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Chapter 630 - Chapter 630: Gathering Allies

" What you relinquish now will become the foundation of your future strength..."

The Ancient One's enigmatic words echoed in Lockhart's mind as he paused momentarily before continuing his departure from the tea room. Though spoken with the calm assurance characteristic of the Supreme Sorcerer, her advice carried an unmistakable weight—a significance that extended beyond their immediate context.

Lockhart's thoughts raced as he walked. What precisely did she mean? How could his current sacrifices possibly strengthen him in the future?

Was she suggesting that by severing ties with Asgard, he would ultimately secure greater support from Kamar-Taj? Or did her cryptic message hint at something far more profound—a transformation that even he could not yet envision?

Various interpretations materialized and dissolved in rapid succession as he strode through Kamar-Taj's hallowed corridors. A flicker of confusion passed across his typically confident features.

Riddlers and their half-spoken truths, he thought with a mixture of frustration and grudging respect. Why must masters always speak in riddles when clarity would serve just as well?

Despite his inability to decipher the Ancient One's true meaning, Lockhart fell back on a principle that had served him well throughout his extraordinary life: when understanding proves elusive, action becomes imperative. Time would eventually reveal the answers he sought.

With a decisive gesture, Lockhart extended his hand and summoned his magical energies.

Buzz!

A portal materialized before him—not the golden sparks typical of sling rings, but a distinctive red-flamed aperture characteristic of his personal magical signature. Through this mystical doorway, he could see the interior of the New York Sanctum, where several figures awaited his arrival.

Even before stepping through, Lockhart could hear the animated discussions taking place on the other side. The tensions and uncertainty were palpable in the raised voices and urgent tones.

Without hesitation, he crossed the threshold into the New York Sanctum.

The moment he materialized fully, Elder Byrne—a senior member of Kamar-Taj's law enforcement division—addressed him directly.

"Master Lockhart," the elder inquired, his lined face reflecting both respect and skepticism, "can you verify the authenticity of the information you've distributed?"

Though Byrne knew Lockhart was not prone to spreading misinformation, the gravity of recent developments demanded absolute certainty.

Around the room, various masters fixed their attention on Lockhart's face: Master Kaecilius, guardian of the New York Sanctum; Master Arnold, protector of the London Sanctum; Master Mordo, with his unyielding dedication to natural law; and several other influential mages with whom Lockhart had cultivated relationships over the years.

Lockhart had not been idle during Thor's audience with the Ancient One. Recognizing the need for swift action, he had already dispatched messages to these key figures within Kamar-Taj, summoning them to this emergency council at the New York Sanctum.

While the Ancient One had indeed delegated authority to him in this crisis, Lockhart understood the difference between nominal power and effective influence. To translate the Supreme Sorcerer's mandate into practical action required strategic alliances and the genuine support of Kamar-Taj's power structures.

Hence this preemptive gathering of mages with whom he shared positive relationships—a necessary step toward unifying their approach and securing their backing for the difficult path ahead.

"Elder Byrne, I can confirm the information is absolutely accurate," Lockhart replied with unwavering conviction. "I have already instructed the Vientiane World to revoke all preferential policies toward Asgard, including the return of their mystical currency stored in our realm."

As these words left his lips, Lockhart couldn't entirely suppress a wince of discomfort. The consequences of this decision had been financially devastating.

Since establishing relations with Asgard, the Vientiane World had enjoyed unprecedented prosperity. The Asgardians, eager to acquire Earth's mystical artifacts and knowledge, had exchanged vast quantities of their own treasures for Vientiane's magical currency—transactions that had required minimal effort on Lockhart's part while yielding substantial profits.

Now all of that wealth would be returned. The magical points—virtual currency though they might be—would be exchanged back for the Asgardian treasures at a one-to-one ratio.

The financial setback was enormous.

Lockhart had briefly contemplated simply retaining these funds—a temptation that had flickered through his mind like a shadow. After all, given the volatile temperament of the Asgardians, conflict might have erupted before any formal refund process could begin.

However, such an action would inflict irreparable damage to the Vientiane World's reputation among mystical communities. Even in conflict, certain principles of conduct must be maintained. Consequently, Lockhart had established refund protocols, ensuring that Asgardians could reclaim their treasures with minimal complications.

"Lockhart," Kaecilius spoke next, his intense gaze betraying keen interest beneath his composed exterior, "when precisely did the Ancient One issue this directive?"

The question seemed calculated to establish the legitimacy of Lockhart's mandate.

"Today, in her direct presence," Lockhart answered without hesitation. "She has charged me with leadership in this matter and authorized the mobilization of all Kamar-Taj resources toward a single objective."

His voice hardened as he continued. "We are to eliminate the Celestial embryo threatening our world. Earth's safety must be preserved at any cost."

Lockhart's expression grew cold, almost severe. "And should the Asgardians obstruct this mission, they are to be eliminated without hesitation or mercy."

As his declaration concluded, a profound silence descended upon the chamber. The implications hung heavily in the air, almost tangible in their gravity.

Another great war.

The thought passed unspoken through every mind present. The previous conflict—the dimensional invasion—had concluded less than a year ago. Many still bore both physical and psychological scars from that brutal campaign.

And now, a new threat emerged—one potentially even more formidable than the last. The evil dimensional entities behind the previous invasion had been formidable, but Asgard's might was legendary throughout the cosmos.

The realm was renowned for its warrior culture and combat prowess. There were virtually no weaklings among the Asgardian pantheon—least of all Odin Allfather, the God-King who had once conquered seven realms and established the most powerful empire in the known universe.

The challenge before them was monumental.

"My friends," Lockhart said, his tone softening slightly as he addressed the assembled mages, "your presence here speaks to the bonds we have forged. In this critical hour, I require your support."

His gaze swept the room, making brief but meaningful eye contact with each person present. "The Supreme Sorcerer's mandate must be fulfilled—regardless of the cost."

None appeared surprised by Lockhart's appeal. Most had already surmised his purpose in summoning them to the New York Sanctum, and those who hadn't quickly pieced together the situation from the ongoing discussions upon arrival.

"As the Ancient One has commanded, the New York Sanctum pledges its full resources," Kaecilius responded promptly, his voice resonant with conviction. "Lockhart, I will personally oversee the deployment of all available personnel in support of your operations."

"The London Sanctum stands with you as well," Arnold added without hesitation. "Should you require any specific individuals, you need only call upon them. Your familiarity with our temple and its defenses makes you uniquely qualified to coordinate our forces."

Though Arnold maintained a professional demeanor, the strain in his voice betrayed deeper concerns. If anyone present felt the weight of this situation as acutely as Lockhart, it was surely Arnold.

London had become the focal point of Asgardian activity on Earth. Arnold had been acutely aware of their presence, had known about the Celestial embryo, and had even arranged for Strange to strategically disseminate certain information.

Originally, Arnold had harbored hopes that Asgardians might become valuable allies in Kamar-Taj's ongoing struggle against extradimensional threats. Now, that optimistic vision lay shattered. Even the most obtuse observer could discern the causal connections—London stood at the epicenter of the coming conflict.

Without substantial protection, the historic city would inevitably become a battlefield.

Why must it always be London? The unspoken lament flickered behind Arnold's disciplined expression.

Lockhart acknowledged the pledges from both Sanctum guardians with a grateful nod before turning his attention to the remaining mages.

Master Mordo and other influential practitioners—those with extensive networks of contacts or significant standing within Kamar-Taj—offered their support with similar readiness, given their prior relationships with Lockhart.

"You can count on me, Lockhart," Mordo stated firmly. "Whatever resources you require, simply name them."

"I'll contact several associates who will bolster your efforts," another master volunteered. "After all, when the Ancient One issues a command, all must obey."

Similar pledges of allegiance continued, each one bringing a measure of satisfaction to Lockhart's expression. These were not merely promises of support but confirmation that his years of relationship-building throughout Kamar-Taj had borne fruit precisely when needed most.

Finally, Lockhart directed his attention toward Elder Byrne. Among all present, the Law Enforcement Chief represented the most significant potential ally—his authority and influence exceeded even Lockhart's considerable standing.

The Law Enforcement division wielded extraordinary power within the mystical community—functioning as a combination of judiciary and executive authority. They arrested wrongdoers, conducted investigations, passed judgment, and executed sentences, all according to ancient magical statutes largely independent of mundane legal systems.

Securing Byrne's support wasn't merely advantageous; it was essential.

As Lockhart's gaze settled on him, Byrne became acutely aware that everyone present now watched him with expectation. The elder lowered his head briefly, weighing his response with characteristic thoroughness.

He considered Lockhart's previous accomplishments, the legitimacy of the Ancient One's directive, and his own responsibilities as a Law Enforcement leader. The deliberation was visible in the deep furrows of his brow and the slight tension in his shoulders.

After what seemed an eternity, Byrne released an almost inaudible sigh. The path ahead will be treacherous indeed, he thought resignedly.

Then, raising his head, he spoke with solemn dignity.

"The Law Enforcement division has always existed to uphold the Ancient One's will and protect the natural order," he declared. "Lockhart, you may consider our full resources at your disposal. The Law Enforcers will stand behind you in this endeavor."

With this final, crucial pledge secured, Lockhart allowed himself a small measure of relief. The first step—perhaps the most critical—had been accomplished. Kamar-Taj would present a unified front against both the Celestial threat and any Asgardian interference.

Now came the infinitely more challenging task: devising a strategy to confront beings of godlike power while preventing catastrophic damage to the world they sought to protect.

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