In Marvel With Unique Skill Great Sage (MCU)

"Pepper Potts's shopping records show they recently purchased a mattress, and reports indicate they're processing a green card for him through immigration services."

Coulson leaned back slightly, lowering his voice further.

"We also know he traveled from Afghanistan to the U.S. with Stark and was present at the rescue site when the military retrieved Stark. It's possible he has insight into Stark's escape—or that he's directly connected to the Ten Rings' attack.

"His photos have already been sent to your terminal, but so far, we haven't been able to dig up any information about his identity. I've deployed a team to Afghanistan for further investigation. Should we attempt direct contact?"

On the other end of the line, Nick Fury—Director of S.H.I.E.L.D.—stared at the photograph on his screen. His one eye darkened as he studied the familiar face.

His expression remained grim as he spoke.

"Call your team back, Coulson. I've remembered an old file. If he's connected to that person, you won't find any traces of him—no matter how deep you dig."

"Then… what should we do?" Coulson asked cautiously.

"Permission granted for contact, but stick strictly to protocol. No improvisations."

Coulson hesitated. "Boss, what file are you talking about? Can I see it?"

Fury's voice dropped.

"Sorry, Coulson. You don't have clearance."

….

Two Weeks Later—

Less than half a month later, Lemu Echeverria officially received his permanent green card, granting him legal residency in the U.S.

According to U.S. immigration law, a permanent resident can apply for citizenship after living in the country for five years—or three years if married to a citizen—provided they meet the other requirements.

But Lemu had no plans to change his citizenship.

Even though his birthplace lay countless universes away, the concept of home held special meaning in his heart.

Not even a parallel world's version of his homeland could replace it—let alone America, with its vastly different culture and customs.

Besides, he only knew four people in this world: Pepper, Stark, Colonel Rhodes, and Happy Hogan.

….

Afternoon, Malibu Mansion

Pepper returned from the immigration office, a stack of documents in hand.

She dug out a green card from the pile and handed it to Lemu.

"This is it—the only thing that actually matters. Congratulations, you're now a legal resident."

"Thanks."

Pepper placed two bank cards on the table next, then leaned closer.

She reached out, fingers itching to play with Lemu's long blue hair.

But Lemu ducked away instantly, eyeing her with alarm.

No! I'll go bald!

This woman and her grabby hands—always up to something.

Pepper pouted slightly, looking genuinely disappointed, but quickly recovered with a bright smile.

"Lemu, look at what we got you—spending money!"

She tapped the first card.

"This one gets $5,000 deposited every month—courtesy of Tony."

Then she tapped the second.

"This one's from me. It gets $1,000 every month."

She clasped her hands together, looking hopeful.

"Are you sure you don't want to reconsider? I'd love to adopt you. You're cute, well-mannered, and so talented!

"My house might not be as big as Tony's, but it's got plenty of rooms—you can even pick your favorite!"

Pepper genuinely liked this kid—not just for his striking appearance or his tragic backstory, but for the way he carried himself through adversity.

His resilience, independence, and ability to maintain a kind and pure heart despite everything he'd endured left a lasting impression.

If Stark had overheard her thoughts, he'd probably scoff and roll his eyes.

"Women. You're just blinded by his looks."

$6,000 a month.

That came to $72,000 a year—more than the median household income in the U.S. and close to one-fifth of the President's salary.

For reference, plenty of Americans lived comfortably on $2,000 a month.

Lemu, of course, had billions at his disposal.

But he wasn't the type to be ungrateful.

In a foreign land, finding someone willing to help without asking for anything in return—that was rare.

His gaze softened as he looked at Pepper.

For the first time, something stirred in his chest—a warmth that even his slime-like body couldn't suppress.

Lemu casually tossed the green card and the $5,000 card from Stark into Big Claw's repaired frame for safekeeping.

Then, with deliberate care, he slipped Pepper's $1,000 card into his pocket.

He stepped forward and gave her a gentle hug.

"Thank you—for everything. And for taking care of me these past few days."

"But… I'm sorry. I still don't want to be adopted."

Pepper finally got her chance—her fingers brushed through Lemu's long blue hair as her smile widened in satisfaction.

Mission accomplished.

She patted his head lightly, her tone warm and reassuring.

"No need to apologize. I was the one pushing too hard. Just promise me—if you ever need help, come to me, okay?"

"Tony's… well, you've seen how he is. He's a little unpredictable sometimes."

"Ahem."

Tony Stark's voice broke the moment.

He emerged from the workshop, stepping into the room just in time to catch Pepper's last remark.

"I couldn't help but overhear someone badmouthing me. Potts, any idea who that might've been?"

Pepper didn't even blink.

"Sorry, Mr. Stark. Miss Potts didn't hear a thing. You must be imagining it."

She quickly changed the subject.

"Oh, and one more thing. Have you thought about Lemu's education? He's about the right age for high school."

High school?

Both Lemu and Stark stared at her as if she'd lost her mind.

Seriously?

I'm an alien slime with advanced tech knowledge. Do I look like I need school?

Stark collapsed onto the sofa, legs casually crossed, eyes scanning the table in search of snacks.

Nothing. Not even crumbs.

Guess he'd have to order food.

"I don't see the point in sending him to school. It'd just be a waste of time."

Pepper's brow furrowed—a rare show of disagreement.

"How is it a waste? School isn't just about learning—it's about making friends, earning credentials, and preparing for the future. That's important!"

Stark didn't miss a beat.

"You're not getting it. Based on Lemu's knowledge level, he could probably pass as a college student already."

Then he added, with a smirk:

"Granted, probably the kind you'd find at the bottom of the rankings."

Ouch.

Stark, of course, knew exactly how smart Lemu was.

New chapter… Power Stonezzz…