When Odin's words faded in Peter Parker's living room, The Ancient One's gaze remained fixed on the spinning Time Stone.
She was silent for a moment, then brushed the gem's surface with a fingertip, as if sensing the currents of energy flowing between Helheim and Asgard.
"You freed Hela, then expected your two sons to settle the ancient grudge between you."
The Ancient One's voice carried through the quiet room, measured and even.
"You didn't tell Thor your whole plan. You didn't tell Loki, either. You're waiting for them to work out what to do on their own."
Odin's grip on Gungnir did not shift. He stood by the window, his single eye reflecting the churning gold and darkness above New York. His voice was steady, carrying the certainty of long years.
"Thor will find his own path. What he's been through over the years has taught him to solve problems without relying on my power. Loki... he's changing too, though he won't admit it."
The Ancient One turned her head slightly to look at him, but asked no more.
Just as she had settled on Strange, Odin had perhaps made his choice because he had no better option. But once the choice was made, there could be no regrets.
If someone told her after Strange succeeded her as Sorcerer Supreme that another person on Earth had a greater gift for magic, there would be nothing she could do about it.
Odin was not the only one who sensed the upheaval in Helheim, even if he had caused it.
The Shadow Elder Gods, who controlled the World Tree's authority, were the first to notice after him.
The moment Hela emerged from her seal in Helheim, the hushed discussion deep in the World Tree's shadows broke off.
The vast beings exchanging