Chapter 269: The Odds Are Better
Previously, when Thor faced Malekith, he hadn't sought help from the Avengers. Reflecting on it, that wasn't without reason. At that time, neither Tony nor Banner had undergone any significant transformations.
The Avengers were smaller in number back then and not particularly powerful. Tony's technology and abilities could handle many challenges on Earth, but against a foe like Malekith, Tony's tech would only be marginally useful. As for Dr. Banner, he was still deeply resistant to Hulk's power, fearing the destruction it might bring if he couldn't control it.
Now, however, Tony was different. With blessings from the Void, his powers had transformed dramatically. Combined with his rapid technological advancements, Tony had grown into a formidable force that could hold his own in the cosmos. Banner had also undergone a psychological shift, though Thor wasn't fully aware of its extent.
Thor knew that Banner had come to terms with the Hulk within him and was now willing to harness its power. So, it was understandable for Thor to seek Tony's help, with Banner tagging along as a bonus.
The fact that the battlefield was in Asgard gave Harvey pause. Observing Asgard's situation wouldn't be difficult, so he decided to wait and watch.
After explaining the situation to Pepper, Tony was ready to leave. Although she knew he was about to face a dangerous enemy, she understood that Tony would still be in danger if they didn't stop this threat, even if he stayed on Earth. Thus, she supported his decision instead of trying to hold him back.
Watching the person she loved head into battle stirred a desire within Pepper to become stronger. Previously, joining the Void had granted her eternal youth and a prolonged lifespan, allowing her to remain by Tony's side. Any problems they faced, she trusted Tony to resolve. This lack of urgency had slowed her evolution within the Void, so even after four years, she had only progressed through 206 evolutions—over a hundred fewer than Tony.
Her growth so far hadn't been focused on power but rather on steady accumulation over multiple evolutions. Now, however, she felt a need to consider how she could grow stronger to better support Tony in this world of powerful beings.
"I'll be back as soon as we're done," Tony reassured her, clad in his Iron Man suit. "The Bifrost is pretty quick for getting back and forth from Earth."
"Miss Potts, I'll do everything I can to bring Tony back safely," Thor added, knowing his plea for help put Tony at risk and hoping his promise would put her at ease.
"I believe in you both," Pepper replied with a small smile.
With Pepper's support, Thor felt relieved. He led Tony and Banner to an open area at Stark Manor, where he raised Mjolnir and called out, "Heimdall!"
A beam of light enveloped the trio, and in a matter of seconds, they were transported to Asgard's great hall.
"Your golden armor looks great—very retro," Tony remarked, whistling in appreciation when he spotted the imposing figure in gleaming armor.
"Yours isn't bad either—very high-tech," Heimdall responded, observing Tony's red and gold suit.
Thor stepped forward to make introductions. "Heimdall here guards the Bifrost as Asgard's watchman. His eyes can see any place across the Nine Realms."
"Loki's little escapade on Earth? Heimdall was the one who informed us," Thor added.
"These are Iron Man, Tony Stark, and Hulk, Bruce Banner. You probably already know that," Thor said.
"Of course. Thank you both for lending your strength in this war," Heimdall said with a nod, offering them a warm smile.
Tony's helmet retracted, revealing his face. "Earth is one of the Nine Realms, after all. It's only fair we help out when there's danger threatening it."
Banner, a little embarrassed, chuckled. "I hope you didn't catch any of my... less impressive moments."
Heimdall turned to him with a knowing smile. "Bruce Banner, you're not a disappointment. I've seen how much you've worked to control Hulk's power over the past year. Now you can harness it fully. Hulk's power may have been a tough gift, but it's also your greatest asset, wouldn't you say?"
Thor's eyes widened. "Wait—Banner can control Hulk now?"
Banner nodded, smiling. "After some training, I can transform at will."
"Fantastic! Our odds just went up," Thor cheered, slapping a hand on Banner's shoulder.
Originally, he had brought Banner along mostly because Tony's request for help happened to coincide with Banner's presence. Hulk's strength was undeniable, but Banner's lack of control made it a risky asset.
But with Banner now able to transform freely, things were looking much brighter.