Chapter 72: What Exactly Do You Do?
He had initially planned to join SHIELD to provide comprehensive support. His strength could only protect himself and those around him; to safeguard Earth, he needed others on the planet to grow stronger too. However, with the presence of internal traitors, he would have to be selective about the support he provided.
Handing over some of his technology to SHIELD might lead to unforeseen problems if it fell into the wrong hands.
"I'll relax for a few days, then head back to the universe," Tony said. "And don't forget to look into the technology of the universal translator and communicator. Researching them could prove immensely useful."
Harvey noted that Tony understood the importance and left after finishing his drink.
Tony, after Harvey's departure, finished the leftover food and then headed to his underground lab to start his research. He knew that if he could dissect the technology of the universal translator and communicator, it would not only enhance his control over the Iron Man suit but also provide Earth with incredibly useful technology. This could facilitate Earth's integration with the wider universe.
Harvey mentioned advanced civilizations in the universe. Earth's technology was still lagging. Thus, Tony's goal was to continually think and innovate, striving to catch up with the technological advancements of other planets. He aimed to make Earth strong enough to stand on its own in the cosmos, even without Harvey's protection. He would not allow Earth to end up in the situation Harvey had described, where its destruction would go unnoticed.
Back home, Harvey ordered some takeout and played a game he hadn't touched in a month. Despite the advanced technology of Shandar, its food and entertainment options were not as developed or comprehensive as Earth's. He missed Earth's lifestyle and cuisine.
Harvey spent three days on Earth resting without any particular agenda. He drove to Chinatown for some Chinese delicacies and left Earth feeling satisfied, ready to return to space. If he didn't want to evolve by consuming unappetizing materials like metal, he needed to stay focused and avoid wasting time.
On Xandar, at the Elite Hotel:
Sonia saw Mr. Kassadin, dressed in his golden armor, had indeed returned today.
"Welcome back, Mr. Kassadin. I'll prepare breakfast for you right away," Sonia said, her eyes showing surprise before she quickly composed herself.
"Thanks," Harvey replied, taking out the universal communicator and connecting to the bounty hunter's website.
During his three-day absence, there were requests for specific tasks and invitations to meet, but none from people Harvey knew, so he paid them no mind. He focused on accepting new bounties to eliminate disasters. For him, the money was secondary; the evolution points gained from defeating disasters were far more important.
He had encountered many types of disasters: some were humanoid and stubborn, others elemental, and vanished after being killed. He didn't have a habit of consuming these entities directly, otherwise, he wouldn't have only evolved eighty times from eighteen tier-three missions. Although these missions weren't always highly rewarding, they had built his reputation across various planets.
With his reputation solidified, he only needed to wait for the right opportunity to promote the Void, and people would come to him.
When Sonia brought his breakfast, she found Mr. Kassadin already seated at the table. She began serving him naturally, following her routine.
After finishing his meal, Harvey sat on the couch, contemplating his planned route.
"Mr. Kassadin, don't you have any pressing matters today?" Sonia asked softly, noticing he hadn't rushed off as usual after finishing his meal. She was a bit anxious, feeling like she might have overstepped.
"There's work to be done, but there's no rush today," Harvey replied, glancing at Sonia before returning to his thoughts.
He had completed all tier-three disaster missions, and now only tier-two tasks remained. These were less difficult but still required strategic prioritization for efficient handling.
"Mr. Kassadin, you seem to always be deep in thought. Is something troubling you?" Sonia asked as she cleared the table, relieved by Harvey's casual tone.
"It's not exactly trouble. I'm just working towards the goals I've set," Harvey said, surprised by Sonia's unusually talkative nature but not hiding his responses to these non-private questions.
"Mr. Kassadin, even with your immense wealth, you remain dedicated and steadfast in pursuing your plans. It's truly admirable," Sonia said, smiling and admiringly watching him.
"Is that a compliment?" Harvey asked, a bit uncertain.
"Not just a compliment; it's sincere," Sonia replied. "Not everyone can stick to their plans and take decisive action. Many people struggle to even articulate what they truly want and end up living passively."
"So, Mr. Kassadin, your clear plans for the future genuinely impress me," Sonia said, with a hint of envy in her eyes.
"Whether it's flattery or genuine, it's pleasant to hear," Harvey said as he stood up and glanced at Sonia.
With that, Harvey's figure disappeared from the villa, heading out to execute his mission.
"What exactly does Mr. Kassadin do…?" Sonia wondered aloud after he left, her curiosity piqued by the rare moment of Mr. Kassadin's contentment.