother die because of my carelessness and I do not plan on letting my brother and my friend meet the same fate, especially knowing that everything is my fault to begin with and-"

Before Loki can say another word, Darcy just throws her arms around him and hugs him. Loki does not know what to make of this or what he should even do at this moment, since he has never really received this comfort or be anywhere close in wanting to listen to what he may have to say. The only ones that were willing to listen to him was Thor and his mother, they were always there for him even if he kept trying to push them away, they never try to abandon him. Unlike Odin, Sif and the Warriors Three who refuses to understand and he always finds himself on the receiving end of the later two's mockery. But here Darcy is being a friend and not even asking for anything in return. Loki does not know why she would want to be his friend or why he cares about her so much, but for now he is grateful to have someone like her on his side. Though that doesn't add to his discomfort or know what to do, Loki is just grateful that his arms are out of Darcy's grasp, then he can escape if necessary...

"None of this is your fault and everything is going to be ok, Loki. Even if things may not seem like it right now, but it will be alright in the end." said Darcy reassuringly rubbing his back giving him comfort. "I promise."

Loki continues to feel a sense of unsureness by Darcy's words and her comfort, at the same time he is also feeling touched by her words. He is starting to feel that maybe things won't be so bad and no matter what happens, at least he will have Darcy by his side and is about to hug her back. But only to stop himself, to now allow him to get close because of the fact he has to deal with Thanos and Ultron at the moment and no one is safe from the danger as long as they are around to destroy anything to meet their goals. Not even caring what the potential consequences may be for the many around them and Loki is now starting to wonder if he was like that back in Asgard and New York, with that in mind, he gently push Darcy from him and break out of the hug, not even knowing what to think or say as many emotions go through his mind.

"Wow, I did not see that coming." said Pietro, as both Loki and Darcy turn and see the Maximoff twins, briefly forgetting they were there.

"Thank you for all that..." starts Loki trying to find the right words and trying to regain some dignity. "As nice as whatever we are going to call this was... We really should get into position and prepare for the attack, I do not intend to leave this place empty handed. Let's do this before Ultron finds out we're here..."

Without another word, Loki starts to head down the hill to try to find a truck for him and Darcy to sneak right into. The twins (including Pietro) and Darcy are now following him. They are set to push their plan forward with hopes that they will somehow be able to pull it off. Then they will all be close to completing their goals and hopefully defeat Ultron in the process. Darcy is about to continue walking, right before she notices that the twins stop for a moment. She heads right over to them, to see what and if anything may be happening and knows that there is more that is going on and try to be a friend for the two. Once she reaches up to them...

"Are you two together?" Asked Wanda. "Judging the way you two are close and might even becoming closer..."

"What? No, we're just friends nothing more!" Said Darcy as she tries to shake off the intense awkwardness she is now feeling and be upfront dismissive of it. "A guy and a girl can be really good and close friends without having all of that can't they? Loki and I are no where close to that, if anything we're the rebels that march to the beat of our own drum. We are not anything like that..."

From one look at both Wanda and Pietro, Darcy quickly realize that she did not do a good job with the explanation. If anything, it only convinces the twins the exact opposite and is giving each other a knowing glance at one another. She does not know what to say, if Darcy tries to argue against their speculations than it would only convince them even further. But she doesn't want them to believe anything that is not true and Darcy doesn't even know what to think of that idea or how to feel. The situation starts to grow into an awkward state and before Darcy can even find the words to say anything...

"Can we get a move on? I do not want to risk our chances and lose the battle before it has even begun." Called out Loki right up in front of them

"You guys heard him, let's get going." Said Darcy hastily, grateful that Loki interrupted and his determination to end all of this so he wouldn't be Mysto anymore.

She starts to follow right after Loki as fast as she can. Hoping that this will drop the main conversation at the moment, that they can all simply focus on the mission. Then they can simply go and do the plan, maybe if they are lucky than they may be able to pull it off and that will be the end of it. They have to stop Ultron before it's too late, if they fail then Ultron will destroy everything and then it will lead to Thanos getting all of the Infinity Stones rather easily and then the universe will be doomed. But there is no way either one of them is going down without a fight and will defeat Ultron, along with maybe try to figure out what's going on between them on the way.

---

A Half Hour Later

They all quickly got into positions, Wanda got into the truck, ready for her part to happen. While Pietro is hiding, waiting for the trucks to start to move and then help his sister get the cargo out. After making sure that the twins are safe in their locations and going into detail what their role is going to be, Loki and Darcy leaves them and starts to head their way to find a truck for their role in the plan.

So far from what they are seeing, they are having bad luck with trying to find one that is perfect. If it has the perfect size for them to carry the body that holds the Infinity Stone then it's too old and has a guarantee that it would break down or it's too small and yet would run smoothly. Every single car, pick up or truck turns out to be a disappointment and they are starting to search quicker, as every second feels more heavier the next. Ultron could get them all to leave at any moment and with the twins regardless on what side they may be on. If they fail then the Stone will be lost and they will be right back where they started.

"At the rate we are going, we will never find a mode of transportation we can use to catch up to the truck." Said Loki not even bothering to hide his annoyance.

"Tell me about it, these guys really took all of the good stuff." Said Darcy. "How does this Ultron expect anyone to drive if the cars keep breaking down? Unless maybe you can do something with your magic that might help us out in this situation?"

"Even if I wanted to, I do not think I know a spell that might possibly work that would guarantee that it might make it move safely." Said Loki. "I can always use telekinesis to try to see if I can move the car with it. Unless you are in the mood to have me accidentally drive off a bridge."

"Yeah, we really don't want that." Said Darcy. "Maybe if we- Wow, look at that one, it's perfect!"

They see a perfectly brand new pick up truck that looks as the many one would see in the car commercials and it is so new and clean that it shines right in front of them. As Loki heads closer towards the car, he has to admit that he finds the car really nice and if he actually knew how to drive then he would have been more than happy to have it. At least judging from Darcy's reaction, it might work and they can easily catch up to the truck. Then again he doesn't even know anything about cars or how they function, maybe once all of this is over then maybe he should ask Darcy how they work and learn more about it's function, once this is all over. But first they are going to need to somehow open the door and start the car, he think he might know a spell...

"This looks promising..." said Loki with a smile. "Now to open it, lucky for us I know the perfect spell that would-"

Before Loki has a chance to finish what he is saying, he notices Darcy leaning towards the car door and not letting her concentration break for a second. Loki notices that she is using one of the hair clips that she she often use to to keep it in place and presentable. From one look he does not even know what to think and wonders what Darcy is doing and how she is planning on opening the door with nothing but a metal pin?

Suddenly... The door clicks and the next thing he knows is that Darcy is opening the door right open, to much of his surprise. Loki stares at the sight of the car and what Darcy was able to pull off without magic and through quick intellect, he has to admit, he is impressed by the sight and what Darcy just did. He does not expect humans to have the skills to be this sneaky, though she did help him so many times, at this point he really needs to stop underestimating her intelligence and now seeing it as one of the best parts about her and that she is tougher than she looks...

"See, the car's open and I did it without magic!" said Darcy happily as she heads right down to the driver seat and with Loki slowly following behind her to the other front seat. "You're welcome."

"How did you do that?" asked Loki simply as he makes himself comfortable in the front seat.

"I just picked the lock, it is a really simple trick that I taught myself when I accidentally lock myself out of the bathroom. I use it only for emergencies not for anything unless it's for something important like something cool like this." said Darcy and she quickly notices something and picks it up to show Loki. "Luckily for us, who ever owns this car left their keys in here. So we can start this thing and drive to victory."

"This is... really impressive." said Loki.

"I knew you might think this would be cool." said Darcy happily and quickly notices that the trucks starting to leave the facility. "I think it's time for us to get this awesome chase joyride thing started!"

"Do you know how to drive?" asked Loki who is starting to have some second thoughts.

"Yeah, at this point I am sort of a pro driver." said Darcy rather confidently.

Loki looks at Darcy feeling completely unsure and before he can even say anything, Darcy turns on the engine and steps on the breaks. The car is speeding right after the trucks, with Darcy having the intent to catch up. The faster the truck goes, they follow right behind with Darcy enjoying every moment, while Loki hoping that the next part will be over, already fearing for both of their lives. The truck goes up a highway, to try to reach an airport and to throw anyone who may be following them off. Only for the car to follow them and not even backing down, Darcy keeps her eyes on the road to not lose the truck.

Even then the chase is becoming harder by the minute, especially with it now taking place on a big highway that is at least ten feet up in the air. Darcy goes around cars and tries to race across different lanes to try to catch up. But it is getting harder and harder by the minute, that it is getting to the point that they would need to be very careful as they continue to drive on the highway and reach closer to the truck. They notices that Pietro is racing right beside the truck and is ready for the next part of the plan, wanting to let Wanda know when the moment is right. Darcy is speeding the car so fast that Loki is starting to worry that they might crash into something or Darcy might drive them off the road faster than he would with magic.

Eventually they manages to catch up to the truck, without anything right in their way or worse either they crash or run over Pietro. Darcy is doing her best to keep the car steady and sees from the rearview mirror that one of the Ultron droids is driving the truck and not even aware of what is going on right behind it. Things seem to be going well and all they have to do is the tricky part and maybe then and only then they will get out of this alive and successful. Though the longer they are there, the more Loki wonders if this is really a good idea and starts to realize how dangerous it is to try to do something like this. What other choice do they have? This is the only way for them to get the body and then they will be one step closer.

"Ok, this is the part where the big moment happens where we get what we want and then make an awesome getaway. You know where you get out of the car and do some cool action moves and we get the stone back, this is so much like an action movie." said Darcy excitedly. "Are you ready for this?"

"I honestly believe that this must be the worst idea I ever had in my life." said Loki as he looks right at the sight and just gives a sigh. "Well, it's too late to turn back now, we need to do this."

Loki then gives a gulp and he got ready for the next part of the plan, opening the door really slowly to get out of the car for the next part of the plan. Pietro sees them and starts to run even faster and get ready for the next phase of the plan. Loki slowly starts to reach towards the door, to try to see if it's locked and if it is then Wanda will get the signal and open the door for him to get in and then get it out before anyone spots him. He grabs the door and tries to pull on it with the hope that he would get it open, only to notice that it is locked tight. So Loki starts to pull right on the handle and it simply makes a sound that anyone in the area would be able to hear, fortunately Wanda gets the hint and she uses her magic to open the door right open and Loki quickly jumps right in and makes his way to Wanda, both of them gives a nod as they use their telekinisis to move the body to the back of the pick up.

With that part done, Pietro quickly runs and climbs right up the truck and ready for the next part of the plan and to see if there is a thing he can do to help out and if he can get his sister and Loki out of the truck as safely as possible. Both of them are trying their best to keep their balance as the truck continues to drive on and Pietro is doing his best to head close right towards them. Though something catches Loki's eyes and a sense of panic stars to consume him faster than he can use his magic to make an illusion, as he sees the many Ultron bots chasing right towards them and seeing what they were trying to do. Without a second thought, Loki uses his telekinesis to get the box back and Wanda quickly got into action once she sees what Loki is trying to do and helps him with placing it back into the truck. They notice some more of the robots heading towards a new direction and one where nether of them knows, Loki turns to the twins, knowing that they need to move fast.

"They know we are here, they might make another attack and we need to stop them before they do anything." said Loki. "I need you two to follow them and try to fight them off before they do anything that may create potential damages. Something must be happening if they are racing towards there right after they spotted us, so we are going to need to be there before they strike. Can you two go and see if you can put a stop to it?"

"Yes we can do it, but what are you going to do?" said Pietro.

"I am going to get to the driver's seat and then try to see if I can get the truck and the cargo to safety." said Loki as he pulls out two of his daggers and heads right towards the door.

He slowly exits, holding tightly to the edge of where the driver seat may be and places one of the daggers to the wall. Once it's safely secured, Loki places the other one and starts to see if maybe he can climb right up to the front. This might not be the best idea he has ever thought of or the safest, but Loki is determined to get there and somehow take the control. He is only glad that the metal from the truck is weak enough for him to use his daggers to to create a hold for leverage, otherwise he would fall right off the edge and one sight that he is trying hard not to look down. Loki continues to climb his way and getting on faster and faster as every single dagger breaks through the metal, until...

He finally reaches towards the end and Loki quickly realizes that he has run out of places for him to stab into. So he tries to see if he can reach the door and then maybe he can reach the handle. Loki tries his best to see if he can grab the handle and no matter how hard he tries to reach out, he can't reach it and maybe he can lean out and possibly get to it. While Loki is trying to move down further to see if he can finally reach it, but only to lose his balance and letting go of the dagger, falling from the height and with no way of being able to catch up. Loki closes his eyes, already expecting the speed of the air to fly right through his face and to meet the ground as though as the Hulk decides to throw him right off the bridge, almost ready for Darcy to yell out his name and everything to meet a dramatic end. Only... it doesn't...

Loki soon notices and realize that he is not falling and he is actually floating, he turns around to see if there is something that is holding him back and to much of Loki's surprise, he sees Wanda holding him with her powers, standing right behind him and trying to see if she can lift him right back to the door. He is surprised by the sight of what in front of him and to see that Wanda and Pietro were telling the truth, that he misjudged them so badly that he failed to see the truth or allow himself to be open in giving them a chance. Maybe Darcy and him made the right choice after all and he is happy to see that Darcy was right after all, as he is feeling a sense of relief continue to go through his mind until he finally reaches on the steps and standing right in front of the door, holding on to the door handle tightly and not daring to let go, he punches right through the window and grabs the Ultron droid's head and pulls it right off and throws the head over the edge and then grabs the rest of it's body and simply throws it overboard.

He then reaches into the window, quickly unlocks and opens the door from the inside. Once he does so, Loki moves a little to the side a bit, opens it and quickly hops right inside the truck. Determined to stop the vehicle and lead it away from the scene, from one look at the rearview mirror, Loki sees that the twins are racing their way to whatever the trouble may be and to help them stop Ultron and get the stone. He knows that after all of this is over then he is not going to leave either of them behind, especially now seeing how much they both meant it. Things are now going perfectly and if things keep going at this rate then maybe things will get back on track and according to plan, at least then he will have one less thing to worry about. That is...

There is one thing he just remembered and it is something important that he didn't think of or even allow himself to let it occur the very thought... He is now in a truck and he does not know how to drive!

He can't help but to stare right down at the wheel and wonders what he is going to do and how he is going to stop this truck? He looks at the controls, quickly seeing that it's completely different than any vehicle and space ship he has been on and the very thought of him crashing into something is making him more and more nervous. That alone is the least is the least of his worries as he is imaging every scenario that always seems to end in some kind of a disaster. Though he has no other choice but to try to figure out how to drive this, it can't be too different from a space ship right? Loki slowly places both hands on the wheel and tries his best to keep the truck steady and he manages to do so for a bit, that is until he pressed the break a little too hard and the truck stars to slurve for a little bit and he starts to unintentionally driving it rather recklessly, not helping in stopping the truck before he or anyone (not that he cares unless it's Darcy or the Maximoff Twins) getting hurt. As low as the chances of him dying from this entire experience are, but that does not guarantee that no one else is safe.

From behind, Darcy sees that Loki is having road trouble and knows that she has to do something before this gets further out of hand. She needs to somehow get into that truck and help him, she needs to do it fast. Loki needs her help, someone needs to take the wheel before Loki lose control and Darcy knows that she doesn't have a choice in this matter and she is Loki's only hope. So Darcy push on the breaks, speeding to catch up with the truck and not to be accidentally driven out of the road and get killed in the process. Every single time that she seems to find some kind of vantage point, the truck is always manages to block her way and she always has to pull back. It only makes her more and more worried about possibly making a wrong move and yet more determined to find a way to get there without getting herself killed. Darcy continues to struggle for a bit and it is starting to look like if she is never going to find a opening for her to drive right into...

That is she finally finds some space and she tries her best to keep the pick up in a safe distance and to reach the truck door. Darcy knows that deep down, this has to be the craziest thing she has ever done in the life and she wouldn't blame Loki if he tells her off later because she'd do it too if it was the other way around and maybe never live it down. She continues to focus on the road, wanting nothing more but to get over to the truck, every second feels like an hour as Darcy keeps on driving. When Darcy finally reaches the doorway, she quickly presses the horn to alert Loki and he quickly takes notices and opens the door right open to help her get in. Darcy gives a nod and she drives the pick up closer and when the moment is finally right, Darcy jumps right to the entrance of the truck. Even though she manages to get on there successfully but Darcy looses her balance and she is about to fall off, until...

Loki manages to catch her in the nick of time and holds her hand in a tight grip, giving Darcy the confidence that he is not going to let go. He quickly moves over to the other seat to make room, helps Darcy on the truck and let's Darcy seat right on the driver seat. She takes a couple of deep breaths as she thinks about what just happened, that she just jumped out of a moving car and landed right on a truck without even breaking a bone. Along with Loki being here to help her up and not even daring to leave her side and in a way saving her life, she knew it, she was right about him all along. They watch the pick up fall right from the bridge and falling so rapidly to the ground that it breaks completely destroyed beyond their sight. Without wasting another second, Darcy quickly grabs the wheel and drives them away from the edge and exits the highway.

Both Loki and Darcy gives a sigh of relief as they process what just happened and completely speechless on what just happened. They just went through the most unbelievable dangerous moment so far and all of the luck that would be so far off that it somehow manages to happen. They were alright and in Darcy's case alive, that dumb luck happens to be right on their side and they were fortunate for it to happen. Once they had a moment to actually breath, Loki has a couple of things to say and he is going to say it right now.

"You do realize what you just did was extremely dangerous and-" starts Loki before he was completely cut off.

"Yeah I know, it's probably in the top ten craziest things I have ever done in my life." said Darcy not even want to listen to a lecture that she knows how it is going to go, especially with the situation at hand. "But let's agree to never talk about this again!"

"Well as your friend, I believe this is not something that we should just let go the first moment of convince." said Loki. "Especially the very moment the situation itself has ended."

"You are not going to let this go aren't you?" asked Darcy annoyed.

"Of course not." said Loki as if it is obvious.

"Look, I would like to talk about all of the times I mess up, but we don't have time to focus on only this right now!" said Darcy. "In case you forgotten, we are trying to get an Infinity Stone and possibly save the planet and there are a ton of Ultrons chasing after us or something to try to get it back."

Loki is about to argue and try to get Darcy to realize that he is not going to let this go, but after seeing through the rear view mirror, he sees that Darcy is right. They still have to get through this and then end this entire fiasco, then they will have one less thing to worry about, that is until he sees the rear view mirror. Loki quickly takes a closer look and he becomes more and more nervous by the minute and really hopes that he's wrong. He notices that there is a motorcycle right behind them and with one glance, he recognize the fiery red hair and looks on with dread by the mere sight.

"I believe we have bigger problems than discussing of your recklessness." said Loki as he stares on to the road. "If I am not mistaken then the Avengers are here and we may have to leave the area fast."

"Wait the Avengers? How do you know?" said Darcy, the next thing they knew is that they see Iron man fly right by the truck and she grows really excited. "Now this is so awesome! We're going to team up with the Avengers and help stop an evil villain with them! I don't even know how today can get any better!"

"Maybe if the Avengers themselves were not here and I might not have to deal with them later after we help deal with the Ultron problem." said Loki. "If it has already slipped your mind, I am currently on the run and my brother believes that I recently passed on and I would not be surprised if the Avengers have already been told. I can not risk any of them finding out or else it would lead us to dealing with a problem bigger than Asgard finding out."

"Come on Loki, if they find out then it would not be the worst thing in the world." said Darcy as she continues to speed through the streets and finds herself entering another highway.

"They are my brothers' friends and the moment they find out the truth, not only they won't hesitate to put me in a cell, but they will tell Thor immediately." said Loki. "I wouldn't be surprise if that will be the first thing they do and that is chance I am not willing to take."

"But here's the thing you're not Loki right now. As long as you are wearing that costume then you're Mysto; a soon to be awesome hero and one that is ready to do anything to keep the universe safe. Ready to defeat the bad guys no matter what it may take and what the cost may be." said Darcy. "Though there might not be a high chance for them to believe our story if they ever find out the truth unless Thor backs us up, only because he knows us. Especially if Thanos comes along and make things a nightmare, but just so you know I have your back no matter what. I am not going to sit back and see you in trouble when you need my help."

"Uh... thank you. That is I believe that is the correct term for gratitude." said Loki who is feeling a sense of surprise of Darcy's loyalty and starting to see Darcy's most admirable traits shine through and he is starting to feel something he has never felt towards anyone before, that is until he stops himself from a daze. "As much as I would like to talk about this, but can we focus on trying to escape from the Avengers and not losing the Infinity Stone again?"

"Yeah, now that we got the whole we're great friends and be there for each other thing done out of the way." said Darcy. "Especially now that we have to keep your secret identity safe, getting the stone out of Ultron's weird invention thing before anyone else gets it and defeat Ultron."

"I do not think that it is going to go that far, but we should try to keep this vehicle on these high rising streets to make it harder for anyone to catch us." said Loki.

Darcy simply gives an unsure nod and tries her best to outmaneuver Black Widow and try to see if she can somehow loose the Avenger. Though that is easier said than done, since Black Widow always finds a way to get closer to the truck no matter how hard they try to do so. It seems as though they are getting a huge advantage and they might make it, that is until they hear something coming right into the back of the truck. They both turn to towards the rear side mirrors to see that Iron man got a hold of the body and begins to fly away with only Black Widow remaining hot on their trail. Darcy and Loki quickly exchange a quick look, knowing that they are now going to need to get the box back and this time from the Avengers, Darcy tries to see if she can make a U turn to go after the red armored hero. That is until she realizes that she can't...

The truck just run out of gas and Darcy lost all control of the truck and it's speeding right down the hill and is about to reach the end. Darcy is now trying to see if she can somehow steer the truck away and avoid them driving off the highway. She is desperately pressing the break as hard as she can and even then it is not enough and the truck continues heading right on it's way to the edge. The chances for them to escape is now diminishing more and more by the minute and there is no telling how this is going to end and despite the chances of losing the Infinity Stone increasing, both Loki and Darcy are more worried of getting out of this alright, no matter what the consequences may be. The edge keeps on going closer and closer, they are running out of time and if they going to do something then it has to be right now!

---

Here it is! Chapter 25, it's here and the wait is over! Twenty five down, two to go, wow I am on a roll with putting out these rewrites in this short amount of time and I still can't believe on the progress that I have made in the past couple of weeks and that we are getting closer to the end of the story. The finale hasn't been closer than it has ever been and we are about to reach it once I am done with these next two rewrites. I mean after all of this time, we are at the brink of the ending and I don't even know what words to say and we are still two chapter rewrites and the finale on the way. That the end is near...

It almost feels like yesterday when this chapter came out around the same time as Infinity War came out. I am still pretending that it's bad fanfiction and who knows maybe someday I can write my own version. Sorry if I offended anyone who enjoyed the movie, I am still happy that you guys enjoyed something that I couldn't and probably never will (but then again with Loki and Gamora, can one honestly blame me? Good thing the Loki show happened, hopefully we get the same luck for Guardians 3.). But still you guys can imagine how against I am with some of the story point and I defiantly do not want to think such a thing of it happening in this story again. There will be some elements of it in Redemption, but maybe not to that scale and this is not The Hunger Games: Superhero edition. I'm not promising that everyone will be completely safe, but there will be some that will get exactly what they deserve that I see fit...

I am happy to say that I have made great progress with the finale and I am currently hard at work on it and as I work on the next rewrite and it's definitely going to be a long one to say the least.

I am also happy to report that we are moving a little ahead of schedule and maybe I might even be able to meet my original deadline. Though I can't make any promises and I think if it has to come out in November, the earliest it would come out is at the end of November. A little after Thanksgiving to give us an idea of the time frame and the latest would be the end of January. If I have to give a realistic time frame, since we still have three rewrites left and the final chapter for me to write.

As for the next rewrite, I think the next one, the earliest it will come out is in three weeks, since the original chapter was over 8,000 words. So I am going need some time and who knows maybe that one will be an early one as well, that is if we're lucky as we have been for the past few weeks. :)

We are getting close to the halfway point and almost close to seeing the change that is going to occur in Loki. I really wanted this chapter to be the stepping stone for us and it is the transition to Loki's role in the Ultron arc and for us to see Loki's growth in the story. That we will get to see something exciting in the chapter and one thing that I thought that the rest of the story is missing and we are going to see it happen in the next chapter. Plus it would add up to the rest of the story and hopefully this big moment will be more than enough to fulfill this gap.

I really wanted to expand this chapter, to explore Loki's thoughts as he goes through the events of the first part of the Age of Ultron arc and then we will see the evolution continue on. That we will see Loki practice new abilities with his magic that will continue to be shown for the rest of the story and that is not the only thing that will be shown throughout the story. As we experience Loki's transitional phase happens, it will be where we get to see the real growth start to happen and where we will get to see him over this arc in the story as he learns his new magic, see a new side of things and maybe experience new emotions...

I hope that you guys have been enjoying the rewrites and that you are seeing the story get expanded in multiple ways. That you all are excited for the next two rewrites and the finale. Since it is currently in the works and I am happy to say that I am making great progress and it is in the works at the same time as the rewrites. That we are going to see the story reach it's conclusion and leave some loose ends, but it is in progress right now and they will come out as soon as the final two rewrites come out. Once that happens then we'll finally see how this story end. But for now we are going to see this story continue to grow as we reach to the final three rewrites and the finale.

Though just because the main story is ending, it doesn't mean that this will be the end of Redemption. I'm also thinking of possibly doing one-shot chapters for Redemption that takes place during the time skip and it can be anything like slice of life fics, Loki teaming up with the Avengers or just Thor and Loki as Mysto of course. teaming up (it can be a midquel story with multiple chapters), maybe even a Loki and Hiemdel team up or maybe even Loki and Darcy's adventures of searching for the Infinity Stones. But it has to take place during the time skip and not be something that would add more to the main story that it would be necessary to read them. They are mostly would be stand alone stories that still in the Redemption canon and yet still be part of the story (think of it like a spin of series of a movie that the story takes place between the previous movie and the sequel like How to Train your Dragon (the first and second) or Tangled (for the movie and Ever After short) for example.) I'm open to any idea that you guys might have, just put a review or pm me with your ideas and I'll be happy to use your ideas to write them into one shots. (Maybe even a Guardians of the Galaxy prequel/midquel before Gamora got caught by Thanos or even one before she even met Loki or went through the events of the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie?)

I might also be thinking of possibly, maybe doing a holiday special (it's an idea that I have been playing around and been thinking of for a while now), depending if the remaining rewrites and final chapter doesn't take too long and if you guys really want it, since it might happen...

Though I would be mostly doing Loki ones but I am open to the idea, but I was also thinking of having them to be more interconenctive than one may think, that it would be telling an overall story which would serve as a prequel, but at the same time they would be stand alone stories and within them, they will have a story arc that will lead into the rest of Redemption after the Age of Ultron arc. But the Gamora one is definitely going to be a prequel and I think I would probably at least have that one up, so that way we will see the start of her journey before meeting Loki and how she started her journey. (It's the only thing I can promise that will come soon whether it's before or straight after the story is done.) Other than that I am open to doing more Redemption, but before I make any decisions I want to finish this story first before I get started on one shots or any sequels. Especially since the final chapter and the rewrites are my top priority at the moment. :)

If you guys ever want to share a favorite moment or have any questions, you guys are so welcome to leave a review or pm me. I'd be happy to answer any questions, hear you're favorite moments, have a chat of the story so far and be happy to hear from you when it comes to anything you all may have to say. :)

Lastly, I want to say is that I am dedicating the Redemption fanfic to a good friend that has been there for me for the last couple of years. One that I will always appreciate that our friendship happend for the rest of my life. I am dedicating this story to Brigitta Pekelharing, a friend that helped me out of the darkness that I often take for granted. But I want to thank her for everything and helping me during the darkest time of my life, her friendship has made me grow into a better person and writer. I am always going to be grateful for the friendship that we shared and the impact that it made on me. In a way if it weren't for our friendship then there might not even be a Redemption because she got me into Marvel movies and helped me at the beginning of writting the fanfic. Thanks Brigitta for everything :)

So how will Loki and Darcy escape from the truck? Will the Maximoffs or the Avengers help or will Loki and Darcy find their own way out before the worst case scenario happening? Will they get the Infinity Stone back from Iron man? If so how are they going to do it and will they get the Infinity Stone out of Ultron's candidate for a body transfer? But still how are they going to escape from facing the Avengers and the many questions they will have? Will they find a convincing explanation for all of this? If so will Loki face Thor again or will he find a way out before it happens? Even then would it even be possible? Even if Loki and Darcy makes it out of this then would it mean that they are out of this or will they still have to face Ultron? What role will Loki and Darcy play in all of this? Will they be able to put a stop to Ultron's plans before things get any more out of hand? How will the entire Ultron arc ultimately effect Loki in the end and how is he going to grow from this? What do I mean by new magical abilities, new feelings and my earlier hints? Are you ready for Loki vs Ultron?

Find out in the next chapter of Redemption, whether it's the original chapter or the upcoming rewrite. See ya in the next update. :)