A golden portal shimmered open in the quiet courtyard of Kurogai's residence. From its glow stepped two figures—one tall and calm, the other younger, eyes full of curiosity. Kurogai and Skye had returned from the Southern Hemisphere, arriving directly at their base.
"Master, you're back!"
Wanda was the first to sense their return. She rushed over to greet them, her expression full of excitement and warmth.
Kurogai gave a nod. "Wanda, go get your brother. I'm taking both of you somewhere important."
He spoke without delay. With preparations underway for his trip into space, Kurogai couldn't afford to take Wanda and Pietro with him. The journey would be too dangerous. He needed to ensure their safety before he left.
His destination for them: Kamar-Taj.
For Wanda, it was the ideal place. A sanctum of mystic arts, filled with knowledge and protective wards. There, she could grow under proper guidance, learning to control her innate magical potential.
As for Pietro, though his abilities hadn't yet awakened, any form of basic training would benefit him. While Kurogai had little to offer him directly at this stage, sending him alongside Wanda would keep them together—and safe.
Skye, on the other hand, was already different. Her power had awakened. Sending her back to the orphanage wasn't an option. Kurogai intended to bring her to the Ancient One as well. If anyone could help guide Skye's seismic powers, it was the Sorcerer Supreme.
There were other possibilities, of course. Professor Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters came to mind, especially with its reputation for nurturing powerful mutants. But after the… situation Kurogai had caused during his last visit, it was doubtful Charles Xavier would offer his help anytime soon.
That narrowed things down. Kamar-Taj wasn't just the safest choice—it was also the most reliable. Kurogai had spent years there, and he trusted the Ancient One implicitly. She was wise, impartial, and truly selfless. He knew she would treat them fairly.
And while she still lived, Kamar-Taj was one of the safest sanctuaries on Earth. With over a decade before her eventual passing, Kurogai had no hesitation.
"Yes, Master!" Wanda responded without question. Though surprised, she quickly went to inform Pietro and began preparing for the journey.
Kurogai, meanwhile, took Skye back to the orphanage for one final visit. He needed to inform Director Mary of Skye's departure in person. A short while later, he returned with Skye to their home, where Wanda and Pietro stood ready.
"Let's go," he said, forming a glowing portal. "We're headed to Kamar-Taj."
In an instant, the four of them vanished into the light.
---
They reappeared in the familiar halls of Kamar-Taj.
"Ku... Kurogai-sorcerer? You've returned?!"
Several monks nearby were startled, but their tone quickly shifted to one of respect. Kurogai's presence still carried weight here. Despite his absence, the legacy he left behind remained strong.
"Let the Ancient One know I'm here. I need to speak with her," Kurogai said calmly.
The monk didn't hesitate. He bowed and left at once.
While they waited, Skye and the Maximoff twins looked around with curiosity. This place, so rich in mystery and power, was completely new to them.
Soon, word returned.
Kurogai turned to the others. "Come. We're going to meet the one who protects this place."
They followed him down the stone corridors until they entered a vast chamber. At its center stood a bald woman robed in white—the Ancient One.
She regarded Kurogai with sharp eyes.
"You've grown stronger," she said, brow furrowing slightly. "And your aura... something's changed within you."
She was referring to the Phoenix Force—its presence not fully hidden.
Kurogai gave a respectful nod. "There have been… developments. I came to discuss a matter of some urgency."
The Ancient One's expression turned serious. "Speak."
"You're aware of the Goddess of Death, aren't you? Due to recent events, she's turned her attention toward Earth."
For the first time in years, the Ancient One visibly flinched.
"You provoked her?" she said, stunned. "Kurogai, do you understand what you've done?"
Her tone wasn't scolding, but filled with genuine concern. Death was one of the cosmic forces. To attract her notice was to invite doom.
"I didn't intend to," Kurogai replied. "But what's done is done. That's why I've come to make a request."
He paused, then gestured to Skye, Wanda, and Pietro.
"I'm leaving Earth for a while. I need to draw her attention away. But these three—my people—can't come with me. I need to leave them somewhere safe."
The Ancient One exhaled, already understanding. "And you want me to take them in."
Kurogai smiled slightly. "Exactly. I trust you."
She sighed but nodded. "You're lucky I'm soft-hearted... and that you're trying to protect Earth, even if in your own chaotic way."
"Deal," he said.
The Ancient One turned to the trio. "These three will stay in Kamar-Taj. They'll be safe here until you return."
She looked back at Kurogai, her gaze steady.
"Be careful. What you face out there isn't something that can be undone."
"I know," Kurogai said, his tone calm, but resolute. "That's why I have to go."
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Thanks for the Powerstones....send more <(￣︶￣)>