Chapter 109 Stephen Strange

Arthur escorted Stephen Strange to a luxurious restaurant, the exclusive dining establishment operated by Jack and known as Atlantis.

The Atlantis Restaurant had expanded from its initial six locations to eighteen branches, fueled by the growing fame of the Avengers, which drew crowds from far and wide.

On numerous occasions, diners at the Atlantis Restaurant had encountered members of the Avengers, with Tony Stark and Colonel Rhodes emerging as particularly frequent visitors.

Naturally, the other Avengers were also regulars at Atlantis, and Arthur had even suggested that the restaurant could serve as the team's informal cafeteria.

Consequently, the Atlantis Restaurant rapidly gained widespread acclaim for its affordable yet exquisite cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients and flavors that were distinctly authentic Chinese cuisine—a fact that explained why so many patrons chose to dine there.

The restaurant also opened branches in Los Angeles, New York, and London, strategically targeting the high-end market with three Michelin-starred establishments.

Originally, the six companions of Atlantis had all transitioned from employees to millionaires, yet they still cherished the memories of their days at a small seaside eatery.

In those times, they could often spot Arthur, and gatherings at Arthur's home were common, but over the past two years, Arthur had been largely absent from home, and visits to him were limited to encounters with Wanda and Pietro.

Recently, both Wanda and Pietro had taken on missions with the Avengers, leaving no opportunity for further meetings. Everyone understood Arthur's busyness, so they refrained from reaching out.

Upon receiving news that Arthur would bring a guest to the restaurant, Jack was overjoyed, having not seen him in six months.

Arthur arrived at the Atlantis Restaurant entrance in Stephen Strange's supercar, his gaze falling on the statue in the fountain pool, which struck him as remarkably familiar.

It depicted himself—a figure wearing a crown, armored, and wielding a trident. Jack's exaggeration left Arthur feeling as if he were destined for eternal glory.

Staring at the towering five-meter-plus sculpture, Arthur felt a bit self-conscious, and Stephen Strange observed it as well.

"This restaurant truly has a unique character," remarked Stephen Strange.

"Haha, although it's my restaurant, I've never been here before, and I'm embarrassed for you to see it. I have no idea why they made it so over-the-top," Arthur replied awkwardly.

Jack was already waiting at the entrance. Seeing Arthur arrive with a man, he immediately approached them.

"Boss, you're here!" Jack exclaimed enthusiastically, gazing at Arthur.

The term "boss" from Arthur's lips stirred deep nostalgia; it was the affectionate title his companions had always used for him.

"You've become CEO, yet you still call me boss. Perhaps I should be calling you boss," Arthur joked.

"In my heart, you will always be the boss. Everything has been arranged. Let's go in," Jack responded.

Leading Arthur and Stephen Strange inside the Atlantis Restaurant, Jack guided them through the opulently designed space. Upon entering, the grandeur was overwhelming, evoking the splendor of Asgard itself.

Arthur and Stephen Strange followed Jack's descriptions, admiring the expansive hall adorned with various Avengers motifs, which felt remarkably impressive.

Several patrons were dining in the hall, where melodious music created an elegant atmosphere for the meal.

"Truly outstanding! As expected from you, Jack," Arthur praised, giving him a thumbs-up.

Jack was thrilled, as receiving the boss's approval was the highest compliment. Jack then escorted Arthur and Stephen Strange to a luxurious private room and withdrew, not wanting to interrupt their conversation.

Once settled, no waiter arrived with menus, as Jack had prearranged the dishes.

"Very honored by your invitation, but I'm curious what business you have with me?" Stephen Strange asked, puzzled. Why would the mighty Arthur, the Sea King, seek him out? He was merely a surgeon; perhaps Arthur wanted him to operate on an injured Avenger or invite him to a hospital funded by the Avengers?

"There is no specific matter; I simply wish to make a friend with you. Through fate, I sense we will have many more interactions in the future," Arthur said mysteriously.

"I don't quite understand what you mean," Stephen Strange replied, even more bewildered.

"Think of me as someone who can foresee the future. You will become an indispensable figure on Earth and a member of the Avengers," Arthur declared.

"Become an Avenger? That's impossible. I'm just a surgeon," Stephen Strange thought Arthur was joking.

"Life's opportunities are filled with uncertainties; who can predict the future?" Arthur shrugged.

"I'm still not clear," Stephen Strange said.

"You will understand soon. I promise to assist you once you join the Avengers," Arthur replied.

At that moment, the Atlantis Restaurant waiters wheeled in a serving cart and began presenting the dishes. There were many courses, with eight authentic Chinese dishes—Arthur's favorites—on the table: braised pork, Kung Pao chicken, crispy roast duck, chicken in chili sauce, spicy hotpot, pot-baked pork, boiled beef, and oil-braised prawns. Additional American dishes and a bottle of red wine accompanied them.

"I hope you enjoy Chinese cuisine. I'm particularly fond of Chinese food, so I brought you here to sample it. Our Atlantis Restaurant has hired several renowned Chinese chefs to ensure the dishes are perfectly authentic," Arthur informed Stephen Strange.

"I've never tried Chinese food. You see, my work in the hospital is quite time-consuming, leaving little opportunity to explore these delicacies. Today, experiencing their taste is a wonderful opportunity, and I'm truly grateful," Stephen Strange said.

Arthur introduced each dish to Stephen Strange and recounted their origins.

After tasting them, Stephen Strange found Chinese cuisine remarkably superior to American dishes, with its rich and complex flavors beyond description. Two words sufficed: delicious!

Once he sampled it, Stephen Strange fell in love with Chinese food and declared he would return to the restaurant often.

Arthur presented him with a VIP guest card, allowing future visits without reservations. Stephen Strange thanked Arthur profusely.

Their meal was delightful, filled with conversation. Stephen Strange was a proud individual, confident in his medical expertise.

In conversing with him, Arthur sensed his profound medical knowledge and his engaging personality, making Arthur very happy to have made such a friend.

Stephen Strange never quite grasped Arthur's intentions but noted the words about the Avengers in his mind, suspecting future connections. He accepted Arthur as a friend.

He found Arthur interesting, someone who appreciated life and had a particular interest in Chinese matters. Arthur even shared the tale of Kamar-Taj, a mystical place on the Himalayas inhabited by a group of sorcerers.

Stephen Strange listened half-believing it, aware that many in the Avengers possessed mysterious powers. Perhaps the magic Arthur spoke of truly existed.

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