Collision Course {Marvel} ||1||

13. Performance Issues

Truthfully, heights didn't bother me. Sometimes, depending on the place, I found them to be extremely captivating, mainly because of their views.

Though New York was hardly Asgard, it was a sight to behold. Its buildings looked to reach beyond the clouds; some looked as though they could almost touch the white, fluffy wisps. The sunlight that reflected off the windows gave it an unearthly feel.

Down below looked so cluttered, and sometimes orderly in some places. Humans meandered about, whether catching a cab or walking along the sidewalks. They were completely unaware of what was about to happen. New York would be just the start. Once this was dominated, we would spread across the globe. Or maybe we would start with America and work our way around the world afterwards. I wasn't sure how Loki wanted to handle it; I couldn't get into his head. My mind ability went as far as communication.

Dr. Erik Selvig was already atop the very highest point of Stark Tower, powering up the device that would open the portal, the very thing that would start the war against the humans. While the scientist did what he did best, I kept on Loki's flank.

A thought occurred to me: what happened to Agent Barton? Surely if Loki had him under control still, he would have joined us by now. Did S.H.I.E.L.D. recover him in his normal state? Was it even possible for a human to break hold from Loki's control? It didn't look like Loki missed Agent Barton very much, probably because he upgraded to me as an asset.

"Bringing you to my side was perhaps the best move," Loki said, grabbing my attention. "It makes it all the sweeter since you are wearing whatever S.H.I.E.L.D. gave you. I will admit I do miss Asgardian attire on you."

"I've weaned myself off of the idea. I could readjust if I ever went back." I sniffed. "So, we're just waiting on Dr. Selvig for the portal to open?"

"Yes."

The faint roar of engines caught my attention. My eyes searched the sky only to notice Stark was heading our way. I called the fire to my hands, ready to catapult myself off his tower and greet him.

"Easy, my dear, don't get hasty." Loki put a hand out to stop me.

I extinguished the flames but didn't take my eyes off of Stark, who was donning his Iron Man suit. The red and gold trademark colors contrasted against the clear sky. I watched in curiosity as he completely ignored Loki and me, heading towards the top of his tower. "Can I go now?" I shifted uneasily.

"You are that eager to fight?" Loki chuckled. "He cannot do anything, Kiara. Dr. Selvig has made sure of that."

"If you say so."

Loki proved me right, as did Stark. He threw a blast of power towards the portal—which I couldn't see—only to have his own attack thrown back at him. I nearly laughed out loud at his foolish attempt. When it comes to defeating villains, it is always a battle. In all the books that I read and all the movies that I had watched here on Earth, the heroes always triumphed. However, this story wasn't going to have the same result.

The villains were going to take this victory and change everything.

Stark looked down to notice Loki and I. We both watched him as he landed close to us, just within striking distance if I leaped. As Stark headed inside, spinning rims surrounded him, removing pieces of the suit. Even though I wasn't on his side, I had to admit, that was pretty impressive. Tony Stark was very inventive; a mind like his couldn't come around in the world very often.

"He wants to negotiate?" I scoffed.

"We better not be rude and leave him there all alone. Stay close, and whatever he tries to persuade you with, do not listen."