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?

61. Chapter 53

When Thor arrives in Asgard, he only sees a servant standing right before him. Standing with the Bifrost sword at hand and giving Thor access back to his home. Thor just gives a nod, as he starts to head out of the observatory and make his way to the palace. Already missing the friendly greeting that he had every single time from Hiemdell and already missing the friendship they once share. Only wondering if he knew if Loki is alive and why didn't he tell him about his brother and if he will ever know the answers.

Thor walks on the bridge, remembering all of the times where he went on adventures with his brother and every single time, the two of them going off on some quest and sometimes if not most of the time, his friends would often join them and they would simply go on some adventure and they always had fun. The days, when everything was simple and the days that he missed the most and yet knows that he can regain them again.

He has his brother back and they are now on good terms. They are finally on good terms again and his brother made amends with not only him, but with everyone and the worst part, he almost sacrificed himself to stop Thanos and nearly died from the entire ordeal. He really wish that it didn't have to go that far or even would have liked to have happened. At the same time, he also has the hope that things will go back to how it was, but he knows that it might never will. He doesn't even know if he can even tell anyone about Loki or if anyone will be on good terms with him again, but he hopes that his brother will get along with the Avengers and then he would be happy. To see Loki and his friends getting along would be nice, though he thinks that they might get along if they try hard in doing so. At least he's happy to see that Loki has found a group of friends through the Guardians of the Galaxy and befriended Jane. Along with creating a bond between him and Darcy, one that he sees that it's powerful and yet a friendship that makes the two of them happy. He just wishes that things are simple and that he just knows what to do.

Thor doesn't want to lie to their father, but he also doesn't want to ruin his brother's chance of happiness or inadvertently taking away his freedom. He knows that whatever choice he makes will create an impact for Loki, if he tells Odin then Loki will lose his freedom and chance to continue living his life on Earth. If he doesn't tell Odin the truth, then not only their father would think Loki is dead, but he doesn't know if Loki would ever think of revealing himself to Earth or see how he can walk around Asgard without needing an illusion. That Loki would be trapped within the lie itself and no one would ever know what he did for the universe and if they did, it would be as Mysto. He doesn't know how he is going to feel about that or if there is a way to get everything to be alright. Maybe he will find a way that Odin and everyone will accept Loki, that he wouldn't have to hide from him or anyone else that would still believe that Loki is evil and can never change. He wishes that there is a way for all of them to find some sort of closure where they can find a way to make it work.

The trip through Asgard has been nothing more than a moment where wishful thinking has gone towards his attitude and yet he really does hope that it will end well for Loki. He continues to make his way through the city, careful not to be seen by anyone he knows and at least be seen by his friends. He wouldn't know what to say or how they would feel about Loki being alive or at least make sure on what the future could hold and if they would be alright with it. As much as he doesn't want to lie to anyone he cares about, but he knows that he has to in order to protect Loki and if the worst happens. He is just relieved that they are all out there, fighting off Thanos and making sure that they all do their part in defeating the Titan.

He doesn't want to face them until he figures out what would be the best solution to help his brother and then he would decide what to tell them. Even if he might have to lie to them to protect Loki, he wish he could simply be honest with them. Though he doesn't even know how they would react to Loki being alive, would they be happy to see that their former comrade lives or angry about everything that has happened? He knows that he can't afford in letting them find out or anyone for that matter. Thor just hopes that their father will be different.

Soon, Thor arrives at the palace and stares at the home that he and Loki grew up in. Nervous about his choice and the idea that this could be the start of a new beginning for them and yet at the same time, one wrong move and it could be the end of everything and maybe even the end of their brotherly friendship. But he has to figure something out or else, the situation can drastically change and it might be worse than they might be anticipating. He doesn't even know how Loki will feel about anything and really wishes that he was there to help and give him advice how to approach this, but he knows that he has to try to do what is best for his brother and will do everything in his power to make sure of it, as he starts to enter the palace to meet his fate.

---

Meanwhile back on Earth, a few hours later

After Thor left, the Avengers try to answer other questions that any reporters might have and to try to cover up the truth. The Guardians spend most of the remainder of the day either fixing the ship, checking in with Loki and Nebula and Gamora often makes frequent check ins to make sure that Nebula is alright and to keep her company. Bruce often rotates between both Loki and Nebula, to check in on them and to continue to help with their recovery. While Jane stayed by Loki's side for most of the afternoon and kept him company, whether he was asleep or awake, the two of them are just glad that they are just there for each other. That both of them are just happy to see that they got along so well and they are at least allowing them build a closer friendship between the two of them to form.

While Darcy on the other hand, she was trying to keep herself busy with helping out on the tower and every time she tries to get to see Loki before something comes up. The very errands that she always either find exciting or to help with the Avengers. She often find herself always finding Loki asleep and then it never leads to a talk unless it was with Jane. There is the same routine that happens every single time and one that often always find themselves leading to absolutely no where. That it looks like that they are going to go through this same routine that always ends with her just hanging out with Jane and wishing that Loki would simply wake up and they can have a chance to talk. The same routine happens over and over until eventually nighttime finally came around and everyone went to bed.

It has only been three hours, Darcy can't find it inside herself to go to sleep. Sure she knows that Loki is safe now that he doesn't have to worry about Thanos anymore. But she knows that he still has to recover from the injuries he obtained and his soul nearly being taken and has to somehow remerge into Loki and then he will be fine. All she needs is to wait and understand that he has been through a lot and that they will find a time for them to talk. Though she just hopes that it happens soon and it would at least settle things between them and they can at least hang out. Plus she really wants to talk to him, especially after everything that has happened and just wants to see him.

Darcy has been lying in her room over two hours, careful for not accidentally waking Jane up and is thinking everything that is going on in her mind. She is pondering on whether or not she should just get up and go in and check on Loki or just wait till morning comes and then Loki might be awake. But still she has to wait, at the same time, she just wants to go in and just be there. In case, Loki is awake and he feels lonely...

Wait a second, this is Loki she is now thinking about, he is stronger than he looks and can handle being alone for a bit, even if he is bedridden. Still even if it is against her better judgment and it might not be the best idea. But she is so going to go check on him and try to see if they can have a minute to talk and if he's asleep then she doesn't know what she should do. She can either stay and wait for him to wake up, but that would be too much or just go back to bed. But Darcy knows that it wouldn't hurt but to check in on Loki and besides at least it would give her an idea to see if he is alright. At least she might finally get some sleep and plus she will see that Loki's alright. As his friend then she has to make sure that he's alright, Loki would do the same if it was the other way around. She has to get in there and see for herself, that Loki is alright and then maybe they can have a chance to talk.

Darcy grabs her phone and slowly start to exit the room and head her way to Loki's room. She turns on her phone's flashlight, in order to see in the dark and starts to make her way to the pent house. So far it is kinda easy in walking and making sure that she doesn't accidentally wake the whole tower up. At least that is already more than a good sign and one that she is just happy that is there. She continues to slowly head towards the pent house, hoping that her luck would continue on.

When Darcy made her way to the stairs, before she even starts to climb up there. She turns down the brightness and is careful in walking very slowly. Already knowing that there is at least six up there and some may want to sleep and Darcy doesn't want to wake anyone up. That she carefully not make her sound as each step starts to get harder and harder by the minute. Soon Darcy managed to climb up the stairs and is right in the front door and she just hopes that she would be able to get in there and not wake anyone up. She is just nervous on what she is going to find in there, whether Loki is awake or not and she does not want to accidentally wake up Nebula and the Guardians or rather three of them, at least.

She carefully opens the door rather slowly and starts to head towards the room. Watching her step, as she is careful in not stepping on something and is ready to go fast if she could. Though she is relieved that the only ones that are in the room is just Rocket and Groot. Though she has to admit that seeing the two of them sleep is really adorable. The last thing she wants is to wake up the two of them and ruin the night for them. She quickly tries to make her way to the room as quietly as she can and the only sound that she is making right now is maybe only some footsteps. That she is careful in not waking up the two and eventually she made it to the other side of the room and right at the door where Loki is. She did it, now she is right in front of Loki's room and she can finally see him.

Darcy gives a sigh of relief as she sees Rocket and Groot is still asleep and not too mention there is no sign of Gamora or Nebula or anyone else coming in to see that she's right there. So she carefully tries hard to not make a sound, in hopes that the calm anthnosphere will continue on. The next few seconds are feeling endless, this entire sneaking around really reminds her of an Indiana Jones movie. One that where one wrong move then everything will fall apart and then she would have to face everyone's glare. Though she would rather have an epic adventure than everyone being mad at her. That would definitely be cooler and might not get on everyone's nerves that easily.

Darcy made it, to the front door of Loki's room where she stands there, feeling a sense of relief and yet nervous in what she might find in there. Sure she knows that it's Loki and he is going to be fine, according to Jane, Thor, the Guardians and Bruce, they said that he has been more awake and his fever has ended and hasn't appeared since yesterday. But she doesn't even know what she is going to say once she's in there and she just thinks about all of the words that are left unspoken. The ones that is now haunting her mind and yet the fact that Loki nearly died and she nearly lost her best friend is what making her feel the need of being there for him and to do what she knows that might be difficult for her to do. Tell him how she feels, but she is not going to do it just yet because not only because Loki went through a lot. But there is also the fact that if Loki doesn't share the same feelings or wants to go that far then it would be the start of the end of their friendship or at least how close they are. She can already imagine how awkward it would be if they go around with her feelings being out in the open.

Maybe she should just wait for the right moment and then she will tell Loki. For now she is going to just be a good friend and be there for him. That is unless he speaks up first and then they can have a conversation about all that and figure out all of the details and then see if it somehow works out. She just hopes that no matter what happens, they will still be friends and not let anything break them up. Especially after everything they have been through and she doesn't want to lose him over Thanos or Asgard and Loki's dad or something as awkward as this.

But she will worry about and try to figure everything out later, right now she has to get in that room. She opens the door rather slowly and starts to head her way right inside the room. To much of her disappointment and not to her surprise, Loki is asleep and he doesn't seem like if he is going to wake up anytime soon or if he will soon be awaken. Sure she wasn't expecting that Loki would be awake right here waiting for her, but part of her wishes that was the case and she wouldn't be here not even knowing what she should do next. Darcy knows that she can't just sneak back out or else she would be back where she has started and she knows that she can't stay, in case Loki wakes up and she can already imagine the awkward conversation.

Though she would definitely stay and just try to be there and then talk to him. But she doesn't even know how Loki would feel if she is to do that and plus the last thing she wants is to do something that would not only make herself uncomfortable, but Loki himself as well and how it is going to be more like a scene out of the badly written romance stories. Not to mention, it would make things really awkward for the both of them to the point that it would be really awkward and that alone is making her just uncomfortable thinking about it. But still since she's here, maybe she can stay for five minutes and then she can just get up and leave. Even if part of her wishes that she would stay a little longer and at least before someone notices that she's here and then it will later lead to an even more awkward moment where she would give anything but to stay there a minute longer and then she would wish that she had Loki's powers to disappear and hide until everyone forgets that it ever happened.

She just sits down on the chair that she often finds Thor sitting in to stay close to Loki. Well with Thor gone then she can take his seat for a bit and will just stay for five minutes or maybe even ten before getting out of the room before anyone sees her or Loki wakes up and then it will be a long night. But part of her hopes that he does, then that way they can talk and the two of them will talk things out. She just hopes that it would be one of the good type of conversations, not the type that would be so awkward that both of them would agree to never speak of it again. At least she doesn't have to worry about anyone coming in and seeing her right there and thinking that it's wired that she is right there.

"Hey Darcy, I'm guessing you came up to see Loki?" said a voice right behind her and Darcy quickly turns and sees that it is Bruce.

"Uh... Yeah!" Said Darcy almost immediately and yet full of excitement. "I just couldn't sleep and I felt like that I haven't seen Loki in like forever, so I decided to come up and see him."

"Sure, you can come anytime." Said Bruce. "The good news he is improving and he will be back on his feet soon if he keeps this up."

"Now that's awesome, he's going to be ok." Said Darcy. "So I am guessing that he has been asleep for a while now?"

"Yeah, he has been resting and haven't woken up for a while." Said Bruce. "Well except only briefly to try to get up to try to get some water. He was limping and holding on to the furniture to get to it."

"At least we know that he is starting to be well enough to try to walk." said Darcy. "That or Loki still needs rest and he doesn't want to admit it or ask for any help."

"Jane and I had to help lead him back after he looses his strength again." Said Bruce. "But other than his fever coming back for a bit, but we kinda have to persuade him to try having some Earth fever reducers, apparently they work on Asgardians. The good news, it's mild and he is still conscious and it's safe to say that at least he is better off than before."

"I'm guessing that's why he has been sleeping a lot lately." Said Darcy. "But still at least he is getting better and things are still going smoothly and that's all that matters."

"He has been asking for you and he knows that you have been busy." Said Bruce.

"I know I don't exactly feel great not seeing him ever since we got back and I still haven't had a full on conversation with him or even know what to say." Said Darcy. "I know it's been busy and that a lot of things happened, but I still want to see him and talk to him. I don't even know what I am going to say to him once we start talking or if we can... clear things up or if he will be alright with..."

"You know you can stay here as long as you want to." Said Bruce. "I don't know or can promise that Loki will wake up before morning or if he will be fully well. But maybe he needs a friend by his side."

"Yeah, but I don't know, I mean I would like to stay and help." Said Darcy. "But wouldn't it be awkward if Loki wakes up and he sees me as sitting here and I don't even know what to say? I mean I am telling you, I would be here and practically watching him sleep without him knowing, isn't that a little I don't know creepy and too much?"

"Darcy, he is recovering from an injury and needs help to heal." Said Bruce. "I think he would be ok if you check in and see if he is doing alright."

"I guess, but I just don't want to be too overbearing and wouldn't just sitting around and watching over Loki without him knowing be too creepy?" Said Darcy. "The last thing I need is things to become awkward between us that the best case scenario would be that this becomes a story that the two of us will laugh at."

"It is not going to be awkward and I am sure that Loki would be happy if you are here if he wakes up." Said Bruce. "If you were watching him every time he decides to go to sleep all night long then that would be creepy."

"Yeah, you got me there. But still I don't know if I should do it, just because it seems to much and the last thing I want is to become too overbearing." Said Darcy as she turn to see Loki who is still asleep and doesn't want to disturb him. "Though he probably would be happy, but I don't know if I should give him space or if I can just try to help in anyway I can and somehow just be really helpful because I want to help and I just don't know how without... Things just being wired and awkward between us and I don't even know where to go from there..."

There is silence that enters the room, as Darcy stops to think about everything that is going on and yet everything that has happened the past few days. She doesn't know what she should do or if she can do anything at all, since the options are just either too uncomfortable or tempting to even consider. Darcy wants to stay, but she doesn't want to end up being too pushy and yet make Loki uncomfortable and then she or Loki or both of them make things even more so. Not too mention, she also doesn't know what she is going to say to Loki. Especially with everything that has happened and that there are many things to say but at the same time the uncertainty of what the future might bring, this may be the only chance they might have to say whatever they may need to say or if they can even find the words to say it. She doesn't want to miss the chances she has left with Loki and wants to spend as much time as she can with him. Especially if the worst case scenario happens and with Loki almost dying, well technically he did die and Thor brought him back with the Stones. Other than the logistics, she simply wants to spend more time with Loki and just enjoy what they have left. If only she can find the time to find Loki awake and then they can just hang out like all of the times before...

"You know I have to help Nebula with some things when it comes to her memory and getting ready for maybe help her from her injuries and see if she needs anything." Starts Bruce. "It might take a while and I don't know when I will be back and Loki is going to need someone if he wakes up and needs something."

"So are you asking me to stay by him?" Asked Darcy as she turns to look at the Avenger.

"Yeah, I am going to need someone here to look after him and I don't think that Loki's a big fan of cell phones." Starts Bruce.

"Yeah, it's partially was my fault since when we first met I took a picture of him and forgot to turn off the flash." Said Darcy wanting to laugh, but is trying hard not to. "He noticed me, ask me what it was and after broke my phone."

"Ok, that would explain a lot. But other than the lack of phones and your history with Loki, he still needs someone to stay by him for a while." Said Bruce. "I don't know how long will I be with Nebula, since you really want to be here-"

"Yes, of course I want to be here!" Said Darcy rather excitedly before calming down for a brief moment to not wake Loki. "I mean, yeah I would like to stay by his side for a bit."

"Great, I will leave you guys to have some space and let me know if you or Loki need anything." Said Bruce. "See you in a hour or two."

"Yeah, see ya." Said Darcy. "Wait, is Nebula still awake? She doesn't really strike me as the type who would be happy to be woken out of nowhere."

"I think I saw Gamora walking by to grab something a few minutes before coming in to find you here." Said Bruce. "So it would be fine for me to quickly check in with her. Just keep an eye on Loki and make sure that he's comfortable enough to sleep through the night."

Darcy just gives a nod and grabs her phone out, so that way she will have something to do while she is there and watches Bruce leave before turning to look at it, trying hard not to look at Loki. But her eyes always managed to find their way back and now thinking about the memories that the two of them have been through. Wondering how long will she and Loki have to wait to have a conversation again and they can just hang out like they are used to? But at least she can look after him and spend some time, even if Loki is sleeping right now and doesn't know that she is here to even have a conversation. Well at least she is here now and if Loki wakes up sometime at night or maybe in the morning when she is still here then they can just hang out like they used to. At least she is happy that Loki is safe now, that he doesn't have to worry about Thanos any more and soon hopefully he will be free from the chains of the past. All she has to do is wait and be a good friend, then things will work out it has to.

---

Meanwhile in Loki's mind

Loki is simply trying to spend as much time as he can with his mother and trying to heal himself and is just only happy that his soul is on the merge to finally become whole again. Since he is getting tired of being stuck in bed and feeling completely horrible from the injury he has sustained and being in a place where he would feel worse than how he would be as if he is sick. Especially from knowing what Thor told him, about how Loki died and then he came back through the power of the Infinity Stones because Thor wished him back and he does not want to know what the consequences are going to be if it happens.

But for now he is just happy to be here with his mother once again and just to have a chance to see her again after everything that happened. To see her after how everything has changed and hearing her voice again is comforting. Loki just wishes that she can stay and this won't have to end, that there would be a spell to bring her back or a way to get her out of this realm and she can live out the rest of her life without the fear of potential consequences. That he can simply have her back and then allow her another chance in life. Unfortunately Loki knows that it is not the case and that things have to be this way or else there would be consequences. That is, unless...

"You are recovering faster than we have both anticipated." Said Frigga.

"To be honest, it has been a relief that I no longer am feeling any pain anymore." Said Loki. "That is at least a good thing, I am going to safely assume that it must have something to do with the Laevetin."

"The Laevetin has great powers and is meant to allow it's current wielder the opportunity to strengthen their abilities and themselves into something greater than themselves." Said Frigga. "That's what your father was hoping for whomever is to inherit the sword. To use it's powers for the good of others."

"It looks like Thor missed out on having this power, first it was Hela's and now it is mine." Said Loki. "I am assuming that it would have been his if Odin never got Mjnonir from the dwarves?"

"Actually he was hoping to pass it down to you." Said Frigga.

"Really? After everything that has happened and how I failed in being whatever he expected me to be." Said Loki. "He still would have wanted me to have the sword of legends and a powerful weapon that he doesn't even know what would have happened if I had my hands on it."

"He wanted you to have it ever since you were a child and saw you as a better fit than Thor." Said Frigga catching Loki by surprise.

"What? Why would he consider giving it to me?" Said Loki. "Is it because he was hoping that I would be a better replacement to hold Hela's weapon?"

"No, it's because after I thought you my magic, he knew that it might help you in combat if you have the sword then it might strengthen your power." Said Frigga. "Though part of him didn't want to give you the sword because of the memory of Hela."

"Why? He didn't want to see me become a bigger monster than she was or rather what Thanos created her to be?" Said Loki who doesn't know if he can believe that Odin would be so willing to give him the sword.

"No, he was afraid that the power of the sword and the evils you were playing with would have destroyed you like it did with Hela." Said Frigga. "Even if that wasn't the case, he loves you and your sister very much and he wanted to protect you. He decided to only give you the sword only if you really needed it and if there was a threat that is big enough to warrant giving it to you."

"Well, it looks like he failed in keeping the sword a secret. Since I still managed to find my way to it and it still chose me." Said Loki. "But either way, at least it helped in my fight against Thanos and now it's helping me heal myself."

"It is safe to say that your soul is starting to become whole." Said Frigga. "You have been more awake than when you were when we reunited after you started to heal."

"I believe so, but I wish that I didn't feel as though as I have my energy drained and there is also the fact that my magic is now dormant." Said Loki. "I really hope that I get my magic back soon, if I am being honest I don't know how humans can live their daily lives without it."

"Your magic will return in due time, it often returns in a day or two and once it does then you will have more power than before." Said Frigga. "I may not be able to sense it as well as before, but I can tell that you're powers have grown stronger and powerful than they have ever been on Asgard."

"So that means my magic is more powerful now?" Asked Loki not even sure what to make of this development.

"It's not just your magic, your inherent abilities have gained more strength and it might even surpass Laufey himself." Said Frigga. "Your powers and magic will only grow in a more rapid pace as they reach to its fullest potential and you might even be capable of surpassing the most powerful sorcerer in the universe."

"The sword is giving me a what humans would call an upgrade?" Said Loki. "At least I will be able to cast more powerful spells and I won't have to worry about falling back into my old tricks and allowing them to become old."

"You will be able to come up with new tricks and will have the opportunity to master your ability and it will allow you to become a part of you." Said Frigga. "All you need is time and the hope that it would somehow work out."

"Do you think Fath- I mean Odin would be happy if Thor chooses to tell him that I was alive this entire time?" asked Loki rather nervously.

"I think he would be really pleased to hear that you have been alive this entire time." Said Frigga.

"I doubt it, I did lie to him for two months and nearly caused a world ending catastrophe for all worlds." Said Loki. "Rather place the universe in Thanos's mercy and he is the type who would hurt people before they have a chance to explain themselves. If I haven't made that deal with Thanos or somehow-"

"Then you wouldn't be in the place you are right now and wouldn't have the friends that you now treasure." Said Frigga. "Loki, your father may get angry at first about the law and everything you did. But he will always love you, whether he shows it or now, he will be happy that you are alive and well. Please give him the chance to show you."

"To be honest, I don't even know if I trust him to know for sure." Said Loki. "But I do trust Thor and know that whatever he chooses to say, he will make the right decision, he is my brother after all."

Frigga smiles at Loki, happy to see how much Loki has grown and how he has found his way back. Away from the dangers of Thanos and the Infinity Stones and hopefully finding an escape from the laws of Asgard and earning Odin's forgiveness. But all of that will need time and he is going to need to find the courage to face the future. After seeing how Loki is doing and seeing that he is going to be fine in a few days, she knows that after Loki wakes up then this might be the last time they will be able to see and talk to one another. She is going to have to say all of the words that are still left unspoken, to say goodbye to one of her children and hopes that he will be alright and Odin won't be too hard on him. But she has a few things to say Loki before he wakes up and she may never have a chance to say anything to him.

"This will be the last time we will have a chance to talk, you are almost healed and ready to return to the world of the living." Said Frigga. "It is time for us to say goodbye and go our separate ways."

"Maybe not, why don't you do this every night?" Said Loki. "So that way we will never have to say goodbye and we can be together."

"As much as I want to..." starts Frigga. "It is not possible."

"Of course it is, you came here and speak with me even if it was impossible or at least I am assuming so." Said Loki. "Maybe if we do it like this every night, we can make it work or if that doesn't work then as often as we can and-"

"As much as I would like to stay or figure out some other way I can no longer stay." Said Frigga. "If I stay or choose to keep coming back every night, I would put you in danger."

"What do you mean by that?" Asked Loki who doesn't like where this is going and only hope that his suspicions are wrong.

"In order for a soul to heal and return to someone, the victim often see the person that they are the closest with." Said Frigga. "Since I died prior and once your soul is taken then the Soul stone summoned my soul to return and allow you to heal, it was never meant to be a permanent stay."

"What would happen if you do stay?" Said Loki. "I fail to see that there are any consequences or if there is a sign of the possibility of everything will end poorly."

"Your soul won't take the frequent visits and would only tolerate them if it's healing and due to the fact that it is almost done," said Frigga. "the soul is almost back to its full strength and it is starting to become one again. If I were to continue coming back then it would overwhelming and eventually you would die from it simply being too much."

"So that's it?" Said Loki in a sense of defeat. "We might never see each other again after this?"

"For now it seems that way, though I wouldn't give up hope Loki." Said Frigga. "Maybe someday we will be together again and we can make up for lost time. But for now you still have your new life and Thor and your friends on Earth by your side."

"I only wish that you can come back." Said Loki before giving a sigh. "At least we have a chance to say goodbye this time."

"It's more like a farewell for now than a goodbye." Said Frigga as she gives a warm smile. "I just want to say that I am proud of you and everything that you did, you save everyone and yourself from someone that is only wants power and will do anything to get it. Not only that you have grown so much in the past few months and became the person that I always knew you can be."

"I really have you to thank, if it were not for you coming to me and telling me that I should go down this path then who knows how things would have turned out." Said Loki rather happily.

"Right..." said Frigga taken aback by what Loki just said. "I am glad to see that you are going to be alright and will be fine after I am gone."

"Though I wish that I have never said those words to you and that there is a way I could have stopped myself in saying them." Said Loki. "No apology would ever be enough to make amends or to truly be forgiven for everything I have said and done."

"Loki, I have already forgiven you for what was said back in your cell." Said Frigga. "It is evident that everyone has either accepted you as a friend or already started to forgive you. Thor still sees you as a brother and was ready to do everything in his power to make sure you live to see another day."

"But it won't make Fath- Odin forgive me or make both Asgard and Earth see me as nothing more than a monster." Said Loki as he reflects on the situation. "I don't even think that either realm would ever accept me as a hero or believe that I have truly changed if I reveal myself."

"Everyone needs time to deal with change and the truth is not always easy to accept, but in time people will choose to accept it or at least learn to accept it." Said Frigga. "I can't tell you what would be the right choice or when you will be ready for any of it. But I can say is that you are not alone and you can find your own path to happiness."

"I know, I am grateful for everything you have done for me before and during all of this." Said Loki. "I know that we put that disagreement behind us, but I just want you to know that I love you and you will always be my mother."

At that moment, Loki doesn't hesitate in going up to Frigga and give her a hug. Not wanting to let go and yet knows that this is it, as much as he wants to stay there and be with his mother for the rest of his life. But deep down Loki knows that he has to pay the price and losing his mother is a consequence that he wish that he didn't have to pay. She doesn't deserve to pay for his mistakes or end with having a fate like this. He is only happy that they made amends and that he is not going to end their bond with those hurtful words. That he can say what he truly feel and to have some peace before his time with his mother truly ends and he can say everything he wants to say, as he feels a growing amount of relief as he feels Frigga hugging him back.

"Thank you for everything." Said Loki not even wanting to let go and say goodbye, but has accepted that it can't be the way he wants it to be.

The moment seems to be wanting to last forever, neither mother or son are ready to let go or if they are going to break out of that hug. But for now they are making the most of the time left and to enjoy this moment before reality sets in to tear them apart and then they will be separated from each other without even knowing when they will see each other again. When they finally break out of that hug, all Loki sees is her fading away from his sight and realizing that he will be waking up soon or something else might happen, he simply just waits to see what might happen next.

---

An Hour or so later, back in Loki's room

Darcy has been there for more than an hour and she has been deeply invested in the articles that she has been reading. When she wasn't reading them then she is reading anything movie related or checking out on any news relating to the Avengers and Mysto. Just because she is kinda in the Avengers' circle now, it doesn't mean that she can't read through the news and theories, with the hope that no one figures out that Loki is Mysto and have enough evidence to prove that they are telling the truth.

So far, she mostly found conspiracy theories about Mysto and Loki, most of them are really ridiculous. She can already see Loki rolling his eyes and being completely annoyed with what he would just read. Especially the ones that are saying that Mysto is actually a clone robot that was programmed to be a hero and in reality is spying on Earth or Loki is the one that sent Thanos to Earth not the other way around and Loki is Mysto and he came from another dimension.

Her favorite one so far is that Thanos found out about Mysto and he used the Mind Stone to brainwash everyone into debating for his real plan to take place, while Mysto is either Hawkeye or an unknown hero without any powers. That and the one where someone said that Mysto is actually Loki and he actually has a bigger plan to protect Earth after seeing the error of his ways. At least that one's accurate, though still far fetched when they said that Loki placed an admiring spell on all of Earth and they are now waiting for his world domination scheme to start. They even added her into the theories and made her sound like either a damsel in distress being held captive by Loki, a delusional young adult who's madly in love with him or Loki's evil sidekick in the same veins as Harley Quinn. She doesn't appreciate that and thinks that who ever came up with these theories have been watching too many movies.

Aside from that, she has also been looking after Loki and is just relief that there hasn't been any problems. That he is still doing alright and that there hasn't been any moments that scream extreme awkwardness. She still wishes that Loki would just wake up and they can have a conversation and just hang out like they usually do before all of this. But she just doesn't want things to end in a awkward moment where neither of them even knows what to say or she blurts something out that might make things super awkward that she wouldn't be surprised if Loki would feel embarrassed for her and the end of their friendship. At least she hopes that the worst case scenario doesn't happen or at least this would become something that they would be laughing about. Aside from all of that, she is happy that Loki is doing alright and that things will continue to run smoothly from there and then maybe with luck, they will talk sometime in the morning.

That is until she notices that Loki is starting to turn a little bit and that automatically catches her attention. She immediately turns to look at Loki, wondering if he is finally waking up and that maybe the signs are turning around. Sure Darcy doesn't know for sure what she might say, but right now she doesn't care and that just because Loki is finally waking up and she is finally in the room when it is happening. She is finally going to have her friend back and things are going to be alright again, that is she hopes that things will be alright...

She watches as Loki slowly start to wake up, Darcy sees that his breathing pattern will start to change and his eyes start to flutter awake and give the signs that he is finally waking up. Every second Darcy's excitement only grows and grows as she waits for him to finally be awake and they can pick up their friendship where they left it off and hopes that they would be able to have a conversation and then they can have some kind of resemblance of old times and they will still be friends. Even if she doesn't even know what she should say to Loki and how she is going to react, but she is going to be there for him and somehow make this work.

Soon Loki finally open his eyes and sees the room surrounding him and is just feeling a sense of relief as he feels more like his old self again and that he is starting to get well, at least starting to feel well enough to say that he is. He takes a look around and sees Darcy sitting right there and she is right here. He just can't help but feel a sense of joy to see her here and for once doesn't even know what to say to her that would express his happiness and yet what this means to him. Before he even has a chance to think of something...

"Loki, you're awake!" Said Darcy rather excitedly and happily. "Well awake when I am finally in the room, I just can't believe that you are finally awake and I am finally here!"

"Darcy, at last you finally became free of any commitments and finally made the time to see me." Said Loki. "I was beginning to wondering how much longer it would take for you to come by."

"Well, it's been busy over here and I just couldn't find time to stop by and even if I did, you were mostly asleep and we can't exactly have a conversation or at least a long one." Said Darcy. "I mean I could wake you up, but since you weren't feeling great and plus you needed to rest, I figured that it would be best if I just let you rest and you would at least be fine the next time we meet. That is unless you are not fine and I should go and get-"

"Darcy, I am fine, as a matter of fact I think that I am doing better than how I have been for the past couple of days." Said Loki. "I don't know why but I feel as though that my Soul must have finally came back. I just feel whole again."

"Ok, what do you mean by that?" Said Darcy. "I mean one minute you were as sick as a dog and the next you are back to being fine. I know you nearly lost your soul, but still that is a really fast recovery I'm just saying."

"I remember reading that once someone looses their soul then their bodies will slowly start to shut down and it can either be gradual or rapid as it was for me, simply because I used my magic to keep fighting Thanos." Said Loki. "When... Back on Titan, before and maybe after my... it is like if there was a virus inside me, my body thought that was the case. Soon my immune system took over believing it actually made things worse as I have to endure the pain and it felt as though I was in a worse torture than anything Thanos would throw at me, that there was no escape and it was really the end."

"You almost died Loki and practically would have if we didn't have the stones and if Thor didn't come back when he did and if I didn't suggest for him to use the wish..." rambles Darcy. "Then we would have lost you and you would have died..."

"So it was your idea to use the wish to try to see if it could work?" Said Loki. "You do know that you and Thor could have put the entire universe in jeopardy for me right?"

"Yeah but nothing happened and at least you're still here." Said Darcy. "Shouldn't that be all that matters?"

"Of course, but we still have to worry about what the price we might still have to pay." Said Loki. "Just because it has not happened yet, it does not mean that it might not happen at all. Usually it is a higher price to pay and one that many would not even want to pay because it is worse than a nightmare."

"Hey, whatever happens we will worry about it later and we will face it together." Said Darcy. "Right now let's just be happy that you are alright and that we did it. We finally defeated Thanos and we won, we really did it."

"Of course we did, we were an unstoppable force and had many advantages." Said Loki. "Especially after Nebula saw the error of her ways and helped us during the battle. If it weren't for her then we might have had a more of a struggle and one that I don't even think that I would be able to survive. Since after he took it, she stayed behind to fight and continued to fight until he injured her."

"It looks like Nebula wasn't a lost cause after all and she was just as lost and confused as you were." Said Darcy.

"At least she did not go as far as I did." Said Loki.

"She did help Thanos and he went the closest that he has ever been to a win." Said Darcy. "You practically helped Thanos lose more stones, so you are not going to win evil henchman of the year anytime soon."

"I should be grateful that I failed before then, otherwise things would have been more difficult and we definitely would not be as fortunate as we are now." Said Loki. "If only the same luck can help me when Thor tells Odin the truth about everything that happened and me being alive."

"But wouldn't it be a good thing?" Said Darcy. "Wouldn't he be happy to hear that not only you saved the universe, but you are alive and no longer an evil maniac who likes taking over planets. No offense!"

"To be fair, I think that is a perfect description of me when I was not in the best moment of my life." Said Loki. "I only wish that Odin would see it that way or at least be the type who would jest about this and then be more forgiving towards everyone no matter what they may have done."

"I am sure that Thor will figure things out and he will get you out of whatever punishment Odin has for people who did everything you do." Said Darcy. "Besides who knows maybe Thor will agree to keep this all a secret for you."

"Even if he doesn't then I would be alright with him knowing the truth." Said Loki. "I am tired of playing this game over and over, I only want to just get this over with and see the end results."

"Relax, we are going to get through this and Thor will work something out and aside from all of that, we just defeated Thanos." Said Darcy. "We should be giving a sigh of relief and then tomorrow celebrate that we won."

"I know but I can't help but worry of what is going to happen once Odin finds out." Said Loki. "I am just grateful that the Avengers must have decided to put off telling the entire planet about me."

"To be honest they seem to be really sincere about giving you a chance to live your life on Earth freely without any problems like an angry mob getting in the way." Said Darcy. "Just give them a chance, I am sure that if you and them talk then you all would figure something out that would work or at least be friendly to one another."

"I might be the last person they would want to forgive, have you forgotten the attack of New York and this entire fiasco we just ended?" Said Loki. "They are probably simply doing this for Thor and must be furious with me and happy that I managed to do their jobs for them. At least they would be alright if I stay on Earth or come back."

"Wait, does this mean that you are thinking of staying on Earth?" Said Darcy almost excitedly.

"I have not decided on anything yet, I am still waiting to see the end of results of all of this before I decide on anything." Said Loki. "I know for a fact that regardless of what happens, the least I would want is to keep in touch and we can occasionally chat every now and again. I don't think I am ready to let out friendship go."

"I don't think that I want our friendship to end either." Said Darcy. "Especially after what happened and what almost happened. You almost died and we... almost had a unhappy ending to our story and after that, I don't think I am ready to let you go anytime soon."

"To be fair, technically I did die and then Thor brought me back with the wish." Said Loki rather matter of factly. "At least I survived Thanos and I think that I can safely say that it would take more than the Soul Stone to end me."

"Yeah, but still we almost lost you, I almost lost you and..." starts Darcy before she just stares away and to the ground. "It's nothing but I know I can handle being planets apart from you. But I can't imagine living in a world where you are no longer around..."

Loki stares at her, he already can see that the entire experience has hurt Darcy far more than she has let on and that there must be some more emotional baggage that she is feeling. He may have not known what was going on while he was unconscious or how it might have effected her. Since as far as Loki knew is that Darcy had to speak on his behalf and try to cover up the story for him and deal with everything that is going on in such a short amount of time and she didn't have time for herself or to think or deal with her thoughts.

From knowing Darcy, whenever anything happens that is either related to the stones or something that she would tell him that would be too complicated to tell Thor or Jane, she usually tells him and it leads to them talking about it and allows Darcy a chance to express herself and thoughts. But not having that outlet and being forced to hide her emotions and with the hopes that no one will be able to see through her and they find out the truth and it would later lead to more trouble for both of them and then it would only be harder for either of them to get out of. Loki can already see what Darcy is going through and knows that she is not the type that would thrive in keeping it to herself or trying to at least survive the beauty of solitude. He knows that Darcy is the fun loving sociable type, if there's a problem then she would tell the first person that would be more than willing to listen to her. He knows that he should ask and see how it's going and with the hope that this might lead somewhere and help Darcy heal from this as well.

"Darcy, are you alright?" Said Loki. "You know you can tell me anything that may be troubling you, right?"

"What? Something bothering me? There's nothing bothering me, I am just happy to see that you are alive and we defeated Thanos." Said Darcy trying her best to hide her emotions from him. "Why would I let that bother me? Just because I nearly lost you and having to go up to hundreds of people and not having a chance to think or process anything that has happened in the past few days. But still there's a happy ending here and one that I am so happy about that I know that I am so going to be celebrating for next week or so."

"Darcy, we have been living under the same household long enough for me to know that something is bothering you. I am not going to try to pry anything out of you or when my magic comes back to use it to figure out what is going on." Said Loki. "I just want to let you know that I am here for you and want to help in anyway I can. I know that you are trying to keep your true feelings to yourself and if you don't want to tell me what's troubling you, then I respect your privacy and will not speak of it again. I meant what I said back on Titan, that I want you to be okay and see that something is bothering you and if you ever want to talk about it then I will be here."

"That's just it, you were almost not here and you were at risk of going and never coming back." Said Darcy. "What if you died? Then you would be gone and there will be nothing to bring you back this time and I would never be able to see you again or we will be able to hang out or have any of this again."

"Well, I survived and we no longer have to worry about Thanos, we are free to make our own path and make our own choices." Said Loki. "It may be uncertain, but we no longer have to face anything on our own and now with all six stones and the Guantlet right in our hands, the Avengers and the Guardians will surely want to protect them and to keep them from falling into the wrong hands again."

"Yeah I know, but still it doesn't make things any easier. Seeing you like that and not even knowing if you are going to make it out of this or if you are even at all going to stay, especially after everything we have been through and what we still need to face." Said Darcy. "We still have your dad and from what you and Thor said about him, he doesn't sound like the type who believes in forgiving and forgetting. Plus you also got hurt from all of this and it's partially my fault that it happened, I pushed you into this instead of just calling Thor and telling him about Thanos and somehow make it look like if I'm physic or something. Then maybe I can convince him to tell the other Avengers and you wouldn't have-"

"Darcy, none of this is your fault and you should not blame yourself for what happened or rather what almost happened to me. It was what Thanos does and what he wants to cause pain for others whether it's physically, mentally or both." Said Loki. "You should not let him make you feel that otherwise, if it weren't for you then I would still be the person you first met that day in London. Where the first thing I did was break your phone and was ready to leave Earth at the earliest opportunity."

"Yeah, you weren't exactly the most selfless person on the planet that's for sure." Said Darcy. "But still I was the one that pushed you to go for it and the one that kept telling you to be a hero and was a horrible friend and if weren't for me then-"

"Then we all would be under the reign of Thanos awaiting for imminent destruction and I would be dead one way or another." Said Loki. "Darcy, you were pushing me to make amends for everything I did and to fix the mistakes I made. If I never met you on that day, I would have been on the run forever, hiding from everything."

"Yeah and we all would have been screwed worst case scenario." Said Darcy.

"Let's not go there, I think we have gone over something like a million times to the point we should write a book." Said Loki. "My point being is that you pushed me into something better and made me see that I can be more than what I was and for that I will always be grateful."

"Even if it means that you faced Thanos, the last person that you would ever want to deal with and you nearly dying from all this?" Asked Darcy. "All because I wanted to help you and for us to save the universe. You don't blame me for any of this?"

"I would never blame you for giving me a chance, one that I will always treasure." Said Loki. "Allowing me to learn and grow from this entire journey, you gave me something that I never really thought that I needed or would ever have again."

"Oh, really what's that?" Asked Darcy rather excitedly.

"A friend, one that I can trust and value my friendship with." Said Loki. "I has changed a lot ever since I decided to abandon my plans to take over Asgard and my thirst for power and vengeance. Through you, I started to see the error of my ways and see how much I hurt my brother and everyone in both worlds, someone who doesn't care about anyone but himself and to live through an illusion, but that is not who I am anymore, I owe it all to you."

"Awe, now that has to be the sweetest thing that you have ever said." Said Darcy. "I am guessing that the whole soul thing must have made you the most sweetest and kind hearted person in the universe."

"What? No, it was mostly one of those pep talks that a lot humans give to one another as a form of motivation." Said Loki. "I defeated a mad Titan, lost my soul, died and had it returned. I didn't turn into a sentimental fool who gives nothing but compliments and think about others all day. Maybe some exceptions, but other than that I am not the type who would be bothering to be one all day."

"Come on, I was starting to get used to you being one." Said Darcy. "Especially with all of the compliments you just gave me."

"Please don't." Said Loki who is really wants to laugh at the turn, their conversation has turned to.

"So, you were saying that from me encouraging to be Mysto, it led you to be a better person and beating Thanos." Said Darcy. "So does that mean I kinda saved the universe?"

"Well, you are the one that got me to become Mysto and encouraged me every step of the way, so I would give you some of the credit." Said Loki.

"Now that's awesome enough for me." Said Darcy. "Uh, Loki... What was it that you were going to tell me? You know before you... fell asleep? I have been wondering about that for a bit before..."

"What? I don't know what you are..." starts Loki rather awkwardly before stopping himself and remembering the last moment before he passed out, not even wanting to lie to Darcy or to say his feelings, all he can do... "To be honest it probably wasn't important, it is either that or I might have been delirious."

"Yeah, fair point you were pretty sick then, that is if you call it being sick." Said Darcy. "Would you say sick or injured?"

"A bit of both, since I felt Ill from losing and regaining my soul and was getting past that burn mark." Said Loki. "Even then, I doubt this would be the right time to say it. Now what was it that you were going to tell me before all of that happens? The thing that you wanted to tell me even before our final fight against Thanos?"

"Um... Well..." said Darcy rather awkwardly and feeling a really uncomfortable. "That... I think that... it's awesome that you can create illusions with your magic..."

"Really? That was the very important thing that you wanted to tell me before I faced Thanos?" Said Loki in disbelief and knowing that it wasn't the case. "A fight that neither of knew who would survive or if we could even survive it. That you wanted to compliment me for my magic?"

"Yeah, since I think you once said that no one gives you enough credit for having magical powers and being able to do all what you do." Said Darcy starting to ramble on and hoping that it would convince Loki."so I just thought that it would be best to tell you how... cool it is that you can use your magic... to create life like illusions..."

Loki looks at Darcy in disbelief and knows that deep down she lied and there is something that she really wants to tell him. That maybe it is something that she is not ready to tell him, like what he needs to tell her at one point. He knows that he has to tell her, but that doesn't mean he is going to wait for a little while before he is going to do so. It's clear that Darcy has gone through so much that he has to keep his feelings to himself and give her time to heal. Loki can already imagine how stressful it must be for her and how she must have wanted all of it to be over. He remembers how things were hard for him when he was trying to hide all of his emotions and then he somehow makes things worse. He knows how harmful it is to bottle up emotions and wants to allow Darcy the space to let herself go through the emotions and express herself if she needs to. Loki is about to say something, that is until...

"Well, it is getting really late and I get that you must be tired and all of that stuff." Said Darcy. "That maybe you want to go to sleep and I can just leave and we can-"

"Darcy, I'm not tired at all and I think I will be fully awake for a couple of hours." Said Loki. "You don't have to leave, you can stay here for as long as you may need to and I would like you to stay. It would be boring if I don't have any company and you always make everything more enjoyable so..."

"Yeah, I guess I can stay here for a bit longer." Said Darcy. "That is if you are sure and you aren't tired or really are up to it and-"

"Darcy, it's fine and now let us forget about our troubles for a moment." Said Loki. "Why don't we simply just spend time with one another and enjoy each other's company for old time sake? Maybe that will help keep our mind off the future and we can just live for a moment."

"Alright then, at least we kinda agreed on a Star Wars movie marathon back there." Said Darcy. "So that is something to look forward to..."

"See, there we go and why don't you tell me more of these War of Stars films?" Said Loki trying to get the conversation picked up. "So that way I will know what I will be watching and prepared for them."

With that Darcy starts to tell Loki, the wonders of Star Wars and tries her best to keep the spoilers for herself. Along with figuring out the perfect watch order for someone who has never seen any of them. She is doing her best to keep all of her emotions to herself and hopes that she would get over them soon. Since right now everything has fallen into place and she has finally seen Loki again, he's going to be alright and they did everything they set out to do. She should be happy that they are finally at a place where they fought so hard to get, but at the same time she is thinking about everything that happened and can't shake her mind from it.

Especially with what almost happened and everything that did happened and what she doesn't even know what will happen or if things can still work out. She just hope that it does and doesn't even know what she is going to deal with tomorrow and anymore stressful interviews or meetings. But there is one thing she knows that, she doesn't want Loki to know about her feelings. He has already been through so much in the past week and is still worrying about what Odin might say to him and if Loki will still be free to live his life after all of this. The last thing she wants is for Loki to deal with her and all of her thoughts, especially with everything that is going on.

Loki notices that Darcy is trying so hard to keep an upbeat attitude that he is now asking himself how much is she keeping it in and will there be a way to let her heal from the entire ordeal. Since after a few changes of subjects in the conversation, he sees that Darcy is still trying so hard to keep her emotions to herself and making sure that he doesn't see any of them. No one needs to be a deep thinker to know that there is something bothering Darcy and he is just going to give her space.

Try to see if the conversation will cheer her up, with the hopes that it would and she will be fine with everything and she would be telling him how awesome it was to stop Thanos, she's really happy that she lived out her super hero dreams or anything relating to the comics and movies she watched. He just wishes that Darcy would be open about her feelings like she usually is and wonders what makes this any different? But for now, he is just happy to see Darcy again and only hopes that she will open up about her feelings and process them before it's gets harder for her.

The two of them pick up their friendship where they have left it off and from one look, no one can tell if there was anything that nearly ended it or if one of them is bothered by something and that they are about to face an unknown future that might tear them apart. One that neither of them can find the words that are needed to talk about it or figure out how to make sure that it ends well. They still have to wait for Thor and to see if he can work something out and somehow convince Odin not to take Loki to a dungeon or do who knows what to him and possibly Darcy for whatever the reasons that Odin might have. At least the two of them are together now and they can simply make the most of it now before everything changes for better or worse. The two of them are going to spend time together right now and continued their chat, as two friends who finally found some time for peace, talking for hours and to enjoy each other's company before things change...

---

The next day, back in Asgard

Thor is busy getting ready for the talk he is going to have with his father. That he has been planning it out all night, he didn't have a chance to talk to his father when he came back inside the palace. Apparently Odin was going around the other seven realms outside Asgard and Earth to make sure that he goes to talk to the other realms and discuss strategies and organize an emergency meeting before they try to fight off Thanos. But from what he heard from Sif, she says that Odin has been making the rounds and is expected to come back the following day.

He knows that his father must have already received word of his return and is now expecting him. Thor really wish that he can predict how his father would react and that both him and Loki can find it within themselves to talk and make amends. But he knows that would be easier said then done and he doesn't even know what would Odin react to the news of Loki being alive. So he has a plan on how he is going to find out without their father ever finding out.

Thor is letting the possibility of failure stop him, he is going to go over and tell him that Thanos has been defeated to stop the impending preparations and battle that has now ended. He knows that he has to make sure that Loki stays out of the dungeons. Thor starts to make his way down the halls, to reach the throne room and thinking back everything that has happened and how much everything has changed since the day he spoke to his father right back when he first returned from the Dark World and him delivering the news of Malekith's defeat and Loki's "death." But this time, it's different simply because Loki is now alive and he has to figure out the best way to protect him from the laws of Asgard that never forgives any wrongdoing. He knows that he is going to find a way to keep Loki out of the dungeons and tell his father something or at least anything that would guarantee in the odds working in their favor.

Thor remembers all of the times that he usually finds himself in trouble and often Loki always volunteered to help him get out of trouble. Alright, Loki was always dragged into his problems or he was accidentally there right beside him or maybe be even be part of it. But still he remembers how Loki often tries to figure out ways for them to fix it, if it was possible or if it wasn't at all, Loki always tries to get him to tell Odin the truth. It would be the least that he could do if he could return the favor to Loki and plus he has to find a way to make sure that Loki keeps his second chance of freedom.

The thought of the problem that he is about to facing is hitting harder than any battle he has ever fought and wonders how is he even going to get both Loki and himself out of this? If he is going to have to lie to his father to protect his brother? What is going to happen once he enters that room and talk to Odin? Can he even do this? All Thor knows is that he has to, for Loki and he not going to fail his brother.

Soon Thor arrives right at the doors and is about push them open, but he stops for a second to think about this and wishing that this difficult task will somehow become easier. That he would at least have a guarantee that he would somehow succeed in all of this. Though he knows that it won't help if he just stand around and hoping for it, rather than take action and gathering the courage to face Odin right now. So he opened the doors and head right inside, he finds Odin speaking to the captain of the guards and Thor starts to head towards their direction. Once Odin notices him, he sends the guard away to perform his duties and so he can speak to his son alone.

"Hello father, I am sorry to interrupt but I really would like to speak with you." Said Thor as he stands right in front of the throne that Odin is standing right next to and holding it with a firm grip in his hands.

"Thor, I am surprised to see you here and seeing you neglect your precious Midgard." Said Odin rather taken aback. "I honestly would think that you would be dedicating your time and effort to help them prepare for any attacks from Thanos."

"I came to you with the utmost important news that I need to inform you." Said Thor. "The threat of Thanos is now over, he has been defeated and is now dead."

"What? Have you and your friends been fighting him?" Said Odin in shock. "How did you stop him? What happened that caused him to be so weak that humans stand a chance against fighting him? Did you fought him in a battle single-handedly to retrieve the Guantlet and the two Infinity Stones?"

"Well, it did not happen that way exactly..." said Thor. "A friend of mine, actually was able to defeat him single-handedly and he was ready to sacrifice himself to do everything to stop him."

"What? A Midguardian stopped the Mad Titan?" Said Odin surprised by this development.

"That is correct Father, Mysto was able to think of a plan on how to defeat him and we all followed his lead to stop him." Said Thor. "If it weren't for him and his leadership then maybe the situation would have become worse."

"I see, what of the wild claims about Loki being alive?" Said Odin. "Did you find any truth to them or are they the delusions of a lunatic wanting to find an excuse to attack realms or for the past?"

"May I ask you, what would you have done if Loki was alive?" Asked Thor.

"Thor, it has already happened once when he fell into the void and that was luck." Said Odin. "It is not going to happen again, no matter how much we may wish for it."

"I only wish to hear what would you have done if the exact opposite happened? This question has been troubling my mind ever since I had a glimmer of hope that Thanos in his twisted ways was telling the truth." Said Thor as he remembers everything that has happened. "If he had a change a heart, tried to stop Thanos and was alive this entire time? How would you have reacted to it? What would say to him?"

"I would... allow him to speak to me and if he has anything to say before the Einhjer takes him back to Asgard." Said Odin. "To continue his sentence and pay for the consequences of his past crimes, to put him back in his cell to live out his days."

"Even if he help save the universe from Thanos and did everything to ensure that everyone is safe and the Stones doesn't fall to the wrong hands?" Asked Thor. "Even if he was truly sorry and was ready to give his own life to save another and do everything in his power to make sure that Thanos is defeated? You still would not give Loki a pardon and allow your heart to forgive him?"

"Thor, you can't forget that your brother did many crimes in the past that I can not simply give him a pardon even if he was alive and saved us all from Thanos." Said Odin. "The laws of Asgard states that anyone who dares to commit any crimes in the same magnitude that Loki has committed, then the criminal would either be executed or live the rest of their days in a cell, no matter how sorry they are and what they may do to redeem themselves."

"What if the law is wrong? What if someday there was someone that did save everyone in this universe and he stopped a foe like Thanos?" Said Thor. "Would you still show him that kind of mercy and make him pay for crimes that he now is ashamed off and the sins of the past that is no longer close to being relevant?"

"If any of it were to occur, I would not give any leniency or pardon to anyone under any circumstances." Said Odin. "Thor, why are you so interested in the justice system all of the sudden? Has this entire ordeal make you want to believe in a fantasy that will never happen?"

Thor stops right there, completely speechless and does not know what to think or how to feel about any of this and the reality that is right in front of him. Now he knows that there is no possible way that their father can ever know about Loki. If he tells him the truth then Loki would end up back in his cell on Asgard and with no hope of getting out. He would lose his brother again and he doesn't even know if their father would even at least allow him to see Loki from time to time. But even with that, he would put Loki in a place where he would be trapped within the past and no chance of escape. He knows now that their father must never be told or else there would be worse consequences for Loki. He doesn't even know how he is going to face this newfound reality or is going to tell Loki about this new development, but he is going to have to do what's best for Loki and even if that means it's the last thing that he wants to do...

"I'm sorry, I just miss him so much that I was hoping that Thanos's lies would bring some truth." Said Thor as he does what he never thought that he would do. "I just need a little more time, the recent events only brought the grief back and I realized that I will never stop missing him and I really wish that Loki would come back from the realm of dead and stand by my side as my brother, but I know that will never happen."

"A good king doesn't stay in the past Thor, he would push forward into the future for the good of his kingdom and subjects." Said Odin. "Though it is harder to let go of the past than one may think and the burden of loss. You can still honor his memory, but do not let the memory of Loki get in the way of your duty and your future."

"Of course, most of us survived the battle and we only had two casualties." Said Thor. "The stones are safe on Earth and we are trying to decide what would be best to do with them. If you want I can always see if they can be placed in the vault and we can have the tightest security measures imaginable."

"No, it would be unwise to have all of the Infinity Stones and the Guantlet in one place." Said Odin. "See to it that the stones and the Guantlet are destroyed, no one should ever use that power and it would be best to destroy it before someone takes it and uses it's powers to create even more destruction."

"I will see to it and find a way to destroy the stones." Said Thor. "We also no longer have to worry about Thanos's forces any longer, they all have been defeated or at least stranded on Titan. They will all be stuck there forever and that includes the Black Order."

"What of his other two daughters?" Said Odin. "I heard that one of them turned against him and helps protect the galaxy."

"You mean Gamora? Yes, she is fine and we actually met her and she helped us." Said Thor, hoping Odin isn't thinking placing them in a cell. "The same goes for Nebula, Thanos's other daughter. If it weren't for the both of them, we probably would have never defeated Thanos and all they did was help nothing more, it wasn't their fault that Thanos adopted them and he made them do his deeds to survive."

"I know, be sure to tell them that Asgard appreciates their help and they won't have to worry about any anger or consequences from me." Said Odin. "From being a father of an adopted child, I know and seen the hurt they face if they are being expected to be one thing and they are hurt from the expectations, if they are not planning to cause trouble and truest have changed their ways then I will give them a second chance."

"You are willing to give them another opportunity in life?" Said Thor not even bothering to stop himself. "But not of your own son?"

"Thor, the difference between the two of them is that Thanos's daughters didn't know any better and for Loki, he did." Said Odin. "Unfortunately sometimes the ones that you may care about is far too gone to even be saved."

"Well then, it is a good thing that Loki is no longer with us then. In your eyes at least, since he is supposed to be beyond saving?" Said Thor as he crosses his arms and catching Odin by surprise.

"The laws are the laws Thor, nothing can change them or the past." Said Odin. "Are you going to tell me more of the current state of the universe or are we planning to spend the time arguing over ethics because of Thanos's lies?"

"I believe the stress must have finally gotten to me and the grief that I have been feeling in the past and most recently. For that I apologize father." Said Thor as he takes a breath. "I think I am going to need some time for myself and stay away from this place for as long as I can, I think I may need time to live my life and heal from all of this."

"Yes, you may return to Midgard to stay as long as you may need to and you can take the throne only when the time comes." Said Odin seeing that maybe this is all for the best.

"I also have a small request to ask of you and it comes with the utmost importance." Said Thor.

"What is this important request may I ask?" said Odin.

"I may need multiple vials of the potion, a few of my friends got hurt during the fight." Said Thor. "I am asking since you no longer need an infinite supply of the potion, if I can gather an amount and take it back to Earth to help my friends."

"I am assuming that some of you need a lot if you are asking for my permission?" Asked Odin to get a clear idea on how much Thor is asking for and needs.

"Yes, I will need as much as you can possibly give me and will have to leave back to Earth as quickly as possible." Said Thor. "They need it right now or they will suffer even longer than they should have. I know that it is too unconventional and that it would be too much to ask. But I need to help them and I would never forgive myself if I knew I had a way to help them and I couldn't do so."

"What are these injuries that have you so concerned for them?" Asked Odin.

"One of them is suffering through a concussion after Thanos threw her against the wall, she is having trouble walking and remembering her memories and the other..." said Thor stopping himself as he remembers Loki. "He nearly lost his soul, Thanos tried to take it and then after the battle, we gave it back and he is really injured and needs our help to recover. They both do."

At that moment, there is a silence in the room and one that seems to be dominating the room. Thor is hoping that Odin didn't figure out what was really going on and that he doesn't realize the truth, the one that he is desperate to keep from him. The one that Thor is wishing that it wasn't the case and that his father would have been more open in giving Loki another chance and that he wouldn't have to worry about the laws and placing Loki in more trouble. But he knows that he has to do it and he has to get the potion to help his brother and Nebula, they are both counting on him and he can't afford to fail them both. Though the worst that would happen is that Nebula would lose herself to the concussion and Loki taking months to recover from entire ordeal. He carefully looks at Odin, with the hope that he is not going to suspect a thing or even if he is then he simply hopes that Odin would overlook and not figure it out. The tense moment only continues that is until...

"You may take only eight vials of it, personally I think that it would be much and that you only need a two, but to save you the trip and judging from their conditions then we can not predict what is to occur." Said Odin. "You may grab them once you leave, but note that Hiemdell's funeral is tonight and we still need to find a new gatekeeper."

"I am going to attend and I believe that I might have an idea on who might be capable for the job and will leave for Earth tomorrow." Said Thor. "I only wish the best and will return when I am ready to come back."

"I may not be able to wish good fortune or approve of the choices that you are making right now, but I am pleased to know that you have finally found your path to wisdom." Said Odin. "I only wish that you will come back when the time is right and for you to be ready to not only take the burdens of the throne and the burdens of life through wisdom and a heavy heart."

"Thank you for your generosity and I do not know if I can truly take the throne and know that I can never be free from it." Said Thor. "If I am best to protect the realms, I am better off living my days on Earth and to protect them from anymore threats like Thanos and anything else that may be worse than him. From all of this, I realize that life is far too short to follow a chosen path and it is even more so for humans. I would like to spend as much time living my life and with the friends I have made and the people I love than be placed on a throne with no one but advisors to keep me company."

"You are free to leave, my son. I only hope that you would not be too disappointed after you find the truth." Said Odin as he faced the reality right before him.

"Thank you Father, I will introduce you to whom I may think will be the perfect candidate to be the new gatekeeper." Said Thor as he takes one last look of the throne room before leaving.

Thor is just relieved and disappointed that it the meeting was over. Now there is no turning back and he really wishes that there is a way for things to work out on all ends. That Loki would be accepted back and both his father and brother would be on good terms and that Loki can finally gain the approval from their father that he has always yearned for. But he knows that is not the case or anywhere close on becoming a reality and in order to keep Loki free, he is going to have to keep Loki's secret. He can't believe that his father would be so cold hearted and not take the time to see that his son is back and has changed.

Thor really wishes that there is another way and he can show Odin and the people of Asgard and Earth that Loki is not the person that they all thought he was anymore. That they all can see how much Loki has changed and how he really is a good person that only wants nothing more but to be accepted and be allowed to live his life freely rather than being trapped in a role or a place where he can't find an escape. He has to find a way to make sure that his brother remains free and he already has an idea on how he is going to do so and only hopes that he knows what he is doing. At least the hardest part is over and now he has to make sure that Loki's secret remains a secret and then maybe he will at least be fine in the future.

As Odin watches Thor walk away from the throne room, he is thinking hard on the question that Thor just said and how would he react if Loki was alive. He meant what he said earlier and yet at the same time wish he doesn't have to do any of it. That he would be able to seek his son and ask for his forgiveness and to somehow rebuild the bond that has long been broken. He knows that as king, he has to follow the laws that he and the many kings of the past has set before him, but as a father, he doesn't know how to balance his responsibilities and his affection to do what is best. He wouldn't even know what to do if it were the case and is simply glad that he does not have to. Loki has been dead for two months and is still dead today, even if he was for some miracle is alive, then it would be best if he doesn't know. Odin is only glad that he doesn't have to be placed in this situation and Loki no longer has to endure any more misery, even if it means he can never see his son again.

---

Meanwhile back on Earth

Loki wakes up from the slumber that he figures must have over taken him in the previous night. He is glad that he is now starting to feel more like himself again and that he is now starting to feel as though his soul is finally back in place with him and that it is finally back right inside him where it belongs. He tries to see if he can move up and how his strength is, tries to see if he can at least try to sit up and to much of his relief, Loki was able to do it on his own. He is happy to see that he can now move around again and maybe even possibly can walk, but Loki is surprised to see that Darcy is still there and sees that she must have fallen asleep while they were spending time with one another.

From one look at her, he can tell that she must have had a rough night and one that is really affecting her in the wrong way. Loki can see that sleep didn't exactly help improve her mood and from seeing her sleeping on a chair, it definitely looks anything but comfortable. So Loki slowly tries to get out of the bed and to his surprise, he is standing and quickly take a few steps and is happy that he can walk again. Now knowing that he is almost healed and once his magic returns then he knows that he will be fine and that he is completely healed.

So Loki went over to where Darcy is sitting or rather sleeping, he picks her up gently and places her in the cot. He really wishes that she would simply wakes up and tell him everything that might be on her mind. But judging from everything, Loki knows that Darcy had a rough night, along with a rough week and might have not slept well last night. So Loki thinks that it might be best to let her sleep and then maybe she will be back to he usual perky and yet enjoyable self.

He figures that since he is now up and awake, maybe he should go and try to see if he can find something to eat. But first Loki knows that he would need to change because the clothes he has been wearing has been completely messed up and now so dirty that he would need to wear something completely different. He notices that Darcy must have brought a couple of things from their apartment for him, once he catches an eye on Darcy's bag and sees that it's open with some bags of snacks that are mostly empty at this point and on the bedside table, his sword lies on it, along with some of his books piled to the side and what looks like his clothes. At least Darcy did a great job of choosing the necessities for his unplanned stay in the tower and brought a set of clothes. Well the Midgaurdian clothes that Darcy bought for him to fit in, if he has to go out to blend in. But it's the only outfit that he has at the moment and it is going to have to do. So he picks up the outfit and heads towards the door and wonders what kind of security measures the Avengers might have in store to make sure that he stays in the room.

But when Loki opens the door, he is surprised to see that there was no one standing guard or let alone anyone in the living room area of the tower. There might be someone outside of this pent house and then he might face them. Though he is relieved that Tony built a rest room area where he can change. But he misses his magic and how convenient it is to simply use the spell to change into any outfit he chooses, at least it won't be long now, he will get his magic back and will change back into something that feels more at home.

He enters the bathroom and simply changes his outfit into something that is casual and yet functional. The outfit that Darcy wound up bringing for him is a dark green button up shirt and black Jean like pants and these darker shoes. Though he is not really surprised to see that Darcy decided to go with a casual approach when it comes to him wearing something that isn't just a suit or tie, but at least it looks presentable and he can simply wear it for the day until his magic comes back and he can simply put on his Asgardian clothes once again.

Loki leaves the bathroom and starts to head his way towards the exit. Feeling a sense of hunger and yet tired being in the same room and area. He figures it wouldn't hurt quickly going in and getting something and then leave before someone notices. Though he doesn't know what he is going to do with anyone who might be standing guard and if they are possibly going to stay there for as long as he is in the tower for a security measure and one that he can understand if the Avengers set. But once he arrives to the door, Loki is surprised to see that there was no one that that is standing right outside waiting for him.

He doesn't know why there wouldn't be anyone guarding the door or what might be going on? He doubts that it has anything to do with Thor returning back from Asgard this soon, since he knows that if Thor came back then he'd be in the room and being a little too concern for his own good. But he knows that he should just head downstairs grab something to eat and then head back right to his room before one of the Avengers finds out. He really misses his ability to create illusions, then it would have make this quest a little more easier for him.

Loki steps out of the pent house and quickly makes his way to the kitchen. He sneaks around a little bit through the halls to make sure that he gets there right before anyone spots him. Fortunately for Loki, there is no sign of the four Avengers that he wants to desperately avoid and he can simply just go in and get what he wants without making a scene. At least he is now on good terms with Bruce or at least out of the four of them, if he has to talk to one of them, then he would probably pick Bruce and even then he doesn't want to be anywhere near him when he transforms into the Hulk.

But still he is just relieved that there is no one walking through the halls and he can simply walk straight to the kitchen without even worrying about causing any trouble. Loki wonders if the Avengers are in another meeting about what happened and if the Guardians are still working on the ship? Despite not having the option to stay for long, he sort of wishes that Jane or any one of the Guardians will be in there, so he can talk to someone and yet he knows that it might be best if they weren't, so he can simply just leave and hurry back before someone spots him. No matter how much he would want to stay and take it easy and possibly even have some company.

Soon Loki arrives in the kitchen and he sees that it is mostly empty. Well the only person that he sees so far is Gamora and at least seeing her just made him feel a sense of relief. That at least it's a friend rather than someone who is just going to mistrust him and spend the majority of the time letting their suspicions get the better of them. Loki slowly walk into the room and hoping that if they are going to talk that it will be brief and then he can get back before someone comes in and hold the past against him, no matter how much he would want to stay out and maybe even be able to relax in somewhere that isn't just his room. But he knows that he is probably not wanted and everyone else is only putting up with him because of the fact that he caused all of these problems in the past and everything that happened. He goes up to the cupboards to see if he can find anything that he can eat, with only Gamora taking notice and seeing that he may be starting to get better physically, but he still has a lot on his mind.

"Hey," said Gamora simply grabbing a hold of Loki's attention.

"Hi." Said Loki as he looks at his options and what might be best to eat, before setting on cereal and grabbed a bowl to start to pour some in.

"I see that you are well enough to finally be out of bed." Said Gamora. "Are you feeling better?"

"Yes, more so than I was back on Titan. I am starting to feel my old self again and the only downside my magic is still dormant, but I am sure that in a day or two I will have my powers and magic back." Said Loki. "It just needs a little more time, but at least I no longer feel really I'll and I can safely say that my soul has returned."

"That's good, you were really lucky that you survive." Said Gamora. "Not that many make it out alive, let alone be close to recover from it as fast as you did."

"I am really surprised that it was this quickly and yet grateful that was the case." Said Loki. "I think it has something to do with the sword, that it awakened something inside me somehow. That it will continue to grow and maybe that would explain my fast recovery."

"Maybe, you did start to become more powerful after you got that sword." Said Gamora. "Especially if we remember the legend that is behind the sword and what we have seen you do with it."

"To be honest, it is also said that my powers will also grow over time and we have no idea on how more power I will have once my magic returns." Said Loki. "I wouldn't be surprised if it continues to grow over it. Though I really need to come up with a new name for the sword, I am not going to go around calling it a damaged twig."

"Well at least you have plenty of time to think it of it." Said Gamora. "Though my sword has the capabilities to cut through hundreds of metals and is really durable. I wound up calling it the Slayer, simply because of its strength and the capabilities of hurting an Asgardian if I was in a fight with one."

"Now I know that name is taken, I will try to think of something, as you said I do have more than enough time to ponder about it." Said Loki. "Aside from swords, how is Nebula?"

"She is pulling through, but she is still having trouble with remembering some of her memories and has made great progress when it comes to trying to walk again on her own." Said Gamora. "I have been mostly helping her with that and it has been surprisingly been a great bonding experience for the two of us."

"I am glad to hear that Nebula is starting to recover from the concussion and her experience." Said Loki. "She is going to need more of that if she is going to recover and there are some that truly cares about her, if she gives them the chance."

"I have some hope that our relationship might improve now." Said Gamora. "Bedsides after seeing your and Thor's relationship become anew, it gives me hope that Nebula and I can rebuild the bond that we lost."

"Now that is a good example, if I have to be honest I would have never thought that we would have fixed our friendship and now the bond between Thor and I is now stronger than it has ever been before." Said Loki as he picks up the bowl and grab a disposable spoon. "I only wish that Odin sees to reason and the same goes to the Avengers..."

"Thor will figure something out, he is not going to let you go again. Even more so now with everything that has happened and how he was ready to get stranded in another dimension just to save you." Said Gamora. "As for the others, from what I have seen so far, they are at least ok with having you here and looking out for you."

"Gamora, the first time I met Thor's friends, well at least the four of them here..." said Loki who stares down, ashamed of his past, "I mind controlled their friends, I am reason one of them is now dead and I destroyed an entire city just to take over a planet. Helping Thanos in his quest for power and believing that it would give me the approval that I yearned for and that I could be everything that I thought my Fath- Odin wanted, if not better. I didn't even stop to think or even cared, I was so angry and only wanted to prove myself and spite my brother, to be Thor's equal and-"

"Loki, what happened in this city was not your fault. Maybe some bits of it was your fault, but this is Thanos we are talking about, he always finds ways to bring out the worst in all of us." Said Gamora. "He tortured you, used the mind stone to put those visions in your head and gave you an ultimatum that you had no choice but to obey, you were also blinded by anger and hurt during that time."

"But it doesn't make it better, I still did all of those things and nothing can ever change that or make up for what I have done." Said Loki.

"Thanos made me do terrible things too and sure we can't change the past, but shouldn't the choices we make in the future matter even more?" Said Gamora. "Loki, you risked your life to fight off Thanos. You and Darcy tried to gather all the Infinity Stones and even after you lost them all to Thanos. You never gave up and did everything to make sure he was defeated, even ready to give up your own life to do it."

"But who was the one that led Thanos here in the first place, if it hadn't been for me-" starts Loki.

"If it wasn't for you then we all would have died and the universe would be destroyed." Said Gamora. "You saved us all and if saving the universe doesn't make things right in the end, then I don't know what does."

Loki can't help but feel some comfort by Gamora's words. He only hopes that the Avengers and Odin sees it that way as well. He knows that he would need to go before someone sees him. But aside from whether or not he wants to or not, there is something he just need to say. It is something that he feels like he should have said a long time ago and needs to say it right now.

"Gamora, I never had a chance to say this and no matter what may happen with Odin or anyone in Midgard or the Avengers..." Said Loki as he gives a sigh. "I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have done for me and for being a good friend."

"No problem." Said Gamora giving him a smile.

Before either of them can say another word, the next thing they both knew is Tony walking right into the kitchen. Catching both of them by surprise, Loki knows that this should be the part where he should just get up and go before any conflict arise and then it makes things even harder for all of them. He simply grabs his bowl and find a disposable soup bowl and poor it in there. Then he turns to Gamora, knowing that he has to go and just gives a sigh.

"Well then I guess I will see you whenever you are up in my room and be sure to bring the others if they want to come see me again." Said Loki to Gamora and quickly faces Tony. "Look, I already know what you are going to say. I shouldn't be here, I am not permitted to leave my room until Thor returns and you all never will trust me and I am nothing more but a criminal and I should be grateful that I am allowed to stay here rather a prison cell."

"I wasn't going to say any of that." Said Tony a little taken aback and didn't expect Loki to react that way.

"Not to worry, I am leaving here anyway and you can at least enjoy the room without my presence." Said Loki.

"You know you can stay if you want, I don't see a need for you to go." Said Tony. "Well it looks likes someone is feeling better if he not only can walk again, but he is back on being rude and all mighty to everyone he meets."

"I am not trying to be rude, I am simply trying to leave this place in peace and return to the room with no argument." Said Loki. "Beside this entire situation is mostly your and the others fault because there wasn't a guard right in front of my door and thus making it easier for me to get in and out, a bit of a security problem."

"We weren't planning on putting guards or keeping you locked up in the room or anything like that." Said Tony. "If you want you can have your cereal here and just relax for a little bit. Really it's alright."

At that moment, he grabs something from the fridge and sits down. Making a gesture for both Gamora and Loki to join him. Loki looks right at Tony and then Gamora completely unsure what to think or how to make of the entire situation. Gamora just gives him an encouraging nod and Loki simply heads over to the table to sit. While Gamora stands in front of the counter, not knowing if she should give the two space or just stay in case Loki might need help and a argument breaks out. Though Loki doesn't even know what to say or if he can even say it.

"So having a late breakfast?" Asked Tony trying to start of the conversation on a friendly note.

"Isn't it still relatively early for one to eat breakfast?" Asked Loki a little confused.

"Yeah, if you call ten am early." Said Tony. "You and Darcy pretty much slept in."

"Ok, this is surprise, it's rare for me to sleep in." Said Loki. "I must have been more tired than I thought, at least I am no longer feeling ill, so that is something I can happily say and I am really glad that this week is almost done."

"Well, I got to say that this week has been wild to say the least and I am so glad it's over too." Said Tony rather casually. "Now that we no longer have worry about the giant purple Voldemort, I really think that once Thor gets back and you and Nebula are up to it then we should celebrate. Maybe go a little wild on junk food, how do you guys feel about cheeseburgers?"

"Well, I never had one, though Quill talks about missing them." Said Gamora.

"I for one am not a fan, not only the dish is completely inferior to many of the delicacies I ever had." Said Loki. "But it is completely unhealthy and made of the worst meats imaginable and not only processed but is entirely made out of red meat. I honestly don't know how you, Darcy and anyone else can enjoy them, let alone eat one."

"Ok, get Gamora a burger and Loki hates them, at least burgers are off the menu if we have a celebration." Said Tony. "Let me assume that you are more of the classy elegant food type."

"Well I am more into something that is not only delectable but also is not going to give me indigestion from one look at it." Said Loki. "The only Earth food that you would see me eating pizza and ice cream, that just about the only ones that fit to the standard of Asgard."

"Alright, then Asgard has really good food if you have that high standards." Said Tony. "Why didn't I even ask Thor to-"

"What is it that you are trying to do exactly?" Asked Loki with a hint of suspicion in his voice.

"What do you mean by-" starts Tony right before...

"You do not have to play this game anymore, I know that you all have your emotions towards me and only letting me stay in your tower because of your friendship with Thor." Said Loki. "Now I am here completely vulnerable, you all are trying to show me compassion and kindness in hopes that I would trust you all. Then the first chance you all get is to put me in a cage and make me pay for my past crimes. Out smarting the trickster is the Avengers' perfect idea of revenge or revealing my secret to this entire realm."

"Loki, I don't think-" starts Gamora not even sure if she is helping, but last thing she needs is to end a fight that no one needs to think who is going to end up the winner.

"Ok, why would you think that?" Asked Tony confused by Loki's attitude.

"It is because we are on opposing sides, ever since we first met and I was working for Thanos and-" starts Loki

"Working for Thanos against your will." Said Tony pointing out a detail.

"It doesn't matter if it is voluntary or not, I still helped him in his quest and Sure, I may have lost but I still created all of that damage." Said Loki. "I caused more harm to anyone on this planet than anyone may have done to it in history."

"Well to be fair, Thanos did send you and attacked this planet three times if we count your little attack." Said Tony.

"Are you two really doing this?" Asked Gamora not even sure what to think about all this.

"My point being is that if it weren't for me, none of this would have happened and maybe it would have taken Thanos longer to make an attack or gather the Infinity Stones." Said Loki. "Instead my actions not only provoked him into coming after me and once he knew that I had all of the remaining Infinity Stones and I had them all on Earth then he made his attack."

"Well, he was obsessed with making sure that you paid for the last time, so-" starts Gamora wanting to be a voice of reason and end this conversation, before...

"It was my fault that he came to this planet in the first place, I could have fought and refused instead of letting the temptations of power and my insecurities take over my better judgment." Said Loki. "I wouldn't blame you and you're friends on being angry about everything I did and hating me for it. I may not know what consequences you all may be planning to do to me, but I know that I deserve it and will accept whatever punishment you and the other Avengers are going to give me."

"We are not going to punish you or reveal your identity as Mysto." Said Tony quickly, with Loki just giving a look that anyone would think he knows what might be coming.

"Terrific, so exactly what do you all want me to do to either prove that I mean no harm or to earn my place to stay on this planet if I may chose to?" Asked Loki. "It's one of those two options or blackmail me into doing whatever you all may see as appropriate. Since now you you have the trickster at your mercy and it is the perfect opportunity to make me pay for everything I have done, I deserve it..."

"Loki, you don't have to do anything." Sad Tony. "We are completely fine with you being here and we are not planning to reveal your secret."

"What?" Said Loki in disbelief on what he just heard and his luck. "Why would you and the others offer me mercy and not taking advantage of this situation for everything I did?"

"Loki, you were captured by Thanos and he made you agree to do terrible things on this planet to get the Stones and was a total jerk during that time. But that was then and this is is now, you have proven that you can be brave and kind hearted in your own way." Said Tony. "You have changed a lot since we first met or rather officially met, you know when I was giving the whole if we can't beat you and save the world then we will avenge it speech and then later you threw me out a window."

"Wait, you threw him out a window?" Asked Gamora who doesn't know what to make of that.

"Yes..." said Loki feeling a little uncomfortable about that detail. "I am really sorry about that."

"You did save us from being trapped with Thanos and all of our lives and the universe by going out of your way to stop Thanos." Said Tony. "To the point that you nearly sacrificed your life to stop Thanos, though to be honest, I am still wrapping my head around that because you are the last person I would have thought to do that."

"Are you going to get to the point or are you going to just repeat my heroic deeds to me?" Asked Loki wanting nothing more but this conversation to be over and know what Tony is trying to say.

"I am saying that we are not going to hold the past against you and we'd be alright if you stay on Earth." Said Tony. "Since it's really obvious that you are on our side now and don't want to cause any trouble. Plus look I know that we had a rocky start, but let's try to start over and just be on the same page for once."

"This is a surprise, I don't even know what to make of your generosity." Said Loki, as he stops to realize that maybe he has a second chance.

"Well, you could always say thanks or 'wow I can't believe this, I'm so grateful for this chance and-'" start Tony.

"There is no way, I would ever say or react like that." Said Loki. "Though I am grateful for this even though you all don't have to. So that's it then? All we have to do now is wait for Thor to give me the final verdict if I am fully free to live my life?"

"Yeah, it definitely looks like it." Said Gamora finally jumping back in to the conversation. "But try not to worry about it, just try to make the most of today and then we'll see what happens in a day or two."

"I have to agree with Gamora on this one, just wait it out and see what happens before you start planning your next move." Said Tony, with Loki just giving a reassured look, before... "Ok, now that you two and your other friends are technically Avengers or at least close enough to be considered as ones. I should really think about giving you guys some nicknames, I at least thought of one for Nebula and she's cool with it. I think a good one for you Loki, how about Lokster?"

"Um... no." Said Loki rather flatly as he hears that name. "It sounds plain ridiculous and I do not want to be called that."

"Ok, you are not a big fan of me combining your name with trickster. But hey with your name and your personality, it doesn't give me much to work with." Said Tony. "For you Gamora, I was thinking-"

"Don't even bother, I am not going to partake in this childish Terran customs." Said Gamora. "Think about giving me one of those names, then they should be changing your other name to something more appropriate."

With that Gamora leaves the room, completely annoyed by Tony and yet happy to see that Loki is going to be fine being on this planet. Though it really depends on how things turn out for Thor back on Asgard. But still she has the confidence that things will turn out fine, at least from all of the signs are pointing it out to be. That is she hopes that things are going to turn out alright, then again has anything been predictable throughout all of this?

Though after Gamora leaves the room, there is an awkward silence between Loki and Tony. Neither one of them knows what to say or how to start of a conversation, especially after how Loki just went down on his insecurities and this is the first peaceful conversation between them. That neither one of them knows how to start things off or if they can even do so. Things were going to continue on with the silence, until...

"Is she always like that?" Asked Tony pointing towards the door.

"Uh, no, it is because she does not usually tolerate nonsense or want anything to do with anything that means putting her guard down." Said Loki. "But she is a good person who happens to see a deeper understanding to others, though she is a determined fighter, resourceful and loyal. Maybe that is why I came to value our friendship a lot more as time goes by."

"So I am guessing the two of you are really close?" Said Tony.

"Yes, we bonded during my capture with Thanos prior to my invasion and after we were once again reunited." Said Loki. "I see her as the sister I never had and one that I will always value her company as a friend."

"Alright you two are really good friends, that's great to hear." Said Tony wanting to keep the conversation going. "So, Loki... What do you do for fun? You when you are not chasing after Infinity Stones or dressing up as Mysto."

"Well, I usually read or practice my magic and now after my return to Earth, I also study more about the magical properties and this planet's culture and spend time with Darcy." Said Loki. "At least now, I will have plenty of time to do that if things go well."

"It will, Thor can be very persuasive when he wants to be." Said Tony.

"If you call persuasive running into battle and ready to hit everything in sight, then you're right, he is very persuasive." Said Loki with an eye role, remembering the last time Odin and Thor had an argument.

"Alright, that's actually... kinda a good point." Said Tony as he tries his best to keep in his laughter, but can't help but laugh at what Loki just said. "Well at least towards any bad guys that we face on daily basis."

"Well aside from Thanos, who is the villain of my story now?" Said Loki. "The one person that I sought for his approval might bring the end of my life and there will be no escape from that cell this time."

"Yeah, having dad issues are never the easiest to deal with." Said Tony. "At least, you have a dad that would drop everything to just to put you on the right road, mine was never around."

"To be fair, your father wouldn't throw you in a prison cell for your mistakes, no matter how horrendous they may be or put the law over you." Said Loki. "Mine would and I wouldn't be surprised if he is already getting the best guards, Sif and the Warriors Three to escort me back to Asgard."

"Maybe, but Thor is not going to let anything happen to you." Said Tony. "Look, from what I have seen in this past week, your interactions with him as Mysto and how he was during the whole New York incident. It's really obvious to see how much you two care for one another."

"Of course, we just went through a life or death scenario where we were close to a universal apocalypse and apparently I almost met my end." Said Loki. "Though I only wish that Odin would see that, how sorry I am and everything that has happened then maybe he would understand. But then again, he doesn't have the heart to accept Thor's relationship with Jane and his desires to remain on this planet, what would make me any different?"

"I guess that is the thing with parents, they at times they never understand where we are coming from." Said Tony. "Maybe someday the two of you will have a chance to sit down and patch things up between you."

"Maybe, but in all honesty is there any hope?" Said Loki. "Can one moment really change his mind? Isn't that what some parents do expect so much that you can never deliver and when you do it is not enough? It will never be enough, so what's the point in trying to fix a bond that has always been broken in the first place?"

At that moment, Tony didn't have an answer or know what to say. He can understand how Loki feels and yet doesn't even know what to say or do that might possibly help the situation. So he decides that it might be best to get the conversation to get started and to try to have it focus on something else that isn't current events or his own fears from the idea of facing Odin, he simply tries on the basic getting to know someone questions and to try to use this as a chance to get to know Loki and let him see that he can trust the Avengers. The conversation is running smoothly as he continues to let Loki tell him more about himself and he often share some details too or at least allow Loki a chance to engage. They are still in a place where they are not even considering themselves as friends, but close enough that they can both tolerate being in the same room together. As they continue to talk through the morning and as Loki eats his breakfast.

---

An hour later

Loki leaves the kitchen area with the simple hope that things would end the way he wants them to and Thor would give him an answer that he hopes he won't be dreading. At least he finally found something in common with Tony Stark of all people. Once he is done with his civil chat with him, he decides to go back to the room he is staying at to check on Darcy. Maybe she is awake and to see if she is doing better from the stress she has been going through from the previous night. Even if she doesn't want to tell him, he might as well go and see if she is alright.

When he arrives, he finds that the room is empty and there's no one in the room. Loki realize that Darcy must have woken up and left during the time that he was talk to Gamora and Tony. He just sighs as he sees the room being a bit of a mess and that Darcy didn't exactly leave things to how she originally found them. So he just simply pick things up a little bit and then once the room is somewhat presentable, Loki just leaves the room, so that way he won't be in the same room for most of the day.

He sees that the pent house part is mostly empty, assuming that the Guardians must be on the roof repairing the ship and for Gamora helping Nebula through her injuries. He decides to head back downstairs and see if there is anyone in the living room or somewhere. At least he hopes that it would be either the Guardians or Jane, since he doesn't know if Darcy would be up to speaking with anyone at the moment. Due to the fact, that she usually leave some kind of note to indicate where she has gone or if she will be back soon. If she goes someplace that isn't work, the store or any place he knows that she would usually go to. So he believes that it might be best to give her time for herself, then she can allow her emotions and her thoughts to pass through and then maybe they can talk.

But until then, he is going to make the most of his day and try to see if he can enjoy it. At least he will have some time for himself in case everything changes and maybe even a time to fix some loose ends before then. At least now he has a chance to relax a little bit and then he can face whatever the future will bring...

Soon he arrives to the living room area of the tower and finds it still damaged from the ship breaking the window. Though he notices that it was cleaned up and the only thing that is there to know that anything that happened is a giant blue tarp covering the window. He sees Jane sitting right on the couch, looking at her phone and trying to keep herself busy. Seeing that she is there, he decides to head over and just be there. At least she has proven to be a trustworthy friend and one that he would be ok with having a conversation with. He slowly heads his way towards the couch and then he sits down right next to her, not even knowing how to start of a conversation or if he can even do so, especially since there has been so many things going on. That he doesn't even know what to say if he can even say it at all. But he just wants to talk to someone and hopes that this would be the start of a conversation of some sorts. So he might as well start things off...

"Well this is a nice change from lying around in a room all day." Said Loki. "Aside from the fact that there's a literal hole in that window and a reminder of everything, it was nice to finally be out of bed."

"I am just happy to see that you are up and no longer in bed with your soul no where close on being dead and soulless." Said Jane. "It's good to see you up and moving around again. I'm guessing you're now alright."

"Almost, I still have to wait for my magic to return, but other than that it is safe to say that my soul has fully returned." Said Loki.

"That's great, things are starting to look up and you are going to be alright." Said Jane. "I bet Thor is going to be really happy to see you once he gets back and Darcy, have you seen her yet?"

"Yes, she came to see me last night." Said Loki. "We talked for a while, we must have spoke a lot if it resulted in us sleeping in so late."

"So I'm guessing that Darcy spent the night in your room again?" Asked Jane.

"Wait, what do you mean by again?" Asked Loki confused.

"Yeah when we got back, when Thor didn't want to leave your side for anything. Darcy came by to check in on you, when you were still pretty much in a deep sleep." Explained Jane. "After a brief chat with Thor, she fell asleep on the cot that was meant for him. They both spent the night in your room, looking after you and keeping each other company."

"Well to answer your question then yes she fell asleep in my room again last night, she must truly value our friendship as much as I do if she stayed by my side regardless of everything." Said Loki. "Did she say anything with you about anything that might be bothering her?"

"No, she didn't exactly say anything or hinted something like that." Said Jane. "Though after Thor called and say that you were alive then she was really excited, but then she tried to keep herself occupied by helping out in the tower or bringing you things that you might enjoy and- Now that you mentioned it, she has been thinking of things to do that guarantee that she would be out of the tower or no where close to your room, like if she was avoiding something."

"It is really odd that she of all of the humans in this tower is nowhere close to facing whatever is troubling her." Said Loki. "She once hit Thanos with a giant branch to keep him from using the Power Stone on me. If she is ready to confront the being that wants nothing more to wipe out all of existence and not face whatever she might be making her so upset is worrisome to say the least."

"I am assuming she always tell you if anything is bothering her?" Asked Jane.

"Yes, usually and why are you asking me?" Said Loki. "You have known Darcy far longer than I have."

"Well you live with her so you should know better on Darcy's normal living attitude." Said Jane. "Especially if she comes at you to talk to you about life."

"Let's stop right there before this becomes a debate and focus on what would be the best thing to do to help Darcy and what might be the source of the problem and then we can help her with it." Said Loki. "Once we do then she will be alright or at least I hope that she will be fine, then again I don't even know what might be going on. So I want to give her some time, but if it gets to the point where she is letting it bother her so much that it ultimately consume her, then that is where I'd intervene."

"Yeah, I totally agree." Said Jane. "We all have a ton to worry about and whatever problems that Darcy is going through is not helping decrease any of our concerns."

"But then again, I no longer have to worry about the Avengers. All is forgiven on their side and I doubt that they would go back on their word." Said Loki. "All I have to do now is wait for Thor to return and hear what Odin has to say."

"But who knows maybe it won't be as bad as you are making it sound." Said Jane. "Remember how nervous you were when you didn't want Thor to find out and you acted like it would have been the end of the world because he would never forgive you. Maybe this time won't be any different."

"We are talking about the king of Asgard, the figure that represents all of the nine realms who has never pardoned anyone in his reign." Said Loki. "He would never make an exception for me, he would never even dream of it. Fath- Odin would put the law first and make me continue my original sentence."

"Well he does seem the type who would follow a rule book without looking for any loopholes." Said Jane. "But maybe he can change it, since it does sound unjust to continue to condemn someone even after they prove that they changed their ways."

"Even if he does then there would be more factors because simply aside from the fact that I stopped Thanos." Said Loki. "It would not be enough for him, but it's ok, I am alright if Thor chooses to tell Fath- Odin everything and if the burden of this secret gets too much for him."

"Why do you keep stopping yourself from calling him father?" Asked Jane. "Every single time you are about to call him that, you stop yourself to cal him by his name. Why do you do that?"

"It is because we reached to a point where the damage has been done so great that I don't deserve to be called his son and vice versa." Said Loki. "I have long accepted it and has been trying to call him by his name since, even though it is hard to forget."

"But still he is still your dad, it might not be too late for you two to make amends." Said Jane. "Then maybe he can see how much you have changed and what you have done."

"I honestly doubt that, but to be fair do we actually blame him for having that mentality and after everything I have done." Said Loki. "I have hurt and betrayed everyone whoever cared about me when I was lost and didn't allow myself to see things clearly. But that is not who I am or will ever be again."

"Well at least we are getting along a lot better than how we first started out." Said Jane.

"You did slap me the first time we met and then we sorta reluctantly had to work together twice." Said Loki. "But eventually we learned to get along and I believe that it was worth it for Thor."

"Yeah and for us as well, especially if things work out." Said Jane.

"I don't know if I should stay with my original plan, I was thinking of leaving Earth to protect my secret and when I had nothing to lose if I just got up and leave." Said Loki. "But now everything has changed, I got my brother back, a place that I have grown fond of that I can now call a home, friends, well you, Nebula and the Guardians, and Darcy, who is my closest friend. I don't know if I would want to let that go."

"Then don't. You don't have to leave or hide from any of them anymore." Said Jane. "You can stay on Earth, continue things as you left them off before Thanos showed up."

"I could and then I will live my life and spend time with all of you." Said Loki. "That is until the Guardians finally fix the ship and they and possibly Nebula leave, but I am sure that they will visit from time to time."

"Yeah they probably will." Agreed Jane.

"But at the same time, I don't know what would be the risk and consequences if I stay." Said Loki. "Everything seems so perfect at the moment and I do not want it all to get ruined by an instant."

"Well, just enjoy it all while we still can." Said Jane.

"I believe I might have to before tomorrow comes and it change everything." Said Loki as he tries to keep his mood positive, as the uncertainty continues to try to to take over his mind.

"Let's try to change the subject, to keep our minds off all of it. Besides we never really had that much time to talk and hang out for fun since I discovered your secret." Said Jane. "So you want to start things off?

---

Meanwhile close by in the Hallway

Natasha and Steve have been working on dealing with the numerous phone calls that are still being called of questions about Thanos, Loki being Mysto and anyone else that might be trying to see if they get a answer or a clue of the mystery that they are all so desperate to solve. One that has been leading to more and more questions that are harder to answer. The two of them have been like this for hours, until finally all of the calls stop and they are free for now...

"Ok, this has to be the most phone calls I have to answer and lie to for most of my life." Said Natasha.

"If you think that's bad, try having a blank slate and trying to figure out what to say when hundreds of them are begging for answers from a question you can't answer." Said Steve. "But the important thing is that Loki is safe for now, as long as people accept the answers we gave them and we wait for all of this to die down."

"The question is how long will it take for it to die down?" Said Natasha. "They are not going to let this go, especially because of the fact, they want to know everything exactly how it happened and the idea that Mysto might possibly be Loki is something that excites, but yet terrifies them."

"Well we're going to have to make sure that they don't find out the truth then. Thor and Loki wouldn't want an angry mob to follow them wherever they go." Said Steve. "Do you think that there might be hope for Bucky?"

"Are you going to try harder?" Asked Natasha.

"Thor wasn't even trying and Loki found his way back and changed his tune on his own." Said Steve. "Who knows how many more we can save if we give them the chance to take it."

"Yeah, I see what you mean." Said Natasha. "I would love to have Yelena back by my side, if I can free her from the Red Room."

"We will find Bucky and your sister, we will find a way to save them." Said Steve. "I don't know how we are going to reach through to them, but we will find a way."

"Let's go to the living room, just take advantage of this break and grab something from the fridge." Said Natasha.

With that the two of them head their way to the living room to not only take a break, but to continue their chat. When they arrived to the area and sees that Tony did a great job on cleaning up, the only thing that is still damaged and would need to be repaired is the window. They also see that Loki and Jane are there, seemly hanging out and enjoying each other's company. To much of their surprise, seeing Loki being friendly towards Jane and seeing him up. They now know that Tony and Bruce were not exaggerating when they said that Loki has really changed and that he's a different person now. The two of them heads right in there, resulting in both Loki and Jane noticing and Loki turning his head away, not even sure how the two of them would react to him being there. While Jane knows that it's time for them to try to break the ice and for Loki to get on good terms with the four Avengers, she knows that Loki is alright with Bruce and Tony, now it's time for him to make amends with the rest of the Avengers. (Well four of them at least if they are not counting Thor.)

"Hey, so how's it going?" Greeted Jane rather friendly and not even knowing how to start off the conversation, but is ready to start one. "So I'm guessing that things are running smoothly?"

"The good news is that we have managed to get past the hundreds of reporters that would simply write and report the news as it is." Said Natasha. "The bad news is that we had to deal with the investigative reporters that doesn't seem to want to give up until they find their answers."

"So, we'll be ok right?" Asked Jane hoping that things are not as bad as it sounds right now.

"For the moment, everything is in a place where we can say that it would be safe for us to continue our daily lives." Said Steve. "But the only problem would be how to draw people's attention away from the questions and then they will move on."

"Maybe it would be best if Mysto disappears for a while. To draw the attention away from him, simply say that he is taking some time to recover from his injuries." Said Loki. "Besides I no longer have a costume or a need to be Mysto anymore, so there's no point in continuing on."

"You don't have to give up your new life just because of them." Said Steve. "You can still be an Avenger if you want to."

"To be honest, I am more of a solo hero if we are talking about me being an Avenger." Said Loki. "Even then I believe that it might be best if I simply disappear before they have a chance to figure it out."

"If they haven't heard anything about Mysto in a while then some may take it as the confirmation that they need to say that it's true." Said Natasha. "Mysto can't completely go away, but we might be able to do something that might be able to help."

"What do you have in mind?" Asked Loki with some interest.

"Simple we can have Mysto speak to everyone and have him tell whatever you may need to say." Suggest Natasha. "But only if we can make the disguise even better."

"What do you suggest?" Asked Loki who doesn't even know where she might be going with this.

"We are going to need to figure out a way on how we can make you not you." Said Natasha.

"How about your voice?"suggested Jane leading in Loki, Natasha and Steve to glance at her. "From all the videos they put out of Loki during his first visit to Earth, I noticed that he speaks in some of them and checked to see if there has been any kind of interview with Mysto and guess what, there's nothing."

"So you're point being?" Asked Steve a little confused.

"What if we do get Mysto to talk then Loki, you can use your magic to change your voice to something that no one might even recognize or lead it back to you." Said Jane.

"As much as I love the idea, we can't do any of this plan until my magic returns." Said Loki. "I honestly don't know how the three of you can stand living your lives without magic, I am close on losing my mind when it comes to having to live without it."

"Well, we never even had magic to begin with, so we can't really miss it." Said Natasha. "Though I have to admit that illusions would make sneaking around and into places easier."

"Be it as it may, I know for a fact that once one loses their ability to do anything then they would miss it. No matter how long it may take." Said Loki as he tries to see if he can do a simple spell or maybe his inherent abilities and so far nothing is happening much to Loki's disappointment.

"Just be patient, your magic will come back. You said that all it needs some time." Said Jane. "Then you will be able to use it as many times that you want."

"I know but it does not make things easier." Said Loki before he turns to Natasha and Steve. "Look, I know that we haven't exactly got off on the right foot and that you both may loathe me for everything that happened. But I want to say that I apologize for everything that happened and hope that you would find it in yourselves to forgive me for my past actions."

"It's fine Loki, I moved past that and besides we all have made mistakes in the past." Said Natasha. "From my own experiences, it is possible to pick yourself up and have a brand new start. Besides you seem more trustworthy now, you lost that side where you menace people and a destructive sense of anger. That alone gives me the confidence to know that you can be an ally and has changed your ways."

"Uh... thank you, I think..." said Loki rather awkwardly. "Are you really fine if I am on Earth, regardless if I stay or not?"

"Loki, it's completely fine, I have forgiven you for what happened." Said Steve. "You don't have to worry about your secret coming out from us."

"Really? Thank you, but I don't know if I deserve your act of kindness." Said Loki who is feeling guilty of everything that happened back in New York and the invasion.

"Well you did prove that you are sorry and deserve a second chance. I am going to give you that chance." Said Steve.

"I am honestly surprised that you all were that willing to forgive me this easily." Said Loki. "Did it have to do with the fact that I saved the universe?"

"That and the fact we believe in second chances, you have proven that you have changed a lot since we first met." Said Steve. "Plus I know what it is like to lose someone and not even know if I will ever have our friendship again or if I can find a way to save him."

"Don't give up on him, all he needs is time and you just have to continue to fight for him." Said Loki. "He can be saved, all he is someone to continue to stand by him. No matter what the obstacles may stand in your way."

"Are you always this good at being this encouraging?" Asked Natasha. "That and giving surprisingly good advice."

"One thing you all should learn is I am full of surprises and will keep on surprising you." Said Loki. "You all better get used to it."

"I think you might be right." Said Steve as he sees more of Loki's true colors and see that maybe he won't be that bad having around.

"At least he's not predictable." Said Natasha. "But don't get used to it, I think I will find the pattern."

"I doubt it, since I will try to put up a challenge." Said Loki. "Once someone finally gets a hold of thinking that they know me, I always turn the page and be one step ahead."

The three of them continue to talk and Jane is just happy to see that Loki is getting along with the Avengers. That the five of them are starting to move past everything that has happened and to start anew. That they are starting to build relationships. She is just happy to see that Loki is starting to get into a more happier place than when she first met him. That he will start to see that maybe he can have a life on Earth and he can be with Thor, Darcy and have maybe some friends or at least one through her and keep in touch with the Guardians. That is she is hoping that is the case and then they can move over to the future without ever having to worry about Thanos again.

To much of Loki's surprise, he seems to be ok talking with the Avengers and finding them less and less intolerable by the minute. He is seeing them through a new light and one that he thinks that he might be able to trust them with the secret. Since they are giving him a chance to stay Through the kindness of their hearts, not because of their friendship with Thor. Loki is even seeing their strengths shine through and how they continue to fight for what they believe in rather than allow the first person that they find convenient to take over. They are seeing him for who he is, not as a villain or the maniac that tried to take over the planet under the command of Thanos, but as just Loki. For that he feels grateful and he will always will be.

Before the conversation starts to head into a new level, the doors open up again and they see Wanda coming in. No longer wearing her leather superhero outfit and wearing a hoodie with jeans, she starts to walk right in. Hoping that the her friends would be willing to listen to her and help her in what she is going to do. That maybe they will let her do it tonight and then it will all be over. They are going to understand, they better understand...

While Loki, Jane, Steve and Natasha look at Wanda and they can see that she is thinking hard on something. Loki can see and tell that she is upset about something, he figures that it has to be Vision and Pietro. Natasha figures the same thing and only have the feeling that they are not going to like what they might hear. While both Steve and Jane are quietly hoping that whatever is going to happen is not going to result in a big argument. While Steve is hoping that Wanda is alright and that she is ready to start to heal from the entire ordeal. They watch Wanda stands right in front of them and is ready to say what she need to say and hope that they all would be willing to listen and then they can finally do it.

"Wanda, how are you?" Asked Steve. "We haven't seen you since Thanos's defeat."

"I am doing fine now." Said Wanda before turning to Loki. "I see that you survived."

"Yes, I guess Thor's stubbornness for once did some good if it saved me from death." Said Loki who is seeing something else going on. "Are you sure that you are alright?"

"I have never been better, in fact seeing you alive and well is giving me hope." Said Wanda. "Hope that I know that things will work out and if it works. But first I am going to need to ask you all a favor and it is important for us to do it. I was wondering if I can ask for permission to do this and if you all can help me do it?"

"What is it?" Asked Natasha.

"I would like to use the Infinity Stones to bring back my brother." Said Wanda catching the entire room by surprise.

"You can't be serious." Said Jane almost immediately in disbelief.

"But I am and only want to bring my brother back." Said Wanda. "I know that he can be saved and with the powers the Stones possess it is possible to do so."

"Wanda, that is exactly why we can't recklessly use the stones for every reason we come up with." Said Loki. "The Stones are so powerful that no one can ever predict what might happens after using them."

"It worked on you, Thor used the stones to bring you back." Argued Wanda. "If it worked for you then it will work to bring him back."

"At what cost? We don't know what the consequences may be if we try to bring Pietro back." Said Loki. "The stones can't be used without consequence and I know Thor used the power of the stones to bring me back, but he shouldn't have and the only difference is that I wasn't that far gone. My soul was simply taken from me, not absorbed by the Soul Stone and we can not play around with something that has the power that can change reality as we know it."

"The more reason why we should use them, we can undo all of the damage that Thanos has done." Said Wanda. "We no longer have to accept things as the way they are. We can bring everyone we lost back and have the power to make sure that our happiness will never be taken away again."

"Wanda, no offense but you are starting to sound a little bit like Thanos." Said Natasha. "Only he would want to change reality to fit his bidding without worrying about the consequences."

"I am not a monster like he was." Said Wanda rather defensively. "All I want is bring my brother back and set him free from the Soul Stone. Is that too much to ask?"

"Of course not Wanda, but what you are asking us to do is too dangerous. Even if you used the Stones to wish Pietro out of the Soul Stone then he would die right here and there." Said Loki. "If we continue wishing to ensure his survival then we might set off a catastrophe or a chain of them. We have no guarantee if it would be safe or if we will succeed, sometimes it is much better to let it go then allow yourself to be consumed by grief and regret."

"Out of all the people in this room, I thought that you would be the one that would understand the most." Said Wanda. "How many times you wished to undo what you did and bring your mother back? If you have the opportunity would you even care enough to do it?"

"Wanda, we can't play around with something that we don't understand or trust that things work out through blind faith." Said Steve and he quickly notices that Loki is trying hard to hide his feelings towards Wanda's hurtful words and is failing. "Look, we all understand that you are hurting and you miss him, but you are not going to help matters if you cross every line and insult others for not meeting your demands."

"I am only stating the facts and they are that we are not doing enough. " said Wanda. "We have the power to do more than simply fight the fights that many can't even fight. We can end them, bring peace and reunite families and you all are not even taking the opportunity to do it. We are heroes, we are supposed to save the world, not let it continue on until the next big threat happens and we can't even stop it."

"When that happens then we will be ready for it." Said Steve. "Wanda, we are ready to help you, but we can't just jeopardize the entire universe to change everything that we wish that we can change."

"I came from a world, where the person in charge want to maintain control over everyone." Said Natasha. "It never ends well and we will be no different than him, we might just make things worse."

"I can't believe you, any of of you." Said Wanda angrily. "Here you all are, claiming that you care about the well-being of others and the moment you all can save him, you refuse to do it? How is it alright for Thor to risk everything to save Loki to the point that he had to use the Guantlet and it is not alright for me to use it's powers to bring my brother back?"

"Wanda, just-" starts Jane wanting to help.

But before she or anyone else can say a word or try to reason with her. The next thing that the four of them knew is that a blast of her powers came and knocked over the table. Breaking everything that was on it, they all turned to watch Wanda walk away and feeling a mixture of anger and hurt. She feels a sense of hurt because she really wanted some of the people that she ever considered a friend or ally to understand and maybe even try to help her by letting her do this. Along with anger on how they just outright rejected her and refused to help her, Wanda is not even going to bother with the others because she knows that they probably say the same thing. But all she knows is that she is going to need some time for herself before everything comes rushing back inside her.

As soon as Wanda leaves, the entire room is silent by the sudden outburst. That they just saw a hurt Wanda who doesn't even seem to care about how everything could turn out, as long as things go her way. After a brief few moments of recovery, Steve got up and head towards the closet and grab a broom to start by helping clean up the mess that Wanda just created. Natasha just sits on the couch and places her feet up to the table right in front of them, to much of Loki's annoyance by her bad manners. While he just gives a sigh and simply turns on the giant tv with Jane joining him, not even sure what to say about everything that just happened.

"Well that could have ended better." Said Natasha.

"It definitely looks like that she is still not alright after what happened to Pietro and Vision." Said Steve. "I just wish that there is a way to help her and that it would be something that might be enough for her to heal."

"But that's the thing, would it be enough for her? She wants to use the Stones to bring Pietro back, I don't think or know if she is ever going to let that idea go." Said Jane.

"To be honest, I do not blame her and see her point on what she said, about being able to bring a loved one back if one could." Said Loki. "But as much as I would want to grab the Guantlet and wish for my Mother to be back and undo what I did, I know I can't. I would not be doing the universe any favors if I put it in jeopardy and later have it pay for it. "

"Wow, that was deep," said Jane. "you really have changed..."

"I know for a fact that she wouldn't have wanted me to do something like that and if I really am sorry than I should do acts that prove I want to make amends." Said Loki. "Not to fulfill my selfishness and not even think of the consequences in the long run."

"Should someone go talk to her or-" starts Steve.

"Just give her some more time, she will get through this." Said Natasha. "She is just upset and misses them, once she has the time to think then she will start to move on and hopefully let go of this idea."

"I hope you're right, but I doubt it." Said Loki. "From my personal experience, the power of grief will only continue to try to consume oneself and it will never stop until it ultimately changed you either for better or worse."

"Yeah, but she has us and we will continue to stand by her." Said Steve.

"Unfortunately it is not as simple as that, her emotions are now more wild than it has ever been and she is letting grief and anger consume her." Said Loki. "If it continues than I worry that we might lose Wanda and she will become a shell of her former self and then her pain and anger will sneak through to us."

"Have you always been an expert in this?" Asked Jane.

"No, I felt it and it is a feeling that I would never wish on anyone." Said Loki. "The pain is insufferable and the grief will only grow unless someone finds the courage to move forward."

"You make it sound so easy..." said Steve remembering his life before the ice.

"Do you think that Wanda can find it within herself to get past this?" Asked Natasha.

"I hope she does, since there are two paths that one takes if they are ever in a scenario like this. They can either use this experience as a stepping stone to find great strength or let it consume and destroy them." Said Loki. "It only gets harder the longer one acknowledges it and that it will only hurt them even more..."

They all know that if Loki is right, then Wanda is only hurting herself even more and letting it all continue to let her overtake her emotions. That there is away someone can help her and if they can give her the comfort that she needs. But still there is the hope that maybe Wanda will see for herself that she needs to move on and find the strength within herself to move forward. That she can get past this, but still only time will tell if that hope is valid and if Wanda, themselves and the others are not going to be facing a bigger problem , one that won't be as easy to fix and would hurt Wanda more than she is going through right now...

---

Meanwhile back in Asgard

Thor is making the most of his time, trying to quickly solve each issue that is either connected to or might effect Loki in some significant way. He already found a new gatekeeper and convinced Odin to let him take the job, to much of his father's reluctance. At least that part is done and wonders how Loki is going to react once he finds out who the new gatekeeper is. Though he is going to have to worry about that on the following day and that alone will at least be entertaining. He just hopes that all of this will guarantee that Loki will be safe and no one will discover that he's alive and only just have to do a few more things before he leaves to Hiemdell's funeral and for him to return back to Earth.

Right now, he's in the library, looking through every book he can find and reading them. Trying to find some answers to the questions that Loki and also himself is asking. Thor wants to find out as much of the Infinity Stones and the Laevetin as he can before having to leave tomorrow. So far he is learning so much and every single time he finds a useful piece of information, he always takes a picture from his phone and then he will let Loki read it later.

He is just relieved that after reading more about the Soul Stone and what happens if someone had their soul removed and then later have it returned. Thor is just happy to read that once it was done then the person in question will be out of danger and that Loki is going to be fine and he just needs a few days to recover. The history of the Infinity Stones is really interesting and he knows that Loki would love to read it, the only downside is that he doesn't know if there is a way to get Loki these books without someone eventually noticing that they are missing and start making some kind of connection where they realize that a specific group of books are missing and somehow figure out that it's connected to Loki. Thor knows that it is highly unlikely for everything to play out that way, but he is not taking his chances.

He also starts to look for and read any books about the Laevetin and the history behind it. Since he knows that Loki has questions and he doesn't even know how he can bring up these questions without earning some from his father that might guarantee in something slipping out. For now, he is just looking through books of artifacts, Asgard's history and even some children's books to get any information he may need or a hint of what might be the answers that his brother desperately needs and ones that continue to cross Loki's minds. Thor knows that this is his only chance to do this and he is not going to lose it. So he has to find out now, so he conduct research by taking all the pictures and notes that he can. It looks like nothing is going to break Thor out of this trance until...

"I never thought that you of all the nine realms would ever be here." Said a female voice. "Especially something as complex such as the history of Uru and all of it's magical properties."

Thor quickly looks up and finds Sif standing right in front of him. He quickly got up from the desk, not even knowing what to say or how he can explain himself to her. Sif has always been able to be smart enough to find a way to get to the answers without anyone ever needing to say them out loud. So he has to be really careful, though Loki has always been better at this then he ever was. But he has learned a trick or two from his brother and hopes that he learned it well, since Loki's fate and his friendship with Sif depends on it.

"Sif, I was merely reading the history of the Stones to help father find a way to destroy them." Said Thor rather nervously.

"Uh huh, while reading children stories in between?" Asked Sif as she picks up on one of the children's books. "Why are you so interested in the story of the sword of Truth that you grabbed every available children's book that has the story?"

"It is because... it was Loki's favorite story and I thought that if I read the various versions of it then I would be closer to him..." said Thor rather awkwardly.

"Alright, that is understandable, especially since we all know how much he meant to you." Said Sif. "I never had the chance to say it, since you returned to Midgard so quickly and we were so busy dealing with the situation with Thanos before you left to head back to Midgard again. I am sorry about what happened to Loki."

"It is fine, he is in a better place now." Said Thor as he thinks about how Loki is now fine and safe back on Earth, he only wishes that he knows how his brother is doing right now.

"At least you have avenged him, after whatever history he had with Thanos:" said Sif. "Whatever did happen between him and Thanos?"

"I don't know, I don't think I want to know." Said Thor as he lies and remembers everything Gamora said and seeing Loki and Thanos interact. "But right now, I know I have to move on and that is what Loki, my mother and Hiemdell would have wanted for me to move on."

"So why return back to Earth?" Asked Sif. "Why not stay here and rebuild your life in Asgard? Surely this is the place that you are meant to be than a planet full of Midgardians and you can find your place here."

Thor simply shakes his head, he doesn't expect Sif to understand or see why he wants to return. He always feel more at home on Earth than Asgard, he doesn't think he just wants to remain on Asgard and go back to how it was before he was banished. He can't imagine his life without Loki, Jane, the Avengers, Darcy and now the Guardians. Who all helped him become the person he is today. He doesn't even know how he will ever be able to thank Darcy and the Guardians of the Galaxy, simply because they helped Loki and he doesn't even know how he can ever repay any of them for their help. So now he is going to simply go back to Earth and live his life there.

But he also thought about the life that he is now leaving behind on Asgard. All of the memories that he have made when he was on this planet and how much he has grown and all of the good times he had. The only thing he would really be leaving behind is his childhood friends, his father and the burdens of the throne that he is desperate to escape from. He knows that he is home on Earth and that he needs to go back to it. No matter how much he may leave behind and how he's not going to be returning to Asgard as often as he can and only going to limit them to the point that they are nonexistent, for Jane and Loki and whoever that he considers a friend.

"I can't, I offer the people on Earth my protection and I promised to return." Said Thor.

"I am assuming for her." Said Sif who honestly doesn't know what Thor sees in Jane.

"Of course, she is the one that showed me more than I can ever imagine and grow into some one who is more than just a warrior wanting to seek nothing but war." Said Thor. "She showed me that if I want to be a true hero then I would need to be kind, compassionate and brave, willing to fight for others rather than for battle. For that I will always love her and will be grateful for this wisdom."

"I see..." said Sif knowing that she might have lost all of her chances with the Asgardian prince. "Well I only came by to tell you that the funeral starts in a hour."

"Thank you, I will be there shortly." Said Thor: "I just need to finish my research and then put these books away. Then I will be along and be there to say goodbye to a good friend."

Sif gives a nod and starts to head on her way, while Thor is just giving a sigh of what just happened. On how he would never get used to lying to his friends, but he has to if he wants to protect Loki. He tries to quickly wrap up his research and taking notes on everything to make sure that he get as much information as he can. After rereading some details, taking last minute notes and realizing that some of the details are the same. So he starts to place the books away and start to head place the books back, with the many thoughts going on in his mind.

Thor knows that there are many things that he is going to leave behind and helping to keep this secret safe is not going to be easy. But he knows that it will be worth it, simply because of the fact that he would be on Earth, free and with the ones he cares for. With a bright future without having to worry about Thanos ever again and he can finally be free and have his brother back and be with Jane and his friends. Things are now finally starting to look bright and he is just happy for life to finally work out and be the start of a new beginning.

Once Thor finally places all of the books right back on the shelves, he starts to head his way to the throne room. Since that is where the funeral is being held, he knows that deep down he is not just saying good bye to Hiemdell, but to his life on Asgard for now. He doesn't know what the future may hold and he knows that he is going to have to face his father about the throne eventually. But for now, once the day is done then he is going to move forward and enjoy every moment, he has gotten everything he has always wanted and a life that he has never thought that would become a reality. So he is going to make the most of it, especially before something else goes wrong and is not going to let anything happen or come between him and Loki ever again. He just has to...

---

A couple of hours later, right back on Earth

Loki has been having somewhat of a good day back on Earth, to much of his surprise. After the time he had with Jane, Steve and Natasha and the sudden outburst of Wanda. He has been making the most of his time on Earth or at least in the tower, since he figured that if this is going to be the last day he is on this planet, then he better make the most of it.

At least Loki is trying to do so, since the most he has been doing is mostly reading, talking to the Avengers and Jane, he even tried to get Darcy to watch the Star Wars movies that she wanted to watch with him. Though he has been enjoying the complex themes in the first couple of movies and thinks the third one is the most interesting. Though before they can even finish the movie, when they reach the part where Anakin and Obi-wan, that is he thinks those were the names were talking and it looks like they were saying goodbye, Darcy stopped the movie and said she needed to use the bathroom, but never came back. From that he is starting to think that someone is going to have a talk with her.

Other than Darcy, he didn't see that much of the Guardians or Nebula today. Since Bruce and Gamora has been helping Nebula relearn to walk or get past that injury. While the others focus on the ship repairs, then later the entire team had to go out to get more parts with Tony, Natasha and Quill trying to make sure that Gamora, Rocket, Groot and Drax maintain a low profile. They all have been gone for an hour and he knows that the others partially have been wanting to go to see more of Earth. Steve is dealing with more of the phone calls and any more reporters that may try to snoop for answers. While Jane is taking the time to study on the science of the Infinity Stones, to get a better understanding.

He on the other hand is on his way to meet up with Bruce, since earlier he asked Loki to meet up with him for as a possible final progress report. But he is feeling better than he has been for each passing hour, Loki is just relieved that he is starting to feel his magic slowly returning and before he goes to find Bruce. Loki wants to try something and it's at least to see if it might work or speed up the recovery process. He heads right back to his room and sees the sword, though he is surprised to see that they somehow found a way to get it to the room and wonders how did they managed to do it?

Loki carefully picks it up, admiring it for a few minutes, hoping that his idea will work. He pulls it out right in front of him and placed himself in a fighting stance. Loki is ready to try to see if he can create a spark of magic or a small illusion or anything. He would even accept a patch of ice at this point and that is from his inherent powers. He puts all of his focus, with the hope that he would somehow find something that would give him a sign that his powers are returning. But so far, he doesn't see something that would indicate that his powers are returning. He doesn't even know why he would feel as though his magic is coming back and yet it doesn't show up. Loki just gives a sigh at the new development and just simply place the sword back on the table, he really wishes that he knows for sure when his magic will return and how long he will have to put up with this. But he knows that standing around and complaining about it is not going to help, he figures that it might be a good time for him to get his little meet up with Bruce over with.

Since he is going to have to meet up with him eventually and to see if he is perfectly fit to be considered healthy. Even though he insisted that he is fine and that there is nothing to worry about, but he already heard the same argument Jane, Bruce and even some of the Avengers that it would be important for him to have this check up for all of them to be absolutely sure that he is alright. Part of him is grateful that Thor is in Asgard and Darcy hasn't been around for most of the day, otherwise they would be doubling down and he wouldn't be surprised if Thor escorted him to make sure that he goes to the meeting. He can't even imagine how the Guardians would react, but he imagines that they would be easier to handle then Thor and Darcy.

He heads his way to where he thinks that they placed Nebula to stay. Hoping that Bruce would be there and they can get it over with, when he arrives to Nebula's room, he only finds Nebula sleeping and quickly closes the door not to disturb her. At least he knows that Bruce is not there and Nebula is now resting. So he starts to make his way downstairs in hopes that he would just find him and get it over with. After a quick search through Avengers Tower, he manages to find him in the lab and sees that he is looking at the Guantlet studying it. He doesn't see Jane anywhere and is safely assuming that she is taking a break or trying to look for Darcy. Loki heads into the room, ready to get this over with and only wishes that he can just use the Time Stone to speed things up. He notices that Bruce turns to see him approaching him, that only makes Loki dread it even more.

"Hey Loki, I am glad to see that you are feeling well enough to be out of bed." Said Bruce happy to see that the Asgardian's condition is improving.

"Well you saw me and now that we got that settled, let focus on the facts that my life is no longer in danger and I am halfway through a speedy recovery." Said Loki rather impatient. "Now with that settled, I will leave you to conduct your research and-"

"Hold on a sec bud, if this is supposed to be a final check in to see how you are doing then we really should do it right." Said Bruce.

"This is ridiculous, I am perfectly hale or rather almost because my magic still hasn't returned." Said Loki. "But other than that, I am fine and will do well."

"Loki, we are not going to do anything if you let your guard up and not let any of us help you." Said Bruce. "Just trust us, you're practically one of us now."

"There is no way I would ever want to be considered as an Avenger." Said Loki. "Not only I believe I do not deserve the title, but there is also the fact that I am more of a solo hero and one that is better off fighting my battles alone."

"But you don't have to anymore and besides you are now free from Thanos and can live your life here." Said Bruce. "Plus after everything that has happened and what you did to help, I think it is safe to say that we are at least on the same side. So can we try to get along for have whatever we had when we were at least bonding?"

"Fine, I will try to be friendlier for Thor's sake." Said Loki who quickly remembers that he is still guest in the tower and what the Avengers did and trying to do for him, so he figures that he should be more grateful and not let his own frustrations get in the way.

"Great, let's get started with me asking, well I would have asked how you are feeling but your response speaks for itself. " said Bruce. "I guess the next question I would ask is did you experience any of the symptoms you had a day ago."

"No, I am able to walk again and can think straight without feeling as though I was in Joutunhiem, badly beaten by a Frost Beast and at any moment be sent to the hottest environment in history." Said Loki.

"Ok, you feel great." Said Bruce. "So with that being said, have you experience any-"

"The only problem, I have been having is my magic." Said Loki. "I may be fine physically, but no matter how hard I try I can't use it. I feel it, but I can't cast a spell, make an illusion or anything. Not even use any of my Jontun powers, I just feel so empty without it."

"So you are saying that you feel that you're magic is back, but you can't use it." Asked Bruce with Loki simply nodding his head. "Do you know how long it takes for someone to get their powers back if they lost and regain a soul?"

"To be honest, no, I don't think I have ever read about how long it would take." Said Loki. "But I am wondering about how long it would take for it to return? I know I shouldn't expect it back so soon, but it has been frustrating for me to deal with."

"Why don't we try to see if it's working now or try to figure out the root of the problem." Suggested Bruce. "So you can use your magic to shapeshift yourself,others and objects right?"

"Yes, that is one of the spells that I commonly use." Said Loki as he remembers all of the times that he used it to help disguise himself.

"Do you think you can try to turn this pencil into an apple or something that is relatively small?" Said Bruce.

"I can try, I just only hope that I can do it." Said Loki as he puts himself in a spell casting pose and put all of his concentration on the pencil, with the hopes that something would happen as he closes his eyes. When he opens them, he sees that nothing has changed and gives a frustrated sigh.

"From what I am seeing is that you are trying to bring out your magic after feeling like if it has returned, but no matter how hard you try it is still dormant?"

"Yes, my power seems to have gotten to the point where no matter how hard I try, it never seems to show it's return." Said Loki. "Aside from feeling it having returned, I also feel like the magic inside me is stronger and more powerful. That I can simply cast a spell and it would be more powerful than how it was before..."

"Alright, magic is feeling stronger than ever and you somehow can't unleash it." Said Bruce. "Have you tried to use the magic sword you have been using?"

"I tried, but nothing and no matter what I do it just doesn't come back." Said Loki. "The last time I was fully able to use it was to keep my strength while I was battling Thanos, what if from using all of my energy, it led my magic and powers to end up like this? Do you think it's possible that I might have lost it for good? That's why it is not working and I might be stuck like this?"

"Loki, I don't think that you lost it for good and let's try not to get too ahead of ourselves." Said Bruce. "I think I might have an idea on what might be going on."

"Please do explain your theory." Said Loki, hoping that one of his worst fears does not become a reality.

"I think that maybe the reason why it is taking so long for your magic and ice powers to return is because of the fact maybe part of you is still tired." Said Bruce. "Think about it , you your magic to help keep your strength up when you were fighting Thanos right? The moment that your soul has been taken and that you needed your magic to help keep you alive."

"Of course, I had no choice in the matter and he would have killed Nebula and use all of the Stones if I haven't redirected my magic to give me the strength I may need to help fight him." Said Loki.

"That is exactly my point, you used your magic in order to get up to continue the fight." Said Bruce. "Since you are still recovering from all of that, what if your body just needs some more time to heal and that your magic needs to have more time to do it."

"Maybe..." said Loki. "I hope you're right..."

"Just take it easy for a day or two and rest." Said Bruce. "Be patient with your magic and yourself, maybe you will be able to use it in a couple of days. If it doesn't then we will figure something out."

"Alright, that sounds like a good plan." Said Loki. "Thank you for your help."

"No problem, aside from turning into the big guy, it's one of the things I do over here." Said Bruce.

Before Loki can even have a chance to respond, the next thing they both knew is that they see Jane running right into the room. From one look, they see Jane catching her breath and looking like if she has been frantically looking for something. Already seeing that she must have had a rough hour or so and must have been ready to go through the entire tower to get to there. Neither one of them knows how to start the conversation or what might be the best question to ask that would start to answer all of their thoughts that is until...

"Hey, sorry to interrupt whatever this is." Said Jane. "But I just been wondering if either of you have seen Darcy? The others came back and they brought some food, I can't seem to find her anywhere."

"Well, I haven't seen her since we were watching some of the films she wanted me to watch." Said Loki. "But she was definitely not alright, when we reached the third one of the Wars of Stars, she paused the film and left."

"Wait, the Wars of-" starts Bruce confused before stopping himself. "Oh you meant Star Wars."

"Yes, I did." Said Loki before turning to Jane. "Was there anything that happened on your side?"

"I tried texting her and all she said was that 'she's busy and will be there soon'" said Jane. "I don't even know if she reads them, since I asked her if she wanted to grab a snack and gave her some options. Then she responded with the same message."

"Ok, now this is getting to be really concerning." Said Loki. "I am assuming that this might be a good time to consider an intervention."

"Oh yeah, one of us definitely going to need to check in with her." Said Jane. "But the real question is how are we going to do it and where she might be?"

"Have you checked the roof yet?" Suggested Loki. "Since that is a great place if anyone wants to be alone."

"No, I haven't tried there, I will go check it out and-" starts Jane.

"It's alright, I will go and see if she is up there." Said Loki. "I believe whatever may be wrong started the moment my soul was taken, so I might be the best person to handle this."

"Are you sure? Since Darcy is mostly the type that would just blurt everything out." Said Jane. "It might be a little much."

"I lived with her for the past few months and she always tells me about her problems, even if it's for the littlest thing such as burnt food or the commute home." Said Loki. "If I ask Darcy about her day, then she will probably be going on and on until I start begging her to stop. I think I can handle this and be a good friend in this."

"Alright if you're sure, but be sure to come get me or call-" starts Jane. "Wait, you have a cell right?"

"We do have an extra phone, I hardly use it and let Darcy keep it as a spare." Said Loki.

"Maybe you should use it." Said Bruce trying to offer some advise. "In case of emergencies."

"I doubt that, most of the time I had more bad experience." Said Loki. "So I would be doing myself a favor if I simply just don't use it."

"But still it would be helpful if you do have a phone." Said Jane. "That way we can contact you without having to go through Darcy or one of us having to go find you."

"I will take that into consideration, but right now I need to go find Darcy." Said Loki. "I just hope that I am right and she is still in the tower."

"Relax, it's not like Darcy is going to just get up and leave." Said Jane. "Especially after everything that has happened."

"Knowing her, she is probably going to be ready to tell me everything and you will hear me later being annoyed by it." Said Loki rather light heartedly. "I will be back soon and hopefully Darcy and I will resolve whatever may be going on."

"Yeah, good luck and let me know if you need any back up." Said Jane.

Loki simply nod his head and starts to make his way to the roof. With the hopes that Darcy would be there and will be willing to tell him whatever is on her mind. He knows that it can't go on like this and she is going to need to talk to someone, anyone about whatever she is now feeling. If Darcy doesn't want to talk to Loki about this, then fine, he will get Jane to come up and let her try her luck. But right now he is going to try to see what's wrong and help in anyway possible, he just hopes that they can get somewhere with this talk.

---

Meanwhile, a few minutes later on the top of the roof of Avengers Tower

Darcy has just arrived to the top, the one place that she knows that she can fully be alone. The last time she was here is when she and Loki made up from their last fight and before he had to talk to Thor. She just needed some space and this has to be the perfect place to do it and she has to admit that Loki is right about the view. But at least she can finally have some space and can escape reality for a little bit. She doesn't know what to do or what to think or if she has anything to say.

Especially since tomorrow is the earliest that they will know and it will be the earliest of if they will ever find out what might be set to happen if Thor comes back. There are many questions going on in her mind and she doesn't want to find out the answers of even know if the answers going to be the ones that she wants to hear. Since even after everything, she knows that things might still have a chance to change and it would mean that many things are not going to be the same ever again. She just doesn't want to face it or be close to it, that maybe it would be better if she just avoids it all together. To make it easier to let go and she will at least won't have to say goodbye to all of it. She only wants to just to forget about her troubles and just be away from all of it.

Maybe now that she has some time for herself, she can take the time to process everything that has happened and just figure out what should be her next move. Since she doesn't know what will happen and even if both she and Loki are off the hook, Darcy doesn't know what might be next or if things will ever be the same. What might be happening up there that would guarantee a chance they won't have to pay the price and even then she would still have to say goodbye to Loki, who she just got back and might not even know if she will see him again. But still as long as he's alive, safe and happy then that is all that matters to her, but it doesn't make letting that part go any easier.

While Darcy is deep in lost thought, she doesn't seem to notice that Loki has just arrived to the rooftop or that he found where she is hiding. Loki can tell from a distance that she is unhappy about something and it is going to continue to bother her. So he is going to talk to her and now is a good moment to do so. He slowly makes his way towards Darcy, not even sure what he is planning to say or the entire conversation might end well. But he is going to try to be a friend and a listening ear, one that is ready to give her the comfort that she may need and one that he is ready to give her before the pain of the emotions hurt her more.

When he arrives close enough, he notices that Darcy still has not noticed that he is there. Loki simply decides that it might be best to take the gentle approach and try to get to the root of the problem. From a quick glance, he sees Darcy in a tight sitting position and she looks as though nothing is going to break from the position and she is trying to keep a straight face and yet is failing all the same. He might as well start this off casual and allow the conversation to get to the point where she is ready to talk.

"So I see that you like the view so much that you are now choosing to come here on your own?" Said Loki. "It is nice, though to be honest this is the first time I have ever seen it at night."

"Yeah, it's great, I guess..." said Darcy as she tries to keep her focus on the view and not on Loki, that is the moment where Loki knows he has to get straight to the facts.

"Darcy, are you ok?" Asked Loki. "You are not acting like yourself and more saddened about-"

"What? Of course, I'm ok. Why wouldn't I be ok?" Said Darcy rather frantically. "I mean, I am really happy now! We saved the universe and won, we totally need to go celebrating and have some fun! Yay!"

"Darcy, you have been upset about something all day and it is obvious that it has been bothering you." Said Loki. "I only want to know what is troubling, so I can help you get through it. Let me help you through this, as you once helped me."

"Loki, it's not really that much of a big deal." Said Darcy trying hard to hide her emotions.

"It must be a 'big deal' if you are so bothered by it." Said Loki. "Look, if you do not wish to tell me, then fine I understand. I will simply give up or perhaps you wish to speak with Jane. But I only want you to know that I am here if you need to talk and the rate we are going then it is going to need to happen sooner or later."

Darcy just turns away and doesn't know what to say or if she will be ready to say it. There are many thoughts that are going through her mind, ones that she doesn't even know how she is going to make it past these emotions. She would give anything to somehow have the power to keep tomorrow from happening. That or she can somehow hide how she is feeling from the world as well as Loki does, then maybe she wouldn't have drawn that much attention to herself from Loki and Jane. She just wishes that there is a way to stop it from happening, if it is going to happen. But aside from all of that, she can't help but laugh at something about the situation and it catches Loki by surprise.

"Do you find something humorous about all of this?" Asked Loki surprised at the reaction thus far.

"Sorry, I just find it funny how it was always me trying to get you to talk about your feelings and now the complete opposite is happening." Said Darcy. "You are trying to get me to open up and wanting to be there to be the voice of comfort."

"Yes, it is a strange twist of events." Said Loki as he can't help but laugh at the turn around. "But are you alright? We don't have to do this now if you do not-"

"Loki have you ever felt as though things are happening far too quickly and you would give anything to stop?" Said Darcy rather quickly not even bothering to catch her breath.

"Yes, I have gone through it so many times that I have lost count." Said Loki happy that he is finally getting somewhere.

"I really wish that it wasn't, I mean everything is just now... I don't know..." said Darcy as she stops herself and tries to turn away from facing him. "So what do you think is going to happen?"

"Sorry?" Said Loki unsure about what Darcy could mean by all of this.

"What do you think is going to happen when Thor gets back? Do you think your dad knows and going to come here with Thor? If he does then is he going to take both of us to jail?" Asked Darcy in a panicked tone.

"Darcy, if that ever comes to pass then I will tell Odin that it was all my fault and all you wanted was to help me fix my mistakes." Said Loki.

"I don't want you to take the blame for me." Said Darcy. "Besides that isn't the point."

"Then what is? Darcy, here you are letting all of this go through you're mind and you are not telling me what is the problem and-" starts Loki as he continues to be there for her and yet still confused.

"Things are changing and they are changing far too quickly and we don't even know for sure what is going to happen next!" Said Darcy finally blurting out. "We finally made it and yet we don't even know what things are going to look like or if we will have any of this again! I mean sure the Avengers are pretty much cool with us and we don't have to worry about Earth. But what is going to happen, if Odin does know? Even if he doesn't then it won't change the fact that now everything is changing right before our eyes and we can't do anything to stop it."

"Darcy... I know that things are uncertain and we have no telling what the future may bring..." said Loki. "But we need to remember that change is a part of life and unfortunately we can't escape it. We always knew that this day was coming and the day would come for us to deal with it and hopefully embrace the future."

"Yeah, but it doesn't make it any easier and at least we had an idea of what might have happened. But from everything that has happened, I don't even know if I am ready for that kind of change." Said Darcy. "Since either way, you are going to leave Earth and now I am going to lose you all over again. It also doesn't help that this is over and it's finally done and we might never have any of this again."

Loki now sees where all of this is coming from and understands why Darcy might be feeling this way. He can see how the fear of change is stressing her out and glad that at least he now knows. Though he really wish that there is a way he can help make things easier and to somehow ensure that things will work out. Then maybe it would make the entire situation easier and then she would be fine and ready for the future. He only gives a sigh and knows what he has to say and do.

"To be honest,it is better to just face it rather than fear it, even if it is impossible, I know how you feel..." Said Loki as he takes a look at both of his hands before facing Darcy. "I haven't been able to use my magic since back on Titan, to keep my strength up and continue on fighting. No matter how hard I try, it just doesn't work and I haven't been able to cast a spell and even my Jontun powers is working. I am now worried that I might have lost my abilities."

"What?" Asked Darcy turning to him surprised by this development.

"There is some hope, Bruce thinks from the amount I used to keep my strength is what is making my body feel so tired and in a day or two, my magic should return." Said Loki. "But I still feel it and it is as strong as it has ever been, if not stronger. I know it's there, but I just don't know if I have the chance to unleash it and that all of this might have taken a part of me that I don't want to lose."

"Hey, I am sure your magic will come back in time. You did go through a lot and need time to recover from it." Said Darcy. "Even if it doesn't, just know that magic doesn't make you who you are and no one is going to think any differently about you if you have it or not."

"I know, I hope that Bruce is right and I only need more time to recover." Said Loki. "But I am ready to face the possible change that might be in store for me, no matter how difficult it may be."

"You're magic and powers will return, it will take time." Said Darcy. "At least there's hope there, I don't even know if things will ever be the same and I am ready for this. Since there are many ways things can make some kind of turn and it might lead to us having to face your dad, there's still dealing with the Infinity Stones and figuring out what we are all planning to do to them and what's going to happen when you leave?"

"What do you mean by that?" Asked Loki a little confused.

"I meant, what's going to happen to our friendship? Since you would be hundreds of miles apart and I don't even know if cell phones even work thousands of light years. Don't get me started on the idea of you in the Asgard dungeons where there might not even be any visiting hours." Said Darcy. "Do you think that we might fall apart and never speak or see each other again? Sure I know in My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic always say that the power of friendship will be strong no matter what. But still how can we be so sure and we are not just going to end up in a world where we not going to end up like that?"

"Darcy, you were the first real friend I ever had aside from Thor and I am never going to forget that." Said Loki. "No matter what happens or if we end up worlds apart, we will always be friends and I wouldn't worry about us falling apart, I think that we can find a way to keep our bond."

"I would ask how, but I have the feeling that you would think of a way." Said Darcy.

"I always do." Said Loki rather confidently.

"This really feels like we kinda reached an end of era doesn't it?" Said Darcy. "We got the Stones, lost them, have an epic show down with Thanos and now might possibly be free to live our lives."

"Yes, it really does..." said Loki. "I don't even know what I should do next after this."

"What? Are you having trouble picking a permanent vacation destination?" Asked Darcy in light hearted manner.

"That's just it, I don't know if I should still consider on leaving Earth." Said Loki.

"Wait, really?" Asked Darcy surprised.

"Yes, of course, since I kinda grew fond of this planet and it is not like I might be able to go soon because the Guardians still need to focus on ship repairs." Said Loki. "The last I spoke to them, Rocket said from looking through the damage, it might take at least six months to a year for it to get fully repaired for it to be safe to fly in."

"Uh huh, it is definitely going to take a while for them to repair the ship." Said Darcy who can't help but smiling. "Groot definitely outdid himself with accidental ship damage."

"Of course he did, who knew that it was possible for him to cause that damage." Said Loki. "Though he didn't know better and is just child. Oh well, at least I am on good terms with the Avengers that we do not have to worry about any conflicts."

"Yeah you got us to have your back and you have gotten everything you have ever wanted." Said Darcy. "Even then it looks like you are stuck with us for a while, I was thinking if you ever need a place to crash. My place is still and always will be welcome to you."

"I think I am going to accept your offer, I would be happy to be your housemate again." Said Loki.

"Yeah, you're like an awesome roommate." Said Darcy as she gets up to stand and see the view. "So you really think that things will still be the same even after everything change and if we can be ready for what might be coming?"

"Darcy, I know that things are uncertain at the moment and you feel as though that it is the most terrifying thing in the world. It's ok, we all have moments like this and ones that are only going to keep feeling as we reach our end." Said Loki, as he also gets up but only to face Darcy, it resulted in the two of them looking at one another. "But I do know that we can't avoid it and no matter what happens, we are going to face it together. We made it so far together, if Fathe- Odin wants to apply justice on us, who to say we can't fight it. I know that it is going to become more complicated and there will be many challenges, but I know that we can make it work because... we are unstoppable..."

Darcy just stares at Loki for a second, feeling the comfort of his words. She doesn't know what to say or if she can even say it, yet she feels an earge, something that is making her feelings towards Loki even more intensely. Without a second thought or worry what might be said, Darcy quickly push herself forward, throw her arms around him and starts to kiss Loki. Feeling all of the stress of the change go away and allowing her feelings take over. Just happy to be here and that he's here, alive and they no longer have to worry about Thanos anymore.

While Loki, who is surprised by Darcy and start to go for it and only places a hand on Darcy's back an another on her shoulder. Feeling nothing but a sense of excitement and happiness that appears faster than any spell could and he finds himself enjoying it every minute, finding a sense of security and peace that he has never felt before. Rather than fight it off or reject the emotions that Loki has been keeping deep down inside, he is allowing them to continue and kissing Darcy back. Giving in to the feelings that he tries so hard to deny, only letting himself go through a new hurricane of emotions go through him. As they continue to have a moment displaying the feeling they had for one another.

From one look, the two are happy and at peace to the point nothing will tear them apart. That is until, Loki realize what they are doing and quickly move a couple steps back, ending the kiss. With Darcy only slowly realizing what she just did and she knew that she just kissed Loki and made the first move. Both of them, felt a sense of awkwardness and yet deep down some happiness, but right now Loki simply just ignoring it intensely and wanting nothing more to forget it. While Darcy is feeling as it felt right and almost magical in a way. With a little panic, that she didn't just make things awkward between the two of them for a while or worst their friendship.

"So..." said Darcy rather uncomfortably. "About that..."

"Let's talk about this later and try not to think about it." Said Loki almost immediately. "This might be my last night on Earth, are we really going to spend it talking about an uncomfortable subject?"

"Yeah, of course, we really should hang out." Said Darcy. "Sorry, I wasn't around that much today. So... what do you want to do?"

"For starters, I would like to grab something to eat." Said Loki. "I don't know about you but I am famished and would like to join the others in the dining room for a meal. I am so famished and want to eat something, anything."

"Alright, that's cool and is that it?" Asked Darcy nervously, hoping that she didn't turn Loki off.

"Yes, to finish watching the film from earlier and start watching the rest of the series." Said Loki. "I want to see what happens before Thor returns and not be feeling all of the suspense without being tempted to look for spoilers."

"Yeah, Uh Loki about all that..." said Darcy rather awkwardly.

"Look, let's just change the subject before this becomes even more awkward." Said Loki. "Come on, let's join the others..."

Darcy gives a sigh, as she follows him and remembering the brief moment. She doesn't even know what to think of it or if this will factor into Loki's choice. But all she knows is that she felt great and at the same time not great, she just kissed Loki and he kissed her back. Darcy really hopes that this isn't going to ruin their friendship and that they can look past it. Since she doesn't want things to be awkward and maybe she should talk to him later about this. Before it gets to the point that they fall apart and they stop being friends, maybe just hanging out and pretending it didn't happen won't hurt and then she can find a good moment for them to talk. She really wishes that Loki will still be cool with her after this...

---

Meanwhile inside the tower

Wanda is on her way to Vision's room, wanting to nothing more but to see him. To say goodbye and try to let go of a close friend and one of her best friends. That she can try to move on from all of this. Though it is going to be harder to do, since she has no one and no one understands. The moment she ask them to allow her to do something that would give them not only their friend, but her brother back. They would allow Thor to do everything to save his brother, but when she asked to do the same, they all turned their backs on her. Even Loki, who she trusted and helped, who she believes that he should know better than anyone what is it like to lose someone close.

She doesn't need their approval, she will find a way to get her brother out of the stone and save him. Even if it means, she would have to spend the rest of her life, she will find a way to get him out. All she needs to do is study the stones and see if she can activate them by using her powers. The anger inside her continues to burn, as the determination is continuing to to power through her mind. It does not look like there is anything that is going to stop her or going to make her stop to think about everything.

Well except that there is only one thing that allows her to stop to feel any real emotion. When she enters the room, Wanda sees Vision's body laying right there, lifeless and gone from the world. She heads closer, as she is starting to feel the guilt of not being able to protect him from Thanos. Why did she think of letting him on the Quinjet was a good idea? Why didn't she tell anyone or just agree with the plan to have him stay in the tower? Why couldn't Loki find a way to save him? Why didn't he save him?

It's not like Wanda is blaming Loki for what happened, but he was there and then knew, he could have done more. Besides it was mostly her fault for thinking that Vision would be safe with them on the Quinjet in the first place. She didn't think he would find a way out and would later try to help. If only she can turn back time to make sure that they could have avoided all of this, then maybe Vision would still be alive and they wouldn't even be in this situation.

She finally drop to her knees and finally breaks down, as the past week's events finally catches up to her and she faces the truth that she has los everything in a matter of days. First it was Vision, then her brother and now she's going to lose her home. She can't stay for another minute or even know if she can. Since all of her 'friends' and her teammates won't even let her do this or even do the favor that she desperately is asking them for. Wanda thought that as her friends, they would all help her no matter what, not leave her in dark.

As Wanda is still grieving, her hands start to glow a bright red and the next thing she knows is that suddenly her powers seem to have taken over her and surrounds the room, aiming it's energy on Vision. The other traces of her powers are now carrying the objects of the room and letting them float around. Wanda feels the strength of her powers increase and she doesn't even know if she can even use her abilities to do what she want at the moment or even put a stop to it. As her blast continues to pull her closer to Vision and even begins to reconstruct his forehead to the point that no one can see the damage and the hole that Thanos caused is nothing more than a bright light green light. The color of his body begins to change to reflect the change and the power that is now affecting him, as Wanda continues to let out blasts of her power until...

A final blast throws her to the other side of the room and a flash of light appears out of nowhere. Once the blast is gone, Wanda slowly starts to get up and sees what is getting up right in front of her. Not believing what she is now seeing or if she should do anything as she stare in shock.

"No... it's impossible..." said Wanda before stopping herself and smiling at the sight right in front of her, with a feeling of pride and happiness on what her powers did. Having the hope that nothing will ever take anything away from her again...

---

Here it is, the final chapter before we reach the finale. I can't believe that we are finally here and that we are one chapter away from the finale. That we're going to be close to the ending and we are all finally going to see how this story will finally end.

Ok there are a couple of things I need to clarify in this chapter and get the record straight on some details. For starters when it comes to the whole Wanda plot point, it's kinda where I thought she would be feeling if she lost the two people she cares about the most and if she thinks everyone's against her. Plus with whatever is going on with her powers and what she just did, there is also the fact that she just did the impossible and will try to keep it with her even if it means pushing everyone away and if there is ever is a Redemption sequel, we will see more of this potential story arc.

Plus there is also Odin's response, I wanted to have him respond as he might have been in the movies, since he hasn't gone through the development he had in Ragnarok and still hasn't seen a Loki who fully redeemed. So he would probably put the needs of Asgard first and try to see for himself if Loki really has change and make sure that he doesn't let Loki out of his sight and then keep him around for who knows how long. So I think if Thor was ever placed in a situation like this, then he would make the choice where he knows it would keep Loki free and keep both his father and brother from more pan. Even if it means their father can't be a part of their new lives...

I also want the chapter to be a chance for Loki to start bonding with the rest of the Avengers and be the start for them to fully accept one another. For Loki to see them all as more than his former adversaries and start to be alright with them knowing. While for the Avengers to see who Loki truly is, how much he has changed and to accept that Mysto is Loki. Maybe in the one-shots, we'll see them bonding more and we can get more context on why would the Avengers be so cool with Loki being Mysto and their relationship with him before the reveal.

Ok as for the big Loki and Darcy moment, I know it came out of nowhere, but at the same time I think Darcy would make the first move. For any Loki/Darcy shippers out there, don't get too excited, we still have a chapter left for this story to see how they are going to react with the aftermath that they are going to face. Especially with how awkward things are going to be, but despite that the power of Loki and Darcy's friendship is powerful and can prevail through any challenges that may try to stand in their way.

Plus it's kinda coincidental that this happens, just as the latest rewrite came out and it's when we get to see Darcy and Loki's friendship first gets acknowledge and we made it to this point of their bond.

As for the next rewrite, I think it might come out two to three weeks earliest, since the next chapter will be an expansion of the original and we will see new scenes and for us to see more of the events of the eighteenth chapter. Since let's be honest, it's the chapter we first meet Thanos and I want to make sure that it is the best that I can possibly get it to be. To make it even more intense than the original chapter, along leave us some room to give us some growth and development for the story and expand it if I may need to.

The fifty fourth chapter's planning stages is almost complete and I am going to start writing it really soon. I don't know when it will come out (probably late September-October earliest, but I do know that it will wrap up the story arcs that are present in the story, well at least the most prominent ones. Along with it being a celebration of the story and for all of us to see the story wrap up and the characters' journey.

But one thing is for sure that the next ten rewrites will come out before the final chapter does, so that way they will all be up and live up to the standards of the other chapters for you guys to reread them and for future readers. While you guys wait, there is still the rewrites that have come out for you guys to read in the meantime. The rewrites will allow us to see a expansion of the story and to see more development and scenes with in the story and growth as a whole. The first seventeen chapters and prologue rewrites are out now, if you guys want to check them out and the next round is coming out soon.

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?)

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 next two chapters and the rewrites are my top priority at the moment. :)

If you guys 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 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 will Thor manage to pull off in trying to keep Loki's secret safe? Will Loki chose to stay on Earth? What is going to be the aftermath of the big moment between Loki and Darcy? Will they resolve it or will they feel too awkward about it that they would rather avoid it altogether? What did Wanda do with her powers that caused her to have that reaction? What path is she going to go on now that she feels as though the Avengers and Loki has abandoned her? Will Loki's magic return or has he lost it for good? What will he rename the sword to? Are things going to work out in the end or will there be more trouble waiting for them? Will Loki be free from his past or will it stand in the way of a possible happy ending?

Find out in the final chapter of Redemption, wow, I can't believe that I just said that and how more real this is becoming by the minute. See ya in the next update. :)