Chapter 201: Steve's Aspirations and Ideals
Steve pondered these words thoughtfully.
"I want to control the Hulk's power so that I can live entirely by my own choices. I wonder if that counts as an ideal?"
Banner wasn't surprised to hear that Harvey was already aware of his thoughts. After all, both Tony and Thor mentioned that Harvey was a very mysterious and powerful being.
"That thought, while modest, certainly qualifies as an ideal," Harvey replied. "Bruce Banner, you're a genius like Tony, making strides in technology. The main difference between you and Tony is your lack of confidence."
"But once you witness the vastness of the universe and the might of other beings, you will fully embrace your power and become stronger."
"So, I can give you a chance."
Harvey evaluated Banner's humble aspiration and spoke slowly.
"Thank you for your kind words."
Banner was momentarily taken aback but quickly regained his composure, expressing his gratitude. He had expected it would be difficult to gain recognition, yet here Harvey was, granting him an opportunity.
"Mr. Harvey Ambaraka, could you tell me what Tony's ideals and aspirations are?"
Steve asked, hesitating as he observed Harvey affirming Banner's intentions.
"Steve Rogers, there are no shortcuts in matters like this."
"The ideals and aspirations of others are always theirs, not yours."
"You differ from Tony and Banner," Harvey continued. "You injected the Super Soldier Serum and were frozen for decades, indirectly experiencing the passage of time."
"Although you didn't witness it firsthand, upon awakening, you learned that your comrades and friends have long since passed."
"You must have felt the harshness of time and the heartbreak of losing loved ones."
"If you gain my approval and blessing, that cruel experience will replay itself time and time again."
"So tell me, what are your ideals and aspirations?"
"Follow your heart; just say what comes to mind."
Harvey spoke to Steve slowly.
On Xandar, countless people daily hoped to join the Void Church and sought power.
Thus, Harvey had witnessed many holding various aspirations.
Some had genuine dreams and were willing to strive for them, patiently praying and waiting to ultimately receive blessings.
Others merely spoke of aspirations without taking any action or showing the determination to pursue them.
Harvey had no doubt about Steve Rogers possessing a sense of justice and the willingness to act for his ideals.
However, while the power of the Void was immense and could grant others longer lifespans, a long life wasn't suitable for everyone.
Experiencing the repeated loss of loved ones over time would undoubtedly be painful.
So, Harvey chose not to forge close friendships; he didn't want to invite negativity into his life.
"With such an extended lifespan, would Peggy be able to continue living?"
At Harvey's words, Steve's eyes flickered as he hesitated but eventually voiced his most pressing concern.
"Of course. Since I can grant someone a lifespan of over a thousand years, returning to youth is certainly within my abilities."
Harvey nodded lightly in affirmation.
"Returning to youth?"
Banner was astounded to hear this.
He had suspected that Harvey's power was tremendous, enabling him to achieve feats others couldn't even imagine. But he never expected Harvey to possess such unbelievable abilities.
"I've thought seriously about it. I want to protect what I care for, which is why I seek greater strength."
"But my current willingness to protect others and continuously sharpen my abilities stems entirely from Peggy."
"I know this request may seem excessive, but could you also grant Peggy the same blessing?"
Steve approached the request with caution, but when he heard that Harvey could fulfill it, he asked earnestly.
"You've been apart from Peggy for decades. She's lived out her mortal life."
"A soon-to-be mortal who gains strength and returns to youth might not share the same thoughts as before."
"You understand that human hearts are fickle."
"Are you sure you want me to do this?"
Harvey, not surprised by Steve's request, spoke slowly.
"I owe Peggy so much. I've even imagined what it would be like to return to the past and accompany her through life."
"But I lack the power to do so or anything I could rely on."
"Now that you say Peggy can continue living or even return to youth..."
"As long as Peggy is alive, she will be my anchor, carrying my aspirations."
As Steve spoke, his eyes brimmed with guilt and nostalgia.
Back in the day, he and Peggy were just a step away from marriage, ready to spend their lives together.
Yet, he had been frozen due to his mission for decades, and when he awoke, the world had changed irrevocably.
Just as Peggy had once said, he had been gone too long, returning too late.
Too late for Peggy, who was nearing death, and unable to rekindle the romance of their youth.
Previously, he had no way to remedy this, but now, upon meeting Harvey and learning about the chance for restitution,
Steve was determined to seize this opportunity for Peggy, a way to make amends and a form of solace for his own heart.
"I didn't realize you were such a romantic. While I wouldn't advise you to do this, I can offer you and your beloved Peggy a chance."
"However, before that, Tony, tell them about the Void Church, no need to hold back."
"After that, I will bestow my blessing, and they will become your fellow kin on Earth."
Observing the sincerity in Steve's eyes, Harvey considered for a moment before speaking.
Both Tony Stark and Steve Rogers chose to anchor their hopes in the women they loved, wishing to share the long years ahead with them.
To Harvey, such aspirations seemed somewhat ordinary and unreliable.
After all, human emotions can change; even the strongest bonds can wane over time.
But since Steve's sentiments were genuine, Harvey decided to grant him this opportunity.
As soon as he finished speaking, Harvey's projection faded from view.