That's enough for today. I closed the System interface.
Snow was still falling silently outside the window, lulling the city to sleep. I went to the window and admired the winter landscape for a while. White flakes twirled in the light of the streetlamps, settling on the windowsill. Peaceful. Quiet. And completely at odds with my new reality, full of hidden threats, superpowers, and holographic interfaces. Sometimes this contrast was maddening.
But there was little time for reflection. I needed to master the new tools. And first on the list was the "Photostatic Veil." The ability to change appearance is no joke.
I headed to the bathroom, turned on the light, and looked at my reflection. John Smith. Time to meet someone else.
I activated the ability. No special effects, just a slight mental effort, like switching on an extra function in my brain. I concentrated. I imagined changing my eye color to blue, like Captain America from old newsreels. It worked almost immediately. Then the hair—red, like Natasha Romanoff. This was harder; I had to strain to make the color saturated and not "flicker." Next—the face shape. I slightly altered the cheekbones, chin, and nose shape. Each time required concentration, holding the image in my mind.
"Alright, enough child's play," I said to my reflection with foreign features. "Let's try something more serious."
I closed my eyes and recalled the image of Tony Stark—as he was before Afghanistan. Energetic, arrogant genius-billionaire-playboy-philanthropist. Signature goatee, tousled hair, expensive suit, ironic glint in his eyes. I concentrated on every detail.
Opening my eyes, I saw an almost perfect copy in the mirror. Appearance, clothing—everything was in place. But… it wasn't him. My voice sounded the same, and an attempt to copy his famous smirk looked like a pathetic parody. Moreover, holding such a detailed and "alive" image was incredibly exhausting. Mental strain mounted. I realized—copying famous individuals for close contact was a failing idea. Voice, mannerisms, biometrics—the "Veil" did not simulate any of that. But creating a double for distraction at a distance was entirely realistic. I dropped Stark's image, feeling relieved.
I tried Fury—it was easier due to the static nature of the image and the eyepatch hiding part of his face. Then Peter, Gwen, Harry—familiar faces were easier, but the falsehood was still palpable. No, copying specific people is not the primary path. It's much more effective to create "archetypes."
I dedicated the next hour and a half to exactly that. An inconspicuous clerk in glasses. A surly worker in coveralls. A bearded hipster with colored hair. A tourist with a slightly goofy expression. A solid businessman in an expensive overcoat. I switched between images, trying to do it faster, hold them longer, and reduce the mental load. I learned to "feel" the mask, make it part of myself for a time, without losing concentration. By the end of two hours of practice, I felt exhausted, my head was buzzing, but I had achieved my goal. I hadn't become a master of disguise, but I had mastered the basics. I could create a convincing image and maintain it long enough for most operational tasks. The "Photostatic Veil" became my working tool.
It was already very late; the city outside the window was plunged into deep night. The perfect time to handle the second grand prize of today's lottery—the Audi R8. I didn't like the idea of leaving it all night in some parking lot, even a guarded one. But what if…
I called up the System interface again and opened the third page of the inventory. Opposite the line "[Item: Audi R8 (Stark Expo Edition) (Common)] - Awaiting materialization," I noticed… or rather, intuitively felt the presence of an option. Mental command: "Item option information." The interface responded with a brief summary: "Materialization at a specified location. Dematerialization and return to inventory upon user command."
This was it! I could not only summon the car but also put it back! This solved absolutely all problems with storage, security, and unwanted attention. The car would exist only when I needed it. Ingeniously simple. The System still delighted occasionally with its thoughtfulness.
Now, the question of legalization. The documents are there, in my name. A cover story… An inheritance from a grandmother? Too cliché, would raise questions with social services. Needed something more… Marvel-esque. What if… Tony Stark? I performed some service for him (what, exactly, I could invent later, something tech- or info-related), and in his eccentric manner, he gifted me a car? Sounds crazy? Yes. But who is going to check? Especially now, with Stark missing in Afghanistan. And when he returns… if he returns… he certainly won't care about dealing with some teenager and his car. Furthermore, the very fact of owning such a car from Stark could even add certain weight to me in some circles. Yes, this cover story was risky, but bold and had a chance of working. Decided.
If that's the case, why wait?
I activated the "Veil" again, assuming the appearance of a very solid, middle-aged man in expensive clothing—the perfect look for an R8 test drive. I left the house and caught a taxi to the nearest 24-hour shopping mall with a large underground parking lot—a place busy enough not to arouse suspicion, and spacious enough to find a secluded corner.
Finding a suitable spot on the lower level, far from the entrance and cameras, I got out of the taxi and gave the command to materialize. A slight ripple in the air—and the blue sports car stood before me.
"Audi R8, V8, quattro…" I whispered, walking around the car. The voice under the guise sounded solid. "Coulson always appreciated good engineering, and this car… it definitely deserves attention." I ran my hand over the smooth, cold metal. Unlocked the door with the key, which had reappeared in my pocket. Sat in the low sports seat. Leather, aluminum, quality plastic. Everything fitted perfectly.
I started the engine. The deep, purebred V8 growl echoed off the concrete walls of the parking lot. I smiled. Yes, this was definitely worth the GP.
Driving out of the parking lot onto the night streets, I felt the car literally glue itself to the road. All-wheel drive and a low center of gravity gave an incredible sense of control. Sharp steering, instant reactions. And the dynamics… Even a light press on the gas caused noticeable acceleration to the pleasant accompaniment of eight cylinders.
I drove without a specific destination, simply enjoying the process. Night is the perfect time for such a car in such a city. There was almost no traffic. I sped along deserted avenues, drove onto a bridge, and admired the lights of Manhattan. The wind whistled in the partially open window. Driving skills obtained from Coulson allowed me to feel surprisingly confident behind the wheel of this rocket. I wasn't a racer, but I could drive fast, smoothly, and safely, completely controlling the situation. It was an intoxicating feeling—power, speed, control, and complete anonymity under a false guise.
On the way back, on a straight stretch of highway, I allowed myself a bit more—pedal to the metal. The acceleration pressed me into the seat, the engine's roar filled the cabin, and the world outside the window turned into blurred streaks of light. I quickly slowed down—recklessness serves no purpose, but it was necessary to feel the car's potential.
After driving for about an hour, I returned to my neighborhood. I found a quiet, dark courtyard with no people or cameras. I got out of the car, casting one last admiring glance at it.
"Inventory."
The blue sports car silently vanished, as if it had never been there. The keys in my pocket disappeared, too.
I deactivated the "Photostatic Veil," becoming myself again. Fatigue after an eventful day and practicing the ability was making itself known.
The next morning. December 10th.
Morning was just beginning; it was still dark outside, with only the first hints of dawn coloring the sky in the east. I sat in my room, the System interface hanging habitually before my eyes. I switched to the "General" tab.
"Thirty points. Three times ten. Let's start with the second batch. Let's see what lurks beyond the borders of Marvel."
I mentally pressed the "[ Summon x10 ] (Cost: 10 GP)" button.
The animation changed. Instead of Marvel symbols, a mad kaleidoscope of movie clips, comic book covers from other publishers, anime characters, video game logos, fantasy runes, and futuristic diagrams now flashed by. The vortex was more chaotic, more unpredictable. Finally, it subsided, and ten cards lined up before me again, face down. This time, on the backs, was some neutral System symbol—a stylized letter 'G'. GP counter was at 20.
My heart gave a slight jump. The General pool is a true lottery. I mentally flipped the first card.
And the world ceased to exist for me for a few seconds. A girl was depicted on the card. Not just a girl—a work of art. Silvery-white shoulder-length hair covering one eye, delicate facial features emphasized by a small beauty mark below her lip, and a black blindfold (or visor?) over her eyes, adding to her mystery. She was dressed in an elegant but clearly combat-ready black dress with slits revealing shapely legs in high-heeled, tall boots. In her hand, she held an elegant white katana. A small satellite robot floated behind her back. I recognized her instantly.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: YoRHa No. 2 Type B (2B) (Template)
Type: Character Template (Assimilation/Summon)
Rarity: Epic
Origin: "NieR: Automata" Universe (Video Game)
Description: Provides access to the template of the original YoRHa No. 2 Type B unit (Combat).
Upon Assimilation: Integrates into the user combat skills, physical parameters (within human limits, enhanced by the System), sword proficiency, and YoRHa programming basics. Adaptation to a biological host proceeds stably.
Upon Summoning: Materializes 2B herself in the user's world, including her standard weaponry (Katana "Virtuous Contract") and Pod 042 support. The android possesses superhuman combat characteristics, masterfully wields a sword, and the Pod provides fire and scanning support. Possesses the unique ability to switch between her standard combat android body and a bio-synthetic shell indistinguishable from a living human. The human form may slightly limit peak combat capabilities, but allows full social integration and human sensory perception. Retains her personality, absolutely loyal to the Summoner.
Note: "Emotions are prohibited."
2B! The real one! An Epic card! And the possibility to SUMMON her! My brain exploded with a firework of fanboy delight. Assimilation? Who would even think of assimilating 2B when she can be summoned?! To see her live, here, in my room? To have her fight alongside me? This… this was beyond a dream! The inner Coulson, usually whispering about analysis and caution, was instantly and unceremoniously shut up by the jubilant shout of a geek teenager. Consequences? Responsibility? Difficulties adapting an android in a world without a war against machines? LATER! I'll think about all that later! Right now, there was only one thought: "I must summon her!"
But first—the remaining cards. I needed to finish the draw ritual. Burning with impatience, but trying to maintain the remnants of my composure, I flipped the second card. Dominic, motherfucking, Toretto!
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Dominic Toretto (Template)
Type: Character Template (Assimilation)
Rarity: Rare
Origin: "Fast & Furious" Franchise (Movie)
Description: Provides access to the template of Dominic Toretto.
Upon Assimilation: Integrated skills:
Expert driving skills: street racing, J-turns, driving on the edge of physics, maneuvering various types of cars.
Deep knowledge of auto mechanics: repair, tuning, forcing engines, diagnosing malfunctions "by ear."
Significant physical strength and street fighting skills.
Innate leadership qualities and charisma.
Unwavering loyalty to "family."
Experience in planning and executing daring heists using vehicles.
Upon Summoning: Materializes Dominic Toretto. Will be loyal to the Summoner (as the new "family"?), but will act according to his principles. Will require a garage, fast cars, and a case of Corona beer.
Note: "I live my life a quarter mile at a time."
"Ha! Dom!" I couldn't restrain a chuckle.
"System, have you decided to indulge my geeky weaknesses today?" I certainly won't summon him—one charismatic leader with the aspirations of a racing god in my modest living space is excessive. But assimilating…
"Driving skills for the R8? Perfect! Mechanics? Super! Strength? Will come in handy! 'Family'?" – I winced.
"I hope it's not contagious, and I don't start delivering pathetic speeches and drinking only a specific beer. And please, let's go without driving cars into space!"
Decided—I assimilate before summoning 2B. The card went into the inventory.
The remaining eight cards were that exact mix of strange, amusing, and potentially useful that I already expected from the General pool. This time I reviewed them faster; the main focus was on the upcoming summon.
Third card. An image… of something elegant, purple, with elven patterns. Underwear?
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Sylvanas Windrunner's Decorative Trim
Type: Item (Souvenir)
Rarity: Common
Origin: "Warcraft" Universe (Game/Lore)
Description: A small trim made of dark silk embroidered with silver skulls and Forsaken symbolism. Was likely part of the Dark Lady's wardrobe or armor. Possesses no magical or practical properties. Smells of ozone and faint disappointment.
Note: "I am Sylvanas Windrunner, Ranger-General of Silvermoon. I advise you to turn back."
"Sylvanas's trim… Well, at least not underwear, thanks for that," I sighed with relief. An absolutely useless souvenir, but for a Warcraft fan (which I was in my past life)—an amusing rarity.
"On the shelf, next to the jar of Asgardian dirt." Into the inventory.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Luffy's Straw Hat (Miniature Copy)
Type: Item (Souvenir)
Rarity: Common
Origin: "One Piece" Universe (Anime/Manga)
Description: A detailed copy of the famous straw hat at approximately 1:10 scale. Impossible to wear (unless you are a hamster). Made of high-quality straw.
Note: "I'm gonna be King of the Pirates!"
"Luffy's hat! Cutie."
A smile touched my lips again. Again, completely useless, but as a One Piece fan, I couldn't throw it away.
"Will decorate the desktop." Into the inventory.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Empty Nuka-Cola Quantum Bottle
Type: Item (Souvenir/Clutter)
Rarity: Common
Origin: "Fallout" Universe (Video Game)
Description: A glass bottle of characteristic shape from Nuka-Cola Quantum. Empty. Retains a residual faint blue glow (radiation level negligible… probably).
Note: "Drink Nuka-Cola!"
"Fallout! Another legendary universe."
I twirled the virtual bottle.
"Glows… cool. Can be used as a nightlight? Or just put on a shelf as a reminder of the Wasteland." Into the inventory.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Cardboard Box Appreciation Club Patch
Type: Item (Souvenir/Accessory)
Rarity: Common
Origin: "Metal Gear Solid" Universe (Video Game)
Description: A cloth patch with an embroidered image of a cardboard box and the inscription "Stealth Optional." Intended for attachment to clothing or equipment.
Note: "?!"
I laughed.
"This is top notch! A patch for Solid Snake fans. 'Stealth Optional.' Genius. Definitely sewing this onto something." Into the inventory.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Plastic Spork of Destiny (Slightly Bent)
Type: Item (Eating Utensil/Souvenir?)
Rarity: Common
Origin: Unknown (Perhaps a fantasy parody?)
Description: A cheap disposable spork (spoon-fork) made of white plastic. Slightly deformed. Emits a barely perceptible aura… of culinary compromise and faint disappointment.
Note: "It's dangerous to go alone! Take this... spork?"
"Spork of Destiny… System, you're trolling me, aren't you?" I shook my head.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Flawless Diamond (0.5 karat)
Type: Item (Value/Material)
Rarity: Common
Origin: Earth (Various Universes)
Description: A small (0.5 karat) but perfectly cut diamond of the highest clarity and color. Easily salable through jewelers or pawnshops at market price (approximately $5000-7000 in this world).
Note: "Diamonds are eternal... until GP are needed."
"Now this is serious."
Half a karat of the purest diamond. Compact, valuable, easy to hide, and relatively easy to sell without raising much question.
"An excellent addition to the financial reserve. Thanks, System." Into the inventory.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: Stack of Unmarked Gold Coins (10 ounces)
Type: Item (Value/Currency)
Rarity: Common
Origin: Unknown (Fantasy/Historical Worlds?)
Description: A heavy leather pouch containing approximately 10 troy ounces (about 311 grams) of high-fineness gold coins without markings. Can be sold to precious metals dealers or pawnshops by the weight of gold (approximately $8000-10000 in this world at the current rate).
Note: "Time is money, friend!"
"Gold. Even better."
Coins without markings—even less attention-grabbing than a diamond. Pure weight of precious metal.
"A reliable asset. And a pleasantly heavy pouch." Into the inventory.
CARD OBTAINED!
Name: "Tales of Suspense #39" Comic (First Edition, NM)
Type: Item (Value/Collectible)
Rarity: Common
Origin: Marvel Universe (Earth-1218)
Description: A copy of the 1963 comic "Tales of Suspense" number 39, featuring the first appearance of Iron Man (Tony Stark). Condition is almost perfect (Near Mint). Represents high collectible value in worlds where such comics exist and are valued (estimated value at Earth user auctions - $8000-12000+). Value in the current Marvel universe is undetermined.
Note: "True Believer, stay alert!" – Stan Lee
Now this is irony of fate in its purest form! The first comic about Iron Man… in a world where Tony Stark is a real person who is right now in captivity creating his first armor! Can I sell this comic here? Will collectors understand its value? Or will they consider it just amusing fiction? Too many questions. But a significant item.
"Definitely keeping it. At least as a symbol of this entire crazy situation." Into the inventory.
The second batch of ten is complete. The result was excellent. Two character templates (Epic and Rare), eight common items. Twenty Gacha Points still remained.
But now that mattered little to me. All thoughts were focused on two cards: Toretto and 2B. And I needed to act immediately, before the fanboy ardor cooled.
"First—skills!" – I decided. I selected Dominic Toretto's card. "Assimilate!"
Another torrent of information, but different this time—the roar of engines, the smell of gasoline, knowledge of every nut in a V8 engine, the sensation of a perfect drift, the brute strength of a street fighter, and this all-encompassing sense… of family. The world tilted for a moment under the weight of the new persona, but then integrated, leaving behind confidence behind the wheel of any vehicle, deep knowledge in mechanics, and a slight desire to drink an ice-cold Corona. I checked the status—[Dominic Toretto (Template)] - 19% added to the "In Progress" section. Excellent.
And now… the main thing. The moment I had been waiting for from the very instant I saw her card.
I selected the YoRHa No. 2 Type B template. My heart was pounding like crazy. "Summon!"
The interface issued a prompt:
"[Confirm Summoning of Template 'YoRHa No. 2 Type B'? WARNING: Summoning is irreversible. The character will be loyal but retain personality.]"
"YES! CONFIRM! QUICKLY!" – I mentally shouted, barely containing the excitement.
The card erupted with blinding white light. The air in the middle of the room thickened, shimmered, as if woven from light and digital interference. White runes or symbols, resembling code, twirled in a vortex, forming a silhouette. The glow became unbearably bright, and then sharply collapsed inward upon itself.
And where the vortex of light had just been, stood she.
YoRHa No. 2 Type B. 2B.
She slowly, smoothly turned toward me.
And I… I stood opposite, like an idiot, mouth open, unable to utter a single word. Delight, disbelief, realization of WHAT I had just done, mixed into a potent cocktail. Inner voice screamed about rashness, consequences, the need to immediately develop a first contact protocol, but the fanboy in me simply exulted.
2B. Here. With me.
Consequences? Oh, they will definitely be. Grandiose. But right now it was unimportant.
<…Commander?>