Chapter 6: Has the Plot Been Altered?
Seeing such news, Clark didn't have much of a reaction. In his view, it wasn't very strange for a playboy to get carried away in the moment and do these absurd things.
Unlike Clark...
"Wait, this is way too early for Iron Man to pass on the mantle."
Su Cheng in his mind was extremely surprised at this moment. He wasn't someone like Clark who was unaware of the plot.
Seeing the scene of him angrily confronting the senator, he understood that they should currently be in the Iron Man 2 period.
But in his memory, Tony should have experienced Whiplash's attack and decided to wholeheartedly solve his palladium poisoning before handing the CEO position to Pepper. What's going on?
Could it be that his intervention indirectly changed the plot?
If so, would Whiplash also come looking for him ahead of schedule? Would his target change?
The altered plot and Hydra's unclear attitude gave Su Cheng a headache. He had to rethink a new strategy.
...
Siberia.
Outside, a blizzard raged.
The screen of an old, small TV flickered in the dim basement.
"I am a man of the people. I am willing to do anything for this country."
The voice echoed continuously in the narrow basement. On the screen was Tony giving an interview, looking full of ambition and arrogance.
Sizzle! Sizzle!
Nearby, a pile of parts lay scattered. A man was holding a mechanical sphere, occasionally making adjustments.
The man was bare-chested, revealing a muscular torso covered in fierce tattoos. His hair was a mess, and he had a toothpick in his mouth. It was Ivan Vanko, the antagonist from Iron Man 2.
"My technology cannot be replicated by anyone in the world. I am the only one."
Tony's voice continued.
Hearing Tony's words from the interview behind him, Ivanbit down on his toothpick twice and let out a disdainful snort.
The only one? That line could only fool the idiots he's already tricked.
If Howard Stark hadn't monopolized the research results he developed jointly with his father, how would this Tony Stark have such superior conditions? Tony Stark and his father Howard Stark are nothing but a bunch of frauds.
At the same time...
Click.
The mechanical sphere was fully assembled. A bright white light ignited from its center.
If Tony were here, he would instantly recognize that sphere as his most prized creation: the Miniature Arc Reactor.
Seeing his masterpiece, Ivan nodded in satisfaction. His mind seemed to conjure images of his successful revenge and Tony Stark's death.
He turned around holding the arc reactor. Its glow illuminated the wall behind him.
Covering that wall were numerous photos and pictures cut from newspapers. A closer look revealed they were all about Tony Stark, from various periods, clearly collected over a long time.
The most recently added pictures at the top included Iron Man Tony Stark, his father Howard Stark, and even Pepper, who had just taken over as CEO of Stark Industries.
The difference was that a bright red 'X' was now drawn over Howard Stark's photo.
Ivan silently surveyed the wall, then suddenly picked up a red marker from the table and drew a vivid red 'X' over Pepper's photo.
...
On the ruins of the military base destroyed by Superman.
Nick Fury was carefully examining the wreckage of a tank before him, occasionally running his fingers over the scorch marks.
"Boss, as you instructed, the detection team ran the tests a few more times. They say the results are conclusive: it's the energy signature of Superman's Cyclops."
An agent walked up behind Nick Fury, reporting with a serious expression.
Hearing this, Nick Fury fell silent for a moment. He looked again at the tank wreckage in front of him, his brow furrowed, and muttered to himself.
"Was it really done by Superman?"
Although all evidence pointed to Superman, Fury still had a nagging feeling something was off, as if this was all part of a grand conspiracy.
It was now confirmed beyond doubt that Superman was responsible for everything here, but his motive for doing so remained debatable.
After all, Superman had never before committed such a heinous act as slaughtering an entire military base, which made this incident particularly suspicious.
Could this military base be different from others in some way?
Thinking this, Nick Fury's expression grew uneasy. He quickly walked over to a video communicator nearby and initiated a call.
...
Capitol Building.
Inside a conference room.
Several people were discussing matters.
"Have the results come in, Agent Coulson?"
The speaker was a man wearing glasses, with an authoritative air about him. It was the current director of S.H.I.E.L.D., Alexander Pierce.
"Based on the current evidence, it can be confirmed that Superman caused all of this."
Coulson said with a serious expression, his arms folded in front of him.
"If that's the case, then dealing with the Superman issue needs to be put on the agenda."
Hearing this, Pierce's eyes shifted thoughtfully. He turned and signaled towards the senator's direction.
Senator Stern, catching Pierce's glance, immediately understood.
"Hmm, correct. If such a dangerous individual is left unchecked, the safety of our nation's people will be compromised. Therefore, I propose we make every effort to eliminate Superman as an unstable factor."
He immediately slammed the table and stood up, speaking very passionately.
What others didn't know was that both men were spies planted by Hydra within the government agencies. Their stance on Superman was identical.
Within Hydra, there were traditionally only two attitudes towards powerful assets like Superman.
Either submit to their control and serve them, or face death as the only other outcome.
This development caught Coulson off guard. His brow furrowed deeply, but bound by his position, he refrained from voicing any objection.
Pierce nodded and was about to make the final decision when the communication device in the congressional hall rang.
Ding!!!
The communication device connected, and Nick Fury's holographic image appeared.
"Gentlemen, I wonder how your discussions regarding Superman are proceeding?"
Nick Fury scanned the room and got straight to the point.
"It's now largely confirmed to be Superman. We've decided to mobilize and deploy personnel to eliminate Supermanas an unstable factor."
Pierce stated first. After speaking, he subtly signaled to the senator.
Senator Stern, receiving the cue, nodded in support of Pierce's opinion.
"With all due respect, Mr. Pierce, that seems somewhat rash."
Nick Fury shook his head and then explained.
"Through my investigation, I've uncovered some previously unnoticed details."
"The most important among them is: why did Supermanspecifically choose this military camp to attack, and not others? Remember, he has never engaged in this kind of behavior before."
"Therefore, I judge that Superman must have attacked because he discovered something different about this base. Before we investigate this thoroughly, we cannot directly launch an offensive against Superman."
Chapter 7: Undercurrents at the Meeting
Hearing this, Director Pierce's brow twitched, but he quickly composed himself. No one noticed, though the flicker in his eyes betrayed the turmoil in his heart.
Others didn't know what was special about that base, but he knew all too well.
Because that base had already been completely infiltrated by Hydra.
After hearing Nick Fury's words, Superman's actions were indeed thought-provoking; was he really giving Hydra a warning?
Thoughts raced through Pierce's mind as he secretly reconsidered his strategy.
Just then.
The senator, unaware that the military camp outside was staffed by Hydra's own men, slammed his hand on the table and loudly objected.
"No, a dangerous element like Superman cannot be allowed to remain for even a moment. I strongly suggest we eliminate him as soon as possible."
"What do you think, Director Pierce?"
After speaking, Senator Stern looked toward Pierce. He was speaking according to Pierce's prior instructions, so in his view, Pierce would never object.
"Recently, through our efforts, Rogers has awakened."
Pierce didn't answer directly, instead bringing up Captain America, before changing the subject.
"We have all witnessed Superman's power; a single person can destroy a military camp. The price we would have to pay to deal with such a powerhouse is unimaginable."
"So I believe Fury is right. We shouldn't target him directly; we can have Rogers conduct a private investigation first."
After saying this, Pierce signaled Senator Stern with his eyes, prompting him to support his words.
Nick Fury clearly breathed a sigh of relief. He had always been reluctant to use forceful methods to coerce people; being able to resolve it this way was something he naturally agreed with completely.
On the other side, Stern was now completely stunned, unable to say a word.
He never expected his own man, Pierce, to suddenly change sides, and he had no idea how to respond.
However, Hydra's hierarchy was very strict; as Pierce was his superior, he had no right to object.
Thinking of this, he adjusted his expression, nodded, and said.
"In that case, let's listen to Director Pierce."
His face showed no trace of the overbearing manner with which he had just been denouncing Superman's crimes.
Seeing the matter resolved, Nick Fury said his goodbyes and hung up the communicator, while Pierce also led Coulson away.
...
At the entrance of the Capitol Building.
Agent Sitwell was leading a Black man dressed in a colonel's uniform forward.
"What exactly does Senator Stern want with me?"
The Black colonel asked with some confusion.
"I'm not sure either, you'll find out in a moment, Colonel Rhodes."
Agent Sitwell shook his head and continued leading Rhodes forward.
Before long, Rhodes was brought to the door of the conference room, and Agent Sitwell opened the door and entered.
"Oh, Colonel Rhodes, looking sharp indeed! Come over here."
As soon as he entered, Rhodes saw Stern in the main seat, waving enthusiastically.
"Senator, may I ask what the matter is?"
Rhodes stepped forward, gave a military salute, and asked.
The senator nodded and said.
"Colonel Rhodes, we know you are the most familiar with Mr. Tony Stark."
"So there is a mission for you: take back Stark's Iron Man Suit and dedicate it to the country to help us better maintain world peace."
He had just received instructions from Hydra Headquartersto obtain the Iron Man Suit as soon as possible, so he immediately thought of Rhodes, who had a close personal relationship with Tony.
"Huh?"
Rhodes was stunned for a moment, then showed a troubled expression and said.
"While Tony and I have some history, I know his temper. Asking for his Iron Man Suit is definitely not going to work."
"I cannot complete this mission."
The rejected senator's expression darkened slightly, and he glanced at Sitwell.
Sitwell, also a Hydra spy, understood the meaning and spoke up.
"Our casualty rates during combat and missions have increased in recent years. The emergence of the Iron Man Suit is undoubtedly an excellent opportunity; with it, our casualty rate will surely drop significantly."
Seeing a hint of hesitation on Rhodes's face, Stern struck while the iron was hot and persuaded him.
"I know this is difficult, but only you are most likely to succeed. Moreover, this is a great deed for the country and the people. I hope that as a soldier of the nation, you will consider it seriously."
At these words, Rhodes hesitated. If it were for their personal gain, Rhodes would have refused without hesitation, but when it came to the country and the people, the uniform he wore made him waver.
He thought for a moment and said reluctantly.
"Then I'll give it a try, but I can't guarantee success."
The senator nodded and said nothing; he also knew Tony Stark's foul temper and didn't hold much hope himself.
Just then, there was more movement at the door.
...
Rhodes, the senator, and the others looked over at the sound and saw a somewhat thin man wearing glasses, who looked rather cunning, walking toward them.
"Quickly, Mr. Justin Hammer, our weapons expert, you've finally arrived."
The senator waved in welcome, his attitude very warm.
Compared to an unruly genius like Iron Man, an easily controlled arms dealer like Hammer was much more to Hydra's liking.
Rhodes was somewhat surprised to see Hammer, not knowing what his purpose for being here was.
"Oh, Colonel Rhodes, Senator, hello to you both."
Hammer gave a somewhat flamboyant greeting as he entered, then asked the senator with some confusion.
"May I ask why you've called me here?"
Seeing Hammer's attitude, the senator was even more satisfied and said straightforwardly.
"I've called you here primarily to ask how the research progress on the Iron Man Suit is going."
Hearing this, Hammer couldn't help but straighten his back, adjusted the sides of his suit jacket, and then said quite proudly.
"The progress can be described as extremely rapid."
"Although we haven't reached the point of a man-sized Iron Man Suit like Stark's, we can already manufacture remote-controlled unmanned combat armor."
"However, we still lack the most critical miniature nuclear reactor technology, which we won't be able to solve quickly."
"I can guarantee that once we have the miniature nuclear reactor technology, our Hammer Tech remote-controlled armor will be far more powerful than Stark's Iron Man Suit."
Hearing this, the senator and those around him exchanged glances and nodded.
Then the few of them whispered together to discuss, and finally, they all turned their gaze toward Rhodes.
Seeing everyone looking at Rhodes, Hammer also couldn't help but look at him, his eyes filled with confusion.
He didn't know why everyone was looking at Rhodes; could looking at Rhodes solve the reactor problem?
Rhodes had a faint, bad premonition. He looked left and right, only to find to his despair that they were indeed all looking at him.
Chapter 8: Another Person Who Can Develop a Miniature Arc Reactor?
"Colonel Rhodes, you heard what Mr. Hammer said."
The Senator looked at Rhodes meaningfully and then stated his purpose.
"In that case, even if we don't get the Iron Man Suit, we must obtain the Miniature Arc Reactor technology. We have to get one of the two."
Upon hearing this, Rhodes gave a bitter smile. As he expected, the matter of the reactor had fallen on him.
"Alright, I'll do my best."
Rhodes nodded helplessly.
Knowing that if he refused, the Senator would pressure him using the country and the people, he had no way to say no.
He could already imagine Tony mocking him when he got there.
Seeing Rhodes nod, the Senator nodded with satisfaction and adjourned the meeting.
Although Hammer didn't believe Rhodes could get it, since the Senator had spoken, he didn't dare to argue and had to leave.
...
On the way home.
Hammer's phone rang in his pocket. He picked it up and was stunned on the spot.
"Siberia?"
He looked at the caller ID with a face full of questions. He didn't recall having any friends in Siberia; could this be a wrong number?
Thinking it was a mistake, he hung up the phone.
But after a moment, the phone rang again, still from Siberia.
This made him certain the call was for him, and he hesitantly answered it.
"Hello?"
Hammer asked tentatively.
"Justin Hammer, the CEO of Hammer Industries, right?"
Hammer struggled for a while to understand the heavily accented English from the other side. At the same time, he was puzzled; he had never heard this voice before.
Seeing no response for a while, the person on the other end continued.
"Do you want reactor technology like Stark's?"
Hearing this, Hammer's expression changed, and he asked.
"Who are you? What do you mean?"
As if expecting Hammer's reaction, the person chuckled and continued.
"Who I am isn't important. All you need to know is that I can provide you with reactor technology and that we share a common enemy: Tony Stark."
"Stark's reactor technology?"
Hammer's eyes flickered. Although he didn't fully believe it, he still asked.
"Since you say so, what do you need from me? Don't tell me you're just here for charity."
"Haha, it seems you're not as stupid as I thought. We'll talk about the rest later; for now, I just need you to help me smuggle myself over."
Ivan laughed darkly on the other end and stated his request.
"Recently, security has been very tight. I can only provide you with some useful information; whether you can successfully smuggle yourself in will depend on your own ability."
Hammer didn't agree immediately.
Although smuggling one person was no problem for a tycoon like him, and he wouldn't lose anything even if Ivanwas lying, he wanted to see if Ivan actually had the skills. If he couldn't even handle this, then developing a Miniature Arc Reactor would be out of the question.
"Heh, fine. Just wait for me then."
Ivan also anticipated Hammer's intent, but he showed no emotional fluctuation and agreed to the proposal.
...
A few nights later, at the harbor.
Hammer stood in front of a luxury car with several of his bodyguards.
"What time is it? Why hasn't the ship arrived yet?"
Hammer stood with his hands on his hips, looking anxious, checking his watch every now and then.
Splash!!!
As he spoke, the sound of a ship moving reached them.
Hammer looked over and saw a cargo ship entering the harbor.
"That's the one."
Seeing the ship's number clearly, Hammer clapped his hands in excitement. This was the cargo ship Ivan was smuggling himself on.
Thinking that he would soon obtain the Miniature Arc Reactor, Hammer was thrilled and couldn't stop rubbing his hands together.
The ship docked, and the workers began unloading, but Ivan was nowhere to be seen.
"There are probably too many people right now, making it hard to come out. Let's wait a bit."
Hammer thought to himself.
After waiting for a while, Ivan still hadn't appeared.
"Why hasn't he appeared yet? Did he fail?"
Hammer was getting anxious. He took out a cigar and took a deep drag.
Finally, the cargo was unloaded, all the workers left, and the ship's lights were turned off. The surroundings suddenly went dark.
Still, Ivan did not appear.
Thud!!!
"I'm such a fool for actually believing that Siberian savage!!"
Hammer slammed the cigar onto the ground. He felt he must have been tricked; there was no one in this world who could replicate the Miniature Arc Reactor.
Just then, a faint light suddenly appeared behind Hammer.
Sensing something strange, Hammer turned around and saw a man in work clothes carrying a flashlight walking toward them.
"Who is it? Don't you know I'm the CEO of Hammer Industries? Put that flashlight down."
The light was so bright that Hammer could barely keep his eyes open. He shielded his eyes with his hand and spoke.
"A flashlight? Heh, Mr. Hammer sure knows how to joke."
The familiar Russian accent made Hammer's ears perk up. Enduring the discomfort, he opened his eyes to look.
He saw a burly man in work clothes with messy hair, a rough, fleshy face, and a toothpick in his mouth.
And in his hand, it wasn't a flashlight at all, but...
"A Miniature Arc Reactor!!!"
Hammer cried out in surprise.
...
Hammer stared intently at the reactor before him and swallowed hard.
The thing he had dreamed of was right in front of him, and he still found it hard to believe.
Without a word, he reached out to grab the reactor, but halfway there, his hand was slapped away by a pair of large, powerful hands.
"Well? Do you believe I can make a Miniature Arc Reactornow?"
The familiar Russian accent came again.
Hammer shook his aching hand and looked at the owner of the voice.
Ivan arrogantly swung the reactor in his hand, refusing to give it to Hammer, as if retaliating for Hammer's previous lack of trust.
"Of course I believe you, my great inventor! Now, we should discuss our cooperation."
Hammer's face was covered in smiles. Now that he knew Ivan had the ability to build the reactor, he wouldn't dare offend this future God of Wealth of his.
He knew that while the reactor in front of him could only power one machine, with Ivan's technology, thousands of reactors could be built.
Ivan nodded and signaled Hammer to continue.
"What I need is your technology. I wonder what you need me to provide?"
Hammer got straight to the point. Being a businessman, he clearly preferred profit over emotion as the bond of their connection.
"Materials, tools, and information on Tony Stark."
"Just give me these, and I can give you the reactors you need."
Ivan stated his requirements.
"That's it?"
"That's almost too simple."
Hammer shrugged nonchalantly, then extended his right hand toward Ivan and said:
"Welcome to Hammer Industries, my great inventor."
Ivan just nodded, ignoring Hammer's hand.
Hammer could only give an awkward smile and then led Ivan away from the harbor.
Chapter 9: Ivan's Formidable Strength
A few days later, at the headquarters of Hammer Industries.
Ivan, his clothes stained with oil, was in the workshop, meticulously modifying his mechanical whip.
"Ivan, my friend, how are our remote-controlled suits coming along?"
Hammer's voice drifted in from a distance before he even arrived.
Hearing the voice, Ivan looked up and saw Hammerrunning toward him excitedly.
"I can't wait to see my lovely little suits!!"
Hammer ran over in high spirits, but his face fell the moment he saw Ivan modifying the mechanical whip, and he complained.
"Why are you working on that damn whip again? Instead of wasting time on that, you should be finishing the suits."
Seeing Ivan's cold gaze, Hammer's expression froze. Realizing that the skilled Ivan before him was the real boss and someone he couldn't afford to offend, he quickly waved his hand in apology.
"I'm not saying you can't work on that, just that it would be better if we finished the main task first."
Hearing this, Ivan ignored Hammer, walked over to a nearby switch, and pressed a button.
Hum!!!
A bright light appeared on the chest of the first suit.
Then another, and another, one by one. Before long, every suit in the entire workshop was lit up.
The intense light shone on Hammer's face, illuminating his stunned expression. He swallowed hard in disbelief and asked.
"You've finished all of these?"
He hadn't expected that a goal Hammer Industriescouldn't achieve in a long time would be completed by Ivanin just a few days.
Ivan leaned against one of the suits. Without answering, he pressed another button. Guided by the command, the surrounding suits simultaneously gave Hammer a military salute, answering his doubt.
Seeing Hammer's satisfied expression, Ivan felt a sense of relief. Hammer's constant pestering over the last few days had been incredibly annoying, and it seemed he would finally shut up.
"Great, simply great! Now let's see how Stark tries to act arrogant."
Hammer snapped out of his shock and began touching the suits here and there, looking at them with obsession as if they were rare treasures.
In this way, he had successfully completed the Senator's mission. With such speed, he was bound to receive many rewards.
He could almost see the shocked look on Stark's face upon seeing the reactor, and he couldn't help but feel excited.
Then he noticed Ivan returning to the workbench to work on his mechanical whip again, and he couldn't help but frown.
"Ivan, my friend, why are you still working on that junk? With these suits, why would we need anything else?"
"Compared to the suits, that thing of yours is like a firefly next to the bright moon. There's simply no comparison."
Hammer was somewhat dismissive. In his view, while Ivanwas skilled and powerful, he wasn't very bright.
Working on those things when they had these powerful suits was like throwing away a watermelon to pick up a sesame seed.
"I provide the technology, you provide the materials. That was the deal. I've finished my task; what I do now is none of your business."
Ivan snapped back at Hammer, then continued with a question.
"You haven't fulfilled my other request yet. When are you going to give me information on Tony Stark?"
Hearing this, Hammer smiled and replied.
"With the capabilities of Hammer Industries, getting information on Stark is naturally a breeze."
"He's currently at his seaside villa, likely researching new suits."
"But don't be in such a hurry."
Seeing Ivan stand up excitedly, he stopped him. Noticing the anger and confusion in Ivan's eyes, he looked him up and down, then sneered.
"It's not that I look down on you, but Stark's seaside villa is heavily guarded with comprehensive weapon deployments. If you go there with just that one whip, you'll probably be turned into a sieve before you even reach the front door."
At those words, Ivan sat back down. He wasn't a fool and knew Hammer was right. With his current equipment, killing Tony Stark would undoubtedly be as difficult as reaching the heavens.
But since Hammer said this, he surely didn't come just to mock him; there had to be another way.
With this in mind, Ivan looked at Hammer with an inquiring gaze.
"Oh, it seems you understand, my friend. How could I just watch you go to your death? I'm quite fond of the technology in that head of yours."
"Since a direct approach with Stark won't work, why don't we change targets?"
"For example... her."
As Hammer spoke, he pulled out a tablet and brought up a photo of Pepper. Tianlai Novel Network.
"Miss Potts, Stark's beloved girlfriend. Not long ago, Tonyeven transferred his position as CEO to her. One can see how much he cares for her."
"If Miss Potts were in danger, I'm sure Stark wouldn't just stand by and watch, right?"
Hearing this, Ivan considered the plan's feasibility and couldn't help but nod. He had to admit that while this method was quite sinister, it was undoubtedly the most practical.
"Potts, huh?"
Ivan took the tablet, his eyes cold as he looked at the smiling Pepper on the screen.
...
Early morning.
The Daily Planet editorial department.
People were coming and going inside the editorial department, which looked very busy.
Clark held a cup of coffee and sat at his desk, organizing the materials he needed to write about today.
"This is..."
As he flipped through, a piece of news caught Clark's eye.
It stated that last night, a dockworker was brutally murdered at the pier. The victim's naked body was recovered this morning. Based on the body's characteristics, the police initially suspected the cause of death was a snapped neck.
Seeing the photo of the deceased, Clark merely frowned and didn't pay it much mind.
Although he was Superman, he didn't have to intervene in every single crime. Unless it was a very serious crime, even he would be overwhelmed.
This crime looked like a common murder case, and the police weren't useless; it wouldn't be hard for them to find the killer.
But unlike Clark...
"This scene looks a bit familiar. It seems like in the original plot, Whiplash emerged from the pier after killing a dockworker."
Su Cheng frowned as he saw the report, a bad premonition rising in his heart.
Unlike Clark, having seen the original plot, he obviously didn't think this was just an ordinary murder case. At this time and in this place, it was hard for him not to overthink it.
"It's very likely that Whiplash was influenced by something and arrived early."
Su Cheng couldn't help but become vigilant. According to the original setting, Whiplash's target should be Iron Man, Tony.
In the original story, the attack should have taken place at a racetrack. However, because Tony had stepped down early for Pepper and wasn't out carousing, Su Cheng wasn't sure how Whiplash would attack Tony now.
Chapter 10: Pepper Under Attack
"No, I have to go out and see."
Su Cheng felt a faint sense of unease, but he had no way to act physically. He immediately used his power as the inner persona to transmit a psychological suggestion to Clark's mind, urging him to go out and investigate.
"Hmm?"
Clark, who had intended to flip past and check other news, felt a sudden throb in his heart. He flipped back and began to read carefully again.
"Killed by having their neck snapped directly... this shows the murderer's skills are out of the ordinary. This doesn't look like a common homicide."
Checking it again, Clark sensed something was wrong based on his experience as a reporter. However, the information currently provided by the police was too sparse for him to understand the situation clearly.
Thinking of this, Clark decided to go to the scene to inspect it carefully and take some photos.
"Lois, there's something off about this news. I'm going to the scene to investigate."
Clark picked up his camera and spoke to Lois before he left.
"Alright, Clark. Be careful on the road."
It was perfectly normal for a reporter to go to a scene to gather first-hand information, so Lois nodded in agreement.
...
The street.
A pitch-black sedan was waiting for the red light to end.
Inside the car.
"Happy, what has Tony been up to lately? I haven't seen him in a long time. There's a whole mess of things at the company—doesn't he care at all?"
Pepper checked today's schedule and rubbed her neck tiredly.
"Ms. Potts, he's been staying at the Seaside Villa all day lately, seemingly adjusting a new set of armor."
The light turned green. Happy Hogan started the car while turning his head to speak to Pepper.
"Again. He's always researching those things. There's clearly no danger, yet he always acts with such urgency, as if death is at his doorstep."
Pepper rubbed her brow with a headache and sighed.
She understood Tony less and less lately. His technology was already unique in the world, yet he still constantly immersed himself in it.
Just then.
A man not far ahead walked straight through the red light, drawing a chorus of car horns.
"Where did this guy come from? With all these cars coming and going, isn't he afraid of getting hit?"
Happy Hogan grumbled speechlessly. Since the red light had delayed them, he immediately shifted gears and accelerated, preparing to pass through this section quickly.
The next second.
The man who had run the red light lunged forward and blocked the path of the car.
Happy's expression changed, and he slammed on the brakes.
"Ah!!!"
It happened too suddenly. Pepper couldn't react in time, and her head hit the back of the front seat.
"Ms. Potts!!! Are you alright?"
Happy quickly unbuckled his seatbelt and turned around, anxiously checking on Pepper's condition.
"I'm fine. What happened? Why the sudden stop?"
Pepper rubbed her head with one hand and waved the other to show she was okay.
"It's that lunatic in front. He blocked our car for no reason. If I hadn't braked in time, he'd be mincemeat by now."
Speaking of this, Happy looked angry and pointed at the man standing in front of their car.
Pepper looked out and saw a man with messy hair and a burly build looking at her with a sinister smile, like a starving beast that had found its prey.
That expression was clearly aimed at her. Pepper secretly became alert.
"Hey! This isn't a crosswalk! Get out of the way!"
Happy didn't hesitate. He leaned out of the window while honking the horn.
Many people nearby had already been attracted by the scene, pointing and whispering about the man in the middle of the road.
The man in the middle of the road was Ivan. He ignored the chatter around him, gave Pepper a cold, sinister smile, and then swung his hands downward.
Rip!!!
The clothes on Ivan's upper body instantly shredded and scattered. Revealed beneath were powerful muscles covered in menacing tattoos, wrapped in metallic equipment. Two whips appeared in his hands, crackling with flowing electricity.
And on Ivan's chest was a glowing sphere.
"An Arc Reactor?!"
Pepper looked at the reactor on Ivan's chest in disbelief. Her first reaction was that this person had stolen a reactor from Stark Industries, but then she realized she knew Stark Industries' security measures better than anyone; it was impossible for someone to steal such a thing.
Could it be that someone other than Tony had mastered this technology? She couldn't help but wonder how Tonywould react when he heard the news.
Meanwhile, Ivan sneered in front of the car, gripped the whips crackling with electricity, and then lashed out forcefully at the vehicle.
Bang!!!
Sparks flew everywhere!
The car's hood was instantly sliced in two. The edges of the break showed red-hot scorch marks, demonstrating the power of the strike.
"Ah!!!!"
Only then did the surrounding crowd realize the danger and began to scatter in a panic.
"Drive away, Happy! Quickly!"
Inside the car, Pepper's eyes widened in terror, and she frantically slapped the seat to signal Happy.
This car was specially made by Stark Industries using special materials and was incredibly sturdy. Even a body like this was easily shattered; she didn't dare imagine what would happen if it hit a person.
"Damn it!!!"
Happy was also terrified by the strike. Only after being prompted did he react and slam his foot on the gas.
But it was already too late. Ivan's second strike had arrived.
Bang!!!
Sparks flew.
This time was clearly more forceful. The whip's reach covered the entire car, slicing it directly in half from the middle.
"Ah!!!"
Pepper frantically dodged the scorched fissure not far away.
"Happy, we can't just stay here and die. Let's go!"
She wasn't the type to sit and wait for death. She turned around, prepared to call Happy to run.
To her despair, Happy had been knocked unconscious by the deployed airbag and didn't respond at all.
Unwilling to abandon Happy, she tried to drag him out, but with her strength, she couldn't move him.
At the same time, the sound of footsteps approached.
Pepper looked up, and despair instantly filled her eyes.
Ivan had already walked to the side, raising his whip with a cruel grin.
...
A short while ago, at the Seaside Villa.
On a table sat the Stark Expo model Tony had brought back from the company. Next to it was an opened videotape labeled "For my son, Tony."
"Jarvis, turn the power output to maximum."
Wearing goggles, Tony reached out and aimed a laser beam at a dull sphere.
"Yes, sir."
Jarvis complied, and the laser beam in Tony's hand grew several times more intense.
The next second.
Bang!!!
A loud explosion rang out. Tony was sent flying by the blast, and the entire villa instantly went dark.
Cough! Cough!
Tony brushed the debris off himself and coughed twice, then impatiently looked toward the center of the explosion.
There, a shining sphere sat prominently in place.
Chapter 11: Tony and S.H.I.E.L.D. Receive News
"Congratulations, sir. You have discovered a new element."
Jarvis's voice came from the side.
Tony's hands trembled as he picked up the new element, an indescribable joy surging from his heart.
He had fulfilled his father's expectations, he had solved his life-or-death problem. Now, more than anything, he wanted to see Pepper and tell her about this.
Thinking this, he couldn't wait and placed the new element into the reactor.
*Hum!!!*
The reactor flashed with light, operating successfully.
Tony removed the palladium-core reactor and, still trembling slightly, inserted the new reactor into his chest.
*Hum!!!*
After a moment of discomfort, Tony's body recovered perfectly.
"Jarvis, bring out the Mark VI. Let's test the new gear."
The first thing Tony wanted to do after his success was to test the new armor. This was the latest, most powerful armor he had designed earlier, but due to palladium poisoning, he had never been able to use it. Now, he could finally put it to use.
"Received, sir."
Jarvis replied.
Immediately, Tony walked to the side. Under the operation of several mechanical arms, a brand new set of armor was equipped onto his body.
"How's the performance? Bring up the data, Jarvis."
Tony, now wearing the new armor, moved around, feeling extremely pleased.
"Received, sir."
"Energy output stable. No operational impediments detected in the armor."
Jarvis quickly brought up the data.
"Good. Then let's test its power."
As he spoke, Tony aimed the energy beam in his hand at his own expensive villa.
*Hum!!!*
*Boom!!!*
A powerful energy beam shot out, instantly blasting a large hole in the sturdy marble floor, exposing the ground beneath.
Seeing this power, Tony nodded in satisfaction.
"It seems the new element provides more stable energy output than palladium, and the power is even stronger than I estimated. With this, even Superman wouldn't be a match for me."
Just then.
*Woo-woo!!!*
An alarm sounded.
"What's happening, Jarvis?"
Tony frowned. Interrupted in the middle of his joy, he felt displeased.
"Report, sir. An attack signal has been transmitted from Ms. Potts's vehicle."
Jarvis answered truthfully.
"What! Jarvis, open the villa roof. Perfect timing, I've got this new armor and I'm itching to use it."
Tony was extremely tense. He couldn't believe someone dared to attack his Pepper. This had touched a forbidden zone for him.
Without hesitation, he opened the villa roof and flew towards New York.
...
In a secret underground boxing gym.
*Thud!!! Thud!!! Thud!!!*
The sound of fists pounding a sandbag echoed continuously in the empty gym.
Memories kept flooding his mind, intensifying the frustration in Steve's heart. The force behind his punches on the sandbag grew heavier and heavier.
After this period of recovery, the Super Soldier's strength had fully returned. The sandbag groaned under the powerful blows, making sounds of strain.
*THUD!!!!!!*
Rogers delivered a heavy punch. The sandbag finally couldn't take it and flew out, sand scattering everywhere.
"Impressive strength. Not many in S.H.I.E.L.D. could do that, Mr. Rogers."
Coulson's voice came from behind.
Having already noticed the movement, Rogers showed no surprise. He picked up a towel to wipe his sweat while looking back.
In his view was a somewhat flustered Coulson, hands unsure where to place themselves.
Seeing Coulson's reaction, Steve was puzzled. Was there something wrong with him? Why did the agent in front of him seem so nervous?
Under Steve's gaze, Coulson grew even more tense. He swallowed, wiped his sweaty palms on his clothes, then extended a hand and said.
"Hello, the world's first superhero. I'm Agent Coulson. It's an honor to meet you."
With a slightly odd expression, Steve returned the handshake. Then, nodding towards the case Coulson was carrying, he asked.
"What's that?"
"Oh!!!"
Coulson finally remembered the case in his hand and hurriedly handed it over, explaining.
"This is your gear. We've made some modifications, but overall, it's the same."
"Isn't this a bit... outdated?"
Steve opened the case, saw the familiar uniform, and asked somewhat distractedly.
"I think people nowadays need a bit of that old American spirit."
When Coulson said this, his nervousness vanished, replaced by an unprecedented seriousness.
Steve was taken aback for a moment, then nodded in agreement before asking.
"So the next mission is to investigate the Supermansituation?"
Coulson nodded, then took out the gathered intel, preparing to discuss it with Steve.
Just then.
*Beep-beep-beep!!!*
The sound of a communicator rang out.
Coulson saw it was a call from Nick Fury and quickly answered.
"Coulson, put the Superman matter aside for now. Something more urgent. Someone is attacking Ms. Potts, the current CEO of Stark Industries, on Walton Street. Go provide assistance immediately."
Nick Fury's urgent voice came through.
"Received, boss. We're on our way."
Coulson agreed without hesitation.
"Good. Get there fast. Ensure Ms. Potts's safety at all costs."
With that, Nick Fury hung up.
Coulson and Steve exchanged a glance, nodded. Steveswiftly opened the case, changed into the uniform, and headed towards Walton Street with Coulson.
...
A secret S.H.I.E.L.D. base.
In a spacious room, a huge screen flickered, showing footage of Potts being attacked by Whiplash Ivan.
As Ivan's clothes tore open, revealing the equipment inside.
The expressions of everyone present changed.
"A miniature nuclear reactor?"
Nick Fury was somewhat surprised. After all, this was technology proposed by one of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s founders, Howard Stark, and perfected by his son. It should only be possessed by Stark's people in the world. He never expected to see it here, used to attack Stark's CEO.
*I wonder what expression that kid Tony will have when he finds out*, Nick Fury thought to himself.
Below, several agents also had strange expressions, exchanging a series of glances.
They were Hydra agents sent to infiltrate S.H.I.E.L.D.Seeing the technology they coveted appear on an unknown person, used to attack the female CEO of Stark Industries, they were all puzzled by Ivan's motives.
...
In the air.
Tony piloted the armor at full speed towards Walton Street. Even flying at maximum speed, it would still take some time.
"Jarvis, pull up the surveillance feed from Pepper's location."
Tony was anxious, worried that Pepper might already be hurt.
"Received, sir."
Chapter 12: Life and Death Crisis! Hanging by a Thread!
Jarvis quickly projected the surveillance footage onto Tony's mask.
"That's...!!!"
Tony spotted the Miniature Arc Reactor on Ivan's body at a glance, and his expression changed.
He could tell with one look that it was a finished Miniature Arc Reactor, identical to his own technology.
And it didn't look like he had made it; he hadn't expected anyone else in the world to be able to build a Miniature Arc Reactor.
Thinking of this, Tony was filled with doubt.
The technology for the miniature nuclear reactor was invented by his father; no one else in the world should know about it. Where did this man get it?
As for the idea that the other party had researched this technology himself, he didn't believe it.
In this world, besides him and his father, it was impossible for a second person to have researched this technology; he had that much confidence.
Meanwhile, in the footage, Ivan raised the electric whip in his hand and sliced the hood of the car Pepper was in in half with a single strike.
"Such power!!!"
Tony's eye twitched and his heart tightened. That car was made of special materials, yet it was cut through just like that. He couldn't help but worry for Pepper's safety.
Just then, the footage showed Happy Hogan reacting and slamming on the gas.
"Good job, Happy."
Seeing this, Tony's spirits lifted. Happy was his long-time driver, and his response to this situation was correct. Given the speed and durability of his own car, it shouldn't be hard to escape.
The next second.
In the footage, Whiplash struck with his whip, and the entire car was split in two, with countless sparks and fragments flying everywhere.
"Pepper!!!!"
Tony's mind went blank as he frantically searched for Pepper. He only breathed a sigh of relief when he saw she wasn't hurt.
"There's still a chance. As long as they use the car's body as cover, Pepper and Happy still have a chance to escape."
Tony comforted himself.
But just then, he noticed Happy had been knocked unconscious by the airbag. Pepper didn't run away immediately in order to save him, and Ivan was already approaching her. His heart tightened instantly.
Meanwhile, Walton Street appeared ahead.
Tony immediately shut off the surveillance footage and charged toward Pepper at full speed.
...
Not far from the street where Pepper was.
Due to the panicked crowd and the proximity of Walton Street, Steve and Coulson chose to proceed on foot rather than drive.
Steve ran forward, but because the surrounding crowd was too chaotic, he couldn't fully utilize his Super Soldierspeed, allowing Coulson to keep up by exerting his full effort.
"Where is the exact location?"
Steve asked the panting Coulson behind him, his expression normal.
"Let me check."
Coulson wheezed a few times, then pulled out a tracking device to identify the location, pointing ahead.
"It's just over there, not far."
Steve nodded without a moment's hesitation and dashed forward again.
Coulson frowned and swallowed hard. Seeing Steve's tireless figure, he couldn't help but marvel at the powerful constitution of a Super Soldier.
He wanted to rest, but glancing at the unsigned photo of Captain America in his pocket, he reluctantly followed.
After running for a while longer.
Bursts of explosions sounded from ahead.
Coulson and Steve's spirits surged, and they rushed forward.
As soon as they got close.
They saw Whiplash nearby, raising his whip and sweeping aside the surrounding cars.
Wherever the whip landed, cars were smashed as easily as if they were made of paper.
"Such power... it's so strong."
Captain America frowned at Whiplash's attacks. If he were to take a hit like that, even a Super Soldier's body would likely perish.
"We can't charge in directly; let's attack from behind."
Coulson, also intimidated by Whiplash's power, suggested.
Captain America nodded, and the two immediately ran toward Whiplash's rear.
Meanwhile.
On Whiplash's side.
Pepper was more difficult to deal with than he had imagined. Several times he tried to attack her, but she managed to dodge using the cars as cover.
This was making Whiplash impatient.
"My stamina is running low; I can't keep this up. I don't know if Tony saw, why hasn't he come to save me yet?"
Pepper ran forward, panting. She had completely lost her usual elegance; her face was covered in dust, and she had discarded her high heels because they hindered her escape.
Just then, Pepper discovered in despair that the road ahead was blocked by cars.
"Not running anymore, little rabbit?"
A Russian accent came from behind.
Pepper turned to look; Ivan gave a cold laugh and raised his whip.
With nowhere to retreat, Pepper was in despair, and tears involuntarily fell from her eyes.
Ivan no longer hesitated and swung his whip down.
"Stop!"
Steve and Coulson were not far away, but the distance was enough to stop him.
Steve charged forward with all his might, but that short distance was simply not enough for him to stop the blow.
"Pepper!!!"
Tony also flew to the scene and saw the sight that made his eyes nearly burst, but he was also too far to save Pepper. A deep sense of helplessness swept over him.
The next second.
The whip swung down toward Pepper.
Suddenly, a hand appeared between the two and caught the whip with one hand.
Crackle! Crackle!!!
That hand gripped the electric whip that had easily sliced through cars. Menacing electricity flowed over it, but the hand seemed completely unaffected, leaving no mark behind.
"It's Superman!!! Superman has appeared."
"Great, Superman is here. Everything will be fine now."
The surrounding crowd, who had been fleeing for their lives, stopped and began to cheer, as if Whiplash's defeat was already certain the moment Superman appeared.
"Huh?"
Hearing this, Whiplash's expression changed, and he looked up.
There stood a man with a physique as robust as a Greek statue; it was indeed Superman, Clark.
Seeing Clark's appearance clearly, Whiplash's face immediately changed, and his heart skipped a beat.
He had learned about Superman's existence over the past few days. With such a powerful individual suddenly appearing, he couldn't help but curse his bad luck.
"I'm saved."
Behind him, Pepper saw she was finally saved; her nerves relaxed, and she collapsed weakly to the ground.
After all, she was just an ordinary woman; having been on edge for so long, she could no longer hold on.
"Fortunately."
Steve breathed a sigh of relief seeing her saved, then looked at Clark. Recalling the files Nick Fury had given him, he said:
"This guy is... Superman."
It seemed there was indeed something fishy about the Superman situation. Someone who could save a person under such circumstances could never be a criminal who killed innocents indiscriminately.
It really should be investigated carefully, Steve thought, his mind racing.