Bab 145: Peggy
Odin was quick to react, noticing something was wrong. He picked up Thor's hammer and struck Blake, sending him flying.
"So terrifying?"
Blake got back on his feet, speaking with lingering fear.
"Even at my peak, I wouldn't dare to do that. You, on the other hand, directly went for the Ancient One. Trying it on an Earthling might be fine, but with us, forget it!" Odin reprimanded.
Blake understood this was Odin's way of showing concern, saving his life. He wasn't angry; instead, he slightly bowed to Odin in thanks.
The Ancient One chuckled, "Actually, just a nudge would have distracted you enough. You hadn't even started attacking!"
Blake: …
Getting hit by Odin for an excuse, Blake could only accept it with a sigh. He suspected Odin was avenging his adopted son, Loki, whom he had previously beaten badly.
Ignoring Odin, Blake turned to the Ancient One and asked, "If the other person was an ordinary Earthling, would it be okay?"
The Ancient One glanced at Blake. "With your power, handling a hundred ordinary people is no problem. Once you learn specific spells and control techniques, you could reverse an entire city, provided there aren't people like us in it."
Before Blake reached a certain level, the Ancient One still relied on her gem and power to deter Dormammu's invasions. She frequently observed uncertain futures, with her own plans on when to teach Blake magic.
But now Blake requested to borrow the Time Stone.
"Even though you're unaffected by the timeline, the Time Stone's influence is significant and must not be misused. Tell me, what exactly do you intend to do?"
The Ancient One asked curiously.
"I just… want to give someone a birthday gift," Blake said calmly.
...
London, England.
Royal Brompton Hospital.
Due to Peggy Carter's deteriorating health in recent years, the government allocated funds to create a separate area in the hospital, building a small building specifically for her recuperation.
Only royalty or this legendary agent and founder of S.H.I.E.L.D. would receive such treatment.
In Peggy Carter's heart, however, another identity mattered the most—being Captain America's girlfriend.
Back in World War II, Captain America, Peggy Carter, and Howard Stark formed a team that hinted at a mature superhero organization.
Captain America's Howling Commandos, along with Howard providing logistics and equipment, and Peggy offering intelligence, formed a perfect trio.
Together, they destroyed Hydra, led by Red Skull, hastening Germany's defeat and ending the war sooner.
This was a glorious period, and the memories Peggy Carter revisited most while lying in bed.
That date back then was not only a lingering regret for Captain America but for her as well.
"Steve, Steve Rogers! I've waited so long for you! You've finally come back; it's been far, far too long!"
Captain America, mustering his courage, came to see Peggy Carter, which brought her to tears.
"Yes, I'm back, Peggy. I could never leave my beautiful girl behind—I still owe her a dance," Captain America said, letting Peggy tightly hold his hand.
Overcome with emotion, Peggy Carter breathed heavily for a while. Captain America fetched her some water, and she gradually calmed down.
"It's enough to be alive. I'd heard you were back, but I didn't know when you'd come to see me. I was so afraid I wouldn't hold on until you arrived!"
Feeling tired, Peggy lay back slightly but still held Captain America's hand tightly.
"I'm sorry, Peggy. I should have come sooner. I just... I needed some time to adjust. This world is completely different from the one I knew!" Captain America said, feeling a bit guilty.
"It's okay, Steve. You're here now, and that's what matters. You saved this world. While you were gone, we messed up the world that could have been better. I heard you formed the Avengers with others. You're still the same; you're destined to be a hero, Steve!" Peggy Carter's gaze was filled with admiration, just as it was over sixty years ago.
Captain America smiled, slightly embarrassed. "When you first met me, I was just a malnourished little guy. It was you, Dr. Erskine, and Colonel Phillips – you all made me into a hero!"
"No, Steve. Being a hero isn't about muscle strength; it's about the heart. When I first met you, you were already a hero," Peggy Carter said, taking a trembling hand to pull a photo from under her pillow. It was a picture of Captain America before he received the super serum.
"After you left, I thought for a long time about when I fell in love with you. At first, I thought it was when you kissed that beautiful secretary. But when you disappeared, I realized it was this version of you I missed the most!" She placed the photo in Captain America's hand.
He looked at it, smiled, and said, "Too bad Dr. Erskine never invented a serum for small guys. Otherwise, I'd be able to come back to this version just to see you!"
"Hahaha! *Cough*… *cough*…" Peggy laughed at his joke but soon started coughing heavily.
Captain America quickly supported her, helping her lie more comfortably.
"I'm fine, Steve. Listen to me. Hearing you joke is wonderful; it means you have good friends around you now. Enjoy your life, Steve. Your life deserves to be more fulfilling."
...
Before coming, he had thought about it countless times but never had the courage to see her. Once there, Captain America realized he still felt lonely deep inside. Not just because of their relationship, but because it was rare to find someone from his era who could share stories of the past.
He didn't talk too long, fearing her health couldn't handle it, and promised to see her again next time.
Captain America left Peggy Carter's room with a hint of melancholy.
Almost as soon as he left the building, Blake emerged from the small grove in front. Glancing around to make sure Captain America had gone, Blake stepped into the building.
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