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Leaving the restaurant, Michael's lips curved into a sly smile.
He hadn't expected the casual conversation to reveal so much. The unexpected tidbit about Laurel being a virgin particularly caught his attention. Laurel had an undeniable charm, with her striking looks and impressive physique. Yet, knowing the original story, he hadn't found her intriguing before. Now, however, his perception was beginning to shift.
The idea of so-called revenge had come on a whim. Laurel cared deeply about her sister, Sara. With Oliver Queen's miraculous return from the dead, Laurel might have secretly hoped Sara could be alive too. Mentioning Sara would undoubtedly evoke strong emotions in her, and Michael relished the idea of keeping her in suspense.
[System Notification: Second Generation Black Canary (Laurel) - Favorability increased by 50%.]
Michael was taken aback. Fifty percent? He must hold a significant place in her heart. After all, he had saved her, handed her crucial evidence, and dangled the possibility of news about her sister.
Still, it was merely a side concern. His primary objective was gaining the remaining 5% favorability from Oliver Queen. The plan was straightforward: spend the next three days alongside Oliver, sparring and bonding. This would not only boost their camaraderie but also sharpen Michael's combat skills.
Sometimes, though, plans take unexpected turns. As soon as Michael arrived at Oliver's secret base, the system alerted him:
[System Notification: Main quest and side quests completed.]
It turned out Oliver had learned about the evidence Michael had handed to Laurel, which led to Summers' conviction. This had earned Michael the desired increase in favorability, completing both his objectives.
Michael felt an immediate sense of relief. Over the next three days, he sparred with Oliver during the day and absorbed ether particles at night. The routine was not only productive but surprisingly enjoyable.
His progress was remarkable. While his raw physical strength and stamina surpassed Oliver's, Michael initially lacked the finesse and tactical awareness. By the second day, they were evenly matched. By the third, Michael could occasionally gain the upper hand.
"You're a quick learner, Michael." Oliver admitted after a sparring session, "It's like you're a sponge, absorbing everything at lightning speed."
Michael chuckled in agreement, "Experience is the only thing I'm missing now."
As their time together ended, Michael informed Oliver of his departure.
"Leaving already?" Oliver's voice carried a hint of reluctance.
Michael smiled, "I've got other things to handle, but I'm leaving Star City in capable hands."
"Take care." Oliver replied, "And good luck."
Back in his primary world, Michael decided against rushing into another mission plane. He wanted to strategize first, especially with potential threats like the White Queen and Magneto lurking. For now, his focus shifted back to the development of his base.
"System, what are the mission rewards this time?" Michael inquired.
The system's response carried a hint of excitement.
[The rewards are exceptionally generous.]
Satisfied, Michael emerged from his room to check on the ongoing projects. His team had grown used to his sudden disappearances, so his return wasn't surprising.
One of his closest aides, quickly approached, "Boss, I need your input on something."
"What's the issue?" Michael asked casually.
"It's about the construction of our base. Pepper Potts suggested hiring a specialized company. She mentioned a firm called Damage Control. They specialize in cleaning up and rebuilding after superhero battles. They've worked with S.H.I.E.L.D., Stark Industries, and even handled the reconstruction of New York after the Battle of New York. Pepper believes they can finish our base within a month."
Michael raised an eyebrow, "One month? That's impressive. Where's Pepper now?"
"She's waiting for your decision and can arrange a meeting with the company if you're interested."
Michael nodded, "Tell her I want to meet the representatives. If they're as good as she says, this might work."
Pepper arrived promptly, exuding her usual professionalism. She explained Damage Control's history, highlighting their reliability and efficiency. During the Battle of New York, Stark Industries had relied on them for reconstruction, solidifying her trust in their capabilities.
Michael couldn't help but smile at her meticulous demeanor, "Pepper, I'm starting to think I might get too used to having you around. What will I do if you're not here one day?"
Pepper offered a faint smile but said nothing.
"Can you arrange a meeting with Damage Control?" Michael asked.
Pepper nodded, "I know their location. It's better if we visit them directly. You'll get a more thorough understanding of their operations."
Michael agreed, "Alright, let's go. Would you prefer to fly or take a boat?"
Within moments, they were on the move. Pepper opted for flying, finding it quicker and more convenient. Michael conjured an Iron Man-like suit for her, tailored in an elegant dark green.
"How does it feel?" Michael asked as they soared through the air.
Pepper laughed softly, "Much smoother than last time. I could get used to this."
As they flew toward the headquarters of Damage Control, Michael felt a renewed sense of purpose. If the company proved as competent as Pepper claimed, his vision for the base might come to fruition sooner than expected.