Infinite Evolution in the Marvel universe

Soon, Tony Stark, with bandages on his hands and under the protection of his bodyguard Happy Hogan, took the stage.

"Everyone, please take your seats so you can all see me."

Tony Stark, despite his injuries and not looking his best, spoke in his usual casual manner.

At his words, the reporters and other guests quickly settled into their seats.

Tony Stark took his place at the front of the stage and noticed Harvey Amberlock standing at the back, standing out from the crowd.

Although Tony had never officially met Harvey, he had heard plenty about him over the past few years. Harvey was one of the few wealthy Asians in New York, and his name was quite memorable.

To Tony Stark, Harvey Amberlock seemed like a lucky person who struck it rich by chance, without much real talent or substance. So, Tony only remembered him vaguely.

However, Harvey was a wealthy individual, and it was easy to guess that he might be here to discuss investment opportunities.

Facing Tony's gaze, Harvey simply smiled and nodded.

If it had been before, Tony Stark would have definitely taken some time after the press conference to chat with Harvey, to see if he was here for investment purposes. However, after the recent events and being injured, Tony had other priorities.

Knowing the announcement he was about to make would significantly impact Stark Industries' stock, Tony Stark wasn't in the mood for such discussions.

Tony began his speech, delivering a moment that would be remembered by many:

"So, I've decided to shut down Stark International's weapons division."

The decision to abandon the arms industry immediately caused an uproar, attracting various doubts and criticisms.

Tony's large-headed associate, Stan, forced a smile beside him.

Harvey, witnessing this familiar scene, smiled in return. Everything felt so familiar that he was now 90% certain this was the Marvel main universe.

Tony Stark noticed that Harvey Amberlock was not surprised or angry about his decision to close the weapons division. In fact, Harvey seemed pleased.

Tony remembered that Harvey had bought a significant amount of Stark Industries' stock, at least $500 million worth. Yet Harvey showed no signs of disbelief or anger over the stock's impending drop.

Tony wondered why.

Just then, Tony noticed Harvey turning to leave.

"Roddy, stop him. I want to talk to him."

Tony called out immediately.

"Which one?"

Although Roddy didn't understand Tony's request, he did not refuse and was only curious about who Tony wanted him to stop.

"Harvey Amberlock."

Tony said quickly.

While Tony was directing Roddy, Coulson had already approached Harvey.

"Mr. Harvey Amberlock, I'm an agent from the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division."

"Could we have a word?"

Coulson asked politely.

"Are you still trailing me with that crazy woman? I've been avoiding you for so long, and you still won't leave me alone?"

Harvey was not in the mood for pleasantries.

"Mr. Harvey Amberlock, that was just a misunderstanding. We have no malicious intent."

"We only want to discuss a few matters with you."

"I assure you, I won't harm you like that crazy woman did."

Coulson, aware of the previous incident with the FBI questioning their department, looked slightly embarrassed. He patted his chest, pockets, and pants to show he wasn't carrying any dangerous weapons.

"What do you want to discuss with me?"

Harvey knew that resisting would only draw more suspicion, so he scrutinized Coulson and asked.

"This isn't the best place for a conversation."

"If you have a secure location with not too many people, we can discuss things there."

"I guarantee, I won't harm a hair on your head."

Coulson, aware that the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division was in desperate need of help, and the Avengers were making no progress, didn't want to miss out on any potential superpowered individuals.

Harvey Amberlock was under their watch for some reason, though Natasha's previous actions were too hasty and reckless.

Coulson wanted to talk to Harvey again and see if any progress could be made.

"You seem to be busy?"

"I'm Tony Stark."

"Harvey Amberlock, although this is our first meeting, I'm sure you've heard of me just as I've heard of you."

"Shall we find a place to chat?"

"It won't take much of your time, and my time is also very valuable."

Tony Stark, seeing the two conversing at the entrance, didn't need Roddy to intervene. He walked up and naturally introduced himself, his tone carrying an unmissable air of arrogance and confidence.

"Sure."

Harvey noticed Tony Stark approaching him directly and, with a flicker of his eyes, agreed.

"Then follow me."

Tony Stark, seeing that Harvey didn't refuse or seem surprised, casually said and led the way.

He took Harvey and Coulson to a room next to the press conference venue.

"Harvey Amberlock, as I understand it, you've bought a substantial amount of Stark Industries stock over the past two years."

"Based on our current market value, it's worth about $1 billion."

"I've heard that you've only profited from these investments."

"Yet, with the announcement I'm making today, your wealth should take a significant hit."

"You don't seem surprised or upset; in fact, you look somewhat pleased."

"Don't you feel any pain at the thought of your wealth drastically decreasing from now on?"

Tony Stark poured himself a glass of water and asked with a hint of probing.

His luxurious Stark Mansion alone cost tens of millions of dollars.

One billion dollars is a fortune many people couldn't even imagine in their lifetimes.

Losing such an amount would be unbearable for most, and the sudden fluctuation might even cause some people to collapse.