Chapter 111 A War of Attrition: A Battle of Physical Strength
Chapter 112: War of Attrition: A Battle of Stamina
Chaos.
Thanos saw that after his confident strike,
Russell's hair was just messy.
His heart, too, was in chaos.
"Why?"
Thanos used energy to create a channel to transmit his voice.
"Why aren't you injured at all?"
Thanos, who had just overdrawn the Mind Stone's power and erupted with full force,
had numerous tiny blood vessels broken beneath his skin, and dark red patterns appeared on his right hand.
But Russell, who had directly taken Thanos's charged punch,
had the emperor armor on his head completely shattered, and his hair was severely dented.
Under the aftershocks, his clothes also became tattered.
But that was all.
It was completely different from Thanos's expectation of severely injuring or even killing Russell with one blow to turn the tide.
Russell's life aura had not weakened in the slightest.
Not a single scratch could be seen on his entire body.
Even his hairstyle quickly returned to normal.
Raising his hand, Russell grabbed two strands of hair.
"Not bad, Thanos, you knocked out two strands of my hair."
Seeing Russell safe and sound, Star-Lord and the others breathed a sigh of relief.
They had thought something had happened to Russellwhen they saw Thanos's victorious expression after he sent Russell flying.
Nebula and Gamora, the two sisters, had inexplicable expressions.
They hoped someone would kill Thanos, but seeing Thanos in decline made them uncomfortable.
Thanos's face was grim; Russell's words were undoubtedly a provocation in his eyes, but he was helpless.
At this moment, he finally felt the powerlessness others experienced when facing his Titan body.
"Fire!"
Thanos gestured, pointing at Russell, signaling the other fleets in the distance to unleash a barrage of fire.
He knew that with Russell's physical defense and speed, these gunfire would not pose much of a threat to him.
But as long as it could slightly weaken Russell's stamina, it would be a gain.
In this war of attrition, any factor could become the last straw that broke the camel's back.
This was the fourth round, a battle of stamina.
Looking at the countless energy shells coming, Russellwas unmoved.
There were too many; he was too lazy to intercept them.
Similarly, there were too many fighter jets under Thanos's command; he was too lazy to blow them up one by one.
The next moment, various energy attacks covered the area where Russell was, completely obscuring everyone's vision.
Thanos hadn't expected Russell to choose to take the attacks head-on.
And the hearts of Star-Lord and the others, which had just settled, rose again.
At the center of the attack, after Russell activated his talent [Energy Absorption], he no longer paid attention to these attacks.
Instead, his gaze turned to the center of this star system, that red dwarf.
Although its mass and temperature were inferior to the Sun's, this red dwarf was as passionate and unrestrained as the Sun.
The next moment, without anyone noticing, the Sun's energy, which was originally evenly distributed and radiated in all directions from this red dwarf, began to converge in one direction.
The direction where Russell, Thanos, and his subordinates were located.
More than ten minutes quietly passed.
In the past ten minutes, the battle situation had not changed at all.
The change came from outside the battle.
A terrifying solar storm, without any warning, suddenly swept in.
Exposed to the solar storm without any protection, the electronic components of the fighter jets were rapidly burned out.
Sparks bloomed in space.
And after the solar storm, there were more concentrated, more destructive high-energy plasma energy beams.
The targets of these energy beams were the large carriers.
For a time, this cosmic void was constantly filled with dazzling explosion sparks.
"Thanos, the game is over. It's time to end you."
Thanos looked in the direction of the voice; Russell had already appeared before him at some point.
Seeing Russell appear safe and sound, Thanos knew in his heart that the solar storm just now must have been his doing.
"It's not that easy to kill me.
"I don't believe that you spent so much energy clearing out miscellaneous soldiers without any loss of stamina."
"You don't need to worry about that, Thanos."
Russell had a strange expression; after Blood God, another enemy appeared who doubted his endurance.
He was going to give Thanos a surprise later.
Divine power circulated, Russell erupted with full force, throwing a punch.
"Let's see if you can survive my attack first."
Thanos also met the punch.
Now that all means had been exhausted, only a desperate fight remained.
Just as the fists were about to collide, a spatial ripple appeared, and Russell suddenly appeared behind Thanos.
A heavy punch landed on the back of his head.
Caught off guard, Thanos was somewhat stunned by the blow, and his body flew uncontrollably diagonally downwards.
Another spatial ripple, Russell appeared below Thanos.
An upward kick landed on Thanos's purple wrinkled chin.
Thanos's figure changed direction again, flying backwards.
Russell flashed again, appearing behind Thanos, intending to give him another fierce blow to the back of the head.
However, this time, Thanos adjusted his body in time and blocked it with his forearm.
Russell discovered an unpleasant fact.
Although Thanos had suffered two heavy blows in a row, looking disheveled and spitting blood continuously,
his life aura had not decreased much.
Although Thanos's tankiness was not as good as his own,
his attacks, landing on him, could not cause too much damage either.
This battle would probably truly drag into a war of attrition.
Just as Russell and Thanos were engaged in a war of attrition,
on Earth, in a secret S.H.I.E.L.D. Base, Coulson and Furywere walking side by side.
This Base was where S.H.I.E.L.D. stored and studied the Tesseract (Space Stone).
Not long ago, researchers discovered that the Tesseractsuddenly emitted a surge of energy on its own.
And this energy was continuously climbing, with the danger of exploding at any time.
Fury had no choice but to order the evacuation of all personnel and the transfer of research data.
Soon, Fury found the project's chief engineer, Dr. Erik, and his assistant Jane Foster.
"Dr. Erik, do you know what the problem is?"
Dr. Erik motioned for Fury to follow him, saying as they walked:
"The Tesseract itself is an energy source.
"We can only detect a small amount of gamma rays it releases right now.
"We don't yet have the technology or conditions to control it."
Fury nodded perfunctorily, then turned to ask HawkeyeClint, who was in charge of security.
He didn't know much about technology and had nothing much to talk about with Dr. Erik.
"Clint, have you found anything unusual?"
"Director, all researchers have been screened; there are no problems."
Clint first gave his assurance, then looked at the Tesseractin front of him and speculated.
"Since the Tesseract serves as a gateway to the other side of the Universe,
"then the troublemaker might not be on this side, but behind the door."
No sooner had he finished speaking than the Tesseract's energy climbed abnormally, and a blue portal formed.
Thanos's other two great generals,
Ebony Maw and Black Dwarf, emerged from it.
Chapter 112 For Russell
Chapter 113: For Russell
The moment the two stepped out of the portal, S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents immediately reacted, drawing their guns and aiming, ready to attack.
Director Fury first raised his hand, stopping the S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents from attacking.
Then, looking at the two aliens before him, one tall and mighty, the other slender and elegant, he questioned:
"Who are you?"
The slender and elegant one bowed slightly and introduced himself:
"I am Ebony Maw, son of Thanos, Master of the Dark Order."
After introducing himself, Ebony Maw pointed to the tall, mighty, and ferocious-looking individual.
"Black Dwarf."
Seeing that the aliens in front of him could communicate, Director Fury continued to ask:
"What is your purpose in coming to Earth?"
Ebony Maw smiled elegantly: "Representing the great Titan, to save you."
Director Fury frowned and refused: "We don't need saving."
Ebony Maw shook his head and slowly walked towards Director Fury and the others.
He raised his hand, and powerful telekinesis moved with it.
The next second, various objects on the ground trembled slightly, then floated up, shooting towards Director Furyand the others.
Director Fury and the S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents quickly dropped to the ground, rolling to dodge, and firing their weapons in return.
Then...
Click, click.
The triggers were pulled, but the firearms in their hands showed no reaction.
Unbeknownst to them, the gun safeties had been re-engaged.
Hawkeye quickly drew his bow and arrow, firing an arrow directly at Ebony Maw's face.
However, Ebony Maw waved his hand, and his telekinesis easily swatted the arrow away.
This was an unequal battle, with two generals of the Dark Order fighting against S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents.
Before long, all the S.H.I.E.L.D. personnel in the Basewere knocked down, losing their combat capability.
And Ebony Maw, also adhering to Thanos's principle,
randomly, without personal bias, with absolute fairness, regardless of status, killed half the people in the Base.
Coulson, who survived the massacre on the S.H.I.E.L.D.helicarrier, called a meeting of the Avengers.
There were a total of six Avengers:
Iron Man Tony, Captain America Steve, Hawkeye Barton, Black Widow Natasha, Dr. Banner, and Blade.
Hawkeye was very lucky; he was also among the surviving half.
As for Steve, he had only recently awakened and just completed his rehabilitation training.
In addition, Thor participated as an external aid, and Jane Foster participated as Dr. Erik's assistant.
"So, two aliens claiming to be from the Dark Order took the Tesseract and killed half the people in the Base."
After listening to Coulson's statement, Tony stroked his chin, summarizing.
Barton, Coulson, and Jane Foster nodded with grave expressions.
Natasha, confused, asked:
"What is the Dark Order? And what is the Tesseract?"
Thor explained to everyone:
"The Dark Order is a powerful evil force in the Universe.
"For millennia, they have attacked Planets, randomly killing half of the population on each Planet.
"The Tesseract is a divine artifact with infinite energy."
Tony stood up and looked at the three:
"I'm very curious, why are you researching the Tesseract?
"For energy? Stark Industries already has that."
Tony had a premonition that the three had not told the whole truth.
Coulson's expression shifted slightly, and he fell silent.
"The Tesseract can be used to create various high-tech weapons."
Steve suddenly stood up, also looking at the three.
"HYDRA back then used the Tesseract to create weapons, attempting to subvert the World."
Coulson's expression changed.
Steve's implication was to question whether S.H.I.E.L.D.intended to emulate HYDRA, using the Tesseract to research weapons and subvert the World.
More importantly, there really was HYDRA within S.H.I.E.L.D.
S.H.I.E.L.D. could not bear this accusation.
Coulson quickly began to explain:
"This project has already been approved by the Council.
"Our purpose in researching weapons is not to subvert the World, but to protect the World."
Tony looked at Coulson, scoffing:
"S.H.I.E.L.D. is using the Tesseract to develop weapons of mass destruction to protect the World?
"Protect the World from whom, Russell?"
As intelligent as Tony was, he instantly understood the reason why the Council had agreed to S.H.I.E.L.D. using the Tesseract to develop weapons.
The incident on Sakura Island, Russell and Thor's performance, had frightened them.
Coulson was silent for a moment, then looked at Thor and slowly explained:
"Not just Russell, but Thor as well.
"Russell revealed the existence of numerous divine systems on Earth to the World.
"Since then, the probability and intensity of supernatural events around the globe have been rapidly increasing.
"Governments worldwide urgently need more powerful weapons to maintain order;
"And Thor, Loki's appearance, made us realize the existence of other life in the Universe.
"To protect Earthlings from invasion by other alien civilizations, we also need more powerful weapons."
Thor didn't want to take the blame for the Dark Order's invasion of Earth, so he retorted:
"Earth is one of the Nine Realms; Asgard will protect Earth from invasion.
"On the contrary, it is precisely because you researched the Tesseract and sent coordinates to the Universe that you attracted the Dark Order."
Facing Thor's accusation, Coulson remained silent.
His superior, S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Fury, had been unlucky and unfortunately perished in that massacre.
Leading the overall situation alone, he still lacked some ability.
At this moment, Steve stepped forward to mediate.
"The most urgent task is to figure out the purpose of those two Dark Order members.
"And to find a way to locate them and retrieve the Tesseract."
Initially, he revealed S.H.I.E.L.D.'s purpose in researching the Tesseract because he suspected S.H.I.E.L.D. of harboring ill intentions, aiming to emulate HYDRA and subvert the World.
But since that wasn't the case, he had no objections.
He was just a grunt.
Coulson nodded gratefully to Steve, then began to assign tasks.
"Dr. Banner, you are more knowledgeable about gamma rays; I hope you can help detect the Tesseract's energy fluctuations;
"Tony, S.H.I.E.L.D. has taken over global cameras; we hope Jarvis can help monitor, and once those two aliens are found, immediately sound the alarm."
Dr. Banner and Tony nodded, agreeing.
"Also."
Coulson's tone was a bit embarrassed, but he continued.
"Tony, I hope you can help notify Russell. In critical moments, Russell might be needed."
"Hmm? Coulson, what are you saying?"
Tony's words carried intense sarcasm.
"You researched the Tesseract and built weapons to deal with Russell. Now that you've caused trouble, you expect Russell to help solve it?"
The other attendees at the meeting also couldn't help but look at Coulson.
This was indeed too shameless.
Coulson's face flushed; his skin, after all, was not as thick as his deceased superior, Director Fury.
At this moment, Thor said with a strange expression:
"You probably won't be able to contact Russell for a while; he's not on Earth.
"He's in the Universe, causing trouble for the Dark Order."
Chapter 113 Russell and Thanos Arrive on Earth
Chapter 114: Russell and Thanos Arrive on Earth
"Russell is looking for trouble with the Dark Order? What's going on?"
Everyone couldn't help but exclaim, looking at Thor, awaiting his explanation.
Thor didn't keep them in suspense and said directly:
"Previously, Russell asked Heimdall to investigate the whereabouts of the Dark Order's Master, Thanos.
"More than half a month ago, after receiving news, Russell and Loki set off together to find Thanos."
"But why is Russell looking for the Dark Order?"
"Two reasons."
Thor held up two fingers.
"First, for the Mind Stone;
"Second, I suspect it's to stop the Dark Order and Thanos."
Stop the Dark Order and Thanos?
Everyone's expressions varied.
From the Dark Order's actions in the Universe, it was clear that they were an extremely powerful force.
And Russell, surprisingly, was going to face such a force alone.
Steve couldn't help but feel a surge of respect.
Even though he had never met Russell, at this moment, Russell's image in his mind expanded infinitely.
This was someone who cared for all living beings in the Universe!
Hawkeye Barton, Natasha, Blade, Dr. Banner, and Agent Coulson were all inwardly astonished.
It seemed Russell was even more formidable than they had imagined.
Two of the Dark Order's great generals had easily massacred the S.H.I.E.L.D. secret Base and stolen the Tesseract.
And Russell was going to confront their boss and snatch the Mind Stone from him.
Tony, meanwhile, wondered if Russell was a Master of time management?
He had seen Russell often at the bookstore and Kamar-Taj during this period.
As for the inconspicuous Jane Foster, she remained silent.
She didn't know Russell and had no access to his information.
Just as everyone was reflecting, an alarm sounded, and Jarvis's voice came through.
"Sir, Ebony Maw and Black Dwarf have been detected. Coordinates: New York, Stark Tower."
"Jarvis, bring up the visual."
"Yes, Sir."
On the screen, Ebony Maw and Black Dwarf appeared on the top floor of Stark Tower.
Beside them were many instruments, and… the Tesseract.
The next second, the Tesseract activated, and a blue energy beam shot straight into the sky.
The portal to the other side of the Universe had opened!
The conference room door was suddenly pushed open, and a S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent rushed in frantically.
"Agent Coulson, Tesseract energy fluctuations detected!"
Agent Coulson looked at the screen, his mouth twitching.
"Alright, I know."
"Let's go, everyone."
Tony greeted them, donned his suit, and a portal opened, leading directly to the top of the Tower.
Thor gripped mjolnir, divine power flowing, put on his armor, and followed Tony.
Dr. Banner, Blade, Hawkeye, Black Widow, and Steve, the combat units, also quickly followed.
In an instant, Stark Tower was crowded.
The Avengers and Ebony Maw and Black Dwarf stood on opposite sides, facing each other.
"Ebony Maw, surrender, close the portal, and hand over the Tesseract."
Ebony Maw was unmoved by Steve's shout.
He just quietly looked at the portal above, puzzled.
Why, after so long, had no one come out of it? Did I miscalculate the location?
"Ebony Maw possesses powerful telekinetic abilities, able to control objects for attack and defense.
"Black Dwarf has superhuman strength and indestructible skin."
Hawkeye, who had fought Ebony Maw and Black Dwarfbefore, quickly described their abilities, warning his teammates.
Just as the battle was about to begin.
From the portal, a purple figure suddenly rushed out.
No, it was sent flying out.
Its direction was precisely Stark Tower.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
The entire Stark Tower was instantly pierced through layer by layer.
Moreover, due to the incredibly fast Impact speed, a series of explosions and Impact waves were triggered.
Those on the rooftop also used their abilities to dodge the Impact waves.
Steve, shield in hand, half-crouched, protecting Natasha.
Tony swiped his hand, and two Ring of the Crimson Hellappeared.
Thor and Dr. Banner, meanwhile, treated the Impactwaves as if they were nothing.
The former was confident in his divine body;
The latter couldn't react in time and could only trust Hulk.
Blade and Hawkeye cursed under their breath, falling to the ground and rolling behind a wall.
Just as everyone finally dodged the Impact waves and was about to check the situation.
Bang!
Another figure rushed out of the portal, landing on the rooftop, once again stirring up a wave of Impact.
The two were Thanos and Russell, who were in the midst of a fierce battle.
Russell was a little late because he had just changed his clothes.
His previous clothes had been damaged in the fight.
"Russell, what happened? Why are you here?"
Before Russell could explain, a booming explosion came from the bottom of Stark Tower.
Thanos, brutally smashing away the rubble that was pressing on him, burst out of the Tower.
And the entire Tower, as a result, suffered heavy damage once more, becoming precarious.
Without time to explain to everyone, Russell charged towards Thanos below.
The Mirror Dimension spread out, attempting to pull Thanos into it.
Thanos grinned, shattering the spreading Mirror Dimension with a punch.
Then, he blocked with his arm, catching Russell's punch.
Boom!
A terrifying Impact wave instantly raged out.
As if experiencing a small earthquake, houses throughout the entire street collapsed one after another.
The already precarious Stark Tower could no longer withstand it and collapsed.
At this moment, Thanos was covered in wounds, and his life aura had also significantly decreased.
However, he smiled.
"Your energy is almost exhausted, isn't it? The power of that last punch weakened!"
Russell remained silent.
A faint white energy emanated from his body, sinking into the rubble, selectively healing the injured.
Russell wasn't a pushover, but he wouldn't shirk responsibility.
These people were injured by the aftermath of his battle with Thanos.
Without affecting his combat power, he wouldn't be stingy with energy to help them.
Thanos looked around and instantly understood.
It wasn't that Russell's energy was exhausted, causing his punch to weaken.
Instead, he was mindful of the surroundings and held back his strength at a crucial moment.
But, he wouldn't hold back his strength because of that. He had already been beaten half to death by Russell.
"My Lord, what's wrong?"
At this moment, Ebony Maw and Black Dwarf emerged from the rubble and came behind Thanos.
During the previous Tower collapse, Ebony Maw's telekinetic abilities had protected both of them very well.
The Avengers also came behind Russell.
The two sides formed a standoff, each with their own concerns.
Thanos's side was worried about Thanos's condition;
Russell's side was worried about the damage that the upcoming battle would cause;
Judging by the commotion from Russell and Thanos's previous exchange, if these two exchanged a few more blows, New York City would be reduced to ruins.
Russell tentatively asked:
"Thanos, shall we find another place to continue the battle?"
Thanos decisively shook his head.
Although it was very undignified, it was clear that his life was more important than his dignity.
Chapter 114 The Battle of New York
Chapter 115: The Battle of New York
"Russell, where is Loki? Didn't he come back with you?"
Seeing Russell and Thanos wary of each other, in a stalemate, and temporarily unable to fight, Thor asked about his brother Loki.
He remembered that the two of them had gone together to find the Dark Order.
Now, Russell had returned through the Tesseract's portal, but Loki had not appeared, which made Thor worried.
Hearing the concern in Thor's tone, Russell explained:
"Loki is enjoying himself on Xandar, no need to worry about him."
Thor did remind Russell that there was another group of people he had forgotten on the other side of the Universe.
Russell's divine power stirred, and a radiant white energy shot up into the sky, rushing into the portal.
Before long, people started falling from the portal like dumplings; it was Star-Lord and the others.
After the battle began, Russell had forgotten them in the Mirror Dimension.
Speaking of the Mirror Dimension, Russell remembered a certain master.
As soon as his mental power spread out, Russelldiscovered the Sorcerer Ancient One on the rooftop of the New York Sanctum Sanctorum.
Private call, connected.
Russell: "Sorcerer, do you have a way to trap Thanos in the Mirror Dimension?"
Ancient One: "A single-layer Mirror Dimension is too fragile. It will take time to set up multiple layers."
Russell: "Okay, then I'll trouble you, Sorcerer. I will find a way to stall for time."
Just as Russell was thinking about how to buy time for the Sorcerer Ancient One, Thanos suddenly made his move, heading straight for the Tesseract in the ruins of Stark Tower.
He had found an escape route; as long as he obtained the Tesseract, he could use the power of the Space Stonewithin it to directly teleport and escape.
Just as Thanos was about to succeed, Russell arrived first, blocking him.
Bang!
The two collided, and an invisible wave of air swept out.
Hawkeye Barton, Black Widow Natasha, Captain America Steve, and Blade were all sent flying by the shockwave.
Although Thanos was intercepted by Russell, he did not stop.
After four major rounds of combat, he had realized he was no match for Russell. Now, seizing the Space Stone was his only chance to survive.
Thanos erupted with full power, throwing hundreds of punches in the blink of an eye. Moreover, his punching speed, strength, and the energy he was using were constantly increasing.
Russell, helpless, despite wanting to control the intensity of the battle, could only keep up with Thanos, continuously increasing his energy output.
Hundreds of collisions, each like a clap of thunder from a clear sky, exploding with deafening roars.
Although Russell used his talent [Energy Absorption] to suppress the battle's aftermath as much as possible, the scattered Impact still continuously ravaged the nearby buildings.
The Earth, bearing the brunt of Thanos's force, also constantly groaned. The entire New York seemed to have experienced an earthquake.
"We can't let them keep fighting like this, or the entire New York will be destroyed. We have to find a way to stop them."
Steve used his shield to withstand the Impact, approached the battlefield, and shouted loudly, hoping everyone could think of a solution.
Tony said nothing. A portal with golden sparks appeared in front of him, then he pushed with both hands, and the portal quickly moved towards Thanos.
Tony's plan was to teleport Thanos to an uninhabited area.
Seeing this, Ebony Maw's telekinesis swept up rubble and rebar, attacking Tony, intending to interrupt Tony's spellcasting.
Thor quickly stood in front of Tony, his hammer swinging, electricity flashing, pulverizing and sending all the rubble and rebar flying.
At this moment, facing Tony's portal, Thanos had no choice but to spare a punch.
Energy surged with the force of the punch. In an instant, the space to Thanos's side shattered, and the portal, with its flickering sparks, slowly dissipated.
But Thanos would also pay the price for this punch.
Russell seized the opportunity, grabbed Thanos's single hand with both hands, and pulled hard.
At the same time, a portal appeared behind him, rapidly rushing towards the two of them.
At a crucial moment, Black Dwarf, who was wrestling with Hulk, broke free from Hulk, rushed out from the side, and collided with Russell, trying to send Russell flying.
However, nothing happened.
Black Dwarf's Impact kinetic energy was instantly absorbed by Russell.
The next moment, the portal swept through.
Russell and Thanos disappeared from their original spot, while Black Dwarf was cut in half, split into two.
On the New York battlefield, Russell and Thanossuddenly vanished. Ebony Maw was left alone, facing the encirclement, and was quickly overwhelmed.
Left with no choice, Ebony Maw used his telekinesis to control the stones beneath his feet, wanting to fly into the air to reduce the simultaneous attacks he was receiving.
Just then, a crimson energy came from behind, aiming directly for Ebony Maw's back.
Ebony Maw waved his hand, and telekinesis surged, dispersing the crimson energy.
The next second, a web-line wrapped around his feet, slamming him hard to the ground.
Before Ebony Maw could get up, a sharp Blade was held to his throat.
Wanda, Gwen, and Quicksilver also arrived at the battlefield.
Thor also arrived in time, placing his mjolnir directly on Ebony Maw's chest, pinning him firmly to the ground, crushing any thought of resistance.
A certain bald Sorcerer on a certain rooftop silently stopped casting.
She had just been playing a minor role.
"What happened here? First, a portal appeared in the sky, and then it seemed like a major battle took place.
"Even the entire New York was affected, like it experienced a major earthquake."
Gwen looked at the group of people and the surrounding ruins.
She, Wanda, and Pietro had just been helping other classmates on campus, which was why they were a bit late.
As is well known, campuses are densely populated areas and are severely affected in disasters.
Tony took over emergency command:
"We'll explain all this later.
"Hulk, calm down first;
"Now, Captain, Barton, Natasha, Blade, you contact S.H.I.E.L.D. personnel to come and take charge of rescue operations;
"Gwen, Pietro, please cooperate and help out;
"Thor, Wanda, you and I will go support Russell."
The Guardians, who were also playing minor roles, walked over, with Star-Lord initiating the conversation.
"Hey, guys. We can also help with the rescue efforts.
"But, can you give us some Water and food first? We haven't eaten in days."
Tony looked at them and nodded.
Although the six Guardians had various appearances.
Five of them clearly didn't look like Earthlings.
But Tony remembered that Russell had brought them, so they weren't enemies.
At this point, Thor asked about Ebony Maw, whom he had made:
"What about him? You can't control his abilities, only I can."
Tony's lips curled into a smile: "That's not necessarily true."
Crack crack ~
Space twisted, and a shattered mirror appeared in front of them.
Thor understood, grabbed Ebony Maw, and flung him, trapping him in the Mirror Dimension.
Having done all this, Thor roared to the sky:
"Heimdall, do you know where Russell is?"
Before long, Heimdall's voice came down from the sky.
"Solar System, Mars."
Thor pulled Tony and Wanda over: "Use the Bifrost Bridge to send us there."
"Me too."
Nebula and Gamora spoke in unison and moved closer to Thor.
The next moment, a seven-colored rainbow light pierced through the void, enveloping them.
Chapter 115 The Death of Thanos
Chapter 116: The Death of Thanos
Mars.
At this moment, Russell and Thanos's battle intensified.
More precisely, Russell was beating Thanos, and he was getting more and more into it.
In space, due to the zero-gravity environment and no place to dissipate force,
Thanos would be sent flying with just a slight collision due to action and reaction forces.
Back on Earth, Russell had to hold back and was constrained because he needed to control the battle's scope.
As a result, he had never truly enjoyed fighting.
A seven-colored Bifrost Bridge light streaked across, and Thor and the others emerged.
Before Thor and the others was a massive crater, tens of kilometers in diameter.
Violent tremors continuously emanated from the bottom of the crater.
The crater's diameter and depth were also constantly increasing.
Looking towards the center of the crater, Russell was astride Thanos, repeatedly punching him in the face.
Thanos, meanwhile, protected his head with both hands, blocking Russell's attacks.
The scene looked quite comical, like two thugs fighting on the street.
Yet, the commotion was terrifying!
The force of each of Russell's blows was channeled through Thanos's body into the ground.
The Earth's crust and magma layers were shaken.
Rumble!
Suddenly, an underground magma erupted from the center of the crater, engulfing Thanos and Russell.
The magma gushing from underground carried terrifying impact and high temperatures.
Russell and Thanos were completely unaffected.
Their physical bodies were virtually indestructible, possessing extremely high resistance to various attacks.
But Russell was still very unhappy.
Another one of his outfits was ruined.
"Russell, do you really need our support?"
Thor asked Tony.
He felt that if they had arrived any slower, Thanos would have been beaten to death by Russell.
Tony spread his hands:
"I also don't know why they were evenly matched in New York, but it turned out like this on Mars."
"Thanos has never been Russell's opponent.
"From Sanctuary I to outer space, and then here.
"Their battle has been going on for several days.
"In these past few days, Thanos hasn't even injured Russell once."
Nebula said in a deep voice.
Tony looked at Nebula in confusion: "Then why on Earth..."
Suddenly, a nearby volcano erupted, interrupting Tony.
Tony opened a Mirror Dimension, signaling for them to enter and take cover.
After a brief thought, Tony reacted.
Although the brief skirmish on Earth had almost destroyed all of New York, this was already the result of Russell holding back.
No longer concerned with Russell and Thanos's battle, Tony inquired about the course of events.
"How did you end up on the other side of the portal?"
Nebula shook her head: "Unclear. After we led Russell to find Thanos, the two of them started fighting.
"Soon, Sanctuary I was damaged by their battle's aftermath, and they moved the battlefield into the Universe.
"They continued fighting in space; during this process, Russell also destroyed all of Thanos's warships.
"Much later, a portal suddenly opened. Thanos fled into the portal, and Russell followed.
"You know what happened next."
Gamora added: "Earlier, on our way to find Thanos, he said he had something to attend to, which might be related to this."
Tony frowned, secretly feeling fortunate.
It seemed the timing was truly coincidental.
If Russell hadn't destroyed Thanos's fleet, Earth would now be facing an alien warship invasion.
Just then, a figure walked out from the Russell in the center of the battlefield.
Spell: Ekron Form!
Taking out a set of clothes and putting them on, Russell's clone slowly flew towards the others.
"Tony, I also wanted to ask you.
"Why did a portal suddenly appear, almost allowing Thanos to escape?
"Is S.H.I.E.L.D. researching the Tesseract, which attracted Thanos's subordinates, Ebony Maw and Black Dwarf?"
Tony nodded.
"Russell, how did you know?"
"A guess. Seeing Ebony Maw, Black Dwarf, and the Tesseract, it's not hard to deduce what happened."
Russell was speechless.
Firstly, unlike the original plot where Loki fell off the Bifrost Bridge and met Thanos,
this version of Loki was perfectly fine, continuing as Asgard's second prince and Sorcerer Supreme of Kamar-Taj, having never met Thanos.
Secondly, the timing didn't match.
It wasn't even 2012 yet, the time for the Chitauri invasion of New York.
Thor's gaze went back and forth between Russell's clone and his main body for a few glances, then he teased:
"Russell, nice physique. I always thought you were similar to Loki when you wore your robes. Now it seems you're much stronger than Loki."
Russell glanced at himself fighting Thanos, then silently averted his gaze.
An eyesore!
However, this situation couldn't be awkward.
Russell raised an eyebrow and patted Thor's arm.
"Thor, you're not bad either."
Tony joined the conversation, teasing the two:
"How about you two form a group and debut? I'll invest in you."
Thor laughed heartily:
"That's not impossible, but Tony, do you want to join us?
"Oh, and Steve, his physique looks great too."
Russell, Thor, and Tony chatted on the spot, as if this wasn't the edge of an intense battlefield but a casual gathering.
The other three, meanwhile, were intently watching the battlefield.
Thanos firmly held Gamora and Nebula's attention.
Although they had seen similar scenes many times in the past few days,
the sight of Thanos getting beaten still seemed novel to them.
As for Wanda...
"Wanda, what are you looking at? Do you want to eat something first? It's probably going to take a few more days of fighting."
Russell's voice roused Wanda.
Inside the Mirror Dimension, tables and chairs were already set up, and food was prepared.
Nebula and Gamora ate while watching Russellunilaterally beat Thanos.
Russell, Thor, and Tony were enthusiastically discussing their group debut plans.
Outside the Mirror Dimension, Russell's main body was relentlessly striking Thanos, slowly and steadily accumulating damage.
As Russell's punches landed, the ground shook, volcanoes erupted, and tectonic plates cracked. The entire Mars was a scene of apocalypse.
If not for the Mind Stone's blessing, strengthening his will and elevating his spirit,
Thanos would have long been unconscious under Russell's continuous heavy blows.
But even so, Thanos had lost the ability to resist, only able to passively block.
When he was on Earth earlier, he was already half-dead; seizing the Tesseract was his final counterattack.
In a flash, several days passed.
Thanos's life force continuously dwindled, like a flickering candle in the wind.
These past few days, he had repeatedly sought opportunities to break through, but Russell had always stopped him.
Bang!
Once again, Thanos was knocked to the ground by Russell.
This time, even with the Mind Stone's power continuously surging and his mental will constantly rising, Thanoscouldn't stand up.
And Russell had also stopped, standing quietly not far away.
In a trance, Thanos understood that his life had reached its end.
Chapter 116 Harvest: Mind Gem and Space Gem
Chapter 117: Harvest: Mind Stone + Space Stone
"Thanos is dead?"
Although they had almost witnessed Russell kill Thanos, Nebula and Gamora still found it somewhat unbelievable.
"I'm sorry, my daughters. I was too harsh on you before."
The Mind Stone glowed yellow on Thanos's body.
At this moment, Thanos's mental will once again transcended his physical body.
But his purpose was not to fight, but to deliver his last words.
"I heard you've made some friends recently. Start a new life with them, Gamora."
As Thanos finished his last words, the Mind Stone's light gradually faded.
Gently prying open Thanos's tightly clenched right hand, Russell retrieved the Mind Stone from it.
Unlike the Power Stone, which tests the user's physical fitness upon first contact, the Mind Stone showed no reaction upon first contact.
Or rather, the Mind Stone's test of its user is subtle and gradual.
Russell could sense a mysterious power constantly trying to erode and influence his mind from the shadows.
The source of this power was precisely the Mind Stone.
However, every time this power was about to enter Russell's spiritual World, it quickly retreated, as if encountering a terrifying beast.
Confirming that the Mind Stone's power could not enter his spiritual World, Russell ignored it, flipped his hand, and put away the Mind Stone.
Then, he stepped aside and stopped the other three who wanted to come forward, leaving the space near Thanos's body to Gamora and Nebula.
Although Gamora and Nebula had repeatedly vowed to kill Thanos, when Thanos truly lay dead before them, they showed no joy.
Gamora slowly knelt beside Thanos, lowering her head to hide the tears in her eyes from everyone.
Nebula stood there, wanting to go forward but not moving.
"What's wrong with them?"
Tony asked in a low voice.
After learning about Thanos and his Dark Order's actions in the Universe, he had assumed that the Guardians of the Galaxy were all Avengers whose loved ones had been killed by Thanos.
Now that their great revenge was achieved, even if they cried tears of joy, they shouldn't have such expressions.
"Have you forgotten what Thanos said before he died?"
Russell also reminded him in a low voice.
Tony fell silent. However, with Thanos's actions, it wasn't surprising that he was abandoned by all.
"What about Nebula?"
"Nebula too."
"Mr. Russell, since you have killed Thanos, I will surrender myself to you. Do with me as you please, kill or flay."
Nebula recovered from her emotions about Thanos's death and looked at Russell, saying.
"No!"
Gamora exclaimed, quickly standing up and blocking Nebula.
Thor, Tony, and Wanda's gazes flickered between Russell, Gamora, and Nebula.
Could there be some hidden secret among these three?
Thanks to Nebula's final addition of 'kill or flay, do with me as you please,' Thor and the others didn't misunderstand.
This time, it was Russell's turn to be silent.
He had been undecided about whether to kill Nebula.
"Let's talk about it later, we'll go back first."
Russell opened a portal, signaling for everyone to follow.
He hadn't forgotten that in New York, there was still a Space Stone waiting for him to pick up.
New York, Stark Tower.
At this time, Stark Tower and its surrounding area had been cordoned off.
Experts and scholars from various fields were gathered around the Space Stone device, studying it.
The outer perimeter was guarded by the U.S. Military.
As for S.H.I.E.L.D., at this moment, they were probably still being held accountable.
"Stop!"
As the portal opened and Russell and the others emerged, nearby soldiers raised their guns and aimed.
"Put them down, move aside."
Russell's voice was calm, but it contained an undeniable power.
Due to the huge difference in life levels, the soldiers were completely unable to resist Russell's psychic abilities. They all followed Russell's instructions, put down their guns, and stepped aside.
The leading Military officer noticed the commotion here and quickly looked over.
When he clearly saw Russell and Thor, his expression changed drastically.
He had heard of their great names and deeds, but due to his duty, he had to brace himself and step forward.
"You're asleep."
Before he could speak, Russell said again.
As his voice fell, the soldiers and scholars in the field all found a place and fell asleep.
Tony and the others looked at Russell in surprise; this was the first time they knew Russell had such an ability.
Tony looked at Russell's direction and suddenly understood.
"Russell, are you going to take S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Tesseract?"
Russell shook his head.
"No. This isn't S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Tesseract, it's my Tesseract, my spoils of war taken from the Dark Order.
"As for S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Tesseract, let them find the Dark Order themselves."
Thor nodded in agreement:
"That's right. If we're being precise, the Tesseract belongs to Asgard. My father, Odin, left it in Norway a thousand years ago."
As he spoke, Russell had already arrived at the Space Stone device.
Divine power flowed, cracking the device that Thor and the U.S. Military were helpless against, and he retrieved the Tesseract from it.
At the same time, his mental power probed through the portal in the sky.
Russell was surprised to find that the U.S. Military not only wanted to seize his spoils of war, the Space Stone.
They also salvaged the wreckage of the Dark Order's battleship that he had destroyed, without his permission.
How rude!
Divine power surged, and the scientific expedition team on the other side of the Universe, along with the wreckage of the Dark Order's battleship, all fell through the portal.
The scientific expedition team landed to one side.
The wreckage of the Dark Order's battleship continuously fell from the portal, piling up outside New York City.
Pointing at the wreckage that was quickly forming a city-like pile, Russell casually said to Tony.
"Tony, those are my spoils of war too.
"Help me handle them, don't let me suffer a loss.
"It would be best to set up a company or something, under the name of Kamar-Taj.
"In the future, the sorcerers of Kamar-Taj must also keep up with the times."
These things, while useless to Russell.
But others couldn't just appropriate them without his permission.
Respect is mutual.
Russell didn't believe that with so many cameras in New York, not a single one captured him and Thanos emerging from the portal.
Tony remained silent; Russell spoke easily, but he wasn't the one doing the work.
How could he not know that dealing with the government was always a troublesome affair?
Tony tapped his earpiece: "Jarvis."
"Yes, sir."
"Tell Agent Coulson that the alien battleship wreckage outside New York City is Russell's spoils of war. Have S.H.I.E.L.D. personnel watch over it.
"If anyone moves those things without Russell's permission, Russell will be very angry."
"Okay, sir. An email has been sent to Agent Coulson."
In a flash, Tony had dumped this troublesome matter onto S.H.I.E.L.D.
"Oh, is Agent Coulson in charge of S.H.I.E.L.D. now? Where is Fury?" Russell asked curiously.
Tony's tone was a bit somber, after all, they had known each other.
"He died in the battle when Ebony Maw invaded the S.H.I.E.L.D. secret Base."
"No wonder those people have become so rude."
Russell mumbled, pondering whether to do another big deed to establish his authority.
Chapter 117 World Security Council Meeting
Chapter 118: World Security Council Meeting
Washington, S.H.I.E.L.D. Triskelion Headquarters, Conference Room.
Agent Coulson and Hill were discussing how to deal with the accusations from the World Security Council, as well as the U.S. Congress and the New York State Assembly.
Someone had to take responsibility for the Battle of New York.
But the two sides of the great battle were:
One was Russell, who could destroy cities and islands at will;
The other was the Master of the Dark Order, the overlord of the Universe.
In comparison, S.H.I.E.L.D., which was responsible for safeguarding and researching the Tesseract, became the easiest target.
Ding-dong!
Coulson raised his hand, signaling Hill to wait a moment, as his tablet rang.
"A keyword was triggered; it's news related to Russell."
Noticing Hill's slight displeasure, Coulson quickly explained and shared the email with Hill.
"Agent Hill, what do you think? Russell wants S.H.I.E.L.D.to handle the alien battleship wreckage."
Coulson's voice was a bit excited.
He had just glanced at it via satellite; the battleship wreckage was piled up like mountains outside New York City.
The email content wasn't long, and Hill scanned it in an instant.
"This is good news."
Hill first characterized the matter, then calmly analyzed:
"Currently, S.H.I.E.L.D. is being challenged by the Council, Congress, and the State Assembly, and its situation is very unfavorable. The right to dispose of the alien battleship wreckage is a very big bargaining chip."
"All countries need battleship wreckage to research alien technology. This contains huge profits; just giving a small piece to New York can create countless job opportunities."
"If handled properly, we can relieve the pressure from the Council and the New York State Assembly."
"However, this would cause S.H.I.E.L.D. to offend Congress and the Military. They originally regarded this battleship wreckage as something within their grasp."
Coulson's excited expression froze, and he gradually calmed down.
"Report it to the Council. This is already the best option."
Just a few minutes after the news was reported, an emergency World Security Council video conference was convened.
The speed was much faster than Coulson and Hill had imagined.
"Agent Coulson, Agent Hill, please confirm if the news is true. Mr. Russell has other arrangements for the alien battleship wreckage."
At the beginning of the meeting, the representatives from England and France could not sit still and asked excitedly.
"The news came from Tony Stark. Surveillance footage showed Russell appearing with Tony Stark in New Yorkwhen the news broke. Lip-reading comparison also confirms this information."
Coulson replied unhurriedly.
Upon hearing this, except for the U.S. representative, the other four Council representatives all beamed with joy.
U.S. representative Pierce, on the other hand, wore a grim expression.
If Russell hadn't interfered, the U.S. could have monopolized the alien battleship wreckage due to its geographical advantage.
At most, under pressure from all sides, they might concede a little, but they would still definitely hold the lion's share.
But with Russell's intervention, it would be very difficult for the U.S. to monopolize the lion's share.
Unless they wanted to challenge the Russell Mage, whose danger level had been repeatedly raised.
Pierce, with a dark face, tried to compensate from other aspects:
"Then did Russell Mage say how to dispose of this alien battleship wreckage? Also, the New York City area was severely damaged in the Battle of New York; we hope S.H.I.E.L.D. can help get an explanation."
"New York is severely damaged and needs reconstruction. Eastern Country can provide funds and personnel to help with this, so there's no need to trouble Russell Mage."
"If not for Russell Mage, perhaps the entire Earth would be in the midst of an alien invasion right now."
The Eastern Country representative was the first to refute, and the representatives of the other three countries echoed him.
Pierce's goal was nothing more than to gain more shares by playing the victim.
They would not easily give Pierce this opportunity.
"Russell Mage hasn't made arrangements for how to dispose of this alien battleship wreckage. He only instructed S.H.I.E.L.D. to guard it and not allow anyone to secretly misappropriate it."
Coulson explained.
His purpose in reporting was to exert pressure on the U.S. Military through the Council, lest anyone harbor ill intentions.
Pierce's eyes flickered, and he uncharacteristically cooperated with S.H.I.E.L.D.
"Alright, I will inform Congress and the Military of the meeting's content. Coulson, clarify Russell Mage's arrangements for this battleship wreckage as soon as possible."
"Understood, Director Pierce."
Coulson nodded in agreement.
Seeing this, Pierce was the first to go offline.
The other four representatives nodded amicably to Coulson before going offline.
A moment later.
Knock knock ~
Pierce knocked on the door of Coulson's office.
As a former Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., although Pierce had been promoted to a member of the Security Council, his office was still in the S.H.I.E.L.D. Triskelion Headquarters.
"Director Pierce."
Looking at his old superior's old superior, Nick Fury, Coulson lowered his head somewhat guiltily.
Since his promotion to the Security Council, Pierce had silently supported S.H.I.E.L.D.'s work for many years.
But just now, what S.H.I.E.L.D. had done was undoubtedly uncooperative, even backstabbing this old big brother.
Looking at the guilty Coulson, Pierce smiled kindly.
"Phil, work is work, life is life, you don't need to apologize. I came to ask how Nick Fury is doing."
"Director Fury is in very bad condition and is still undergoing emergency treatment."
Coulson did not inform Pierce of Nick Fury's death.
S.H.I.E.L.D. possessed two resurrection technologies, and Nick Fury could still be resurrected.
If no one knew, he could even continue to serve as Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. after resurrection.
"Is that so? Then please convey my concern."
Pierce nodded thoughtfully, then turned and left, reminding him casually before exiting.
"Coulson, arrange for Agents to guard the alien battleship wreckage as soon as possible. I'm worried that someone in the Military might do something foolish."
It seemed his visit was merely a detour to inquire about his old subordinate's health.
And just after Pierce left, S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Brock Rumlow (Crossbones) knocked on Coulson's door and came in to report on his work.
"Agent Rumlow, you will lead the team to guard the alien battleship wreckage."
"Be careful not to easily conflict with the Military, but also don't let anyone take anything, understand?"
"Understood, Agent Coulson."
Hearing the voice from Coulson's office, Pierce secretly smiled.
'It seems Nick Fury is dead. And this Coulson is still too naive. A simple psychological suggestion can easily manipulate him.'
He and Brock Rumlow were both HYDRA members.
He was even one of HYDRA's leaders.
During the meeting, he uncharacteristically supported S.H.I.E.L.D. guarding the alien battleship wreckage because he saw a profit to be made.
It's easy to guard against outsiders, but hard to guard against an insider.
Within S.H.I.E.L.D., there were not only S.H.I.E.L.D.Agents but also HYDRA Agents!
After explaining the various matters, Coulson took Nick Fury's exclusive Director's private jet and flew to New York.
He was going to stake out Russell at the bookstore to ask him how to dispose of the alien battleship wreckage.
Chapter 118 Russell, he went to see a psychologist.
Chapter 119: Russell, he went to see a Doctor.
Nick Fury's private jet, also a Quinjet, is a combat weapon unique to S.H.I.E.L.D..
Almost all S.H.I.E.L.D. field Agents are familiar with it, and Coulson is no exception.
But this time, riding in the Quinjet gave Coulson a different feeling.
This feeling was called responsibility.
Stepping out of the Quinjet, Coulson walked straight to Russell's Bookstore.
To Coulson's knowledge, only a few blocks remained intact during the Battle of New York.
The block where Russell Bookstore was located was one of them.
This should not be a coincidence.
Walking into the bookstore, Coulson looked at the front desk.
Good, lucky.
According to S.H.I.E.L.D.'s observations, when Gwen was at the bookstore, Russell was usually there too.
"Gwen, hello. Is Russell at the bookstore? I need to ask him about the alien warship wreckage," he said.
Gwen's gaze shifted from the sheet music in her hand to Coulson, and she replied, "Russell? He's not at the bookstore. He went to see a Doctor. He probably won't be back until evening."
"Alright, I'll wait for him here."
Coulson nodded, found a seat, and began to ponder quietly.
Russell went to see a Doctor?
This was not good news.
If Russell had any psychological problems, and got emotional, the entire East Coast might be gone.
When Russell pushed open the door and entered Yao's Home, Sorcerer Ancient One was slumped on the sofa, watching a movie.
On the coffee table in front of her were pistachios and happy fat water.
While cracking pistachios, Sorcerer Ancient One asked, "What made you think of coming here to find me, Russell?"
Sitting down next to Sorcerer Ancient One, Russell sank into the sofa, lazily saying, "I have a few questions I want to ask you, Sorcerer."
"Is it related to Thanos?"
"Yes."
Russell reached out, took a few pistachios, and said while removing the shells.
"I'm wondering if Thanos's ideas originated from himself or from the Mind Stone."
"Are you worried about the drawbacks of the Mind Stone?"
Chewing and swallowing the pistachio in his mouth, Russell asked in confusion, "I heard that Thanos is also a learned scholar. I don't understand why he proposed such a nearly foolish idea."
In Russell's memory before transmigration, Thanos had a top-tier panel with all attributes at 7, except for speed.
Intelligence 7, that was beyond super genius, an almost omniscient existence.
"Why do you say that, Russell?"
Putting down the happy fat water in her hand, Ancient One asked curiously.
A small portal to the refrigerator on the seventh floor of the bookstore appeared.
Russell took out two bottles of coconut water from it, drank one bottle heartily, and then declared with conviction:
"In reality, randomly killing half the population, regardless of race, status, gender, age, infirmity, or disability, would probably send the other half to see a Doctor.
"How many people can withstand the grief of losing half their relatives and friends? At that time, all survivors will fall into grief. Civilizational development will also stagnate or even regress.
"Moreover, from individuals to organizations, countries, civilizations, and even the Universe and Multiverse, all have their birth, aging, sickness, and death, and are destined to reach their end.
"Just like the sunrise and sunset, instead of trying to stop it, it's better to quietly appreciate it."
Ancient One reached for the coconut water and continued to ask, "What you said, Russell, makes a lot of sense. How did Thanos answer you?"
Russell shook his head and complained, "He didn't. I was afraid I couldn't win an argument with him, so I didn't say anything to him.
"After all, he's so old, has experienced so many things, and read so many books.
"If I lost the debate, wouldn't I lose a lot of face?
"On the contrary, if I just took action, I could easily handle him.
"After he dies, no matter what I say, he won't be able to refute it."
Ancient One was speechless, silently drinking the coconut water.
Hmm. It tasted quite good. I wonder how it would be for making tea.
After some thought, Sorcerer Ancient One offered an explanation:
"The Mind Stone does have the side effect of influencing the user's mind, but it won't implant a certain viewpoint into the user out of thin air.
"Thanos's views likely originated from himself, and then were continuously deepened by the Mind Stone, eventually leading him to believe them implicitly."
Russell nodded, deep in thought.
"Then it seems the Mind Stone can only be kept by me. It's too dangerous. I was originally thinking of giving one to each member of my Sorcerer Supreme Team once I collected three Infinity Stones."
Hearing Russell's outrageous words, Ancient One fell silent again.
Have the Infinity Stones become so common?
And one for each person.
Ancient One reached out, pointing to the empty bottle, indicating for Russell to get her another bottle of coconut water.
She needed a few more sips to calm down.
Russell got another bottle for Ancient One from the refrigerator, then asked,
"Sorcerer, I currently have the Space Stone, the Power Stone, and the future Reality Stone in my possession.
"What do you think of giving the Space Stone to Tony, the Power Stone to Loki, and the Reality Stone to Wanda?
"How does that sound?"
"That's quite reasonable, but Loki and the Power Stonemight not be a good match."
Ancient One took a sip of coconut water, nodded in agreement, and then explained.
"Wanda's Chaos Magic itself has the ability to modify reality, and it can combine powerfully with the Reality Stone;
"Tony's new element structure for the Arc Reactor was inspired by the energy of the Tesseract (Space Stone). Using the Space Stone as a link can better combine technology and magic.
"But, Loki?"
"I think Loki and the Power Stone are destined."
Russell replied to Sorcerer Ancient One with a serious expression:
"When Loki and I went to Morag to search for the Power Stone, while we were staking out Ronan,
"Loki piloted the spaceship, randomly found a temple to land, and it happened to be where the Power Stone was located.
"We just had a bit of bad luck, and someone had already taken it."
Ancient One nodded with a strange expression, accepting Russell's explanation.
Can that be called destiny?
That's having a connection but no fate!
Mentioning Loki, Russell remembered what he had promised Loki and brought it up to Ancient One.
"By the way, Sorcerer, Loki wants to learn time-related magic. Can you lend him your collection of books to read?"
Ancient One opened a portal and took out a scroll from it.
"Time-related magic? Yes.
"However, there's one thing to note, remember to tell him that time-related magic can affect the surrounding spacetime.
"When casting such magic, be sure to pay attention to the range to avoid affecting spacetime stability and opening Multiverse channels."
"Understood. I will tell Loki, Sorcerer."
After speaking, Russell was about to get up and go find Loki.
"Wait, Russell, watch the movie before you go."
Sorcerer Ancient One called out to Russell.
"Russell, you should learn to slow down.
"Extraordinary abilities can help you solve problems quickly.
"But often, for every problem solved, another problem will appear.
"Problems are endless; you cannot neglect life."
I'm sorry, I'm stuck writing. The third update will probably be around midnight.
Chapter 119 Undercurrents, Skrulls and Hydra
Chapter 120: Undercurrents, Skrulls and HYDRA
Sorcerer Ancient One, why have you started speaking in riddles?
Puzzled, Russell accompanied Ancient One to watch the movie'Snowpiercer'.
Then, he displayed astonishing efficiency.
A portal opened, leading directly to Xandar, where he found Loki.
He handed Ancient One's collection of books to him, gave him instructions, and brought Loki back to Earth.
Although he had been enjoying his time on Xandar and was reluctant to leave, Loki wanted to return and show off his Nova Empire national 禮 to Thor.
Another portal opened, and Russell returned to the bookstore.
He saw Coulson, who had been waiting for a long time.
'So that's what Ancient One meant.'
'There's always work to be done, but when there's a chance to slack off, you should take it decisively.'
'If I had returned any later, Coulson might have left, and the matter could have been postponed until tomorrow.'
"Good evening, Coulson. Is there anything I can help you with? The bookstore is about to close, you know."
Russell said playfully, greeting Coulson.
He had just hacked S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Tesseract not long ago, so he couldn't just kick him out.
"Russell, S.H.I.E.L.D. wants to discuss with you what to do with the alien battleship wreckage."
Coulson perked up, forcing a smile.
S.H.I.E.L.D. had been extremely busy recently, and as the de facto acting Director, he was under immense pressure.
"Alien battleship wreckage? Didn't I give it to Tony to handle? You should talk to him."
Russell deflected.
Various governments might care about the alien battleship wreckage, but he didn't.
The word 'wreckage' was enough to explain everything.
Coulson looked helpless.
Although he hadn't gone to Tony yet, he knew Tony's response would be exactly the same as Russell's.
"Russell, it was Tony who handed this matter over to S.H.I.E.L.D."
"Oh, I see."
Russell pondered for a moment before making a decision.
"Then I'll make a few requests, and S.H.I.E.L.D. can handle the rest as they see fit."
"First, compensation for New York City citizens. Those who survived my battle with Thanos and have the glowing white runes on their hands. Their medical expenses, lost wages, and some asset losses, please verify them and compensate them to the maximum."
"Second, don't forget Kamar-Taj's share."
Gwen, who was listening nearby, asked, "Russell, what about those who died?"
"Gwen, you know I have good and evil vision."
"And it wasn't me who brought Thanos here."
"Someone opened a portal through the Tesseract, and Thanos escaped here."
Gwen fell silent.
These past few days, she had participated in many rescue efforts and knew that no one with the glowing white runes on their hands had died or been seriously injured.
This glowing white rune was also called the God's Blessing.
But similarly, there were many people without runes.
Injured, even dead.
Now, people with and without runes on the back of their hands have even formed two opposing groups.
If, again, there's differential compensation—
"Russell, doing this will completely divide the survivors."
Russell fell into thought.
He hadn't considered that.
But the World is inherently unfair, and there are many instances of differential treatment.
Can't bad people be treated differently?
"Gwen, I know this World isn't black and white, but a delicate shade of gray."
"But in fact, this glowing white rune isn't just for good people. Ordinary people, people who aren't too bad, they all have it."
Pausing, Russell continued.
"People with runes and people without runes, they should naturally be two separate groups."
Coulson interjected at this point, agreeing with Russelland making a guarantee:
"Gwen, Russell is right."
"I heard that the New York Police Department is secretly preparing to register those without the glowing white runes and mark them for special attention."
"Also, S.H.I.E.L.D. will be careful not to cause widespread unrest."
"Hmm."
Gwen nodded, saying nothing more.
She believed that with S.H.I.E.L.D. being careful and her looking after things, there shouldn't be any problems.
"Russell, if there are no other conditions, then I'll take my leave."
Coulson, seeing that it was getting late, offered to leave.
He still had a lot of things to do, and if he didn't hurry, he'd be working all night again.
"Coulson, one more thing, tell the others."
Russell stopped Coulson.
He remembered those impolite people, and his tone involuntarily grew cold.
"I don't understand management and business, but I understand killing."
Coulson's expression became serious, and he nodded solemnly.
"Understood, I will inform them."
Russell's meaning was clear: it was a warning to those people not to play petty games with him.
If he was in a bad mood, he would overturn the table.
Afterward, Coulson, with a heavy heart, turned and left.
Coulson now felt immense pressure.
His tone when he guaranteed Russell and Gwen earlier was very firm, as if it would be easy to achieve.
But given the situation in the United States, it was not so easy to ease the conflict between the two groups.
Especially since the citizens of New York City were currently holding their breath, like a powder keg, ready to explode at any moment.
I miss you, Director Fury.
Coulson decided to put Director Fury's resurrection ceremony on the agenda.
Whoever wants to be the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. can have it; he didn't want it anymore.
"Chieftain, Director Fury should be dead. No one on Earthknows about our existence anymore."
"Can the regulations on our people be relaxed a bit?"
"Can the plan also be put on the agenda?"
In an ordinary manor, an extraordinary conversation was taking place.
"Gravik, be patient."
"We still haven't fully understood the superhuman powers on Earth."
"Moreover, Carol (Captain Marvel) promised to help us find a suitable home."
"After Director Fury's death, she should return once; let's see what she says first."
"Yes, Chieftain."
The man named Gravik (Skrulls) nodded outwardly, but inwardly, he was roaring.
Patience! Patience!
Damn Talos (Skrulls), I'm tired of waiting!
"Director Fury should be dead. This is truly good news."
In a secret meeting room, a secret video conference of HYDRA members was being held.
The host was Pierce.
"Thank you all for your hard work during this time."
"Cut off any exposed clues and hide those that haven't been exposed."
"After this period, things will get better."
On the screen, a figure spoke:
"Tony Stark has tracked down the Winter Soldier. Should we abandon the Winter Soldier too?"
Pierce hesitated.
The Winter Soldier was HYDRA's sharpest blade.
"Abandon him. Dr. Zola, please erase the traces on the internet."
The figure on the screen was also one of HYDRA's leaders, Dr. Zola.
He joined HYDRA during World War II and was Red Skull's right-hand man.
After the war, he feigned surrender and later joined S.H.I.E.L.D.
After being diagnosed with terminal illness in 1972, he transferred his consciousness to a giant computer from the same era.
One could say that he was a practitioner of the slogan 'Flesh is weak, machine is ascension'.
Chapter 120 Enjoying Life
Chapter 121: Enjoying Life
The next morning.
Early in the morning, Russell got up to prepare breakfast.
He decided to listen to the Doctor and slow down to enjoy life.
Although he had already enjoyed half a month on Xandar.
But after that, he fought Thanos for nearly ten days, without rest.
On the dining table.
A serving of handmade shrimp rice noodles + a plate of steamed spare ribs + 4 crystal shrimp dumplings + 3 beef balls + 3 pork balls + rich and nutritious soy milk.
This was for Russell, delicious and nutritious.
Egg sandwich + milk.
This was for Gwen, simple and nutritious.
"Russell," Gwen's voice softly sounded, "Did you take the wrong one?"
Pointing at the breakfast in front of them, Gwen stared directly at Russell.
Russell lightly tapped the table, a magical spark flashed, and an identical breakfast appeared on the dining table.
He was just being playful, teasing Gwen.
"I was just worried you wouldn't be used to it."
"That's more like it." Gwen rolled her eyes.
She suspected Russell was deliberately retaliating for her kicking him out last night to patrol New York.
"By the way, Gwen, do you have an early class today? Do you want me to drive you there?"
While enjoying the burst of flavor from the crystal shrimp dumplings in his mouth, the freshness of the shrimp and juice, Russell asked.
"School is suspended for a while," Gwen replied, also eating her dim sum.
"Why?" Russell asked.
"Why?" Gwen looked up at Russell, her tone soft, "The school is almost a ruin, how can we have classes?"
Russell gave an awkward smile, changing the subject.
He almost forgot, most of New York had been turned into ruins by him and Thanos.
"Gwen, eat more."
"Mhm."
Gwen nodded, and after clearing her own breakfast, she set her sights on Russell's breakfast.
'I don't know why, but my appetite has grown again recently. It's like, right after I was bitten by the mutated spider.'
As a'superhuman,' daily metabolism consumes a lot.
Naturally, he also needs to consume more food.
But Gwen still felt that her food intake recently was not right.
"Russell, did you do something to me?"
"Yes, I've been nourishing you with energy recently."
Ring, ring, ring~
A phone call interrupted Russell's explanation.
The phone showed the contact as Coulson.
The call connected, and Russell spoke playfully.
"Coulson, you finally learned to call me instead of painstakingly flying over."
On the other end of the phone, Coulson, who was about to speak, froze at these words.
Did he not want to call Russell?
It was just that Russell's phone was usually unreachable, which was why he had to stake out Russell at the bookstore.
Of course, there was another point. Formal matters should be discussed offline if possible.
"Russell, if your phone were available twenty-four hours a day, I would definitely thank you."
Russell chuckled: "I'll try. Coulson, is there something you need me for?"
Coulson explained: "Last night, S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents discovered a group of… aliens. They claimed to be your friends, Russell, and wanted to retrieve some alien wreckage."
"My friends? Are they five aliens + half an Earthling, and do they call themselves the Guardians of the Galaxy?" Russell asked.
"Yes," Coulson confirmed.
Although he didn't understand why Russell said half an Earthling, the other characteristics generally matched.
Most importantly, satellite surveillance had captured how that group arrived on Earth the day the portal opened.
Calling Russell was just a routine confirmation.
"Whatever they want, let them take it," Russell said casually.
Although Russell liked to order people around and enjoyed getting things for free.
But he wasn't completely freeloading.
The Guardians of the Galaxy helped him find Thanos, so he released Nebula.
His battle with Thanos destroyed Star-Lord's Milano.
Normally, after he was done, he would find a way to compensate him.
Now, being able to use Thanos's warship wreckage as compensation was a good thing, saving some trouble.
"I told you, we're Russell's friends. Oh, be careful, don't break this thing."
On the other end of the phone, Rocket's irritable voice faintly came through.
"Coulson, a friendly reminder.
"That short Rocket, about 1.2 meters tall, he's a super genius.
"If you have any questions about studying the alien warship wreckage, you can ask him.
"If he's willing to answer."
"It's 1.22 meters, not 1.2 meters!"
Rocket's voice came again, much louder this time.
He either hacked the communication or snatched Coulson's phone.
"My friend, your eyesight is good, you saw that I am a super-super genius.
"But your vision might need correction.
"I know a Doctor whose medical skills are excellent, and his surgery success rate is one hundred percent.
"If you need it, I can help you make an appointment."
"That won't be necessary. To operate on me, your Doctormight need more practice. I'm not talking about skill, I'm talking about strength."
Facing Rocket's complaint, Russell was unfazed.
"When are you leaving Earth? Let's get together before you go, I'll prepare a gift for you."
"Not sure, maybe a month. Star-Lord rarely gets to return to his home planet, he wants to stay longer.
"We'll contact you before we leave, Russell." Rocketreplied.
After speaking, Rocket hung up the phone, and Coulson's voice sounded.
The mystery was solved, Rocket had hacked and intercepted the communication signal.
"Russell, thank you for the reminder."
"You're welcome."
The call was hung up again.
Russell looked at the dining table, which was empty.
His gaze shifted, Gwen was slumped in a chair, stroking her flat stomach.
Although she ate a lot, she digested it quickly.
"Russell, I'm heading out. New York isn't peaceful lately, and the citizens of New York need their good neighbor, Ghost-Spider.
"The bookstore will open soon, remember to look after the shop."
Without waiting for Russell to reply, Gwen climbed out the window.
Spider-Man, not taking the usual path.
"Gaya. I have a difficult and important mission for you."
"Uncle Gravik, what mission?"
Gravik pointed at the young man on the screen, with sword-like eyebrows and star-like eyes, about 1.88 meters tall, wearing a plain White robe. He stood proudly in the sky, with an extraordinary and refined demeanor.
"This is the Mage Russell, who sank Sakura Island and whose battle aftermath destroyed most of New York City.
"According to reliable sources, this Mage Russell operates a reading room in New York.
"Gaya, I need you to find a way to get close to him, use our talents, and acquire his information and abilities."
Gaya is the daughter of the Skrull patriarch.
Like Gravik, they are both Super Skrulls.
Ordinary Skrulls can freely change their appearance.
After contacting a target, they can disguise themselves as the target and also copy their memories.
And Super Skrulls can even copy the abilities of the person they imitate.
More chapters available on WTR-Lab up to 346: I'm in marvel