Chapter 137: Restart Sentinels (1)
October 19, 2022 Author: Great Demon Spirit
In the air, several helicopters hovered in the distance, hesitant to approach, unsure if they were sent by the Police or the Military. They dared not come closer, as Tony's abilities were no joke. He had just used Instant Vivification to create several Transformers right before their eyes, let alone their helicopters? He could even catch bullets with his bare hands; his nerve reflexes and physical resilience had reached astonishing levels. If they got too close, they would likely just be offering themselves up, only increasing his Combat Power.
The media had long since started filming, capturing everything. This was excellent material; they wouldn't have to worry about a lack of content in the days to come.
Those with keen insight were more concerned, even worried, about Tony's rapidly escalating power. How long had it been, and Tony already possessed the ability of Instant Vivification for machinery? Furthermore, he could easily use Metal Manipulation like Magneto. His growth rate was astonishingly fast. This kind of ability from Tony could cause terrifying devastation in a modern city. All technological products could become his loyal soldiers.
"What is this guy trying to do, openly slaughtering Police officers in Times Square? Is he demonstrating against The Government?!" someone roared. This was a blatant slap in the face; the faces of their law enforcement agencies were practically swollen.
They hadn't paid much attention to Electro or people like him. After all, there were countless Mutants and Metahumans born every year. The public disliked Mutants precisely because Mutants couldn't control their Awakening time, let alone their Superpowers. One more Electro who could absorb a little Electricity was of no consequence.
They were more concerned about Tony. While it was still a question mark how far others could grow, Tony becoming a Level Four was only a matter of time. If Tony hadn't been so slippery, navigating between many major Factions, he would have long since faced an endless stream of assassinations and pursuits.
But now, Tony's actions were very interesting. Flaunting his strength so openly? Was it to welcome that "Mutant" radiating blue light? Tony was willing to fall out with The Authorities just to take that blue guy. What did that mean?
Either Tony, in a high-profile manner, was no longer content with his past silence, beginning to announce his presence and formally intervene in the games of the big shots; or, this blue guy was truly important, so important that Tony, who usually avoided trouble, was willing to risk it all and break ties with The Authorities.
"Investigate him, go and investigate! Find out all the past records of that blue guy! If he truly has talent, we must intercept him. We cannot allow him to provide high-end Combat Power to the Mutants." A prominent figure quickly issued the order.
General Ross even called Tony directly. Over the phone, General Ross roared, "Do you have any idea what the hell you're doing?! Slaughtering Police officers live in front of countless people? It's a good thing you didn't physically attack, otherwise I wouldn't be able to protect you! Get back here right now; your actions are enough to send you to a Military Tribunal!"
Of course, General Ross was just talking. The Military was a self-contained system; how the Military Tribunal's Judgment would truly unfold was ultimately up to the Military itself. Before they acquired Super-Soldier Technology, they wouldn't do anything to Tony.
On the contrary, if General Ross was smart enough, he could instead strike a deal and acquire some of Tony's Technology. Furthermore, he couldn't bear to lose Tony, such a capable subordinate.
"Relax, General Ross, didn't anything happen in the end? It was just a misunderstanding, with no casualties. I'll compensate for any damages... However, I will retain the right to pursue responsibility from that sniper. Openly attempting to kill a harmless Metahuman, he doesn't deserve the uniform he wears." Tony entered his home with Electro, where several people had already prepared a lavish meal.
Tony casually tossed his phone aside, completely disregarding General Ross's advice. He pulled the uneasy Max over and introduced him to everyone.
"Max Dillon, his alias is Electro—a name I gave him. From today onwards, he's a member of our team." Tony announced.
The Old Bartender, Crane, and Amanda clapped out of politeness.
Max was very reserved. He opened his mouth, stammering as he tried to introduce himself, but as soon as he spoke his name, the Old Bartender interrupted him, placing a bottle in front of Max.
The incident at Times Square had caused a huge stir, with emergency news flashes all over the internet and television. The Old Bartender had been at home, and as Tony's butler, he was well aware of certain matters. The Old Bartender welcomed the introverted newcomer in his own way.
Max fumbled as he took the bottle. "Is this for me? Are you giving me beer?"
"Of course..."
A spark of Electricity shot out from Max, shattering the bottle, igniting the beer, and causing a small fire. The coffee table was somewhat damaged by the blaze.
"Sorry, sorry, I'm too clumsy, I..." Max stammered incoherently, his eyes showing panic as more currents discharged from his body.
"...Is this overexcitement? It seems you haven't mastered your abilities yet. It's alright, take your time." Tony shrugged, not caring in the slightest.
Crane pulled a small canister from his waist and slammed it onto the coffee table. The astonishing cold air extinguished most of the flames. This was his latest Cryo-Canister.
Amanda simply reached out and grabbed the burning corner of the coffee table. Despite the searing flames, she calmly dragged the table, extinguishing the fire with a few motions and tossing it outside. A sizzling sound emanated as Amanda's hand visibly returned to its original state, without a trace of a burn.
They were demonstrating their differences in their own ways. No one here was a fool; rather, they were all clever people. The quickest way to accept someone who considers themselves an Anomaly is to show them your own anomalous side.
Max's anxious heart immediately settled. He murmured, "So, you're all like me... I'm not alone..."
The Old Bartender chuckled, directly taking an insulating cloth and draping it over Max. Then, he naturally put an arm around Max's neck—he was right to do so, as Max, who couldn't fully control his abilities yet, would have electrocuted him on contact.
"Hehehe, it's fine. We're all Anomalies here, not cut out for regular work, just trailing behind Tony to make a living. If drinking isn't an option, then do you smoke?" the Old Bartender said.
A warm current slowly flowed through Max's heart. He suddenly had many friends, and the Bioelectric Fields within their bodies filled him with joy and excitement. Poor Max finally had friends!
The group sat down separately, talking and building connections. In any case, in the days to come, they would all have to support each other.
"By the way, what's your Superpower?" Max asked the Old Bartender.
The Old Bartender was taken aback for a moment, then lowered his head in deep thought for a long while. After glancing at Tony, he replied with a sincere expression, "Being rich?"
Helping a friend promote a book, "Han Minister of the Three Kingdoms". Those interested can check it out.
(end of chapter)