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Chapter 120: Returning to Asgard

Jane slowly opened her eyes and stared at the ceiling above her.

Where am I?

"The funds have been transferred to your account. I will be away for a while, so you will assist in constructing the new Avengers base. The venue should be as large as possible, and money is not an issue. In the future, S.H.I.E.L.D. can also relocate there," Thor's voice came through.

"Damn it, where did you get so much money? Don't tell me it came from the research center!" Natalia complained from the other end of the phone. While Maya Hansen's research earnings are substantial, it's impossible they amount to ten billion...

"Don't worry, the money was obtained through legitimate channels, and there won't be any issues."

This was not a lie. On the surface, Kingpin's identity is that of a major entrepreneur and wealthy individual, making the funds he provided entirely plausible. Even if there were problems, they could be managed.

In fact, his wealth might surpass even Tony Stark's.

"By the way, remind Nick Fury about Sokovia. He shouldn't act rashly until I return. Unless he's prepared for the Avengers to be in danger."

This wasn't alarmist talk; Wanda's abilities are as volatile as a roller coaster. Without someone of my or Jane's strength, a reckless attack could lead to disastrous consequences.

After ending the call, Thor turned to the bewildered Jane Foster and asked with a smile, "How do you feel? Any discomfort?"

Jane shook her head. "I'm okay, but I'm a bit tired. I fell into a strange space, and it was filled with gray silence. Before I lost consciousness, a red mist entered my body. Do you know what that was?"

Thor leaned in and said, "It's not your fault. The space you described is likely related to the Dark Elves. They are a malevolent race determined to plunge the universe back into darkness."

"Many years ago, the former king of Asgard, my grandfather Bor, led an army against them. During that war, the Dark Elves used a treasure called the Aether to create a large number of cursed warriors. We eventually won, but the Aether went missing."

"If I'm not mistaken, the red substance in your body is the legendary Aether, also known as the Reality Gem, which has the ability to alter reality."

Jane's interest was piqued. She was no longer the naive scientist she once was and had learned about the Infinity Gems from Asgardian texts.

Jane Foster asked curiously, "But if the Dark Elves had a treasure that could alter reality, how could they lose?"

Thor tapped her lightly on the head. "Do you really believe a gem is invincible? Altering reality is a powerful ability, but it has limitations. Otherwise, the other Infinity Gems would be pointless."

"Firstly, the greater the modification, the more energy is required. When energy is insufficient, it drains the vitality of the user. Secondly, the effects of modification are temporary. When the Dark Elf was transformed into a cursed warrior, the effect was brief. Once it wore off, the warrior would die."

"This is why Thanos needs to collect all six gems to snap his fingers. The Reality Gem alone is somewhat limited; it needs support from other gems."

"The Power Gem provides the energy needed to eradicate half of all life. The Space Gem extends the range of the snap to the entire universe. The Time Gem makes the alteration of reality permanent."

"As for the Mind Gem and Soul Gem, I don't know their exact roles in this context."

Jane's mind seemed to be racing with thoughts.

Thor noticed and said with a smile, "Don't even think about exploiting any loopholes. It won't work. I checked, and when the lifespan becomes infinite, it won't be recognized by the Aether."

Jane stuck out her tongue, feeling a bit embarrassed.

"What are we going to do now? I heard you mention you're leaving. Where are you going?"

Jane, though assertive and independent, was used to deferring to Thor.

"I'm taking you back to Asgard. Although the Aether won't harm you immediately, it's not advisable to leave it in your body for too long. I'll get the magicians to examine it."

Thor picked up the still-weak Jane and leaped out of the window, calling out, "Heimdallr, take us back!"

The bright light enveloped them, and Thor and Jane vanished from sight.

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