Infinite Evolution in the Marvel universe

Banner could tell that Thor's invitation to him was just a courtesy, but he didn't mind. After all, he wouldn't have trusted himself before either, let alone expecting others to.

"Let's go. I'll introduce you to my father and Jane," Thor said with a grin. "And while we're at it, I'll give you both a tour of Asgard."

The excitement was clear in Thor's eyes, especially with the increased chances of success.

Tony and Banner followed him out of the Rainbow Bridge temple, stepping onto the grand bridge that stretched far across Asgard's lands. At its distant end stood a magnificent palace that seemed to touch the sky. Banner's eyes widened in amazement.

Asgard's architecture had an old-world grandeur mixed with advanced technology, a blend that made Banner feel like he'd stepped into a realm of fantasy.

For Tony, though, it was mostly just something new to examine. Having already visited Xandar and seen other planets' technology, he was more curious than awestruck. He knew Earth would eventually adapt in similar ways.

"Man, cosmic tech is way beyond what we've got on Earth," Banner said, looking around in awe. He knew Asgard was only one piece of the cosmic puzzle. Even if some civilizations weren't as advanced as Asgard, connecting with other planets would propel a culture's technology way beyond what Earth could imagine.

"Asgard isn't known for its tech out here in the universe," Thor explained, hearing Banner's comment. "We're known for our gods, each with unique powers, and our mastery of magic."

"If we're talking high-tech civilizations," he added, "the Kree Empire and the Xandarian Empire are the ones setting the bar. They each have some of the universe's most advanced AI systems, relying on technology rather than magic to build and enhance their societies."

"So the Xandarian Empire... that's the place Tony mentioned before, right?" Banner asked, piecing things together.

"Yeah, Xandar is part of the Xandarian Empire," Thor nodded, glancing over at Tony.

"Well, maybe I'll get a chance to check it out for myself someday," Banner mused aloud, the idea sparking his scientific curiosity. After all, alongside being the Hulk, Banner was still a scientist with a thirst for technological wonders.

"If Earth stays out of trouble, I'd be happy to take you there myself," Tony offered, giving Banner a nod.

As the three walked through Asgard, chatting and taking in the sights, they ran into someone unexpected.

"Oh, wow—look who decided to drop by!" Loki's exaggerated tone rang out as he greeted them. "It's the inventor from the Church of the Void himself, Iron Man—Tony Stark!"

Having felt a bit wronged on Void Island before, Loki's tone now carried a hint of mocking, his confidence bolstered by being back in Asgard.

"Loki, you think I won't smack you just because we're in Asgard?" Tony shot back, eyebrow raised, his tone cold and daring.

"Well, my father is watching from the palace," Loki smirked, though he seemed a bit taken aback by Tony's bold response. "So maybe… try to behave yourself, Stark."

"Your father, the great King Odin, renowned across the universe…" Tony replied, slowly stepping toward Loki with a sly grin. "I'm sure he wouldn't care if we had a little scuffle. To him, it'd probably just look like a harmless spat between youngsters. A king that legendary obviously wouldn't sweat the small stuff."

In the palace, Odin, hearing Tony's praise, couldn't help but be amused. With his reputation at stake, he couldn't possibly interfere in such a trivial matter.

"Brother, help me out here!" Loki muttered to Thor, sensing he couldn't rely on Odin's help. "This is Asgard—if he attacks me, it's an insult to your honor!"

Thor chuckled, shrugging slightly. "Tony, let it go. Loki's just… got a big mouth."

Tony sighed, relenting at Thor's request but still giving Loki a final warning. "Fine. But if I hear one more smug comment out of you, Loki, you'd better watch yourself."

Loki feigned innocence, smiling. "What are you talking about, Stark? I'm honestly glad you're both here to help. Why else would I have come to greet you personally?"

"We can probably learn a thing or two from Loki—he knows a lot," Thor added.

Tony exchanged a look with Banner, who simply gave a 'do-as-you-will' shrug. Deciding it couldn't hurt, Tony nodded in agreement.

As they followed Thor and Loki toward the palace, Loki whispered to Thor, "Bringing Stark to Asgard and not giving me a heads-up? I thought we were past keeping secrets from each other, brother."

Thor grinned. "I wasn't sure he'd agree to help, so I didn't want to get your hopes up. But hey, here they are."

Loki gave him a slightly exasperated look. Thor wasn't quite as straightforward as he used to be—maybe he was learning.

Tony and Banner pretended not to hear the brothers' exchange as they finally arrived at the palace, its golden hallways and solemn guards conveying a reverence that made both of them act a bit more respectfully.

Note: If you are interested, read up to chapter 348 at patreon.com/MythicForge11