Tony felt it was important to thank his cosmic allies. Without their assistance, the outcome of the battle could have gone either way. He intended to express his gratitude by treating them to a lavish feast.
Once the fighting had subsided, S.H.I.E.L.D. began the process of recovery and cleanup.
Though many Chitauri ships had been destroyed, some key pieces of technology, including the massive war machines and the infamous "turtle" ships, remained intact. Analyzing this Chitauri technology could significantly accelerate human advancements.
After witnessing Tony's impressive display of power, Thor and Loki found a place to rest. The aftermath of the battle weighed heavily on Thor's heart; seeing so many humans perish affected him deeply, as he considered them his subjects in a way.
However, he felt dissatisfied with his performance, knowing he couldn't fly as effortlessly as Tony or Reno.
On the other hand, Loki's lack of treachery during the battle brought Thor some solace.
Before the fight began, Loki had contemplated betraying the Chitauri but quickly dismissed the idea after witnessing the overwhelming strength displayed by Tony and his friends.
If he had chosen to turn on them, he would have faced the consequences, not the Chitauri.
Tony alone was formidable, but the strength of Reno, Kyle, the Seer, and Raycee was truly intimidating.
Loki realized that these individuals likely shared the same blessings from Harvey Amberlock as Tony did.
He was curious about Harvey's true name and decided he would investigate further.
Even though he had no leads on Harvey's true identity, the arrival of Reno and the others offered a promising avenue for discovery.
With time, Loki hoped to uncover the truth and see if he too could receive Harvey's blessings.
Reno, the Seer, and Kyle were all powerful in their own right, but their abilities seemed to have been enhanced by some external force.
Loki wondered just how many individuals Harvey could bless.
Typically, blessings have limits, and the more potent ones often require specific qualifications or rare artifacts as conduits to grant extraordinary power to others.
He felt confident that he could uncover these mysteries with time and didn't feel the need to rush.
"Looks like you're adapting to your power better," Steve remarked, observing Banner, who had already returned to his normal form just minutes after the battle ended.
"It's not that; Hulk transformed back on his own," Banner replied. "I still can't fully adapt to his strength."
"However, Tony was right; Hulk's power isn't a curse upon me but a blessing that gives me more options in dire situations."
"If used correctly, it could be a force to protect others. I want to accept this power and become someone who can safeguard others," he added, gently touching his chest over his heart, his eyes shining with determination.
Banner had witnessed the Chitauri kill many innocents, and although he couldn't save them all, he had unleashed Hulk, who had taken out thousands of Chitauri soldiers.
If he could better control his inner strength, allowing Hulk to hear his thoughts—or even become Hulk completely—he could have done much more.
These thoughts had once seemed impossible to him, but now, after encountering Tony and his powerful friends, Banner's mindset had changed. He no longer wanted to shy away from his responsibilities.
If he could fully control the power within him, he wouldn't have to fear pursuing a romantic interest again.
In the past, his inability to control his power had cost him a chance at love, and he didn't want to let that happen again.
"Hulk's strength is indeed immense. I feel like his power is close to theirs; it's just the skill gap that makes the difference," Steve replied.
"If you can master that power, you'll become extraordinarily strong."
"But to control your transformations, you'll need to practice under Tony's watchful eye."
"Otherwise, it could lead to a catastrophe," Steve advised, giving Banner a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
Banner nodded earnestly, understanding the importance of this training.
"I know; I'll seek Tony out for some focused practice."
"I'm not sure when I'll be able to use it, but it's better to be prepared," he said.
"Shall we grab a drink?" Steve suggested, seeing Banner's earnest demeanor.
"I can't drink, so I'll sit this one out," Banner replied, waving a hand.
"However, you've witnessed a lot today; it must have been quite a blow to your spirit."
"...Being shaken is an understatement. I woke up from ice to find decades had passed," Steve admitted.
"I thought things had merely advanced in technology, but I was blindsided by the emergence of so many individuals more powerful than myself."
"Yet alongside this disillusionment, there's a flicker of hope," he continued, a smile breaking through his somberness.
"Tony may be arrogant, but his commitment to protecting Earth is genuine," Steve concluded.
"Let's go," Banner said, sensing Steve's somewhat forced smile and knowing he had inadvertently touched a sore spot.
"Where to?" Steve asked, curious.
"Let's go have a drink. I may not be able to, but I can keep you company."
"Besides, after the battle, I don't want to be alone," Banner added, a smile returning to his face.
"Alright, then I'd appreciate your company," Steve replied, momentarily taken aback before chuckling.
"Of course," Banner nodded, and together they departed.