At the Umbrella experimental base, America Chavez thanked Nathan Hawke and Sengoku Ryoma."Thank you, Nathan, and thank you, Sengoku Ryoma, for taking care of me during this time."
There was deep reluctance in America Chavez's eyes.Although she hadn't spent much meaningful time with Nathan Hawke and his companions since arriving in this world, the days she lived here were the most stable, comfortable, and pleasant she had experienced.
This made America Chavez even more determined to leave.
"Are you sure you don't want to wear the Eisenach armor?" Ryoma asked.
America Chavez firmly shook her head."No, I need to properly train my abilities."
"Alright then, at least take this."Ryoma tossed her a smart watch. After she caught it, he added, "This is a weak AI. I couldn't do better. With such a small body, I can't turn you into a full AI user."
"Thank you—really," America Chavez said sincerely.
Nathan Hawke glanced at Ryoma, who tilted his head in response.
Watching America Chavez fail five times before finally opening a portal on the sixth attempt—her face full of awkwardness—Nathan Hawke waved and said,"Come visit when you have time."
Hearing that, America stumbled slightly, then waved her arm vigorously to say goodbye.
After sending off Miss America—
Ryoma gestured for Nathan Hawke to come over. Curious about what he was up to, Nathan followed.
On the sofa in the testing area, Ryoma began explaining the theories of parallel universes and the multiverse he had learned.
"Boss, you once told me there are parallel universes in this world. At first, I doubted it. But the longer I've lived here, the more interested I became, and I did some research," Ryoma said.
He leaned back on the sofa, looking confident and relaxed."Based on what I've learned, parallel universes are multiple independent universes similar to our own. Each one has different histories, different decisions, different developments."
"So, every choice creates a different branch universe," Nathan Hawke said.
Ryoma nodded."Yes. Every possible decision spawns a new branch. For example, if you choose to go left or right at a moment, those choices create two separate universes: one where you walk left, one where you walk right."
"That means countless parallel universes exist, each with its own reality."
"According to the theory, the number of parallel universes is nearly infinite. Each universe is its own independent reality with unique history, civilization, and life forms. They exist side by side without interfering with each other."
"Then… can these universes communicate with each other?" Ryoma asked another question.
Ryoma thought for a moment, then said,"Based on current research, communication may be possible, but only with special energy or technology. In the real world, we still lack solid evidence that parallel universes can connect."
"Naruto, what do you personally think about parallel universes?" Nathan asked curiously.
Ryoma chuckled."I've studied plenty of theories and stories. Some claim parallel universes are like a tangled spiderweb—interlinked and influencing each other. Others describe adventures where people travel between universes to explore different worlds."
"By the way, earlier you said America needs to develop her abilities. What do you think of her potential?" Nathan suddenly remembered.
Ryoma became mysterious."Boss, America is a very special existence. Her abilities are unique—she can travel freely across parallel universes. She can gather resources from other universes, or learn knowledge and technology from them."
"That's an incredible ability," Nathan said in amazement. "She truly has great talent and potential."
"But her sense of justice won't let her abuse it." Nathan shook his head.
"Yes, I think so too. She's a special girl. She'll achieve great things," Ryoma replied.
Their discussion paused for a moment.
"Tell me—did you put something personal in that watch?" Nathan asked, knowing Ryoma's personality all too well.
Ryoma grinned."Boss knows me well."
"Of course," Nathan laughed. "So what did you do?"
Ryoma took out a microchip from his pocket."I installed this chip in the watch. It stores and transfers data. Since America is leaving, I wanted her to have it—maybe it'll help her explore other universes and gather more knowledge and resources."
"Then let's hope she doesn't break the watch—and maybe returns someday to use it."
"Heh, just a light flick of the wrist."
Then they switched topics.
"RIS?" Ryoma looked surprised and walked toward his command center.
"I am here, Mr. Ryoma," a synthetic electronic voice said as a pixelated robotic face appeared on the screen.
Nathan asked,"Is our artificial intelligence deployment ready?"
"The headquarters' deployment is mostly done. We are waiting for the European branch," Ryoma said, then told the AI,"Gather the latest information from RIS."
The AI immediately displayed the newest intel.
"According to the latest report, the Revenue Intelligence Service (RIS) has begun investigating a company called Stark Group for potential tax issues. They suspect the company of tax violations and have increased the intensity of their investigation."
"Tony Stark's company? RIS contacted them?" Nathan asked, surprised.
"Yes. According to this morning's record, after RIS reached out to Stark Group, Tony Stark publicly declared war on the terrorist group 'Mandarin.'" the AI answered.
"Is there a video?" Nathan asked.
"Yes, President Nathan Hawke," the AI replied, then played the footage.
In the video, Tony stood at the front entrance of Stark Group, surrounded by reporters holding microphones and cameras, asking about the RIS investigation and the Mandarin declaration.
The reporters asked:
"Mr. Stark, we hear the Revenue Intelligence Service is investigating your company over tax issues. How do you respond?"
Tony smiled calmly."We'll fully cooperate with the investigation. As a responsible corporation, Stark Group always follows tax laws and regulations."
"Do you think this investigation is a setup?" another reporter asked.
Tony shook his head."We won't speculate. RIS is a professional agency. They're ensuring tax transparency and fairness. We trust they'll conduct the investigation properly."
When asked about declaring war on the Mandarin, Tony's expression turned serious.
"We cannot tolerate terrorists," Tony said with firm resolve. "I will work with the government to protect our nation and our people."
When reporters brought up criticism of War Machine and Iron Man, Tony laughed."Everyone has their opinions. My actions will speak for themselves."
Then Tony turned directly toward the camera—his expression shifting to anger and determination.
"Mandarin—you think you can threaten America? You're wrong! I am Iron Man. I stand for justice and freedom. I won't let your evil succeed!"
"You dare challenge my country and my people? I'll find you myself—and you will pay!"Tony's voice was filled with intensity.
"Your schemes will fail. Your organization will be destroyed. No matter the cost, I will protect my family, my friends, and this nation!"
Then, with a final smirk, Tony added:
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