Chapter 673: New Gods Emerge Across the Universe (Part 2)

Time returned to a few hours earlier, when Schiller and the others were still inside the Sanctum Sanctorum, studying Stark's ascension.

"I think no matter how thorough our preparations, we can't rule out the possibility of accidents—we should prepare for the worst outcome," Strange said.

"The worst outcome? Probably just a failed ascension?" Natasha flicked her finger and said.

Strange shook his head, emphasizing: "The worst outcome is that the ascension succeeds—and permanently. Tony becomes a Demiurge, meaning humanity will lose him forever."

"I don't understand—must human and Demiurge forms be mutually exclusive?" Connors adjusted his glasses and asked.

Strange sighed, then nodded: "Humans are social beings. It's because of our many needs that we rely on others, form emotional bonds, and build society."

"But Demiurges can infinitely harness cosmic primordial energy—they are, in a sense, perfect beings, no longer bound by physical limits, and thus no longer in need of society."

"Moreover, the alteration of their life structure makes them rely more on energy than matter, transforming their thinking. Few Demiurges retain the vitality they had at birth; each Demiurge and their dimension eventually succumbs to eternal inertia."

"Take, for example, the Star Spirits on the edge of the Eternal Realm—you may have heard me mention them. They have a normal society, communicate, help each other—you might think this is a perfect form of life. But in truth, their numbers dwindle, they grow increasingly indifferent to one another, and their habitats grow ever more scattered."

"Eventually, they become like the Lord of the Crimson Dimension—indifferent to all things, only power stirs a flicker of interest. And in the end, they stop caring even for power and energy; when their energy is exhausted, they fade into oblivion."

"This is the fate of cosmic Demiurges. Though this process is exceedingly long—even a powerful Demiurge like the Lord of the Crimson Dimension may outlast the universe's end—everything has an end. This universe is fair."

As Strange spoke of these things, he seemed melancholy: "Occultism is like this—when something is born, its fate is already sealed. No matter what that fate is, the end always escapes destruction and death."

"So if Tony truly succeeds in ascending, he will no longer be one of us humans, correct?" Connors asked.

"Perhaps at first he can retain a human mindset, but as his emotions gradually weaken, he will grow colder."

"Earth does not permit Demiurges to remain. That's why, as they evolve and grow stronger, they also grow colder, ceasing to care for any life, seeing no one as part of their shared destiny—and in the end, all they bring is destruction," Strange replied.

"No, I will never accept this happening," Stark said firmly: "Even if I must abandon all power, I must remain human. I am proud of my own race."

Every time this issue arose, Stark's answer was always resolute. Even though Demiurges might possess near-infinite lifespans, Stark still took pride in humanity—a short-lived species.

Schiller thought for a moment, then said: "Since you once successfully gave up power before, could you do it again—voluntarily this time?"

"Perhaps. But there's still some risk," Strange said: "Kamar-Taj's research on the origins of Demiurges has never reached a conclusion..."

"Nothing is without risk," Stark interrupted: "Though I've always disliked overusing uncontrolled power, that doesn't mean we should abandon all attempts out of fear. Without trying, there can be no progress."

"I'm merely warning you of possible risks. Ultimately, the choice is yours."

"I'm going up to take a look," Stark decided. "I'll focus especially on Peter. If those troubles truly come from beyond the universe, he could be in grave danger."

Stark frowned; anyone could see his concern.

Strange clapped his shoulder: "If you decide to do this, we'd better go to Kamar-Taj. If anything goes wrong, the Grand Masters can respond immediately."

"Isn't Kamar-Taj forbidden to non-mages?" Schiller asked.

"When was that old rule?" Strange said, surprised. Then he added: "Now, Kamar-Taj is a large, integrated magical research center for study, exchange, and learning. It's no longer just Kamar-Taj mages—anyone with mystical power from around the world is welcome..."

"Everyone here exchanges knowledge, elevating magical power and technique to higher levels. We reward those who contribute by granting them power from our stored reserves, encouraging all mystics to complete Earth's occult history—rediscover new techniques from ancient texts, and predict future developments from current knowledge..."

As he spoke, the group stepped through the portal—and before them no longer stood the ancient grand hall of Kamar-Taj.

All the braziers and pillars had been removed; only the wooden structure and wall-hung drapes remained. Everywhere else stood row upon row of desks, each holding glowing orbs.

Strange reached out and took one: "These store our latest research. Whoever improves upon this foundation may claim the power within the crystal."

Schiller saw mages gathered in small groups around different crystals, discussing.

Some wore suits, others ancient robes; some carried guns, others swords; some had giant pets, and one even had tentacles growing from his back. Strange noticed their stares and explained: "Don't worry—everyone here has passed Earth's Magical Defense Network's screening. Their contracted Demiurges are all registered members. No one will cause trouble."

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Beyond the atrium lay one chamber after another, all converted into dormitories. In the square surrounded by three buildings, activity was lively: besides fighters sparring, their backs were watched by spectral Demiurges munching sunflower seeds.

Mephisto, munching away, said: "Look at my proxy—his beautiful skull is rare even in Hell. And that motorcycle? Ugh, a blunder. I preferred my previous horse..."

Mordo stood coldly beside them, raising his staff: "Fall back! Round three is starting. No liability for accidental injuries..."

"Once again: combatants may use only fixed energy levels, and their Demiurges are bound by the same limits. Anyone who violates this rule bears full responsibility..." Mordo recited mechanically, expressionless.

"Wait! Over there! You! Yes, you—the Demiurge..."

Mordo gave a command; Grand Masters traced the spectral figure to its source, chopped it apart in seconds. Mephisto chuckled: "Served you right for breaking rules—now you're sunflower seeds. Give me another..."

"Is this really okay?" Stark stared at the chaos. "Something feels off."

"That's your imagination," Strange pushed Stark forward. Beyond the halls and square, they entered a building with a domed ceiling—clearly a research center.

At the dome's center pulsed a massive energy source, radiating soft light. Many mages bustled around the glowing orb. Strange turned to Stark: "This is the energy we've accumulated. Most strengthens Earth's Magical Defense Network; a small portion fuels research."

"Observing your ascension is invaluable to Kamar-Taj. We can reimburse the magical energy consumed. Of course, if someone is truly selfless..."

"Reimburse? How?" Schiller's eyes lit up. Strange rolled his eyes: "Don't even think about it. We reimburse actual costs—no loopholes. Put your abacus away..."

Schiller snorted. He and the other mages stepped back. Strange and Stark stood before the orb.

Strange charged Stark's magical core, then said: "Stay alert. When you feel yourself piercing the cosmic barrier, focus entirely on what you wish to observe. Afterward, do not linger—return immediately. Keep the entire process as brief as possible. If you stay too long, no one knows what might happen..."

Stark nodded, signaling understanding. He inserted the core into his Iron Man suit's chest. Instantly, a magnificent magical column shot skyward. A colossal Iron Demiurge silhouette flickered—and vanished into starlight.

From the magical perspective, more was visible: Stark's form grew translucent, countless light points ignited within his body, then dissolved into the cosmic void.

From Stark's viewpoint, he first reached the outer edge of the single universe. Then, with abundant energy, his intellect pierced the barrier. Upon reaching beyond the universe, his multi-threaded vision returned—he could perceive different events across multiple timelines simultaneously.

Stark focused his attention on Peter Parker. Soon, countless versions of Peter Parker swept past him. Most bore a somber expression, far from the bright, cheerful Peter he knew.

Following Peter's story, he saw the Morlun family—a base outside the multiverse, shaped like a Gothic castle, its exterior crimson, wrapped in writhing shadows, dark and terrifying.

Stark concentrated further, peering into the castle's interior. He saw many Morlun members, dressed as vampires, gathered in the great hall, hands on shoulders, heads bowed, whispering prayers. Their voices grew louder.

Just as Stark tried to hear what they were praying for, everyone froze. The family patriarch's face twisted in confusion.

But soon, they bowed again, praying louder. As their prayers swelled, Stark saw golden threads of faith energy seep from their bodies, converging into a single line stretching into the distance.

In the depths of the cosmos, Stark heard their thoughts:

"Focus... focus more... more faith... we must control the new totem... she will bring us greater power..."

"The totem responds... we're nearly there... nearly there..."

As their prayers intensified, Stark gazed far into the distance. At the end of the golden thread, a brilliant light ignited in the starry void...

Three rings illuminated the cosmos. Stark's thoughts raced through the endless star river, and he heard a celestial voice carried by the stars:

"The universe is born and dies; all things end. I emerge from destruction, and I shall bring renewal to all that is destined to perish. I destroy all that is fated to die—and then, I shall... destroy fate itself."

"My name... Adelaide Edward Helen Stark."