Watching Agatha All Along (Slow Updates)

Chapter 2: The Gathering and Waking

1982: Afterlife, Nepal

Jiǎyíng and her daughter Kora nestled closely on a weathered wooden bench, the surface worn smooth by years of use, as they cradled steaming cups of fragrant tea that released swirling tendrils of steam into the crisp air. The landscape of the Afterlife unfolded before them in a breathtaking panorama, drenched in the soft, ethereal glow of dawn, where delicate hues of violet and gold danced together in a surreal embrace.

They exchanged tender glances, their eyes shimmering with understanding, as their voices flowed gently like the brook nearby. They immersed themselves in a heartfelt conversation about their extraordinary lives as Inhumans. The transformation that had bestowed upon them remarkable powers was still a vivid memory, a seismic shift that had redefined their very beings and ignited new perspectives within them.

As they spoke, the leaves above rustled gently, whispering secrets only the trees could know, while echoes of laughter from other Inhumans in the distance wove a melodic tapestry in the air, enhancing the depth of their reflections on the intricate beauty and challenges of their newfound existence. Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted dramatically; a blinding flash of light erupted around them, engulfing them in brilliance, leaving their teacups eerily suspended in mid-air, frozen in time like a mesmerizing painting caught in an eternal moment.

1996: Stark Mansion, New York

In the lush expanse outside the backyard of the Stark Mansion, Peggy Carter stood with Maria Stark, Edwin, Ana Jarvis, Nick Fury, and Daniel Sousa. They were engrossed in an animated discussion, sharing amused glances and laughter as they recounted the exploits detailed in Tony's letter. The missive chronicled the wild antics and misadventures he and his friends had during their time at MIT, each story more outrageous than the last.

In a quieter corner, Howard Stark leaned against the brick wall, his expression a mixture of pride and exasperation as he listened intently to the tales being read aloud. The corners of his mouth twitched in a reluctant smile.

Without any forewarning, a dazzling burst of light engulfed them in an overwhelming radiance. The brilliance was so abrupt and intense that they scarcely had a moment to react, caught off guard by the sheer luminosity. The warmth of the light flowed over them like a gentle tide, wrapping them in its embrace and pulling them into an uncharted realm. As the cascading illumination enveloped the surroundings, the letter fluttered in the air, suspended in time, its edges dancing gracefully as if caught in a dream.

2006: Ten-Rings Headquarters, China

Ying Li and Xu Wenwu enjoyed a lively afternoon in their cozy kitchen, the warm aroma of freshly baked Chinese delicacies filling the air. Their two young children, Xu Shang-Chi and Xu Xiang, added to the delightful chaos, gleefully tossing flour at each other, giggles echoing throughout the room as white clouds of flour floated around them like soft snowflakes. Suddenly, a brilliant, shimmering light enveloped the couple, lifting them away instantly while the children stood frozen in time, their laughter suspended in the air, flour still hovering around them like a magical frost.

2014: Afterlife, Nepal

Gordan sat comfortably on a weathered bench, the sun's gentle warmth kissing his skin. He closed his eyes and immersed himself in the symphony of nature, the lively buzz of insects dancing in the air, a chorus of chirps from birds soaring above, and the soft rustle of leaves as the trees swayed gracefully in the breeze. Suddenly, without warning, Gordan felt a sharp tug, as if time had grabbed him. He was instantly pulled from his tranquil moment, leaving the vibrant world around him suspended in a magical stillness, every creature and leaf frozen in time.

On planet Ego

The Guardians of the Galaxy confront the immense threat posed by Ego, the Living Planet, but their confrontation takes a precarious turn when the Golden High Priestess Ayesha unleashes her fleet of Sovereign omnicrafts. These sleek, golden vessels swarm in a vengeful wave, determined to retaliate against the Guardians for their previous encounters.