"Still somewhat useful!"
Hearing Nick Fury's answer, Mr. Hawking nodded.
The reason he had never gotten rid of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Nick Fury was because he valued the role they played at times like this.
The complexity of the human heart made it impossible for humanity to live by idealism alone. There could not be only light without darkness, nor could true equality for everyone ever be achieved.
Even if he used absolute force to eliminate every national government and establish a unified nation, the conflicts that followed would not disappear. There might even be more of them.
So, he felt it was best for Earth to maintain the status quo. It also spared him the trouble, since his goal was to improve his own strength, not unite the world.
And maintaining the status quo meant dealing with governments around the world. Given the vigilance those national leaders had toward the Hero Alliance, having the legitimate S.H.I.E.L.D. handle certain matters was more convenient and efficient than having the Hero Alliance step in.
"Come here!"
The enormous head, shaped like a six-dot tile, locked onto Ajak on the sanctuary rooftop. Arishem the Judge raised a hand, and Ajak immediately transformed into a streak of aurora and landed in his palm, which was as large as a city.
"I understand. Go back and prepare to welcome the God Manifestation."
After reading through Ajak's memories and confirming that she had not lied, Arishem gave his order.
Ajak froze in shock.
"Great Celestial, the God Manifestation is happening this early? Shouldn't there still be four years left?"
"There were four years left before, but not anymore. Once the Planet Devourer has been dealt with, the God Manifestation can begin and Tiamut can be welcomed. Ajak, you have done well over these years."
Arishem rarely offered