After the battle in New York, Leisy, Reno, Kael, and the Seer decided to stay on Earth for a while, with Tony covering all their expenses.
Though they weren't concerned about the money—each of them was a billionaire in their own right—they were more interested in experiencing life on Earth, especially the cuisine and entertainment that Tony had previously mentioned.
Their initial arrival had been overshadowed by the urgency of preparing for war, leaving no time for relaxation. Now that the battle was over, they could finally enjoy themselves without any burdens and plan their daily adventures.
Three days later, on one of Tony's private islands,
"Thor, thank you for your help this time," Tony said with a smile. "Remember to come visit Earth from time to time. I hope to have a match with you someday."
"Protecting the Nine Realms is my duty, so no need for thanks," Thor replied, also smiling. "With your cosmic communicator, it'll be easy to stay in touch. If Earth is threatened again, just let me know, as long as I'm not too tangled up in my troubles. I will definitely come to protect Earth."
Tony felt reassured by Thor's words. "That's good to hear. See you later!"
Thor nodded and turned to Steve and Banner, who were there to see him off.
He then activated the power of the Cosmic Cube, and a beam of light shot up, carrying him and Loki back to Asgard.
"While I find it somewhat magical, I must say having gods in the world can be a good thing at times," Steve remarked, watching Thor and Loki depart with a hint of wonder.
"Don't get too comfortable," Tony cautioned. "If there are gods, then there must also be demons and all sorts of terrifying entities."
"Even with powerful protectors guarding Earth, if humanity remains overall weak—"
"If we can't even buy time until reinforcements arrive, we could easily face unimaginable disasters."
"For humanity to truly survive in the universe, we must rely on our development, not just the rescue of others."
Hearing Steve's words was like a bucket of cold water splashed over Tony. It served as a reminder to himself not to slack off.
Even if Earth were destroyed, he had his escape routes. But for the billions of humans on Earth, there were no such options.
He had the ability to help countless people on Earth find a way out, and he would do so.
Although humanity had not yet united and still faced internal strife, there were also many innocent people among them.
"Rely on our own strength, huh…"
"Tony, is the person you mentioned earlier, Harvey Ambaraka?"
Steve's eyes flickered, and he clenched his fists, asking the question.
"Looks like you heard it from Banner," Tony replied, not denying it.
"Yeah, Banner told me that if he seeks out Harvey Ambaraka and gains his approval, he'll be able to control his power completely."
Steve nodded at this information.
"Steve took quite a hit during the battle, so I had a chat with him," Banner explained, providing context for his disclosure.
"So, Steve, do you desire power?"
Tony regarded Steve thoughtfully.
"My strength is only just sufficient on Earth," Steve replied.
"When facing an external invasion, I lack the power to protect what I wish to protect."
"That's why I want to know if I can gain even greater power to safeguard Earth."
Steve's eyes held a complex mixture of determination and hope.
"Let me introduce you to him," Tony said.
"If you gain his recognition and his blessing, you will see and experience a world that goes beyond Earth, stretching across the universe."
"Once you have his approval, I'll explain everything in detail. If not, don't blame me for withholding information."
As Tony spoke, he took out his phone and dialed a number.
After a brief pause, the call connected.
A projection of a tall, handsome man with black hair and striking starry eyes appeared before Steve and Banner.
"I'm aware of your intentions," he said.
"By receiving my blessing, you will transcend the limits of human lifespan, gaining a much longer life."
"A lengthy life brings not only power but also loneliness."
"Tony has found a purpose for his ideals, which is why he chose to accept this blessing."
"What about you? Have you found your own purpose and ideals for your long life?"
As Harvey's projection appeared, he instantly grasped the situation and addressed them directly.
Note: If you are interested, read up to chapter 254 at patreon.com/MythicForge11