Testing and Gathering Intelligence

After returning home, Ian went straight to the headquarters of the Time Force. His journey through the Multiverse had not been solely to save that Dragon; he had also wanted to test a few things.

One consequence of Doctor Strange's Dreamwalking was triggering an Incursion, which was similar to the Fusion Ian was preparing to deal with.

An Incursion was random and chaotic, and could result in one or two universes being destroyed in the process. By comparison, Fusion meant that the universes were expected to merge, or for one of them to remain.

Any form of Multiversal travel could trigger an Incursion, while using Dreamwalking—a technique originating from the Darkhold—increased the odds. Ian needed to know what would happen after his journey.

"How are things going?"

"Sir, we're still receiving data," Ra replied. Ian nodded.

He used this time to send Albion to the magic tower and prepare the energy he needed to return to his peak.

"Sir, we have the results."

"Judging by your tone, I'm guessing it's bad news."

"Yes. Our Earth has begun merging with Earth-125."

"Looks like I'll have to limit my travels through the Multiverse for now," Ian remarked.

"Sir, how would you like us to prepare?"

"What would happen if we destroyed that universe before it collided with ours?" "There's currently no data that can answer that question."

"I know." Ian nodded, then sat cross-legged in midair and gazed into the future through the Eye of Agamotto. He frowned because he could see nothing after the destruction.

He stopped the pointless effort and walked toward a concealed room. He cast a communication spell, creating three screens before him that displayed The Ancient One, Frigga, and Odin.

"Did something happen?" The Ancient One asked.

"Is the first World Fusion about to happen?"

"So soon?