At that thought, Wanda quickly lowered her head and pretended to drink her tea, hiding the smile she could barely contain.
The Ancient One set down her cup. She glanced at Wanda, who was lost in her thoughts, amusement flickering in her eyes, then turned to Homelander.
"I sensed the power of an Asgardian god. But its source was a human. That's rare, especially here on Earth."
"I can look into the future, of course, but I rarely use that ability, Mr. Starr."
"Why?" Wanda couldn't help interrupting. "If you can do that... I mean, if you can see the future, couldn't you prevent a lot of disasters?"
"Disasters?" The Ancient One smiled, though there was resignation in it. "Child, the future isn't a straight highway. It's a tree with countless branches."
"Every glimpse, every change made because of a prediction, can create a new branch—a new timeline. Who can say whether that timeline might bring new disasters?"
"Unless you live like an ascetic, following a predetermined script at every step to preserve its supposed 'outcome.' But that's exhausting, and... rather dull."
"And right now..." The Ancient One sighed. "...I already have enough to worry about."
"So I prefer to live in the present."
"Wise choice." Homelander nodded. "Since you haven't read the script, I'll get straight to it."
Homelander slipped an arm around Wanda as though showing off something he was proud of.
"I brought you a student."
"Wanda Maximoff. Exceptionally gifted, with limitless potential. I think your classes would suit her."
"I'd like her to study here and learn some proper magic."
Wanda immediately sat up straight and looked at the Ancient One nervously.
The Ancient One's gaze shifted slowly to Wanda.
"I'm sorry."
Her refusal was immediate and firm.
"Why?" Wanda asked, her voice rising before she