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·Chapter 611: Sir, Please Put Down Your Spear

SHIELD Cosmic Cube Research Base-

Nick Fury took the elevator down to the underground laboratory. Agent Coulson reported by his side:

"Dr. Selvig detected an energy surge from the Cosmic Cube four hours ago."

"The space agency didn't authorize Selvig to run any tests."

Nick Fury asked, "So he didn't test it?"

Coulson replied, "No, he wasn't even here at the time."

"The energy surge was triggered naturally."

Agent Hill, following behind, asked, "It just turned itself on?"

"What level is the energy at now?"

"The energy is still rising. Selvig can't shut it down, so we ordered a full evacuation."

As Nick Fury walked towards the laboratory, he asked, "How long until the full evacuation?"

Coulson responded, "Half an hour."

"Make it faster."

Coulson immediately turned to accelerate the evacuation procedures.

The underground research lab for the Cosmic Cube was massive. As Nick Fury continued down, Agent Hill commented, "Sir, perhaps evacuation won't help."

Nick Fury retorted, "Should we just send everyone back to bed then?"

Hill explained, "If we can't control the Cube's energy, the impact radius could be beyond our imagination."

Nick Fury glanced at Hill and instructed, "I need you to ensure the transfer of all prototype devices for Energy Block 2."

"Sir, do we really need to worry about that now?"

Nick Fury stopped, looking at Hill seriously, "As long as the world hasn't ended, we need to be prepared."

"Clear out all technical equipment from the underground and load all Energy Block 2 devices onto transport vehicles."

Hill had no choice but to comply with Fury's orders, nodding, "Yes, sir."

She headed in the opposite direction, telling two agents, "Follow me."

Nick Fury watched Hill leave and continued to the Cosmic Cube's central laboratory.

Upon arrival, he saw Dr. Selvig working at the machine and asked, "Doctor, what's the status?"

Hearing Fury, Selvig looked up from his work.

"Director."

Nick Fury got straight to the point, "Do we have any concrete information?"

Selvig replied, "The Cosmic Cube has already been activated."

Fury frowned, "Are you kidding me? This isn't funny."

Selvig explained, "The Cube isn't just activated; it seems to have gained consciousness."

Though confused, Fury asked, "Have you tried cutting off the power?"

In his mind, removing the power supply should stabilize the Cube.

"The Cube itself is an energy source. Even if we cut the power off, it can restart itself."

"If its energy reaches the peak..."

Nick Fury interrupted, "We've been preparing for this, Doctor."

"Utilizing energy from the cosmos."

Selvig moved to the computer and said, "We haven't mastered that power yet."

"My calculations are far from complete. If we had another dose of that Felix Felicis, it might speed up my progress."

"Moreover, now it's emitting interference and radiation."

Hearing "radiation," Fury looked alarmed at the Cosmic Cube on the instrument.

Selvig clarified, "It's harmless, just low-level gamma rays."

Nick Fury looked at Selvig seriously, "That's harmful enough."

Clearly, Selvig was unaware that Fury was referring to Bruce Banner, the Hulk.

"Where are Agent Barton and Yakushi Kabuto?"

Selvig gestured to the high platform, "The hawkeye and the ninja? The hawkeye is in there, and the ninja is beside him."

Nick Fury followed Selvig's direction and saw Barton hanging on the railing and Kabuto standing nearby.

"Agent Barton, report."

Barton, hearing Fury, quickly came down using rope. Though he could have jumped, he avoided causing a disturbance that might affect the Cosmic Cube and other equipment.

Fury said to Barton, "I assigned you to monitor the situation closely."

Barton replied, "I can see better from up high."

"Did you see what activated the Cube?"

At this moment, a researcher called out, "Doctor, the energy is surging again."

Barton answered, "No one came in or out. Selvig is clean, no contacts or messages."

They approached the Cosmic Cube. Fury glanced at Kabuto on the high platform, "What about Yakushi Kabuto?"

"He was with Selvig, not in the lab when it happened."

"If someone's behind this, it's not one of us."

"What do you mean?"

Barton looked at the Cube, "It's a door to the other side of the universe, right?"

"And doors open both ways."

On the high platform, Kabuto thought, "I've already reported the Cube's disturbance to Lord Charles. I wonder what his plans are."

Initially, Kabuto had suggested to Charles that they seize the Cube directly. Even if Charles couldn't take action, the Akatsuki could easily attack the base with their current strength. But the instruction was to wait for a better opportunity.

Kabuto now believed this might be the opportunity Charles mentioned.

As Fury and Barton conversed, the Cube suddenly emitted a massive energy surge, startling them. The entire base shook, jostling Coulson and alerting Hill in the parking lot.

The Cube's energy output intensified, and a beam shot out, creating a portal on the ground. Through it, Fury and Barton saw the stars of another universe.

The beam ceased, the portal exploded in a bluish glow, and the two braced for impact but were unharmed.

A figure appeared where the portal had been. Agents cautiously approached the stranger—Loki, the Norse god of Mischief. He surveyed his surroundings with a sly smile.

Everyone stared at the unexpected visitor. Kabuto, frowning slightly, thought, "Is the Cube a space-related artifact? It resembles the Kumo Village's Heavenly Transfer Technique."

The Cosmic Cube must be in the hands of Lord Charles, Kabuto thought to himself.

At this time, Fury addressed the newcomer, "Sir, please put down your spear."

----1----

·Chapter 612: Seizing the Cosmic Cube

Nick Fury looked at the man before him and said, "Sir, please put down your spear."

Loki, hearing Fury, glanced at the scepter in his hand. "This fool thinks it's a spear? Let me show him what this 'spear' can do."

Loki extended the scepter, and the gem atop it emitted a bright light, firing a laser beam at Fury.

Sensing the danger, Hawkeye Clint Barton quickly tackled Fury to the ground, saving him from the blast, but the equipment behind them wasn't so fortunate and was blown away.

Seeing Loki's attack, the nearby strike team members immediately opened fire with their assault rifles.

"Rat-a-tat-tat!"

Bullets poured out, striking Loki but only causing sparks to fly off his body as if hitting metal. Ignoring the bullets, Loki leaped forward, his scepter killing a strike team member instantly, the bullets not affecting him at all.

"Rat-a-tat-tat!"

Other team members continued to fire at Loki, but their efforts were futile. Loki retaliated with throwing knives, killing them one by one.

All this happened in mere moments. Despite the chaos, the lab still had numerous agents who attacked Loki with handguns and other weapons.

However, their attacks were all in vain. Loki seemed invincible, effortlessly killing the agents with swift strikes. One agent who got too close was kicked into a wall, dying on impact.

Yakushi Kabuto, standing high above, did not immediately join the fight. He cautiously analyzed this strange man's strength, realizing that Loki's power surpassed any human he had encountered.

"Is this guy an alien?" Kabuto thought, noting Loki's human-like appearance but extraordinary abilities. "Whether he's an alien or not, he's powerful."

While Kabuto analyzed Loki's abilities, Hawkeye Barton charged at Loki. Before Barton could strike, Loki blasted him away with the scepter.

"Boom!"

Seeing Barton not reduced to ashes directly piqued Loki's interest. He approached the fallen archer.

Barton got up and swung a punch at Loki.

Loki caught Barton's fist. "You're different from the others. I need a subordinate like you."

Loki grabbed Barton's arm and touched the scepter to Barton's heart. The Mind Stone emitted a light, and Barton was instantly under Loki's control.

At this moment, Kabuto appeared in a flash before Nick Fury, who was attempting to secure the Cosmic Cube.

Fury glanced warily at Kabuto and said, "Kabuto, join Barton in stopping that alien."

Kabuto looked at the Cosmic Cube, then at Fury. After a moment of silence, he replied, "Okay."

Hearing Kabuto's agreement, Fury breathed a sigh of relief. He had feared this ninja might switch sides at any moment.

Meanwhile, Barton holstered his gun and Loki seized the opportunity to control a few more people.

Suddenly, Kabuto rushed at Loki, throwing several shurikens at him.

"Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"

"Clang! Clang! Clang!"

Loki deflected the shurikens with his scepter and fired a laser beam at Kabuto.

Kabuto used a substitution jutsu to dodge the beam.

"Boom!"

The wooden log left behind by Kabuto's jutsu was obliterated by the beam. Kabuto frowned, realizing the beam's power was formidable enough to injure him.

At this time, Barton approached Loki and said, "He's a ninja, much stronger than me."

Loki, intrigued by Barton's words, saw potential in Kabuto as a powerful subordinate.

Loki then unleashed a series of laser beams from the Mind Stone on his scepter, targeting Kabuto.

"Boom! Boom! Boom!"

Kabuto evaded the beams with agile movements and substitution jutsus, but he was intentionally holding back, making it seem as though Loki was overpowering him.

Loki, while attacking, noticed Fury packing up the Cosmic Cube. He ordered Barton, "Bring me the Cube. I need it."

"Yes, sir!"

Barton immediately drew his gun and shot Fury in the chest, knocking him to the ground. Without looking back, he grabbed the briefcase containing the Cube.

Barton turned to Loki and said, "Sir, this place is about to collapse. We need to leave."

A scientist controlled by Loki reported, "The space portal is collapsing. We have two minutes before the self-destruct sequence activates."

Hearing this, Loki frowned, realizing he couldn't afford to waste time. He slammed the scepter into the ground, sending a shockwave at Kabuto.

"Boom!"

The shockwave hit Kabuto, sending him crashing into a wall, knocking him out.

Loki glanced at Kabuto's unconscious form and ordered, "Retreat."

Loki, Barton, the scientist, and a few controlled agents quickly exited the building.

As they left, Nick Fury moved, pulling himself up and removing the flattened bullet from his chest. His special body armor had saved him.

Fury saw Kabuto lying unconscious and hurried over, checking his pulse. Kabuto was alive but unconscious. Fury lifted Kabuto over his shoulder and staggered toward the exit.

----2----

·Chapter 613: The War Begins

Barton, Loki, and their group exited the SHIELD base and reached the underground parking lot.

The scientist, holding the case with the Cosmic Cube, got into a pickup truck. S.H.I.E.L.D. agents took the driver's seat to operate the vehicle, while Loki sat in the back.

Agent Hill, noticing the strangely dressed Loki, asked curiously, "Who is that?"

Barton replied, "I don't know."

Due to Yakushi Kabuto's appearance, Loki hadn't had the chance to make his speech or introduce himself as an Asgardian.

When Hill heard Barton say he didn't know, she thought he was part of the secret underground laboratory and turned around to walk into the base without paying any attention.

She wanted to see what other equipment had not been evacuated.

At that moment, her radio crackled to life with Nick Fury's voice. Carrying the unconscious Kabuto, Fury spoke into his radio as he made his way out:

"Hill, can you hear me?"

The radio's transmission was heard by Hill, as well as by Loki and Barton. Realizing that the "black guy" wasn't dead, Loki reacted immediately.

In an instant, Loki adjusted his position, aiming his scepter towards Agent Hill.

"Barton has betrayed us."

As soon as Fury's words came through the radio, Hill rolled into cover behind a wall.

Seeing this, Barton swiftly drew his gun and opened fire. Despite his quick reaction, Hill had anticipated the attack and avoided it.

Barton continued firing as he got into the truck, restraining Hill and preventing her from returning fire. The truck then sped away from the base.

Hearing the engine, Hill peeked out and fired at the retreating vehicle, but the bullets only struck the truck's metal body, causing no harm to the occupants.

…

Meanwhile-

Inside the base-

Fury dragged Kabuto as he made his way out, shouting into his radio, "They've taken the Cosmic Cube! Stop them!"

Following Fury's orders, Hill quickly organized agents to pursue the escaping truck and got into a vehicle herself to join the chase.

Loki, observing the pursuing cars, smirked and fired a laser from his scepter, easily destroying one of the vehicles, resulting in a deadly crash.

…

On the other side-

Coulson, seeing the collapsing building, ordered, "Forget the equipment! Evacuate immediately!"

He led his team outside to board a waiting helicopter. As they prepared to lift off, Coulson radioed in:

"Director, the personnel upstairs have evacuated. You need to get out now."

Fury, still carrying the unconscious Kabuto, ran as fast as he could towards the exit.

At the last moment, Fury, carrying Yakushi Kabuto, boarded the rooftop helicopter and took off.

As the helicopter lifted into the air, the underground space portal collapsed, swallowing the entire experimental base.

…

Elsewhere-

Agent Hill was engaged in a shootout with Barton. After Barton managed to push her car off the road, Hill's vehicle fell behind.

As she desperately tried to catch up, the collapsing underground tunnel buried her car. Though she suffered a head injury, she was not in immediate danger.

…

In separate helicopters, Coulson and Nick Fury watched the collapsing base, struggling to remain calm.

Seeing the unconscious Kabuto beside him, Fury decided not to pursue Barton and his group. Losing the Cosmic Cube was bad enough; he couldn't afford to lose Kabuto too.

Fury's radio crackled with Coulson's voice.

"Director Fury, do you copy?"

Fury picked up the radio and replied, "The Cosmic Cube has been taken by the enemy."

He glanced at the still-unconscious Kabuto and continued, "We've got injured. Hill, what's your status?"

Hill, just climbing out of her car in the tunnel, answered, "There are many people buried underground. I don't know how many survivors there are."

Fury issued a command, "Send out an all-agents alert."

"Order all personnel not involved in the rescue to track down that cube."

"Understood!" Hill responded.

Fury continued giving orders, "Coulson, return to base. This is a level 7 event."

"From now on, we're at war."

Coulson paused for a moment before responding, "What do we do now?"

Fury, looking at the unconscious Kabuto, slowly said, "Initiate the Avengers Plan."

With Fury's orders, S.H.I.E.L.D. quickly sprang into action.

…

Meanwhile-

Charles Doyle had returned to his base. He didn't idle upon arrival.

After receiving the intelligence information from Kabuto Yakushi, Charles knew that the Battle of New York was about to begin. And Charles was full of anticipation for this major event on Earth.

While others might fear the Chitauri army, Charles felt no such fear. Despite having fewer ninjas, he was confident in their ability to easily defeat the Chitauri.

His main goal this time was to seize the Cosmic Cube and possibly even the Mind Stone during the chaos.

But first, Charles needed to prepare. He quickly instructed the Red Queen.

"Red Queen, notify all Konoha ninjas to gather for a meeting at the base tomorrow morning."

"Yes, Master."

After giving his orders, Charles entered the system space. Having fully mastered his newfound strength through training, he was now ready to recruit the ninjas he had previously obtained but not yet summoned, in order bolster his forces.

…

On the other side-

Black Widow Natasha Romanoff was undergoing a secret interrogation in a room in Russia.

Dressed in black stockings, with her red hair tied back, Natasha was bound to a chair, looking particularly seductive.

----3----

·Chapter 614: Summoning Members

At this moment, Natasha leaned back in her chair, having just been struck hard in the face by one of the interrogator's men, but she appeared completely unfazed.

A general looked at Natasha with a mocking expression and said, "Tonight is turning out differently than I expected."

Natasha looked at him and replied, "I know what you were expecting."

"Trust me, this is better."

The general sneered at her and asked, "Who are you working for?"

"Is it Lermontov?"

"Does he really think we still need his orders to transport our goods?"

One of the general's men walked up to Natasha and pushed her chair back, leaving her teetering on the edge of a rooftop, where a fall would be fatal for an ordinary person.

Seeing this threat, Natasha quickly responded, "Isn't General Sorokhov responsible for export operations?"

Hearing Natasha's answer, the man stopped pushing her chair.

The general scoffed at the name and said, "Sorokhov? He's just a middleman, a front."

"Your outdated intel has misled you."

He then looked Natasha up and down, adding, "The famous Black Widow, just a pretty face after all."

Natasha, taking the insult without any change in face, asked, "Do you really think I'm pretty?"

The general didn't look at her but walked over to a rack of torture devices, saying, "Tell Lermontov not to bother."

"Tell him he's finished."

"But you'll probably have to write it down."

The general picked up a pair of pliers from the rack, and his henchman, showing practiced skill, forced Natasha's mouth open. Clearly, this wasn't their first time using such methods.

Just at this critical moment, the phone of another henchman rang loudly, breaking the tension.

Thinking it might be important, the henchman quickly answered the call.

After listening to the caller, the henchman looked at the general and said, "It's for her."

Surprised that someone had called one of his men, the general walked over, took the phone, and barked, "You listen to me..."

But before he could finish, Coulson on the other end interrupted, "You're at 114 Solonsky Plaza, third floor. Eight kilometers from you, there's an F-22 fighter jet."

"Put the woman on the phone, or I'll level the entire street before you reach the lobby."

The general paused, taken aback. He reconsidered his initial disdain for Natasha, now looking at her with cautious respect.

After a moment's thought, the general walked over to Natasha and held the phone to her ear.

Hearing Natasha on the line, Coulson immediately said, "You need to come back."

Natasha, puzzled, replied, "Are you joking? I'm in the middle of an interrogation."

"Put it on hold," Coulson insisted.

Natasha explained, "I'm extracting information. This idiot is about to spill everything."

The general looked at his men in confusion and protested, "I haven't said anything."

Looking at the general, Natasha continued, "Listen, I can't break away right now."

On the other end, Coulson, back at the headquarters, spoke with a serious tone, "Natasha, Barton has been brainwashed."

Hearing that Barton was in trouble, Natasha's expression changed, and she said coldly, "Don't hang up."

Natasha then shifted her shoulder, causing the phone to fly into the air. With a burst of strength, she broke the ropes binding her arms to the chair, caught the phone mid-air, and delivered two powerful kicks, knocking out the general's two henchmen. She then punched the general, rendering him unconscious.

All of this happened in a split second. Recently, Natasha had injected a physical enhancement serum, greatly improving her physical abilities.

Natasha put the phone back to her ear, picked up her high heels, and asked while walking, "Where's Barton?"

"I don't know."

"Is he still alive?"

"He should be. We'll discuss it when you get back."

"But first, you need to talk to the big guy."

Natasha assumed Coulson meant Stark, smiling slightly, and said, "Coulson, you know Stark trusts me as much as he trusts his combat skills."

"No, leave Stark to me. You need to find the other big green guy."

…

Meanwhile-

Charles Doyle had entered the system space and opened the ninja roster. He saw five ninjas yet to be recruited: Curse Seal - Kimimaro, Shippuden - Uchiha Sasuke, Shippuden - Haruno Sakura, Kin Tsuchi, and Shizuka.

Looking at the roster, Charles first selected the B-ranked Shippuden - Haruno Sakura.

Upon selecting Shippuden - Haruno Sakura, her information appeared before him.

B Ninja: Shippuden - Haruno Sakura, Shards 40/40. Recruit?

Recruit!

Ding! Congratulations to Charles Doyle for successfully recruiting a two-star B rank Ninja, Shippuden - Haruno Sakura.

In the next moment, an image appeared before Charles, showing Haruno Sakura grown up, wearing gloves, and striking a powerful pose.

Charles then checked the ninja's skills.

Shippuden - Haruno Sakura: B-Rank Ninja

Stars: Two

Basic Attack: Tsunade-Style Fighting Technique

Substitution Jutsu: Wood Substitution

Skills: Windmill Charge, Cherry Blossom Impact, Ultimate Cherry Blossom Clash

Windmill Charge: Performs a forward dash and grabs an enemy. If successful, grabs the enemy, jumps into the air, and slams them to the ground, knocking them up if not killed.

Cherry Blossom Impact: Gathers chakra in the hand, performs a forward dash ground slam attack, knocking up enemies. (Enemies thrown will hit other targets.)

Ultimate Cherry Blossom Clash: Gathers a large amount of chakra in the hand, performs two forward attacks, then jumps into the air for a devastating ground slam.

Seeing these skills, Charles felt pleased with the recruitment results.

Charles knew that Shippuden Haruno Sakura's three skills primarily involved the Chakra Enhanced strength she learned from Tsunade.

At this stage in Shippuden, Sakura had not yet mastered the Strength of a Hundred Seal and was merely a jōnin—a jōnin proficient in medical ninjutsu.

While her strength wasn't overwhelming, there was no need to worry about her being overpowered by Chitauri soldiers.

Moreover, having fused with C-rank Haruno Sakura, her overall strength would be even greater.

Upon recruiting Sakura, Charles's chakra capacity increased by 5, reaching a total of 258. Additionally, the knowledge of Chakra Enhanced strength and some medical ninjutsu techniques were also imparted to him.

As Charles successfully recruited Sakura, a system notification sounded:

"Ding! Congratulations to Charles Doyle for successfully recruiting 11 female ninjas. You have obtained the title 'Peerless Beauty Recruiter.'"

"Ding! System rewards one additional Battle slot."

Hearing that the system had rewarded an additional Battle slot, Charles was delighted. This saved him a considerable amount of resources.

Next, Charles focused on Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke and selected his avatar.

Upon selecting Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke, his information appeared before him.

B rank Ninja: Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke, Shards 40/40. Recruit?

Recruit!

Ding! Congratulations to Charles Doyle for successfully recruiting a two-star B rank Ninja, Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke.

In the next moment, an image appeared before Charles, showing Uchiha Sasuke in his signature outfit, with a Longsword drawn and ready for combat.

Charles then checked Sasuke's skills.

Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke: B-Rank Ninja

Stars: Two

Basic Attack: Longsword Techniques

Substitution Jutsu: Wood Substitution

Skills: Fire Release: Great Fire Dragon Technique, Chidori Sharp Spear, Kirin

Fire Release: Great Fire Dragon Technique: Shoots two dragon-head-shaped fireballs into the air, which circle briefly before exploding on the ground, attacking enemies.

Chidori Sharp Spear: Channels chakra into the ground, creating lightning. If it hits the enemy, a follow-up attack with a long lightning spear occurs.

Kirin: Summons lightning from the atmosphere, creating a large-scale lightning strike that takes the shape of a Kirin, dealing devastating damage to ground enemies.

Charles was very pleased with Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke's three jutsu. In terms of power and visual impact, they were all exceptional.

If Charles used these lightning techniques now, he could easily compete with Thor for his title.

Charles was extremely satisfied with Sasuke at this stage in Shippuden. Despite Sasuke only having the Three Tomoe Sharingan, he already possessed Kage-level strength. With the fusion of multiple Sasuke ninja cards, he could even achieve high Kage-level power.

Sasuke, having undergone rigorous training under Orochimaru, had developed formidable combat skills and extensive battle experience.

Charles recruited Sasuke, increasing his chakra capacity by another 5 units, reaching a total of 263.

The power of the Uchiha clan's bloodline and the Sharingan was further enhanced, along with Sasuke's jutsu and skills being integrated into Charles's memory.

With Sasuke successfully recruited, Charles shifted his focus to the last B-rank ninja.

Opening the avatar of Curse Mark Kimimaro, his information appeared:

B rank Ninja: Curse Mark Kimimaro, Shards 45/40. Recruit?

Recruit!

Ding! Congratulations to Charles Doyle for successfully recruiting a two-star B rank Ninja, Curse Mark Kimimaro.

In the next moment, an image of Kimimaro in his fully transformed Curse Mark Stage 2 form appeared, wielding his spinal column as a bone whip, ready for battle.

Charles examined Kimimaro's details:

Curse Mark Kimimaro: B-Rank Ninja

Stars: Two

Basic Attack: Shikotsumyaku Taijutsu!

Substitution Jutsu: Wood Substitution

Skills: Tessenka no Mai: Tsuru, Karamatsu no Mai, Sawarabi no Mai: Hanabira

Tessenka no Mai: Tsuru: Extracts a bone whip to grab enemies. If successful, pulls them close and strikes with a massive bone sword from the back, launching the enemy into the air.

Karamatsu no Mai: Spins with the bone whip, attacking surrounding enemies, launching them into the air and pulling them closer.

Sawarabi no Mai: Hanabira: Creates a field of bone spikes to immobilize enemies, then generates a giant rotating bone drill to crush everything in its path. ("Weaklings... perish in the dance of the Kaguya clan.")

Charles received Kimimaro, increasing his chakra by 5 units to 268. The power of Shikotsumyaku and its secret techniques were also imprinted in his mind.

…

While Charles was busy recruiting ninjas and enhancing his strength, Loki and Barton were not idle after their escape.

In a safe house provided by Barton, Loki introduced himself to Barton and others, revealing his identity as the second prince of Asgard. He explained his mission on Earth: to bring an army and conquer the planet.

After outlining his goals and ambitions, Loki turned to Barton:

"Besides you, who else on Earth possesses formidable strength?"

Having encountered Barton and the ninja Yakushi Kabuto, Loki surmised that Earth might not be as weak as he initially thought. As a future ruler, he needed to understand everything about this planet, especially its powerful inhabitants.

"Sir, on Earth, apart from us, there are other powerful individuals within S.H.I.E.L.D. such as Captain America Steve Rogers, the Flame Warrior Chen Haoran, Black Widow Natasha Romanoff, and Brock Rumlow."

"And if Yakushi Kabuto survived your attack, he should be counted as well."

"These are the forces under S.H.I.E.L.D. Additionally, S.H.I.E.L.D. has two powerful allies: Iron Man Tony Stark and the Hulk Bruce Banner."

As Barton spoke, he played video footage for Loki, providing a visual understanding of these formidable individuals.

Introducing Steve Rogers, Barton emphasized that he might be the most powerful person in S.H.I.E.L.D. after Chen Haoran, due to his enhanced strength from both the super-soldier serum and additional physical enhancer.

-----5-----

·Chapter 615: Bruce Banner

Barton played the video clips while explaining the background and abilities of each individual.

Loki watched the videos with a slight frown. He hadn't expected Earth to have such formidable individuals, but he still believed that these few fighters wouldn't be able to stop his Chitauri army.

After Barton finished his presentation, Loki was about to conclude the discussion when Barton spoke up again: "Actually, these people are not the real obstacles to your conquest. The true challenge comes from another group."

Intrigued, Loki asked, "Besides these individuals, are there even stronger people on Earth?"

Barton nodded and quickly pulled up some additional files on the computer. These files were about Charles Doyle and his group of ninjas.

Although Barton was an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. and was now under Loki's control due to the Mind Stone, his resentment and hatred for Charles Doyle had not diminished in the slightest.

Barton, as the boyfriend of Barbara Morse, had been deeply affected by her death during the mission involving Charles Agency. Only her head had been returned to him, adding to his grief and anger.

This hatred had been buried deep due to his lack of power, but now, under Loki's control, Barton saw an opportunity for revenge.

Barton then detailed the abilities of Charles Doyle and his ninjas, emphasizing that several of them were capable of defeating the Hulk.

He explained that in the event of a large-scale invasion, S.H.I.E.L.D. would certainly seek the help of Charles Agency, the Sand Ninjas, Sound Ninjas, and Mist Ninjas.

Moreover, these ninja groups were also interested in the Tesseract and had made several offers to trade for it.

If Loki hadn't known that Barton, under the Mind Stone's influence, wouldn't lie, he would have thought he was being deceived.

During his last visit to Earth, he hadn't encountered any powerful warriors. It hadn't been long since then, yet there had been such significant changes, and this new group of ninjas had emerged.

Loki's expression darkened. What he had initially thought to be a simple task had now escalated to a more challenging level.

However, he wasn't too worried. With Thanos backing him, he had access to not only the Chitauri but also other powerful armies.

Loki looked at Barton and asked, "Are there any other powerful individuals?"

Barton thought for a moment and then said, "According to our intelligence, there is a group of sorcerers on Earth, but S.H.I.E.L.D. hasn't been able to gather much useful information about them."

"There have been incidents involving magic, but they have all led to dead ends."

"By the way, the Flame Warrior was discovered while searching for these sorcerers."

Hearing the word "sorcerers," Loki scoffed. His mother was one of the most renowned sorcerers in the Nine Realms, and he himself was highly skilled in magic. He felt confident that no Earth sorcerer could pose a significant threat to him.

"Alright, I understand. But we needn't worry about them," Loki said.

He then turned to Dr. Selvig, who was holding the Tesseract, and asked, "Dr. Selvig, I need to open a massive portal with the Tesseract to bring my army directly to Earth. What materials will you need?"

Dr. Selvig thought for a moment and asked, "How large does the portal need to be?"

"The larger, the better," Loki replied.

After a few seconds of contemplation, Dr. Selvig said, "Generating a portal of such magnitude requires enormous energy. From what I know, only the arc reactor in Stark Tower, New York, can provide that amount of power."

"We also need iridium as a stabilizer, and we don't have any on hand," he added.

Barton quickly searched the computer and found relevant information. "Dr. Heinrich Schäfer in Germany has a supply of iridium," he said.

Loki nodded, "Find out where he is and arrange to retrieve the iridium."

"Yes, sir," Barton responded.

…

S.H.I.E.L.D. Triskelion Headquarters-

In Director Nick Fury's office, a conversation was taking place.

"Director, I've informed Natasha. She will find Dr. Bruce Banner," Coulson reported.

"I'll also reach out to Tony Stark for assistance. But shouldn't we enlist the help of the ninjas from Konoha, Sunagakure, Otogakure, and Kirigakure?" Coulson suggested.

Fury's expression turned serious. "No. Not only can we not ask for their help, but we must also ensure they don't find out about this."

"Remember, like the one who came through the portal, these ninjas are essentially aliens in our eyes," Fury explained.

"They've shown a keen interest in the Tesseract. They've adhered to the rules by trading for energy blocks, but if they discover we've lost the Tesseract, do you think they'll help us find it or join in the hunt for it?"

Coulson nodded in agreement. If the ninjas learn about the lost Tesseract, they'll likely try to acquire it. They could end up facing not just this alien invader, but also the ninjas.

Given their numbers and the destructive power of their ninjutsu, the situation would become even more chaotic.

"Understood, Director," Coulson said.

"Honestly, I'm reluctant to involve Tony Stark too, given his close ties with Charles Doyle. But we need his capabilities."

"Coulson, this matter is highly confidential," Fury emphasized.

"Understood, Director. I'll proceed with caution," Coulson replied.

As Coulson left, Director Nick Fury prepared to head to another meeting room to report the situation to the United Nations Security Council.

…

On the other side-

After recruiting all the C-rank ninjas, Charles turned to the remaining two C-rank ninjas, both female. He believed Shizuka's strength was slightly higher than Kin Tsuchi's.

First, he clicked on Kin Tsuchi's avatar.

Upon clicking, her information appeared:

C-rank Ninja: Kin Tsuchi

- Fragments: 15/10

- Recruit?

Recruit!

A notification sounded:

Ding! Congratulations, Charles Doyle, you have successfully recruited 1-star C-rank ninja, Kin Tsuchi.

In the next moment, an image appeared before Charles, showing Kin Tsuchi standing in the Chunin Exam arena, wearing a sound ninja forehead protector and her long hair reaching down to her calves.

Charles checked the details of Kin Tsuchi's abilities:

Kin Tsuchi: C-rank Ninja

- Star Level: 1-star

- Basic Attack: Taijutsu Attack!

- Substitution Jutsu: Wood Substitution

- Skills:

 - Senbon Rain: Uses taijutsu to damage enemies, then jumps into the air and throws numerous senbon.

 - Bell Senbon: Throws senbon four times, with the last one having a bell that can confuse the opponent (confused enemies attack their allies).

 - Genjutsu: Bell Clone: Uses genjutsu with a bell to create illusions of multiple clones, then both the real body and clones throw a large number of senbon at the enemy.

After a quick glance at Kin Tsuchi's skills, Charles didn't pay much attention. Although a strong genin, she was just that—a genin. He planned to assign her to the Sound Ninja Village as a small compensation for the temporary loss of Kimimaro.

By directly accepting her, Charles's chakra increased by 1 unit, reaching 269 units. Kin Tsuchi's jutsu knowledge was also transferred to Charles.

Next, Charles focused on the final ninja, Shizuka. Despite being a C-rank ninja like Kin Tsuchi, Shizuka was at least at the level of a chunin, and a mature, attractive kunoichi.

He clicked on Shizuka's avatar and her information appeared:

C-rank Ninja: Shizuka

- Fragments: 11/10

- Recruit?

Recruit!

A notification sounded:

Ding! Congratulations, Charles Doyle, you have successfully recruited 1-star C-rank ninja, Shizuka.

In the next moment, an image appeared before Charles, showing Shizuka in armor, holding a ninja sword, and standing confidently in a forest.

Admiring her beautiful appearance and fiery figure, Charles had an idea: perhaps she could be his new secretary?

Charles checked the details of Shizuka's abilities:

Shizuka: C-rank Ninja

- Star Level: 1-star

- Basic Attack: Fushin-ryu Taijutsu Attack + Wind Release Combo!

- Substitution Jutsu: Wood Substitute

- Skills:

 - Fushin-ryu: Gale Fist: Charges chakra in the palm, then dashes forward, leaving explosive chakra residue.

 - Fushin-ryu: Dash Step: Quickly moves forward to evade attacks.

 - Fushin-ryu: Vacuum Dance: Jumps and spins, throwing numerous kunai at enemies.

Charles found her skills to be on par with a chunin, possibly reaching special jounin level with wind release techniques.

Besides her combat prowess, Shizuka's appearance was quite impressive. Accepting her increased his chakra by another unit, reaching 270 units.

Charles had now recruited all available ninjas. Next, he would prepare for the upcoming meeting to merge cards and consider which ninja to deploy next.

…

Natasha, following orders, flew with a team of SHIELD agents to Bruce Banner's hideout. SHIELD had been tracking Banner's whereabouts for some time.

Upon arrival, Natasha quickly set up an operation, using a small bribe to have a young girl lure Banner into a room. Watching the girl escape through a window, Banner remarked, "I should have taken the money first."

Banner was unconcerned about any trap. Except for the presence of a certain woman, Banner knew no one could threaten him when he transformed into the Hulk.

At this time, a woman spoke from behind him, "For someone who should avoid stress, you sure picked a great place to live."

Turning, Banner saw Natasha Romanoff and replied, "Avoiding stress isn't my forte."

Banner glanced around, assessing the environment. "Smart move, leading me to the suburbs. We're surrounded, aren't we?"

"It's just you and me," Natasha responded.

"Where's your little actress? Is she a spy too? Starting young, huh?" Banner retorted.

"I was like that at her age," Natasha replied calmly.

"Who are you?" Banner asked.

"Natasha Romanoff," she introduced herself.

After a moment's thought, Banner asked, "Ms. Romanoff, are you here to kill me? I'm not easily killed."

Natasha explained, "No, of course not."

"I'm here on behalf of S.H.I.E.L.D."

Bruce Banner repeated the name, "S.H.I.E.L.D.?"

Then he asked, "How did they find me?"

Natasha replied, "We've been keeping track of your whereabouts, Doctor."

"We've just kept our distance, even driving away some curious parties."

Bruce Banner asked, "Why?"

"Nick Fury seems to trust you, but now you have to come with me."

"And if I don't want to go?"

Natasha smiled and said, "I'll persuade you."

Bruce Banner was silent for a second before continuing, "What if... that guy doesn't want to go?"

"You haven't transformed in over a year. I think you don't want to break that streak."

"It's not always up to you."

"Doctor, we're facing a global catastrophe."

Bruce Banner scoffed, "Well, I've been trying to avoid that."

Natasha then took out her phone, pulled up a picture of the Tesseract, placed the phone on the table, and said:

"This is the Tesseract. It has the power to destroy the entire Earth."

Bruce Banner put on his glasses, picked up the phone, and studied the image.

"So, what does Nick Fury want me to do, eat it?"

Natasha replied, "He wants you to find it. It's been stolen."

"It emits a gamma signal too weak for us to track."

"And you're the most knowledgeable person about gamma radiation, so I'm here to find you."

Bruce Banner removed his glasses and said, "So Nick Fury didn't send you here to capture the monster?"

"That's not what he told me."

"Does he tell you everything?"

"Go talk to Nick Fury. He needs your help."

"What if he wants to lock me up?"

"No one will lock you up."

Bruce Banner yelled angrily, "Stop lying to me!"

Natasha immediately pulled out a gun from under the table and pointed it at Bruce Banner. Agents outside the room quickly approached with their guns drawn.

Seeing the gun, Bruce Banner smiled and said, "Sorry, I shouldn't have been so harsh."

"I just wanted to test you."

Seeing Natasha's serious expression, Bruce Banner waved his hand and said:

"Okay, let's talk this out."

"You put the gun away, and I'll make sure that guy won't come out."

"Deal? Natasha."

Natasha looked at Bruce Banner for a moment, then pressed her earpiece and said, "Stand down, everything is normal."

-----6-----

·Chapter 616: Arrangements

S.H.I.E.L.D. Triskelion-

In the conference room-

Nick Fury had just briefed the United Nations Security Council on his emergency plan.

Besides the agents who had received the physical enhancement serum, he proposed getting help of the Hulk, Bruce Banner; Iron Man, Tony Stark; and the recently awakened Captain America, Steve Rogers.

Looking at the council members appearing through the virtual screen, one council member spoke up:

"You've gone too far, Director Fury."

"You're talking about forces you can't control."

Nick Fury didn't follow the council member's lead, instead, he asked, "Councilor, have you ever fought in a war?"

"Have you ever experienced the need for absolute control?"

The councilor asked, "Are you saying this alien has declared war on Earth?"

"Yes, Councilor."

"The alien came directly to steal the Tesseract, clearly a premeditated act."

"So, in response to this sudden situation, we need an emergency response team."

The councilor paused for a moment before saying, "The Avengers Initiative has already been canceled."

Nick Fury countered, "I'm not referring to the Avengers."

The councilor said, "I've seen that list. You have a top-secret global espionage organization, and yet you want to entrust humanity's fate to a group of freaks?"

"I'm not handing anything over to anyone, but we do need an emergency response team."

"These individuals might be solitary, even abnormal."

"But I believe that with the right motivation, they can provide the help we need."

A female councilor asked, "Do you believe that?"

The male councilor who had spoken earlier said, "Emotions don't win wars, Director."

"That's right, only soldiers do."

Despite the initial resistance, Nick Fury's persuasive skills eventually convinced the Security Council.

They approved his request to form the emergency response team, agreeing to recruit the necessary personnel according to Fury's plan, but they also stressed that this alien threat must be neutralized.

With the council's approval, Nick Fury immediately went to find Steve Rogers, who was adapting to his enhanced body in the base's gym.

Steve Rogers was currently punching an iron dummy. After the second round of physical enhancement serum, punching bags were no longer effective for him.

Steve Rogers' fists hammered the iron dummy, each punch leaving a deep dent.

As he continued to punch, Steve's mind wandered back to the wartime era, battling Hydra, crashing the plane into the ocean, and remembering the woman he had missed his date with.

Fueled by anger, Steve Rogers eventually punched straight through the dummy.

Looking at his handiwork, he shook his head, marveling at how his strength had increased after waking up.

Just as Steve was about to practice his speed, Nick Fury entered the gym and asked:

"Can't sleep?"

"I slept for 70 years."

"I think I've slept enough."

Nick Fury walked toward Rogers and said, "Then you should get out and take a walk."

"Celebrate a bit, see the world."

Rogers glanced at Nick Fury and said, "When I was reflecting, the world was still at war."

"When I woke up, they said the war was won, but they didn't mention what we lost."

"And I don't understand, if the war is over, why was I given the enhancement serum again?"

Nick Fury, looking serious, said, "We've been making mistakes all along, some of which continue to this day."

"Are you here to talk about a mission, Director?"

"Yes."

"I figured that giving me that stuff to enhance my abilities was just to make me keep fighting for you."

"It's to help you save the world."

Nick Fury handed the mission briefing to Steve Rogers.

Steve Rogers took the file from Fury and opened the first page, seeing it labeled as a S.H.I.E.L.D. level 7 file.

Seeing the Tesseract on the document, Rogers murmured, "Hydra's secret weapon."

Nick Fury explained, "Howard Stark recovered it from the ocean while searching for you."

"He, like us, believed the Tesseract was key to developing unlimited energy."

"This is the power humanity desperately needs."

Steve Rogers closed the file and asked, "Who took it?"

"An alien. If you join, there's a lot you'll need to know."

"The world has changed in ways that will seem strange compared to your memories."

But Steve Rogers wasn't surprised; he simply said, "At this point, I don't think anything can surprise me."

Nick Fury replied, "I'll bet ten bucks you'll take back those words."

"I've placed the mission information in your apartment. Do you have anything to say about the Tesseract?"

As Rogers turned to leave, he said, "You shouldn't have recovered it."

…

Elsewhere-

Tony Stark had just returned to the rooftop of Stark Tower after disconnecting the building's power grid under the sea.

Before he could share a few tender moments with Pepper, JARVIS's voice interrupted.

"Sir, Agent Coulson from S.H.I.E.L.D. is on the phone."

"Tell him I'm out."

"Yes, sir."

Tony, in the process of removing his Iron Man suit, smiled at the view and said, "I am indeed out."

"Sir, he insists on speaking with you."

"Be more assertive, JARVIS."

"I have a date later."

Pepper, looking at the power grid diagram and information display, said, "The power supply is stable."

Tony, stepping inside, proudly said, "Of course, I handled it personally."

"By the way, I've been wondering, Pepper, how does it feel to be a genius?"

Pepper laughed and said, "How would I know?"

Tony Stark retorted, "What are you talking about? The successful transformation of Stark Industries is all thanks to you."

Pepper Potts pointed to the latest arc reactor on Tony's chest and said, "No, it's all thanks to this."

"Come on, don't be so modest."

"Stark Tower is like your baby; you deserve twelve percent of the credit."

Pepper, displeased, replied, "Only twelve percent?"

Tony said, "We could negotiate it up to fifteen percent."

Pepper walked towards the dining table, pouring champagne as she said, "My baby, and I only get twelve percent of the credit."

Tony explained, "Well, I did most of the heavy lifting."

"Literally, I moved all the heavy stuff."

At that moment, Tony noticed his private elevator was operating automatically and said, "And by the way, how about security breaches? That should be on you."

"My private elevator."

Pepper, now at the table, picked up a bottle of champagne and started pouring. "You mean our elevator, right?"

As Tony continued to flirt with Pepper, JARVIS's voice suddenly came through:

"Apologies, sir. My programming might have been tampered with. Your call has been connected."

Agent Coulson's voice then came through the phone, "Stark, we need to talk."

Tony picked up the phone and spoke to the screen, "You are now seeing a virtual image of Tony Stark. Please leave a message."

"It's urgent."

"Then say it urgently."

Pepper couldn't help but laugh at Tony's antics.

At that moment, the elevator doors opened, and Coulson walked in.

Tony, looking at Pepper, quipped, "See, security breach. That's on you."

Coulson greeted Tony, "Mr. Stark."

Pepper turned and said, "Phil, come on in."

Coulson entered, saying, "I can't stay long."

As Pepper walked over to welcome him, Tony followed and said, "Phil? I thought his name was Agent."

Pepper said, "Come in, we're celebrating."

Tony, however, was trying to get rid of Coulson, "He just said he can't stay long."

Coulson took out a notebook and said, "So please look at this quickly."

Seeing the notebook, Tony said, "I don't like being handed things."

Pepper quickly intervened, "It's okay, I like being handed things."

Pepper took the notebook from Coulson and handed it to Tony.

As Tony accepted it, he said, "My official consultation hours are every Thursday from eight to five."

This was Tony Stark's formal consulting time as an advisor to S.H.I.E.L.D.

Coulson responded, "This isn't an official consultation."

Pepper asked, "Is this about the Avengers Initiative?"

Coulson, slightly exasperated, looked at Pepper, thinking to himself how involved Tony had gotten her.

Being his girlfriend, she knew everything.

Seeing Coulson's serious expression, Pepper Potts waved her hand and said, "I don't know anything about that."

Tony turned and opened his computer, walking as he said, "Wasn't the Avengers Initiative scrapped?"

"Besides, I don't want to join any Avengers."

Pepper Potts explained, "I know nothing about this either."

Tony moved to his desk and linked his computer to his AI, JARVIS.

He then synced all the video files from the computer to the virtual screen in his office.

Soon, the files displayed information about the Hulk, Bruce Banner, the recently thawed Captain America, Steve Rogers, Thor Odinson, and the Tesseract being stolen.

Seeing these, Pepper Potts said, "I'll fly to Washington tonight."

Tony tried to persuade her, "How about tomorrow?"

"You have a lot of work to do."

"What if I say I don't?"

Pepper then whispered something into Tony's ear.

Hearing this, Tony's face lit up with a smile. He then said, "Deal. Have a safe trip."

Pepper Potts kissed Tony Stark and said, "Work hard."

She then turned and left the office, preparing to fly to Washington overnight to oversee the implementation of clean energy in three landmark buildings.

Seeing that he had handled Tony Stark, Coulson didn't linger either. The mission details were all in the files. He left the building with Pepper Potts.

…

The next day-

In the conference room at the Charles Base-

Charles Doyle sat at the head of the table, looking at the group of ninjas below: Tsunade, Orochimaru, Jiraiya, Shizune, Iruka Umino, Kakashi Hatake, Yamato, Might Guy, Kurenai Yuhi, Asuma Sarutobi, Minato Namikaze, Kushina Uzumaki, and other adult ninjas.

On the other side were Tenten, Neji Hyuga, Rock Lee, Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, Hinata Hyuga, Shino Aburame, Kiba Inuzuka, Shikamaru Nara, Ino Yamanaka, Choji Akimichi, Obito Uchiha, and Hanabi Hyuga.

Charles noticed that he had 26 ninjas here, not counting those stationed at the three ninja villages and Kabuto Yakushi.

Unknowingly, his ninja force had grown to 43.

Besides these ninjas, there were Ginny, John Wick, Wesley, Cross, Selene, and Michael among his followers.

Other werewolves who had joined them didn't have the qualifications to attend this meeting, including Eddie, the Venom host.

Charles scanned the ninjas around him and then said, "According to the information I received, a major alien invasion will soon occur in New York."

"The enemy is a large group of aliens. Fortunately, although they are numerous, they are not very strong. As long as you take it seriously, there should be no life-threatening danger."

"I've gathered you here today to inform you that war is imminent. You need to prepare, and I have some tasks to assign to you."

Hearing that the enemy was weak, everyone breathed a sigh of relief and waited for Charles's orders.

"Over the years, I've established three orphanages in New York. To prevent them from being affected by the war, Iruka Umino, Shizune, Hanabi Hyuga, and Obito Uchiha, you four will guard the Hope Orphanage in Hell's Kitchen to protect it from any attacks."

"This mission will be classified as an A-rank mission."

"Yes, Lord Charles!"

The four of them responded.

Hinata Hyuga and Neji Hyuga were a bit worried about Hanabi Hyuga, who was the weakest among the ninjas here and hadn't formally become a ninja yet.

"Team 8—Hinata Hyuga, Kiba Inuzuka, and Shino Aburame—you will be responsible for the security of the Hope Orphanage's second branch."

"Yes, Lord Charles!"

"Team 10—Shikamaru Nara, Ino Yamanaka, and Choji Akimichi—you three will be responsible for the security of the Hope Orphanage's third branch."

"Yes, Lord Charles!"

Quickly, Charles assigned the weakest ninjas to protect the orphanages.

-----7------

·Chapter 617: Team 7's Choice

Having assigned the weakest ninjas to protect the orphanages, Charles felt a lot more at ease regarding those locations.

Although he was unsure if the appearance of the Chitauri invasion force would change due to his presence, based on his memories, the Chitauri invasion didn't just affect the areas where the Avengers were present but covered the entirety of New York.

However, it likely hadn't spread beyond New York.

After some thought, Charles Doyle continued, "Ginny, you'll be responsible for leading the werewolves and Eddie with Venom to protect my various industries and bases in New York, ensuring they don't suffer massive losses due to the alien invasion."

"Yes, Boss!"

"As for John Wick, Wesley, Cross, Selene, and Michael, the five of you will stay at the Charles Agency to protect its safety."

"Yes, Boss!"

Looking at the remaining ninjas who hadn't been assigned tasks yet, Charles said, "As for the rest of you, when the war comes, you'll join me in exterminating the alien invaders."

"Yes, Lord Charles."

Seeing everyone nod in agreement, Charles continued, "Alright, those are the specific tasks. If you have any questions, you can ask now."

The Sannin who had experienced war looked more solemn than the others. At this moment, Orochimaru, one of the sannin, spoke up:

"Lord Charles, who exactly is our enemy this time? How many of them are there, and what is their strength?"

"How will they appear, where will the main battlefield be, and what is our objective in this war?"

For ninjas, intelligence is extremely important. After Orochimaru spoke, everyone looked towards Charles.

Charles said, "According to my information, the one planning to attack Earth is Loki, the second prince of Asgard. He will lead the Chitauri army to invade Earth."

"As for the exact number, it's hard to determine, but I can say the number will be very large."

"The strength of this army is that they are aliens with advanced technology, far beyond Earth's current tech, using energy weapons."

"However, their personal combat ability is weak, and their defense is fragile. Their individual soldiers are not even as strong as a ninja academy student. They are not to be feared."

"The only concern is their numbers. For jonins and Kage-level ninjas, the number of enemies is irrelevant. But for lower-ranking ninjas, it's crucial not to get surrounded or focused on by the enemy."

"The strongest in their ranks are the Chitauri Leviathans, but Kage-level ninjas should be able to take them down."

"They will descend through a space portal appearing above New York. The main battlefield will likely spread out from Stark Tower, affecting the entire city of New York."

"Currently, we know that the Tesseract has been stolen by Loki. Our objective in this war is to retrieve the Tesseract."

Hearing that the individual strength of the enemies was only at the level of ninja academy students, everyone nodded in agreement. Their strength is indeed not a cause for concern; their numbers won't matter.

However, Tsunade asked, "Asgard is invading Earth?"

Tsunade knew about Asgard. She was well aware of Charles Doyle's mission to an alien planet on the orders of Odin. She remembered Charles mentioning that Odin was an immensely powerful being.

Charles shook his head. "It's not Asgard as a whole, just Prince Loki acting on his own."

"Due to Loki's self-imposed exile, the Asgardians believe he has already perished."

Jiraiya, curious, asked, "What exactly is the Tesseract, and what does it look like?"

Charles explained, "The energy blocks we traded with S.H.I.E.L.D. were produced using the Tesseract."

"It looks like a blue cube, containing a vast amount of energy."

"I will personally retrieve the Tesseract when the time comes."

Hearing that Charles would personally handle the retrieval, the group felt reassured, knowing that if Charles intervened, success was guaranteed.

Charles looked at the gathered ninjas and continued, "Today's meeting is to inform you of this situation. Everyone needs to prepare, making sure all ninja tools and explosive tags are fully stocked."

"After the meeting, Sakura Haruno, Sasuke Uchiha, and Naruto Uzumaki, please stay behind."

"The meeting is now adjourned."

Hearing that Sakura, Sasuke, and Naruto were asked to stay, the other ninjas showed expressions of envy. They knew that being called by Lord Charles meant something good was in store.

Kakashi Hatake and Obito Uchiha followed Minato Namikaze out of the meeting room.

Once everyone else had left, leaving only Team 7, Charles spoke:

"Naruto, I have a question for you to consider carefully."

Naruto, smiling brightly, said, "Go ahead, Lord Charles. I'll think it through."

Charles looked at him and said, "I've pulled another future version of you from the river of time. This one is from three years after you trained with Jiraiya."

"If you merge with this future self, your strength will increase significantly. However, you will age rapidly and miss out on experiencing your parents' care at your current age."

Naruto was taken aback, not expecting Charles to have pulled another future self for him, especially one from three years ahead.

After thinking for a moment, he asked, "Lord Charles, with my current strength, can I get through this alien invasion?"

Charles smiled and said, "As long as you don't deliberately seek death, these enemies are very weak compared to you."

Hearing this, Naruto grinned and said, "Lord Charles, I think I'll merge with my future self later. I want to spend more time with my parents now."

Charles nodded. "Alright, there's nothing more for you here. Go see your parents."

"Thanks, Lord Charles."

After expressing his gratitude, Naruto darted off swiftly.

Sasuke Uchiha watched Naruto with a hint of envy. Naruto's parents had been resurrected and brought to this world by Lord Charles.

Now he knew that this dead-last companion of his wasn't just some ordinary civilian but had a significant and influential background. He was the son of the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze.

No wonder he had been able to keep up with him and even surpassed him recently. In the original world, Naruto's parents had died when he was born, but here, Sasuke envied Naruto a little.

With his determined gaze, he thought about his own brother and Obito, who were also brought here by Lord Charles.

He believed that one day, Lord Charles would bring his parents to this world too, and he could restore the Uchiha clan's glory.

Sakura Haruno felt even more envious of Naruto than Sasuke did.

This teammate who had been bullied since childhood had not only quickly surpassed her in strength after graduation but also had an illustrious lineage, with his parents now by his side.

Sakura worried whether Lord Charles would bring her parents from the river of time as well.

Even though her parents were just ordinary chunin with no distinguished background, it would still be a joyous event if they could be brought here.

After Naruto left, Charles turned his attention to Sasuke and Sakura. "Sasuke, Sakura, like Naruto, I've brought your future selves from three years ahead. What is your choice?"

Sasuke responded firmly, "Lord Charles, I choose to merge."

Sakura, seeing Sasuke's decision and thinking about her current lack of strength, said, "My choice is the same as Sasuke's, Lord Charles."

Charles nodded, "Good, you've made the right choice."

Charles had asked the three of them mainly because he wanted Naruto to experience more of his parents' love. As for Sasuke and Sakura, it was more of a secondary consideration.

The upcoming battle in New York wouldn't be significantly affected by the absence of a few high-level combatants. Ultimately, only Naruto chose not to merge immediately.

Charles's consciousness entered the system space, where he retrieved the Uchiha Sasuke · Fusion ninja card.

"Ding! Would you like to recall Uchiha Sasuke?"

"Yes!"

With Charles's confirmation, Sasuke disappeared from the meeting room, leaving Sakura wide-eyed in astonishment.

Charles then took out the Uchiha Sasuke · Fusion card and the Shippuden Sasuke card.

"Ding! Would you like to merge Shippuden Uchiha Sasuke with Uchiha Sasuke · Fusion?"

"Yes!"

With Charles's confirmation, the two cards began to spin rapidly. After a burst of golden light, they transformed into a new ninja card: Uchiha Sasuke · Fusion.

Thus, Sasuke Uchiha had now merged four ninja cards, significantly boosting his strength once again.

Charles glanced at the newly merged ninja card and noticed that Sasuke had significantly enhanced skills, including a new weapon, the Kusanagi sword.

He placed the merged card back into the battle slot and chose to materialize Sasuke within a three-meter radius. With a quick operation, Sasuke reappeared in the meeting room.

Sakura Haruno, seeing Sasuke back and looking even more handsome than before, couldn't help but whisper, "Future Sasuke is even cooler..."

As Sasuke absorbed his new memories, the still-dazed Sakura was swiftly withdrawn by Charles from the battle slot for her own merge process.

Following the same procedure, the newly enhanced Sakura · Fusion card emerged, though her enhancement wasn't as extensive as Naruto's or Sasuke's, since it was only a two-card fusion compared to their four.

While the fusion significantly boosted Sakura's abilities, it couldn't match the sheer power increase Naruto and Sasuke received.

Nevertheless, this Sakura, combined with her younger self, was much stronger than her original self at the same age, reaching the level of a seasoned jonin.

In the meeting room, Sasuke finished absorbing his three years of memories. He recalled training under Orochimaru, honing his abilities, especially his lightning techniques, and developing new combat skills.

However, he noticed that his current self was far more powerful than the memory version, with an abundance of chakra and heightened Sharingan power, still in its three-tomoe form but brimming with potential.

Respectfully, Sasuke looked at Charles and said, "Thank you, Lord Charles."

Meanwhile, Sakura was materialized and started absorbing her memories. She felt a wave of happiness as she learned she had trained under the Fifth Hokage, Tsunade, for three years.

Although she hadn't mastered the Yin Seal or Byakugou no Jutsu, she had gained Chakra Enhanced strength and extensive medical knowledge, making her feel immensely empowered.

Moreover, unlike in her memories, Sasuke now hadn't defected but stayed with them under Charles's guidance, making her feel doubly joyous.

Determined, Sakura thought to herself, "Sasuke, Naruto, this time I, Sakura Haruno, will catch up to you."

Opening her eyes with a bright smile, Sakura said, "Thank you, Lord Charles."

Charles, seeing both of them awake and well, addressed them, "Good. It seems you've both assimilated the memories of your future selves. Your strength has greatly increased. Remember to perform well in the upcoming Battle of New York."

Both responded in unison, "Yes, Lord Charles."

-----------