Owner Pose
Jane Foster Busy little astrophysicists are busy when not tracking the grand alignment of the planets scheduled to happen in two weeks or worrying about the next seminar hosted for everyone online and in person at the Hayden Planetarium. When matters align to bring her by the Asgardian Embassy en route to Greenwich Village, she almost wistfully casts a look after a food truck. Just because she doesn't need it doesn't preclude her from wanting a shaved ice or some fascinating Latino-Korean taco fusion. Two cultures that know their spices, after all.

"That reminds me. Have you tried them?" she points out the truck in question to the Thunderer. If he hasn't sampled it, likely he knows someone who has. "Any good?"

Traffic probably stops with the bluff god and the brunette in jeans at every intersection because something New Yorkers don't ever quite get over are the heavyweights. Superman getting a coffee somewhere, Cap whistling the national anthem, Thor doing Thor things. It's an occupational hazard, but useful for getting places in a timely fashion. As if they'd take the bus. Fly? Probably not wise to go by hammer.

"Lucky for us, the doctor should be in. I had another errand to run that way," she says after rounding the corner for Bleecker Street and the mansion standing among much less impressive digs. A sandwich place, a cleaner, the usual mishmash of unique boutiques all peel back for that grandiose Victorian pile built on Revolutionary bones. "Looking forward to meeting him? He's been an excellent host in the past."

Up to Thor if he wants to knock; if not, she does, and waits. That door likes to open by itself. Maybe this time it explodes into a red carpet. Who knows? A smile turns her lips. "Now's a good a time as any to have the interdimensional subway system active. We're just that popular."
Thor     With furrowed brow and expression curious, Thor answers the good Lady Jane as he turns his head toward the food truck so mentioned. "I. Do not know." Which is the truth of the matter, for their markings stand out not to him, nor does the smell engender fond memories. Perhaps it's simply that to him there are /so/ many food trucks in this adopted land of his.
    Today he advances his agenda in the same manner to which he dresses. That is to say casually. Midgardian garb, keyed to the locale primarily in the logo upon his white t-shirt that proclaims apparently he is the property of the Yankees Athletics Department. It fits with his blue jeans and brown work boots, and that grey hoodie. A small note of affectation is there, however, in the braid to his hair that hangs over his left temple, while the rest of his prodigious mane is drawn back into a pony tail.
    To complete the look all one needs is an umbrella tucked under the arm. Which he has.
    Yet despite his attempts at something of a low profile, though he spurns the disguise of sunglasses and baseball hat, he is recognized at points and is turned to share a smile. Kind words. The occasional selfie.
    "That is good, then." Thor nods to Jane once they're underway again, hands in his jean pockets and his stride easy and leisurely to match Jane's pace. "I believe... I have met /a/ Sorcerer Supreme, some years ago. Though she was very elusive in manner. But I always look forward to meeting any you would claim as friend, Jane Foster."
    That said once they reach their destination. Answering her statement about Midgard's popularity he nods as he climbs the steps to attempt to knock. "Indeed, and likely growing moreso."
Stephen Strange No explosion nor carpets automagically appearing to escort the pair in. However, as Jane rightfully suspects, their approach has not gone unnoticed. The attempt to knock fails as the door swings open just before Asgardian knuckles rap upon the wood. And, simultaneously with the door opening, a voice speaks that Jane would know immediately to belong to the same person she spoke to less than 24 hours prior. Plain as day, yet no actual personage in sight. "Hello again, Doctor Foster. Please do forgive the lack of fanfare. I was just finishing up on some matters that required my physical presence. Please, feel free for you and your guest to enter." As the voice silences, the door opens more fully, allowing the pair easy access inside.

And, inside, is much the same as when the astrophysicist seen the previous night. Still ridiculously Victorian and impeccably maintained. However, there is a minor addition. A small sitting area, just off to the left, with a trio of comfortable chairs and a small coffee table. A table with two items.

A shaved ice for apparently Jane...and a tankard of ale for Thor. It seems that Stephen might have been expecting the two. Or...most likely, it's just a bit of magic on Stephen's part or the Sanctum itself.

It is only once the door closes that the master of the house makes an appearance. Casually, of course, as if he was just around the corner, though there was really no corner to emerge from. "I took some liberties. Please, feel free to sit." A pause...then a turn to regard the casualness of Thor. "hmm. Cute. Does that actually work for you, in public settings? Because I would think not, Thor Odinson. Still, love the shirt."

Oh, yeah. No fooling Stephen in his own home, it seems.
Jane Foster The boon for bringing pain au chocolat yesterday brings a smile out of Jane. For all that matters might be of varying worry levels, the small touches are worth celebrating when they appear. "Thank you," she offers upon entry. The type to scuff her feet on a mat, too, or outright remove her shoes when called for. It doesn't seem too necessary for her in the Sanctum as yet. Not that she is especially dusty or dirty, but one doesn't like to track the outside into someone's immaculately maintained, wood-paneled jewelbox.

Her loose poise and rather self-possessed bearing doesn't allude to being overwhelmed by the company or the confines. A nod to the Master of the Mystic Arts when he appears acknowledges him, and likewise allows her a moment to get her bearings to that table. "The sky isn't falling, and neither are there rogue trains on the subway intending to invade Connecticut." A joke? Probably.

Her attire is fairly straightforward, sleeveless top and fitted capris a sign of summer, nothing untoward about the minimal jewelry. Nothing at all. Nope. See that umbrella, it's /far/ more interesting than - - look, a book!

She casts a wry look at Thor and smiles widely at him. "Stephen Strange, Sorcerer Supreme. Thor Odinson, Crown Prince of Asgard. If you have not been formally introduced, allow me to correct that. We've come to discuss an idea. Quite a progressive one, which Thor has put considerable thought into. I quite think it's got promise, too."

Just in case the doctor suspected Thor of any other notion.
Thor     As the door swings open, Thor's reaction is to smile and look at Jane. He points at the opening entryway and says. "Ah." Then he adds, "Effective."
    He then steps to the side so that Jane may precede him, his chest turning just so as he sets one foot partially inside and peers around. Eyebrows rise in that expression of curiousity though upon seeing the beauty of the decor he nods a few times to himself in appreciation. Once she's within he follows along hands out of his pockets though the umbrella is nestled comfortable under his left arm.
    When finally those blue eyes fall upon the tankard he shoots a smile sidelong toward Jane and offers, "That is a thoughtful offering." He starts forward only for the master of the house to make his appearance. Which brightens Thor's features. Then Jane makes the needed introductions.
    "Good day, Doctor Strange. A pleasure." A hand is offered in greeting and if accepted there is a shake that is executed in a formal three short sharp shakes, unaggressive, but firm.
    He moves to step around one of those chairs and awaits Jane's taking of a seat before he does the like should she do so. As for Strange's words about his garb he meets the magician's eyes with first no look of understanding. Then realization as his lips part with a smile.
    "Yes, as to that. Well." He touches a hand to his chest, then uncurls it toward Doctor Strange. "Tis comfortable at the least." The umbrella is set down beside the chair and to show he will accept the role of guest he leans forward to take up the tankard and takes a drink.
    Though when Jane speaks to his idea he lifts a hand to wave off any compliment. "It is little. Barely a thought, one of which I have spoken to her about and in turn to Diana of Themyscira. And as I have said to them, if it is a thought that has occurred to me... then likely there are many many others to whom it has already come to and been dealt with."
Stephen Strange The offered hand is taked and the subsequent requirement of shakes is given....three, being the number before four but after two. For everyone knows that five is right out.

"An idea, you say?" Upon release of his hand, Stephen steps around to his own chair, waiting for the two guests to settle before he in turn does. "Dangerous concepts, ideas. Always a threat to the established order and encumbered with change." A joke, perhaps? But, spoken clearly without any fluctuation. Perhaps he is serious.

Or not.

"And this idea involves me, no less." No, not a question, but a statement. Not hard to determine that, considering the presence of the Thunderer. "Or, at least a service I can provide. What is this inkling that you speak of? I would say that no idea is barely a thought if it causes action to be taken. And, since you are here..." With that, hands lift to indicate both Jane and Thor..."...then it is safe to say that you do not give this idea enough credit. So...what can I do for you?"
Jane Foster Jane indeed will sit, though not until Thor and Stephen have properly met one another and not tried to bring down the house in a dazzling display of... well, likely humour. Commiseration about the excellence of the colour blue or why urban centres just don't allow men to play with lightning like they used to. Her smile softens a tinge when the joke about the Yankees lands, nodding slightly at the blond Asgardian to cover up the blossoming, mutual amusement in her eyes. Not that she wouldn't laugh aloud, given just cause.

Far be it from her to sink too far into the chair. She sits readily, feet tucked under her, the shaved ice at her elbow. The vessel is moved inward, a spoon sought to chip away at the side and a spoonful taken. "Then I credit you and Diana both with a good idea. It may seem nothing, but it's still worthwhile to discuss."

Some people wield spoons like tiny machetes or scimitars; she's not one of them, carefully arranging a path that slaloms around the frosty mound. "Diana of Themyscira has championed building a spaceport in terrestrial orbit to act as a gateway for interstellar travellers; in essence, a place that spacefarers could gather and then come to earth. Naturally it gives the benefit that customs at the airport habitually would. What of a similar prospect for interdimensional travellers, such as there are quite a few drawn to Earth of late? We could similarly promote arriving at a semi-official, sanctioned location rather than, say, manifesting in the middle of someone's birthday party. Their office. An international meeting where it could cause significant concerns. Or, perhaps, the middle of the ocean where our perfectly friendly, non-hostile traveller subsequently finds themselves unable to swim."

She glances at Thor again for confirmation, eyebrows arching a shade. "Would that be an accurate introduction? I hope I've got the gist of it without misrepresenting the point."
Thor     "Well," Thor again glances at Jane, then back towards Strange. "The matter is to the travelers, those who pass from one realm to the next. And if one knows of such things it would be the Sorcerer Supreme. Thus, I am come."
    Then when Jane takes her ease as well he looks to her and nods, drinking from his tankard as she speaks as toward the thoughts he had been having. He follows along, nodding at points, eyebrows lifting when she elaborates as to possible occurences, the latter of which makes him smile. "That is indeed, the gist of it, Lady Jane."
    Settling in the chair more comfortably, a furrow beetles Thor's brow as he considers the tale that must be conjured to offer insight to the man known as Stephen Strange. He takes a deep breath and embarks on the ask. "Jane has mentioned what perhaps I seek as an end goal. What brought it to the fore? Three incidences. Three times when travelers from one realm have come forth to this one. The first, was Ulik. King of the Trolls. He sought my blood but it was Jane Foster who managed to mitigate that matter peaceably."
    He takes another drink from the tankard then sets it to the side. "The second, was a warband who sought Ulik's blood. They came forth and gave battle. We lost one of our own, and we were moved to action." Which at that point he again looks to Jane as if to make sure he had the truth of it.
    "This third last, was another traveler from Muspelheim. They sought merely to visit their niece who apparently lives here on Midgard. But it came close to blows there for a time."
    He touches a hand to his chest, then uncurls toward Strange. "Three crossings, one only of which ended in violence. Though easily all of them could have ended so. My realization of my hand almost being raised against one who... perhaps while rude was innocent? It put my thoughts toward what could be done."
    He takes a deep breath, "I spoke to Diana, about her efforts to build a Starport to help make it safer for those from other worlds to visit Midgard. I was given to wonder what if there was something we could do similarly for those from other realms. Other planes? Is that..."
    He shakes his head with a puzzled look on his face as he murmurs, "Is that, what Jane speaks of, even a feasible thing? For I doubt it is easy to... circumvent such arrivals. And even so if they are hostile wherever they end is dangerous for those who are there save in say the ocean. Perhaps there are ways we may be able to detect them beforehand to have a more... formal meeting? Something along those lines."
    At that he smiles a little and shakes his head, "I know I come at this as one with little gift for the magicks. Yet my desire is to perhaps make these crossings less likely to end in blood."
Stephen Strange As both doctor and prince present their viewpoints, the Sorcerer Supreme, protector of the realm, ponders. "A designated location for interdimensional travelers to go to. A sort of dimensional port of call. That is the ultimate goal? At least, if possible, an early detection system of dimensional breaches. Do I have the general concept?"

A momentary pause, then Strange actually considers the notion. "As far as the detection method. Much like physical border woes, monitoring all the possible ways for a dimensional breach is, at least as of yet, logistically impossible. There is just too many various ways of possible intrusions or visitations to be completely effective. We do have a way of detection now, but it is regrettably very much a reactive, rather than proactive, exercise." No mention as to what exactly that detection system is...but one could assume that it is the Sorcerer Supreme himself that attempts to monitor what he can.

"Having a centralized location would be possible, though it would need to be safeguarded to prevent forcible entry. There are many things in the various realms that would delight in breaching what securities this corner of creation has established and an anchored point of entry would be rather enticing. The wards and protections will have to be strong and maintained." As Stephen speaks, the gears are churning. The idea has taken root and now is germinating. "However...even that is possible."
Jane Foster Jane muses, her voice light over the bowl of shaved ice. "The beacons of Amon-Din are lit." If only she could produce the stellar score, how merry that might be. In the meantime, she tries not to keep mental time using her spoon, sitting back to avoid the outright temptation.

"A barrier may not be feasible, either for the resources it takes or the trouble with upkeep. I can't see everyone agreeing to sealing Earth off." Her mouth softens, the smile fading out some. "Sometimes the presence of a boundary invites breaching it. We do not wish to encourage trials of strength or resolve, do we?"

The spoon goes back to the bowl with a soft click. "A reactive system still has value." Nodding to Stephen, she gestures back to the front door. "A marked entryway tends to be how /most/ of us enter buildings or places. We're proposing the door. Passive systems have their place. Knowing there are cameras, sign posts, or equivalents could be enough of a guide to bring something. Realistically stopping all breaches for any length of time through a single method has the drawbacks of the Maginot Line to the French, if you'll accept the allusion."

For Thor's sake, she draws a straight line with her finger across the tabletop. "Invest everything in one line and someone will find a way to go over, under, or around it, yes? Is there a way we could encourage the use of the door? Whilst being primed and ready for anyone who bashes in through the window, which indicates they're either uncaring, unbothered, or unfriendly, I'm assuming."
Thor     The way Thor nods it's as if Dr. Strange has it in one when he restates their premise to verify. He again looks sidelong toward Jane as she is a strong anchor on which to base these thoughts and ideas. Then he nods along with the words given by the doctor of mystery and makes a small 'hmm' sound.
    His gaze returns to Jane as he listens to her own take on the matter and he nods at the point she mentions others might well take the wall as a challenge, knowing full well that some of the villains he's known might well take great joy in breaching it. "Perhaps..." He scritches a thumb along the curve of his chin, "As you say make it easier or well known for some that we prefer travel to be through this one location? And if some do not use it then it grants a clue as to their motives? The window, exactly."
    Thor shifts in his seat and ponders, "I understand that it may be more difficult for all such travelers. Since as you say, so many different approaches to such crossings." He takes a deep breath, "If naught else perhaps something for the realms we do know? Or the Nine Realms themselves?"
    Then something seems to occur to Thor as his eyes lower slightly and the look on his face shows clearly some internal monologue is argued with himself that has his eyebrows lifting and eyes widening slightly as if what occurs to him... is not a positive.
    Yet he does voice it after a moment as he says, "I am... reticent to mention. But mayhaps my brother's knowledge of the pathways between the realms. It might be of use. Though on the other hand... keeping him uninvolved might also be wise."
Stephen Strange Grey eyes flicker between Jane and Thor...then Stephen nods slowly. "Yes. Providing a door would be ideal. For most visits, being non-confrontational, that will work. It is common nature to walk through an open door. It will not deter any unwanted incursions, but it will provide a more secured path for those that want it." A shrug. "It would also provide a target. That cannot be discounted. There are going to be those that want to test this new entrance, just because it is there. And that we can prepare for. To be more proactive."

As far as pathways? Strange has something to say about that. "Oh, I am familiar with at least some of the pathways that can be taken." Then...the former surgeon's attention shifts from Thor...to Jane. "As I am sure there are others that know of other avenues in which they may be able to enter, as well." The attention lingers on Jane for just a bit longer, before both are regarded equally again. "though yes, I would certainly take not contacting your adopted brother under advisement."
Jane Foster For quite some time, Jane turns to the task of devouring the shaved ice. It already threatens to melt, becoming something more of a tasteful slurry rather than an actual dessert worthy of the name. Her spoon warms slightly between her fingertips and presses into the diminished lump, forming a tidy little crater out of the side vaguely reminiscent of Mount St. Helens. No destructive ruin about to emerge underneath the Sanctum here, at least.

Her sepia gaze travels between Thor and Stephen, the ping-pong match of the conversation leisurely and friendly rather than tense. Those matters they contemplate cause her thoughtful moments, pauses that lengthen into a companionable kind. She sits back into the seat a little bit, focused thoroughly on the situation presented.

"It may be of use. It may also be helpful to consider what counts as a safe and comfortable neutral ground. It probably needs to be New York, since so much happens around New York, as the playwright said."

Ah, what gentlemen contemplate draws out so many possibilities. "Targets exist one way or another. Is it worth the risk? If it's a known quantity, we can put something there. Like a raven."

No need to repress a grin. Her nod is nearly a nudge to Thor, in lieu of a physical one. "We have many routes to reach Earth. Where would you expect the door to be?"
Thor     As Doctor Strange offers his insight Thor listens. His gaze remains level on the mortal sorcerer and nods when he makes a point about the doorway being a potential target, and then another nod perhaps a little sour at mention of his brother, as if he felt he should mention... but also understood the reluctance.
    Then as Jane gives her angle as well, Thor watches and listens. A half-smile twists his features up at the mention of the raven, enough that causes him to exhale slightly in something that would almost be a laugh if he gave of himself more to it.
    "At the least." Thor says as he looks between the two, "We know it can possibly be done. Perhaps we could consolidate efforts with Diana in some way, though we shouldn't overload the capacity of one place I imagine." He leans over and takes another sip of his tankard, then straightens up.
    "I have enjoyed your hospitality, Doctor. You have my thanks of it. I shall leave you be to consider the possibilities. I am in residence at the Asgardian embassy. At your disposal as needs be."
    And with that, for now, the matter is to be considered even as Thor makes to take up his umbrella.