Ch: 1-7
Chapter 1: The System That Arrived Eighteen Years Late, Binding Gwen!
New York, Empire State University.
September sunlight pierced through the thin mist, casting its glow upon the vintage red-brick teaching buildings.
At the school gate, a vintage bicycle came to a steady stop by the roadside.
A long, slender leg dismounted, stepping onto the ground.
Johnny Gilda casually straightened his black bangs, ruffled by the wind.
Revealing a face that could overshadow even Hollywood male stars.
"Hiss... who is that guy? Are we getting a new campus heartthrob?"
"Oh my god, his eyes seem to have magic, I'm going to faint..."
"With that height, he must be at least 1.9 meters, right? So... so handsome!"
The girls passing by instantly slowed their pace, their whispers buzzing.
Not far away, a girl with long platinum blonde hair and a wild demeanor also stopped involuntarily.
Felicia Hardy, the future Black Cat.
At this moment, her red lips were slightly parted, and her eyes were fixed on that retreating figure.
"Hey, Felicia, why aren't you moving? We're going to be late."
Beside her, Peter Parker, carrying a backpack and looking somewhat bookish, asked in confusion.
"Shh, don't talk." Felicia didn't even turn her head, her gaze almost greedy.
"Peter, did you see that boy? He's definitely the most handsome guy I've ever seen."
"Huh? Where is he?"
Peter looked in the direction she indicated, but only caught a glimpse of a tall, straight back disappearing at the end of the tree-lined path... Walking along the campus's tree-lined path, Gilda had a faint smile playing on his lips.
This feeling of being watched, no matter how long it lasted, never grew old.
"The first class is biology, and Professor Connors himself is teaching, tsk tsk."
Gilda stroked his chin, calculating in his mind.
In this Marvel Universe, clinging to powerful figures is an art.
Although Professor Connors would eventually turn into that slippery green lizard.
In the field of biology, this old man was definitely a top expert.
Moreover, he had spent the summer frantically studying and experimenting.
He had finally managed to get into Osborn's corporate lab as an intern and had received extremely high praise from Professor Connors.
This investment in connections was a sure profit.
Speaking of which, Gilda was actually a transmigrator.
And a fetal transmigrator, having survived in this perilous Marvel Universe for a full eighteen years.
In his previous life, he was a seasoned Marvel fan.
He especially loved the dating game "Oh no, I'm surrounded by Gwen, Wanda, and Polaris!"
He had thought that since he transmigrated, there should at least be a "ding" sound.
And then he'd punch Thanos and kick Odin, right?
But what happened?
No system.
No mutation.
He didn't even get bitten by a radioactive spider.
Aside from a large apartment in downtown New York and several million dollars in savings left by his parents, who both died in this life.
And this devastatingly handsome face, he had almost nothing.
"Good thing I'm smart; I was a top student at Tsinghua and Peking University in my previous life."
Gilda sighed, feeling a bit helpless.
In this world where aliens invade and the purple potato monster snaps his fingers at every turn.
Ordinary people were like ants by the roadside, liable to be crushed at any moment.
So he could only study desperately, trying to change his fate through knowledge.
To see if he could research a Super Soldier Serum.
As he was thinking, he had already reached the teaching building.
Suddenly, a striking figure entered his line of sight.
It was a girl wearing a light blue shirt and a short skirt.
Her golden hair was tied back with a black hair tie, with a few strands falling beside her fair neck.
She was holding several books, standing on the steps and looking around.
The sunlight fell on her face, as if coated with a soft-focus filter.
Gwen Stacy.
Gilda's pupils contracted slightly.
Even though he had seen her countless times in movies, the impact of seeing her in person still made his heart skip a beat.
That blend of intellect and youthfulness was simply made to drive him to 'crime'.
"Tsk, those legs... ahem, that aura, truly worthy of being the first love goddess."
Gilda secretly praised her.
Just then, his peripheral vision caught a familiar figure rushing from the other side.
Peter Parker.
This guy had clearly seen Gwen too.
The two were walking towards each other.
Just then.
A voice he had waited eighteen years for suddenly sounded in his mind.
[Ding! Detected that the host has encountered a classic high-quality Marvel female — Gwen Stacy!]
[The many children many blessings system is activating... Activation successful!]
[System Description: This system is dedicated to creating the strongest family. As long as the host has offspring with classic high-quality females of the Marvel Universe, you will receive top-tier rewards from the Dragon Ball world!]
[Rewards include but are not limited to: Bukūjutsu, Ki Blast, Solar Flare, Kaioken, Instant Transmission... You can even increase your base combat power, gain Saiyan bloodline, and transform into a Super Saiyan!]
[Target detected: Gwen Stacy. Do you wish to bind?]
Gilda paused in his steps, almost unable to resist laughing out loud on the spot.
What the heck?
Such a good thing?!
Many children many blessings? Dragon Ball system?
This wasn't just a cheat, this was a golden thigh!
One must know that the Dragon Ball world's power system was practically a dimensionality reduction attack in Marvel.
Characters like Raditz, with a mere thousand-plus power level, could casually blow up cities.
By the Frieza saga, planet-busting was common.
If he could transform into a Super Saiyan.
Thanos, the Celestials, wouldn't they all be mere minnows, one-punched into oblivion?
Gilda felt a rush of blood to his head.
Not only could he become stronger, but he could also solve his personal problems along the way.
It was simply tailor-made for a gentleman like him!
"Bind! Must bind!"
Gilda roared frantically in his mind.
To protect Earth, for universal peace, he, Gilda, was duty-bound!
From now on, Big Bear Wanda, Tsundere Polaris, Aloof White Queen, Wild Black Cat... none should be missed!
Let's all work hard to become stronger!
However, one must eat one bite at a time, and walk one step at a time.
The primary goal now was Gwen, right in front of him.
Gilda glanced at Peter Parker, who was approaching, his eyes instantly becoming sharp.
"Sorry, Peter, for the peace of the universe, I'll bear the burden of a dangerous woman like Gwen."
Gilda adjusted his collar, took long strides, and accelerated directly.
Just as Peter Parker gathered his courage, ready to say his first "Hi" to Gwen.
A tall figure precisely blocked the path between him and Gwen.
"Excuse me, Classmate."
Gilda didn't even look back, just gently nudged with his broad shoulder.
The already slender Peter lost his balance from this sudden shove.
He stumbled back a few steps, directly pushed into the stream of people entering the classroom.
"Huh? Wait..."
Peter's outstretched hand hung in mid-air, watching helplessly as he was swept into the teaching building's main entrance by the crowd.
He didn't even touch Gwen's clothes.
Done!
Gilda curled his lips into a mischievous smile, then adopted a gentlemanly and magnetic tone.
He turned to face the somewhat startled Gwen.
"Hi, Classmate, are you going to Professor Connors' biology class?"
Gwen was momentarily stunned.
She looked up, and what met her eyes was a clean, handsome, and sunny face.
Especially those eyes, as if they held some kind of attraction.
"Uh... yes."
Gwen nodded subconsciously, a faint blush appearing on her cheeks.
"How did you know?"
"I saw you holding 'Advanced Genomics,' which is Professor Connors' most recommended book."
Gilda pointed to the book in her arms, flashing a perfectly timed smile.
"Let me introduce myself, I'm Johnny Gilda, also a student of Professor Connors."
"When I interned at Osborn Labs, I heard the professor mention a genius named Gwen among the new students."
"I thought, that genius must be you, right?"
This series of moves was smooth as flowing water.
He not only showcased his identity as a top student but also praised her through Professor Connors' words.
And incidentally displayed his handsome advantage.
A perfect strike!
Sure enough, Gwen's eyes instantly lit up.
"You interned at Osborn Labs? Oh my, it's so hard to get in there!"
Gwen said in surprise, her initial sense of unfamiliarity largely dissipating.
"I'm Gwen Stacy, nice to meet you, Classmate Gilda."
"Just call me Johnny."
Gilda smoothly pulled out his phone and waved it.
"Since we're both Professor Connors' students, there will definitely be a lot of academic exchange in the future. Do you mind exchanging contact information?"
"I happen to have a few of the professor's latest research project notes; perhaps you'd be interested."
Academic exchange?
Who seriously exchanges academics?
But this reason was simply impeccable.
Gwen was not only a top student but also one with a strong thirst for knowledge.
Coupled with Gilda's highly deceptive appearance and Professor Connors' endorsement.
"Of course, that would be great!"
Gwen barely hesitated, confidently taking out her phone.
The two quickly exchanged numbers.
The moment Gwen's number was saved, the system's prompt sounded in Gilda's mind again.
[Ding! Congratulations to the host for successfully establishing initial contact with Gwen Stacy, binding successful!]
[Binding Reward: Skill — Solar Flare!]
[Skill Description: A Crane School martial arts technique that instantly emits a flash of light using Ki, blinding enemies. An essential divine skill for escaping or ambushing!]
[Ding! Detected that the host has successfully taken the first step in "many children many blessings," issuing an additional Newbie reward!]
[Congratulations to the host for unlocking the perception and application of "Ki"!]
[Host's current base combat power increased to: 10 points! (Note: A normal adult Earthling with a gun has a combat power of approximately 5)]
Boom!
A warm current instantly surged through his entire body.
Gilda felt every cell in his body cheering.
That was "Ki"!
Although it was only 10 combat power, sounding like double that of a weakling.
In reality, this was already enough strength to take bullets with his bare body and dismantle a Gundam with his bare hands!
Gilda clenched his fist, feeling the surging power within him.
He looked at Gwen, who was smiling radiantly in front of him, his gaze growing even more fervent.
This was just the beginning of their acquaintance.
If they were to have in-depth academic exchanges in the future, wouldn't he soar?
"Let's go, Gwen."
Gilda naturally stepped aside, gesturing for her to go first.
"I've saved a seat for you in the front row."
"Thank you, Johnny."
The two walked into the teaching building side by side.
Chapter 2: We Can Chat While We Eat
Soon, the two of them arrived at the classroom.
The lecture hall was large, capable of accommodating two hundred people.
As Gilda expected, due to Professor Connors' special consideration,
the best seat in the first row, right in the center, with the best audio-visual effects, was still empty.
Gilda, ever the gentleman, pulled out a chair and motioned for Gwen to sit down.
As for the red-haired girl next to them, whose backpack was originally occupying the seat?
Gilda simply gave her a smile that could melt icebergs, and slightly raised an eyebrow:
"Beautiful, could you let my friend have this seat? I'll treat you to coffee another day."
"Oh! Of... of course!"
The red-haired girl's face instantly turned as red as a tomato, and she clumsily grabbed her backpack and ran to the back row.
Before leaving, she didn't forget to slip a note with her INS account into Gilda's hand.
This series of actions was smooth and effortless, leaving Gwen beside him stunned.
"It seems you're very popular at school."
Gwen said teasingly after sitting down, her tone carrying a hint of sourness that she herself didn't notice.
"That's because they haven't seen a true genius."
Gilda casually crumpled the note into a ball and accurately flicked it into a trash can two meters away.
Then he turned to look at Gwen, his eyes clear and sincere.
"In my eyes, all those common beauties combined are not as charming as a girl who can understand 'Advanced Genomics'."
Hiss... those words were a bit unfair.
Gwen felt her heart skip a beat, and quickly lowered her head, pretending to flip through her book, but her earlobes quietly turned a shade of pink.
This guy, not only is he handsome,
but he also speaks so nicely. Who could resist that?
Just then, a light blue, translucent panel popped up in front of Gilda, visible only to him.
[Target scan complete!]
[Name: Gwen Stacy]
[Identity: Daughter of New York City Police Chief George Stacy, Empire State Universityfreshman.]
[Figure Data: B86(C)/W58/H88]
[Emotional History: None.]
[Interaction Count: 0]
[Current Favorability: 50 (Ambiguous)]
Good heavens!
Gilda couldn't help but whistle inwardly.
This data is simply perfect!
Especially the interaction count of 0.
In this open America, it's practically a rare animal, comparable to a Giant Panda!
As expected of the White Moonlight in the hearts of many Marvel fans.
If she were to wear that tight spider-suit in the future... hiss, don't think about it, any more thinking and I'll be paying tribute to Homelander.
[Ding! Detected target favorability reached 50, issuing phased reward!]
[Congratulations Host, you have received: Basic Combat Power +100!]
[Host's current combat power: 110 (equivalent to 11 Captain Americas, or 11 Captain America's strength)]
[System Prompt: Favorability Reward Mechanism Explanation.]
[Favorability 0 (Acquaintance): First meeting reward.]
[Favorability 50 (Ambiguous): Phased reward.]
[Favorability 100 (Infatuated): Large reward.]
[Successful Conception: Special skill reward.]
[Childbirth: Ultimate reward (including but not limited to Super Saiyan transformation, Ultra Instinct experience card, etc.).]
Looking at this series of reward lists, Gilda felt his DNA stir.
Is this the legendary system?
Loved it, loved it!
If he could win Gwen over, wouldn't he just take off directly?
Although a combat power of 110 is nothing in the Dragon Ball World,
on this Marvel Earth, he's at least a Walking Weapon.
Even Parker, who swings around in a Red Tight Suit, usually only has a few tens of tons of strength as Spider-Man.
This is nothing compared to him now, it's about a 50/50 match.
As long as he works harder, finds a few more confidantes to chat with, and boosts his combat power,
then when he activates the Kaioken, or even transforms into a Super Saiyan... Hmph, then forget about the Purple Potato Monster.
Even against Odin, the King of Gods, Gilda is confident he can arm wrestle him!
He could even go to Asgard and deeply discuss the origin of life with the Goddess of Death.
Then go to Mount Olympus to join Zeus, that old pervert, for a Gods' Party, wouldn't that be wonderful?
Just as Gilda was envisioning his beautiful future life, Professor Connors walked into the classroom.
Although this old man only had one hand, his aura was quite strong.
"Alright everyone, quiet down!"
Connors tapped the blackboard, his gaze sweeping across the room.
Finally, he paused on Gilda for a second, nodding in satisfaction.
"Today we're going to discuss the interspecies genetic inheritance characteristics of reptiles. Who can tell me,
"why is it difficult for the regenerative genes of lizards to be effective in mammals?"
As soon as the question was posed, the entire room fell silent.
This was a topic usually covered by seniors or even graduate students, and for these freshmen, it was practically an enigma.
In the corner, Peter Parker pushed up his glasses, about to raise his hand, but then hesitated.
Such a show-off move, if not 100% correct, could easily lead to ridicule.
However, before his hand could even go up,
"Because of rejection, Professor."
In the first row, Gilda raised his hand and then stood up to speak.
"Mammalian immune systems recognize R-complex as an invading virus."
"Unless a formula called the Decay Rate Algorithm can be found to balance this rejection, the cells will collapse instantly."
This was a core knowledge point from the future 'Amazing Spider-Man' plot, and Gilda had long known it by heart.
Professor Connors' eyes instantly lit up, his fanaticism at meeting a kindred spirit completely undisguised.
"Bingo! Absolutely correct! Johnny, it seems your time in my lab wasn't wasted!"
"This child is a genius!"
Connors was unsparing in his praise.
The surrounding classmates all cast admiring glances.
Gwen, next to him, even had stars in her eyes.
Although she knew a little, she definitely couldn't pinpoint the core algorithm problem as incisively as Gilda.
"You're amazing, Johnny!"
Gwen whispered, her voice full of admiration.
"I didn't even think of that."
[Ding! Gwen Stacy's favorability has increased to 65 (Developing Affection)!]
Listen to that wonderful prompt sound.
Gilda's lips curled into a slight smile, he turned his head and winked at Gwen, then sat down:
"Basic operation, no need to thank."
Although Gwen didn't understand the slang, it didn't stop her from finding the boy in front of her even more charming.
"System, can I directly communicate when favorability reaches 100?"
Gilda asked inwardly, his tone somewhat impatient.
[Theoretically, yes, Host. When favorability reaches 100, it means the target is willing to do anything for you.]
[However, considering Target Gwen Stacy's personality setting, which leans conservative and independent, to achieve the final step,]
[it not only requires emotional groundwork but also involves dealing with a key NPC, her father, George Stacy.]
Chief George?
That stubborn old man?
Gilda stroked his chin.
Indeed, in the original story, George was a doting father who valued his daughter more than his own life.
Peter Parker's struggles were precisely because he couldn't get past the Father-in-law's approval.
"Understood, once I handle the Father-in-law, half the battle is won."
Gilda had a plan in mind.
Isn't he just a police chief?
In this New York with its persistently high crime rate, if he occasionally helps out
or sends some achievements his way, he won't have trouble dealing with an old man, right?
Two classes flew by with Gilda's various displays of brilliance.
As soon as the bell rang, Gwen proactively extended an invitation.
"Um... Johnny, do you want to go to the cafeteria for lunch together? We can chat while we eat."
"It would be my honor."
Gilda smiled and stood up, casually helping Gwen pick up her heavy professional books.
This gesture caused Gwen's favorability to fluctuate slightly again.
The two walked out of the classroom side by side, like a perfect couple.
At the doorway, Peter Parker, who was about to leave, paused.
He looked at Gwen's radiant smile and felt an inexplicable emptiness in his heart.
It was as if something that originally belonged to him had been quietly taken away.
"Strange... why do I care so much?"
Peter shook his head, forced a bitter smile.
He was about to turn around and buy a cheap sandwich for lunch.
However, just then,
"Yo! Isn't this our wimpy Parker?"
A voice full of mockery and malice rang out in the hallway.
Immediately after, several tall members of the school's football team surrounded him.
Leading them was the burly Flash Thompson.
He wore a tight T-shirt, his muscles bulging.
On his face was that typical American bully's smirk.
"What? Going to gnaw on your dry bread in the corner again?"
Flash slapped the book out of Peter's hand, sending books scattering across the floor.
Peter's face instantly flushed red. He squatted down to pick up the books, but Flash stepped on his hand with his foot.
"Hey! Look at me when I'm talking, wimp!"
Students passing by quickly steered clear; no one dared to provoke the school bully.
Peter gritted his teeth, not resisting.
At this point, he was still just an ordinary college student with no power to fight back.
Facing such a physical disparity, he had no chance of winning.
"Stop it!"
A clear but angry voice rang out.
Gwen walked over with a frown, her face filled with disgust.
"Thompson, what are you doing? This is a university, not your arena!"
Seeing Gwen, Flash's expression stiffened for a moment, but quickly returned to his usual rogue demeanor.
"Oh, isn't this the beautiful Ms. Stacy? What, are you protecting this nerd?"
Flash whistled, his gaze boldly appraising Gwen.
"I'm just teaching him some social etiquette, right, Parker?"
Saying that, he pressed down harder with his foot, making Peter's face turn pale from pain.
Gwen's chest heaved with anger. She was about to step forward to argue, but a strong hand stopped her.
"This kind of heavy lifting is better left to men."
Gilda handed the books to Gwen and slowly rolled up his sleeves.
He looked at Flash Thompson as if he were a walking favorability gift package.
This scenario was practically tailor-made for him to show off!
In the original story, Peter could only endure the bullying or get his revenge after mutating.
But now?
Sorry, I, Gilda, will take this hero-saves-the-beauty script!
"Hey, big guy."
Gilda walked up to Flash. Although they were about the same height,
the calm and composed aura he exuded somehow managed to overpower the other party.
"I'll give you three seconds to take your hoof off my classmate's hand."
"Otherwise, I don't mind giving you a free orthopedic surgery."
Chapter 3: True Strength Relies on the System
Regarding Gilda's provocative warning.
Flash Thompson clearly didn't show even a shred of fear.
On the contrary, he looked like he had heard the funniest joke of the century.
On his fleshy face,
his expression instantly shifted from shock to extreme disdain.
He lifted his foot from Peter's hand and turned around.
He scrutinized Gilda from head to toe with the look one gives a rare, intellectually challenged creature.
"Huh?"
Flash dramatically cupped his hand to his ear, pretending to listen closely.
He then burst into jarring, wild laughter.
"Listen! Everyone, listen up!"
"What did our new school heartthrob just say?"
"Orthopedic surgery?"
Flash took a step forward.
Relying on the thick pectoral muscles of a football player,
he tried to physically intimidate Gilda.
Although their heights were nearly identical,
Gilda's tall, well-proportioned, model-like physique
certainly seemed slight compared to Flash's bulky frame.
"You? A pretty boy who relies on his looks?"
"Do you think this is some kind of idol drama? Saving the damsel in distress... wait, no, are you trying to save the weakling?"
"Tsk tsk tsk, could it be..."
A disgusting smirk appeared on Flash's face.
His eyes flickered back and forth between Gilda and Peter on the floor.
"You're not interested in women, but you've fallen for this nerd instead?"
"Hahahaha!"
The surrounding hangers-on immediately joined in with a burst of laughter, accompanied by a chorus of whistles.
Peter Parker's face, still on the floor, turned beet red.
The embarrassment and humiliation made him wish he could just disappear into the floor.
Being bullied was one thing, but now he had dragged the person who helped him into this public shaming.
This caused Peter's pitiful bit of self-esteem to sting.
"Enough! Flash!"
Peter abruptly stood up from the floor.
Although his body was still slightly trembling from the pain,
he bravely stepped in front of Gilda.
"This is between us, don't drag anyone else into it!"
"And we're all Classmates, you don't need to be so extreme!"
Peter's voice was shaking slightly, but this was the bravest he could be right now.
However.
"Classmates?"
The smile instantly vanished from Flash's face.
It was replaced by the cold indifference known as class distinction.
"Wake up, Parker."
"Who said I'm your Classmate?"
"In this school, I am the king, and you..."
Flash contemptuously patted Peter's faded shirt.
The force of the pat made Peter cough.
"You're just an ant that can be crushed at any time."
After speaking, Flash ignored Peter.
Instead, he redirected his aggressive gaze toward Gilda.
He leaned in close, so close that Gilda could smell the tobacco on his breath.
"You punk, you've got guts."
"Johnny Gilda, right? I'll remember you."
Flash lowered his voice, his tone filled with malice.
"In this school, sticking your neck out comes with a price."
"After school this afternoon, the dead-end alley behind the school."
"If you're a man, don't run."
"I'll show you exactly how orthopedic surgery is done."
After delivering this threat, Flash let out a cold snort.
He swaggered away with his arrogant lackeys, pushing through the crowd.
Leaving behind scattered books and the surrounding onlookers whispering among themselves.
Calm returned to the hallway.
Peter knelt down dejectedly and began gathering the scattered books.
His hands were still trembling slightly, and the dusty shoe print on the back of his hand was particularly glaring.
"Um... Classmate Gilda."
Peter looked up at Gilda with a complicated, apologetic gaze.
"Thank you for speaking up for me just now."
"But... I'm really sorry for dragging you into this trouble."
"Flash... he has a strong background, and he's serious; he really will corner you this afternoon."
Seeing Peter's cautious demeanor, Gilda merely shrugged indifferently.
He bent down and picked up the thickest book, *Biochemistry*.
He lightly dusted it off and handed it to Peter.
"It's no big deal, Peter."
Gilda still wore his faint smile.
It was as if he wasn't the one who had just been threatened.
"Just standing up for what's right."
"Besides, someone needs to teach this muscle-brained ape how to walk upright, right?"
Gilda's voice was soft, yet conveyed a reassuring confidence.
But this didn't relax Peter.
He knew Flash too well.
He was a mad dog.
"But..."
Peter wanted to say more, but Gwen, standing beside them, interrupted him.
"It's alright, Peter, and Johnny."
Gwen quickly stepped forward, her delicate, pretty face etched with seriousness.
"My father is the Chief of the New York Police Department."
"If Thompson actually dares to do anything excessive, I will immediately contact my dad."
"I refuse to believe he can act lawlessly in New York!"
As Gwen spoke, her eyes were resolute.
She looked very much like a Goddess of Justice.
However, Peter shook his head, a hint of bitterness appearing on his face.
"It's useless, Gwen."
"This will only be categorized as a student conflict or a brawl."
"The police... sorry, I'm not talking about your dad."
Peter sighed, his voice dropping.
"They deal with so many major cases every day; they can't be bothered with petty skirmishes like this."
"What's more, if we call the police, my life at school will only get harder."
That was the truth.
This was the rule of American campuses.
Informers and those who seek protection often face more severe isolation.
Gwen opened her mouth, wanting to retort, but found she had nothing to say.
Although she was bursting with a sense of justice, she wasn't a naive girl ignorant of social realities.
"Alright, don't worry about me."
Peter forced a smile and hugged the books in his arms tightly.
"I have to go now; I still have work at the library."
"Thank you, Gwen, and Gilda."
With that, Peter turned and fled, his retreating figure looking somewhat desolate and defeated.
Watching Peter's retreating back, Gwen frowned, clenching her small fists.
"Are we just supposed to watch him get bullied?"
"The rules of this world are truly disappointing sometimes."
Gwen murmured softly, her tone full of frustration.
Just then, a warm hand gently rested on her shoulder.
"Don't overthink it, Gwen."
Gilda's voice sounded in her ear, carrying a strange magnetism.
"If rules can't solve a problem, there's always another way."
"Trust me, I will handle this matter."
Gwen turned around, meeting Gilda's eyes, which were as deep as the sea.
There was no panic in them, only the composure of someone in control of everything.
That powerful confidence instantly calmed Gwen's previously troubled heart.
"Really?"
Gwen asked subconsciously.
"Of course."
Gilda smiled slightly; the sunlight illuminated his profile, making him unfairly handsome.
"I never lie to pretty girls."
[Ding! Detected that Gwen Stacy has developed feelings of reliance towards the Host. Favorability +10!]
[Current Favorability: 75 (Budding Affection)]
Hearing the System prompt in his mind, the smile on Gilda's face grew brighter.
If it weren't for grinding favorability, he wouldn't bother saying so much nonsense.
The police?
Ha.
In this Marvel Universe, if the police were reliable,
then Avengers should have disbanded long ago to sell roasted sweet potatoes.
Not to mention Flash Thompson, whose family is a serious player who donated an entire building to the school.
Expecting Chief George to arrest this kind of rich second generation?
Arresting him just so he can have a cup of coffee and be bailed out by a lawyer?
Ridiculous.
Although this universe doesn't seem to be entirely the MCU right now,
nor is it entirely *The Amazing* or the comics—it's more like a mashup.
But one iron rule is universal.
The poor rely on mutation, the rich rely on technology, and the true strong rely... on the System!
Gilda narrowed his eyes, glancing toward the direction Flash had disappeared down the hallway.
Since social rules can't deal with this kind of trash,
then physical rules will solve it.
Just as well.
Having just gained 110 points of combat power, the surging Qi inside him was looking for a place to vent.
This human punching bag delivered right to his door,
wouldn't it be a waste not to use him?
"Let's go, Gwen."
Gilda naturally withdrew his hand and put it into his pocket.
Chapter 4: Binding Felicia Hardy
The cafeteria at Empire State University has always been a breeding ground for hormones and gossip.
Especially during the lunch rush, the cacophony of voices is even noisier than the New York City subway.
However.
The moment Gilda stepped into the cafeteria with Gwen.
The previously rowdy space fell into a brief, eerie silence.
Immediately after, whispers began to boil over like a pot of exploding water.
"Oh my god! Who is that handsome guy? What kind of divine looks are those?"
"That's Johnny Gilda! I heard he made quite a splash in Professor Connors' class this morning!"
"Is that Captain Stacy's daughter next to him? Damn, I'm so jealous of her!"
Countless gazes focused on the two of them like searchlights.
To be precise, they were focused on Gilda.
That 1.9-meter tall, upright figure, paired with a face as perfect as an ancient Greek sculpture.
Among this group of college students still struggling with acne, it was practically a dimensional strike.
Standing out from the crowd?
No.
It was like a phoenix falling into a nest of common chickens.
Gwen carried her tray, walking beside Gilda.
Although she was long used to being watched.
This feeling of being the center of attention today still made her feel a bit... well, how should she put it.
Both proud and inexplicably nervous.
Especially the looks coming from the girls around them.
The greed and jealousy in those eyes were practically overflowing.
They looked as if they wanted to pounce and devour Gilda whole.
"It seems eating with you is a high-risk activity."
Gwen found a seat by the window and sat down, teasing him with a touch of helplessness.
"Just get used to it."
Gilda elegantly cut the steak on his plate, a hint of a smile on his lips.
"After all, the light of a genius can't be hidden, can it?"
"Narcissist."
Gwen rolled her eyes at him, but the smile on her face couldn't be suppressed.
Just then.
A waft of fragrance approached.
It wasn't a cheap perfume scent.
It was a unique, wild aroma, a mix of leather and roses.
"Mind if I share the table? You two biology geniuses."
A lazy, slightly husky, magnetic voice sounded above their heads.
Gilda looked up.
What met his eyes was a head of iconic platinum blonde hair, casually draped over her shoulders.
It was a strikingly beautiful and aggressive face.
Cat-like eyes, lips red as flame.
And those proud curves that even a loose hoodie couldn't hide.
Felicia Hardy.
The future Black Cat.
The most famous master thief in the Marvel Universe, and one of Spider-Man's most complicated confidantes.
But for now.
This wild little kitten seemed to have set her sights on a new prey.
"Felicia Hardy, Art Department."
Felicia didn't wait for their consent.
She boldly pulled out a chair and sat down opposite Gilda.
Her seductive eyes stared straight at Gilda, as if trying to see through him.
"I noticed you at the school gate, Classmate Gilda."
Felicia rested her chin on one hand, her fingertip lightly tracing her lower lip in an incredibly alluring motion.
"Your bone structure is truly perfect."
"Our Art Department is currently preparing a themed exhibition on the Greek Gods."
"I've been looking for the Apollo in my heart."
As she spoke, she leaned forward slightly, revealing a breathtaking flash of white skin at her collar.
Her tone carried a faint, unmistakable hint:
"Although our majors are different, art and biology are connected to some extent, right?"
"For example, both require a deep understanding of human anatomy."
*Hiss—*
This pace is getting a bit fast.
Next to him, Gwen's hand gripping the fork tightened instantly.
As a top student, how could she not understand this level of innuendo?
She might as well have written 'want to hook up' on her face!
"Ahem, Classmate Hardy."
Gwen cleared her throat.
A polite but awkward smile hung on her face.
However, she subconsciously leaned closer to Gilda.
It was a clear declaration of ownership.
"Johnny's current research load is very heavy; he probably doesn't have time to be a model."
"Is that so? That's a pity."
Felicia didn't seem to care about Gwen's hostility; instead, she smiled even more happily.
She took out her phone and held it directly in front of Gilda.
"But surely there's no problem with exchanging contact info?"
"What if you find yourself interested in art one day? Or want to find a place to relax together?"
Looking at the phone presented to him, Gilda thought to himself, 'Wow.'
Is this the Black Cat?
Spicy enough, direct enough!
He liked it!
[Ding! Detected classic high-quality Marvel female—Felicia Hardy!]
[Target Identity: Future Black Cat, Art Department belle with top-tier thief talent and combat abilities.]
[Detected target actively requesting to establish a connection. Bind?]
Did he even need to ask?
Only a fool would refuse a benefit delivered to his door!
"Of course, it's my honor to sacrifice myself for art."
Gilda smiled slightly and took out his phone to scan.
[Ding! Binding successful!]
[Congratulations to the host for obtaining the initial binding reward: Bukūjutsu!]
[Skill Description: A secret technique of the Crane School from the Dragon Ball World. Defy gravity and soar freely through the sky! Note: Combined with the Ki currently mastered by the host, supersonic flight can be achieved!]
Holy crap!
Gilda's hand holding the phone trembled slightly.
Bukūjutsu?!
This is a god-tier skill!
In the Marvel Universe, very few people can fly.
Even among the few who can.
Most rely on technology (like Iron Man and Falcon) or mutations (like Thor and Captain Marvel).
But Bukūjutsu is free flight achieved entirely through one's own energy!
Flexible, stealthy, and requires no external assistance!
Think about it, even someone as strong as Worldbreaker Hulk.
He can shatter a continental shelf with one foot, but he's just a flea—no matter how high he jumps, he has to land.
If he encounters a flying opponent who kites him, he'll still be at a disadvantage.
And now, he had Bukūjutsu.
Combined with 110 points of combat power.
If he later learned how to release Ki Blasts.
Wouldn't he be a human bomber?
Gilda forced down the smile on his lips.
"Alright, I won't disturb your private time anymore."
After adding him as a friend, Felicia withdrew her phone with satisfaction and stood up.
Before leaving, she intentionally blew a kiss to Gilda.
"Remember to keep in touch, my Apollo."
With that, she walked away, her long legs encased in tight jeans swaying gracefully.
She left behind only a waft of fragrance and a black-faced Gwen.
"It seems... you're very popular in the Art Department too."
Gwen stabbed the mashed potatoes on her plate fiercely with her fork, her tone sour.
"That girl... seems very enthusiastic."
"Indeed."
Gilda withdrew his gaze, and seeing Gwen's jealous little look, his heart was practically blooming with joy.
What does it mean when a woman is jealous?
It means the favorability is in place!
"However, compared to that kind of wild artistic style."
Gilda cut off the most tender piece of beef and naturally placed it on Gwen's plate.
His eyes were full of affection.
"I still prefer the rigor and elegance of science."
"Like the future biology PhD sitting next to me."
Gwen froze for a moment, looking at the beef on her plate.
Then she looked at Gilda's eyes, which seemed to speak.
The small bit of frustration in her heart vanished instantly.
Her cheeks flushed red all of a sudden.
"Smooth talker..."
Gwen muttered softly and lowered her head to eat the piece of beef.
Her heart, however, felt incredibly sweet.
[Ding! Detected Gwen Stacy's pleasant mood, favorability +10!]
[Current Favorability: 85 (Deeply Rooted Affection)!]
Nice!
Gilda felt a secret thrill.
Sure enough, without comparison, there is no harm.
This assist from Black Cat was simply perfect!
...The afternoon always passed quickly.
Especially when sitting next to a beautiful top student.
Two boring history classes were turned into flirting sessions by the two of them.
When the bell rang and the clock pointed to 5 PM.
The sunlight outside had begun to turn yellow, dyeing the entire campus in a golden red.
"Phew... finally over."
Gwen closed her textbook and stretched, her beautiful curves fully revealed.
But immediately after, her brow furrowed again.
"Johnny, later... shall we walk together?"
Gwen looked at Gilda with some concern.
"I'm worried that guy Thompson will really bring people to corner you."
"And Peter, I don't know how he's doing."
"We'd better leave together. If they really dare to do anything, I'll call the police!"
Looking at Gwen's 'ready for battle' appearance, Gilda felt a warmth in his heart.
Although this girl's police plan was likely useless.
He appreciated the sentiment.
"Don't worry, Gwen."
Gilda said nonchalantly while packing his backpack.
A cold glint flashed in his eyes.
"I said I'd handle it."
"But since you're worried about Peter, let's go get him first."
Gwen nodded obediently.
The two of them walked towards Peter Parker at the classroom door.
Gilda walked in front with a light step.
His hands were in his pockets, his fingertips lightly rubbing together.
The Ki in his body was like a rushing river, flowing happily through his meridians.
Bukūjutsu... plus 110 points of combat power.
Flash Thompson?
Heh.
I hope that guy can take a punch.
Don't start crying for your mother after just one hit.
Chapter 5: In This School, I Am the Rule
At the classroom door, the flow of people was like a weaving loom.
Peter Parker was lowering his head.
He tried to shrink himself into that faded, washed-out backpack, like a transparent person trying his best to minimize his presence.
A slender and powerful hand suddenly reached out, naturally draping over his shoulder.
"Hey, Peter, why are you walking so fast?"
Gilda's face, the kind that made all the girls in school scream, leaned in with a smile as warm as a spring breeze.
Peter's whole body stiffened, and he subconsciously tried to break free.
"Cl... Classmate Gilda? I still have things to do, I have to go first..."
"Don't be so formal, call me Johnny."
The strength in Gilda's hand increased slightly, making it impossible for Peter to move an inch.
"Gwen said she was worried about you. I also think that as Professor Connors' prize students and classmates, we should look out for each other, shouldn't we?"
After saying that, he turned his head and winked at Gwen beside him.
"Right, Gwen?"
Gwen looked at Gilda's righteous appearance of a 'big brother protecting his little brother,' and a spark of admiration flashed in her beautiful eyes.
In this cold New York, how many people would be willing to stand up for a bullied nerd?
Not only was Johnny handsome and talented, but he also had such a sense of justice and responsibility!
[Ding! Detected that Gwen Stacy has a high level of recognition for the host's character, Favorability +5!]
[Current Favorability: 90 (Will marry no one but you)!]
That sound was truly crisp.
Gilda was overjoyed in his heart, but on the surface, he still maintained an air of righteousness.
"That's right, Peter."
Gwen also stepped forward, her tone firm.
"Thompson has no sense of boundaries. If the three of us walk together, it will at least give him some pause."
Peter looked at the two of them, especially Gwen's concerned gaze.
A warm current flowed through his heart, but it was immediately followed by a pang of bitterness.
He wasn't stupid.
He looked at Gilda's hand resting on his shoulder.
Then he looked at the atmosphere between him and Gwen, where a third person could hardly fit in.
Right now, he felt exactly like those third-wheel supporting characters in movies who only exist to highlight the protagonist's aura.
"Okay... thank you guys."
Peter finally lowered his head and compromised.
The three of them walked side-by-side toward the school gate.
The setting sun stretched their shadows very long.
"Actually, regarding the Cross-species Genetic Decay Rate the Professor mentioned this morning, I thought about it later."
Gilda didn't let the atmosphere go cold, instead casually throwing out an academic topic.
"If we introduce Radioactive Isotopes for labeling, we might be able to detect the critical point of rejection reactions earlier."
As soon as he heard an academic question, Peter's eyes instantly lit up, and his original self-consciousness was thrown to the back of his mind.
"Yes! I think so too! I actually saw a similar paper in an Osborn public journal, if it could be combined with..."
Peter was just about to eloquently display his talent.
"Combined with Richard Parker's decay rate formula from back then, right?"
Gilda interrupted him with a smile, directly stating the core of what Peter wanted to say.
"Unfortunately, that formula is missing a key constant, which is the so-called '00' experimental subject serum."
Peter's mouth hung open, the words he was about to say were forced back into his throat.
This... this was a total intellectual smackdown!
How did he even know about this?
That was a conjecture found only in the manuscripts my father left behind!
Beside them, Gwen looked at the eloquently speaking Gilda, the admiration in her eyes almost impossible to hide.
"Johnny, you know so much. It feels like you know exactly what Peter is thinking."
"I know a little, just a little."
Gilda waved his hand modestly, but he was secretly laughing inside.
Sorry, Peter, for the sake of my favorability with Gwen.
Your highlight moments are all being taken by me, Gilda.
Guard against fire, theft, and Peter; this kind of wall-climbing must be nipped in the bud.
Just as the three of them were about to walk out of the school gate.
The originally bustling crowd suddenly parted to both sides, like Moses parting the sea.
Several big guys wearing varsity jackets and chewing gum blocked their path in a fan-shaped formation.
The leader was none other than Flash Thompson.
He leaned against the iconic stone pillar at the school gate, spinning a football in his hand.
A cruel smirk was plastered on his face.
"Looky here, who is this?"
Flash straightened up and approached with five or six teammates surrounding them.
"Our new school hunk, and his little sidekick."
"What, haven't been weaned yet? Do you need the beautiful Stacy to escort you home?"
Seeing this, the surrounding students picked up their pace and slipped away, afraid of being caught in the crossfire.
"Thompson!"
Gwen suddenly took a step forward, blocking the two of them like a protective mother lion.
"This is the school gate! There are surveillance cameras and security guards everywhere!"
"If you dare to do anything reckless, I'll call the police station right now. I mean it!"
As she spoke, she actually pulled out her phone.
However, Flash wasn't flustered at all, even letting out a frivolous whistle.
"Relax, beautiful."
Flash raised his hands in a gesture of surrender, but the mockery in his eyes didn't diminish at all.
"We are civilized people. We just want to invite these two gentlemen to that alley over there to discuss football tactics."
"After all, Classmate Gilda said this morning he wanted to perform orthopedic surgery on me. I'm a very studious person and can't wait to ask for advice."
Before his voice finished, the teammates behind him moved instantly.
They didn't lay a hand on Gwen, but instead used their physical advantage like a wall of flesh.
They forcibly separated Gwen from Gilda and Peter.
"What are you doing! Move!"
Gwen became anxious, pushing hard against the big guys in front of her.
But how could her strength compare to these athletic hulks?
"Hey, you two, this way please."
Flash grabbed Peter by the neck and squeezed hard; Peter's face instantly turned red.
His other hand tried to grab Gilda's collar.
Gilda shifted slightly, unobtrusively dodging that hand filled with the smell of sweat.
He didn't resist, even straightening his cuffs, that calm smile still on his face.
"Since Classmate Flash is so studious, I certainly won't be stingy with my guidance."
Gilda turned to look at the anxious Gwen, giving her a reassuring look.
"Wait for me here for five minutes, Gwen."
"I'm going to give them a lesson. I'll be back soon."
After saying that, he even took the initiative to step forward.
He walked toward the famous 'Brawling Holy Land' next to the school.
A dead-end alley filled with graffiti and trash cans.
"Smart move."
Flash snorted coldly and dragged Peter along.
Watching their figures disappear into the alley entrance, Gwen stomped her feet in anxiety, but her view was firmly blocked by the two teammates left behind... In the dark alley, the air was thick with the smell of rotting trash and urine.
This was the most authentic smell of New York.
Flash Thompson slammed Peter against the wall with a muffled 'thud'.
"Cough, cough, cough..."
Peter clutched his chest, sliding down the wall and gasping for air.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, look at you two."
Flash crossed his arms, looking down at the two of them.
The lackeys behind him blocked the exit, letting out malicious laughs.
"Sticking together even after school, people would think you're a couple if they didn't know better."
"The thing I hate most in this life is a sissy without balls."
Flash spat on the ground, his gaze becoming fierce.
"In this school, I am the rule."
"Parker, since you've found a new backer, I'll teach you a good lesson on behalf of society about what it means to face reality!"
After saying that, Flash didn't even bother to look at Gilda.
In his eyes, this pretty boy was only good with his mouth; he'd probably wet his pants when things actually got physical.
He'd start by dealing with the soft target Parker to liven things up.
"Hold him down!"
Two lackeys immediately stepped forward, pinning Peter's arms on both sides.
"No... wait..."
Peter struggled in terror, but it was in vain.
Thud!
Flash delivered a simple, heavy punch that landed solidly on Peter's abdomen.
Ugh—
Peter doubled over like a shrimp, bile nearly coming up.
The intense pain made him unable to even scream, only letting out painful, wheezing sounds.
"Stop it! You're breaking the law!"
Gwen's scream came from the alley entrance, but she was quickly pushed back by the guard.
"Refreshing!"
Flash shook his hand, a twisted sense of satisfaction on his face.
He turned around, aiming his violent eyes at Gilda, who had been standing by watching the show.
Gilda leaned against the wall, hands in his pockets.
He wasn't angry because Peter was hit, nor was he afraid of the impending violence.
He almost felt like laughing.
This was it?
This kind of child's play fight deserved to be called violence?
The Qi within his body was slowly circulating.
His combat power of 110 made the World in his eyes slow down.
"Hey, pretty boy."
Flash walked up to Gilda, smirking as he cracked his knuckles with a series of pops.
"Scared stiff?"
"Kneel down now and call me daddy, and I might consider not hitting your face."
"After all, if this face gets ruined, how are you going to seduce rich women in the future?"
Gilda sighed and extended a finger, lightly picking his ear.
"I say, are your villain lines all bought wholesale?"
"No originality at all."
"I gave you a chance, Thompson."
"Unfortunately, you didn't cherish it."
Hearing this, Thompson flew into a rage.
"You're asking for it!"
Flash roared, swinging the same fist that had just hit Peter, aiming to smash it into Gilda's nose.
However.
Just as he was about to strike.
BOOM!!!
An earth-shattering explosion erupted on the next street without any warning.
Immediately following were ear-piercing alarms and the screams of the crowd.
The ground shook violently, and the trash cans in the alley were knocked over.
Flash was startled by the sudden explosion, his movements halting abruptly as he looked toward the source of the blast in terror.
Everyone was stunned.
Even Gilda couldn't help but look over.
Chapter 6: Satisfied with My Craft?
The World outside the alley was already in a state of utter chaos.
Screams, sirens, and the roar of heavy objects crashing into the ground echoed from all directions.
At the entrance of the bank on the main street outside the alley.
Bulletproof glass was shattered all over the floor.
"Roar—!!"
Accompanied by a roar, a massive figure crashed through the thick walls of the bank and charged onto the street.
It was a monster nearly two and a half meters tall.
He was covered head to toe in a gray combat suit as thick and rough as Rhino hide.
Atop his head sat a massive, singular horn!
The two heavy metal safes he carried in his hands looked as light as plastic bags.
Rhino, Aleksei Sytsevich.
Kingpin's number one bulldozer.
"Hahaha! New York Police? Just a bunch of monkeys in uniforms!"
Rhino laughed maniacally; facing the first Police car that came screaming toward him, he didn't retreat but instead charged forward.
Lowering his head, he aimed his horn at the front of the car and slammed into it like an out-of-control tank.
"Boom!"
The Police car was flipped directly into the air, rolling twice.
It crashed heavily onto a roadside fire hydrant, sending a geyser of water shooting into the sky.
"Fire! Fire! Stop him!"
Screeching brakes sounded one after another as over a dozen Police cars quickly formed a blockade.
A middle-aged Police officer with graying hair and a resolute face pushed open his car door and stepped out, shouting commands through a megaphone.
It was none other than the New York City Police Department Director, George Stacy.
Gwen's father.
At this moment, Chief George was drenched in sweat, his expression grave to the extreme.
"Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!"
Intense gunfire erupted instantly.
Countless bullets poured onto Rhino like rain.
However.
"Clang! Clang!"
Those 9mm bullets, which were more than capable of piercing a human body.
Struck Rhino's skin, only to send sparks flying before bouncing off harmlessly.
Not even the skin was grazed!
"Damn it! Is this what those super-villains are like? We need heavy weaponry! Where's SWAT?!"
Chief George slammed his fist against the car door.
Faced with such inhuman power, ordinary Police seemed utterly helpless.
Rhino patted his chest, a cruel smile spreading across his face.
"This is your welcoming ceremony? Too weak!"
He charged again, smashing right through the Police line.
"Looks like the New York Police are having a team-building exercise today? Then come and play with me!"
...Meanwhile, inside the dark alleyway.
The explosions and chaos outside only caused Flash Thompson to daze for a moment.
He turned back, looking at the person still leaning against the wall.
Gilda, with his hands in his pockets and an air of nonchalance.
That indifferent, almost theatrical expression.
Deeply stung Flash's fragile ego.
A sense of shame from being belittled instantly outweighed his surprise at the distant explosions.
"What are you looking at?!"
Flash spat viciously.
"Whatever is blowing up outside is the Police's problem; it has nothing to do with us."
"Besides..."
A sinister smile appeared on Flash's face as he pointed toward the alley entrance.
"With things this messy outside, those Police are already overwhelmed."
"Even if that beauty calls the Police now, do you think anyone would come to help a pathetic worm like you?"
This was the evil of human nature.
Under a breakdown of order, perpetrators often feel safer and more uninhibited.
"Thompson! Are you crazy?!"
Gwen's eyes reddened with anxiety.
Her blonde hair looked a bit disheveled from her distress, which only added a touch of tragic beauty.
She stared intently into the alley and shouted loudly:
"Johnny! Forget about your pride, just run! Or... or just back down!"
She was truly afraid.
Although Johnny was tall, Flash was the star quarterback of the school football team!
His explosiveness and physique were not something an ordinary student could compare to.
She didn't want to see any scars on Johnny's perfect face.
Even more, she didn't want to see this talented boy's pride broken because of her.
This intense feeling of heartache and desire to protect.
Even Gwen herself didn't realize that it had already far exceeded the scope of being just classmates.
"Back down?"
Flash gave a cruel laugh and cracked his neck.
"Too late!"
"Gwen, keep your eyes wide open and watch!"
"Watch how I turn the 'god' in your heart into a pile of trash that only knows how to beg for mercy!"
"From now on, no girl will ever scream for this pretty boy's face again!"
Before the words had even finished.
Flash let out a roar, lunging like a predatory bear.
Using the momentum of his run, his fist—the size of a sandbag—whistled through the air, aimed straight at Gilda's face!
If this punch landed, a shattered nose would be the least of his worries!
"No!!!"
Gwen let out a terrified scream and instinctively covered her eyes with both hands.
Peeking through her fingers, she closed her eyes in despair, not daring to watch the bloody scene that was about to unfold.
However.
One second.
Two seconds.
The expected thud of a fist hitting flesh did not come.
Instead... "Snap."
A soft sound.
Like catching a tossed tennis ball.
Immediately followed by.
"Aaaaaargh—!!!"
A pig-slaughtering scream abruptly exploded in the narrow alley.
Gwen's delicate body trembled.
This voice... why didn't it sound like Johnny's?
She tremblingly moved her fingers and opened her eyes.
In the next second.
Her beautiful eyes instantly widened, and her cherry-like mouth hung slightly open.
She was frozen in place.
Inside the alley.
Gilda still maintained his posture of leaning against the wall.
He hadn't even taken his hand out of his left pocket.
His right hand was raised effortlessly.
Five slender fingers were tightly gripping Flash's massive fist.
No matter how much Flash strained, his face turning red and his neck bulging.
That fist was like it had been welded into Gilda's hand, completely motionless!
"Is that it?"
Gilda tilted his head slightly, looking at the terrified and sweat-drenched Flash in front of him.
A playful smile curled at the corner of his mouth.
"Boring."
No sooner had he spoken.
Gilda's right wrist gave a seemingly casual flip and twisted downward.
"Crack!"
The crisp sound of bone dislocating was exceptionally jarring in the quiet alley.
"Awooo—!!"
Flash's entire body twisted and he fell to his knees uncontrollably, following the direction of Gilda's force.
The arm he had intended to use for violence was now bent outward at a bizarre angle.
The intense pain caused his entire face to contort into a shade of red, and snot and tears instantly gushed out.
"Let go! Let go! It's broken! It's going to break!!"
Flash knelt on the ground, frantically slapping the floor, his previous arrogance completely gone.
"Boss!"
The lackeys blocking the entrance finally reacted.
Seeing their boss neutralized in a single move.
They looked at each other and, relying on their numbers, began to charge forward while cursing.
"Damn it, you dare touch our boss!"
"Kill him!"
Facing the charging group, Gilda didn't even lift an eyelid.
He simply applied a bit more pressure to the hand holding Flash's fist.
"Aaaaaargh! Don't come over! Stay the hell away!!"
Flash let out a shrill howl, feeling as if his wrist was about to be crushed.
He roared at his subordinates in terror:
"Back off! Everyone back the hell off! My hand... my hand is going to be ruined!!"
The lackeys screeched to a halt, looking at each other, unsure whether to advance or retreat.
Gilda looked down at the kneeling Flash from above.
His gaze was cold, devoid of any warmth.
"I told you, I'm here to perform orthopedic surgery on you."
"You see, I'm a man of my word."
"So? Satisfied with my craft?"
Chapter 7: One Cannot Be Too Much of a Saint
"Ow, ow, ow! Let go! Let go, damn it!"
In the dead-end alley, Flash Thompson's screams were more piercing than a slaughtered pig's.
His usually arrogant face was now twisted like a crumpled rag.
Cold sweat dripped down from his forehead.
The intense pain from his wrist made him feel like his bones were about to be crushed the next second.
That kind of strength was simply not human!
"Let go?"
Gilda raised an eyebrow slightly.
Not only did he not let go, but his fingers tightened slightly.
"Crack, crack..."
The sound of bones grinding echoed again.
"Aaaah! You bastard! Do you know who I am?!"
The agonizing pain made Flash lose his mind.
Kneeling on the ground, even as he convulsed with pain, he continued to spew threats.
"My dad is a school board member! If you dare cripple me, I swear, I'll make sure you can't survive in New York! I'll find someone to kill you! Kill your whole family!"
Hearing these words, Gilda felt like laughing.
"Kill me? And my whole family?"
Gilda chuckled.
"Thompson, it seems you haven't grasped the situation yet."
"Right now, your hand is in my hand, and your life is in my hand too."
"Since you've put it that way, if I let you go now, wouldn't I just be waiting for you to come back for revenge?"
"W-What... what do you want to do?"
Flash panicked.
"Don't be nervous. Just a little lesson to help you remember."
Before he finished speaking.
Gilda's left hand whipped out of his pocket, turning into an uppercut.
"Bang!"
A dull thud.
Gilda's fist slammed solidly into Flash's abdomen.
He controlled his strength for this punch.
He used maybe... about 5% of his 110 Combat Power?
After all, if he used even a little more force, this guy's stomach might have been punched straight through.
Spilling guts everywhere would be too disgusting; it would scare the beautiful little Gwennearby.
But even so.
"Pfft—cough, cough, cough!"
Flash's eyes bulged instantly, and his entire face turned deep purple.
He opened his mouth wide, gasping for air, but found he couldn't draw a single breath into his lungs.
Stomach acid mixed with the pizza he had for lunch sprayed out uncontrollably.
He curled up on the ground, unable to even let out a scream.
This one punch had completely broken him.
Gilda stepped back in disgust, avoiding the mess on the ground.
He turned his head to look at Peter Parker, who was huddled in the corner, a sunny smile returning to his face.
"Peter, this punch was for you."
"How was it? Satisfying?"
Peter Parker was leaning against the wall, looking at the agonizing Flash on the ground, his expression incredibly complex.
He hadn't expected Gilda to be so ruthless.
That decisiveness and ruthlessness were a complete contrast to his gentle image.
But it was undeniable... seeing the bully who usually picked on him lying on the ground like a dead dog.
Peter felt an unprecedented surge of satisfaction in his heart.
But soon.
The "Uncle Ben-style" moral shackles etched into his bones resurfaced.
"Jo... Johnny."
Peter swallowed hard and stammered.
"That's... that's enough, right?"
"Even though he's a jerk who bullies people, we... we can't become like him."
"If we break him, we'll get into big trouble."
"Violence doesn't solve problems, we..."
Hearing this, Gilda couldn't help but roll his eyes.
As expected.
This was Peter Parker.
Even if he was ground into the dirt, even if he gained superpowers.
That almost pedantic kindness in his bones still wouldn't change.
This was also what Gilda disliked most about him.
Commonly known as—a Saint.
In this dog-eat-dog Marvel Universe, such a personality does nothing but satisfy one's own ego while getting everyone nearby killed.
"Peter, you're wrong."
Before Gilda could even open his mouth to argue.
Gwen, who had been standing at the alley entrance, suddenly walked over.
She looked at Flash on the ground; there was no sympathy in her eyes, only a hint of satisfaction.
"Violence indeed can't solve all problems, but it can solve the people creating the problems."
"For someone like Thompson, reasoning is useless. Only by making him feel pain and fear will he learn to respect others."
After speaking, Gwen turned to look at Gilda, her beautiful eyes sparkling with admiration.
"Johnny, you did the right thing."
"Scum like this deserves a good lesson!"
[Ding! Detected Gwen Stacy's approval of the host's violent behavior; values are highly aligned! Favorability +1!]
[Current Favorability: 91 (Will only marry you)!]
It's already 91?
Gilda looked at Gwen with some surprise.
Who would have thought?
This version of Gwen actually suits his taste so well?
As expected of a Police chief's daughter, violent blood truly flows in her veins.
She's no little white rabbit; she's clearly a leopard cub that hasn't grown up yet!
Love it, love it.
Since my wife has spoken, I have to reward this pig with another punch.
"Did you hear that, Peter?"
Gilda shrugged, looking at Peter's dazed expression with a slight smirk.
"This is why Gwen is a goddess while you can only watch from the sidelines."
"Sometimes, a man needs to be a bit ruthless."
With that.
Gilda raised his hand again.
He slammed down another punch on Flash, who hadn't even recovered yet.
"Bang!"
This punch landed on Flash's face.
Several bloody teeth flew right out.
Flash didn't even grunt; his eyes rolled back, and he passed out cold.
The World went quiet.
Gilda let go, casually tossing Flash's deformed hand onto the ground.
"Alright, next."
Gilda looked up, his gaze sweeping over the varsity team lackeys blocking the alley entrance.
His gaze was cold, as if looking at a flock of lambs waiting for slaughter.
"What? Do you guys want to have surgery too?"
The lackeys were already scared witless by Gilda's brutal methods.
Though they usually acted tough with Flash, they were ultimately just a bunch of students who hadn't seen much of the World.
Even in their usual fights, it was mostly pushing and shoving, or a group ganging up on someone who didn't dare fight back.
When had they ever seen a scene like this?
One punch makes a person vomit acid, and two punches knock out teeth and cause a blackout.
Is this even a fight?
"N-No... no..."
They glanced at each other, seeing the fear in one another's eyes.
Just as they were hesitating whether to turn and run.
One of them, who looked a bit sturdier.
Suddenly gritted his teeth and pulled a Switchblade from his jacket.
"W-What are you afraid of! There's only one of him!"
"Let's go together! If something happens to the boss, his family won't let us off!"
"Get him!"
With someone leading the way, the rest seemed to find their backbone.
In moments of extreme fear, people often erupt with a blind ferocity.
"Die!"
The guy with the knife roared and charged first, the blade aimed straight at Gilda's abdomen.
Seeing this, Gwen's face instantly turned pale.
"Johnny! Watch out! He has a knife!"
...Meanwhile, on the street outside the alley.
A black SWAT armored vehicle flew through the air.
After tumbling a dozen times in the air, it crashed into a shop across from the alley with a loud boom.
The sound of shattering glass was deafening.
Immediately after.
A massive gray figure appeared in everyone's sight, accompanied by a cloud of dust and rubble.
Rhino!
By now, he had completely entered a state of frenzy.
His body was covered in bullet marks, but those attacks were like tickles to him, only serving to fuel his ferocity.
"Get out of the way! Everyone get out of my way!"
Rhino roared, casually flipping over a taxi blocking the middle of the road.
His small, bloodshot eyes darted around.
The Police firepower was too intense, especially the helicopters circling in the sky and the heavy machine guns set up in the distance.
Even if they couldn't pierce his armor, it still hurt like hell!
He needed cover or an escape route.
Soon.
His gaze locked onto the entrance of this alley.
The alley was narrow and deep, and it connected to a complex sewer system.
As long as he got inside, those heavy weapons would become useless!
"Haha! Luck is on my side!"
Rhino laughed maniacally, lowering his head and aiming his massive horn at the alley entrance.
His massive feet stomped the ground, causing the asphalt to explode instantly.
He was like a train at full speed, charging toward the alley with matchless momentum!
Directly across from the alley.
Behind the defensive line established by the Police.
Chief George Stacy, having just directed a volley of fire, was about to order the use of Armor-piercing rounds.
He instinctively looked in the direction of Rhino's charge.
With that one look.
His heart clenched, and his pupils dilated to the limit.
At the entrance of that alley.
Amidst the thick dust and chaos.
He saw that familiar flash of gold.
It was his precious daughter, whose forehead he kissed every day before leaving home.
Gwen!
Right now, because of the earlier vibration, Gwen...
Was leaning against the wall, standing right at the outermost edge of the alley!
Right in the middle of Rhino's charging path!
"No!!!"
"Gwen!!!"
Chief George let out a heart-wrenching roar.
He tried to rush out desperately but was held back firmly by the officers around him.
"Director! It's dangerous!"