In Another Life • A Loki/Fixing Marvel FanFic

Chapter 14 : Ultrons

The next morning, I woke up with a dull, throbbing headache. The events of the previous night were still swirling in my mind, adding to the discomfort. I quietly dressed, my movements slow and deliberate as I tried to shake off the lingering effects of the mead. I didn't want Loki to catch me sneaking away while he was busy making breakfast in the kitchen. The last thing I needed was a concerned god asking too many questions.

With a deep breath, I summoned the sling ring and opened a portal. Stepping through, I was instantly greeted by the familiar, calming aura of Kamar-Taj.

"Ancient One?!" I called out, the echo of my voice lingering in the quiet space.

She appeared as if from nowhere, her presence as serene as ever. "Yes, Miranda?" Her voice held that comforting tone that always made me feel both safe and slightly on edge.

I hesitated for a moment, my thoughts pressing down on me. "Say... what would happen if I started experiencing a mental connection to my body in my real world?"

The Ancient One's expression remained neutral, though I could see the gears turning in her mind. "It could mean one of two things: either your original body is waking up, preparing to transfer your minds back to their rightful places, or your minds are slowly starting to revert to their original state."

Her words hit me like a ton of bricks, though I tried to maintain my composure. "Great... Do you have any idea how long until that happens?"

She shook her head gently. "No, I can see what will happen, but not when. Inevitably, your minds will return to their rightful bodies."

"That's just... fantastic," I muttered, feeling a sinking sensation in my chest. I didn't want to leave—not now, not when I'd grown so attached to this life, this world, and to Loki. But deep down, I knew it was inevitable. "I guess I should feel bad for taking over Meredith's body for so long anyway," I added with a forced laugh, trying to lighten the mood.

The Ancient One's gaze softened, and she stepped closer. "You need to tell them."

Her words struck the guilt I'd been carrying. I nodded slowly. "I will. But they're in the middle of a major event right now, so... after. I can't distract them from the Ultron timeline." She seemed to understand, though I could tell she didn't fully agree. "Just in case," I continued, stepping forward to hug her. "You're an amazing woman, and Stephen couldn't have asked for a better mentor."

The Ancient One returned the hug, a rare gesture from someone usually so reserved. "I will miss you, Miranda. You are indeed a unique soul. You never know—we may meet again." I pulled back to look at her, a small smile on my lips. "I didn't say we wouldn't. Just... it could happen. I'm trying to be optimistic, like you." She raised a brow, and I couldn't help but laugh.

"Thank you for all your help—with the books and with everything else," I said, handing her the sling ring.

"I'm sure you can return it before you leave," she replied, but I shook my head.

"I had no control or warning during my episode last night. I'd hate for this to fall into the wrong hands," I explained, placing the ring in her palm.

"If you ever need it, I will give it to Wong. He'll return it to you," she promised, a gentle smile on her lips.

"Thank you for everything," I said, my voice laced with gratitude and sadness.

The Ancient One nodded, and with a simple gesture, she created a portal back to my room.

"Sleeping Beauty is finally awake," Tony's sarcastic voice greeted me as I stepped out of the portal. He was flipping through files, his tone light but his focus unwavering.