"Tony, can you introduce me to that person you mentioned?"
"Please, I want to meet him."
Upon hearing this, Thor realized that the individual Tony referred to likely had a deeper understanding of the universe than he did.
"I can't make decisions for that person," Tony replied, shaking his head. "But the fact that he hasn't come out to meet you suggests he doesn't want to involve himself in your affairs."
Thor processed Tony's words. If this mysterious figure knew about his banishment, it implied that his every move on Earth was being observed.
"I don't know for sure, but he did tell me you'd be searching for your hammer," Tony continued. "That's why I found you—so you could reclaim it. I just didn't expect you wouldn't be able to lift it."
Thor was unsettled by the thought that someone seemed to know him so intimately, realizing that this person might even understand the nuances of Asgardian matters and his fall from grace.
"Well, that's all I have to say about my journey of self-discovery," Tony said, glancing at Jane and Darcy. "What are your thoughts?"
"Pretty much what I suspected—having a heart for justice means being willing to fight for the weak," Jane replied. "But it's more than just talk; it needs to come from the heart. If you truly feel that way, Thor, you should earn the hammer's approval."
"I'm ready to fight for the people of Asgard, even to the point of giving my life for them," Thor argued. "How does that differ from what you just said?"
"You're different from Tony Stark," Jane clarified. "Tony is a human from Earth, and his desire to protect and uplift his planet is enough to be considered just. But you, as Thor, son of Odin, the rightful heir to Asgard, have responsibilities that go beyond just protecting Asgard. You must also safeguard the world under Odin's protection. I can see why your father would be enraged to see you provoke war instead of protecting the realms."
Thor clenched his fists at Jane's words, feeling the weight of his responsibilities press upon him. He had not realized before why his past misdeeds had gone largely unpunished; he now understood the gravity of his role as a prince.
"I understand now. I see it all."
As Thor stood, the hammer that Tony had placed on the table began to react, crackling with energy and flying toward him. He grasped the hammer, feeling its power surge back into him.
This trial had tested whether Thor could truly comprehend his responsibilities, and with Tony's insights and Jane's encouragement, he was finally ready to reclaim his identity.
"Welcome back, partner," Tony smiled, watching as Thor's powers returned.
With a flash of lightning, Thor donned his armor, the crimson cape billowing behind him, his earlier despair replaced by renewed confidence.
"My God!" Jane and Darcy exclaimed in shock, their belief in Thor's identity now undeniable.
"That's the look of a Thunder God," Tony remarked, pleased with the transformation.
"Thank you, Tony, Jane, Darcy. If it weren't for you, I would still be lost in regret and unable to grasp my father's intentions. I wouldn't understand what it truly means to be a king of Asgard, which requires not just strength, but compassion and a commitment to uplift my people."
"Instead of thanking me, you should thank Jane Foster," Tony interjected with a grin. "I merely pointed out the conditions; it was Jane who helped you see what it means to have a heart for justice."
Thor nodded, grateful to Jane. "I'll fulfill my promise to her. I will answer all her questions."
As he spoke, Thor's armor dissipated, returning him to his original form. He could return to Asgard at any time now that he had regained his powers, but he decided to stay on Earth a little longer to express his gratitude to Jane.
As for Tony Stark, he could wait for another opportunity to express his thanks.
Note: If you are interested, read up to chapter 190 at patreon.com/MythicForge11.