Pampering is one thing, but education is essential.
Over the past year, Lily had indeed been allowed to relax. In truth, Leon had never enforced strict training schedules for Lily, Dean, or Connor regarding cultivation. Everything had been left natural.
For him, a complete childhood was paramount. Unlike the Saints he had trained in the past, these three youngsters had loving families. There was no need to pressure them with relentless practice; a proper childhood was the most fitting environment.
So from twelve to thirteen, Lily had indulged herself, and Leon had allowed it. However, upon reaching thirteen, he decided it was time for her to focus on cultivation. Even if she did not need to match the standards of other Saints yet, her progress should not lag behind.
Her innate ability was already remarkable.
During this family picnic, Amy and Ophelia refrained from lecturing, but Leon still felt it necessary to guide her. Fortunately, despite her mischievousness, Lily was sensible.
After Ophelia's gentle admonition, Lily responded obediently: "I understand, Sister Ophelia. I will practice diligently and won't slack off anymore."
"That's good. I won't make you train like an ascetic monk, but your body is entering its golden period. Don't waste this time. With your ability, I'm confident you can catch up," Ophelia said with a kind smile.
To those unfamiliar with her, such gentleness might seem shocking. Outside of Leon's family, Ophelia's aura was typically commanding—majestic, sacred, and untouchable.
Little Dean, naturally, idolized Leon and only wished to grow stronger to assist his brother, to make their domain glorious and dominate the universe. The power of admiration is simple and direct. Kanna, the little white dragon, was even more straightforward; as long as her basic needs were met and she could remain with her family, she was content.
After these small episodes, the family returned to normal life. They enjoyed Amy's recently acquired culinary skills, flattering her, which made her eyes sparkle with pride. She silently vowed to continue learning and perfecting her cooking, aspiring to master both Eastern and Western cuisines, even imagining herself as the greatest chef in the universe.
Laughter and playfulness echoed across the beach.
After eating, the family either played games, wandered along the shoreline, or chatted happily, sharing amusing stories.
Meanwhile, a Quinjet landed in a vacant lot behind the Centralia Police Station in Pennsylvania. The rotor's strong wind scattered leaves and gravel as the engines powered down and the hatch opened. The Avengers stepped out, led by Natasha Romanoff, including Tony Stark in MK armor holding a red suitcase.
"Sir! 々~!" Several agents standing by immediately straightened and saluted.
Though the Avengers operated independently of S.H.I.E.L.D., government agencies still fully supported them. On a professional level, each Avenger was on par with Director Nick Fury. Whether they could command others depended on circumstance, but cooperation was guaranteed.
This mandate came not just from Fury but also from the World Security Council. Avengers required full support from agencies worldwide, including the East, where similar teams were being considered.
Natasha Romanoff and the others wore combat-ready attire, special coats, or carried weapons. Natasha herself had her baton and a necklace with photos of Yelena and Melina, while Bucky brought enhanced gloves. Barton carried a compound bow and two equipment-filled briefcases.
"Agent Wall," Natasha addressed the lead agent, "We'll handle this next. Block a one-kilometer perimeter around Crystal Lake Camp. No entry or exit without authorization. We also need to meet the surviving college students."
"Yes, we are ready. Follow me."
The agents led the Avengers into the police station, where local officers and sheriffs whispered among themselves, awe-struck by their presence.
"Are they the Avengers? So cool.""Are they here about Crystal Lake Camp?""Definitely related to a supernatural event. That murderer can't be human.""Is that Iron Man? His armor is incredible!""Only in your dreams. The armor is worth billions, built with tech from the Chaoyu era by Tony Stark. Even the government would go crazy for it."
Regardless of the speculation, Natasha and her team entered the station's secured lounge, guarded by S.H.I.E.L.D. agents and off-limits to local officers. All agents saluted.
As Natasha, Bucky, and Psylocke stepped into the lounge, a subtle unease passed between them.
"This feeling…" Psylocke frowned, scanning the room.
End of Chapter)
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