Chapter 25: Chapter 23: A Little Deceit
"The smaller the connection between prophecy and reality, the more fixed the future and the more accurate the vision," Hermione explained.
Though her words sounded a bit convoluted, everyone present wasn't ordinary and quickly grasped her meaning.
The moment the future is known, it changes.
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Thus, it's crucial to maintain the original course of events to ensure the desired outcome in certain matters remains unchanged.
"In other words, S.H.I.E.L.D. should carry on its search and rescue for Stark as usual. Don't slack off, but avoid unnecessary actions," Fury deduced. "That way, they'll discover Stark's whereabouts, notify the military, and successfully rescue him."
In short, proceed as if nothing happened.
"Bingo!"
Hermione's expression said, "You're getting it," making Fury's brow twitch.
"But how long will it take?" Pepper was still anxious.
Seeing Hermione's magic was one thing, but Tony's life was at stake, and she couldn't help but worry.
She hadn't expected to conclude with a "wait and see."
"Hmm..." Hermione mused, "With my current magic, I can foresee up to a month. If all goes well, what I saw will happen within that time frame."
Everyone exchanged glances, feeling slightly reassured.
A month—they could wait.
Hermione was relieved they accepted her explanation.
Though she was deceiving them, she didn't want to disrupt the future due to unforeseen butterfly effects.
Her knowledge of the future was also a significant advantage.
And who knows, if she meddled with this crucial point, something like "the will of the universe" might retaliate.
Until she became truly powerful, she wasn't ready to make drastic moves.
Moreover, Hermione had plans for Tony Stark. If he didn't survive or become Iron Man, it would be a significant loss for her.
While the others discussed details, Hermione rolled her eyes and suddenly cried, clutching her head in apparent pain.
"What's wrong?" Natasha and Pepper rushed over to support her.
Hermione's face was pale, her body swaying, her expression twisted with pain, and cold sweat dotted her forehead.
"The spell is overwhelming..."
Hermione managed to whisper.
Everyone was alarmed.
Could prophecy actually harm the body?
To help them, Miss Wizard had endured this...
They couldn't help but feel moved.
"Prophecy is a forbidden magic. The strain it places is secondary; misuse can severely harm the body. Otherwise, everyone would casually learn the future, leading to chaos," Hermione explained haltingly. "Few in wizard history have mastered prophecy."
She lifted her head with a hint of pride.
But her pale, weak face evoked sympathy and worry.
Even in this state, she was showing off... They felt helpless.
Natasha and Pepper, both soft-hearted toward Hermione, were moved by her vulnerability. Pepper, in particular, felt guilty.
If it weren't for finding Tony, this lovely child wouldn't have to endure such strain.
Thinking this, Pepper's frustration toward Tony grew.
It's all Tony's fault!
When he returns, he must personally thank Hermione and compensate her, even if she decides to scold him!
Fury considered, "Miss Wizard, if you ever need aid from S.H.I.E.L.D., please ask. We'll do our best to help."
His initial suspicion of deceit quickly dissipated.
Hermione's face showed the prophecy's toll was genuine.
And she was just a simple child; how could she be so cunning?
"Really?"
Hermione's eyes sparkled.
Fury felt a pang of worry.
"I need dragon heartstrings, phoenix feathers, unicorn blood, and acromantula venom," Hermione listed without hesitation.
Yes, she was playing them.
"Wait, wait!" Fury interjected, stopping her.
Dragons, phoenixes, and unicorns—where would he find such mythical creatures?
You're giving S.H.I.E.L.D. an impossible task.
"Eh..." Hermione's eyes dimmed with disappointment.
Her pitiful demeanor tugged at Pepper's heart.
"She helped us, can't you grant her this wish?"
This wish... Fury's mouth twitched.
Did you hear what she asked for?
But seeing Pepper's overflowing compassion, Fury knew reasoning was futile. He sighed:
"I'm sorry, Miss Wizard, your request exceeds our capacity. But if it's anything else, within Earth's reach, we'll mobilize our resources for you. How's that?"
Nick Fury felt a pang of frustration. After today, it seemed unlikely he'd get Hermione's help for free. Even Natasha might protest.
Ha... Hermione grinned internally.
Once they experienced wizardry's convenience, they wouldn't resist.
Once charmed by magic, there's no turning back.
If they wanted her assistance, they'd work for her forever!
Feigning recovery, Hermione stood. A broom appeared out of nowhere.
In four pairs of astonished eyes, she mounted the broom, grabbed the crystal ball, and flew out the window.
"You can fly?!"
Fury's one eye widened.
"Can you walk?" Hermione asked.
Fury nodded.
Hermione looked at him skeptically, "Then why doubt a wizard can fly?"
Fury: "..."
"Bye, Sister Pepper, Sister Natasha!"
While Fury pondered, Hermione waved. Her broom soared skyward, turning into a dot disappearing in the distance.
After Hermione left, Pepper and Natasha exchanged glances.
Natasha, in particular, appraised Pepper. Despite her weariness, she exuded elegance and poise.
And Pepper seemed quite fond of Hermione.
This sparked an unexpected sense of rivalry in Natasha.
Little Hermione always liked pretty sisters; would she be swayed by Pepper...?
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