Ch: 61-66
Chapter 61: The Top Agent's Interview
Osborn Tower, Top Floor.
Though the first rays of the morning sun were brilliant, they always seemed somewhat redundant for this luxurious office.
Because the air here was perennially permeated with a scent known as "hormones."
Johnny sat in the executive chair, holding a report on the development progress of the Symbiotesuits.
The efficiency of the "scientific sisters," Helen Zhao and Maya Hansen, was indeed astonishing.
After only one night, the prototype data for the first-generation biological Symbiote suit was already out.
"Not bad."
Johnny closed the folder, feeling quite pleased.
And beneath his desk...
Our Scarlet Witch, Wanda Maximoff, was obediently crouching there.
Her eyes, which were originally full of wildness and alertness, now appeared somewhat blurred and focused.
Red magical energy flickered slightly at her fingertips, as if she were performing some kind of delicate "operation."
"The use of magic is indeed much more delicate than physical means."
Johnny reached out and pressed down on Wanda's small head, feeling a thrill deep within his soul.
This little Witch...
She learns things so fast.
Yesterday she was a novice who only knew how to throw energy balls around, but today she had already mastered the "correct usage" of Chaos Magic.
"Master."
Just then, Kingpin's mood-killing voice came through the intercom.
"The HR department has sent over a new resume."
"They say Miss Emma has been too busy lately and her body is a bit 'overwhelmed,' so they need to hire another personal assistant to share the pressure."
Hearing this, the corners of Johnny's mouth curled up slightly.
Was Emma overwhelmed?
She was completely broken; she's probably still lying in the lounge questioning her life right now.
"Send them in."
Johnny patted Wanda's head, signaling that today's morning lesson was over.
Wanda wiped the corners of her mouth with a hint of lingering desire and stood up.
Her exquisite little face wore an intoxicating blush.
"Go on, go play with your sister Gwen and the others."
Johnny helped her tidy her slightly messy collar.
"I have serious business to discuss."
"Mm."
Wanda nodded obediently and vanished outside the door in a flash of red light.
Not long after...
There was a knock on the office door.
"Come in."
The door opened.
Kingpin stepped aside, revealing a silhouette beautiful enough to make any man instantly flush.
It was a woman with wine-red wavy hair.
She wore an extremely well-tailored black professional suit skirt; the buttons on her white shirt underneath were strained tight, as if they might pop off at any moment.
Her long legs, encased in black silk, were straight and slender; with every step, the sound of her high heels clicking on the floor felt like they were stepping on one's heartstrings.
That kind of mature charm and seductive elegance emanating from her bones...
She was practically a walking hormone dispenser.
Natasha Romanoff.
Black Widow.
"Hello, Mr. Gilda."
Natasha walked to the desk, wearing a professional yet seductive smile.
She leaned forward slightly, and a breathtaking glimpse of snow-white skin was faintly visible at her neckline.
"I am Natalie Rushman, here to apply for the position of Assistant to the CEO."
Her voice was slightly husky, possessing a unique magnetic quality.
It was a vocal tone, professionally trained to best arouse a man's desire.
Johnny leaned back in his chair, twirling a pen in his hand, his gaze scanning her body without restraint.
Finally, it settled on those emerald green eyes.
[Ding!]
[Detected classic high-quality Marvel female—Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow)!]
[Target Identity: S.H.I.E.L.D. Ace Agent, Top Assassin, Master of Disguise.]
[Current Disguise: Natalie, Legal Department Assistant.]
[Body Data: B89/W61/H91 (Golden Ratio, Flexibility MAX)]
[System Suggestion: This is a thorny black rose and a sugar-coated shell sent by S.H.I.E.L.D.! Since that old fox Fury is being so polite, the host might as well eat the sugar coating and... fire the shell back!]
[Conquest Reward Preview: Grandmaster-level Fighting Skills, Life Extension (Super Soldier Serum variant), and... a comprehensive Agent service experience!]
Listening to the system's prompt, Johnny almost laughed out loud.
Nick Fury, oh Nick Fury.
Have you run out of tricks?
Since the hard approach with Hill didn't work, you send a soft one?
Do you really think I'm the kind of lecher who can't move when he sees a beautiful woman?
Well... although I actually am.
But I don't just take any old rotten scraps.
"Natalie... Rushman?"
Johnny picked up the resume on the desk and gave it a performative glance.
"Fluent in four languages, Harvard Law graduate, and even worked as a model?"
"A very impressive resume."
"Thank you for the compliment, sir."
Natasha confidently puffed out her chest; the scale was indeed quite considerable.
"I believe I am capable of handling this job."
"Whether it's handling documents, or... taking care of the boss's daily life."
She emphasized the words "daily life."
Her eyes were smoldering, full of suggestion.
If it were that playboy Tony Stark, he'd probably have signed the signature line by now.
But Johnny wasn't Tony.
He was more direct and more overbearing than Tony.
"Is that so?"
Johnny tossed the resume aside, stood up, walked around the desk, and approached Natashastep by step.
That mountain-like sense of pressure struck again.
Natasha's heart skipped a beat.
Was this the "non-human pressure" mentioned in Hill's report?
It certainly lived up to its reputation.
But she didn't retreat; instead, she met Johnny's gaze, a provocative smile tugging at the corners of her mouth.
"Boss, are you going to... interview me personally?"
"Of course."
Johnny walked up to her, extended a finger, and gently tilted her chin up.
The sensation from his fingertip was delicate and warm.
"However, I don't like this kind of fake interview."
Johnny's gaze instantly became sharp, like two knives piercing straight through Natasha's disguise.
"For example..."
"Using a fake name."
Natasha's pupils contracted sharply for a moment.
But she was a top Agent after all; the expression on her face didn't budge an inch.
"Sir, I don't understand what you're talking about."
"Don't understand?"
Johnny gave a light chuckle.
He suddenly struck!
His movement was as fast as lightning.
Natasha instinctively tried to block, but just as her muscles tensed, her wrist was locked tight by Johnny's iron-like hand.
Then, a massive force was transmitted.
The World spun.
*Thud!*
Natasha was pinned down onto the desk.
The posture... was extremely shameful.
"Black Widow, Natasha Romanoff."
Johnny pressed down on her, leaning close to her ear, his voice low and teasing.
"The ace of S.H.I.E.L.D."
"What? Didn't Hill tell you when she went back?"
"In front of me, all disguises are as laughable as being naked."
Her identity was exposed in an instant.
Natasha stopped pretending.
She was no longer that submissive little assistant; her gaze instantly became fierce.
"Since you know who I am."
"Then you should also know my methods for dealing with men."
Though suppressed, Natasha's body began to writhe like a snake.
Trying to find an opportunity to counterattack.
Those tight thighs intentionally or unintentionally brushed against Johnny's waist.
"Methods?"
Johnny laughed.
Not only did he not dodge, but he also took the opportunity to wedge his leg between hers.
Completely sealing off all her paths of retreat.
"Your methods are nothing more than beauty and poison."
"A pity."
Johnny's fingers slid down her spine, finally stopping at that stunning curve.
He gave it a hard squeeze.
"Ngh!"
Natasha let out a muffled groan, her body instantly going soft.
"Your beauty is a pleasure for me."
"As for poison..."
A golden light flashed in Johnny's eyes.
"It's ineffective against me."
"Since that one-eyed dragon Fury sent you here, don't think about going back in one piece."
"Hill's performance yesterday was okay."
"But I haven't had my fill yet."
"It just so happens you've arrived."
Johnny ripped open that bothersome shirt in one go.
Buttons scattered all over the floor.
"Let me see."
"The legendary Black Widow."
"Just how... poisonous you are."
Natasha looked into Johnny's eyes, which were burning with fire.
For the first time.
She felt the fear of a hunter becoming the prey.
This man... simply isn't human!
"Wait!"
Natasha tried to use words to stall for time.
"We can talk! About cooperation with S.H.I.E.L.D...."
"Cooperation?"
Johnny kissed her red lips in one go.
Blocking all her nonsense.
"This is cooperation."
"The most in-depth cooperation."
...Outside the office.
Kingpin silently pulled a fourth wad of cotton from his pocket.
He stuffed it into his ear.
Then he turned around, standing like a guardian deity blocking the hallway entrance.
"The boss's stamina..."
"Is truly enviable."
Kingpin sighed.
It seemed S.H.I.E.L.D. had lost the lady and the soldiers again this time.
However...
Should the soundproofing equipment in Osborn Tower be upgraded?
This commotion... I'm afraid even the security guards downstairs can hear it... [Ding!]
[Detected target Natasha Romanoff's psychological defenses are collapsing!]
[Current state: Shocked, powerless, body betraying will.]
[Congratulations to the host for achieving the achievement: Agent Bane!]
[Obtained phase reward: Super Physique (Endurance Enhancement MAX)!]
[Skill Description: Your kidneys are now made of iron! No matter how many enemies you face, you will stand tall!]
Hearing the prompt in his mind...
Johnny, who was busy, became even more ferocious in his movements.
Endurance Enhancement MAX?
Good stuff!
Now...
Even if a "Gender-bent Avengers" bundle comes in the future...
I can take them all on alone!
"Natasha."
Johnny looked at the woman with blurred eyes beneath him.
A conqueror's smile curled at the corners of his mouth.
"Welcome to Osborn."
"Your interview..."
"Passed."
...Osborn Tower, Top Floor.
*Exhale*...
Johnny leaned back in the executive chair and casually lit an after-sex cigarette.
Through the swirling smoke, he looked down at Natasha, who was lying on his lap like a lazy Persian cat.
At this moment, where was even a hint of the S.H.I.E.L.D. ace Agent's sharpness in the Black Widow?
Her wine-red wavy hair was scattered messily over Johnny's abs.
That exquisite and seductive face was now filled with exhaustion and a kind of... emptiness and satisfaction as if her soul had been drained.
The black professional suit skirt that was originally well-tailored had now turned into a pile of rags, hanging loosely around her waist.
That kind of broken beauty was actually more pulse-pounding.
"How is it? Miss Natalie."
Johnny's fingers entwined with her hair, his voice husky and teasing.
"Are you satisfied with this CEO assistant job?"
"Or rather..."
"Do you have any objections to this interview result?"
Natasha looked up slightly.
A complex light flashed in those emerald green eyes.
There was both the shame of being completely seen through and conquered as an Agent, and a trace of... having tasted the sweetness that she herself was unwilling to admit.
This man...
He was simply a tireless Beast.
Both in terms of strength and that particular ability, he was ridiculously strong.
"No objections... BOSS."
Natasha's voice was terribly husky, as if it contained a mouthful of grit.
She stuck out her tongue and gently licked her slightly swollen lips.
"Your... interview process was indeed very 'in-depth'."
"I like it very much."
[Ding!]
[Detected target Natasha Romanoff's physical and mental defenses have completely collapsed!]
[Achievement achieved: Widow Terminator!]
[Congratulations to the host for obtaining the binding reward: God-level Disguise!]
[Skill Description: Now, even if you dress up as a woman... ahem, anyway, you can perfectly control your micro-expressions, aura, and even heartbeat. In this World, no one can see through your lies!]
[Obtained extra reward: Grandmaster-level Fighting Skills (Red Room Secret Edition)!]
[Current Favorability: 85 (Love through sex, gradually sinking)]
Hearing the system prompt, the smile on Johnny's face grew even wider.
God-level Disguise?
Grandmaster-level Fighting?
Although for him now, these skills were just icing on the cake...
But one can never have too many skills.
"Since you're satisfied, then go to work obediently."
Johnny patted Natasha's smooth back.
"Emma has indeed been too tired lately. From now on, organizing documents, serving tea and water, and..."
Johnny leaned to her ear and smirked:
"The task of warming the bed is handed over to you."
"Yes, Master."
Natasha responded submissively, picked up the clothing fragments on the floor, and walked into the inner lounge, looking somewhat disheveled yet full of charm.
Looking at that swaying back...
Johnny felt incredibly good.
S.H.I.E.L.D.?
As long as they dared to send them, he dared to take them!
He'd take as many as they sent!
Just then...
*Knock, knock, knock.*
An extremely restrained knock on the door sounded.
"Come in."
Kingpin pushed the door and entered.
First, he very keenly scanned the empty office, then glanced at the closed lounge door.
Then he silently took out the wad of cotton he had prepared earlier and unobtrusively stuffed it back into his pocket.
It seemed the battle was over.
"Master."
Kingpin walked to the desk and respectfully bowed that massive bald head.
"What's the matter?"
Johnny adjusted his slightly messy belt.
"It's about the follow-up issues of the group acquisition."
Kingpin's expression was a bit unsightly; clearly, he had encountered trouble that even he, the underground emperor, found thorny.
"Although we forcibly controlled the board of directors and completed the equity change..."
"But..."
"Some flies have still come sniffing around."
"The New York City District Attorney's Office, along with several law firms representing the interests of small shareholders, have jointly filed a lawsuit with the court."
"They allege that our acquisition procedure was illegal, suspected of violent coercion, and are requesting to freeze all assets of the Osborn Group and launch an investigation."
Speaking of this, a fierce light flashed in Kingpin's eyes.
"Master, should I send someone to take care of those leading lawyers..."
He made a throat-slitting gesture.
Simple, crude, and effective.
"Tsk."
Johnny waved his hand, his face full of disapproval.
"Kingpin, oh Kingpin, you're a legitimate businessman now."
"How can you resort to killing at every turn?"
"We should convince people with virtue, understand?"
"And..."
Johnny rubbed his chin, a playful look flashing in his eyes.
"Lawyers?"
"That reminds me."
"How can a group as large as Osborn not have a top-tier legal team?"
"Did the other side send someone?"
"Yes."
Kingpin nodded.
"The opponent's lead lawyer is already waiting in the large conference room downstairs."
"Her attitude is very firm; she said if she doesn't see you, she'll apply for a court injunction directly."
"And..."
Kingpin paused, his expression becoming a bit strange.
"This lawyer is a bit special."
"Special?"
Johnny became interested.
A lawyer that even Kingpin would find special?
Could she transform or something?
"Lead the way."
Johnny stood up and straightened his suit.
"I'll go meet this lawyer who isn't afraid of death."
Chapter 62: Since You're a Lawyer, Let's Call This "Legal Aid"
Osborn Tower, 50th floor, Grand Conference Room.
This place was originally used for holding press conferences; it was spacious and bright.
At this moment, a person was sitting in the conference room.
A woman.
She wore a dark gray professional skirt suit, well-tailored, which perfectly accentuated her tall and slender figure.
Her black curly hair fell over her shoulders, and a pair of black-rimmed glasses rested on the bridge of her nose, making her look intellectual and capable, yet exuding a stern sense of "do not approach."
Jennifer Walters.
One of New York's top criminal defense attorneys.
Of course, she also had a little-known identity—Bruce Banner's cousin.
Right now, she was looking down at the documents in her hands, her brow furrowed.
"This is nothing short of robbery!"
Looking at the shocking stock transfer records on the documents, Jennifer was so angry she slammed her pen onto the table.
"Overnight, all the opposition directors have either gone missing or died in accidents."
"The remaining ones obediently signed over their shares."
"How is this a business acquisition? This is clearly a gang war!"
"That guy named Johnny Gilda..."
Jennifer gritted her teeth, her eyes full of rage.
"He's simply lawless!"
As a lawyer full of a sense of justice, what she detested most were these upstarts who bullied others and trampled on the law.
No matter how high the legal fees the other party offered, she was determined to send this bastard to prison!
Just then.
"Creak—"
The door to the conference room was pushed open.
Johnny walked in leisurely, hands in his pockets, his long legs moving with ease.
Behind him followed Kingpin, looking like a bodyguard.
"Yo."
As soon as Johnny entered, his gaze fell upon Jennifer.
He raised an eyebrow slightly.
"Is this the lawyer who's here to pick a fight?"
"She's... quite striking."
That intellectual vibe mixed with a hint of wildness, and a repressed sexiness within her sternness.
Especially those eyes hidden behind the black-rimmed glasses, stubborn and bright.
Tsk.
Isn't this the legendary "Legally Blonde"?
Moreover... Johnny keenly sensed that faint, violent green energy within her body.
Hulk bloodline?
"Interesting."
The smile on the corner of Johnny's mouth grew deeper.
"Are you Johnny Gilda?"
Jennifer stood up, staring directly at Johnny without a hint of fear.
Although this man was excessively handsome, even making her heart skip a beat.
But her professionalism allowed her to quickly calm down.
"I am Jennifer Walters, the lawyer representing the Minority Shareholders' Rights Alliance."
"Mr. Gilda, regarding your acquisition of the Osborn Group, we have obtained a large amount of illegal evidence."
"Including but not limited to intimidation, extortion, and even..."
Jennifer stared into Johnny's eyes and said word by word:
"Murder."
"If you cannot provide a reasonable explanation and stop this illegal behavior."
"Then, we will see you in court."
Facing Jennifer's rapid-fire accusations.
Johnny not only wasn't angry but instead began to clap.
"Clap, clap, clap."
"Brilliant."
Johnny walked up to Jennifer, pulled out a chair, sat down, and casually crossed his legs.
"Miss Walters, is it?"
"You're quite eloquent."
"However..."
Johnny leaned forward, and his powerful masculine aura instantly enveloped Jennifer.
"Aren't you mistaken about one thing?"
"The law?"
"In this building, I am the law."
"You—!"
Jennifer was choked with rage.
She had seen arrogant people, but never someone this arrogant!
"Mr. Gilda! Please show some self-respect!"
Jennifer took a step back, suppressing the anger in her heart.
"This is the U.S.! Not your private kingdom!"
"Do you think you can do whatever you want just because you have money?"
"I'm sorry."
Johnny spread his hands, looking like it was only natural.
"With money, one really can do whatever they want."
"And..."
Johnny's gaze swept up and down Jennifer's body, as if he could see through her clothes to her essence.
"I don't just have money."
"I also have power."
"A kind of power... that can make a little lawyer with an exploding sense of justice like you shut up obediently."
Jennifer felt a chill run through her body.
That gaze was too aggressive.
Like a lion staring at its prey.
But her Hulk bloodline prevented her from shrinking back like an ordinary woman; instead, it stirred up a sense of defiance.
"Is that so?"
Jennifer sneered.
"Then try me!"
"I will apply for an enforcement order! I will have the media expose your evil deeds!"
"I will..."
"You will become my chief legal counsel."
Johnny suddenly interrupted her.
His tone was calm, yet it carried an unquestionable dominance.
"What?"
Jennifer was stunned.
"I said."
Johnny stood up, approaching her step by step.
"Your ability is quite good, I appreciate it."
"Rather than helping those minority shareholders who only buzz around like flies outside with their lawsuits."
"Why not help me instead."
"I'll pay you ten times... no, a hundred times your current salary."
"Furthermore..."
Johnny walked up to her, reached out a finger, and gently hooked the ID badge on her chest.
"I see that you seem to be suppressing a... very interesting power inside you."
"If you don't release it, it'll be bad for your health."
Boom!
Jennifer's expression changed instantly.
How did he know?!
Her Hulk bloodline was her biggest secret!
Even S.H.I.E.L.D. might not know!
This man... "You... who exactly are you?"
Jennifer's voice trembled slightly; she instinctively wanted to step back, only to find a wall behind her.
"Who I am isn't important."
Johnny propped one hand against the wall, pinning her in the corner.
"What's important is..."
"I can help you control that power."
"Even..."
Johnny leaned close to her face, the distance between them reduced to just a few centimeters.
"I can let you experience the joy of releasing your wild side."
"How about it, Attorney Jennifer?"
"Do you want to sign a contract with me?"
"A... lifelong deed of sale?"
[Ding!]
[Detected a classic high-quality Marvel female—Jennifer Walters (She-Hulk)!]
[Target Identity: Top lawyer, member of the Hulk family, potential gamma ray mutant.]
[Body Stats: B90/W62/H92 (Will be even more explosive after transformation!)]
[Current Favorability: -20 (Disgust) → 10 (Shock/Curiosity)]
[System Suggestion: This is a wild horse that's hard to tame, but once tamed, she will be your strongest legal shield and... bed chariot! It is suggested that the host use the dual methods of "power suppression + material temptation"!]
[Conquest Reward Preview: Gamma Energy Control, Law Mastery (though the host doesn't need to follow the law), and... unlocking the special form experience of "Hulk Girl"!]
Listening to the system's prompt.
The green light in Johnny's eyes (not the cuckold kind) grew even brighter.
Hulk Girl?
Those muscular lines full of power after transformation... that wild impact to the extreme... isn't this exactly prepared for testing my "Super Physique"?
"Get away!"
Jennifer was mortified and angry, raising her hand to push Johnny away.
But as soon as her hand touched Johnny's chest, it felt like she had touched a red-hot iron.
That firm muscular feel made her heart flutter inexplicably.
"Don't be so fierce."
Johnny grabbed her hand and kissed it.
"Since you're a lawyer."
"Then let's talk about legal aid."
"You see, I also really need aid."
"Especially..."
Johnny's gaze swept meaningfully over her red lips.
"In terms of certain physiological needs."
"This could be considered... a type of legal aid, right?"
"You! Scoundrel!"
Jennifer's face turned red with anger.
But for some reason.
Under the shroud of this man's powerful aura.
She actually felt her legs... going a bit weak?
Moreover, that green energy that had been suppressed inside her seemed to be stirring as well.
As if it were longing for... a hearty release.
"Whether I'm a scoundrel or not."
Johnny grabbed her waist and, ignoring her struggle, kissed her directly.
"You'll know... after you've tried."
Chapter 63: Taming the Wild Mare!
Osborn Tower, Large Conference Room.
The originally solemn negotiation table had now turned into a battlefield filled with gunpowder smoke.
Except...
The weapons of this war were not legal clauses, but the most primitive hormones.
"Mmph—!"
Jennifer Walters' eyes widened suddenly.
The domineering sense of aggression coming from her lips and teeth caused her brain to go blank instantly.
Immediately after.
A wave of shame and anger like she had never felt before surged through her!
Who was she?
She was New York's famous criminal defense attorney!
She was the strong woman who left prosecutors speechless in court!
This bastard... actually dared to force a kiss on her at the negotiation table?!
"Let... let go..."
Jennifer desperately tried to push away the man in front of her.
With the violent fluctuation of her emotions, the blood in her body began to boil.
A violent green energy surged from the depths of her cells!
Zizi—
Her originally dark brown pupils were instantly dyed with a layer of eerie emerald green.
Under her tight professional suit, muscle lines began to bulge slightly, filled with explosive power.
That kind of power was enough to flip a truck!
Hulk bloodline, awakening!
"Oh?"
Johnny felt the change in the beauty in his arms.
That immense force trying to push him away would have probably shattered an ordinary person's sternum long ago.
But for Johnny, who possessed 2,500 points of combat power.
This was like a kitten scratching an itch.
In fact... it felt quite comfortable?
"Is this gamma energy?"
Johnny didn't let go; instead, the arm around her waist tightened suddenly.
The Ki in his body erupted instantly, forming an invisible shackle that forcibly suppressed Jennifer's transformation, which was about to spiral out of control!
"Don't be in such a hurry to transform, Attorney Walters."
Johnny pulled back a little, looking at those eyes flashing with green light, a playful smirk curling on his lips.
"If you turn into that two-meter-tall Hulk."
"This sexy professional outfit won't survive."
"Although I don't mind seeing your clothes burst."
"But right now..."
Johnny's finger slid across her tight thigh, his tone suggestive.
"I prefer this semi-transformed state."
"It has wildness, yet retains rationality."
"Simply perfect."
Jennifer discovered with horror.
The monstrous strength she was so proud of was completely useless against this man!
He was like a mountain; no matter how she struggled, he remained motionless.
And... as Johnny's burning hand wandered.
The gamma energy that was originally violent and wanted to destroy everything actually became weirdly docile.
It transformed into a warm current that made her whole body tingle.
Rushing straight to her lower abdomen!
"What... what did you do to me?"
Jennifer's voice trembled slightly; her original anger was being replaced by an inexplicable longing.
"Nothing."
"Just helping you clear out some pent-up fire."
Johnny picked her up and placed her directly on that large mahogany conference table.
Clatter—
The documents, pens, and even the half-finished cup of coffee on the table were all swept to the floor.
"Now, the court is in recess."
Johnny leaned over, his hands braced on either side of Jennifer's body, looking down at her from above.
"We are entering the evidence collection phase."
"Attorney Jennifer."
"I need to check."
"Whether you have the ability to serve as the Chief Legal Counsel of the Osborn Group."
"This... this is sexual harassment!"
Jennifer gritted her teeth, still putting up a final resistance.
"I'm going to sue you..."
"Sue me?"
Johnny chuckled, his finger hooking the first button of her shirt.
"Go ahead and sue then."
"But before that."
"You have to fulfill your defense obligations first."
"For example..."
Pop!
The button flew off.
That dizzying patch of snowy white, set against the emerald gamma energy, appeared exceptionally seductive.
"Prove to me how much pressure your physical fitness can withstand."
Jennifer's reason snapped completely at this moment.
The pleasure of being conquered by absolute strength, mixed with the physiological impulse brought by the gamma energy.
Made her instinctively lift her legs and wrap them around Johnny's waist.
"Bastard..."
She cursed, then suddenly pulled down Johnny's tie.
She took the initiative to kiss him.
Since she couldn't resist.
Then... just enjoy it!
...Outside the conference room.
Kingpin still stood guard like a door god.
He silently glanced at the tightly closed door.
Then, with practiced ease, he pulled out... the fifth wad of cotton from his pocket.
He stuffed it into his ears.
"Tsk."
"The boss isn't recruiting a lawyer."
"He's clearly recruiting a sparring partner."
"And listening to this commotion..."
"This female lawyer's stamina seems even stronger than that female Agent's?"
Kingpin shook his head, a hint of envy appearing on his face.
This was the World of the strong.
Even when looking for women, they had to find ones who could fight.
Otherwise, it could easily cost a life... Inside the conference room.
The battle was unprecedentedly intense.
With the enhancement of gamma energy, Jennifer's endurance and flexibility had reached the peak of humanity.
That wild counterattack made Johnny feel incredibly refreshed.
This was what he wanted!
A match of equals (though still a crushing victory)!
"Mr. Gilda..."
"Your... method of defense..."
"Is too... too extreme..."
Jennifer spoke intermittently, her fingernails digging deep into Johnny's back.
But in those green eyes, there was only total surrender.
"Is it extreme?"
Johnny gave a wicked grin, his movements becoming even wilder.
"This is called... the passion of courtroom debate."
"Now."
"Tell me loudly."
"For this vote, are you voting against, or in favor?"
"In... in favor!"
"I'm in favor of everything!"
Jennifer screamed out, her whole body arching like she'd been hit by an electric shock.
The green energy suppressed within her body finally found an outlet.
It erupted completely!
...[Ding!]
[Detected that the target Jennifer Walters has completely surrendered body and soul!]
[Achievement reached: Taming the Wild Mare!]
[Congratulations to the host for obtaining the binding reward: Gamma Energy Control(Beginner)!]
[Skill Description: You can now freely control the energy in your body, and can even enhance your strength through anger like the Hulk! Of course, you are better at enhancing it through... ahem, that kind of thing.]
[Obtained extra reward: Absolute Rationality (Passive)!]
[Skill Description: No matter how violent the energy is, it cannot overwhelm your reason! You are the true master!]
[Current Favorability: 90 (Admiration of Strength/Dependency)]
Listening to the prompts in his mind.
Johnny let out a long sigh of relief.
Gamma Energy Control?
This was good stuff.
Although he didn't need to transform into a big green guy, the physical enhancement from this energy was substantial.
Combined with the Saiyan bloodline... it was practically a perpetual motion machine!
"Phew..."
Johnny rolled off Jennifer and casually pulled over the torn suit jacket to cover her body.
At this time, Jennifer.
Had already returned to her normal form.
Those green eyes had turned back to dark brown, but there was a hint of tenderness and obedience in her gaze that had never been there before.
She curled up on the conference table like a kitten, traces of the previous madness still remaining on her body.
"How was it? Attorney Jennifer."
Johnny lit a cigarette and leaned against the table, looking completely at ease.
"Now..."
"Can we talk about the employment contract?"
Jennifer pulled the jacket tighter to cover her exposed skin.
Her face was so red it looked like it was about to drip blood.
"You... you're just a rogue."
"Thanks for the compliment."
Johnny blew out a smoke ring.
"The contract is right here."
He pointed to his chest.
"The term is for a lifetime."
"As for the benefits..."
Johnny's gaze swept over her.
"Room and board included, and... making sure you're satisfied."
"Bah!"
Jennifer spat, but the corners of her mouth couldn't help but turn up slightly.
"An annual salary of five million dollars, not a penny less."
"Also..."
She looked up at Johnny with a complex gaze.
"You have to help me control that power."
"Deal."
Johnny snapped his fingers.
"I have plenty of money."
"As for the power..."
He leaned in and gave Jennifer a kiss on the forehead.
"In the future, we can do this kind of'special training' every day."
"I guarantee you'll control it with absolute mastery."
Jennifer rolled her eyes at him.
But her body honestly snuggled further into his arms.
At this moment.
She knew.
She was completely stuck on this rogue's ship now.
And... she didn't seem to want to get off anymore.
Chapter 64: Miss Potts' Backless Dress
"Click."
Johnny slowly buckled the metal clasp of his belt, letting out a crisp sound.
He looked down at Jennifer Walters, who was slumped in the executive chair like a puddle of mud.
This once-vigorous legal beauty was now gasping for air, her poise completely gone.
That expensive deep-grey professional suit had been torn to shreds.
In particular, those black stockings with a large rip hung around her ankles, exuding a tragic beauty after being ravaged.
"How was it, Lawyer Walters?"
Johnny reached out to help tidy her messy hair, which was damp with sweat, a wicked smirk playing on his lips.
"Are you satisfied with the boss's 'onboarding training'?"
"Or rather..."
"Has the Gamma energy in your body been vented enough?"
Jennifer struggled to lift her eyelids; those eyes that were originally full of wildness now held only submission and blurriness.
"You... you're a monster..."
She cursed feebly, but her voice was so soft and sweet it sounded like acting spoiled.
"My waist... feels like it's broken..."
"Don't worry, it won't break."
Johnny patted her perky... well, conscience.
"The Hulk family's resilience is cosmic-tier."
"Rest for half an hour, and you'll be full of life again to help me with my lawsuits."
"Now..."
Johnny turned around, picked up his sunglasses from the desk, and put them on.
"I'm going to collect another debt."
"Wait here for me to come back like a good girl. Tonight..."
"We'll change positions and continue discussing 'the law'."
Hearing the words "change positions," Jennifer's whole body trembled, and she subconsciously squeezed her legs together.
But deep in her eyes, a flicker of hard-to-detect anticipation flashed.
This damn... addiction to the marrow... Queens, Flushing Industrial Park.
The headquarters of Hammer Industries was located here.
Compared to the high-tech feel of Stark Industries and the biological feel of the Osborn Group, the Hammer Industries building looked a bit... tacky gold.
There were ostentatious decorations and impractical fortifications everywhere.
Just like its owner, Justin Hammer.
Strong on the outside but hollow within, and extremely showy.
"Screech—!"
A line of black luxury cars pulled up arrogantly at the main entrance of Hammer Industries.
A dozen burly bodyguards in black quickly got out, clearing the area of bystanders.
The door of the stretch Lincoln in the middle opened.
Kingpin was the first to get out, respectfully opening the rear door.
Johnny Gilda stepped out.
He shoved his hands into his pockets and looked up at the giant "HAMMER" sign.
A hint of disdain flashed in his eyes.
"What a tasteless place."
"However..."
"As an assembly line for producing cannon fodder robots, it'll do."
"Let's go."
"Let's meet that Mr. Hammer, who always wants to be Tony Stark but can only be a Joker."
...Hammer Industries, Main Exhibition Hall.
Justin Hammer was standing on a high platform, high-spiritedly directing a group of workers to move equipment.
He wore an ill-fitting, expensive suit and gold-rimmed glasses.
His face bore that signature, nauseating fake smile.
"Faster! Everyone move faster!"
"The Stark Expo is about to begin!"
"On that day, we are going to give that egomaniac Tony Stark a big surprise!"
Hammer waved his arms, spit flying everywhere.
"We're going to let him know that Iron Man's technology is outdated!"
"The future belongs to Hammer Industries!"
And in the shadows behind him.
A burly man covered in tattoos with a toothpick in his mouth sat at a computer, clattering away on the keyboard.
Ivan Vanko (Whiplash).
The genius from Russia and Tony Stark's nemesis.
"This garbage software..."
Ivan muttered in Russian, his eyes dark and sinister.
"Without my Arc Reactor, these tin cans are just a pile of scrap metal."
"What did you say?"
Hammer turned around, looking dissatisfied.
"I paid a fortune to get you out of that Monaco Prison, not to hear you complain!"
"I want iron soldiers! iron soldiers that can fly, fight, and make the Department of Defense cough up money!"
Just as the two were arguing.
"I'm afraid that might be a bit difficult, Mr. Hammer."
A cool, capable, yet slightly anxious female voice came from the doorway.
Immediately following.
The sound of high heels clicking on the floor rang out.
A woman wearing a white professional skirt suit, with strawberry blonde hair and a gentle yet firm temperament, walked in quickly.
She held a document in her hand, her face slightly pale, clearly quite angry.
Pepper Potts (Pepper).
The current CEO of Stark Industries and the woman behind that bastard Tony Stark.
"Miss Potts?"
Hammer was stunned for a moment, then his face broke into that greasy smile.
"What wind blew you here?"
"Could it be that Tony finally came to his senses and is going to sell Stark Industries to me?"
"Stop dreaming, Hammer."
Pepper coldly interrupted him, tossing the document onto the desk.
"I'm here to deliver a lawyer's letter."
"You are illegally copying Stark Industries' patented technology, and without authorization..."
"Stop, stop, stop!"
Hammer spread his hands like a rogue.
"Patents? What patents?"
"Everyone knows the Iron Man Suit is a treasure belonging to all mankind. I'm just... well, paying homage?"
"You!"
Pepper was so angry her chest heaved violently.
Her already tight professional attire was stretched even more out of shape.
The unique charm of a mature woman was fully revealed at this moment.
"Tsk tsk tsk."
"What a beautiful picture."
"Pity it's being ruined by a fly."
Just then.
A magnetic voice abruptly rang out at the hall entrance.
Everyone subconsciously turned their heads.
The doors were pushed wide open.
Johnny Gilda walked in, surrounded by a group of black-clad bodyguards like stars circling the moon.
He didn't look at Hammer, nor at the Russian man typing away.
Those eyes, deep as the sea, stared straight at Pepper Potts standing in the center of the hall.
In his gaze...
...was an unmasked appreciation and the greed of a predator.
"Who are you?!"
Hammer, being ignored, was instantly fly into a rage.
"Security! Where's security! Why are you letting any random riffraff in!"
"Slap!"
Before he could finish shouting.
Kingpin stepped forward and delivered a backhand slap.
It sent Hammer's gold-rimmed glasses flying.
The man spun in place three times like a top before landing hard on his backside.
"Shut up, trash."
Kingpin said coldly, his murderous aura as an underworld emperor scaring Hammer into immediate silence.
Johnny acted as if he hadn't heard the commotion.
He walked with elegant steps straight up to Pepper.
"Pleasure to meet you, Miss Potts."
Johnny extended his hand like a gentleman, his smile as warm as a spring breeze.
"I am Johnny Gilda."
"The new Chairman of the Osborn Group."
"Of course..."
He leaned in slightly, getting closer to Pepper, his voice dropping a few notches.
"I am also Tony Stark's... creditor."
Pepper was stunned.
She looked at this man who was impossibly young yet breathtakingly handsome.
Her heart actually skipped a beat against her will.
Gilda?
The mysterious tycoon who had been making waves in New York recently and swallowed Osborn overnight?
"Creditor?"
Pepper subconsciously took Johnny's hand.
"When did Tony ever owe you money?"
"He doesn't owe me money."
Johnny held Pepper's well-maintained hand, his thumb intentionally or unintentionally stroking the back of her hand.
Smooth, warm.
The texture was excellent.
"But he owes me... something else."
Johnny's gaze moved past Pepper's shoulder to the giant reactor model behind her.
"For example, the future of this World."
"And..."
Johnny pulled back his gaze, letting it fall once more on Pepper's slightly weary but still charming face.
"An excellent, beautiful lady like you, who has been let down by that playboy."
[Ding!]
[Detected Marvel classic high-quality female—Virginia 'Pepper' Potts!]
[Target Identity: CEO of Stark Industries, Tony Stark's right-hand woman (currently in a cold war/anxiety phase).]
[Body Stats: B86/W60/H88 (Mature and intellectual, top-tier OL)]
[Current Status: Exhausted, anxious, disappointment in Tony is accumulating.]
[System Suggestion: This is the perfect time to steal her away! Utilize Tony's decadence and the impending crisis to show your strength and reliability! NTR is the most exciting!]
[Capture Reward Preview: Arc Reactor technology (miniaturized), Stark Industries shares, and... a green pasture over Iron Man's head!]
Listening to the system's notification sound.
Johnny's sense of mischief instantly exploded.
NTR Tony Stark?
This was practically one of the ultimate achievements for a transmigrator!
Just think about it.
That egomaniac flying in the sky in his Iron Man Suit.
While his girlfriend was in his office... tsk.
The picture was too beautiful to imagine.
"Mr. Gilda, please conduct yourself with dignity."
Pepper pulled her hand back as if from an electric shock, her cheeks slightly flushed.
Though she spoke words of rejection, there wasn't much disgust in her eyes.
Rather, it was more of a fluster from being noticed by a powerful person.
After all.
The current Tony was obsessed with parties and drinking (actually because he was dying of palladium poisoning), and had no heart for the company, let alone caring for her.
And the man before her.
Young, powerful, overbearing.
That overwhelming pheromone, to her who was in an emotional void and under high work pressure.
It was simply a fatal temptation.
"I am conducting myself with dignity."
Johnny smiled and didn't continue to press.
After all, haste makes waste.
Especially with this kind of high-loyalty, top-tier woman.
He needed to slowly crack her shell.
"I just feel that for a talent like Miss Potts to stay in Stark's mess is a complete waste of your abilities."
Johnny turned around, looking at Justin Hammer who was still whimpering on the floor.
"Hammer."
"Yes! Yes!"
Hammer scrambled to his feet, clutching his swollen face, looking sycophantic.
"Mr. Gilda, what are your orders?"
"Name your price."
Johnny looked around the hall, which was filled with the aura of a nouveau riche.
"I'm taking your company."
"Including all the equipment here, the personnel, and that Russian man over there typing."
"What?!"
Hammer's eyes widened.
"No! That's impossible! This is my life's work! And the Stark Expo..."
"Kingpin."
Johnny didn't bother wasting words with him.
"Help Mr. Hammer remember the rules of New York."
"Yes."
Kingpin stepped forward with a cruel grin, his knuckles cracking loudly.
"No! Wait! I'll sell! I'll sell!"
Hammer instantly caved.
In the face of life, pride meant nothing.
"Very good."
Johnny nodded with satisfaction.
He turned his head toward Ivan Vanko in the corner.
The burly man had stopped his movements and was now chewing a toothpick, looking at Johnnywith the eyes of a predator watching prey.
"You are strong."
Ivan said in broken English.
"But I only fight for revenge."
"Revenge?"
Johnny walked up to him, looking at the crude Arc Reactor.
"Want to kill Tony Stark?"
"I can give you the chance."
"In fact..."
Johnny leaned in, his voice low.
"I can provide you with better materials, better technology."
"To let you build the real 'Whiplash'."
"As long as you are obedient."
Ivan remained silent for a moment.
Then he grinned, revealing a mouthful of yellow teeth.
"Deal."
...With Hammer and Ivan settled.
Johnny returned to Pepper.
By now, Pepper was stunned by this series of sudden changes.
In just a few words.
Hammer Industries had changed hands?
How much power... did this man have?!
"Miss Potts."
Johnny straightened his sleeves and extended the invitation again.
"Now, Hammer Industries is mine too."
"Add in Osborn."
"I already possess enough capital to rival, or even surpass, Stark Industries."
"How about it?"
"Interested in jumping ship?"
"Come to me."
"I will give you the CEO position of the entire commercial empire."
"And..."
Johnny's gaze became exceptionally deep, carrying a magic that made one sink into it.
"I will know how to cherish you better than Tony Stark."
Pepper's heart pounded violently.
Reason told her she should refuse.
But looking at this charismatic man before her.
That word "no" just wouldn't come out.
"I... I need to think about it."
In the end, she could only hurriedly give an ambiguous answer.
"It's alright."
Johnny smiled.
He smiled like a hunter who already had the victory in hand.
"I have plenty of time."
"By the way."
Johnny seemed to suddenly remember something.
"I heard the opening ceremony of the Stark Expo is the day after tomorrow?"
"I'll be there to show my support."
"I hope that by then..."
"I'll get to see Miss Potts wearing that backless dress I like so much."
With that.
Johnny turned and left.
Leaving Pepper standing alone, her face red as a ripe apple.
How did he know... I was planning to wear a backless dress?!
...Walking out of the Hammer Industries gates.
Johnny sat back in the car.
"Master, where to?" Kingpin asked.
"Home."
Johnny leaned against the backrest, eyes closed to rest.
"A good harvest today."
"Not only did I take Hammer Industries, I also planted a seed in Pepper's heart."
"Next..."
"We just wait for this seed to sprout, and then..."
"Let it bloom and bear fruit."
However.
Before that.
Johnny suddenly opened his eyes and looked toward a shadow outside the window.
There, a faint, almost non-existent presence seemed to be spying on them.
"Heh."
"It seems there's still a little mouse that hasn't been cleared out."
The corners of Johnny's mouth curled up slightly.
"Ghost?"
"Interesting."
"Since you've come, don't even think about leaving."
"Just as it happens, my laboratory..."
...is missing an observer who can turn invisible."
Chapter 65 – AVA starr
Starr
A black stretch Maybach drove smoothly along the expressway in Queens.
The neon lights outside the window receded rapidly, stretching into brilliant bands of light.
Johnny leaned back in the spacious leather seat, swirling a glass of chilled whiskey that seemed to have appeared out of nowhere.
He was in a very good mood.
The acquisition of Hammer Industries went even more smoothly than expected; although that idiot named Justin was a bit noisy, fortunately, Kingpin's slap was loud enough to teach him how to shut up.
As for Ivan Vanko... as long as he was given enough hope for revenge, even if he were asked to build a Gundam, the Russian brute would likely work on it with feverish enthusiasm.
Of course, what Johnny relished most was the 'legal debate' he had with that beautiful attorney, Jennifer, in the conference room.
A body enhanced by gamma energy was indeed durable.
That sensation of tightness and power... tsk tsk.
"Master, are we heading back to the tower?"
From the driver's seat, Kingpin, acting as the chauffeur, glanced at the rearview mirror and asked respectfully.
"No rush."
Johnny took a sip of his drink, his gaze not directed forward but instead fixed with interest on a seemingly empty shadow outside the car window.
The corners of his mouth curled into the playful smile of a hunter seeing his prey fall into a trap.
"Since a guest has followed us all this way, wouldn't it be rude of me, as the new chairman, not to say hello?"
"A guest?"
Kingpin was startled, and then a murderous glint flashed in his small, beady eyes.
As an underworld emperor, his perception far exceeded that of ordinary people, yet at this moment, he hadn't noticed any trace of a stalker at all.
This meant the other party was either a top-tier stealth Master or... possessed some kind of special superpower.
"Stop the car."
Johnny ordered calmly.
"Screech—!"
The Maybach came to a steady stop under a secluded overpass.
Johnny pushed the door open and got out, straightening his spotless suit, and waved toward the empty air.
"Come out."
"Aren't you tired after following me for so long?"
The air was deathly silent.
Only the occasional sound of a distant siren could be heard.
It was as if Johnny were merely talking to himself.
"Heh, quite shy, aren't we?"
Johnny shook his head, the smile in his eyes gradually turning cold.
"I'll count to three."
"If you still don't show yourself, I'll have to drag you out of that damn Quantum Dimensionmyself."
"Three."
"Two."
The instant Johnny counted to 'two'...
The empty air in front of him suddenly distorted like ripples on water.
Immediately after, a blurry figure slowly emerged.
It was a figure in a grey-white tactical bodysuit, wearing a red-goggled mask. Her entire body flickered and ghosted constantly, like a television screen with bad reception.
Ghost!
Ava Starr.
"You can see me?"
A slightly pained and surprised female voice, processed through a voice modulator, came from beneath the mask.
Her body was in an extremely unstable state of quantum superposition, allowing her to phase through any object, but also forcing her to endure the agonizing pain of cellular tearing at every moment.
"See you?"
Johnny chuckled and pointed to his eyes.
"To these eyes of mine, the scent of the quantum fluctuations on you is more pungent than a can of surströmming."
Of course, he was bluffing.
Mainly, it was hard to miss that big red dot on the system map.
"Who sent you?"
Johnny stepped toward the flickering figure.
"S.H.I.E.L.D.? Or some suicidal competitor?"
"None of your business."
Ghost's voice was cold, and her body flickered again as if she were preparing to attack.
"I'm just here to take something."
"Take something? My life?"
Johnny didn't stop; instead, he drew closer.
"Stay back!"
Ghost barked, her form flashing as she vanished instantly.
The next second...
She appeared directly behind Johnny!
Her fist, vibrating at high frequency, passed through Johnny's suit without resistance, aiming straight for his heart!
This was what made Ghost so terrifying.
Her attacks could bypass all physical defenses and act directly inside the human body!
"Die!"
However...
At the very moment her hand was about to touch Johnny's skin...
"Hum—!"
A blue light suddenly flared from Johnny's wrist.
The Space Stone!
The quantum energy that was originally in a phased state solidified instantly upon contact with the Space Stone's light, like frozen water!
"What?!"
Ghost discovered to her horror that her hand had actually solidified!
And it was held firmly in mid-air by an invisible force, unable to move forward or back!
"Clap."
Johnny slowly turned around, reached out, and casually gripped the wrist that was supposed to have pierced his heart.
It felt cold to the touch and was trembling slightly.
"Trying to give me a heart massage?"
Johnny looked into the terrified eyes behind the mask, his lips curling into a wicked smile.
"The technique is quite unique, but unfortunately, I don't need it."
"You... how did you do that?!"
Ghost tried desperately to phase away, but she was horrified to find that her proud Quantum Phasing ability had completely failed before this man!
It felt as if the surrounding space had been locked down!
"Is it that hard?"
Johnny shook the stone on his wrist that was emitting a faint blue glow.
"You should know, when it comes to space, I'm a professional."
"However..."
Johnny didn't crush her wrist; instead, he pulled her toward him.
He pulled the constantly flickering woman directly into his embrace.
Beneath that tactical bodysuit, though tense from pain, he could still feel her startling suppleness.
"You seem to be in a lot of pain, don't you?"
Johnny's large hand unceremoniously wrapped around her waist, and the physical contact made Ghost freeze.
This was the first time in many years that she had been touched so tangibly by anyone!
In the past, she was like a Ghost, unable to touch anyone and unable to be touched.
Loneliness, pain, despair.
But now... this man's embrace was actually damn warm!
"Let... let go of me!"
Ghost's voice took on a slight tremor, whether from fear or from this long-lost sensation of contact.
"Your cells are tearing and recombining, experiencing death and rebirth every single moment."
Johnny didn't let go; instead, he leaned in close to her mask, his voice low and seductive.
"This pain must be unbearable, right?"
"Ava Starr."
Upon hearing her real name, Ghost's body jolted, and all her struggling ceased instantly.
"You... you know me?"
"I told you, I know everything."
Johnny reached out with his other hand and gently unlatched the edge of her mask.
"Click."
The mask was removed.
Revealing a pale face covered in sweat, yet still heart-stoppingly beautiful.
Those eyes were bloodshot and weary, like a wounded little beast.
"A true beauty indeed."
Johnny praised her, his finger gently stroking her cold cheek.
"It would be a loss to the whole World if such a beautiful face were to vanish due to quantum collapse."
"Do you want to be cured of this condition?"
Cured?
Those words were like a bolt of lightning, piercing through the weakest part of Ava's defenses.
She wanted it more than anything!
To cure this disease, she had to work as an assassin for S.H.I.E.L.D., do dirty work for HYDRA, and even resort to stealing and robbery!
"You... you can cure me?"
Ava's voice trembled, a spark of hope igniting in her eyes.
"Of course."
Johnny nodded, his eyes full of confidence.
"The Osborn Group now has Regeneration Cradle technology and Extremis."
"Plus this little toy in my hand..."
Johnny pointed to the Space Stone.
"Stabilizing your quantum state is just a matter of minutes."
"But..."
Johnny's tone shifted, revealing that familiar capitalist facade.
"The cost of treatment is very expensive."
"Can you afford it?"
Ava bit her lip, her eyes dimming.
She was a fugitive, an assassin; she had nothing but her miserable life.
"I... I can work for you."
Ava whispered.
"I can kill for you, steal for you, do any dirty work..."
"Kill?"
Johnny shook his head with a look of disdain.
"I have Kingpin, The Hand, and even a country acting as my enforcer."
"I don't need you to kill anyone."
"Then... what do you want?"
Ava looked at him with some desperation.
Johnny laughed.
He tightened his arm around Ava's waist, pulling her closer to his body.
"My lab is missing an observer who can walk through walls."
"And..."
Johnny leaned down and breathed into her ear.
"I've heard that this ability to transition between phased and solid states, in certain situations..."
"...can bring about some very marvelous experiences?"
"For example... tightly wrapping when you're solid, and when you're phased..."
"I'd like to try that feeling."
Boom!
Ava's face instantly turned so red it almost looked like it was bleeding.
She might not have much social experience, but she wasn't stupid.
This man... actually wanted to treat her like that kind of toy?!
"You! Shameless!"
"Thanks for the compliment."
Johnny didn't mind, instead taking it a step further.
"The choice is yours."
"Continue to endure that soul-tearing pain until you dissipate into a cloud of quantum foam."
"Or..."
"...be my woman, enjoy a healthy body, and... my favor?"
"I'll only count to three."
"Three."
He didn't even need to count to two.
The agonizing pain that tortured her every second left her with no courage to refuse.
And... in this man's arms, the sense of stability provided by the Space Stone's energy was a comfort she had never experienced in her life.
It was like a ship that had been adrift for a long time finally finding a harbor.
"I... I agree."
Ava closed her eyes, tears sliding from the corners.
She resigned herself to her fate.
As long as the pain stopped, she would do anything.
Even if it meant being... a strange body pillow.
[Ding!]
[Detected Marvel special potential female—Ava Starr (Ghost)!]
[Target Identity: Quantum mutation assassin, in extreme pain.]
[Current Status: Yielding, longing for redemption.]
[Achievement Unlocked: Captured a Wild Ghost Girl!]
[Congratulations to the host for obtaining the binding reward: Quantum Phasing (Active Skill)!]
[Skill Description: You can walk through walls too! Of course, more importantly, through quantum entanglement, you can ignore any physical barriers... to go anywhere you want (like someone's bedroom)!]
[Obtained extra reward: Special Physique Enhancement—Quantum State Adaptation!]
[System Tip: This target has a unique body structure. It is recommended that the host use the Space Stone to stabilize her state during'special treatment,' otherwise an embarrassing'stuck' situation might occur~]
Hearing the system prompt, Johnny almost burst out laughing.
Stuck?
Wouldn't that be even more interesting?
"Good girl."
Johnny kissed her pale lips with satisfaction.
"Come on, I'll take you to your new home."
"Tonight, we'll start the first stage of treatment."
"I'll use my energy to help you... stabilize properly."
Johnny scooped Ava up in his arms, ignoring the Maybach.
He kicked off the ground and soared into the sky.
Leaving Kingpin standing alone by the car, silently watching the direction his boss flew off in.
He pulled a wad of cotton out of his pocket again.
He sighed.
"It seems the tower's soundproofing will be tested again tonight."
...Osborn Tower, late at night.
When Johnny walked into the familiar lounge carrying Ava...
Natasha and Emma were wearing loose robes, drinking red wine on the sofa.
Seeing Johnny bring back another woman, and a white-haired girl in a bodysuit at that...
Both of their expressions were quite interesting.
"I knew it."
Natasha rolled her eyes and swirled her wine glass.
"The boss never comes home empty-handed."
"What is it this time? A female Ghost?"
Emma adjusted her non-existent glasses (which had been broken) and sized Ava up with interest.
"She doesn't look like she's in very good health; can she handle the exertion?"
"Don't worry."
Johnny placed Ava on the bed, smirking as he began to unbutton his shirt.
"I'm curing a patient here."
"Just as well, you two shouldn't just sit there idle."
"This is a new research topic."
"Regarding the 'Practical Application of Quantum Mechanics in Group Exercise'."
"Come over and help me hold her down."
"I'm going to start... injecting the 'vaccine'."
Under the suggestive lighting, a deep exploration of science and ethics began once again... Two days later.
The opening ceremony of the Stark Expo.
Countless spotlights illuminated the entire night sky.
Johnny, wearing a deep blue custom suit and escorting a radiant Gwen, appeared at the entrance of the venue.
Behind him followed a flock of beauties.
Natasha, Emma, Felicia... and even Ava, whose complexion was much rosier and who no longer flickered.
This lineup was more dazzling than Hollywood stars on a red carpet.
"Johnny, bringing so many people, that old show-off Tony will definitely die of jealousy when he sees this."
Gwen whispered in Johnny's ear; although she was teasing, her eyes were full of sweetness.
"It won't matter if he's jealous."
Johnny smiled, his gaze cutting through the crowd and precisely locking onto a figure directing the scene not far away.
Pepper Potts.
She was wearing the backless evening gown Johnny had specifically requested—elegant and sophisticated, yet carrying a hint of unavoidable anxiety.
Seeing Johnny approach, Pepper's eyes lit up, and she instinctively wanted to walk over, yet she hesitated.
"Look."
Johnny winked at Gwen.
"Tonight's main course has only just begun."
Just then.
The roar of an engine echoed from the sky.
All the lights focused on the center of the stage.
Iron Man, Tony Stark, was about to make his entrance.
But Johnny knew.
The protagonist tonight was definitely not that guy in the tin can.
It was him.
And... that Russian brute about to charge out from backstage, wielding electric whips.
"The show is starting."
Johnny took a sip of champagne, a glimmer of golden light flashing in the depths of his eyes.
Chapter 66: How Could My Aesthetics Compare to That Tin Can?
On the main stage of the Stark Expo, the lights were as bright as day.
Accompanied by the rousing rock music of AC/DC, a figure in flashy red and gold armor descended from the sky.
"Boom!"
Iron Man landed, kneeling on one knee, striking that classic superhero pose.
Behind him, a group of bikini-clad Ironettes were twisting wildly to the music, drawing screams and cheers from the countless audience members below.
"That's Tony Stark."
In the VIP box, Johnny held a glass of champagne, a playful smile hanging on the corner of his mouth.
He turned his head and glanced at the beautiful women sitting beside him.
"Looks very glamorous, doesn't it?"
"Like a circus Joker."
Emma Frost pushed up her newly fitted glasses, her tone full of disdain.
As the former White Queen and current Chief Secretary of the Osborn Group, she had always looked down on such flamboyant performances.
"And those backup dancers' clothes..."
Felicia curled her lips, a hint of disgust flashing in her cat-like eyes.
"The taste is too poor."
"Compared to the set the boss prepared for me..."
She leaned into Johnny's ear, her voice lowered, carrying a hint of charm that only the two of them could understand.
"It's simply trash."
Johnny smiled and reached out to gently pat Felicia's smooth thigh.
"Of course."
"How could my aesthetics compare to that tin can?"
His gaze passed through the floor-to-ceiling window, not lingering too long on Tony, who was showing off while removing his armor on stage.
Instead, he looked past the crowd toward the backstage area.
There, Pepper Potts was directing the scene with a walkie-talkie, looking anxious.
She was wearing that black backless evening gown.
It had to be said.
This outfit was the perfect choice.
A large expanse of snow-white, delicate skin on her back was exposed to the air, and that deep spinal groove flickered in and out of sight with her movements.
Elegant, intellectual, yet carrying a sort of repressed sexiness.
"Truly a fine scenery."
Johnny took a sip of wine, a golden light flashing in his eyes.
"Too bad, right now she's looking at that man who only causes trouble."
"But soon..."
"In her eyes, there will only be me."
...On stage.
Tony Stark had stepped out of his armor, wearing an expensive custom suit, enjoying the cheers of the entire audience.
"I didn't say World peace is because of me, although it's the truth..."
He spread his arms, his narcissistic appearance making one want to step up and give him a punch.
Just then.
Another "Joker" appeared.
Justin Hammer.
The current CEO of Hammer Industries, who was actually a lackey working under Johnny, danced onto the stage with those magical dance steps, looking ridiculous.
"Ladies and gentlemen!"
Hammer held the microphone, his face filled with that hypocritical fake smile.
He was actually very panicky.
Because he knew what was about to happen.
It was the script arranged for him by his new boss, Johnny Gilda.
"Stark is indeed very strong, but he is only one man!"
"And we at Hammer Industries are committed to providing mass-produced iron soldiers for the United States!"
With his gesture.
The curtain behind the stage slowly pulled open.
Dozens of iron drones in various liveries were lined up neatly there.
The Army, Navy, and Air Force, plus the Marine Corps.
It was a magnificent sight.
"What kind of junk is this?"
Tony frowned, looking at those drones that clearly had shadows of Stark technology, feeling a surge of displeasure in his heart.
"Hammer, which scrap yard did you pick this trash up from?"
"Trash?"
Hammer wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, cursing in his heart: You'll know if it's trash in a moment!
"And one more special guest!"
Hammer quickly changed the subject.
"Our War Machine—Colonel James Rhodes!"
Rhodes, wearing a modified Mark 2, rose from the elevator; it was the "War Machine" that had been outfitted with a bunch of heavy weapons by Hammer Industries.
"Looking quite intimidating."
In the box, Gwen peeled a grape and fed it into Johnny's mouth, commenting.
"But compared to my suit, it's too clunky."
"Of course."
Johnny chewed the grape, his eyes narrowing slightly.
Time was about up.
"The good show is about to begin."
The moment Johnny's voice fell.
The iron soldiers on stage, who were originally stationary, suddenly turned their heads in unison.
Red electronic eyes lit up instantly, emitting a heart-palpitating hum.
"What's going on?"
Tony froze for a moment, and before he could react.
"Clack, clack, clack—!"
All the iron soldiers raised their weapons at the same time.
To be precise, all the muzzles were pointed at Tony Stark standing in the center of the stage!
Even Rhodes's War Machine uncontrollably raised its Gatling gun.
"Tony! Run! The system's been hacked!"
Rhodes's terrified voice spread through the venue via the speakers.
"Da da da da da—!!!"
The next second.
Tongues of fire spat out!
Countless bullets and miniature missiles poured toward Tony like a rainstorm!
"Fuck!"
Tony let out a strange cry, and regardless of his grace, he directly summoned his armor to cover his body and soared into the sky.
"Boom! Boom! Boom!"
The stage was instantly blown into a pile of ruins.
Hammer had long since seen the bad situation and crawled to the backstage, muttering: "Boss bless me, boss bless me..."
The scene turned into a chaotic mess.
Screams, explosions, and the sound of shattering glass rose one after another.
Those iron soldiers that were originally meant for performance had now completely transformed into killing machines, chasing Tony through the sky.
Stray bullets flew everywhere, and fragments splashed.
"Ah—!"
Backstage, Pepper Potts was knocked to the ground by the blast wave of an explosion.
She looked at this hellish scene before her in terror.
"Tony! Tony!"
She shouted into the walkie-talkie, but only a burst of piercing static came through.
Tony was currently being chased by a dozen Air Force drones and was in a pathetic state, unable to look after her at all.
"Damn it..."
Pepper struggled to get up, but the sharp pain from her ankle made her fall back down.
Just then.
"Thump! Thump! Thump!"
Heavy footsteps sounded.
An Army-type Iron Soldier had turned around at some point.
Those red-glowing electronic eyes were dead-set on Pepper, who was slumped on the ground.
It raised its right arm, which was a dark grenade launcher.
"No..."
Pepper closed her eyes in despair.
The shadow of death instantly enveloped her.
In this moment.
What flashed through her mind was surprisingly not that playboy's face.
But a young face with a wicked smile, full of confidence and dominance.
"If..."
"If only he were here..."
"Whoosh—!"
The sound of the grenade launching rang out.
Pepper could even feel the scorching air wave rushing toward her.
However.
The expected explosion and pain did not come.
Instead... it was a warm, solid embrace filled with a sense of security.
"Boom!!!"
The grenade exploded less than two meters away from Pepper.
But all the Impact waves and shrapnel were blocked outside by an invisible wall.
Not even a single strand of Pepper's hair was harmed.
Pepper opened her eyes tremblingly.
What met her eyes.
Was a face so handsome it was breathtaking.
Johnny Gilda.
He held Pepper's smooth back with one hand, while the other hand was casually tucked into his pants pocket.
A faint golden aura shimmered around his body.
Those shrapnel pieces, enough to shatter concrete, hit the aura as if they had struck a wall of bronze and iron, bouncing off one after another.
"I said it."
Johnny looked down at the startled beauty in his arms.
A gentle yet domineering smile curved at the corner of his mouth.
"I will know how to cherish you better than Tony Stark."
"Look."
"I didn't break my word, did I?"
Pepper stared at him blankly.
Her heart seemed to stop beating at this moment, and then it hammered against her chest at an unprecedented frequency.
The background was a sky full of fire and explosions.
And this man.
Was like a God of War walking out of a myth, descending from the sky to block all calamities for her.
This intense sense of Impact.
Instantly shattered the last line of defense in her heart, named "reason" and "loyalty."
"Johnny..."
Pepper's voice was trembling, and tears burst from her eyes.
"It's all right now."
Johnny's large hand gently stroked her trembling back, his fingertips sliding over that deep spinal groove.
That delicate touch gave him a secret thrill.
"This dress really suits you."
"Especially..."
"When you're in my arms."
Pepper's face flushed instantly; even at such a life-and-death moment, she was still made weak all over by this explicit sweet talk.
"Roar—!"
The Iron Soldier that hadn't succeeded seemed to be enraged.
It raised its weapon again, preparing for a second round of fire.
"Truly a piece of scrap metal that doesn't understand romance."
Johnny frowned, a hint of impatience flashing in his eyes.
He didn't let go of Pepper, still maintaining that princess-carry pose.
He just slowly raised his right hand.
His index finger extended.
"Beat it."
A golden light flashed at his fingertip.
"Dodonpa!"
"Whoosh—!"
An extremely thin golden beam of light instantly pierced through the air.
Without any obstruction.
It directly pierced through the Iron Soldier's hardest chest armor!
"Boom!"
The reactor inside the Iron Soldier was detonated, instantly turning into a brilliant fireball.
An instant kill!
Pepper watched this scene dumbfounded.
She knew Johnny was strong, but seeing him hold her and casually blow up a War Machine with a single finger.
This visual Impact was a hundred times more shocking than Iron Man!
"This... what is this?"
"A little trick."
Johnny smiled and didn't explain much.
He glanced around.
More and more iron soldiers were gathering toward them.
Clearly, Ivan Vanko had seen Johnny take action from the backstage and was controlling these tin cans to "add to the fun" for the boss.
"It seems tonight's performance isn't over yet."
Johnny tightened his hold on Pepper.
"Hold me tight."
"I'll take you to a safe place."
"And by the way..."
"Let you see what true power is."
Before his voice even faded.
Johnny kicked off the ground.
"Boom!"
The ground shattered.
He soared into the sky like a Rocket, directly crashing through the dome of the expo pavilion!
He flew to a height of a hundred meters.
The night wind howled.
Pepper hugged Johnny's neck tightly, looking at the battlefield below that had become small; she was both afraid and excited.
"Look over there."
Johnny pointed to the air not far away.
Tony was being besieged by dozens of drones like a headless fly, in a wretched state.
From time to time, he had to rely on Rhodes to save him.
"This is the superhero you've always trusted?"
Johnny's voice reached Pepper's ears clearly through the wind.
"If he can't even protect himself, how can he protect you?"
Pepper looked at the red figure struggling in the air, a surge of indescribable disappointment in her heart.
Yes.
It was like this every time.
Every time, she had to clean up the mess; every time, she had to live in fear.
And now... the one truly protecting her was this man she once viewed as a "barbarian."
"Johnny..."
Pepper buried her head in Johnny's chest, listening to that powerful heartbeat.
"Don't say anymore..."
"Fine, let's not talk about him."
Johnny's lips curled slightly.
Since her mindset had already collapsed, he would add more fuel to the fire.
"Then let me show you..."
"How I clean up this trash."
Johnny hovered in the air.
He slowly raised his right hand.
On his wrist, the yellow Mind Stone suddenly lit up!
"Since we're playing, let's play big."
"Ki Disc—!"
"Multi-Shadow Clone version!"
"Buzz, buzz, buzz—!"
In an instant.
Dozens of golden discs appeared around Johnny.
They rotated at high speed, their edges emitting a heart-palpitating cutting force.
With the energy boost from the Mind Stone, these Ki Discs even had an auto-tracking function!
"Go!"
Johnny waved his palm.
Dozens of golden lights fell like a meteor shower!
Piercing through the night sky!
"Shink, shink, shink—!"
At this moment.
Over the entire Stark Expo, it seemed as if a golden rain of light was falling.
Those iron soldiers that were chasing Tony.
Didn't even have a chance to react.
They were instantly sliced in half by these terrifying light discs!
The cuts were smooth, and there wasn't even time for an explosion to occur!
In just the blink of an eye.
The dozens of drones that were originally flying all over the sky.
All turned into scrap metal, falling from the sky like dumplings!
"Rumble—!"
A series of fireballs rose on the ground.
But these fireballs were the grandest fireworks Johnny was giving to Pepper.
"My God..."
Tony, who had just escaped from the encirclement, hovered in mid-air and flipped open his faceplate.
Looking at this shocking scene, his mouth was wide enough to fit a burger.
"Is... is this magic?!"
Meanwhile.
Johnny was holding Pepper, slowly descending onto the top of the highest tower.
The background was a sky full of firelight and falling wreckage.
He was like an emperor reigning over the World.
"Do you like these fireworks?"
Johnny looked at the completely dazed Pepper in his arms.
"These were prepared for you."
Pepper looked at him, her eyes misty, as if her soul had been sucked into those deep eyes.
"I like them..."
She murmured to herself.
[Ding!]
[Detected that the target Pepper Potts's favorability toward the host has broken through the critical point!]
[Current status: Shocked, worshipful, completely shaken.]
[Congratulations to the host for achieving the achievement: NTRing Iron Man in person!]
[Reward obtained: Full set of Arc Reactor technology (optimized version)!]
[Extra reward obtained: Favorability +30 (Deeply in love)!]
[System Hint: If you don't kiss her now, when will you?]
Johnny laughed.
He never let the system down.
"Since you like them."
"Then give me a little reward."
Johnny lowered his head.
Against the backdrop of the fire-filled sky.
Under the shocked, staggered, and heartbroken gaze of Tony Stark not far away.
He kissed Pepper's red lips fiercely.
"Mmm..."
This time.
Pepper did not push him away.
Her hands tightly encircled Johnny's neck.
In this chaotic night.
In this home field of Iron Man.
Johnny Gilda.
Was the only protagonist.