Chapter 131: Meeting
Loki crawled up from between the shattered floor tiles. He leaned on the Mind Stone with one hand and clutched his painfully throbbing chest with the other, glaring at the two of them.
"Earthlings, you will feel pain..."
"Really?" A cold voice rang out behind Loki.
Loki turned around in a panic and locked eyes with Arthur. A chill instantly rose in his heart.
As a mage, to have someone get so close without him noticing was no small matter. It meant the opponent could launch a lethal strike at any moment, threatening his safety...
Before Loki could react, Arthur closed in and landed an uppercut on his chin. Loki instantly lost consciousness from the immense force, his body flying backward dozens of meters before plunging headfirst into a fountain pool.
"When did you become so... fierce?" Gwen paused before finding a suitable adjective.
Arthur blinked at her. "When was I ever not fierce?"
"Sorry to interrupt your adult conversation," Tony said, suppressing the shock in his heart. "Excuse me, Miss Spider, who is this? Your boyfriend? The one the Captainmentioned? The 'Holy Light' boy?"
"I didn't expect he was so famous..." Gwen said softly.
Arthur smiled and gave Tony a meaningful look.
Behind the helmet of his Iron Armor, Tony's expression was quite colorful. The person he had highly suspected of being a demon was suddenly standing right in front of him, and for a moment, he was at a loss.
However, Tony quickly adjusted his mindset. After all, there was no evidence to confirm all his suspicions, and regardless of the outcome, he needed to remain calm first.
"Of course he's famous. Christmas, Osborn Tower, the 'Holy Light' like a blessing from God..." Tony said. "Thanks for your help, but I need to take him away now. This Asgardian is very dangerous."
Gwen casually shot a web and grabbed Loki. With a gentle pull, she fished him out. Tony caught him, pressed him to the ground, and backhanded a pair of specialized handcuffs onto him.
"Thanks again for your help!" Tony said, picking up Loki. "Spider-Woman and the 'Holy Light' boy."
"I am not the 'Holy Light' boy. I have a name," Arthur said calmly.
"My apologies... I remember now, Arthur?" Tony thought about it but decided not to give Arthur a nickname. What if he didn't like it?
"An Asgardian? What is his relationship with Thor?" Gwenasked gossipingly.
"Biological brothers, the kind that fight tooth and nail for the throne of Asgard!" Tony didn't hide anything, as it wasn't a secret. He watched Gwen and Arthur's expressions. "After Loki retreated from Asgard, he thought about conquering Earth and even teamed up with demons... but now it seems like it was just his own wishful thinking."
"A very dramatic story!" Gwen commented.
"Really? I think so too." Tony smacked Loki's head. "A loser from Asgard, dreaming of finding victory on Earth. He really doesn't take us seriously."
"You? The Anti-Demon Alliance?" Arthur suddenly said. "I thought after yesterday, this organization would disband... After all, the commotion was quite significant."
"Yes, you're right, the commotion was indeed significant..." Tony was usually eloquent, but when asked this, he was momentarily speechless. "When I joined this organization, I never expected it to be smooth sailing. It's perfectly normal to encounter failure and setbacks in anything. As long as demons exist, the Anti-Demon Alliance will exist."
Faint applause rang out. It was actually Arthur clapping.
"So, how about it? Any interest in joining our alliance?" Tony recalled, "I remember the Captain once extended an olive branch to you before. He thought very highly of you..."
"Sorry, Mr. Stark, we don't have any such plans for now." If she were alone, she might consider it, but with Arthur by her side, she didn't want any conflict between Arthur and Iron Man. "But speaking of the Captain, how is he doing now?"
"This might not be the right place for chatting," Arthurinterrupted their conversation, pointing at the crowd still watching from afar.
The roar of a fighter jet engine came from the sky. A black aircraft quickly decelerated and hovered over the plaza.
"Holy Light... Arthur is right, I should go." Tony picked up the unconscious Loki. "You two, would you like to visit the Anti-Demon Alliance Base? The Captain is also at the Base; he's better at recruiting people."
"Is that okay?" Gwen looked at Arthur beside her with some delight. "Can we visit the Base even if we don't join the Anti-Demon Alliance?"
"Of course, the Anti-Demon Alliance is always open to you both." Tony muttered to himself, "There's already one tourist anyway..."
Gwen gave Arthur a pleading look. It seemed she was very interested in the Anti-Demon Alliance Base, as the Anti-Demon Alliance was an organization composed entirely of Superheroes, with members like Iron Man and Captain America—star-level Superheroes. The alliance upheld the philosophy of justice and had a righteous mission.
"Seven forty-five. If we head to the restaurant we booked now, will we still make it?" Arthur said.
In fact, he felt nothing toward the Anti-Demon AllianceBase—neither interested nor repulsed... But going was fine. Visiting the Anti-Demon Alliance from a demon's perspective would surely be interesting.
"There will, of course, be working meals at the Base," Tonyadded.
"Then we shall impose on you, Mr. Stark," Arthur said, meeting Gwen's gaze.
For some reason, when Tony heard Arthur call him Mr. Stark, he felt a sense of familiarity...
"Follow me!" Tony slowly flew up and entered through the open rear hatch of the aircraft.
Gwen jumped and shot a web. Arthur's figure followed behind her and flew in as well.
The aircraft hatch closed. Tony said to the stunned pilot in the cockpit, "Don't worry about whether I've been controlled by a demon. I'm just taking Spider-Woman and Arthur to visit the Base. If the Captain hears they're coming, he'll probably be looking forward to it!"
The pilot acknowledged and said nothing else. He started the aircraft to return and was the first to relay this news back to the Anti-Demon Alliance headquarters.
Tony casually tossed the still-unconscious Loki onto a chair and secured him. Then he turned to Arthur and said, "A very powerful punch. He's sleeping quite soundly now! Well done... I mean, if he were awake, I'd have to worry about accidents happening along the way every moment. After all, he is the God of Lies and Mischief."
"Thanks for the compliment," Arthur replied calmly.
"By the way, when did you learn close-quarters combat? Like fighting or boxing." Gwen suddenly recalled the scene from earlier. She bumped her shoulder against Arthur's. "Weren't you always a ranged mage? Manipulating various objects to attack others? I quite liked your elegant fighting style, but tonight you suddenly punched this Asgardiandozens of meters away!"
"People must always keep learning," Arthur smiled, "and throwing a punch is just another form of exerting power."
"I have to say, this form is very cool," Gwen said, locking eyes with Arthur.
"I never thought I'd see this day..." Tony muttered, watching the two interacting constantly. He took off his helmet and set it aside.
"Sorry, excuse me!" Tony interrupted. He looked at Arthur's casual outfit and unmasked face and asked, "Excuse me, Arthur, where are your uniform and mask?"
Gwen asked curiously, "Uniform and mask?"
"Yes, uniform and mask. Superheroes all need these things." Tony gave examples, "Like you, Spider-Woman, or my Iron Man Suit. Even the last-century Superhero Captain America has his uniform. Even the Asgardian Thor is no exception; he always wears a suit of armor with a red cape... He probably thinks it looks cool?"
"You haven't prepared these things yet? They're actually quite necessary. Uniforms and masks aren't just identifiers for Superheroes; they also provide defense and conceal one's identity. For instance, my identity is known to the public, which has caused a lot of trouble, such as internet public opinion and reactions from the government." Tonykept talking, "Do you need me to help you prepare these?"
"I can design it to be a couple's outfit with Spider-Woman's, or if you like a certain style, it can be custom-made." Tony paused and said, "Free service, and you don't need to join the Anti-Demon Alliance..."
"Mr. Stark," Gwen suddenly interrupted, "your tone seems to reveal sadness..."
"Sam Wilson. You should have met him during the last 'Demon Project,' Miss Spider." Tony said in a low voice, "Sam kept asking me to help him improve his flight pack, but I never had the time... He died in yesterday's war because his flight pack malfunctioned and he fell to his death."
"Sorry..." The kind-hearted Gwen was full of apologies.
"What's the use of guilt now? It's already happened, he's already dead." Arthur shook his head. "If you had helped him upgrade his equipment before the war started yesterday, he might have survived. He was a member of your alliance, yet you weren't willing to help him strengthen his combat power. And you knew you were facing demons so powerful they were unbeatable, and everyone was facing life-threatening crises at any moment... This is not an alliance."
Gwen looked at Arthur. Her face under the mask was full of surprise. She discreetly pulled on Arthur's clothes.
Tony was stunned. He already felt some guilt over Falcon's death, and after hearing Arthur's words, guilt and remorse surged over him like a breaking dam... He fell into deep self-reproach.
However, he quickly controlled his emotions.
"What you said makes a lot of sense." Tony looked at Arthur and said, "Actually, compared to powerful super-powered individuals like you, I am just an ordinary person, or rather, my superpower is technology... Since yesterday, I've realized I need to make good use of this superpower. You are excellent and very powerful. I believe that once you wear what I tailor-make for you..."
"I don't need a disguise because I don't fear anyone, and I don't need defense because I am strong enough." Arthursuddenly interrupted him. "Mr. Stark, why do you think I am a Superhero? Because I helped you arrest this Asgardiantoday? Sorry, I just did it in passing. If it weren't for Gwen, I should be sitting in some restaurant enjoying dinner right now..."
"Being a Superhero isn't about bearing obligations; it's about believing in justice," Tony said.
Arthur smiled. "Sorry, I have no feeling for the word 'justice.' I will only do what I want to do, regardless of justice or evil. Also, I don't think the Anti-Demon Alliancerepresents justice..."
"Stop!" Gwen interrupted their conversation in time. She grabbed Arthur's hand. "Topic closed. Mr. Stark, let's talk about the Captain instead."
Arthur smiled. He pulled his hand out and wrapped his arm around Gwen. If anyone else dared to interrupt him like that, he wouldn't be so easygoing...
"The story about the Captain is a long one, but he's doing okay for now. This afternoon, he was just transferred back to the Anti-Demon Alliance Base from S.H.I.E.L.D.'s secret prison, but he can't appear in public for the time being." Tony said with some envy, "This way, he has a legitimate reason to not deal with things outside, like hunting demons, capturing Asgardians, and so on..."
"Then what is the punishment for the Captain?" Gwenasked naively.
"There is no punishment," Arthur said. "Obviously, in the eyes of the government, one Superhero is far more important than seventeen ordinary people, especially ordinary people who are already dead."
This statement had quite an impact on the naive Gwen. She looked at Tony, and Tony nodded helplessly, confirming Arthur's statement.
"This is the justice you hold on to... Miss Spider." Arthursaid softly.
Tony glanced sideways slightly. Fine, now regardless of whether Arthur is a demon or not, he is annoying enough...
The aircraft began to decelerate and soon arrived at the Anti-Demon Alliance Base.
Tony held Loki, while Arthur and Gwen stood side by side behind him, waiting for the rear hatch to open.
"Do you need my help, Mr. Stark?"
"No, I'm not old enough to need someone's help yet."
"I'm actually quite excited..." Gwen was very expectant.
The aircraft's rear hatch opened. Several people were already waiting at the edge of the tarmac; they knew that two special guests were arriving tonight.
"As a brother, do you want to teach your naughty younger brother a lesson first? He was just giving a conquest speech to a group of people." As he said this, Tony tossed the Loki in his hand to Thor.
Thor dodged to the side with disgust, letting Loki slam directly onto the ground. Under the impact, Loki slowly regained consciousness.
"Not blood-related," Thor said calmly, crossing his arms.
"Welcome to the Anti-Demon Alliance," Captain Americasaid. His face looked a bit haggard, which was rare for a Superhero.
"Just visiting... Captain," Gwen reminded him.
"Still welcome. Would you like a formal tour? From the accommodation area to the training grounds, and the living area—Tony just donated and expanded the living area, you should like it."
"It was as boring as a concentration camp here before!" Tony said with dissatisfaction.
While speaking, Tony kept an eye on Arthur. At this moment, Arthur was looking at Hill, who was beside Captain America. Tony's eyes lit up...
Chapter 132
Inside the dim room, there was a circular cage, brightly lit within, fully visible through the glass walls.
Still in shackles, Loki sat on the only chair in the cage; his hair was slightly disheveled, and the blood at the corner of his mouth hadn't been wiped away. Although he looked somewhat disheveled, he still maintained his composure, the smile on his face never fading, as if being trapped in prison was all part of his plan.
Captain America stared at Loki through the glass, and after a long while, Loki spoke first: "I see sorrow and endless regret on your face..."
"I only see blood on your face," Captain America said indifferently.
Loki's expression tightened, but it quickly relaxed again.
"I heard you suffered a crushing defeat yesterday..."
"Let me reiterate: if you attempt to escape, or even touch the glass, the entire prison will activate!" Captain Americacoldly interrupted Loki. "Even if your body density and physical fitness are several times stronger than an ordinary person's, the high-voltage electricity released instantly will be enough to knock you unconscious."
After delivering the warning, Captain America prepared to turn and leave, but Loki rose from the chair. He called out to Captain America's retreating back: "Your comrades are dead, and you even killed those you were supposed to protect! How does it feel now? The righteous Captain America."
Captain America stopped in his tracks, stunned. Lokicontinued: "I came to bring true peace and freedom to humanity, but you imprisoned me... Why? Because peaceful times don't need a Superhero?"
"Counting the wealthy merchant who died tonight at the banquet, more than a hundred people have died at your hands in the past few days," Captain America said, turning back to look at Loki. "Is this the peace you bring?"
"Only war can bring about peace," Loki said solemnly. "For this great and sacred mission, the deaths of a few humans are insignificant."
"You claim to bring peace, yet you kill for amusement," Captain America said, shaking his head. "You only want to conquer Earth and enslave humanity."
"How noble you make yourself sound," Loki maintained that faint smile. "In that Base, I saw many weapons created based on the Tesseract. Possessing the Tesseract means controlling infinite energy. What do you intend to do with those?"
Loki smiled, but Captain America remained silent, for he knew nothing of the things Loki spoke of.
"Regardless of our original intentions, the results seem good for now. Only by obtaining greater power can humanity resist invaders like you," Captain America said before turning to leave.
...
"This is the combat room, where members usually come for combat training, with Captain and Natasha serving as instructors."
Hill pushed open a large door and introduced it. The space inside was vast, with a height nearly equal to three or four stories. In the center was a ring, surrounded by tiered seating, looking much like a medium-sized boxing gym.
"Captain possesses superb martial arts and combat skills, specializing in boxing infused with street fighting techniques and various forms of military combat. Natashais also an expert martial artist, proficient in Karate, Judo, Ninjutsu, Aikido, Savate, and more." As the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., Hill was well-versed in the abilities of every Superhero.
"Commander Hill, speaking of Agent Natasha, where is she now? Why don't I see her?" Gwen asked curiously. "Did she go out on a mission?"
"Natasha has been controlled by a demon." Hill considered for a moment before deciding to tell Gwen the truth. After all, Gwen might encounter Natasha in the future, and if an unsuspecting Gwen still treated Natasha as a teammate, unexpected trouble could arise.
"Controlled by a demon?" Gwen was very surprised. "Like what happened to Captain?"
Hill nodded, then shook her head. Her expression was somewhat gloomy: "Perhaps Natasha's situation is worse; the demon seems to intend to control her long-term..."
"That is truly terrifying..." Gwen suddenly said with enthusiasm: "Don't worry, Commander Hill. Next time we encounter Agent Natasha, we will definitely be able to save her!"
"I hope so," Hill said, clearly unable to maintain the same optimistic mindset as Gwen.
Following behind the two, Arthur curled his lip. The only possibility for Natasha to return to the Anti-Demon Alliance was if he got bored...
Arthur followed the two as they toured the entire Anti-Demon Alliance Base, appearing somewhat indifferent. Clearly, he didn't take this Anti-Demon Alliance seriously at all, so naturally, he wouldn't have any thoughts of getting rid of them.
His attitude was clear: do what he wanted to do, whether it was just or evil... Of course, with Arthur's current strength, he could easily reach the point where he himself was justice.
Furthermore, Arthur hoped that the Anti-Demon Alliancewould grow rapidly, or even cause him some trouble; otherwise, Earth would slowly become boring.
"This is Mr. Stark's laboratory. He should be studying Loki's scepter right now." Hill had a good memory. "Want to go in and take a look? You have to knock before entering!"
"Come in!" Tony took a look at the people walking in from the doorway. "Miss Spider and Arthur? Have you changed your minds after touring the Base? Joining our Anti-Demon Alliance might just be the right choice!"
"Sorry, Mr. Stark, no," Arthur said, looking at the Mind Stone on the table to the side.
"I think it might be better to finish my university studies first," Gwen also replied.
"What major do you like? Biochemistry? Energy and Power Engineering?" Tony said without turning his head. "Our alliance doesn't just have Superheroes; we also have super nerds. I don't need to mention myself, but take Dr. Banner, for instance; he holds seven doctorates: nuclear physics, radiological physics, biochemistry, engineering, robotics, computer science, and mathematics."
"Mr. Stark, Dr. Banner doesn't seem to have confirmed he's joining the Anti-Demon Alliance yet," Hill interjected from the side.
"It's only a matter of time!" Tony glanced at Gwen and continued his work. "I've seen your internship records at the Osborn Group. You are very talented; university isn't even enough to display your talent. The Anti-Demon Alliancewould be a great stage..."
"Mr. Stark, why don't you introduce this scepter instead," Arthur interrupted, expressionless.
"Loki's scepter. My research so far has yielded nothing. You should ask Loki himself to introduce it... if he doesn't mind having been punched unconscious by you," Tony said.
Arthur shook his head and snapped his fingers. The Mind Stone flew up from the rack on the table and circled around. The gem at the front flickered with yellow light, but it quickly vanished.
"It's like a king's scepter; very imposing," Gwen remarked.
Tony put down his work and turned around, looking surprised.
"You always manage to bring surprises and amazement, Arthur. How did you do that?" Tony looked at Arthur and said. "The material of this scepter is very special; it's an element not found on Earth, and the energy cannot be scanned... I've tried many ways to awaken its energy, but you made it react with just a wave of your hand."
"Only those who hold the power are worthy of holding the scepter," Arthur thought for a moment and said.
Gwen covered her face with both hands, while Tony was deep in thought.
Chapter 133: The Attack
Footsteps echoed in the long corridor, mixed with Tony's cold jokes reverberating through the hall. Arthur, who had deliberately fallen to the back of the group, suddenly stopped and looked in one direction.
Sensing something amiss, Arthur thought for a moment before summoning the Ninja Clan from the Shadowkhan to investigate. Night was the home turf of the Ghost Shadow Soldiers, and the Ninja Clan, with their swift and rapid movements, were undoubtedly the best scouts.
Soon, Arthur smiled. It turned out that Hawkeye, under Loki's control, was leading a group of Terrorists preparing to assault the Anti-Demon Alliance Base. The convoy was hiding in the darkness, approaching rapidly, while the Superheroes seemed not to place much importance on the Base's defensive layout.
Because under normal circumstances, no one would attack an alliance composed entirely of Superheroes...
"Arthur?" Gwen stood not far away. As Arthur walked over, she greeted him and said apologetically, "Do you want to go back? Let's go then. Sorry for neglecting your feelings tonight."
Gwen had been in a state of excitement all night. Now that she had calmed down, she realized that Arthur was not interested in these Superheroes, and that he was only staying here to keep her company.
"No, the Anti-Demon Alliance Base is not boring tonight..." Arthur said meaningfully. Before Gwen could overthink it, he pushed her forward.
At the end of the corridor, Hill was already holding the elevator, waiting for the two of them.
Late at night, the Anti-Demon Alliance held a meeting. Captain America and Tony had invited Arthur and Gwen, who were visiting the Base, to attend the meeting as observers.
This late-night meeting did not involve secret content, and both Captain America and Tony treated the two as quasi-members of the Anti-Demon Alliance, extending the invitation as a matter of course, as a way to let them better understand the alliance's work.
Gwen and Arthur only viewed the meeting as a part of their tour, because Tony's pitch was: "Want to go up and take a look? There's a party going on in the multi-functional intelligent conference room. You might be able to see Dr. Banner, who was very popular on the internet a few years ago. He is currently recuperating in the infirmary. It's a pity you didn't see him when he turned into a big green guy..."
...
"Is this their party?"
"In a sense, it seems there's no problem..." Gwen looked at Arthur with some guilt.
"Thor, tell us about the information you obtained from Asgard." Captain America began this informal talk.
"I know Loki's purpose for coming to Earth. He has an army called the Chitauri. They are not from Asgard or the Nine Realms. Even Heimdall doesn't know where this army popped out from..." Tony said with a grim expression: "Lokiintends to lead them to conquer humanity and rule Earth. In return, he will give the Tesseract to the Chitauri."
"An alien army?" Gwen, sitting at the edge of the conference room, said in surprise.
"There is an Asgardian sitting right in front of you. If there are aliens, there will be alien civilizations. What's so surprising about a civilization birthing an army?" Arthurwhispered to Gwen.
"Then what should we do? Will Earth be in danger?" Gwenwas very worried.
"Of course, choose nuclear peace!" Arthur put his arm around Gwen's shoulder and said.
"What?"
...
The others didn't pay attention to the whispering between Arthur and Gwen; they were outsiders to begin with.
"An alien army is coming to invade Earth?" Captain America was somewhat surprised. Such a thing was too shocking for someone born in the last century.
"So they want to use the Tesseract to build a portal..." Tonymuttered to himself. He looked at Thor again: "Do you have any understanding of that alien army now? Combat power, equipment configuration, combat style, and troop numbers?"
"Nothing at all." Thor shrugged and said.
Arthur said coldly: "It seems their situation is very bad..."
"Once the Anti-Demon Alliance fails to take out this alien army, all of humanity will suffer." Gwen said silently. She had always been very responsible.
"There is only one way." Suddenly Thor stood up abruptly, "I will take Loki back to Asgard right now, so all his plots will collapse."
"If things were really that simple, it would be good." Tonyshook his head, "Now, also involved in this matter are Dr. Selvig, who is controlled by Loki, Agent Barton, and... the Demon!"
When Tony said that last name, the atmosphere at the conference table froze. That was the haze the Demon had cast over the Anti-Demon Alliance.
"Tonight they took a large amount of iridium. With AgentBarton's ability, the remaining accessory materials must have already been collected. Even if Loki is taken back to Asgard by you, they can still open the Space Portal to summon the Chitauri Army..." Tony analyzed carefully, "Of course, the most critical point lies with the Demon, because the Tesseract is in his possession."
"No!" Captain America suddenly interjected, "The Tesseract is not with the Demon, but with that girl in red."
"The girl who was with the Demon yesterday?" Tonyconfirmed.
"Yes." Thor also nodded and said, "Throughout the entire battle yesterday, that girl was guarding the Tesseract."
"Excuse me!" Suddenly Gwen, who was on the side, said.
"Spider-Woman, do you have any questions?" Captain America asked.
"The Demon and a girl?" Gwen was somewhat incredulous, "The Demon brings a girl with him? Is she also controlled by him?"
Gwen found it hard to connect the image of the supreme, violent figure in her impression with the image of a girl; the dissonance was too strong.
"It doesn't look like it." Captain America shook his head, "That girl also possesses extremely powerful strength. Her ability is similar to Arthur's, able to act on objects from a distance."
"I am an only child." Arthur said first, meeting Gwen's curious gaze.
"Right, that girl looks like she is from Eastern Europe at first glance!" Tony also interjected.
"Although we know Loki's general plot, we still have nowhere to start." Captain America analyzed, "We don't know the hiding place of Dr. Selvig and Agent Barton, and we don't know how to take back the Tesseract..."
"The only breakthrough is Loki!" Tony slammed his fist on the conference table. He looked at everyone and said: "I will make him talk!"
As he said this, Thor walked towards the door. No one stopped him. Although his method was not correct and there was a high probability it would be futile, it was only natural for an older brother to discipline his younger brother...
Just as Thor reached the door, a huge explosion suddenly came, and the entire building shook violently.
The red alarm lights in the conference room flashed, and a cold female voice echoed throughout the building: "Enemy invasion!"
Thor's expression changed drastically, "Loki!"
Thor ran towards the window on the side of the conference room. In his urgency, he didn't even have time to take the elevator!
That window happened to be behind Arthur and Gwen. Thor used both hands to support the conference table and jumped, performing a perfect front flip over the two of them. He smashed through the bulletproof glass of the window and began to fall.
Thor's speed was extremely fast. Under the warning of her Spider-Sense, Gwen quickly dodged, but Arthur sat still. At this moment, Arthur already had black lines on his forehead!
Thor jumped from the building over twenty stories high. Falling in the air, he reached out his hand behind him and summoned Mjolnir!
In the conference room, at Thor's original position, Mjolnirflew rapidly towards the window!
Captain America, seeing Mjolnir about to hit Arthur, was just about to make a move, when he saw Arthur, with a grim expression, wave his hand nonchalantly. The high-speed flying Mjolnir suddenly made a sharp turn to the right, smashed a big hole in the wall, and disappeared...
Three seconds later, a loud bang of a heavy object hitting the ground came from outside the window...
Thor slowly climbed up. Only then did Mjolnir arrive belatedly. Thor, completely unaware of what had happened, cursed a few times. He had no time to think, immediately grabbed the hammer, climbed up, and ran towards the place where Loki was detained.
"Stay in a safe place!" Captain America said to Gwen and Arthur. In his heart, he still regarded the two as apprentice Superheroes.
Because of the pressure given by the Demon, Captain America now never left his shield. He picked up the shield and just turned around when he collided with the rushing Tony.
"I'm going to put on the armor," Tony said immediately, "Captain, you go to my office. Loki's scepter is there!"
In an instant, only Gwen and Arthur were left in the conference room. Gwen's just-extinguished excitement was ignited again.
The Anti-Demon Alliance Base was under attack? So, could she fight side by side with Superheroes like Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor?
Gwen always had adventurous genes. Perhaps because she had never encountered major suffering or failure, she had no fear of those powerful enemies and high-risk events, even treating them as a game.
"Honey, you wait here for me!"
Saying this, Gwen jumped out of the window backhanded... but she did not feel the thrill of free fall. Gwen's figure froze in mid-air, as if space had been frozen.
Arthur waved his hand, and Gwen's body began to move, settling back down beside him.
"This is their war." Arthur said calmly.
Gwen also woke up. Those who dared to attack the Anti-Demon Alliance must also possess the same strength, not like the petty criminals she met on the street that she could easily solve.
Although she was not afraid of the enemies who invaded the building tonight, Gwen also had to care about Arthur's attitude. Obviously, Arthur did not want to interfere in the affairs of the Anti-Demon Alliance...
Thor took his hammer and came to the door of the room where Loki was detained. Seeing the blown-open security gate, he felt something was wrong. When he entered the room, sure enough, the circular cage was empty.
"Loki has escaped!" Thor said on the communication channel, and he turned and walked out.
Captain America's voice also sounded: "The scepter is also gone."
"They must not have left yet!"
"I know!" Tony arrived at the place where the mechas were stored. He pressed the button on his phone, and instantly the door lock opened, revealing the gold and red Mark 7.
"Jarvis, scan the entire building!"
Chapter 134: Hulk vs. Thor
The hospital room was quiet, with only the beeping of medical equipment running; on the only hospital bed lay Dr. Banner, who had already fallen asleep.
Suddenly, the curtain on one side swayed; Loki, holding the Mind Stone, parted the curtain and came to the front of the hospital bed, extending the scepter in his hand.
Dr. Banner suddenly opened his eyes, but by this time, the Mind Stone was already pressed against his chest.
By the faint, warm light emitted by the bedside lamp, Dr. Banner clearly saw the figure before the bed: a green robe, long black hair, a sinister smile, and the Mind Stone he held.
"Loki?" Dr. Banner's tone was calm. "Are you Loki?"
Dr. Banner had never met Loki, but his attire was distinct and characteristic, and that sinister face fit the image of the God of Mischief perfectly.
"Dr. Banner?" Loki said with a smile. "The most powerful Superhero."
"I am not a hero." Dr. Banner looked at the scepter pressed against his chest and said, "Can this thing kill me? If it can, please do it quickly; I would be very grateful to you."
The Mind Stone flickered with a pale yellow shimmer. Lokisaid slowly, "I never thought about killing you..."
Dr. Banner was puzzled for a moment; suddenly, he remembered Hawkeye, whom Captain America mentioned was controlled by Loki. Just as he wanted to resist, the Mind Stone had already shot energy into his body.
"You don't need calm... on the contrary, you need more anger." After saying this, Loki turned and walked away quickly.
"No!" Dr. Banner tried to forcibly control himself, but his face had already turned green, and the veins on his neck were bulging.
The single hospital bed could not withstand his struggle and collapsed, and he casually smashed the bedside cabinet flat...
Inside that conference room, Gwen was bored, using spider silk to make a swing on the ceiling, swaying back and forth.
Suddenly, Arthur looked calmly at the wall on the side and said, "Perhaps we should go."
"Now?" Gwen hung upside down in front of Arthur. "Isn't it bad to leave without saying goodbye to the host? They won't mistakenly think we were kidnapped, will they?"
"That possibility cannot be ruled out, so you can go shake in front of the surveillance camera to bid them farewell." Arthur nodded and said.
"!!!"
Just as Gwen wanted to speak, her Spider-Sense sent a warning.
Gwen, who was hanging in the air, began to sway, which indicated that the entire building was shaking. Suddenly, a loud noise came, and Gwen turned her head to look at a wall...
"Boom!" The sturdy wall was instantly breached, and amidst the wall fragments, a massive green figure rushed into the conference room, causing destruction.
Gwen flipped and landed steadily, somewhat incredulously: "Is this Dr. Banner?"
"Otherwise, is there any other possibility?" Arthur looked at Gwen and said, "It seems tonight is not regrettable; we have seen what Dr. Banner looks like when he turns into the big green guy Mr. Stark mentioned!"
"This is not a good thing." Gwen shook her head and said.
Gwen watched Hulk, who was causing destruction, and she shot out spider silk to grab Hulk, pulling hard. "Stop it quickly, Dr. Banner!"
Hulk stumbled from the pull; he grabbed the spider silk with his backhand and pulled it casually, sending Gwenflying out with a cry of surprise! This was the first time she had felt such terrifying power...
Gwen's figure, which had been flying out, instantly stopped in mid-air, and she said with lingering fear, "Thank you, my dear!"
Gwen landed slowly, and only then did Hulk notice the two people at the edge of the room. He threw a table over two meters long at them!
Gwen just wanted to weave a spider web to block the table, but with her super-fast reaction time, she already felt the object flying towards her slowing down, so she obediently jumped to Arthur's side.
The long table slowed down rapidly, still rotating when it hovered in front of Arthur. After Hulk saw this scene, he rushed over. Arthur threw the long table back, smashing it into Hulk's face, where it instantly shattered into pieces, but Hulk was completely unaffected and did not even slow down.
Gwen rushed out, accelerating by pulling on the spider silk she had shot out, preparing to take Hulk's attack head-on, but Arthur immediately pulled her back using the Rooster Talisman. The current Gwen had not yet experienced high-intensity combat and could not recognize her own strength.
Arthur reached out and pressed into the air. Hulk's figure began to slow down at a speed visible to the naked eye, and finally, he was stopped in place. Caught off guard, Hulk fell face-first onto the ground.
Hulk became even more furious; he kicked the ground hard with both feet, but after stomping through the floor, he still could not move forward an inch. In front of him, it was as if an invisible wall was blocking his advance, and he could only continue to roar.
"Well done!" Gwen said from the side. "But can you put me down first?"
Arthur turned his head to look at her, and Gwen landed on the conference table in a Superhero landing pose.
"You can actually subdue the angry Dr. Banner!" Gwenexclaimed.
"No, I cannot subdue him."
As Arthur said this, he canceled the restriction on Hulk. Hulk rushed towards the two, Gwen dodged flexibly, and Arthur just tilted his body slightly, causing Hulk to pounce into empty air and brush past Arthur.
After Hulk smashed through the wall, he fell down. Gwencame to the huge hole in the wall and looked down...
On the ground, Thor heard the whistling sound of wind from above, mixed with Hulk's roars, and he quickly dodged to the side.
The massive Hulk fell from the high floor, like a meteorite crashing, smashing a deep pit into the ground. A loud noise rang out, and dust filled the sky.
Thor waved his hand to fan away the dust. "I saw Dr. Banner... it should be Hulk."
Suddenly, a green figure rushed out from the front; Hulkthrew a punch that smashed into Thor's face, and Thorinstantly flew out and disappeared into the night.
Hulk looked up at the high floor where he had fallen from; at this moment, Gwen was standing there watching.
Hulk bent his legs slightly, aimed in the direction, and leaped, his body rising rapidly as he rushed towards the high building.
Suddenly, Hulk, who was flying in the air, received a violent Impact; Tony, wearing his armor, rammed into Hulk's waist with full force, interrupting his jump.
Hulk began to fall to the side under the Impact, but he also reacted, instantly grabbing Tony's leg and smashing him forcefully towards the building.
Hulk crashed into a parking lot at the Base, smashing a car flat, and the explosion sent flames rising over a dozen meters high.
Tony entered the building after smashing through the wall; now he was lying in the ruins, feeling his head still a bit dizzy.
"Who can stop the green Dr. Banner?" Tony said.
"I can!" The voice of Thor sounded in the communication channel, the tone confident and resolute.
In the parking lot, Hulk had just walked out of the explosion when Thor, flying from a distance, swung his hammer and knocked him flying.
Thor landed after a few rolls, got up, and walked while carrying his hammer.
"It seems Dr. Banner is not as terri..."
Thor's voice in the communication channel stopped abruptly. After a loud noise, a huge roar came again, shaking several people into quickly taking off or turning off their headsets.
"Thor should be fine, right?" Hill asked Captain Americawhile pressing a magazine into her pistol. She turned her head to look out the window; Loki and Hawkeye were leading several subordinates to escape the Anti-Demon Alliance Base.
"I don't know, but Tony is also still over there." Saying this, Captain America began to accelerate; he smashed through the glass and threw his shield at the crowd on the ground while in the air.
The Vibranium shield reflected light under the emergency lights; it flashed through the night, struck three Terroristsin succession, and then rebounded in the opposite direction.
After landing, Captain America ran to the side; he dove to catch the rebounding shield and then held the shield at his side to avoid the arrows shot by Hawkeye.
The arrow shot onto the shield, struck a spark, and then deflected, pinning itself into the wall. Captain America felt something wrong looking at the arrow flashing with a red dot, and he quickly took the shield.
Sure enough, the next moment, Hawkeye's arrow exploded. Captain America was blown away by the explosion's Impact, exposed to the muzzles of several Terrorists!
Several people quickly turned their gun barrels to aim and shoot at Captain America, but fortunately, Captain Americarolled to the bottom of a truck on the side in time, and the bullets left deep marks on the concrete ground beside him.
Suddenly, the sound of a pistol firing continuously rang out; several armed Terrorists were hit and fell to the ground one after another. After firing a magazine, Hill immediately retreated behind a wall.
Suddenly, an energy projectile blasted into the spot where she had just been standing. The energy overflowing from the explosion knocked her back, and the shattered wall scraped against her body, instantly carving out bloody wounds.
Downstairs, Loki put down the scepter and said to Hawkeye beside him, "Stop him."
Hawkeye nodded; he drew an arrow from his back, nocked it on his bow, and slowly approached the place where Captain America had disappeared, while Loki turned and left calmly.
On the other side, Hulk pinned Thor to the ground, punching his face again and again. Thor's head had been smashed into the concrete ground, with blood flowing from his nostrils and the corners of his mouth. The furious Hulkpunched faster and heavier with each blow... Suddenly, the dark sky was filled with dark clouds, and thunder rumbled.
Hulk was still swinging his fists, but Thor, lying beneath him, had two thick bolts of lightning burst from his eyes. The powerful lightning struck Hulk's chest, and the immense energy sent him flying!
At the high floor of the building, Gwen, who was sitting at the hole in the wall blowing in the wind and watching the battle, was slightly stunned. The lightning shot from the ground instantly illuminated the entire World, and she watched, dumbfounded, as Hulk's massive green figure flew up and then accelerated towards the ground...
Thor's body flew up, and he reached out to recall Mjolnir.
Thor looked at Hulk, who was falling downwards, and he carried his hammer and began to accelerate in flight. Thorswung his hammer violently, and the lightning across the sky flickered again!
"Clang!"
A huge crashing sound rang out, and the glass of nearby floors was shattered. Hulk was knocked flying by the hammer, smashed through a corner of a building floor, and finally crashed onto the empty helipad!
Tony, wearing his armor, landed on the helipad first, followed closely by Thor, whose eyes were flowing with lightning.
Hulk slowly climbed up and shook his head.
"Calm down, big guy, Loki is trying to manipulate you!" Tony tried to pacify Hulk. "But you shouldn't be manipulated by him; you are stronger than him, smarter than him; you are Bruce Banner!"
Hulk looked back at Tony, his eyes filled with ferocity.
"Uh... okay, I shouldn't have mentioned that name." Tonysaid with some regret.
Hulk rushed up again, and Tony quickly started his propulsion system and flew backward; he was well aware of the destructive power of the Hulk in front of him.
Thor descended from the sky and inserted himself between the two. Hulk saw Thor's eyes turn a bit redder; he accelerated, ran, jumped, and threw a punch. Thor was also not afraid at all and continued to swing his hammer to meet him.
On the huge helipad, lightning flickered instantly, and loud noises rang out one after another.
Hulk lifted a fighter jet. Even as an Asgardian, Thor knew that the fighter jet was of great value, so he spun Mjolnir.
"Dr. Banner, put it down! Don't force me to get angry and beat you up."
Hulk responded to Thor with a roar; he jumped up and lifted the fighter jet to smash it at Thor.
Thor threw Mjolnir, and Mjolnir instantly pierced through the incoming fighter jet and struck Hulk in the face.
Thor looked at the huge firelight from the fighter jet explosion and felt a bit guilty. He said angrily, "Dr. Banner, look at the good deed you've done!"
"There is no Banner, only Hulk!" Hulk roared. He lifted the fighter jet wreckage beside him and threw it at Thor. After Thor dodged it, he saw Mjolnir on the ground nearby.
Hulk grabbed the hammer handle, preparing to throw the hammer at Thor, but he could not lift Mjolnir, and he stumbled, almost falling to the ground.
The furious Hulk gripped the hammer handle with both hands. He exerted force suddenly, his feet crushing the helipad and sinking in, but Mjolnir still remained motionless.
"Hahaha!" Thor, not far away, burst into laughter. "You are indeed Hulk, foolish Hulk; Dr. Banner is not this stupid! Haha... Whoa!"
A piece of concrete flew at high speed and shattered on Thor's head. Just as he recovered, Hulk had already rushed to his front. Thor was pinned tightly by Hulk to the floor, scraping a deep trench. When Hulk wanted to launch a continuous fierce attack like last time, an arc pulse cannon shot from the side and blasted him away.
"Need a hand?" Tony said, looking at Thor, whose head had been shoved into the ground.
Thor extended his thick arm, but was ignored by Tony, because Tony was just being polite...
Thor could only climb up himself; he looked at the fallen Hulk with great anger.
"You actually ambushed me?"
He met Hulk's attack again, crossing his arms to resist Hulk's punch. Thor leaped up violently and punched Hulkin the chin; he flipped over and rode on Hulk's back, strangling Hulk's neck with both hands...
Tony shook his head slightly as he watched the two continuously cause destruction during their fierce battle; fortunately, this amount of money was nothing to him.
A sound of wind came from behind; Spider-Woman Gwendecelerated while hanging on a spider silk and landed steadily.
"Hello, Spider-Woman and Arthur." Tony looked at Arthur, who was suspended in the air beside him. "Are you leaving? Sorry, under these circumstances, we can't spare the time to see you off."
"No need, you go ahead and get busy..." Gwen said. "We had a great time tonight; it was an unforgettable visiting experience."
"Of course, I think so too; such a battle is not something you see every day." Tony gestured to Thor and Hulk, who were still fighting nearby, and said, "Although there were some twists and turns in the second half, I believe this was a very good visit, and both of you have gained a deep understanding of the Anti-Demon Alliance."
"Then Mr. Stark, you go ahead and get busy; I wish you a wonderful night."
Gwen said this and flew into Arthur's arms. Tony watched their retreating figures, and a fragment shot from behind, hitting his head and knocking it sideways...
"Such a night is not wonderful at all..."
PS: Because "Thor" and "Tony" are similar in Chinese, the Thunder God uses the alternative name "Thor".
Chapter 135: Legacy
Tony withdrew his gaze and flew up, slightly unsteady. When the Hulk grabbed his right leg just now, it crushed the Arc Pulse Propulsion Device on it, making balanced flight difficult with only three remaining thrusters.
Tony turned to look at the Hulk still fighting Thor. He muttered to himself, "Maybe I need to find a way to bring the out-of-control Dr. Banner back to consciousness... or perhaps put a restraint on the Hulk."
Tony activated the Flight Stabilization System. He circled the building to the battlefield behind it, but as soon as he landed, he saw Captain America walking over, carrying the unconscious Hawkeye.
Hawkeye was bruised and swollen, and his High-Tech Mechanical Bow was broken by Captain America's shield.
In a one-on-one fight, Hawkeye was still no match for Captain America.
"Looks like Legolas needs a new bow," Tony said, looking at Hawkeye, "if he manages to wake up."
"Of course he will," Captain America said quietly.
At this moment, the massive noise behind the building slowly subsided, signaling that the battle between Thunder God Thor and the Hulk had ended, with Thorclaiming victory.
If the Hulk had defeated Thor, the commotion would only have grown louder; the Hulk might have torn down all of New York.
"Finally, it's over." Tony took off his Iron Helmet and took a deep breath. "I thought I'd be dealing with that big green guy all night."
"I didn't expect Thor could actually defeat the Hulk..." Captain America said, surprised. He had read newspapers and S.H.I.E.L.D.'s secret files and had a clear understanding of the Hulk's immense strength.
"No, I didn't defeat him. He woke up on his own, perhaps intimidated by my strength..." Thor flew over and landed, carrying Dr. Banner, who had returned to human form, on his shoulder.
"Loki escaped?" Thor set Banner down. He shook his head and said, "Everything we've done so far has been a waste of effort, yielding no results."
Captain America offered comfort, "At least we rescued Agent Barton..."
"But we lost Sam and Natasha." Tony slapped his chest, the Iron Armor opened completely, and he stepped out.
Tony walked up to Banner to check his condition. Captain America's expression was also grim, but he quickly regained his composure.
"Because someone sacrificed themselves for this, we must win this battle even more," Captain America said, putting his shield on his back. "We already know Loki's scheme; all we have to do next is stop him from opening the Space Portal..."
"Or eliminate those alien visitors," Tony said flatly. "It's just an army."
"I completely agree," Thor said, tossing his hammer. "I can handle them by myself!"
Tony was talking when Captain America suddenly noticed several black veins on Tony's neck, looking like poison spreading through his blood vessels... "Stark?" Captain America pointed at his neck. "What is that? Are you sick?"
Tony instinctively reached up to touch his neck. He casually brushed it off: "It's nothing, just a skin condition."
"A skin condition?" Captain America was clearly suspicious.
"Captain, I'm just a normal person, neither an Asgardiannor a super-human injected with some kind of serum." Tonyglanced at the fallen Hawkeye and Banner and said, "I hope everyone who is still here is conscious tomorrow morning."
With that, Tony walked into the building. Captain Americacalled out to his retreating back, "They certainly will be."
Tony entered the elevator and pressed the floor button. Fortunately, his office had only suffered the theft of the Mind Stone and was otherwise undamaged by the major battle.
The Mark 7 Armor, damaged once again in battle, was resting on the repair platform. Tony shook his head, fixing the armor while pondering how to restrain the Hulk.
The night deepened, and a figure could be seen busy working through the glass.
Tony's experiences over the past few months had been eventful: negotiating with the Demon, going through the "Demon Project" and yesterday's major battle, and now being caught up in Loki's scheme.
Tony currently felt very insecure. If he didn't repair the Iron Armor, he couldn't even sleep, because if the Demon or Loki attacked while the armor was damaged, he would be useless... Of course, the biggest reason for his lack of security wasn't external.
While resting, Tony wiped away sweat. He habitually picked up the green liquid next to him and drank deeply. He had now adapted to the bitter and strange taste of Chlorophyll.
Tony pulled a small silver metal box from his pocket. He pressed a button, and a sharp needle extended from the end of the box. He pressed his thumb onto the needle, and a drop of blood emerged.
"Jarvis, check the Palladium Element content."
A spinning progress bar appeared on the screen. A few seconds later, Jarvis's voice sounded.
"Blood toxicity 69%. Diffusion rate: extremely fast." Jarvispaused for a few seconds before continuing, "Based on the current situation, your body is showing symptoms such as anemia, vomiting, abdominal pain, liver damage, and urinary/kidney damage."
"Assuming frequent consumption of Chlorophyll, if you only use the Arc Reactor to sustain life, Palladium Poisoning symptoms will become life-threatening in six years. However, if you use the Arc Reactor to continuously power the Iron Armor, you will experience fainting and difficulty breathing in eleven hours, and your life will be in danger after twenty hours." Jarvis continued, "Sir, my recommendation is to stop using..."
"My recommendation is that you stop recommending!" Tony interrupted.
"Meaning I can still be Iron Man for twenty hours?" Tonygot up and walked to the workbench, silently looking at the Iron Armor, which was battered after two battles.
"You don't look well." Suddenly, a voice came from behind.
Tony spun around abruptly. All the monitors in the office lit up simultaneously, and Nick Fury's eye-patched face appeared on the largest screen.
"I heard you died, so now you're just a bunch of data. You can change your image however you want, so why are you still wearing an eye patch and pretending to be disabled?" Tony said quickly, waving the repair tool in his hand.
"I'm just accustomed to presenting the image you are familiar with," Nick Fury said calmly.
"Don't talk about familiar; you've barely shown up a few times." Tony shook his head and said, "Are you here to mock me now? Mock me for firmly rejecting you initially, only to later join your 'Super Boys' organization, and then letting things get messed up, allowing an Asgardian and a Demon to cause destruction freely?"
"No, quite the opposite. I think you've done very well, at least so far."
Tony shook his head, took a deep breath, and turned back to face the Iron Armor.
"Can you help me with some armor data debugging? Your processing power should exceed Jarvis's now," he said without turning around.
"No, no, no, I didn't come here to be your repairman..."
As Nick Fury spoke, a creaking sound began, and Tonyturned around holding a wrench.
The glass doors slid open, and a white robot slowly rolled in on its treads. It was the Intelligent Butler Robot from the Base, whose daily job was to transport meals for the Superheroes.
The robot's tray now held three syringes, and it was pulling a black suitcase behind it.
"Perhaps I can help you tighten loose screws," Tony said, slightly frowning at the robot's creaking sound as it moved.
"Lithium Dioxide. Injecting it can slow down your Palladium Poisoning symptoms," Nick Fury's voice announced.
Tony washed his hands, then picked up a syringe from the robot's tray. Under the light, the liquid inside the needle tube appeared blue.
"Is that thing for me too?" Tony asked, pointing at the black suitcase behind the robot.
"No, it is not," Nick Fury denied.
"Are you sure it's not some strange cure?" Even as he spoke, Tony rolled up his sleeve, sterilized the area, and inserted the needle into his vein. He paused for a moment before finally pushing the plunger and injecting the medicine.
The Lithium Dioxide was highly effective at suppressing the Palladium Poisoning; within seconds, Tony felt as if a heavy restraint had been lifted, and his whole body felt lighter.
He picked up his phone and saw that the black veins spreading across his neck had disappeared.
"As expected of the former Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., hoarding banned substances like this." Tony looked at Nick Fury and said, "Give me two more boxes, and I'll be fine."
"I regret to inform you, it's not an antidote; it only slows the symptoms," Nick Fury said. "The only one who can save you is yourself..."
"I clearly understand that." Tony nodded. "I've been searching for a substitute for the Palladium Element. I've tried every elemental combination, every single one! But no combination can replace the Palladium Element..."
"No, you haven't tried everything," Nick Fury said meaningfully. "That thing in your chest was created based on unfinished technology, which is why it has flaws."
"No, it is a finished product. Stark Industries has a functioning Arc Reactor, and that big one also has a lifespan." Tony shook his head. "It only became effective after I miniaturized it. Right now, the shrapnel in my body is constantly moving toward my heart; if it weren't for this, I'd already be dead."
"But your father said the Arc Reactor was just a stepping stone to greater technology..." Nick Fury's words silenced Tony. "Back then, he was close to figuring out a type of superpower. A Nuclear Reactor would seem like a Triple-A Battery in comparison... but he died before he could complete his research. I remember him saying that you possess the intelligence and resources to fulfill the mission he couldn't complete."
"Hahaha..." Tony laughed. "Your words sound false. My father never praised me, only criticized and educated me. The happiest day I remember for him was the day he sent me to Boarding School."
"Nothing should be judged only by its surface." Nick Fury's face disappeared from the screen, leaving only his lingering voice: "Inside the suitcase are things left for you by Mr. Howard Stark."
Hearing this, Tony put down what he was holding and opened the suitcase. Inside was a silver safe, marked on the front with black English text: "Property of Howard Stark."
"Didn't you say it wasn't for me?" Tony muttered to himself.
"Don't interrupt the rhythm and sequence of someone's narrative, Mr. Stark," Nick Fury's final words sounded.
Tony sat on the floor and opened the safe. The Meal-Delivery Robot creaked and rolled back out.
Inside the box were several notebooks, some photographs, and he also found a Video Storage Device, which he inserted into the computer and started playing.
"Stark Industries Exposition 1974..."
Chapter 136: Avengers
Inside a Chinese restaurant, Gwen and Arthur sat opposite each other at a table. Arthur quietly watched Gwen clumsily use chopsticks to pick up a piece of General Tso's Chicken.
In another corner of the restaurant, a group of people were making a loud scene: "Spider-Woman, she's not a cop, not a firefighter. What right does she have to meddle in other people's business?"
Gwen's hand holding the chopsticks paused. She looked at Arthur with a touch of resentment and grievance. But Arthur had no reaction, even showing a look of agreement with those words.
"An offline fan meeting." Arthur used his chopsticks to bring some food to Gwen's lips. "Aren't you going to change into your uniform to sign autographs and take photos with them?"
From the conversation, it was clear that the guests at that table had also participated in tonight's Justice March. After the march ended, they had come to this restaurant, which hadn't closed yet, for a meal.
Others also joined the chorus of condemnation, the targets of their complaints spreading from Spider-Woman to many famous Superheroes.
Among them, Iron Man received the least fire... because the Stark Foundation would always arrive at the scene immediately afterward to compensate for the damage caused by Iron Man, and often at a premium.
To the point that one guest was even saying he hoped the next time Iron Man fought a villain, he would throw his car as a weapon. That way, he could not only pay off his loan but also buy a new car in full... It wasn't until someone habitually used a catchphrase filled with profanity that Arthur frowned slightly.
"Ack..." That person gripped his own neck tightly. The chopsticks in his hand actually began to bore into his throat uncontrollably.
Instantly, his face turned bright red. He fell from his chair due to the struggle. Lying on the ground, he reached into his mouth, trying to grab the chopsticks... The discussion at that table stopped. Everyone watched this scene dumbfounded. A moment later, chaos broke out, and someone finally came to their senses and hurriedly dialed 911.
Gwen looked at the guests with an apologetic face, but when she looked at Arthur, her eyes were full of smiles. Spider-Woman also had a small streak of pettiness.
"You always like to play these kinds of pranks."
Arthur shook his head. If Gwen hadn't been present, Arthur would have shoved those chopsticks up his backside.
Arthur put down his chopsticks and wiped his mouth. "Gwen, I'm not satisfied with tonight's date."
"Yes, I know." Gwen lowered her head somewhat guiltily. "We were supposed to have a candlelight dinner at a Michelin-star restaurant tonight, but now we can only find a place that hasn't closed yet to eat this somewhat burnt General Tso's Chicken..."
"You know that's not what I'm talking about." Arthurcrossed his hands and looked at Gwen somewhat seriously. "Perhaps you should formally make a choice."
"What choice..." Gwen raised her head to meet Arthur's gaze, her eyes filled with confusion.
"Continue being your street hero, Spider-Woman, and focus on your studies, family, and romance," Arthur said slowly. "Or perhaps you think you're ready, enough to shoulder the responsibilities, obligations... and possible dangers of being a Superhero, and continue to meddle in the affairs of the Anti-Demon Alliance."
Gwen looked around and whispered, "I can handle those troubles and dangers..."
"Then what about your parents, brother, and friends?" Arthur shook his head and said calmly, "Like when your enemies, Harry and Peter, teamed up to attack me... what if something like that happens again? I am strong enough and prepared; no one can hurt me. But what about the other ordinary people connected to you? Are they ready?"
"That's why I wear the spider mask. I'll be careful enough," Gwen leaned in and whispered. "We can't choose to escape and retreat just because we see danger; instead, we should go and resolve it."
"You shouldn't have to face those dangers in the first place. S.H.I.E.L.D. can find out your true identity; why do you think those gangs and villain organizations won't? HYDRA had already infiltrated S.H.I.E.L.D. before; maybe they even have your files. HYDRA, demons, Loki... these people aren't street thugs." Arthur looked at Gwen with deep eyes. "You need to hide your identity from every single enemy, but as long as one enemy knows who you are, they can make you regret it forever..."
Gwen fell silent, and Arthur warned in a gentle voice, "Gwen, if you continue like this, I have a feeling the first person to die in front of you will be Mr. George."
Seeing the expression on Gwen's face, Arthur knew the complex emotions in her heart. He reached out and cupped her cheek.
"Of course, no matter what you choose, I will support you." Arthur smiled faintly. "Waiter, check please!"
The glass door of the Chinese restaurant was pushed open, and Gwen walked out of the shop arm-in-arm with Arthur.
"The bill." Gwen reached out and pulled a receipt from Arthur's pocket. She glanced at it and put it back. "I'll transfer it to you when we get back."
Arthur indicated it didn't matter. The two walked down the street leaning on each other, strolling for half a mile.
Suddenly, Gwen stopped in front of a toy store window. Behind the glass hung a demon mask, a popular item these days.
Gwen's golden trench coat hem fluttered like yellow leaves caught in the wind. The streetlights cast a yellow glow on her face. Her reflection in the glass window was only a blurry outline, but she still looked beautiful.
"Look, a demon!" Gwen pointed at the demon mask in the window and turned to smile at Arthur.
Arthur's smile was more brilliant than Gwen's... This was a very interesting thing, because the real demon was right in front of Gwen.
"This is why I'm hesitating, Arthur." Gwen stared at the demon mask. "If someone encounters danger in front of me, I can't remain indifferent. If a criminal or villain is committing violence and crime, I can't just watch them hurt ordinary people and watch beautiful things be destroyed..."
"You don't have the power to stop demons..." Arthursmiled faintly. "Have you made your choice?"
"Yes!" Gwen took a deep breath and nodded firmly. "I will become a true Superhero, fight crime, protect humanity, and guard all of New York. I firmly believe I can handle all potential dangers and conspiracies. I will not back down..."
Arthur nodded, not at all surprised. If his words alone could change Gwen's sense of justice, or if Gwen feared danger and difficulty, she wouldn't have become Spider-Woman.
He just didn't know who in this Universe would be "sacrificed" to the heavens for Gwen's sake, to let her grow. It certainly wouldn't be Arthur. He suspected his words might become a self-fulfilling prophecy... "You'll help me, right?" Gwen's gentle eyes held a plea. "Arthur..."
Arthur shook his head. Suddenly, he saw a demon plushie in the corner of the toy store window... "Who knows? Depends on my mood..." Arthur gave a mysterious smile... On the streets of New York, a van was driving.
A dazzling blue light filled the interior of the van. Dr. Selvigwas performing the final tests on the equipment.
"Flawless, this is simply a work of genius!" Dr. Selvigsmiled. "The only variable is whether the demon will deliver the Tesseract on time."
"He will," Loki said with certainty. "A man like the demon wouldn't miss such an interesting show..."
In truth, Loki was also reassuring himself. As he learned more about the demon's past deeds, the more he couldn't see through him. At this moment, he didn't know if the demon would keep the appointment and deliver the Tesseract, or if he would leave him to be lost in the high-altitude winds alone... Loki stroked the Mind Stone and murmured, "I will not fail a second time..."
...Sunlight shone into the luxurious seaside Villa. In a messy room, a somewhat disheveled Tony was lying on the sofa, fast asleep.
Suddenly, a sharp phone ring sounded. Tony turned over on the sofa and continued sleeping. Only when the phone rang a second time did he answer it.
"Good morning, this is Tony Stark. If you need anything, please contact Miss Pepper Potts. Her number is 212-555... Uh, sorry, I'm still a bit out of it."
"3214, Tony, I thought you'd remember my number!" Pepper said dissatisfied on the other end. "Also, it's already noon!"
"Sorry..."
"Saying sorry is useless, Tony!" Pepper went on. "I'm trying to run a company. Do you know how hard this is? I'm trying to do what you should be doing because you're running away from everything..."
"I'm very sorry..."
This phone call didn't last long before Pepper hung up. Now, Pepper was the CEO of Stark Industries, and her schedule was packed to the minute.
Tony threw his phone aside. He looked at the chaotic room, a bit dazed. The room was a mess; several floorboards had been pried up, trash and scrap were everywhere, and there was a neat crack in the front wall, as if it had been cut by a laser... It wasn't until Tony saw the electronic acceleration tracks and various experimental instruments laid out in the room that he recalled what had happened here last night.
Last night, Tony had solved the secret left to him by his father, Howard Stark. He had decomposed and reconstructed the model board of that Expo, creating a brand-new element. He used this new element to replace the Palladium Element.
After the brand-new Arc Reactor was created, Tonyhanded it over to Jarvis for testing. Tired after working all night, he had just lain down on the sofa to rest and fallen into a deep sleep.
Now, Tony bypassed the tracks and the mess on the floor. In the center of the room sat a brand-new Arc Reactor, its shape changed from circular to triangular.
That Arc Reactor was connected to instruments, flashing with light like a beating heart.
"Jarvis, what's the situation?"
"Excellent, sir!" Jarvis's voice sounded. "Tests so far have shown no problems. The reactor has accepted the updated core. The new element perfectly replaces the Palladium Element, and the energy output of the Arc Reactor has increased."
His spirits restored, Tony raised his arms and cheered. Looking at the oil and sweat on himself, he said, "Time to clean up. A brand-new Iron Man is about to debut."
Tony went to the living area upstairs to wash up and grab some food, but before he could finish, Jarvis issued an alert.
"Sir, Stark Tower is being invaded."
Tony, stuffing bread into his mouth, froze. The defense system transmitted real-time surveillance footage. On the screen, Loki smiled at the camera, then raised his hand and fired an energy blast to destroy the monitor. The screen went black.
"Is he showing off to me?"
Tony hurried downstairs. He looked at the continuously flashing Arc Reactor.
"Jarvis, how much longer until the tests are finished?"
"All tests will be completed in one hour and fifteen minutes."
"In an hour and fifteen minutes, Loki's alien army will probably have already occupied New York..." Tonymuttered to himself as he reached out and took down the Arc Reactor.
"Sir!"
"Just run the tests like this... the data will be more realistic and the results better!" Tony plugged the Arc Reactor into his chest, twisted it, and gave it a firm tap. "Assemble the Iron Armor immediately."
"There are still five hundred and thirty-one test items uncompleted. We aren't sure if the new element is 100% compatible with the Arc Reactor..."
"I don't want to hear it, Jarvis!" Tony said loudly. "Start the assembly!"
"Yes, sir."
Pieces of the brand-new Iron Armor were picked up by mechanical arms and tightened onto Tony's body—first the torso, then the limbs, and finally the head... The brand-new Arc Reactor in Tony's chest continuously released energy, and the brightness of its glow kept increasing.
"Whoa!" Tony's body trembled. "This tastes like coconut... and metal!"
"Clang!" The iron helmet closed, and light glowed in the eyes.
"It really is perfect..."
Tony activated the Iron Armor. The repulsors in his hands and legs fired together, and he instantly accelerated, crashing through the floor-to-ceiling window and flying out of the Villa. He skimmed over the sea, then continuously gained altitude, flying toward New York.
"Connect me to the Captain!"
"Stark?" Captain America's voice came through. The video feed showed him entering a jet's cockpit. Beside him sat Hawkeye, his face cold, adjusting his quiver.
"Jarvis has already reported the information to S.H.I.E.L.D.We're on our way now. Thor has already gone ahead; hopefully, he can stop Loki's plot."
"Hopefully, but I'm also prepared to fight an alien army!" Tony added, "Agent Barton, are you back to your senses? You won't be shooting arrows at our backs in today's battle, will you?"
"Don't worry, my arrows will all be stuck in Loki," Hawkeyesaid coldly.
"Good luck to you all! I'm almost there."
With that, Tony accelerated again, reaching Mach 5, the maximum flight speed of the Iron Armor Mark 7.
"Your new energy core is great. I've noticed the energy output is stronger, and your vital signs are back to normal." A voice suddenly sounded in the helmet, startling Tony.
"Nick, please stop appearing and disappearing like that. Even your former subordinates know to knock before entering a room now!"
Nick ignored him and continued, "It seems your father's prophecy came true. The Arc Reactor was just the beginning. You will create even greater technologies."
"We're facing a war now; that's the priority. You're a supercomputer with powerful processing power and support for multi-threading, but there's only one Iron Man. I have to go protect New York; I don't have time to chat with you!" Tony gave the command: "Jarvis, cut the call."
"Sorry, sir, I can't cut it..." Jarvis's voice sounded after a moment.
Nick's chuckle sounded at just the right time. He laughed for a bit before saying, "Don't worry, Earth won't lose this war. I've called in reinforcements for you..."
"Reinforcements? Who?" Tony asked. "Then please have them come out and wipe out the demon, Loki, and the Chitauri. I'll clock out right now, and then please help me book a table at the Four Seasons Hotel. I need to make it up to Pepper tonight..."
"It'll take some time for the reinforcements to arrive. For now, you'll have to hold on for a bit," Nick said calmly. "I'll be watching."
"Does it give you a sense of achievement to see the 'Super Boys' you created go to the battlefield?" Tony asked.
"Indeed. Charge, Superheroes!"
"We aren't Superheroes." Tony's gaze was firm. In this moment, he thought of the buried Falcon, the missing Natasha, and all those who had died.
"We are... the Avengers!"