Chapter 67 Good and Evil
Suddenly, Winter Soldier saw the demon in front of him, its eyes glowing.
Fortunately, he reacted quickly enough to raise his metal arm to block.
Two laser beams shot from Arthur's eyes, striking Winter Soldier's metal arm and erupting in a shower of sparks.
Winter Soldier dodged backward, glancing at the two black marks on his metal arm.
Arthur, however, shook his head slightly.
The power of the Talismans before they were unsealed was too weak.
If the Pig Talisman were maxed out, this attack could probably easily pierce Winter Soldier's metal arm.
No emotion could be seen in Winter Soldier's eyes.
Now he was in a dilemma, only able to raise his metal arm and confront Arthur.
"You're much more useful than Hawkeye!" Arthursuddenly said, which was his praise.
Monitoring 'Anti-Hero: Winter Soldier', 'Tiger Talisman' has been unsealed and can be upgraded with villain points.
Try to make Winter Soldier generate negative emotions; more surprises await your exploration!
Arthur had specifically sought out Hawkeye but gained nothing, yet casually playing with Winter Soldier unsealed the Tiger Talisman.
This was something he hadn't expected.
The Tiger Talisman was the fifth Talisman he had unsealed, bringing him one step closer to his goal of unsealing all of them.
Tiger Talisman Lv1: Grants the holder the power of doppelgangers.
When using the power of doppelgangers, the holder will split into two individuals influenced by good and evil, and each individual will retain all of the original body's power.
Tiger Talisman Lv1: Can balance all the power within the holder, allowing you to acquire power beyond that of the Talismans.
Tiger Talisman Lv1: Upgrading to Lv2 requires 90,000 villain points.
You will gain the power of doppelgangers, able to create a greater number of doppelgangers, but the power possessed by the doppelgangers will be reduced.
After upgrading, your power of balance can also be applied to other targets, including non-living entities.
Your subjective consciousness can continuously transfer between individuals, unaffected by time and space.
Subjective consciousness can terminate doppelgangers, but subjective consciousness will also be influenced by the doppelganger's perception of good and evil.
The Tiger Talisman's level can be increased through the system.
Upon reaching Lv11, you will gain the ability to divide power.
You can divide the energy you possess, and this ability can also be applied to other targets, but if the target's energy is greater than the energy possessed by the Dragon Talisman, the Tiger Talisman will not be effective against that target.
At this moment, Arthur's Talisman status also updated:
villain points: 7054;
Rabbit Talisman Lv11, unable to upgrade state;
Dragon Talisman Lv7, villain points required to upgrade to Lv11: 225000;
Rat Talisman Lv1, villain points required to upgrade to Lv11: 525000;
Snake Talisman Lv3, villain points required to upgrade to Lv11: 620000;
Tiger Talisman Lv1, villain points required to upgrade to Lv11: 1125000;
Arthur now had only one thought: the "Demon Project" that would make all humans feel fear must proceed smoothly!
Otherwise, with the meager villain points he harvested daily on the streets of New York, by the time Thanossnapped his fingers, the Twelve Talismans would probably still not be maxed out...
Lights from a distant intersection shone on Winter Soldier's face, making him squint.
S.H.I.E.L.D.'s reinforcements had arrived.
Some immediately began rescue efforts on the burning bulletproof SUV, and desperate, chilling wails continued to emanate from the rising flames...
This bulletproof SUV was extremely sturdy; even after taking a direct hit from a man-portable missile, the people inside had not suffered fatal injuries.
However, the Dragon Talisman's explosive flames had an extremely high temperature, and a direct hit caused a violent explosion, with the heat wave instantly igniting all flammable materials inside the vehicle.
S.H.I.E.L.D.'s support team also dispatched Agents to pursue the person who attacked Director Nick's vehicle, and the convoy was speeding down the highway.
Winter Soldier vigilantly stared at the demon hovering in the air, but he suddenly noticed the demon seemed to be distracted, standing motionless in the distance...
Winter Soldier glanced at the demon, then at the approaching S.H.I.E.L.D. convoy, and decisively turned and fled.
A few seconds later, Arthur came back to his senses.
He watched Winter Soldier's retreating figure without reaction.
Suddenly, he turned and saw S.H.I.E.L.D.'s support division.
Undoubtedly, Captain America would be among them, as he was considered the strongest combatant among the Agents...
Suddenly, Arthur came up with a fun game: What would happen if the currently brainwashed Winter Soldier met Captain America?
Of course, before that, he would first remove Winter Soldier's mask so that Captain America would recognize Bucky, his good friend from World War II...
Arthur's execution ability had always been strong.
He swooped down in the direction Winter Soldier had fled.
With the Rabbit Talisman's enhancement, Arthur had yet to encounter anyone faster than him.
Arthur once again activated the Rabbit Talisman to increase his speed, and he brushed past Winter Soldier.
Just as Winter Soldier reacted, his mask had already been torn off by Arthur.
However, Arthur currently only had the ability to kill Winter Soldier, not to subdue him...
So Arthur could only continuously use the Rabbit Talisman and Snake Talisman to entangle Winter Soldier, making it impossible for him to move, forcing him to stay in place.
Winter Soldier faced the troublesome demon with a face full of murderous intent, but he had no way to escape from the demon's grasp, let alone kill the demon...
He heard the roar of car engines approaching, until they surrounded him.
"Captain Rogers, it's the demon, and the assassin who attacked Director Nick!" Natasha said from the driver's seat.
"I thought they were working together!"
After Director Nick was attacked, the Agents who hadn't lost consciousness in the overturned car reported this information to them.
But Captain America didn't reply.
Natasha then pressed, "What should we do now?"
Captain America still didn't react.
Natasha turned her head; Captain America beside her was already stunned, his expression indescribable...
"Bucky?" Captain America muttered to himself in disbelief.
Captain America would never forget that scene: Buckyfalling off the cliff, his desperate screams echoing through the empty snowy valley...
This had once been his greatest regret.
The car lights shone on that familiar face.
Captain America saw it clearly, but he still couldn't accept this reality...
He was overjoyed that Bucky, who had been presumed dead, was alive.
They had once fought side by side, taking down HYDRABase after Base, but now Bucky had become an assassin; he had just attacked Director Nick...
After the Agents got out of their cars, they raised their guns, awaiting orders.
Captain America's voice rang out in everyone's earpieces: "Everyone, lower your weapons."
Although the Agents were very confused, they still carried out Captain America's order, after all, the assassin was now surrounded and had nowhere to escape...
Of course, the demon was an exception; no Agent had yet thought of trying to apprehend the demon.
"Captain Rogers!" the demon's voice rang out.
"I'm sorry for taking your shield last time, so tonight I'll return an old friend to you."
With that, Arthur flashed behind Winter Soldier and punched him to the ground.
As soon as Winter Soldier got up, he saw Captain Americarunning towards him, and he met him without hesitation.
And the culprit, Arthur, had already quietly disappeared into the night...
Thanks to reader "Xiao Guai Shou San Sui Le" for the 6000-point building-block reward.
Chapter 68 Iron Overlord
As Captain America approached, Winter Soldier pulled a dagger from his thigh, gripping it in a reverse hold, his eyes filled with ferocity.
Winter Soldier stared at Captain America's movements, poised to strike, waiting for the right moment. If the distance was close enough or Captain America showed a weakness, he would unleash a killing blow instantly, leaving no room for error.
"Bucky? You're still alive..." Captain America's emotions were intense. "How did you end up like this?"
Winter Soldier's expression remained unchanged as he tightened his grip on the dagger.
"Bucky?" Captain America looked at the unresponsive Winter Soldier with some confusion. "You don't recognize me?"
"Who is Bucky?" Winter Soldier pulled out a pistol from behind him and fired.
Fortunately, Captain America, with his rich combat experience, rolled to dodge the moment Winter Soldierdrew his gun. Without his shield, he couldn't withstand bullets. Several bullets hit the asphalt, sparking. Captain America then used a precise kick to disarm Winter Soldierof his pistol.
The two became entangled in a fight. The assassin's strength was surprisingly on par with Captain America's, which greatly astonished the Agents present.
They exchanged blows, with Captain America even gaining a slight upper hand in their fisticuffs, but Winter Soldier's metal arm had strong offensive and defensive capabilities. Without his shield, Captain America gradually found himself unable to cope.
Winter Soldier swung his metal arm at Captain America. After Captain America blocked it, the dagger in his right hand sliced across Captain America's abdomen!
Fortunately, Captain America's reaction speed was quick enough to pull in his stomach in time. The tip of the blade only cut a very shallow gash after slicing through his uniform.
"We've known each other since we were kids!" Captain America grabbed Winter Soldier's hand holding the dagger. "What exactly happened to you?"
Winter Soldier slammed his forehead into Captain America, and his metal arm brutally struck Captain America's head. Captain America was knocked to the ground, blood flowing from his forehead.
"I've never known you!"
Winter Soldier prepared to attack again, but as he took one step, he was shot in the abdomen.
"Drop your weapon and kneel!" Natasha said coldly, raising her pistol.
Winter Soldier turned to look around. A dozen Agents had him surrounded, their guns raised, and the red dots from their aiming aids densely covered his body.
"Last warning, drop your weapon and kneel!" Natashashouted, aiming at Winter Soldier's head.
Winter Soldier could only comply. He threw down the dagger and knelt on the ground.
The Agents' encirclement tightened, with several red dots even moving to his forehead. If he made the slightest move, there was no doubt that this group of Agents would shoot him dead.
Natasha waved her hand, and two Agents produced reinforced handcuffs specially made by S.H.I.E.L.D. for super-powered individuals. It wasn't until the handcuffs were on Winter Soldier that all the Agents finally breathed a sigh of relief.
Captain America got up from the ground. He turned his head to look at Winter Soldier being escorted into the car, his eyes filled with complex emotions.
"If you hold back when facing an enemy, you will die, and you might kill all of us," Natasha said, looking back at the extinguished fire in the distance. "People have already died tonight."
"He's not my enemy; he's my brother and my comrade," Captain America said, lowering his head. "It's him, I'm sure... but he looked at me like that, and didn't recognize me."
"Bucky's unit was captured in 1943. Dr. Zola used them for human experiments. Perhaps because of that, Bucky didn't die after falling off the cliff with me during a mission," Captain America whispered. "It's all my fault."
"It's not your fault, Captain..."
"What will happen to him?" Captain America turned to Natasha. "Will Bucky be sentenced to death?"
"If he's about to be executed, would you shoot us to save him?" Natasha asked. "Or would you watch him die?"
"I don't know..."
Natasha shook her head with some disappointment. "He won't die, but he will stay in a secret S.H.I.E.L.D. prison for a long time. The technical department will be interested in that metal arm of his."
After Natasha finished speaking, she turned and got into the car escorting Winter Soldier. The car started and drove back to the Base... A red and yellow figure streaked across Brooklyn Bridge, the flames burning behind him very conspicuous in the dark sky.
"It's Iron Man!"
Someone on the bridge shouted, hastily pulling out his phone to record.
Arthur, who was sitting on top of Brooklyn Bridgeenjoying the night breeze, also slightly turned his head, watching Iron Man's retreating figure.
"Energy remaining 48%, and it's still dropping, sir," Jarvisreminded him. "This heart wasn't designed for sustained flight. It might not be enough to last until the end of the battle."
"Increase power output, faster!" Tony was anxious. "Report energy status at all times."
Finally, after flying over a block, Tony saw the buildings of Stark Industries Park.
Jarvis transmitted the scanned image to the screen. Pottswas fleeing ahead, with a massive mech relentlessly pursuing her from behind.
Stane had actually built an Iron Armor, and he had equipped it with a large number of high-lethality weapons. From its appearance, Tony knew that Stane's Iron Mongerpossessed greater destructive power than his Mark series... "Energy dropped to 45%."
At this point, Tony was less than a hundred meters from Iron Monger.
"Concentrate energy to the chest!" Tony commanded.
The Iron Armor streaked across the night sky. Iron Mongerturned upon hearing the sound. By then, Tony's armor had completed its charge, and a powerful energy beam shot from his chest!
The power of Iron Man's chest repulsor far exceeded that of his palm repulsors. The powerful impact sent Iron Monger flying backward.
"Energy dropped to 32%."
"Tony!" Potts exclaimed, her tear-streaked face filled with terror.
"Go somewhere safe first, Potts!" Tony said confidently. "I'll deal with him..."
Before Tony could finish speaking, shoulder-mounted Rockets fired by Iron Monger hit him.
Tony plummeted in the explosion, crashing onto the concrete ground and leaving deep gouges.
"Tony, this thing is absolutely your most perfect design! None other!" Stane yelled excitedly. "I am incredibly strong now!"
The massive Iron Monger ran down the road like an elephant. Iron Man had just gotten up when he was embraced by him.
"Concentrate energy to my feet, or he'll strangle me!"
Iron Man's feet spewed brilliant electric arcs, but he still couldn't break free from Iron Monger's embrace. Iron Monger held him, forcefully breaking through two walls and smashing onto the road behind the building.
Iron Man hit the ground hard, rolling over ten meters before stopping.
"Sir, your probability of concussion is 79%..."
An unlucky taxi was flattened by the flying Iron Monger. Several cars slammed on their brakes, slowing down as they passed him, leaving dark skid marks on the road. Of course, there were also more unlucky drivers who crashed into Iron Monger's rear... Iron Monger lifted the car, "I am the strongest!"
I've read many reviews, and I know how to adjust. I'll have fun when it's time to have fun, and I won't go easy when it's time to be ruthless.
Chapter 69: Hero Appears
"Put it down, Stane! Don't hurt those innocent people," Tony said loudly, reaching out his hand.
"Too bad for them!" Stane said indifferently, "Tony, we both profit from death, why are you acting all righteous now?"
Iron Monger swung around with the car, and he actually threw the one-ton sedan dozens of meters away onto the overpass!
"No!" Tony cried out in grief and indignation.
"This suit should be mine to control. In your hands, it's just a flying toy, but in my hands, it can become a battlefield overlord!" Iron Monger reached out again, stopping another car and lifting it. "You want to save them, don't you? I'll give you the chance!"
This time, Iron Monger threw the car at Iron Man. The three passengers inside screamed continuously. Iron Manlaboriously caught the flying car, and the asphalt road beneath his feet shattered from the impact.
Iron Monger raised his arm, and Iron Man saw a red dot shoot onto his chest.
"Oh, damn it!" Tony quickly threw the car he was holding to the side.
"Boom!"
Stane truly lived up to his reputation as a mad arms dealer; everything he loaded onto Iron Monger was a top-tier weapon from Stark Industries. These combined armaments forced Tony to retreat again and again!
"Energy down to 19%."
"Don't tell me that, just put the progress bar on the screen!" Tony quickly gave the order, "Supply all energy to the propulsion system!"
Iron Man began to ascend. At his flying speed, Iron Mongercouldn't aim at all. Iron Monger wasn't equipped with an AI system like Jarvis, so his targeting system was far inferior to Iron Man's.
After several missed shots, Iron Monger didn't waste any more ammunition. Large amounts of fire sprayed from his legs, and Iron Monger's massive body began to slowly ascend, accelerating continuously.
"Tony, it's a good thing I added a flight system too!" Stanesaid triumphantly, "Where can you run now?"
"Sir, his armor also seems to be able to fly..."
"I see it, OK?"
Tony controlled the armor and began to fly vertically upwards, continuously increasing his altitude.
Iron Monger also chased after him. Stane knew how much of a genius Tony was; Tony even surpassed his old partner, Howard Stark. So Stane knew what terrible consequences there would be if Tony escaped... "Sir, do you intend to fly to high altitude to cause icing problems for his armor?" Jarvis reminded him, "But with the remaining energy, the probability of flying to the extreme altitude is percent..."
"I know!" Tony said calmly, "Full throttle, buddy!"
As the creator of the armor, Tony naturally knew these things, but now he had no other choice.
This war was inherently unfair. Stane had stolen his upgraded Arc Reactor, and he could only fight with the first-generation Arc Reactor... Stane was able to create Iron Monger entirely because of him, so Tony had to destroy Iron Monger. This was his mission!
... "Help me!" A girl in a dress dangled in the air, her hands desperately gripping the broken metal railing on the overpass. "Someone help me!"
The girl's golden hair swayed in the air, and the night wind lifted her long dress like it was parting a flower petal. But her situation was extremely dangerous; she could fall and wither at any moment.
In just ten seconds, her hands ached, as if about to lose strength. But the girl desperately held onto the metal pipe, refusing to let go. She kept calling for help, hoping to encounter a passing Superhero to save her!
"Hero entrance!"
A righteous voice came from the sky, from far to near, bringing with it a whistling wind.
The girl's cries for help grew louder, even drowning out the cacophony of car horns, "Help me!"
"Beautiful lady, your life shall be saved by me!" A captivating voice came from behind the girl. She felt a pair of hands spread open beneath her armpits, lifting her up with force, and his fingers were very long... "I'm so sorry, lady! I was just watching those two tin men fight and didn't notice your crisis." The person behind her said with a tone of "guilt."
"Thank you, sir! Thank you for saving me, you appeared just in time..." The girl said loudly. As she spoke, she leaned back, wanting to see which Superhero had saved her.
But what the girl saw was a smiling demon mask... "Ah!!!" The girl screamed until her voice broke.
"Sonic attack? Are you also a Superhero?" Arthur looked up in disgust, "You're not a fan of the demon? Well then, good luck, bye bye!"
As Arthur spoke, he let go, and the girl began to fall, accelerating continuously. She felt herself plummeting and could only continue screaming frantically.
Arthur quickly scooped her up again. He grabbed the back of the girl's collar and flew upwards.
"I'm your fan, Mr. Demon! It's so great to meet you!" The girl practically roared, "You're my idol, you're my Superhero!"
"Hello, fan friend! Do you need a photo together? Or an autograph..."
Arthur trailed off, stunned, because he no longer felt any weight in his hands. He held the torn dress, his face full of doubt: "Inferior product?"
Just an hour ago, he had been holding Hawkeye by the back of his collar, giving him a bungee jumping experience with a full sense of excitement. The speed was so fast that Hawkeye's clothes had held up... The girl, without her dress, was screaming again as she fell... Arthur scooped her up once more, this time choosing a thoughtful princess carry.
The trembling girl gasped in Arthur's arms. She had never felt such a secure embrace!
"Uh... let's continue our previous topic. I can also sign my autograph on you." Arthur glanced at her, "I have to say, black lace shows great taste!"
Arthur returned the girl to the ground. Her legs trembled, and she immediately knelt.
"Good luck, beautiful lady!" Arthur said and flew away. The torn dress floated down onto the girl's head.
Arthur arrived on the roof of the Stark factory building. He looked up at the dark night sky, vaguely seeing two falling figures.
He raised his hand, aimed, and activated the Dragon Talisman.
"Backup energy enabled. Emergency landing initiated, sir."
Iron Man was making a difficult forced landing when suddenly a pillar of flame shot from the ground and hit him!
"Boom!"
"Sir, armor damage 30%!"
The armor lost control and began to descend vertically.
Amidst Tony's exclamations, the armor crashed heavily onto the factory roof, creating a hole and finally stopping on the second floor.
"Sir, armor damage 59%."
"Shit! If I find out who ambushed me, I'll definitely..."
"Are you alright?" Suddenly, a person stood at the hole, looking down at him, "Mr. Stark."
"Demon?" Tony swallowed his previous words, "As you can see, I'm fine, Mr. Demon! It's just, did you miss your shot just now..."
Chapter 70 The Devil's Gift
Iron Man wanted to fly to the top floor through the hole he had just smashed, but he didn't expect to get stuck in the opening...
The demon looked down at him, his face full of disdain.
He propped himself up with both hands, trying to crawl out, but he struggled for a long time without success.
"Jarvis?"
"Sir, are you sure you want to supply all remaining energy to the propulsion system?"
"Then forget it!"
He punched the concrete floor repeatedly, and with every punch, fragments splattered.
"Are you sure you don't want to lend a hand?"
Tony looked at the indifferent demon and said helplessly, "Friends should help each other..."
"Aren't we enemies? Everyone says you're a Superhero, and I'm an evil villain."
Arthur's tone was a bit strange, "As an enemy, it's already good that I'm not finishing you off right now, don't you think?"
"I knew it all along!" Tony said unhappily.
"Also, your factory is built very sturdily."
"Of course!" Tony's tone was full of pride, "Below is a giant Arc Reactor!"
The demon's reaction did not exceed Tony's expectations; do people who can befriend demons truly exist? It certainly wouldn't be him.
Only when the demon needed him were they friends.
This was very much in line with the demon's style.
Tony had never expected to receive help from the demon; as long as the demon could stand by and not interfere with his fight against Iron Monger, Tony would be satisfied.
Suddenly, Tony felt the floor vibrating...
He turned his head to look, and Iron Monger was running towards him; it seemed the high-altitude fall caused by the icing problem hadn't completely dealt with Iron Monger!
Tony broke out in a cold sweat looking at Iron Mongercharging like a rhinoceros.
He swung his fists, smashing the floor with force.
His remaining energy was insufficient to support firing energy blasts to repel Iron Monger...
At this moment, the demon, who had been observing, suddenly turned and asked, "Do you need help, Mr. Stark?"
"What?" Tony was a bit surprised; would the demon be so kind?
As Arthur spoke, he raised his hand and aimed it at the floor in front of Tony, and the Dragon totem slowly lit up.
It seemed the demon wanted to help him blast open the hard floor.
"No, no, no!" Tony quickly refused.
The image of the demon shattering the Mark4 suit with a single blow was still vivid in his mind...
Even if he got a beating from Iron Monger, he didn't want the demon to help him out of his predicament in this way.
Arthur smoothly turned and aimed at the charging Iron Monger.
The Dragon Talisman activated, and a crimson pillar of flame carrying powerful energy shot out, accurately hitting Iron Monger who was leaping forward!
"Boom!"
A huge explosion erupted, and the incoming heat wave even blew Arthur's clothes.
Iron Monger took a heavy blow and was sent flying to who knows where...
Tony was a bit curious why the demon would help him... It certainly couldn't be because he had previously helped the demon create the Iron Spider Suit and models; demons don't keep favors!
Was it because Iron Monger was too ugly?
It seemed the demon's aesthetic sense was also online; compared to that fat guy, the Mark series' red and yellow classic car paint and streamlined structure were undoubtedly much better...
Regardless, the current situation was favorable to him, and Tony could only bury these unsettling speculations in his heart.
"And you, my friend!" Tony gave Arthur a thumbs up, "You are the true hero!"
With that, he punched the floor open with all his might.
The arc pulse device in his feet worked with difficulty, intermittently spraying sparks, barely sending him to the top floor.
"Sir, I have captured Iron Monger's movement curve.
There is no offensive intent; he has started to flee."
It seemed Stane also recognized that the person standing on the factory roof was the demon.
The demon's powerful blow poured cold water on the excited Stane; Iron Monger couldn't let him do whatever he wanted in this World...
"I have to catch him!" Tony said with certainty, "Iron Mancan't let a mobile armory roam the streets of New York!"
He straightened his arms at his sides, spread his palms, and the arc pulse devices activated, emitting two faint bursts of fire.
But he had only flown a few meters when the suit stalled and fell back onto the top floor.
"Sir, all backup energy has been depleted..." After saying this, the suit also disconnected from Jarvis.
Tony lay on the floor, seeing the extinguished screen, and couldn't help but punch the floor hard.
"Fuck!"
If Stane hadn't ambushed him and stolen his Arc Reactor, the tide of this battle would have definitely turned!
He knew that his suit was built to deal with the demon and had been continuously upgraded to Mark5; with the Mark5's design, it could completely crush that Iron Monger!
But now his suit was out of energy and completely drained, obviously unable to continue pursuing Stane.
Was he just going to let Stane get away with wearing Iron Monger?
"It seems you need help." A calm voice came from the side; it was the demon.
Tony was covered in cold sweat, having forgotten about the demon who had just blasted him...
Now, let alone pursuing Iron Monger, how to safely survive the demon's presence was still a question.
"Of course! Can you lend me your phone?" Tony feigned composure, "I need to contact my assistant; the losses from this battle are considerable, and I need to call 911.
Right now, my head is dizzy, and my chest hurts; it must be a concussion and fractured ribs..."
"No, you don't need any of that." Arthur shook his head and said.
Tony, lying on the floor, vaguely saw the demon extend his hand and aim it at his chest, which instantly shone blindingly...
"No!" Tony exclaimed!
He seemed to feel the breath of death... But the next moment, the screen in front of him lit up.
"Sir, good evening." Jarvis reconnected to the suit and resumed work, "Energy remaining 50%!"
"What?" Tony was stunned...
A beam of energy shot from the dragon totem in Arthur's hand, directly connecting to Iron Man's Arc Reactor in his chest.
"Energy reserve 100%!"
Tony's mind had already crashed... "Energy reserve 200%!"
Tony reacted; the Arc Reactor he was currently using was very fragile and simply couldn't withstand an overload of energy storage.
"Enough, enough... Stop, Mr. Demon!"
"Energy reserve 300%!"
Arthur stopped the energy transfer, and Iron Maninstantly shot into the air.
"Medical miracle!" Arthur muttered to himself.
After he finished speaking, he turned and left.
Tony's mood, however, was somewhat heavy.
He shouted at the demon's retreating figure, "I never said I would exchange anything with you, Mr. Demon!"
"Free." The demon's voice dissipated into the night.
Tony's face grew even heavier.
He suddenly remembered a line Stefan Zweig said in 'Marie Antoinette: The Portrait of an Average Woman': "She was too young then to know that all gifts of fate are already marked with a price in secret..."
Tony stood dazed for more than ten seconds, only snapping back to reality at Jarvis's reminder.
He had no time to worry about what new conspiracy the demon was brewing; now he had to go judge Iron Monger!
"Jarvis, I feel like I'm going to explode; release some energy!"
A large amount of energy surged into the suit's propulsion system, and the four arc pulse devices worked in overload!
Iron Man shot out at high speed, instantly breaking the sound barrier...
[Detected a severe sense of awe from 'Iron Man'.
You have become a mysterious, powerful, incomprehensible, and unbeatable villain in his heart.
Reward: 200,000 villain points!]
Was this the surprise and special reward the system mentioned when the talismans were unsealed?
Arthur pondered...
Chapter 71 Gwen's Troubles
On Monday, the entrance of Midtown School of Science and Technology was a bit congested, with vehicles moving slowly.
In a black sedan, Gwen, sitting in the passenger seat, leaned against the window, staring outside.
It was early December, Christmas hadn't arrived yet, but the festive atmosphere already filled the entire New YorkCity. The greenery around the school was also decorated with ribbons, and beneath the fluttering ribbons were students walking and skateboarding, their youthful vitality palpable.
It was only then that Gwen suddenly realized this would be her last Christmas in middle school.
"It's been a long time since I drove you to school, it's changed so much. Luckily, I still remember the way..."
"You often drove me to school during my middle school years," Gwen said without turning her head.
"Of course, but ever since you started dating Arthur, you haven't ridden in my car to school," George said with a hint of emotion. "And I don't have to pick you up in the afternoon either. Although Arthur has reduced my trouble, I always feel like my sweetheart has been stolen by him..."
"I'm trouble?" Gwen was very displeased.
"Don't worry about it," George said with a smile. "It's Christmas again, what gift do you want? A brand new drum kit? A custom chocolate house cake? Oh... I remember, this year I'll have to prepare an extra Christmasgift!"
"Dad!" Gwen turned to look at George, her eyes full of resentment.
"So what happened between you two? Did you have a conflict? Or an argument?" George asked caringly. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't pry, but your mother and I are both very concerned about this, after all, this is our daughter's first relationship..."
"Nothing happened between us! Everything is as good as ever. Why would you ask that?" Gwen said curiously, "Can't it just be that he had something to do today? Even a full-time driver takes days off, let alone he's my boyfriend... Or maybe his old beat-up car was towed for repairs or something?"
"You stayed home all weekend, reading, studying, drumming... No dates, no calls... Your mother asked you to invite Arthur over for dinner, and you refused," Georgesaid, shrugging. "That's not how people in love act."
"I forgot you're an Officer..." Gwen said faintly, "You're very observant, Officer!"
"Thanks for the compliment!" George's face was full of memories: "When your mother and I were dating back then..."
"Stop! Stop! Stop! I know, you've said it many times!" Gwenwas defeated. "Alright, Dad, Arthur and I do have a little problem, but don't worry, I'll handle it myself..."
"I believe you!" George said. "After you make up, invite him to our house for Christmas. Your mother has been learning to cook Chinese food recently."
"OK! I'll get off here, bye bye!" Gwen said, picking up her backpack and getting out of the car as if escaping.
"Gwen!" George called out to her, "Look, the old beat-up car that was towed for repairs!"
George pointed to a Ford car parked on the side of the road, and Gwen recognized it as Arthur's old beat-up car at a glance... "..." Gwen covered her face with both hands and said nothing.
George smiled as he watched his daughter's retreating figure, "Gwen! Be patient when dealing with problems!"
Gwen raised her hand and waved, then hurried into the school gate without looking back.
Entering the campus, Gwen greeted several acquaintances with a smile, but her mood slowly worsened.
Gwen and Arthur hadn't been in contact for a whole weekend... Of course, Gwen had unilaterally cut off all communication.
That night, Gwen put on her Spider-Woman mask and entered Arthur's house, and Arthur actually kissed Spider-Woman... At the time, Gwen almost succumbed to the kiss, but she still came to her senses.
Gwen pushed Arthur away, breaking off the kiss, and put down the mask he had half-removed.
"If your girlfriend knew, she would be very disappointed..."
Gwen, or Spider-Woman, left Arthur's house after saying that.
To this day, Gwen still couldn't understand Arthur's kiss that night; it was clearly only his second meeting with Spider-Woman... It was this kiss that made Gwen so conflicted now. A strange thought even popped into her mind: she hoped that Shadow's true identity was Arthur... In this way, Arthur, as Shadow, would also know that Spider-Woman's true identity was her, and that's why Arthur would kiss Spider-Woman... In this way, Arthur would still be respecting their relationship.
But Gwen quickly dismissed this idea; Shadow was a criminal, an anti-hero, evil! As his girlfriend, she should hope that Arthur had no connection to Shadow!
Gwen walked through the campus with these strange thoughts, even deliberately taking a detour through a cobblestone path.
Suddenly, someone hugged her from behind... Gwenquickly broke free. The reason for her strong reaction was that her Spider-Sense hadn't warned her when someone approached!
"Gwen, you hung up on me all weekend, and just now you resisted my hug."
Gwen turned around and saw Arthur saying this while rubbing his hand.
"I'm so sorry..." Gwen said, full of apologies. She took Arthur's arm and carefully checked it. She had accidentally used too much force just now; an ordinary person definitely wouldn't have been able to withstand it.
But it was clear that Arthur was fine... He skillfully pulled Gwen into his embrace, wrapping his arms around her waist.
Gwen wasn't too surprised by this either; it wasn't the first time she had felt Arthur's uniqueness and mystery.
"Am I not even allowed to hug my girlfriend?" Arthurlooked into Gwen's eyes.
"It was just a bit sudden," Gwen explained, "I thought it was someone else..."
"Someone else? Then he must want a beating! And a very bad one at that," Arthur said with certainty.
Gwen smiled silently, "I allow you to use violence on him!"
Arthur lowered his head and kissed Gwen. Gwenresponded, but after a few seconds, she lowered her head, ending the kiss.
"What happened between us?" Arthur held her without letting go. "I don't see love in your eyes anymore, baby..."
Gwen shook her head. She looked at Arthur's face, and suddenly other thoughts arose... and other logical possibilities.
Arthur knew Spider-Woman's true identity, that night he knew he was kissing Gwen, and Arthur had no connection to Shadow; he was a super-powered individual hidden among ordinary people... For no reason, Gwen's mood brightened. Seeing Arthur, her troubles always quickly disappeared.
She accepted this possibility—Arthur was a super-powered individual who knew she was Spider-Woman, because she trusted her boyfriend.
"Nothing happened between us," Gwen said, looking at Arthur seriously. "I love you as much as ever."
Chapter 72 Separation of Good and Evil
"Have you guys seen the news? Last night at a Stark Industries factory, Iron Man fought another Iron Man!" A chubby Chinese-American boy in the classroom excitedly said, "They even ended up fighting in Times Square, and the Iron Man..."
"The Iron Man's head was ripped open, and the person inside was actually Obadiah Stane, a Director of Stark Industries!" Another classmate chimed in, "The entire New York knows! Come on, everyone uses the internet! This morning's newspaper also wrote about it."
"So who do you think Iron Man's true identity is?" The chubby boy said mysteriously, "Tony Stark? Or his bodyguard?"
The classroom instantly buzzed with discussion:
"What billionaire would personally do something so dangerous?"
"Isn't Tony Stark the editor-in-chief of tabloid news? Every issue of entertainment news I see has his name in it!"
..."Stark Industries is holding a press conference right now. Soon, Chairman Tony Stark will personally explain Iron Man's identity and the issues regarding Director Stane." The chubby boy held up his phone and said, "Anyone want to bet? Bet Iron Man is Stark..."
Gwen listened to the chatter and curiously pulled out her phone. She turned to look at Arthur at the back desk.
"Iron Man could be that playboy? Tony Stark?" Gwen said with a hint of disdain, "The first time I saw his name was also in an entertainment magazine; he consecutively had dinner with twelve magazine cover girls..."
"But he's also the most brilliant scientist in the World; his inventions far surpass the government's arms manufacturing departments," Arthur casually said. "The Iron Armor must have been his invention. Who wears it isn't important... Of course, it could only be him; that guy is too arrogant!"
"You seem to know a lot about these Superheroes..." Gwenstared at him, her eyes full of amusement.
"No, I'm a fan of Demon Project!" Arthur denied, "Everything is just speculation."
"Now Mr. Stark will make a statement and will not answer any questions, thank you." The live broadcast of the press conference on the phone was nearing its climax.
Amidst the exclamations of reporters and the flashing of camera lights, Tony Stark quickly walked onto the stage.
"The mystery is about to be revealed." Gwen placed her phone on her desk, propping her chin with her hand: "But even if he is Iron Man, I don't think he'll admit it, because that would lead to more trouble..."
"Questioning official statements is one thing; alluding to me being a Superhero is another..."
The person next to him leaned over and reminded Tony, who then picked up the script.
"Actually, the truth is..." Tony stared at the small piece of paper, momentarily stunned.
"I'm going to the restroom." Arthur touched Gwen's head and said, getting up to leave.
"You don't want to know the answer?" Gwen said to his retreating back.
Arthur turned back, smiled, and said nothing, walking out of the classroom.
Gwen stared at the screen. There was no sound in the classroom or from the live broadcast. Countless people were holding their breath, waiting for Tony to reveal the answer.
Camera flashes flickered on Tony's face... The camera kept zooming in, and his eyes slowly grew resolute.
"I am Iron Man..."
"Oh!" Exclamations erupted from both the classroom and the live broadcast. Whether it was the reporters on-site or the students watching the live stream, everyone was in an uproar.
Gwen turned to stare in the direction Arthur had left... It wasn't until class time that Arthur entered the classroom just as the bell rang, and Gwen didn't get a chance to speak with him.
The teacher entered the classroom. Gwen looked back at Arthur, who smiled at her... She was stunned.
Arthur's smile was too unfamiliar... Gwen knew very well what Arthur looked like when he smiled; he would habitually raise one corner of his mouth 45 degrees, smiling with a bit of roguishness, even making one feel a faint disdain, like an arrogant villain mocking you.
But now, when Arthur smiled, he actually showed eight teeth... Gwen's feeling could be described in one word: refreshing.
Moreover, warmth and purity emanated from Arthur's eyes... Gwen shook these chaotic thoughts out of her head and opened her textbook... Arthur... or rather, the evil Arthur, was flying towards S.H.I.E.L.D.'s headquarters, the Triskelion. Pierce had just contacted him via that email about an emergency regarding "Demon Project."
Demon Project was important, but Arthur couldn't just skip class and leave.
So he upgraded the Tiger Talisman and used its clone ability, letting his good clone go to school for him, while his primary consciousness controlled the evil clone to rush to the Triskelion.
Fortunately, the "more surprises" from Iron Man last night triggered, earning him 200,000 villain points, otherwise he wouldn't have been able to upgrade the Tiger Talisman.
The Tiger Talisman could be used without upgrading, but the drawback was that the primary consciousness could only stay with one clone. The cautious Arthur naturally wouldn't let another clone escape his control... A few minutes ago, at the Triskelion, Captain America had just argued with Pierce about Director Nick's attack.
Director Nick Fury was confirmed dead early this morning, with both the hospital and S.H.I.E.L.D. issuing death reports. In S.H.I.E.L.D.'s internal files, the attackers were Demon Project and the Winter Soldier.
But last night, Nick crawled out of that Fire, his will to survive astonishing!
During the rescue, he regained consciousness multiple times and had a secret conversation with Captain America. No one knew the content of their discussion.
So this morning, Pierce asked Captain America what Nick said before he died, but Captain America brushed him off, which made him very dissatisfied.
Captain America left the office and walked directly to the glass observation elevator, pressing the button for the first floor.
The observation elevator descended, and people got on at intermediate floors. By the time the elevator reached the central administrative floor, it was full of people. Captain America observed them; they were all S.H.I.E.L.D.employees.
"Captain, regarding Fury, I'm very sorry." Agent Rumlowturned his head and said with some sadness, "It's a tragedy."
"Thank you," Captain America said.
The battle-hardened Captain America quickly noticed the subtle movements of these people: some were sweating nervously, some couldn't help but rest their hands on their gun holsters, some were adjusting their breathing... "Before we make a move, does anyone want to get out?"
"Zzz!" Rumlow adjusted the taser in his hand to its highest power and forcefully jabbed it into Captain America's abdomen... Agent Sitwell watched the fight in the elevator via surveillance, his eyes wide in disbelief!
"Are you kidding me?"
In just half a minute, all the Agents in the elevator were down and incapacitated. Captain America dealt with them effortlessly!
The current scene showed Captain America charging through S.H.I.E.L.D. guards and exiting the Triskelion's main doors.
"It's a Level One alert. Notify the Department of Transportation; all intersections in the special zone are to turn red, and all runways at nearby airports are to be locked down." Sitwell issued commands to the staff: "Track all communication devices: phones, computers, tablets. Check everything that can be checked. If anyone tweets about him, I want to know immediately... We need to apprehend Steve Rogers as soon as possible!"
Chapter 73 Arresting Captain America
"So he broke through S.H.I.E.L.D. guards alone? Where did all the security funds we give S.H.I.E.L.D. every year go? I think the first thing the new Director should do is investigate S.H.I.E.L.D.'s financial issues from previous years!" a council member said angrily.
On the top floor of the Triskelion, the World Security Council was holding a video conference, with representative council members from various countries participating via 3D video.
"Mr. Pierce, as the supervisor of S.H.I.E.L.D., you have also been derelict in this matter!" the female council member said. "You let Nick Fury mess up S.H.I.E.L.D.!"
"So, do I need to resign in disgrace?" Pierce said helplessly, spreading his hands.
"We'll discuss this later..."
"Did you really think about firing me?" Pierce looked incredulous.
"Nick Fury used his relationship with you to force the Council to delay the 'Insight Project.' He knew this project would expose his crimes!" a council member said, very angry.
Pierce said, "But he's already dead, and one murderer is still at large!"
"Arresting the Demon is the job of the next S.H.I.E.L.D.Director. Now we must immediately restart the 'Insight Project'!" This council member said decisively, "The three Sky Carriers must be airborne before Christmas Eve. This is the meaning of the World Security Council's existence. We want to make this World truly safe, to protect the public from the threat of Terrorists and criminals..."
The video conference ended, and Pierce returned to his office. After pushing open the door, he paused, then stepped back to look at the empty corridor before entering the office and closing the door.
"I hope you were careful enough not to be discovered by others when you came, Mr. Demon."
Pierce didn't go to the sofa area where the Demon was, but sat behind his desk, as if that could give him some sense of security.
"Before you say such foolish things, you should think with your brain. Do you really think S.H.I.E.L.D. is worthy of me being careful?" Arthur eyed him askance.
Pierce felt a tremor in his heart. Today, the Demon seemed unusual. From that mask, he not only saw strangeness and terror but also a hint of gloomy evil.
It seemed the Demon was in a very bad mood today, but in New York, who would dare to provoke the Demon?
Pierce had originally wanted to question the Demon about why he attacked HYDRA's people last night! It caused him to lose the powerful trump card that was the Winter Soldier!
But Pierce felt the Demon's state today and instantly swallowed those words back.
After all, there wasn't much difference between the Winter Soldier being held by S.H.I.E.L.D. and being under his control; he could easily create the illusion of the Winter Soldier successfully escaping. Moreover, these matters seemed insignificant compared to the "Insight Project"... Well, in front of the Demon, it had to be called the "Demon Project."
"I apologize for my remarks, Mr. Demon." Pierce was flexible. "Now, let me explain the situation to you. Early this morning, Nick Fury was confirmed dead. Through the meeting, we confirmed Steve Rogers..."
"Did I come all this way just to listen to your nonsense? Do I look like I have a lot of patience?" Arthur said coldly, "Get to the point!"
Cold sweat broke out on Pierce's forehead. "Steve Rogersescaped. Nick might have told him some important intelligence. If you don't want 'Demon Project' to have any accidents, I think it's best to have him under S.H.I.E.L.D.'s control until we get the intelligence from him."
Arthur actually sneered. He got up and walked towards Pierce. Pierce pressed his back tightly against the chair, with nowhere to retreat.
Arthur walked in front of Pierce, grabbed Pierce's collar across the desk, and pulled hard.
"Bang!"
Pierce slammed heavily onto the desk. He grunted, rolling back and forth on the desk, which almost dislocated the old man's bones.
"Are you threatening me, old man?" Arthur said coldly, "If 'Demon Project' has any mishaps, I promise you will die a miserable death, and Jesus won't be able to save you!"
"I'm not threatening you! I've put more effort into this project, and all of HYDRA hopes it succeeds." Pierceendured the pain. "But Steve Rogers will be an unstable factor, and my 'Winter Soldier' is unusable, so I can only rely on you to act..."
"It's hard to imagine that with just your HYDRA's strength, you're still dreaming of World domination every day." Arthur flung his collar away.
Arthur tore off a few pieces of tissue paper to wipe his hands, then casually threw them on the ground.
Pierce watched with wide eyes as the Demon flew through the glass and disappeared into the air. He slowly got up, picked up the papers and threw them into the trash can, then returned to his seat and pondered... Sam Wilson had served in the 58th Parachute Rescue Unit. After retiring, he worked at the Veterans Service Office. Thanks to that unforgettable military life, Sam developed a habit of daily exercise.
This morning, Sam, who had finished his morning workout, returned home. He had just opened the refrigerator to get a drink when his front door was knocked.
Sam pulled back the curtain and found that the person outside the door was "Running Man" Captain Rogers, whom they had met while running together.
Sam opened the door without hesitation.
"You don't look good, Captain." Sam said, staring at Captain America's arm, which had stopped bleeding.
"Sorry, I need a place to lie low right now." Captain America panted, "Although I really don't want to involve you..."
"Well, now I'm already involved!" Sam smiled carelessly, stepping aside to motion for Captain America to come in.
Inside the house, Sam was taking out a first-aid kit to help Captain America treat his injuries.
"So what exactly happened?" Sam was very curious. "You're Captain America, how did you end up as a fugitive?"
"There's a problem within S.H.I.E.L.D. Even the high-ranking officials have been infiltrated by HYDRA. Director Nick Fury is dead, and now it's chaos..."
"Who could kill Nick Fury?" Sam said in surprise, apparently he had also heard of the King of Agents' reputation.
"The Demon!"
"That Demon from the streets of New York? How could he be involved in the struggle between HYDRA and S.H.I.E.L.D.?" Sam fell silent.
Captain America held Sam's phone, a bit hesitant.
Director Nick had told him the full contents of the "Insight Project" before he died. Director Nick knew the current situation of S.H.I.E.L.D., but he also gave him three trustworthy Agents: Hawkeye, Black Widow, and Maria Hill.
But now Captain America didn't know who to contact; he didn't even know what the current situation was.
Suddenly, the door was knocked again. Sam and Captain America immediately became alert.
Captain America prepared to hide in the bedroom. He asked Sam with his eyes who could be outside the door.
Sam's dark face was also full of question marks. He gestured for Captain America to hide first, and he would open the door.
Sam cautiously pulled back the curtain first... With just that one glance, he held his breath!
Chapter 74: Evil
"Thump, thump, thump!"
The Demon looked him in the eye through the glass. A chill ran down Sam's spine. He was still flustered, but the Demon's expression had already changed; he looked very impatient!
Arthur extended his hand, and the extreme heat generated by the Dragon Talisman instantly melted the bulletproof glass. He quickly grabbed Sam by the collar.
Just as Sam saw Arthur's movement clearly, he was pulled against the door, his face and body pressed tightly against the glass.
"You have two choices: open the door or die!"
This door couldn't stop the Demon at all; he could easily break it open violently, but he still wanted Sam, the Masterof the room, to open the door... Sam felt the Demon's dominance and arrogance for the first time.
Sam's face was strained. He struggled to reach the doorknob and open the door. No one would doubt that the Demon's threat was just a bluff. Furthermore, he had just heard that Director Nick of S.H.I.E.L.D. died by the Demon's hand... Arthur released his grip and pushed, causing Samto fall to the ground. Arthur entered the room. He could already sense that Captain America was hiding in the back bedroom, but he wasn't in a hurry to drag him out.
"Mr. Demon, what is the purpose of your visit to my home?" Sam asked, gathering his courage. He forced himself to remain calm, knowing that a single misstep in front of the Demon could cost him his life.
Arthur didn't even look at him, shouting toward the interior of the house, "Captain Rogers!"
Even though Arthur knew Captain America was inside, he wasn't interested in dragging him out. Instead, he wanted Captain America to walk out himself... like a cat playing with a mouse!
"I'm sorry, Mr. Demon!" Sam walked forward.
Although he was extremely afraid of the Demon, he still wanted to help Captain America stall for time as much as possible.
Sam desperately tried to explain: "You might have the wrong person. My name is Sam Wilson, and I'm a retired serviceman. This is my private residence, and I don't have..."
Sam was cut off mid-sentence, lifted up one-handed by Arthur, and thrown across the room, shattering a glass table with a loud crash.
"Did I tell you to speak? You're not Captain America yet!" Arthur folded his arms, his eyes full of disdain. "First, a small punishment for you!"
A Pillar of Flame shot out from Arthur's palm. He waved his hand, destroying the sofa, floor, and walls in the room one by one.
The finely decorated apartment was reduced to ruins in Arthur's hands within seconds. Expensive appliances sparked as they exploded, walls were penetrated, and smoke rose from the scorched marks on the floor... Samwas stunned. This was the apartment he had worked hard for years to purchase! But it was all turned to ashes by the Demon... Inside, Captain America heard the commotion outside and couldn't help but clench his fists. He had considered escaping through the window, as HYDRA was brewing a conspiracy, and he bore a vital mission!
But if he escaped, the Demon would surely take his anger out on Sam. Sam had nothing to do with this originally; it was Captain America who dragged him into it... The sense of justice in Captain America's heart forbade him from fleeing, even when facing the powerful Demon!
Arthur slowly walked up to Sam. "Are you angry? Do you want to hit me? Throw a punch! Be a little braver!"
"Fuck!" Sam threw a punch with all his strength, aiming for the Demon's face!
Arthur knocked him down with one punch, then grabbed Sam's neck and lifted him up.
"Captain Rogers, my patience is limited!" Arthur smiled triumphantly. "Counting down from three. If you keep hiding in there, I'll burn him to ashes!"
"Don't bother counting," Captain America appeared before Arthur. He still couldn't convince himself to escape. "Put him down, Demon! Whatever you want, come at me!"
"Alright, as you wish..."
Arthur threw Sam with full force toward a nearby bookshelf. The wooden shelf was shattered, and Sam lay unconscious among the scattered books.
"You bastard!" Captain America punched furiously.
But he only hit an afterimage. Arthur, moving at extreme speed, easily knocked him to the ground.
After undergoing the "Super Soldier" Program, Captain America became the first Superhero. During that era of war, he was powerful, able to single-handedly destroy HYDRA Bases with just a shield.
But in modern times, Captain America's strength wasn't so overwhelming, especially in front of Arthur... Arthurpossessed the extreme speed of the Rabbit Talisman Lv11, making the fight against Captain America, who had limited attack methods, a complete rout!
"The first time you threw a punch at me, you were beaten up by a Panda and sent to the hospital." Saying this, Arthur kicked Captain America, who had charged up again, sending him tumbling.
"The second time, you tried to stop me, but I still killed Nick Fury. He screamed in a sea of Fire. Do you want to experience that feeling too?"
"Now you still dare to lay a hand on me? Captain Rogers, it seems you haven't learned enough of a lesson!"
Arthur gave an evil smile. He grabbed Captain America's hair, yanked his head up, and smashed it fiercely onto the floor!
Captain America raised his head, his face covered in blood. "Are you working with HYDRA?"
"Uh... that's a bold idea!" Arthur paused for a second, then lowered his head and laughed, saying, "Hail HYDRA!"
After saying that, Arthur continued to lift Captain America's face and smash it onto the floor again... Several hundred meters outside the apartment, in the greenery, S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents watched the scene of the Demon brutally beating Captain America through binoculars.
"Officer, shouldn't we go rescue Captain America now?" he asked. "The Demon who killed Director Nick is also there, we can arrest him at the same time!"
After the Agent finished speaking, everyone around him looked at him with complex expressions. The Agentimmediately felt a chill down his spine... "I approve you for solo action. Go," Agent Rumlow said, patting his shoulder. "I'll help you apply for the highest level of survivor benefits!"
As Rumlow spoke, he turned his head and looked around at everyone. Some Agents who understood his gaze nodded—those people were members of HYDRA.
"We still need to wait..." Rumlow whispered.
"Boom!" A ball of Fire flew from a distance, instantly exploding upon hitting the ground. The powerful Impactsent all the Agents flying!
...Midtown School of Science and Technology, Biology Laboratory.
Gwen's phone suddenly vibrated. She stepped away from the crowd, took out her phone in the corner of the Classroom, lowered the media volume, and held it to her ear to play the audio.
"Calling Headquarters. The Demon and a group of people of unknown identity were engaged in a firefight on 13th Street. When we arrived, we found Captain Americaunconscious in front of a Residential House..."
Gwen secretly used her father George's authority to easily hack into the New York Police Department's Communication Channel.
This greatly helped her Superhero work. Gwen could know about crimes happening in every area, making crime fighting twice as effective with half the effort, and also helping her avoid dangerous areas... such as areas where the Demon was present!
Listening to the police Officers' conversation, Gwen froze... Although the Demon was causing destruction again, a surge of joy welled up in her heart!
Gwen looked at Arthur among the crowd, her face full of tenderness.