Chapter 142: Captain's Peak of Life
"By the way, where's Wanda?"
Quicksilver asked suddenly.
"She's not here. I'm taking her back to Asgard."
Thor gave a strange smile. "After all, we are all unwelcome now, and we could be legally targeted if we're not careful."
The Avengers exchanged uneasy looks.
Given the number of people gathered at the Stark Building, it was impossible for Washington not to know. If they didn't act, it was clear they were simply turning a blind eye.
After all, they dared not touch the Avengers anymore. If forced to confront them, they might preemptively announce the dissolution of the United States...
Silence often means acquiescence, but admitting that the laws were wrong was another matter entirely.
Thor seemed to be making a casual visit. After speaking, he turned around and prepared to leave.
"Are you really not going to take any action?" Stark asked, unable to hold back. "You've saved the world many times. This time—really not going to intervene?"
Thor paused, shook his head, and said, "It's not that I can't intervene. It's just that it requires more than just action. It's a political and ideological issue"
"Actually, the board of directors and Washington have tacitly ceased enforcing the bill. Otherwise, we would have troops here to arrest us. So why is he still..."
Little Spider-Man looked a bit disheartened. "Didn't you say that greater ability comes with greater responsibility?"
"No, kid." To everyone's surprise, it was Stark, who often contradicted Thor, who retorted.
He sighed and spoke solemnly. "The phrase 'greater ability, greater responsibility' is meant to restrain oneself, not to impose moral obligations on others.
In fact, for him, helping now would be akin to endorsing the bill. As he represents Asgard, he cannot accept such a compromise, even if it's just nominal."
Three days later, during a public speech organized by Underwood, Steve faced the camera and announced loudly, "I will not let you down. I will not disappoint your expectations. I have decided to win this election!"
The crowd was silent at first, but soon erupted into cheers.
As the symbol of the American Dream, the Captain received overwhelming support.
Running as a third-party candidate, he naturally faced harsh criticism from the two major parties.
The patriotic entrepreneur and renowned Iron Man was the first to announce his support for Captain Stark Industries, followed by Wilson Fisk, the mayor of New York and a major businessman.
Subsequently, a large number of officials covertly controlled by Kingpin expressed their support for the Captain one by one.
Who is Kingpin? A person who can control even organizations like the FBI. After years of operations, his potential power is unimaginable.
Mobilizing such a vast force simultaneously could significantly impact the direction of the entire country.
Within just a few days, Steve's position was nearly secured.
The results of the general election were as anticipated. Steve won by a landslide and became the first super-powered president in history.
It was a historic day.
At the inauguration ceremony, the Captain addressed the crowd:
"Thank you for being here today. I'll keep this brief. I'm honored to be elected president by the people. But I'm a soldier, not a politician. We are in a crisis right now.
Our nation is falling apart, full of doubts, and on the verge of breaking down. People are panicking."
"The people asked me to be a leader, and I ask the citizens of the United States to stand up for themselves.
My grandmother always said, don't seek challenges in terms of strength but find strength in challenges.
Children, I understand the experience of growing up in despair. I've learned that everyone should do their best.
We must do everything possible to support each other.
No exceptions.
Everyone must reach their potential.
If called upon, I will answer; otherwise, it will be a flat-out refusal."
"Looking at today, our once-great country is torn and divided.
I remember leaving everything behind to answer the call, and now I realize I can do more for my country and reach my full potential.
The crisis requires every one of us to contribute fully, to rebuild national cohesion, and to face the challenges head-on."
"I have decided to answer the call of the people. I accept the election results."
"I, Steve Rogers, Captain of the United States, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President and that I will perform my duty to preserve, protect, and defend our Constitution."
In the crowd, Thor watched the scene with a look of nostalgia.
This outcome could be considered his sole promotion.
Looking at the cheering crowd, Thor suddenly smirked and said, "What if Steve suddenly shouted: 'Hail HYDRA!' at this moment? What would that be like?"
"Pfft—" Laughter erupted.
...And so.