89

Chapter 89: The Beginning of a New Era

The year is now 2008, a time of significant changes in the Marvel Universe.

At an awards ceremony for scientific achievements, Tony Stark continues to be as flamboyant as ever on the big screen.

To clarify, Tony Stark isn't just a wealthy playboy; he is genuinely talented, boasting an IQ of 250—far surpassing the combined IQ and EQ of Miss System.

Especially in the field of advanced weaponry, Stark's contributions have significantly advanced the United States' achievements in this area.

Yet, as usual, Stark did not appear to accept the award on stage. Instead, he was leading a group of models in gambling, frequently flaunting his wealth and eliciting exaggerated cheers.

Thor finally understood why Tony Stark looked so impressive while lighting his cigarettes—he was burning real money.

At this moment, it was Obadiah Stane, the second-largest shareholder of Stark Industries, who accepted the award on Stark's behalf.

A middle-aged man with a friendly, approachable demeanor, Stane's primary roles included managing Stark's various behaviors and handling the company's finances—essentially, he was a jack-of-all-trades.

"Hey, this is the kind of treatment that should be reserved for the main character," Thor mused, sipping champagne in a casino's elegant lounge. "A wealthy man who makes money, attracts women, and manages the hero's mishaps—a true main character's standard. And there are two such men!"

"System? System? Why aren't you responding?"

Miss System replied with a hint of exasperation, "If Stane can be considered a main character, then so can you. Don't underestimate yourself!"

Thor grew frustrated at the mention of it. "Forget about Stane. I have my doubts about him. I've been unable to find anyone for eight years."

Despite SOKOVIA not being small, Thor had been searching for eight years without success. Even if Eastern Europe wasn't his primary area of focus, it was still quite poor.

Miss System remained calm, "Isn't this good? No clichés, just a hero and heroine meeting in a vast crowd..."

"Stop right there!" Thor interrupted. "First, I have no connection to Wanda, and I don't have any plans in that direction. Plus, she already has a love interest!"

Miss System asked, "So, are you going to allow Vision to be created?"

"Absolutely not."

"Oh, come on!"

Thor felt somewhat wronged. He was focused on acquiring the Mind Stone. If it were given to Vision, it might end up in Thanos's hands just like in the original storyline.

After all, besides his initial moments, Vision's highlight moments were mainly during the Civil War. Later, he became a mere pawn in the battles against Thanos.

However, thinking of Vision reminded Thor of something else: "By the way, since Vision doesn't need to be created, could all that Vibranium be used to build a body for you in the future?"

Thor expected Miss System to be thrilled, but after a moment of silence, she firmly refused: "No."

Thor was surprised. "Why?"

Miss System replied, "I don't want to leave you."

Thor was perplexed. "Speak English."

Miss System's refusal was rather unsatisfactory.

…

"I'm not Tony Stark. But if I were, I'd say: I'm honored to receive this trophy. It's a recognition of my achievements!"

On stage, Obadiah praised Stark and then humorously criticized his extravagant style, eliciting laughter from the audience.

At that moment, Tony Stark was seated across from Thor.

"Tomorrow morning, I'm heading to Afghanistan to showcase my latest Jericho missile to the military! Care to join me?"

Though his face was calm, the eagerness in his eyes betrayed his excitement.

Testing one's own well-designed weapons was a thrilling experience and definitely required an audience. Thor was the perfect person to impress.

Faced with Stark's invitation, Thor declined.

Though Stark was a genius, he was still constrained by Earth's outdated technology. Asgard's missiles were far superior, and Thor wondered if he could someday take Stark to Wakanda to broaden his horizons.

Moreover, Thor knew Stark's journey would not be without challenges, marking a pivotal moment in his life—a transition from an ordinary inventor to a superhero.