Chapter 11 Rod: Captain and Tony bully me, a single dog
"Ding, you have gained the trait Soulmate."
"Ding, you have gained Tarot Martial Arts."
Tarot Martial Arts, even without the use of Qi Gong, was a top-tier fighting technique. It inherited ancient Eastern martial arts, and its shadow could be seen in postmodern Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and military combat.
What surprised Steve most was that it actually included Qinggong! Wall-running and roof-hopping were not a problem, and with the continuous drive of internal energy, he could even glide, which was incredibly cool!
Rhodes quickly arrived, taking out the trophy he had previously awarded and placing it on the gambling table. "For you."
Knowing that Tony wouldn't borrow other people's things, he simply placed it next to him, letting him take it himself.
Tony glanced at the trophy; he had hundreds of such trophies at home. They were all used as wine racks. What was the point of this thing!
Pointing towards the restaurant, he said, "Over there. It's yours. I'll make a move first."
Steve and Pepper walked towards him, preparing to go to the movies. After the movie, they would have a late-night snack, and after the snack, they would have a reason to say it was late and stay overnight at her apartment!
Perfect! Absolutely perfect!
"Hello, Captain, I'm Rhodes, a Major in the Air Force and the liaison for Stark Industries." Rhodes was a little excited when he saw Steve. An idol! This was an idol for many soldiers!
To be treated as a hero and constantly publicized, that was their constant pursuit!
Who could refuse fame and fortune?
Steve, however, was unimpressed. This was merely the U.S. Congress's desperate attempt to squeeze out his remaining value. After all, a 'dead man' had no family. Even if he was publicized, others wouldn't benefit; all the benefits would be theirs. Why not?
He just didn't expect Captain America to be alive! He was dug out of the ice, which meant that the early publicity and deeply ingrained image could easily be taken advantage of by Steve!
"Hello, I often hear Tony mention you. You're a good friend of his. Nice to meet you for the first time. Is there something I can help you with?" Steve exchanged pleasantries; he was in a hurry to go on a date with Pepper.
Seventy years of being frozen, he had to get back everything he had lost! His electric motor was already impatient!
So direct?
Rhodes didn't hide anything. He walked out with Steve, talking as they went, "It's like this, Captain. In three days, Tony and I will go to Afghanistan for a weapons exhibition. I'd like to invite the Captain to come along. What do you think, Captain?"
"Middle East? Weapons exhibition?" Steve's eyes lit up. Wasn't this the birth of Iron Man? Interesting.
"Alright, I'll go. You'd best report to S.H.I.E.L.D. I need to get my shield back."
"No problem, I'm very happy to cooperate with the Captain." Rhodes was too excited. If there were any special circumstances, perhaps he could even see the Captain's strength!
They arrived at the hotel entrance.
They happened to see Tony being interviewed by a blonde female reporter. She was of average looks, just a bit flirtatious.
"Mr. Tony, how do you feel about the New York Weekly and other newspapers calling you a merchant of death?" The female reporter held a recorder, looking directly at him.
This question actually carried a hint of sarcasm, implying that Tony's wealth was built on the suffering of others.
As a reporter, how could one be called a reporter without asking some sharp questions?
Tony didn't care at all. Some people were happy, some were sad; only a mediocre person isn't envied. "Which university did you graduate from?"
"Brown University!"
Tony nodded thoughtfully, feeling a bit annoyed, so he began to counterattack, "Alright, Miss Brown, my father's logic of peace is that your stick must be bigger than others'."
The female reporter's reaction was also quick. She shook her head slightly, "That's truly something a person who likes to sell sticks would say!"
Tony's expression became uncharacteristically serious. He looked directly at the female reporter, "My father helped defeat the Nazis and participated in the ManhattanProject. Many people, including Professors at your school, called him a hero!"
The female reporter's smile held some sarcasm. She quickly posed the next question, "But some people say this is profiting from war?"
Tony thought the female reporter in front of him was an idiot who didn't even understand basic logic. He pulled off his sunglasses, his tone a bit agitated, "Tell me, do you plan to report on how we've extended the lives of millions and saved them from famine by advancing medical technology and improving agricultural techniques? All these groundbreaking researches originated from the military! My dear, remember the source when you drink Water!"
This was the most justifiable reason. As long as this reason was reported, no one would care if it was war profiteering. That wasn't important!
The female reporter seemed to be speechless, but she secretly mocked Tony about whether his conscience would be clear. "That's well said. I wonder if you'll ever lose sleep over these things in your life?"
Steve and the other two happened to walk out. He was still holding Pepper's waist. "Want to bet? Tony will definitely take this female reporter back to his Villa for the night!"
"It seems they weren't having a very pleasant conversation, were they?" Rhodes looked a bit skeptical. "What are we betting?"
"One hundred U.S. dollars!"
"Okay!"
The next second.
Tony looked at the female reporter seriously, "I'm willing to lose a few hours of sleep with you!"
The female reporter's aggressive expression gradually disappeared, becoming somewhat gentle. Under Tony's pull, she obediently got into his luxury car.
"See!" Steve knew this would happen; it was just that Tony was a bit desperate.
Rhodes reluctantly pulled out a banknote and handed it over. "I should have guessed!"
"Alright, I'm leaving. Remember to make that report." Steve also pulled Pepper into his car. This was Hill's car, with S.H.I.E.L.D. license plates!
Watching Tony and Steve both drive away with women, Rhodes stood at the casino entrance, feeling a bit disheveled in the wind.
Bullying a single dog, are they!
Damn it! Those two scoundrels!
Tony went back to his seaside Villa, and Steve took Pepper back to her apartment. Everyone had a bright future.
Rhodes, on the other hand, had to go back to work overtime. He still had to write a report explaining the invitation to Captain America. He also had to notify S.H.I.E.L.D. to prepare the Captain's weapons and equipment.
Fury quickly received the message. He had to personally oversee everything concerning Captain America.
After seeing the report, which detailed Captain America's whereabouts, he gave Hill a strange look. "Captain seems to have spent the night with Tony's secretary."
"I know. I'm just taking a break." Hill's expression didn't change. This was the benefit of being soulmates; she wasn't jealous at all. She really couldn't handle it, otherwise, next time she wouldn't be leaning against the wall to go to work, but using a crutch. Her husband was too fierce; she couldn't take it!
Chapter 12: Captain America: We're waiting anyway, why not have a party?
A spring breeze once, and people are refreshed by Happyevents.
Today is Pepper's birthday, and Steve plans to spend it with her.
Women in love are often irrational and willing to do anything. They don't need great wealth, just genuine treatment.
Most women go shopping for their birthdays, but Pepperis quite simple. They go out together to buy groceries, and then she personally cooks a meal. After eating, they make a cup of coffee at home and read books on business management.
Simple, fulfilling.
It's hard to tell, but she's also a woman who enjoys a quiet life.
Actually, it was inconvenient for Pepper to go shopping. From a young girl to a married woman, she wasn't very comfortable walking, let alone going shopping. Plus, she didn't like shopping, so she had Steve read with her.
In the afternoon, Steve received a call, asking him to return.
Hill handed him a shield painted with a star and a set of combat fatigues modified from World War II.
"Husband, be careful when you're out. The situation in the Middle East is very complex. U.S. troops are stationed there, and besides the major cities, there are large numbers of Terrorists gathered in farms and rural areas." Hill adjusted his collar, her tone soft and calm, like a wife carefully advising her husband before he leaves.
"I will, Hill. If you encounter anything, call me. I'll help you solve it; don't be shy. As your husband, I have a responsibility to help you." Steve didn't explain about staying at Pepper's apartment last night. There was nothing to explain. Since Hill didn't care, there was no need to bring it up.
Hill thought seriously for a moment, then shook her head. "Not yet. After you return, there should be news. Recently, I've been investigating the movements and gathering points of Vampires. It's not a big problem. Plus, Natasha is helping me. If I really encounter a tricky issue, I'll notify you for help."
This is the advantage of a cold beauty—very realistic and not jealous. Besides, she hadn't lied before; she couldn't handle it alone. Steve had been immersed for seventy years, which made her a little scared. If there were a few more sisters to help, that would definitely be best.
See, that's the advantage of a Super Soldier!
Good health, high intelligence, and exceptionally strong kidneys.
"Do you still have time this afternoon? Let's have a coffee together. The main thing is that I'm leaving the day after tomorrow." Steve decided to reward his wife. What better reward than a heather coffee?
Hill looked at him with a strange expression, almost making Steve feel ashamed before she spoke. "Come to my apartment."
--
Two days later, New York Airport.
The plane, originally scheduled to take off at ten o'clock, had been waiting because the most important client, Tony, had not arrived.
Rhodes kept looking at his watch. An hour had passed, and he still hadn't arrived. "Is this guy late again?"
Why say "again"? It seems this isn't the first or second time.
Steve, meanwhile, was watching the busy flight attendants walking back and forth. He had to admit, Tony's taste was quite good. Stockings, long legs, paired with a flight attendant uniform, blonde, blue-eyed beauties wearing flight attendant hats. "No rush, take your time, beautiful. Heat five bottles of sake."
The chattering Rhodes turned his head in surprise to look at Steve. "Captain, you can't drink when you're on a mission!"
"We're not flying the plane. By the time we get there, we'll be sober. Beautiful, turn on the music. If you can dance, do a number." Steve wasn't being polite. He found the switch.
A stripper pole slowly rose, and the metallic music of a nightclub started playing. The private jet cabin instantly transformed into a private dance floor, with special nightclub rotating lights illuminating it.
"Uh, isn't this a bit inappropriate?" Rhodes was actually a little tempted. Where could he find such a good thing? Anyway, it wasn't him who started it. It seemed like slacking off during work hours wasn't so bad!
The beautiful flight attendant served the heated sake, and two blonde flight attendants grabbed the pole and started dancing to the music. Their high heels clicked on the floor, and occasionally a high kick showcased their graceful dance and lovely figures.
"Come, have a drink. Working with Tony definitely has its pros and cons. Feel free to tell me about them; we're just idling anyway." Steve picked up a bottle and clinked it with his, his eyes on the dancing flight attendants, a little distracted.
"Ding, slacking off during work until disembarking, reward: unlimited bullet handgun."
Handgun?
Well, better than nothing.
It's not that he looked down on handguns, but in the mid-game, facing the Chitauri army, they wouldn't be enough; they couldn't even penetrate their defenses. For now, though, it was a little useful.
On the other side.
Tony was two hours late, and only then, at the reminder of his assistant Pepper, did he head to the airport.
"Potts, let's go together. I have some things to discuss with you. I'm planning to make you the CEO of Stark Industries. Being my secretary is too little for your talent. Also, prepare some paperwork for me. My father left a will back then, stating that ten percent of Stark Industries' shares are for Steve."
"I used to think he was dead, so I didn't touch them; I held them all. Now that he's back, transfer the shares back to him. They cannot be sold, and he has no decision-making power, only dividend rights." Tony explained things while driving.
He wouldn't go so far as to swallow those shares, but he wouldn't just hand them over for free either. If Steve sold them, he'd be in trouble.
Maintaining enough shares ensures controlling interest, and he didn't want any unpleasantness to occur.
A flicker of surprise crossed Pepper's eyes. She took out her notebook and began to record. "Okay, I understand. Is there anything else you need to tell me?"
"No, that's it. How late am I?" Tony finished speaking and slammed on the accelerator, and the sports car sped off.
Pepper grabbed the handle, her high heels pressing against the floor to keep herself from flying out. She vowed that next time, she would drive herself and never ride in Tony's car again.
"Roughly three hours."
Behind them was Happy, the bodyguard's car. Surprisingly, no matter how fast Tony drove, he followed steadily. He usually kept a low profile, but he was reliable in critical moments.
If she hadn't met Steve, Pepper would have actually suggested that she wasn't suitable to be CEO; she was humble and lacked confidence.
But after meeting Steve and becoming his girlfriend, Pepper went along with Tony's words to resign from her secretary assistant job. Becoming CEO would actually be better, at least she would have a bit more private space.
When Tony arrived at the airport, the private jet's cabin door was open, and the gangway was already set up. However, Rhodes wasn't outside to greet him, making it seem a bit deserted.
Tony shrugged when he saw this. "Looks like Rhodes is angry!"
As the three boarded the plane, Tony discovered that Steve and Rhodes were already drinking and dancing with the flight attendants he had hired, having a great time! He instantly had a forehead full of black lines and retracted his apology to Rhodes.
Chapter 13 Rod: Captain, why didn't you parachute at that time?
"You're just in time, we were waiting for you!" Stevewalked over with a bottle of wine, clapped Tony on the shoulder, and winked at Pepper, who had followed.
Pepper seemed to understand what he meant. Influenced by her soulmate's traits, she couldn't feel a shred of jealousy. Instead, she found it amusing. She knew Tonywas three hours late, and she felt a sense of injustice for her boyfriend, Steve.
"Wait a minute, Captain, if I'm not mistaken, isn't it working hours right now?" Tony's face darkened. Good heavens, you're having a party without me, huh!
"Isn't it normal to slack off at work? We were just talking about your Artificial Intelligence; it's so cool! Speaking of which, the protagonist has arrived. Come on, sit down, and let's chat slowly!" Steve handed over the warmed sake and pulled Tony to the next private room to watch the flight attendants dance.
"Heh heh, I'm not falling for that!" Tony refused to accept. He could be late, but you can't have a party while waiting for me! And with my money! Despicable!
Two minutes later.
Tony sat on the sofa with a bottle of wine, next to a tipsy Rhodes. Both of them were watching the model-turned-flight attendants pole dance.
So good!
"Tony, do you have any other Artificial Intelligence chips? Give me one too, preferably with a female voice; it sounds more exciting!" Steve was immune to alcohol and also immune to the alluring flight attendants in front of him.
With a subtly rousing music, the flight attendants swayed their graceful bodies to the rhythm. They constantly showcased their charm, hoping that if they could climb up the social ladder, their hard work wouldn't be in vain!
Unfortunately, both Tony and Rhodes only saw them as playthings.
As for Steve, he was Captain America and had to lead by example! He could drink, but he would absolutely not touch anyone!
Why drive a public bus when you have a private car?
"I do have some, but I might not give them to you!" Tonysmiled slyly. He was still a bit resentful!
"You will give them to me eventually!" Steve smiled mysteriously. He was coveting Tony's private inventions; each one was a good thing!
Friends are for scamming!
Scam! Scam hard!
The three chatted about World War II, and about Stevecrashing his plane into an iceberg.
Rhodes, holding a bottle of wine, asked drunkenly, "Captain, why didn't you parachute then?"
Steve's expression became very sad, and his melancholic look made the flight attendants feel heartbroken. "Alas, the plane had an autopilot function at the time. If I didn't control the plane to make an emergency landing, the large amount of explosives it carried would have been enough to destroy the entire New York State. Moreover, I didn't even think about parachuting at the time. Being a soldier means defending your country. If sacrificing one person can bring peace, I would not hesitate."
At this moment, Captain America's image once again became great! Once again, it deeply resonated with people.
Even the tipsy Rhodes couldn't help but stand up and salute Steve, a perfect military salute!
He had even doubted whether the Captain was fake because of his strange expression, but now it seemed that his past heroic deeds absolutely deserved the title of 'hero'!
Tony's expression remained unchanged, but his heart also began to let go and truly accept Steve. "Then why have you changed now?"
Steve sighed, picked up the wine bottle, and chugged it down, drowning his sorrows. "Before the final battle, Peggy and I had a date. But this date, this date, I was seventy years late!"
Upon hearing this, everyone was filled with solemn respect.
Even Tony, with his genius, rebellious, and whimsical nature, couldn't help but feel genuine admiration.
"Heh, the past will always pass. One must learn to look forward. Tony, I need to adapt to the changes of the new era now. I want to find my soulmate and find out who killed my best friend Howard, your father! I hope you can help me. Let's start as friends." Steve extended his hand, his eyes gradually changing from melancholic to resolute.
Tony's eyes were a little moist. Was this really his father's good friend? He secretly wiped away his tears, stood up as well, and gave the other party enough respect, shaking his hand firmly. "No problem, Captain."
"Call me Captain on missions, but call me Steve privately. We're friends." Steve smiled. Hey, I'm a born actor.
"My father left you ten percent of Stark Industries' stock dividends. You'll get money every quarter. I've already had Potts handle the paperwork for you. You deserve this."
If it was just fulfilling a promise before, now Tonygenuinely wanted to return this money to Steve.
"No need to be so polite. Alright, you guys continue, have fun. I'm going to rest for a bit." Steve smiled. He truly didn't care about this money.
"There are hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars every quarter!"
What! Did you say there's that much money? Then I won't be polite!
"Okay, I'll treat you to dinner then!" Steve closed the door before leaving, letting out a breath. Acting really is tiring!
Inside the cabin.
Pepper was working on files, her legs together, ten white, rosy toes stepping into shiny black strapped high heels, looking very alluring. She looked up at Steve, and a happy smile bloomed on her fair, pretty face. "Steve, the files will be ready soon, it's the stock dividend agreement!"
"You just keep them for me, Pepper. I love you, I'm willing to give everything for you!" Steve didn't care about the money because it would be his eventually. It wouldn't run away in Pepper's hands.
Bad women can't save money, only play. Good women can not only save money but also play!
"Husband!" Pepper was so touched that her address changed. She didn't love money or worship it, but so much money unconditionally placed in her hands, besides trust, was full of love!
Looking at the charming and beautiful Pepper, Stevewent over and hugged her. "There's a lounge here, right? I want to rest for a bit."
"Mm." Pepper blushed and led Steve to the guest room to rest.
Everyone has dreams, and each is wonderful in its own way.
The next day.
At a hotel in Afghanistan.
Steve was woken up by Pepper. She went to the bathroom to clean up and brush her teeth. "Husband, time to get up. Today we need to escort Tony for a military hardware display and sale."
Her face was rosy and radiant.
Looking at herself in the mirror, Pepper felt beautiful. Women are like roses; they need careful nurturing and daily watering to maintain their vibrancy.
Steve got up and changed into his combat uniform. It was similar to the World War II combat uniform, just slightly modified. The style was the same as the uniform in Captain America 2, providing both protection and making him look more robust, giving a strong sense of security at first glance!
Paired with rubber military boots, sturdy and durable! Looking in the mirror, he was undeniably handsome, tall, strong, and dashing!
Chapter 14 Why is my future girlfriend Sharon Carter here too?
Afghanistan, Bagram Air Base.
Tony emerged from the plane in a formal suit, greeted by a group of Military officers and generals from the local government army. Armed soldiers stood guard around them, and Steve stood to one side, his expression serious.
"General!" Tony smiled and extended his hand.
The head of the Air Base shook his hand with a smile, then looked at the representative beside him, "We are very much looking forward to your weapon demonstration!"
"Thank you." Tony shook hands with the other representatives in turn; these were his buyers!
Arriving at an open field outside the Base, Tony began to demonstrate the missile he had invented.
Facing the crowd, behind him stretched an endless chain of mountains, their peaks still showing traces of white snow from the low temperatures.
"To be respected or to be feared, which is better? I say, both! Is that too much to ask? Therefore, I humbly present to you the flagship product of Stark Industries' Freedom Series."
Steve also put on his sunglasses, while Rhodes stood beside him, feet apart, hands behind his back in a Militarystance.
"This is the first missile system to incorporate our patented Impact technology. Scholars have said that the best weapon is one that never needs to be used! I respectfully disagree! I prefer a weapon that only needs to be used once to complete the mission!"
"My father did it that way! The United States did it that way! And so far, everything has been very successful!"
"Now I will launch a missile, and I personally guarantee that the bad guys will never want to crawl out of their bunkers again." Tony finished speaking and gave a signal. The AI-controlled missile launcher began to operate, rotating into position.
The cameras beside it scanned the environment, setting their target on the distant, snow-capped mountains.
The Rocket mounted on the launcher immediately ignited, with searing Fire erupting from its tail. It propelled the missile away, reaching supersonic speed in an incredibly short time!
The missile reached its designated location within two seconds. Its internal mechanisms activated, and its outer casing vibrated open and detached. A dozen smaller missiles separated from it, falling to different locations.
Boom! An explosion, spanning over ten kilometers, soared into the sky, creating mushroom clouds on the ground.
"For your reference, the Jericho Missile!" Tony, with a showy gesture, spread his arms wide and raised them, with the continuous explosions behind him. Accompanied by the violent Impact generated by the explosions, he was blown forward, stumbling awkwardly.
The U.S. Military officers and local government army representatives present were also continuously pushed back by the Impact. This was more than ten kilometers from the center of the explosion, yet they could still feel the incredibly strong force!
Countless plumes of smoke and dust billowed up, obscuring even their vision, making it impossible to see anything!
Such a missile, such power, was truly terrifying!
In a backward country where AKs were used for indiscriminate killing and tanks dominated, this missile was undoubtedly a dimensionality reduction strike! Most importantly, the Impact system was powerful enough to shake Terrorists hiding in bunkers to death!
Among so many people, only Steve remained motionless; such a small Impact was nothing to him!
Everyone was covered in dust. The bald general clapped the dust off his clothes and exaggeratedly praised, "As expected of Captain America! What composure!"
Steve merely nodded to him with a serious expression, his gaze fixed on the distance. He seemed to have spotted a familiar face.
Tony also patted the dust off his clothes and walked to a box that had been brought down. The box was opened, and fixed champagne and glasses rose together, accompanied by a chill. "For every order over five hundred million, I will give one of these as a gift."
Once everyone had picked up their champagne, Tonyraised his glass, "To Peace!"
"To Peace!" Everyone raised their champagne in response.
As for not being allowed to drink during work?
Nonsense! They were responsible for entertaining these clients; how could they chat without drinking?
And how could they get these representatives to place large orders without chatting?
Tony walked away with his glass; he wasn't needed for the detailed order negotiations, which the Military and company representatives would handle back home.
Just then, his phone rang. Tony picked it up and saw it was his business partner calling—a video call! "Hey, Obie, you're up early?"
On the other end of the line was a balding man with a half-White beard. He still seemed to be in bed. "Hi, Tony, how was the weapon demonstration? This order is crucial; I was a bit too worried to sleep."
"Excellent! Looks like Christmas can come early." Tonywas unconcerned; with him personally handling it, how could it not succeed?
"That's wonderful! Tony, see you tomorrow!" Obamajumped up in excitement.
After ending the call, he immediately got up, checked, and confirmed that the tracker was still working. Then he picked up another phone and dialed, "The target has departed. You can act now!"
"Yes."
Obama ended the call, his excited smile gradually turning cruel. "Tony, don't blame me. Stark Industries was built by your father and me together; I have a share in this! You want to give away shares? No way!"
--
Tony got into a Humvee, ready to leave. He wanted to go back and find a woman to celebrate properly.
Rhodes hurried after him, but the car door was already closed. "Hey, Tony."
"Rhodes, this is the fun Humvee. Your boring Humvee is still behind." Tony had no intention of letting Rhodes in; he was going to have fun.
"Captain was held back by the General. I'll go back with you." Rhodes's mission, besides liaising with Stark Industries, was also protection.
"Nothing strange about that. If you meet a legend and don't chat for a bit, how will you brag about it later?" Tonydismissed it, saying that striking up conversations with powerful figures was what weaker people liked to do most.
Rhodes was a bit helpless. "Alright, I'll finish up here and head back. See you at the Base later."
It wasn't far from here back to the Air Base, just twenty or thirty kilometers.
On the other side.
Steve was talking to a pretty blonde woman, with General O'Ryan, the head of the Air Base, beside them.
"Captain, this is my niece, Sharon Carter." General O'Ryan introduced her. In his position, he no longer needed to curry favor with Captain; the other man was even older than him.
"Hello, Captain." Sharon smiled as she extended her hand, her eyes holding a mix of admiration and curiosity.
Steve also extended his hand, feigning a bit of confusion. "Are you related to Peggy?"
"She's my aunt." Sharon winked playfully, exuding youthfulness, vivacity, and a touch of mischief.
She had grown up hearing her aunt talk about Steve and was very curious about this legendary Captain America.
Meeting him for the first time today, she felt a stir in her heart. She wanted to chat with him, wanted to lean closer.
With the halo of goodwill and the label of a legendary figure, tall, handsome, strong, and masculine, what woman could resist such a man?
Chapter 15 Tony is attacked and Captain America is on a date
"Ding, a kind lie can sometimes heal hearts. Please persuade Sharon to let go of the past. Reward: infinitely upgradeable motorcycle, with parking space."
"Huh? This works too?"
"I am Captain America, the embodiment of justice! A moral paragon! How can I lie?!"
"I need more money!"
""Sigh, how is Peggy doing?" Steve picked up a glass of champagne and took a sip, his expression a bit melancholic.
"Aunt is fine, she's just getting on in years. She's lived a very fulfilling life," Sharon said with a slight smile, eagerly anticipating some gossip. Her aunt often mentioned Steve, and through osmosis, Captain America had also become her idol.
"That's good. I've seen S.H.I.E.L.D.'s files. S.H.I.E.L.D. was a result she personally helped build. Her life was very fulfilling, with rich adventures and also lows, proving herself to be a woman who could stand shoulder to shoulder with men. In the end, she also found her marriage and had her own children. That's truly wonderful."
Steve's expression was melancholic. Before Sharon could speak, he continued, a sunny smile gracing his face, "Peggy is my friend, and also my guide. For her to die of old age is the best possible outcome. She also taught me to look forward. I don't belong to this era, yet I appeared in this era. I also need to look forward and adapt to this era."
These words silenced Sharon, thankfully only verbally, not physically.
Seeing Steve's sad expression, Sharon couldn't help but go over and hug him, comforting him, "Aunt has always been very happy, Captain. You're right, people need to look forward. When we go back to New York, how about I take you to see her?"
See an old woman? A truly old woman!
"Alright, then I'll see her."
As the one who replaced Captain America, he actually didn't have much affection for Peggy. But to put on a complete show, alas, life is like a play, and one is not in control of one's own actions!
"Ah, yes, yes, yes. When discussing population inheritance with Hill, and when spending the night with Pepper, he didn't say he was not in control of his own actions!"
"By the way, what kind of work are you doing now?" Steve didn't push Sharon away; instead, he rather enjoyed it. As a normal man, he wouldn't be a gentleman who sits by a beauty without taking advantage!
Sharon seemed to have forgotten, and she didn't actively let go either. This pose was very much like a couple in love. "I just finished training at the CIA, and now I'm also a member of S.H.I.E.L.D.!"
This was not surprising. With Peggy, a founder of S.H.I.E.L.D., as her aunt, she could join S.H.I.E.L.D. by pulling some strings.
Better benefits, higher clearance, much more promising than being a congresswoman.
"Then we'll have a chance to see each other often in the future," Steve smiled. "I have second-round experience. What do you have, Your Excellency?"
Only purity and adoration, like a lamb encountering a big bad wolf!
"I do office work!" Sharon blinked, her eyes looking at Steve with a hint of shyness. "It's almost noon, how about we have lunch together?"
Being actively invited to lunch, hiss, was he being counter-attacked?
As expected of the version bonus! The American succubus!
"Ding, mission complete. Obtained infinitely upgradeable motorcycle."
Steve could feel a strange space connected to him, and inside it was parked an off-road motorcycle, exactly like the one Captain America rode in Captain America 2.
Infinitely upgradeable motorcycle: Infinite fuel, automatically restored in the garage twenty-four hours after damage. Can be upgraded through missions, please pay attention to subsequent missions.
Cool!
Just the infinite fuel and the ability to be restored after damage, this was an unexpected surprise!
"Of course, I just learned a magic trick, do you want to see it?" Steve's tone was very excited. Of course, good things should be shown off to others, to boast a little!
"Alright!" Sharon was a bit curious, her bright eyes fixed on Captain America without blinking. This man was too charming; no wonder her aunt liked him. "Aunt, you're old. The wish you couldn't fulfill, I'll fulfill it for you!"
Peggy: My niece stole the man I liked? Is this a complete reversal of roles!
Steve took out a large waterproof tarp, holding it with both hands. "Are you ready?"
Sharon nodded, her hands clasped in front of her chest, like a curious fangirl.
Whoosh!
Steve silently thought "summon," then suddenly pulled off the tarp! "Transform!"
A brand new off-road motorcycle appeared before their eyes, with a sleek aerodynamic design and wide sand tires for increased grip. The two seats could also carry a passenger, and the seats were retractable, able to become a single seat for combat and fixed posture when not carrying anyone.
This motorcycle could only be described as very cool!
Mecha is a man's romance, and motorcycles are a man's pursuit!
Steve got on, placed his vibranium shield behind him, and waved to Sharon. "Get on, beautiful, I'll take you for a ride!"
"Alright." Sharon's surprised eyes also became excited. She didn't know how Captain had conjured a motorcycle. Before she could think, she was invited for a ride. What woman could refuse romance?
She got on, hugged Captain's strong waist, rested her head against the shield, a satisfied smile on her face.
With a twist of the throttle, the motorcycle roared out of the experimental facility.
A few minutes later.
Rhodes received a message, "What? Lost signal? Damn it, send a helicopter to search immediately!"
When he hung up the phone and looked for Captain for help, the reply he got was that Captain had gone joyriding with General Olem's daughter!
Rhodes, upon receiving the message, was bewildered. "No, Captain, we're on a mission. How could you go pick up a girl midway?"
Just an hour ago, Tony's Humvee was attacked.
All the escorting U.S. soldiers were dead, and the three escort vehicles had turned into fireballs.
By the time Rhodes arrived with his men, Tony was nowhere to be found, and the bodies of the U.S. soldiers were scattered, incomplete. This made him anxious, so he called Captain America again.
At this moment, Steve was having lunch with Sharon, feeding each other, highlighting their rapidly warming relationship. Just add a little more fuel, and wouldn't he win her over?
"Hello? I understand, I'm on my way now." Steve put down the phone, looked at the puzzled Sharon, and said apologetically, "Something happened. Tony's convoy was attacked, and he's missing. I need to go check it out. We'll reschedule our date, I'm sorry."
Sharon shook her head, very understanding. "It's fine, the mission is important. If you need my help, just ask. You go handle it; we have plenty of time for dates."
Having lunch and a date with an idol, this is something girls cannot refuse.
If her colleagues knew that she was dating Captain America, they would be envious and jealous to the point of madness. Legendary figures come with their own succubus aura!
Chapter 16 Sharon: I'm sorry, Auntie, Captain, I'll take it!
There weren't many traces left at the scene; these Terrorists were highly professional, committing murder and abduction in one swift motion.
When Steve arrived, a U.S. Military unit was already searching the area.
"What's the situation?"
Rhodes seemed a bit self-reproachful. "No clues whatsoever. The only information is that Tony might still be alive; his body wasn't found at the scene."
"That's good news then. First, find out which faction is responsible. Then, send out planes to specifically search their areas of influence, focusing on civilian homes and caves." Steve's expression was grim. This was unavoidable; perhaps only after enduring this ordeal could Tony grow from a playboy into Iron Man.
"Understood, I'll do as you say." Rhodes nodded, out of admiration for Captain America.
Steve also joined the search, still wondering why the system hadn't given him a mission this time.
Night fell.
Inside a certain cave.
Tony awoke from a coma. He looked vaguely at the ceiling, realizing he was in a cave. Above him, there was only an old, yellowed light bulb. He felt completely drained of strength.
He looked to his side; there was a cup. Feeling an unbearable thirst, he tried to reach for it, but his body was too weak.
After several attempts, he not only failed to grab the cup but even knocked it over!
At this point, he felt something was wrong. He quickly looked to the other side and saw a battery connected to him. His chest was also wrapped in bandages, and a growing unease filled him. He hastily tore open the bandages, revealing a circular magnet embedded in his chest!
"If I were you, I wouldn't make any sudden moves."
Tony turned his head and realized there was someone else in the cave: a middle-aged man in his fifties with a receding hairline and glasses. "Who are you?"
"Ethan. You can call me Ethan. I was also at the Stark Industries gala back then, though I'm sure you didn't notice me." The man chuckled self-deprecatingly, putting down his razor.
"Where am I?" Tony was still very weak. He only remembered being blown away and then vaguely realizing someone was performing surgery on him before the present moment.
"I don't know where this is either; I was abducted just like you!" Ethan seemed helpless; he was also a hostage.
Bang!
The locked iron door opened, and a group of ragged Terrorists carrying guns walked in.
The leader, a small-time boss, laughed loudly upon seeing Tony awake, then rattled off a string of words.
Tony didn't understand, so the boss looked at Ethan.
Ethan reluctantly acted as a translator. "They say they are pleased to meet the World Butcher. They mean no harm; they just want your help to build weapons."
The boss pulled out a poster, which was for the Jericho missile advertised by Stark Industries.
"The missile you demonstrated before, if you build it for them, they will let you go. Otherwise, they will kill you!"
Tony's face was expressionless, his mind racing. "Okay, but I need help, and medicine, and food and Water!"
Given the situation, it was time to eat!
--
Two days later, Obama, the Deputy Director of Stark Industries, only flew to Afghanistan after taking over all operations.
He was there to confirm Tony's life or death. He was quite annoyed that Tony hadn't died. If he wasn't dead, there would be variables, and with variables, the plan could be exposed.
Steve was currently out on a mission with Sharon. The mission he received was to help the Military find the missing Tony.
Taking this opportunity, he also learned about Stark Industries' business scope and connections. In addition to providing weapons and equipment to the Military, many of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s instruments and software were designed and manufactured with Tony's involvement.
The most famous was Artificial Intelligence!
S.H.I.E.L.D. also had Artificial Intelligence, designed by Tony, and it was currently unique in the entire World. No one else could create other Artificial Intelligence; this seemed to be a patent!
Hill also called to ask if her husband was safe.
After confirming Steve was fine, she mentioned that she had recently been tracking Vampires, and Fury planned to recruit the black hunter they had met at the nightclub before. Temporarily named Blade, he was also a prospective member of the Avengers Initiative.
These were all top-secret messages, only accessible to Level 9 Agents. And in all of S.H.I.E.L.D., only Hill and Coulson were Level 9 Agents, holding the position of Deputy Director.
Having such a powerful wife was actually quite a comfortable thing.
What's wrong with living off a woman? Why can others live off a woman, but Captain America can't?
Not only would he, but he would do it thoroughly!
Steve took Sharon and tracked the Terrorists according to the list, spending several days before finally finding a lead.
They discovered that this group of Terrorists was transporting materials, with numerous visible and hidden sentries on the periphery, and a significant amount of Stark Industries weapons piled up inside! These were all purchased by the local government forces. As for why they ended up in the hands of Terrorists, one could only say it was business!
"There's definitely something wrong here. We need to find a way to infiltrate. Let's observe for a while; you stay outside and guard, I'll go in and take a look." Steve spoke close to her ear, making it seem very intimate.
Sharon felt her ears tingle, and her heart fluttered. She didn't care what her aunt thought. If she were to meet her aunt as Steve's partner, wouldn't that be very interesting?
Although she felt sorry for her aunt, she didn't want to regret it!
No matter a woman's feelings, if she meets a good man, she should fight for him.
Moreover, Peggy was already old and there was absolutely no possibility with Steve. That's why Sharonwanted to take her place. If you don't take what heaven offers, you'll be struck by lightning!
"Okay, I'll cover you from outside." Sharon was very opinionated and resourceful, as seen in "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier," where she acted as a broker, skillfully playing both sides. However, with a man to rely on, why would she work so hard? It wasn't that she was foolish; rather, it highlighted her shrewdness.
Men like demure women, women who are agreeable. She would simply be a demure woman and satisfy Steve's masculine ego.
Men loved women like that!
The Super Soldier Serum not only enhanced his body but also his intelligence. In just a few days, Steve had learned the local language and writing; this speed was truly genius! This was also why he had the confidence to infiltrate; language barriers could easily lead to trouble.
After observing for half a day, Steve noticed a regular food delivery person.
So, taking advantage of the person's inattention, he snuck in, knocked him out, then put on his clothes, picked up the meal, and walked into the cave.
"Ding, mission triggered: Iron Man's Birth."
"Iron Man's Birth: As Tony's good friend, help him build the Mark I armor to become Iron Man. Afterward, you'll be able to slack off more easily. Reward: Off-road motorcycle upgrade."
Chapter 17 Sharon: I have been walking with the help of the wall for more than two months
The reward is decent, and the motorcycle is very convenient to use. Most importantly, it's available anytime, with unlimited fuel. That's just too comfortable!
After changing into his disguise, Steve, carrying food, sneaked into the cave.
Along the way, he encountered scattered Terrorists on alert with guns. They saw him but acted as if they didn't, seemingly accustomed to his presence.
After walking about twenty meters, a fork in the road appeared.
To the left was an iron door, from which clanging sounds emanated. He went over to take a look, and there was a convenient window on the iron door for monitoring.
Inside, Tony was working with metal, a simple Arc Reactor embedded in his chest, replacing the electromagnet.
The explosion didn't take Tony's life, but tiny shrapnel had entered his bloodstream. If these fragments reached his heart, they would pierce it.
Therefore, an electromagnet was necessary to hold the shrapnel, thereby saving his life.
Steve placed the food aside, then turned and walked towards the other fork in the road. There were no surveillance cameras along this path, making it convenient for him to do his 'bad deeds.'
At the end of this fork was also an iron door. Looking through the window, two Terrorists were watching a screen.
The screen displayed Tony's cave, monitoring his every move.
Seeing this, Steve pondered. If he could hack into the surveillance, his actions would become much easier.
Without acting rashly, Steve returned to the original path and delivered the meal. He didn't even greet Tony, simply placing the food on a nearby table before leaving.
After leaving the cave, Steve took out a few U.S. dollars and placed them on the stripped Terrorist, also leaving a note.
Half an hour later, the Terrorist woke up. His first reaction was to shout for help, thinking he had been ambushed!
But after seeing the stack of U.S. dollars and the note, he fell silent.
The note, written in the local language, read: "Cooperate, get money. Don't cooperate, your whole family dies."
Simple, brutal.
The Terrorist was silent. Wait, who's the Terrorist here, me or them?
I'm a Terrorist, and you're still threatening me like this?
Hmph!
For the sake of money, I forgive you!
Steve watched as the Terrorist tore up the note, then furtively picked up the U.S. dollars and looked around before leaving.
After observing for a period and confirming that the other party hadn't reported him, Steve left.
He did this out of necessity; killing the other party would expose him. Not killing them would be troublesome, so he could only try to bribe them.
Fortunately, the intelligence was correct: these Terroristswere very poor. So, bribing them with money worked, mainly because they were also short on cash.
Following the boss, starving three meals out of nine days—who could stand that!
"Sharon, do you know how to hack? I need your help to hack the surveillance, to make it loop for a period so they don't see the real content."
Steve didn't understand this kind of technology. Next time he went back, he would definitely make Hill teach him hacking on a soft Simmons mattress!
"No problem, I just need a signal receiver. Plug in the USB drive, and I can perform a remote intrusion." Sharon didn't ask why. Whatever Captain told her to do, she would do, in whatever position!
He went back to resupply and get equipment.
The next day, it was the same scenario.
The Terrorist delivering the meal was knocked out. When he woke up, he found a stack of money on him!
Excited, he counted the money; it was exactly the same as last time! He had just hooked up with a woman, and it was a time when he needed money, so he accepted it with a clear conscience!
All plans were executed smoothly. Steve was not in a hurry to rescue Tony.
The mission was to assist him in building the Mark I armor; he just needed to wait patiently.
Time flew by, and more than two months passed. During this period, the U.S. military had already stopped searching. They had not received any information that Tony was still alive.
Steve didn't tell anyone else but did mention it to Hill, asking Hill to inform Fury.
Fury was clearly very interested in building the Iron Armor and asked Coulson to assist Steve.
Originally, Hill was supposed to go, which would have allowed the couple to reunite.
However, the Vampire tracking project had also reached a critical point. Vampires had been quite active recently, so the more strategically adept Hill had to be assigned to that.
Fortunately, Hill, despite her busy schedule, still managed to make a trip to Afghanistan, bringing warmth from a thousand miles away. After being given two days of fever-reducing shots, she left again.
In a temporary cave dug under a nearby sand dune.
Steve, Sharon, and Coulson were watching a screen. It showed impatient Terrorists threatening Tony, demanding that he produce the Jericho missile within three days, or they would kill him!
"It looks like Mr. Stark needs help." Coulson was very excited; he was fulfilling a dream by being able to carry out a mission with his idol!
"Then let's proceed with the plan. I will infiltrate and help Tony build the armor. Coulson, you contact Rhodes and have him send a helicopter to pick us up. You handle those Terrorists as you see fit."
"Sharon, you stay here and handle monitoring and reporting the situation."
Steve had already assigned tasks. Since Coulson was here, he could handle the miscellaneous tasks and logistics.
"Understood, Captain, I will definitely complete the mission!" Coulson saluted. A Level 9 Agent being commanded by a Level 6 Agent, and willingly so, was truly a reversal of roles!
Coulson quickly left to gather reinforcements.
Steve also took his shield, ready to depart. Just before leaving, Sharon called out to him. "Wait, Steve."
A heartfelt kiss.
"Go, be careful. When we get back to New York, we'll have our date." Sharon, like a wife, straightened his clothes, her eyes full of tenderness.
Two months of living together had deepened their feelings far more than with Peggy.
Steve had no strong feelings for Peggy, so being with Sharon naturally brought no guilt. "Okay, I can't wait."
An hour later.
Steve infiltrated the cave. The surveillance footage had been hacked by Sharon, looping previous segments, and the Terrorists noticed nothing.
Seeing the Terrorists enter again, Tony, busy assembling the armor, immediately covered it with a tarp.
"Didn't you say there were still three days?"
Steve pulled down his headscarf, revealing his true face to the two, "Hurry and finish your masterpiece. I've already hacked the surveillance. Finish it quickly, and we can wrap up."
With that, he took out a bottle of cola and sat down, happily drinking it.
"Steve? You actually came! My God!" Tony was incredibly surprised. These past two months had changed him a lot.
He was still arrogant, but he had become a bit more humane.
Dr. Ethan looked at the two, his face full of confusion and bewilderment. He wasn't American; how would he know Captain America!
Chapter 18: The Mark I Armor is Unveiled
"This is Captain America Steve, a World War II hero who was recently unfrozen." Tony felt more confident with his friend there.
If he knew that for the past two months, Steve had been romancing Sharon while watching him suffer here, would he break off their friendship on the spot?
I treat you like a brother, and you just watch me suffer, huh?!
"We'll talk when we get out. Dr. Ethan, please help Tony. We don't have much time." Steve was also very excited. A mech, what if he got one too?
But on second thought, he decided against it. It wasn't suitable for him.
Getting some flying gear, that wouldn't be bad.
With Captain America Steve there to encourage them, their movements quickened, and they quickly assembled the armor.
However, this was not enough; a simple program still needed to be implanted to provide assistance. Otherwise, Tony would not be able to move the heavy armor an inch.
Steve also scrutinized the armor, despite its crudeness. But he had to admit, it had a very substantial feel, like the joy of finding a treasure among junk!
Just as the program was half-entered, the head of the Terrorists came for inspection!
He discovered the surveillance had been swapped, and both surprised and enraged, he immediately sent his subordinates to capture Tony and Ethan. If necessary, they were to be shot on sight!
Footsteps and curses came from outside, a cacophony of sounds he couldn't understand.
"Oh no! They found us!" Dr. Ethan was a bit flustered. "But the progress bar is still halfway!"
Gritting his teeth, he picked up a gun nearby. "I'll go hold them off."
"Alright, Ethan, leave it to Steve. That guy isn't here to watch. You help me with the final adjustments! It's been two months! Those bastards should know my power by now!"
Tony gritted his teeth. He had never been so unlucky. This was an unfortunate experience, but also a fortunate one, at least he felt he had grown a lot.
Steve pulled out his shield from behind, crushing a soda can into an iron disc, his expression a half-smile. "If I make a move, they'll all be dead! Want me to leave some for you to have some fun?"
"Definitely! Do you know how I've spent these two months?! Those damn bastards must atone for their sins!" Tony was furious at the thought of it. He had never gone nearly three months without touching a woman before; now even a sow looked pretty to him!
Beep beep beep!
The countdown on the bomb installed outside the iron door ended, and it exploded with a bang.
Five Terrorists were instantly blown away, losing their breath as soon as they hit the ground.
Steve held his shield in front, advancing with a pistol in his right hand. With his powerful physique and quick reflexes, his marksmanship had also become very accurate.
One shot, one Terrorist. Their assault rifle bullets struck the shield, making a crisp clanging sound.
The force of the bullets was dispersed by the shield, and the bullets themselves deformed upon impact and fell to the ground, unlike ordinary steel which would cause them to ricochet.
Passing a fork in the road, an ambushing Terrorist tried to sneak attack with a dagger.
Steve swung his shield forcefully with his left hand, knocking him away, then fired three shots at his head, bang bang bang!
Sneak attack? He hated ambushers the most!
At this moment, a dull grinding sound of machinery came from behind, followed by Tony's voice, "Steve, it's my turn. Watch my new invention."
"I know, I know, stop showing off, go ahead." Steve put away his gun and watched the show from the side.
At the exit, more than ten guns fired simultaneously.
Bullets hit the armor with a crisp clang, and many Terrorists were even hit by ricocheting bullets, killing themselves!
Tony pulled the fuse on his left hand, launching small grenades in a primitive way.
Whoosh! The grenades flew out quickly, and with the explosions, all the Terrorists were blown away!
"Not bad." Steve walked out with Dr. Ethan. This armor was sufficient for ordinary people. To truly be used in war, it would need additional modifications.
They came outside.
Tony had already started operating the armor to spray Fire, using the flames to ignite nearby combustibles.
Many Terrorists were directly burned into Pyro, struggling in agony, and only dying after enduring endless torment.
Being burned to death is very painful! If you're bothered to death, that's very happy!
As the ammunition began to detonate, the area started to turn into a fireworks display.
Tony extended his hand to Dr. Ethan, "Let's go. I told you I'd take you home!"
"What about Captain?" Ethan didn't reach out immediately, instead showing concern for Steve.
"I have my own way. You two go out first, we'll meet outside!" Steve said, nimbly jumping aside, and in a few moves, climbed to a high spot and flipped over.
The armor activated flight mode, sending fuel energy to its feet. As flames rose, it carried both Tony and Ethaninto the sky!
Taking off amidst an explosion, that feeling was exhilarating! The scene was also super cool!
But the coolness only lasted three seconds before the armor disintegrated due to violent vibrations!
Tony and Ethan fell messily onto the desert. Despite their disheveled and embarrassed appearance, they exchanged a smile.
The feeling of escaping death was truly wonderful!
"Ethan, are you interested in working for me? If there's a chance in your hometown, I will definitely help you find your family."
Tony extended an invitation to his benefactor, which was all he could do at the moment.
"Haha, thank you. My family is already dead, they're all gone. War took them away." Ethan's smile gradually turned sorrowful; he no longer had a family.
"I'm very sorry."
Boom!
Steve arrived next to them on an off-road motorcycle, carrying a blonde, charming beauty. "I've called a plane. Congratulations on your escape! Remember to treat me to a meal when we get back!"
"I need to eat a burger!" Tony thought of the burger he had been craving.
"Thank you, Captain!" Ethan struggled to stand up and bowed deeply to Steve in respect.
"You're welcome." Steve looked at the helicopter flying in the distance; he could vaguely see Coulson and Rhodes.
"Your plane is here. See you at the Base later!"
Steve finished speaking, twisted the throttle, and left with Sharon. To do what? To do Sharon!
"Ding, mission complete. Rewards have been transmitted. Please place the motorcycle in the garage for upgrade. Estimated time: one hour."
By the time the system prompt sounded, Steve had already taken Sharon to a hotel to get a room.
The mission was successfully completed, so a celebration was definitely in order.
And what celebration is more interesting than applause?
If there is, then applaud twice!
Upon Tony's return to the Air Base, he was immediately sent for examination. Any issues would be treated promptly, and only after his physical safety was confirmed would he be arranged to return to the United States.
Chapter 19 Captain America: I am a level six agent, but my wife is a level nine agent!
"You mean Steve watched me for over two months?" Tony, upon hearing Rhodes' words, jolted upright from his deathbed!
Was he a monkey to be watched?
Though he didn't want to admit it, that was precisely the reality.
"Captain meant well. He said you were planning something at the time, so he confirmed your safety and then continued to bide his time. And now, you've escaped, and I see you've changed quite a bit!"
Rhodes was a straightforward person, and his relationship with Captain America was also good. The halo of goodwill was a good thing!
Tony recalled his experiences over the past two months, how he started from nothing. In the cave, he used rudimentary materials to build a miniature Arc Reactorand successfully created the Mark I armor. It all felt like a dream!
"That bastard Steve, he's taking women to hotels to have fun while I'm lying here recovering. What a jerk!"
Tony couldn't help but curse. He even found Rhodespleasing to the eye now!
Rhodes: Gays, get lost!
"No major issues, you can go back tomorrow. Oh, by the way, it seems you've been kicked off the board of Directors during this time. You'll have to deal with that yourself." Rhodes was still quite concerned about Tony, also for his own future.
Rhodes was able to grow from a small soldier to a major because he knew Tony previously and was then promoted as a Stark Industries liaison.
At this moment, Coulson walked in. He first smiled, then introduced himself. "I'm Agent Coulson from S.H.I.E.L.D.It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Stark."
"Oh, I saw you on the plane!" Tony had a good memory. The other party looked very much like an honest man. "Is there something you need?"
"We found your scattered armor in the desert. It has been collected and sent back to you. Furthermore, we sincerely invite you to join S.H.I.E.L.D. and become a member of the Avengers."
Coulson paused after speaking, waiting for Tony to digest these words before continuing.
"The Avengers is an alliance composed of super-powered individuals. Any action has the endorsement of S.H.I.E.L.D. and can receive help and support from S.H.I.E.L.D. It is legitimate and righteous. Captain is also a member!"
The last sentence was the key! Captain America was also a member!
"Uh, Steve joined too?" Tony had originally intended to refuse, but this was an opportunity for him to explore the full scope of a secret Agent organization like S.H.I.E.L.D.
Coulson didn't state the reason, which was because Steve's girlfriend was Hill, the Deputy Director, so he naturally joined.
Without this reason, trying to get Steve to join, with his tendency to slack off, he would most likely just go through the motions.
"As an Agent organization, aren't you very well-informed? Can you share that information?" Tony was quite interested in this point. He didn't need it before, but now he felt it was necessary.
The debt from being kidnapped, that was something to be settled slowly!
"It will be shared according to Agent level. Once you return, our Director Fury will personally brief you on the specifics," Coulson said with a smile.
"What level Agent is Steve?" Tony thought of something and quickly asked.
"Captain is provisionally a Level Six," Coulson had nothing to hide.
"Then I must be at least Level Six!" Tony felt he couldn't be lower than Steve, or he would lose face.
"Alright." Coulson smiled, appearing like a good-natured person. But he didn't mention that Captain's girlfriend's clearance was Level Nine, a level Tony couldn't even come close to reaching!
--
Upon learning of Tony's successful return, Vice President Obama was very flustered. He had orchestrated all of this, not only putting Tony in a desperate situation but also using this opportunity to expand his influence and seize control of the board's power.
After confirming with the Terrorists over the phone, Obama put his unease aside. Since he hadn't been exposed, he would continue to pretend.
It was just a bit of weaponry, wasn't it? If it could shut them up, and he could find an opportunity to eliminate them later, there would be no evidence!
Billionaire returns successfully three months after attack!
As soon as this news spread, New York media reporters became excited. Shouldn't they hurry over and get first-hand information?
On the plane.
Tony kept staring at Captain America, his gaze full of resentment.
Steve felt a bit uncomfortable being watched. He leaned to the left, and Tony followed him to the left. He leaned to the right, and Tony followed him to the right.
"What in the world are you doing?! I've already called Happy and asked him to help you arrange a Playboy cover girl." Steve rubbed his head. Being stared at by a man, it was really a bit too gay, he couldn't stand it.
"You watched me for three months, can't I watch you for a bit?" Tony was clearly still grumbling about this matter. It wasn't going to pass!
"Without these three months, could you have become Iron Man?" Steve picked up a Playboy magazine and began to read it, "From that perspective, you should be thanking me."
Iron Man?
Tony thought the name was quite good, and after this experience, he had two ideas.
"What do you think about me shutting down the company's international weapons manufacturing division?"
This was a very bold idea, which would cut off many things!
First was the connection and beneficial relationships with the Military!
Second was the interests of the company's board of Directors. This action would inevitably lead to a significant drop in stock prices, and they would definitely find it inappropriate, wanting to remove Tony from the board.
As for morality?
Morality was worthless; with it, he couldn't make money!
Steve expressionlessly flipped through the magazine. It was indeed very pleasing to the eye. There were a few lingerie outfits he could have Sharon and Hill try when he got back; Pepper could too.
"That's fine. I remember you have an Arc Reactor, don't you? It can be used as a new energy source and is also very profitable. As long as you have profitable projects, closing a weapons sales division is nothing."
He was completely clear-headed!
Rhodes looked at Tony with some suspicion. Once weapons sales were cut off, there would be no connection between them. "Tony, don't mess with me!"
"Haha, let him give you this suit of armor. With such new weapons, you'll inevitably interact with Tony in the future, and the dilemma will resolve itself!" Steve helplessly cupped his hands. How could they be so foolish!
This was indeed a good choice!
Mainly because Rhodes could be trusted!
Tony, on the other hand, looked at Steve unhappily. He had a feeling of being led by the nose. "You seem very smart?"
"The serum strengthens not only the body but also intelligence!" Steve pointed to his head, and just as Tonywas about to retort, he added, "It's definitely not comparable to yours."
This sudden humility blocked Tony's words again.
This awkward situation was like the unspeakable difficulties of middle age!
"Cough, cough, I'll give you that you're smart." Tony also made up his mind. After returning, he would close the weapons manufacturing division. Witnessing the people who protected him die by his own weapons, that feeling was not good!
Guilt!
Remorse!
Chapter 20: Hill arranges for her husband Captain America to take over
It was early morning.
Sunlight spilled onto the sheets, and Steve stretched.
He slowly got up and glanced at Hill, who was still asleep.
A beauty like water, with an inner charm like clouds; if his kidneys weren't good, he really might not be able to handle it.
Ring, ring, ring!
The phone rang, and Hill mumbled, reaching for her phone, "Hello, this is Hill."
"Officer, the source of this unrest has been found; it's being led by a hybrid Vampire named Firth."
"Oh, call Blade to the conference room for a meeting." Hill's sleepiness was also dispelled; as an Agent, she had that much self-control.
Turning to Steve, she said, "Husband, we have another mission to execute."
"No problem, we still have time. I'll teach you some aerobic exercises," Steve chuckled, pouncing on her.
Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, old time is still a-flying!
An hour later, in the S.H.I.E.L.D. building conference room.
A rosy-cheeked Hill walked in wearing high heels, followed by Captain America Steve.
Taking the documents from her assistant, Hill quickly entered work mode.
Her earlier smile had turned into cold frost, and the aura of an ice queen made her unapproachable.
Blade, wearing sunglasses in broad daylight, extended his hand to Captain America, who was sitting next to him, showing his signature white teeth, "Hello, Captain."
"Hello, Brooks," Steve shook his hand, acknowledging the greeting.
A picture appeared on the screen projection: a pale-faced Vampire with cunning eyes, exuding an unruly arrogance.
"This is our target, Firth.
According to intelligence, he is the external representative of the Vampire Council."
Hill clicked on the picture, which was a map of New York.
Many red dots were marked on it, all nightclubs.
"He has recently shown an intention to expand externally and has broken the agreement for Vampires and humans to coexist.
We are unable to contact the Elders of the VampireCouncil, so the only thing we can do now is take him down!"
Hill took the pointer and pointed at Firth's photo.
To catch a thief, first catch his king; as long as Firth is taken down, the other Vampires will be a scattered mess, and they can be dealt with slowly.
Steve also noticed another dark-skinned woman present; she wasn't a S.H.I.E.L.D. employee, but she had the right to sit there?
Hill smiled at Steve, then returned to her cold demeanor, "That's Doctor Karen, she's a hematologist.
Recently, she's been developing an anticoagulant that restrains Vampires, and it's quite effective."
No wonder an outsider could sit here; it turned out she was a scientist.
"When do we depart?
Have you found his location?" Steve asked two crucial questions.
"We depart at eight tonight; the target is Firth Tower.
This is Firth's stronghold.
If he's not there, then destroy this place to force him out!"
Hill leaned on the table with both hands; her cold demeanor combined with her graceful figure gave people an urge to conquer her.
"Steve will lead this mission, with Brooks as support.
Additionally, an experienced special forces team will be under your command, Captain.
Do well."
Hill subtly winked; this was a promotion credit she was giving her husband.
The more credit, the more they could strive for.
With them working together as a couple, nothing could stop them!
This was also Hill's little plan, to take the opportunity to promote her husband's position.
In the future, if she had children, when she took maternity leave, her husband wouldn't be isolated and helpless within S.H.I.E.L.D.
To become a Level 9 Agent and Deputy Director, Hill had actually planned everything out long ago.
Moreover, she acted according to regulations, leaving no room for criticism.
Evening.
The latest newspaper was out, with a shocking message.
'Stark Industries Closes International Weapons Production Department, Exits Arms Industry!'
'Stark Industries Stock Plummets!
Chairman Tony Kicked Off Board!'
Steve had expected this, while Pepper resigned from her private assistant role and was appointed President of Stark Industries.
Obama dared not easily deal with her, ruling out the possibility of her being Tony's informant.
Pepper's boyfriend was a S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent, the famous Captain America.
Obama could scheme against Tony because Tony, besides being rich, had no other influential background.
But Steve was different; he was Captain America, and after decades of propaganda, he had long become a national idol.
Blade, meanwhile, tied himself up, picked up a syringe, and injected himself.
Seeing Steve look over, he had no qualms, and his white teeth still showed the Vampires' characteristic fangs.
"I must use a serum to suppress my bloodlust every so often, otherwise I'll become an irrational killer."
Half-human, half-Vampire was not invincible; there were weaknesses.
Physically, he couldn't compare to a Super Soldier, but he excelled in agility and the ability to heal injuries by drinking blood.
And he also had a function that the Super Soldier Serumdidn't: longevity!
Even the most inferior Vampires, if they lived peacefully and ensured sufficient blood, could live up to three hundred years, typically five hundred years!
Compared to humans, whose lifespan is typically one hundred years, this was three to five times longer.
If Vampires themselves trained and improved their purity, the advantages would continue to increase, and living for a thousand years would not be an issue.
"Perhaps you could ask your girlfriend to research how to help you solve this problem." Steve put down the newspaper, still very interested in Vampires.
The strong only admire the strong.
Blade had seen Steve's combat footage and witnessed it firsthand.
He assessed him as strong and worth befriending!
"She's not my girlfriend!"
"Come on, if she's not yours, can't you still pursue her?" Steve said indifferently, then suddenly sighed.
This made Blade forget the pain of the injection, "Captain, something on your mind?"
"I just think it's a waste.
You know, those female Vampires are all quite beautiful, but it's a shame they're all like public buses, having slept with a thousand men; what a waste!
By the way, do you think there are any pure and beautiful female Vampires?"
This question was nothing like what the righteous, moral paragon, anti-war pioneer Captain America would ask!
Blade's brain seemed to short-circuit; this seemed to deviate somewhat from the traditional Captain America!
"No, but there might be some in the Vampire Council.
I'll keep an eye out for you next time." After Bladefinished speaking, he suddenly looked left and right, as if confirming whether it was safe.
Then he asked again, "Captain, aren't you worried your girlfriend will get jealous?"
"Jealous?
That's because your kidneys aren't good!
If your kidneys were good, they wouldn't be able to handle it and would wish you'd find them more sisters." Steve patted Blade's shoulder, imparting wisdom as a senior.
This made Blade's face darken.
Well, becoming a Vampire wasn't good for the kidneys; if you were going to have kidney deficiency, you'd still be impotent, and even immortals couldn't save you.