The next thing that they all knew was that they were in a quinjet to New York city and for now things were just getting interesting. Since now Loki is helping the Avengers in order to prove that they are trustworthy to have the stone that they already obtained. He personally find this new development ridiculous because both Darcy and himself had to retrieve the stone only to having to buy it back by helping the Avengers stop this Ultron. He really wishes that he can just find a way to get the stone without doing this. Since not only that he would have to be extra careful when it comes to his identity and making sure that his mask stays on at all times, but he would have to face one of the last person that he really want to face at the moment.
Fortunately Loki figured that it might be best if he just only speaks to him when only spoken to and maybe he can get Darcy have them stay at an inn somewhere. Depending if earth have inns for anyone to stay at whenever one may need to stay in one of course. Especially when he has to work with the last people that he has ever wanted to work with in his entire life and would leave the first chance that he gets. The things he does in order to get the Infinty stone before Thanos and to make sure that he makes amends from his past actions. Along with making sure that he still has a roof over his head in case Darcy finds a creative way on kicking him out. But still it will be alright if he continues to keep his mask on and try to avoid any questions that would lead to any trouble and make sure that he doesn't go anywhere near the Hulk or make Banner angry enough to transform into the Hulk...
Since it is bad enough that he will have to face his brother and lie to Thor in order to keep his secret a secret. But the Avenger that he is anything but excited to see was the Hulk. Not after their last smashing encounter that Loki is not eager to possibly become the Hulk's playtoy again. He could still feel the pain that happened after the last time, he got rag dolled and it was not pleasant to say the least. Not too mention if Darcy ever finds out then she probably would laugh hysterically and never let him live it down. He just really hopes that he can get the Infinity stone without any of these complications in the way.
But still at least the ride to New York was nice thus far and even though it was in a human made vehicle. If he didn't have some other plans or Thor later throwing him overbored then maybe he would have enjoyed it further. From this ride and spending that much time with Darcy then maybe these midguardians are smarter than he thought. Since they were able to put some of their resources to make these forms of transportations that doesn't exist in Asgard. Part of him really want to find out how the technology works and more than just any basic answers that Darcy gives throughout their spare time. But he mostly stopped himself because Darcy explained that people stare if he asks too many questions that humans don't normally think about like the functions of certain technology.
Plus she also got him a book the last time they went to the mall after bombarding her with questions after what feels like the hundreath time. But in reality it is actually the fourth, but Darcy got him the book anyway for three reasons; one to stop him from asking more questions, a reward f or his relunctant heroism and a late housewarming present. Even though Loki felt like it was completely unnessisarry and he doesn't deserve to get a present for just putting on a costume to collect Infinity stones and relunctantly save people's lives. If that what it takes to get recongnition in this planet then Loki doesn't know if he should be happy that he was able to gain something good from all of this or a little annoyed that midguardians are getting excited over the fact that someone save someone else's lives. But at least he was able to get all of the answers from that he wanted from the book unless there is another edition that tells him more about midguardian technology then he is satisfied.
Aside from that at least the flight thus far has been running smoothly and it has been a little relaxing, well compared to last couple of times he was in a flying vehicle. Since both times resulted in Loki falling off the ship, though it was mostly Thor's fault that occured and it did have him involved somehow. But at least this time there is no way that he will be falling off a flying ship this time. Though it has been mostly silent and this is exactly how Loki would like it to be. Well that is until...
"So how did you guys ever found out that piece was in that thing?" asked Captain America breaking the silence and trying to start off a friendly conversation with the four of them.
Along with trying to make a fresh start with the Maxioff twins and get to know this new masked hero and his friend. Since if they are going to be working together then they are going to have to get along. Though that already made the two of them nervous because they were not ready to answer that and were already did not know what to say. But Darcy quickly made a nudge to Loki to say something convincing, since out of the two of them he's the best liar. Along with the fact that they need a great story and fast.
"We managed to find out by meeting those two over there when we were on our way to try to stop some more of these droids." said Loki. "We ran into these two during a fight that we were loosing and they saw us. So they helped us defeat them and explained to us what happened."
As he was explaining, Darcy was just nodding her head and trying to act like if this story is nothing new. Along with hoping that they don't even ask any other questions or at least make them towards her specifically. Since Darcy is definitely not in the mood to accidentally blurt something out that can eventually lead to anyone figuring out their biggest secret. But fortunately Loki had the whole situation under control and she can relax by letting Loki do all of the talking.
"Why did you guys ever decide to get involved in this? Aside from getting that part you two need, why would you two want to risk your lives to save people that you barely even know?" asked Black Widow trying to see if their intentions were as genuine as they claim they are, by asking a thought provoking question. "Since it seems like that you are both are doing this for more than personal value like the glory of being a hero. Not that many people would put aside their own personal needs in order to help others unfortunately."
With that it resulted in both Loki and Darcy exchanging a nervous look, since they were clearly not expecting that. Since they just thought that they probably would only have a couple of questions on where they were from or just a couple of simple ice breakers that everyone will forget about later. But never this and now it's Loki's turn to turn over to Darcy because the only reason why he is even doing this is to get the stone and get out of there as fast as he can possibly can.
Along with protect his secret and make sure that no one figures out that it's really him under the mask, but that probabley wouldn't be good enough excuses to impress them or at least consider of giving them the Infinity stone. Plus it also helps that Darcy knows more about being a hero then he does despite not being in a costume herself. Along with maybe not even doing anything dangerous before he came along and read enough stories to know how a hero would respond to these questions.
"Well I guess the reason why we decided to help out and save as many people as we can is really complicated. Since my friend, Mysto here wants to become a better person than how he was in the past because of an incident." explained Darcy nonchalantly.
Loki quickly put his hand on his head in annoyance and can not believe what he was hearing. 'Wonderful Darcy, calling my actions as an 'incident.' That would definitely convince them that I have turned over a new leaf and to give us the Infinity stone willingly.' thought Loki through deep frustration during his face palm. 'Why not make me unmask and expose myself to both of them while we're at it? In the meantime tell them about Thanos and make them believe that he's going to use the Infinity stones to make the universe into a prosperous paradise full of peace and ice cream rather than destroy it. Then that would really make their day.' Though after a moment, he quickly turn to look over at Darcy and was wondering what was the next thing that she was going to say that might surprise him in a negative way.
"How about you? What are you in for?" asked Black Widow "Aside from anything that Mysto may want to do for redemption, what do you hope that you would get out of this?" 'Now that is a really good question.' thought Loki 'I sometimes wonder that myself because no one else would have ever helped me if I ask. Especailly after everything I did to Midgaurd, but despite that she still was willing to help me...'
"I guess it's because I always wanted to make a difference rather than just sit back and do nothing. I mean ever since that thing that happened during the fight back in New York, it inspired me to try to make a difference in any way that I can possibly can." explained Darcy nervously and sometimes even glances over to Loki as she continues. "I also believe that many people deserve a chance to be the best person that they can possibly be. No matter who they are or what they have done, anyone can make a difference in any way that they can. Plus it also because I want to help people and my friend complete his goals on being an awesome superhero that wants to help. Along with help Mysto with his mission to help protect the world in any way he can. No matter what happens next, I definitly have his back because that is what friends and true heroes do."
Once Darcy finished that statement, Loki didn't know what to say or even think of what he just heard. Since he was begining to think that Darcy was just doing this for personal glory or at least to try to keep on his brother's good side if he ever does find out their secret. But she is doing it to not only to save the universe from Thanos, but to also help him do it. Even though deep down everyone else probabley would have just threw him the costume and make him handle it on his own with no regard on whether he survives or not. But Darcy was ready to risk everything in order to help him and probabley don't even care what people may say if they ever find out that she was helping him after everything that he has done. Maybe he was wrong about humans as a whole, maybe they do have a some kind of strength that might not be obvious to most beings from other worlds.
Though he doesn't even know yet despite the fact that from the few humans that he have met so far, but they were anything but what he was expecting from any thing Thanos, Odin or another Asgardian would say. Though there are some more tolarable than others and he still don't know about this strange feelings that he always gets when he's with or near Darcy. But it's probabley just gratitude for all of her help, no matter how much he would like to throw this superhero facade out the window or get someone else go after the Infinity stones and take care of Thanos. But at the end of day the good overrides anything 'bad', plus if he has to be honest with himself he believes that he might be growing fond of her.
Part of himself is hoping that this is just a phase and he would get over it because the last thing that he wants is to build another relationship that he might wind up loosing someone that he can get close with. It happend with his mother and it happend with Thor, he's not going to let it happen this time and once this Ultron thing is over then he is going to have them maintain their focus on their mission to retrieve the stones. Not too mention if things get too complicated and they truely bonded even more and if Thanos finds out... There is no way he is going to let Thanos use Darcy or anyone else against him because then things will get more complicated for all of them. Since it will keep them on track of things and it won't make them any closer than they already are, but why does it seem like that option is more difficult then it sounds...
"Now that is really touching and I guess I can kinda relate to that." said Captain America trying to be friendly towards the two of them. "I started out just like you two when I first joined the army and aside from getting a costume and super powers from that serum. I mostly wanted to join to fight for what is right and to fight for the people that can't do it themselves. Even though in this time period, I have met many people who's views that have not exactly been agreeable to anything I believe in and it lead to many conflicts."
"I can imagine so..." said Loki already remebering what he knew about the soldier from his last encounter with him. "So tell us how did this Ultron nonsense have even gotten started? From what I was told that Ultron is set to destroy all human life on this planet and that thing is getting more out of control by the minute."
"Well you have gotten most of it right, but we really can't say who created Ultron due to it being classified and I don't think that our friend would be happy to believe that we told the whole world of one of his biggest mistakes." said Black Widow. "Since the last thing he probably would want is to have an angry mob waiting for him outside his front door."
Well at least Loki now knows that the person who created Ultron is really close to the Avengers and now he has to figure out who it is for his curiosity sake. The bright side is that at least he can cross out Thor, Black Widow, Captain America out of his lists of potential suspects. Since it's clear that Captain America would never make such a machinery due to his morality and his fish out of water status and Black Widow is many things but she is not an inventor. As for Thor, it would be laughable without the image in his head, acording to Darcy Thor couldn't operate an toaster even if his life depended on it. He would really like to see Thor creating an advance piece of midguardian technology that would do this much damage to the planet.
Plus from what he knows about other midguardians, they often don't have the time and material to just build evil robots whenever they feel like it. So that only leaves the archer, Stark and the Hulk to be one of the suspects and the potential guilty party, but he might as well count the archer out because from the time that they had together. Loki knows that he would be the last person to do it both morally and have the ability to pull it off.
So it only leaves Stark and Banner, but Loki knew that he'll probably going to find out later and that he should try to build a good relationship with the Avengers. Since if he does then maybe it will open the doors to having some allies for the future, even if it means working with his brother and his friends. But if it means that he might stand a chance against Thanos then he is willing to do it. He's going to need all of the help that he can possibly get because four against Thanos and his entire army, with these numbers then they're doomed...
"Are we close to where ever we may be heading?" asked Loki hoping that they would arrive already.
So that way they can put a stop to this before it gets out of hand and he winds up loosing grasp of the Infinity stone again. He was definitely not in the mood to go on a wild goose chase and have the Infinity stone get lost forever or Thanos gets his hands on it.
"We will be there in a half of hour and it will take a couple of minuetes for us to land this thing without accidentally crash it to the tower." responded Captain America "It won't take long, so sit tight and we'll be there shortly."
Loki only nodded his head slowly even though he does not know what might happen next, but at least he is getting somewhere...
An Hour later
After a crazy landing and once they got off, saying that the next part went smoothly would be the biggest understatement of the century. Since as soon as they entered the room, they saw that both Tony Stark and Bruce Banner were working on the machinery. With that a crazy fight to stop any more tampering on the machinery or worse any then it can possibly get. Along with stop the Infinty stone before it causes any more damage to the universe and make things worse for all of them. Before any one can even do anything about it, the next thing Loki knew was that his brother litterally flew in and brought the machine to life.
Everything was immideitaly became a blur for Loki after that because he was mostly in shock in what was happening right in front him. For starters, the machinery Vision has declared that he was on their side and he doubts that he will use it to help Ultron. But that still doesn't make things any easier and make the situation stop from being any more shocking and ultimately the strangest moment in Loki's life. As if things weren't going to get any wireder, the moment that truely shocked Loki came. Since he rembers it the most in complete detail that he felt like he's never going to forget that and it's the last thing he expected. In fact it was so surprising that Loki nearly felt like if he lost his mind and was almost ready to do something insane to make sure he wasn't going crazy. Like revealing his identity to all of the Avengers or something...
"But really we need to go." said Vision determinedly as he handed Mjornir to Thor.
The entire room was in shock and they were staring at both Thor and Vision silently. No one would have ever thought or expected something like this to even happen at all, Loki was absolutely speechless. He had half the mind to go to a hidden portal and then later go through it back to Asgard. Then later go to the royal library and research on how a piece of midguardian machinery that happens to be alive is able to lift a hammer that was enchanted by Odin to only whom those that may be seen as worthy. It goes to the very fact that it was completly unheard off until now and he really does not know what to say. With that everyone turned to Thor ready to see his reaction towards the situation, Thor slowly grab hold at the hammer and with that Vision went away to do his own thing. The room was silent for what it feels like an eternity and no one is daring to break the silence that is until...
"Well then... Let's get ready then." said Thor blankly as he is trying to get over his own shock from Vision. He then headed towards Tony and gave him a quick pat on the pack. "Very well done."
Before Thor kept on walking and notice both Darcy and Loki standing in the corner, he went over to them and was surprised to see both of them there.
Loki felt like his heart is pounding and was ready to run as if it was Thanos coming right after him for the stones. In fact he might as well consider that in order to avoid a confrontation with Thor because reveal or no reveal, he can't get over the fact that he has hurted his brother beyond repair and he will never have a chance to make things right. Even if he tries to reveal himself and explain what is going on, Thor probably won't even listen or try to stop him on a plan to take over Earth again that doesn't even exhist. But before he can even begin to slowly walk away and run, Darcy grabbed a hold of Loki's hand and try to be comforting as he is about to face his brother.
Even though she doesn't know what it's like to lie to your older sibling and have to pretend that you are a different person every time you meet. But she knows that she needs to be there for her friend. Since he needs support in this more than ever and facing Thor again as Mysto this soon... That is probabley a harder challenge than facing Thanos any day of the week because the main difference is that at least Thanos wasn't raised by your side throughout your entire life. Along with the fact that he would probably just beat you up and take away the Infinty stones then that's it. But this is bigger than any titan who might destroy the universe in litteraly just a snap. But still she knew that she have to be there for him even if he did drive her crazier than most people that she ever met. Though she doesn't really know why it doesn't bother her that much than anyone would think...
"Hey everything is going to be ok, I can promise you that." said Darcy whispering in Loki's ear as she kept holding his hands. "All you have to do is put on a mask and act like you without him figuring out. It's what you are good at after all and I'll be rooting for you all the way."
Before Loki can respond to anything that Darcy said or even give her one of his rare smiles. Thor came to greet them and Loki just wished that he can just disappear from the tower...
"Well it looks like someone changed his mind about being a hero, I'm glad that you decided to join us." said Thor "Right now we can use all of the help that we can get if we want to defeat Ultron." Loki didn't even know what to say because this is for the first time in years that Thor was happy to see hi.
Even though he was hiding under a mask and Thor doesn't know it was really him. But still it felt a little nice to talk to Thor again without an arguement dominating their entire conversation, it was a nice welcome. But that doesn't mean he was any confident that he would if Thor knew and they were on good terms as how it was before everything happened. But he still doesn't know what to say because he never thought that this would have happend after he decided to leave Asgard to pursue a new life. He'd probabley would have stayed silent if it weren't for...
"Yeah even though I was the one that did all of the talking, so you guys kinda have to thank me on that one." said Darcy bringing the attention to herself "So this is what it's like to be fighting a crazy world wide threat with the Avengers?"
"So I am safely coming to the conclusion that you two are friends?" asked Thor as he smiled at both of them, happy to see that this Mysto character has at least someone to talk to in pursuit of his journey.
Though part of him kinda wants to know how the two became friends because from his short interaction with Mysto and the fact that he wants to remain alone. It's clear that Mysto works alone and thinks that there is always someone that is going to catch him and disapprove his actions. It reminded him so much of Loki, he used to play all sorts of pranks or help him on his adventures, Loki even triple checked to make sure that Odin, Heimdall, Frigga or some random guard or palace staff didn't find out what he was planning to do...
Why is Mysto making him miss Loki even more? There is no way that this Mysto character and Loki would have anything in common, since they are completely two different people. For starters, Loki would never go out and risk his life to save hundreds of people vouluntarily and he knows that Loki would never agree to go around dress in a costume. Especially a costume with a mask to cover his face because not only Loki would feel humiliated, but he would probabley want some credit of being the person responsible of saving hundreds of lives and possibly the world. The very thought of Loki is now hurting him as well and Thor is now starting to wonder what it would have been like if he did things differently. If he was there for Loki when he needed him most, if he never got banished to Earth and if he personally look for Loki himself after Loki fell down the void... Would Loki still be around today?
But instead of looking at Loki's memory with fondness and respect, Thor is busy comparing his own brother with a total stranger. If Loki was still around, Thor didn't know if Loki would see Mysto as an equel or angry that he's being compared to a human. Since now Thor sees Mysto having many personality traits that reminds him of Loki and might have the same levels of intelligence. Even though deep down Mysto may never replace Loki, Thor knew that he can't let Loki go no matter how hard he tries. Seeing Mysto sharing a lot of things in common with his brother...
It makes things harder to move forward and start a new life without any hope that Loki would somehow find his way back like it was the last time. No matter how hard he tries, Thor can't seem to try to move on from Loki who he still believes that there might be some good in him somewhere. Especially remebering that Loki had ever opportunity to betray him and Jane, but he didn't and chose to save them. Especially knowing that he can escape at any opportunity, but he chose to save them despite not being able to stand being in the same room as Thor. Though things are getting tougher by the minute by just thinking about Loki through Mysto and no matter how much Thor tries to shake that feeling off, it was tough and he had to put those feelings off for now. Right now defeating Ultron is their top priority at the moment and he'll try to deal with these feelings later.
"You could say that..." said Loki nervously because he's almost worried that Darcy is going to blurt something out. She may be a good friend, but it doesn't take a genuis to know that she's horrible of keeping secrets...
"Yeah we kinda go way back and I have been helping Mysto here with all of this superhero business." said Darcy "Not that I have anything to do with the whole secret superhero helping and know secret identity thing." Loki was almost ready to make an allusion find if Avengers tower has a restroom and bang his head on the wall if he lost his mind at that very moment. He almost ready to say out loud "Why doesn't she reveal my secret identity and tell Thor that his brother has been alive all along while she's at it?" At least there wasn't any potential damage that Darcy might have unintentionally have created by that statement alone.
"What Darcy means to say is that we were friends before my journey to become a hero." said Loki "There's nothing more to the story, we would really apreciate if we just get ready for the mission now. The sooner we all stop the evil robot, the sooner we can all rest and get to know each other."
Loki also quickly thought 'and the sooner we can reobtain the Infinity stone somehow (he wasn't planning it to be planted on a robot, a robot who was ready to help them and might possibly on their side.) and leave before anything else happens. He really wish that he can tell Darcy that out loud, but he can't risk it and with that he began walking away to stand in a corner far away from Thor. Darcy awkwardly followed him, not even sure if she should say something to Thor or not, but being not in the mood to get into an arguement with Loki and accidentally revealing his secret identity. She already knew that Loki would kill her, then Thor and later Loki again, it definitely won't end well. Once they both stood in a corner, they both turned to the Avengers to hear what their game plan might be.
"Even though I just met this masked crusader, I am kinda with him on this one." said Tony. "So what is the game plan here?" With that everyone turned to Captain America and was ready to hear what he has to say.
"We'll leave first thing in the morning, so that way we can prepare and get everything we need for battle." said Captain America "Be sure to be ready and have everything you need at dawn."
With that he left the room and the other Avengers including Thor began to get ready for the mission ahead, before the two can go any where. Loki notices that Darcy looked like if she doesn't even know what to say or do now, so he decided to break the silence and see what might be bothering her.
"Are you well?" asked Loki with a bit of concern in his voice even forgetting that they were in a midst of an arguement before they even arrived at the tower.
"Yeah but I am kinda disappointed." said Darcy with Loki even becoming a little more concerned for her as he showed more interest "We just met the Avengers, got your very first mission and we didn't even hear Captain America give an awesome inspiring speech that completely moved us!"
At that moment, Loki stared at Darcy for a minuete and preceded to just roll his eyes in annoyance because this is more unbelievable as it sounds. He can't believe that he was concerned over nothing and was even more surprise that he, Loki, is now feeling some sincerity towards Darcy over something so petty. With that Loki began to leave the room to try to find some place to get ready and relax for the night.
"What? It's totally a missed opportunity." asked Darcy confused as she was following him unsure where they were going.
Two Hours Later
After being accommodated into a room and the Avengers left him alone to get ready and to speak to Darcy for some reason, he can't believe that this was happening. He is going to help the Avengers stop an evil robot that is set to destroy all of humanity. Normally he would be worried about his identity and how he is going to approach Thor when they need to make sure that his identity remains a secret. But right now he has bigger fish to fry as Darcy would put it, things are definitely don't look good because there is no way they are getting the Infinity stone with this new development. If the Avengers won't give the to them, then it will be stuck on this human like robot that he doesn't even know if they can even trust or know if he would give them a fight before they can get any close to getting it. Things definitly are not looking good when it comes to completing their side of the agreement, especially if this Vision wound up helping them.
They don't even know if Vision had any other plans that might be half as bad as Ultron or worse, he doesn't even know how they should trust him by just being oblivious to the fact that he might be helping Ultron and they might not even know it. The more he thought about it, the more he began to worry about what could this Vision's true intention might be. He doesn't even know if they should just find a way to grab the stone, destroy it before it can destroy all of them.
But then again it would lead to more trouble because the team might suspect it's them and then will go after them. Then the real investigation begins and it leads to a potential escort back to Asgard with a furious Thor and best case scenario, Darcy is being held under house arrest or something. He can't help but imagine how horrible that would be and at least he doesn't have to worry about it because he's going to need to come up with a good plan that is going to get him that stone.
Before Loki can think of any possible plans that might get him that Infinity stone without possibly risking his identity being exposed and ruining Darcy's life. He knows that he is starting to have a strong feeling for Darcy for some reason and Loki knew that deep down he never felt towards anyone else... But he had to snap out of it because not only this sentamental feeling might get in the way but he has to focus on this quest and besides his feelings might not even be real. They will fade over time thought Loki Besides Darcy would never care for a monster like me and I doubt that this is nothing more than simple fondness and gratitude for everything she's doing for me. There is nothing more than that...
While he was thinking of what were all of the problems that they have to face if they were going to pull something like this without the Avengers ever finding out who Mysto really is. Darcy came into his room ready to express her feelings about the whole situation and she really needs to talk to someone about her so far exspirence because right now she's having a wonderful time exploring the tower and have only one complaint about the whole thing.
"Can you believe that they are not going to let me tag along on this mission?" said Darcy a little annoyed. "I know that you guys are going to go out and stop an army of evil robots. But still how many people can say 'they helped the Avengers save the world from an evil robot crisis'? Oh well at least you are going and probably going to have all the fun and you might tell me awesome stories about it later."
Loki just rolled his eyes at his friend's excitement because the gain of fame was the last thing on his mind and that alone was unbelivable. If it was before the battle of New York, Loki would have loved to have been the center of attention and finally be praised in doing something great. But now it's a question of whether he can live a life on the planet or not. It also doesn't help that his choices would affect Darcy's life as a whole, whatever reason he is feeling the way that he is feeling for some reason he doesn't want Darcy to get in trouble because of him...
"You do realize that we will be fending off an army of earth's most dangerous pieces of technolgy in their entire existence." pointed out Loki "Not too mention, having to put up with Thor for more than as midgaurdians would say the standard forty eight hours. If I wanted to risk my life and later possibly get arrested then I would have stayed in Asgard."
"But this isn't really that bad, all you have to do is go out there and fight evil robots easy peasy." pointed out Darcy "But all you have to do is to keep your mask on at all times and that is already the cool part."
"It would be "cool" if I don't have to help solve one of midgaurd's problems in order to get that stone." said Loki full of frustration "You want to know what would be "cool" as well? If the stone isn't part of a walking talking sentient robot that we don't even know if it has a secret plan to blow both of us. It would also be helpful that my brother isn't here to further jeopardize our here."
"I'm not the one who lied to him and make him think that your dead, your going to want to stop saying Midgaurd and Midgaurdians a lot around other people if you don't want people to start thinking that you are from Asgard or from a unknown planet in the nine realms." said Darcy "I mean honestly it is just a couple of days with a mask on trying to do some good for a change, it's not the end of the world. Ok maybe I'm being too hard on the idea of you having to go out and help save hundreds of strangers, but I am just pushing you to do it because I know that you can be better than everything that you did and shown me."
That caught Loki off guard, he was not expecting someone to say that or even think of him that way. He doesn't even know what to say towards her or of he can say anything at all after that. Most of his life, the people of Asgard has always expected little of him or to simply be Thor's brother and now there is someone that is willing to believe in him for doing something great. Not just a villain but something more than just the second prince of Asgard. For some reason it touched him more than any other compliment that might have been ever given to him. Maybe when this is over he can try to-
No there's no way that is going to happen and that they can't get any closers, it's bad enough that they are going to eventually to Thanos. But the idea of him getting close to Darcy is absolutely absurd and besides she might just be saying that she's his friend just because of the hero thing. Then again Darcy managed to prove to him time and time again that she is going to stay by his side, well it's not like she's excited of the idea of Thanos and the Chitari coming in one day and interrogating her about his whereabouts if she ever decides to kick him out.
Though now with how things are going, Loki kinda wishes that Darcy is considering that option then maybe he can go on about this on his own. Despite the feelings of not even wanting to go on a wild chase after the Infinity Stones, for some reason it is starting to feel right and it was something that he needed to finish. Loki doesn't know why he is feeling that way and he can't be feeling this way, he's Loki the troublemaker and villain, not some kind of caring person that is more than just a hero like the Avengers. It must be a phase, it has to be...
"Just because you believe that, it does not mean that it is true." said Loki "Changing the subject, I believe that I might owe you an apology for earlier. In case anything happens when it comes to life or my identity being revealed. I just want to say that I apologies for that foolish arguement that I played a part of earlier, my temper almost cost us my secret and potentially put you and your normal life in jeopardy."
"Well if it makes you feel any better then I'm sorry too," said Darcy, "I guess I might be a little too pushy when it comes to the whole make you a hero thing, but if we are going to win this then we are going to need to take risks. We can't do that if we stay in an apartment all day and hope that Thanos decide that he's going on permanent vacation on the space equivalency of Hawaii. If Thanos is going to be stopped then we are going to need to stop him now and try to fight for a better life and our lives. I mean there is no way I am going to be a happy camper if Thanos decides to pay me a visit and demand the stones, there is no way I am going to give him a warm welcome."
"Well if it's Thanos, then you might not have a choice." pointed out Loki. "You do realize he can kill you with just a punch to your spine right?"
"Yeah, but that does not mean I am going to give up the stones that easily." said Darcy. "Ok I might need to come up with a plan first, but I will probably try to put up a fight or at least drive Thanos crazy. Though I wish that I have your powers to shape shift or illusion making or whatever you are calling it."
"Why is that?" asked Loki surprised at that statement. Someone is wishing for having the ability to do his magic, it is like if Thanos decides to give everyone a cuddly bunny and make all of the worlds' problems disappear for the better once he assemble the gauntlet or Thor deciding to wear a ballgown like the girl wore in that Cinderbella movie or sing about his true love to Jane like that Snow girl or something like that.
"So that way, I can maybe turn Thanos into a hamster or a turtle or something." said Darcy. "Then that way we can stop him sooner and we might be able to stop him and get it over with sooner."
Loki just stared at Darcy for a moment and before he can stop himself, he found himself trying hard not to laugh at that statement alone. Something about it just makes the problem so simple, part of him wish that he can just go through a portal and find Thanos and turn him into a rodent. The idea of Thanos being a lab rat in a maze running around getting himself lost and later being locked in a cage is somehow humorous for him. Darcy can't help but giggle a little bit but is trying hard to maintain some kind of control so that way she can be a look out and make sure that Loki doesn't accidentally take off his mask from his laughter and do something. Then it might result in someone like Bruce Banner sees and decide to get angry enough to pound Loki or worse Thor.
Just because it wouldn't work out and part of her knows that Loki would rather take the pounding from the Hulk then an awkward conversation and apology with an angry Thor ready to give Loki every single angry thought in his head and take him on a one way trip back to Asgard. But it was still nice to see Loki happy and that he at least having a bit of fun. Now that Darcy thought of it, she does not remember the last time that she saw Loki smile and realized that after everything that they have been through and maybe even before they met. She can't even think of an occasion that would make Loki happy or at least made him smile. In a sense it is heartwarming...
"If only it were that easy." said Loki as he slowly calmed down and try to regain his composure. "Even if I could turn Thanos into a rodent, it would take me weeks to find or develop a spell that might possibly work. I have better luck turning myself into a rat and though I do wish I could put him in one of Midgaurdian' pet cages. Changing something's species is more complicated then one may believe because the first thing I would need to do is to find the elements that I may need to create the spell such as how the aptitude and the power that I may need in order to create a spell that might turn Thanos a rodent. Without then-"
"Ok I get if your not careful than you might accidentally turn Thanos into a mouse, though I still wish you could have the ability to do that." said Darcy immediately. "But at least it gave you a good laugh, I don't think I have ever seen you smile let alone laugh. It is kinda nice to see you happy for once.."
Loki immediately stared at Darcy and quickly returned to his formal composure, he can not believe that he just acted childishly in front of Darcy. The very idea of him dying from laughter just because of he found a statement hilarious. The last time he was truly happy was when he was talking to Thor before the coronation and after that he does not remember the last time he was truly happy. He better not get used to it because after this mission then...
"My sincerities apologies for my childish behavior, I have no idea what has come over-" begins Loki.
"No one should ever apologies for being happy." said Darcy. "Plus you are stuck with me now... So you might as well get used to it. Especially with the whole going to fight an evil robot and might possibly have to figure out a way how to get the stone off that thing without hurting it."
"I doubt that taking things easy and hoping that he would give me the stone is a likely outcome for this situation." said Loki. "But I will try to reason with him before taking it by force and we should start hoping that this machinery has a mind of it's own for all of the right reasons. I have never thought that retrieving an Infinity stone after it was stolen by menacing robots could be so frustrating. I can not even believe that I am going to help fight off these things and for once I don't even know what to do."
"We'll figure it out as we go along, for now just try to help make sure that humanity lives to see another day." said Darcy. "If I get attacked by an evil robot, I'm going to blame you."
"In case you have forgotten, I didn't create those robots to send them attacking to Earth." said Loki defensively at first. But later soften his tone to try to bring some humor to the mix. "Isn't it ironic that Stark created a dangerous machine that is now threatening humans and all life on Earth and now I am putting a stop to it? If Odin ever hears that idea, he would think that he finally lost his mind."
"Well at least it's better than having him loose his mind for something that you did." said Darcy adding her own humor into the mix. "Then I might join him on the loosing your mind festival because if I ever hear that you have another one of your take over the Earth tantrums then... I would be the last person that you'd want to see. If you think Thanos is scary then I can be scarier."
"Well knowing you, I wouldn't be surprised." said Loki. Before he can try to add a remark back, Loki suddenly stopped himself and for once he is at lost of both words and emotions.
Soon the room grew silent and there is suddenly an unknown tension between the two of them, it is something they have never felt or exspirence before. Loki never thought that he would ever feel this awkward in the same room as someone or if he is just imaging these emotions. He's not sure if this is just the nerves of about going to go save the world or if he is imagining the tension. But there is one thing that Loki knows they need to stop it or he needs to figure out what is causing these emotions and moments like this.
Otherwise it will continue to hurt him and possibly their newfound friendship, then that would be disastrous and Loki does not know why he is feeling that if Darcy suddenly turning his back on him is the end of the world. For some reason, he is feeling if it would be a disaster if that ever is to happen and then he would be really upset. Maybe he is just growing fond of her or something, Loki hopes that this is something tempolary and that it won't be something that will ruin their friendship. The last thing that they both need is a distraction or something that is going to tear them apart forever...
"L-Mysto have you ever been in a situation where all of the sudden a conversation becomes awkward and silent?" asked Darcy.
"No I can't say that I have." said Loki unsure.
"How did this conversation suddenly become so... wired?" said Darcy. "Not to say all of our conversations is wired, but this one definitely ended differently this time, do you know I mean?"
"Yes I believe so, I am also unsure how things have gotten..." Loki stopped himself because of the mere fact that he does not know what to say and he's worried that for once in his life, he might say the wrong thing...
Before either of the two can say a thing... the door suddenly burst open with Thor being on the opening end. The two of them quickly try to act like if there is nothing going on between them and try to look as professional as they can. Thor looked at the two of them confused at them trying to seem like if they are trying to maintain a professional friendship between the two. He's even starting to have the idea that there might be something going on between the two that is oddly closer than friends, but the idea of Ian as a masked superhero is shocking to say the least. There is also something about Mysto that makes him think about Loki but it must be because if Loki never went on the path that he went on and try to become a hero then maybe he would have turn out like Mysto. But still... they have a mission to do and it is time to go and maybe he can try to get to know Mysto on the way to Sokovia. It might help him to try to move on from Loki and might give him a fresh start, to do things that he couldn't do with Loki.
"Uh... I just came to tell you that... it's time to go." said Thor awkwardly. "My apologies for uhh... the sudden interruption, I was not aware that-"
"Have you ever heard of knocking?" asked Darcy panicking immediately. "How much have you heard?"
"I didn't overhear your conversation or at least towards the end about how your conversation becoming 'awkward.'" said Thor. "I also did not think that you two were in the middle of something that might require both of you privacy."
"Honestly, let us just forget that this has ever happened and move on already." said Loki annoyed. "Now tell me, you were coming here to get me for the forthcoming mission, am I correct?"
"Uh... yes..." said Thor. "Let us carry on for the quinjet and head towards the upcoming battle ahead of us."
Loki got up and is ready to leave the room, he knew that it's going to be a long day tomorow and he can hardly wait for it to be over. He's going to safely assume that Captain America is going to round everyone up to discuss a possible plan of action for tomorrow. That information is going to come in handy when he eventually have to sneak off and try to talk to Vision about the stone. He does not want to create a scene and he has no idea on how he would be able to get to Darcy and make a quick escape without looking suspicious, but as Darcy said they will figure it out as they go along, it is not a plan that would comfort him but it is better than nothing. Before Loki continues to follow Thor out to the door and to the battle up ahead, he stopped himself to turn to see Darcy and maybe say a couple of words of farewell before they have to part for a day or two.
"So I am asumming that I will see you again after this mission." said Loki briefly. "Since I am not in the mood to find you somehow captured by Ultron and having to rescue you because of your attempts of trying to become a hero."
"Come on Mysto, you know that I am not that much of a fangirl and who knows maybe someday I might be your superhero partner if I ever learn how to fight as well as Black Widow. But even then I might have to have at least years of practice or hope that I somehow get superpowers." said Darcy. "I mean who knows maybe I might have a surprise waiting for you once you get back."
"Well at least I have something to look forward to when I get back." said Loki. "I will be sure to come back as soon as I can possibly can, farewell Darcy." Loki starts to head towards the doorway and nearly went through it before...
"Hey Mysto," said Darcy. "Good luck."
Loki quickly turn to Darcy unsure what to say and even though his body is physically strong, for some reason it is starting to feel like if this is one last fight before an defining outcome. In a way it is because this fight would determine if they have all of the stones before trying to find the last stone, he needs to win and get on the Avengers' good graces if he wants to get that stone and figure out a way how to get the gauntlet and the power stone away from Thanos without him noticing before it's too late. But all he needs to do is get Vision to give him the stone or see what happens that result in them getting the stone in someway, then they can move on for the rest of the stones and the gauntlet and end this. But first...
"I share the same sentiment for you." said Loki trying hard to maintain his usual demeanor and succeeds.
Once the two of them leaves the room and heads towards the hallway, then Loki can't help but smile and for once in his life, he is grateful that he had his Mysto mask on. So neither his brother or Darcy could see the smile on his face, he has never felt this way before towards anyone and it is a confusing mess. One minute he is feeling an multitude of emotions and the next he is just happy. He'll figure things out after this is over, right now he have a mission to take a part of. What's worse it is aa mission with his brother and the Avengers, that is one of the last things he wanted because he would have to talk and lie to his brother again. The walk between the two is silent and Loki hopes that it would remain that way for the whole trip there, battle and back. He just hopes that Thor doesn't say anything that can start a conversation...
"So, I am guessing that you two are planning to court each other after Darcy breaks up with Ian?" said Thor catching Loki by surprise.
"Uh No! We're just friends nothing more!" said Loki almost ready to become defensive. "Darcy is already seeing someone else anyway and the last thing I want is to be indirectly responsible for her relationship being destroyed and ruin any chances of a proper romance with him."
"Well, I just thought that you might be going down that path because you two seem to be rather close-" began Thor.
"Can we please just discuss about the fight that is in our horizon and any updates about Ultron?" interrupted Loki immediately after. "The last thing I want is to go in there and look like an idiot if I say the wrong thing or make the wrong move when we are finishing this."
Fortunately for Loki, Thor dropped the subject about Darcy and him expanding their relationship and it looks like they can move on. But unfortunately, Thor decides to use this time to try to start a conversation with him, every single time he tries to get Thor to drop it and keep an quiet distance between the two and try to not to get so close. Thor is not going to give up that easily and is going to try find a way to be friendly to Mysto, Loki is even wondering how Thor is gong to feel once he realizes that he is trying to connect to a person that does not even exist.
He almost wants to laugh at the image of Thor's shock face if he ever finds out that he's not only alive but Mysto as well, then he can actually have one of the rare happy memories of Thor in the past few years. Other than that he can't jeopardize his identity or his own patience by trying to have a conversation with brother that might make him just want to give up this stone chase and live the rest of his life on an asteroid. For the sake of his sanity, this better be one of the shortest trips ever and that they will be back tomorrow night with hopefully a lead for the other stone and the stone in his grasp. The sooner this is over the happier he will be and then maybe he can retire Mysto for a long time, but there is one good thing that happened from this Ultron mess... Thor is being his old annoying self, for some strange reason it feels good to be annoyed by Thor again...
I'm Back! First order of business, I owe you all an apology for not only for the delay but for making a promise that I couldn't keep. I let my life and an unlimited amount of time get in the way and in the end it caused one of the biggest delays in Redemption history. It didn't help that I had to work extra hard for school and I couldn't find time to write until now, but that is no excuse for keeping all of you hanging. I am going to try to update more often and already have an idea to make it up to all of you, I will tell you all in the next chapter.
On the topic of the next chapter, I am happy to say that we are getting close to the thirtieth chapter of Redemption and I still can't believe that it has gotten this far. Only two more chapters of the Ultron arc left and I already have everything planned for the rest of the story. Let's just say that there are going to be more surprises in store than what is starting to come up and maybe a definite answer on the connection between Loki and Darcy. That is if there is even a connection between the two that goes beyond friendship. But still at least Thor might see something between them, I mostly added the scene because I thought it would be funny to see how Thor would react if he walks in on Loki having a moment with someone whether he knows it's Loki or not. Sorry if it was too goofy, but let's be honest with the route the movies went with Thor's charecter recently I wouldn't be surprised if they went down this route.
As for the next chapter, I am going to start working on it soon and going to have it come out as soon as possible. The thing about the next chapter is that it is going to be drastically different than the battle scene that we saw in Age of Ultron. With Loki in the battlefield as the Avengers it is going to change some events that we all remember from the movie. It is also an important chapter because in the next chapter the experience will change the overall course of the story and Loki's character arc as a whole...
I hope that this chapter was worth the wait and I apologies again for the delay, I am going to try to get the next chapter out as soon as I can but I don't want to make another promise that I might not be able to keep again. So I guess the earliest that it might be out will be sometime in July or Augest but I am going to try to not have a delay that could last almost a year if not longer.
But the last thing that 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 and one I have taken for granted that I don't know if she'll ever speak to me again. I am dedicating this story to Brigitta Pekelharing, a friend that helped me out of the darkness that I often take for granted and I don't know if she'll ever read this or speak to me again. 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 is the battle going to play out? Will Loki find a way to get the stone off Vision? What has Thanos been doing this entire time that Loki has been chasing the mind stone and helping to fight Ultron? We will have to find out in the next chapter won't we?
See you in the next update. :)