Chapter 242: Loki Realizes His Mistake
"My body's frailty was erased, and now I have immense physical strength."
"My dream of reaching the universe has also been realized. I've seen the vastness beyond Earth."
"And because of this, my personality and approach to life have also changed," Tony continued.
"With a strong body, I no longer feel tired from doing things, and my energy has increased."
"Having more time due to my extended lifespan, along with my newfound strength, means I can pursue everything I've ever wanted to accomplish."
"My dreams and ideals are no longer distant and unreachable. As long as I have time and make the effort, they can all be achieved one day."
The reason Tony was telling Thor and Loki all this was simple: being born with long lifespans, Thor and Loki likely couldn't fully grasp how humanity, constrained by their short lives, often had to abandon one dream after another.
His psychological changes after joining the Void were something that, while not identical, could surely be found in many members of the Void Cult.
And the figure who granted them this power, Kassadin, held immeasurable weight in their hearts. That much was clear.
"I understand now," Thor said, with a sense of realization in his voice.
"I get it too. I'll be more mindful when interacting with members of the Void Cult from now on," Loki added.
"As long as I don't mention Kassadin, right?"
Loki, being more sharp-minded than Thor, quickly grasped the point.
The members of the Void Cult were formidable individuals with immense potential and a deep reverence for Kassadin. As long as one didn't offend Kassadin or tarnish his name, the members would remain civil. At worst, they wouldn't become enemies.
But if Loki made that mistake, he'd be hunted endlessly unless he stayed in Asgard forever.
"As long as you get it," Tony said, satisfied.
"I've told you the rules, so this is the last time I'm helping you."
"If you offend the Void Cult again, you're on your own."
Seeing that Thor and Loki both understood his point, Tony nodded approvingly.
"Alright, I've explained the rules, and you've learned a bit about the Void Cult."
"Now, Loki, it's time for me to send you off the island."
Tony stood up, not wanting to keep Loki around any longer. He didn't want the trouble Loki could potentially cause.
"Even though my brother thanked you on my behalf, I think I should thank you personally."
"Tony Stark, thank you for saving me…"
Loki, sensing that Tony didn't want him here, finally offered his thanks.
He realized now that coming to the Void Island without proper understanding had been a grave mistake.
If it weren't necessary, he wouldn't dare set foot on this island again.
Hearing Loki's words, both Thor and Tony were surprised.
Tony knew Loki's character well—twisted and stubborn, despite being over 1,500 years old, he often behaved like an immature child.
Tony had never expected Loki to express gratitude, especially given his notorious reputation.
Thor, too, was taken aback. Rarely had he seen Loki acknowledge his mistakes and thank someone.
"Don't bother sending me off. I can leave Void Island on my own. Until we meet again," Loki said, feeling uncomfortable under their surprised gazes. He promptly turned into shards of light and disappeared.
"Thor, it seems your brother needs more beatings to truly realize his mistakes," Tony commented with a chuckle.
"Beating him alone won't do much," Thor laughed.
"Loki's just stubborn. He's always been clever, though. He knows how to leave himself a way out."
"This time, he probably came to Void Island thinking he could get a blessing from Kassadin and gain more power."
"Even if he didn't succeed, he likely thought Kassadin wouldn't bother punishing him. But when things didn't go according to his plan, and he almost got himself killed, that's when he realized his mistake," Thor explained with a smile.
He was getting better at understanding his brother's convoluted thinking.
There was nothing wrong with seeking more power—everyone wanted to grow stronger.
Even Thor himself wanted to become as powerful as his father, Odin, a legendary force in the universe. Only by reaching that level could he protect Asgard and the Nine Realms.
But Thor also knew that gaining strength took time. He wasn't in a rush since Odin was still around.
"In any case, Loki's learned his lesson. I doubt he'll come back to Void Island anytime soon."
"Thor, don't forget what you promised me," Tony reminded.
"You owe me some good drinks."
"When you come back to Earth, I'll bring some great Asgardian wine, and we'll have a drink together," Thor replied with a grin.
"Thanks again for saving my troublesome brother."
With that, Thor ended the call.
Tony, now that everything was dealt with, stood on the empty balcony, took a sip of his drink, and gazed at the setting sun.
Once Lalatina officially started working for him, she'd be the one delivering meals. But since that wasn't happening until tomorrow, he decided to head to the dining hall himself.
As dusk settled in, the dining hall was bustling with members of the Void Cult.
Tony's arrival didn't stir much hostility or strange looks.
Thanks to Reno and the others explaining the situation, the members understood that Loki's presence had been an unfortunate incident for Tony.
With that in mind, they didn't hold any grudges against him.