บท 47: Chapter 47
I stood before a dozen bodies scattered in front of the door to my lab. Their flesh had already begun to decompose rapidly, releasing a suffocating stench. It was evident that a highly toxic substance had been used here, one that quickly destroyed tissue.
The smell was sharp and unpleasant, filling the air with a heavy, oppressive wave. I covered my nose and mouth with my hand, trying to breathe as shallowly as possible. Thoughts raced through my mind: who could have used such a substance, and for what purpose?
I leaned down to the nearest body, careful not to touch it. The skin showed signs of burns and blisters, typical of exposure to a potent toxin.
I acted reflexively, wasting no time. Using my abilities, I began dismantling the equipment that remained intact. Every movement was precise, every piece carefully removed and stored safely.
"Reed, what happened?" Tony's voice sounded behind me, filled with concern.
"Dr. Richards?" Parker added.
Everyone who had been puzzled by my strange behavior downstairs followed behind me. I could feel their shocked and confused gazes as they took in the scene before them.
"What the hell is this?!" Ben exclaimed, his voice full of disbelief.
Ben's question was the obvious one. He wanted to make sure it wasn't me who had done this.
"It wasn't me," I replied, trying to remain calm. "Judging by the way the bodies are decomposing, this was their own doing."
"They killed themselves?" Parker asked, his voice trembling, revealing the depth of his shock.
Despite his experience, Parker's voice reminded me that he was still a teenager. He had seen a lot, but a scene like this was bound to unsettle him.
"It appears so," I said, examining the decaying bodies. "They likely used some kind of toxic substance to avoid capture. This toxin destroys cells at an alarming rate."
Tony moved closer, his face serious and focused. He noticed what had caught my attention a moment earlier, considering the last words one of them had uttered.
"Is that a Hydra symbol?" he asked, pointing to a small emblem that hadn't yet completely dissolved under the influence of the toxins.
I glanced at the symbol Tony indicated and felt a chill run down my spine. It was indeed the Hydra symbol. I stood up, trying to process everything that had happened.
"If my eyes aren't deceiving me, then yes," I said, nodding. "That explains their resolve and willingness to commit suicide. They knew they would be caught and chose death to avoid revealing information."
"Yeah, but didn't these bastards die out after World War II with Hitler?" Tony remarked, his tone almost flippant.
"You mean something like neo-Nazis?" Ben asked, raising an eyebrow. "What kind of scum would push those kinds of ideas?"
Tony simply nodded. But I had arguments against that theory.
"A newly formed organization wouldn't have this level of weaponry and training."
The equipment that allowed them to evade my telepathy… That was troubling information. Because of this oversight, I had allowed the enemy to reach my inventions. From what I could sense, they had accessed some of my designs that weren't stored within Chronos.
After scanning Chronos' databases, I confirmed they hadn't managed to scan the device's capsule structure.
"There's some logic to that, but if that's the case, then Hydra never really disappeared. And that's a very grim prospect."
"Just what we needed... Nazis," Johnny muttered.
"What's the plan, Stretch?"
For the first time in a long while, I found myself in such an uncomfortable position. I had underestimated AIM and their capabilities.
"First, we need data."
Judging by the looks on Tony and Sue's faces, they understood what I was about to do next.
"Chronos, scan the samples."
I activated the AI only after ensuring the building was clear of intruders.
"Processing, Dr. Richards."
The AI got to work, and the results were quick to follow. I paused all my side projects to focus all resources on this task. I knew the situation demanded immediate action and full concentration.
Chronos delivered the results swiftly, and we gathered around the holographic screen to examine them.
"The substance used by the agents is a highly toxic and fast-acting poison," Chronos reported. "Its chemical structure is unique and indicates a high level of technological advancement. The methodology resembles the work of a scientist named Mathias Stockhart… Searching for connections… No ties to Hydra detected… Analyzing the preserved equipment… The software is written in a language not used in the known world… Analyzing code structure..."
Chronos couldn't identify specific individuals, but it did trace a connection to an organization called AIM, mentioned briefly in the databases I had pulled from Fury.
Tony seemed to grasp this as well, judging by the way his eyes narrowed. He had studied Fury's data as meticulously as I had.
"So AIM is working with Hydra?" Tony's question cut through the silence that had fallen when Chronos finished its work and resumed thawing out the current projects.
"Or AIM is a subdivision of Hydra," I concluded. "Either way, we need to do something about this."
"Yeah… I don't think the people my father fought against would be thrilled to see me alive," Tony said, then paused before asking, "What information did they get their hands on?"
Tony had some idea of what kind of tech I possessed.
"From what I've gathered… They got hold of data on the generators. It's bad, but it could've been worse."
Tony smirked, while Sue sighed with a hint of resignation.
"Are you going to share this information with our one-eyed friend?"
"I'll have to share some of it, as he'll find out eventually."
There was no argument there. Everyone present was well aware of Fury's capabilities.
"Do that after I've completed my research on these samples."
—= Some time later =—
Tony left rather quickly, taking samples with him that he wanted to study personally, while I delved deeper into analyzing Connors' genes.
"Wow..." Parker whispered, standing next to me.
I could practically feel how wide his eyes were as he took in the data.
"As you can see, it's impossible to completely remove what he did from his genome, but we can control or suppress the transformation mechanism."
"So, you'll be able to correct Dr. Connors' mistake," Parker nodded.
I nodded in return and initiated the synthesis of the necessary compounds. With the swarm of nanomachines activated, the building's functionality was fully restored. It only needed to last for a short time before I moved everything to the island.
"You're a genius, Dr. Richards."
He said this just as the remedy was completed. It took the form of a swarm of nanomachines that would integrate into Connors' body and act as regulators for the substances needed to subdue the Lizard.
"Let's see how it works on Connors first, then you can start praising."
Parker nodded, and I suggested he proceed. He took the syringe filled with the pinkish liquid and injected it into the area where Connors' veins should be.
The reverse transformation began immediately. The Lizard started to shrink, and his scaly skin began to revert to human flesh. Soon, before us lay the unconscious form of the scientist.
—\\—
Once his body returned to its human form, Dr. Connors regained consciousness quite unexpectedly. Judging by his expression, he fully understood the precarious situation he was in.
"I suggest you remain calm, Dr. Connors," I said, trying to keep my tone gentle yet firm. "Panic will only lead to poor judgments clouded by your emotions."
Connors froze for a moment, his gaze darting around the room as he tried to process everything that had happened. I stepped forward to focus his attention and continued speaking.
"We're here to help you," I added, hoping my voice conveyed reassurance. "You've been through an extremely distressing ordeal, but you're safe now."
He nodded, his breathing gradually steadying. I sensed the tension in the room easing slightly. Peter, standing nearby, watched every move of his mentor, ready to intervene if necessary.
"What will happen to me?" Connors asked, his voice still trembling.
"In my opinion, you'll have to spend some time with rather questionable individuals," I replied, maintaining a calm demeanor. "From what I've gathered, you haven't done anything too extreme. In a way, you're lucky, Dr. Connors."
Indeed, Connors was fortunate that the Lizard had immediately retreated to the sewers, minimizing the damage.
"When will this happen?" he asked, his voice now steadier.
Connors' cooperation was a good sign, as such actions could expedite his release.
"It depends on which path the politicians choose," I replied. "I have some guesses, but to my deep regret, I'm not particularly skilled in politics. The situation with Norman speaks volumes about that."
Connors and Parker smiled, likely recalling those events and my actions.
"But there's one thing I know for certain," I continued. "Your willingness to cooperate and provide information can significantly improve your situation."
Connors nodded, his face showing a mix of gratitude and relief.
"Thank you, Dr. Richards," he said. "I'm willing to help. I'll tell you everything I know."
A certain resolve appeared in Dr. Connors' eyes, which was encouraging.
"If possible… I'd like to get this over with while I still have the willpower."
My gaze fell on his physiological readings. The data was within normal limits, allowing for the possibility of Connors interacting with Fury or his people. However, I still wasn't sure if he should proceed while in this heightened state.
"Dr. Richards," Connors said, making me look at him.
He appeared much more confident than he had a few moments ago.
"This isn't an impulsive decision. I'm a scientist too, and I know what you might be thinking. I'm certain this is the right course of action."
His gaze didn't waver for even a second. So, I had no choice but to say,
"Very well."
—= Natasha Romanoff =—
Two hours after Reed Richards returned to the building, Tony Stark flew out. This was captured not only by cameras but also by numerous onlookers.
"It's clear. We need to activate our people inside Stark Industries," Fury said, his voice full of determination.
Fury was always a step ahead. The agents embedded within Stark's company were already prepared to act.
"Richards still hasn't granted entry?" Fury asked, his eyes fixed on the screen.
Natasha shook her head slightly and replied, "He hasn't been seen since he entered his building."
"Tch. These geniuses and their toys," Fury muttered, irritation evident in his voice.
Natasha clearly heard his frustration. She understood that time was against them, and every second counted.
"Unfortunately, we can't act more aggressively," Fury continued, his voice growing firmer. "There's no need to create an enemy out of thin air."
"Understood," Natasha replied.
Fury fell silent, but Natasha knew he was still listening. This was common in operations where immediate response from leadership was critical.
At that moment, Natasha's gaze caught Dr. Richards emerging from the building, accompanied by Curt Connors, Spider-Man, and his team.
"Dr. Richards, I'm so glad to see you," Natasha said, her voice full of warmth, though underlined with professional caution.
Natasha quickly noted that Curt Connors looked as if he was making a decision that could change his life. He was clearly troubled, and Natasha could understand the source of his anxiety.
"Natasha," Reed responded as he approached. "I assume Fury is listening?"
The spy frowned but gave a small nod in response.
"Good. Then we can begin."
—= Nicholas Joseph Fury =—
Reed Richards was a man of great pride and confidence. That was how the director of SHIELD would describe the scientist. Over the course of their interactions, Fury had built a psychological profile of the genius who could overshadow any scientist of this era.
It was all the more surprising, then, to hear Richards openly admit that his defenses weren't as infallible as he had believed.
Fury's thoughts were interrupted as one of his subordinates entered. It seemed the
data on Connors had been verified.
"What's your assessment?" Fury asked.
"Reed Richards' findings align with what we observed when analyzing Curt Connors' samples," the subordinate replied.
This meant that Connors was a viable subject to work with, just as Richards had suggested during their discussions. Richards knew that someone like Connors would inevitably end up in Fury's hands.
"And what about the Lizard serum?" Fury inquired.
The potential for rapid regeneration without harmful side effects was tempting, and even Fury acknowledged that there was some truth in Richards' statements.
"We'll need to have a conversation with Dr. Connors," the scientist replied with a shrug.
Fury could tell the scientist was being entirely truthful.
—= Some Time Later =—
In the end, Curt Connors received his sentence, and it seemed that Fury had pulled a few strings to ensure it was as lenient as possible. If I'm not mistaken, Fury aims to leverage Connors' genius, which makes sense considering SHIELD's limited alternatives.
These thoughts swirled in the back of my mind as I worked on the genes of En Sabah Nur. I had even postponed moving to the island temporarily to focus on this project. The situation with Hydra and AIM had forced me to reconsider my plans and accelerate my efforts to enhance my own capabilities.
"Chronos, run the simulation," I ordered, focusing my attention on the monitors.
"Simulation successful," Chronos reported after a few minutes.
"Begin the tests with the clones," I continued, closely monitoring the process.
Multiple additional checks began to avoid potential errors. Once I was fully confident that everything was functioning correctly, I initiated the integration of En Sabah Nur's X-gene.
"Administering anesthesia," Chronos informed me, his voice calm and assured.
I settled into the capsule, feeling the cold of the anesthesia spread through my body. Thoughts of the future and what lay ahead flickered through my mind, but I knew this step was necessary. Enhancing myself had become a priority given the current threats.
"Gene implantation process initiated," came the voice of Kronos, and I felt a slight tingling sensation, gradually pulling me into a deep sleep.
When I regained consciousness, all the monitoring systems displayed stable results. The implantation was successful.
"Dr. Richards, all readings are normal," Kronos reported. "The process is complete."
Since I already had the X genes, identifying the new abilities I had gained wasn't too difficult.
"The internal lab is ready for further enhancement," I whispered.
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Arcane_Eso
Arcane_Eso Stones for the God of Stones! Souls for the Throne of Souls!
บท 48: Chapter 48
BAM!
The training dummy, positioned three meters away, was obliterated in an instant. My fingers, having transformed into razor-sharp blades, sliced through the iron structure of the dummy before returning to their normal form.
"Experiment number 155 was successful," I said, satisfied with the result. "Initiate the next one."
Chronos complied, and soon, a new task materialized before me—a more challenging version of the previous one.
"Beginning the first attempt to synthesize a new substance using my abilities," I announced, focusing on the next phase of the experiment.
On the lab table before me lay a set of chemical reagents and a container of liquid metal. I extended my hand, and my fingers slowly transformed into precise instruments, capable of manipulating atoms.
"Chronos, activate scanning and monitoring," I ordered, feeling my concentration reach its peak.
"Executing, Dr. Richards," Chronos responded, and I heard the faint hum of sensors coming online.
My hands began to emit a soft bluish glow as I focused my powers on altering the molecular structure. The liquid metal flowed smoothly, mixing with the chemical reagents. I could feel each atom settling into place, creating a new molecular structure.
"Stability of the compound confirmed," Chronos reported. "Proceed."
I delved deeper into the process, altering the substance's form and composition with each passing second. My new abilities allowed me to control the process at a level previously thought impossible. The substance began to change color, shifting from a silvery hue to a deep blue, signaling that the process was on track.
"Experiment number 156: successful synthesis of a new compound," I announced as the process concluded. "Initiate property testing."
I took a sample of the new compound and placed it in a specialized chamber for further testing. Chronos began running a series of tests to determine the compound's strength, flexibility, and conductivity.
"Analysis shows high durability and resistance to external factors," Chronos reported. "The substance possesses unique properties that could be valuable in various applications."
I nodded, satisfied with the result. My body, now enhanced with new abilities, had unlocked incredible possibilities for research and the development of new technologies. But there was still much work to be done.
"Good, Chronos," I said. "Let's begin the next phase. We have many more experiments to conduct."
Some time later...
It took me about ten years to learn how to use my body as a laboratory. I was capable of granting myself new powers even based on the genes of En Sabah Nur, but my knowledge, combined with the X-genes of mutants like Jean Grey, Charles Xavier, and Magneto, allowed me to integrate more precise and necessary abilities. It was on enhancing this aspect of my new abilities that I focused the remaining time.
Thanks to atomic control over my own body, I could safely conduct experiments on myself, knowing that in case of an emergency, I could revert to a more stable state. The pinnacle of my experiments was to merge the X-genes of Scott Summers and Jean Grey. I was well aware that this combination could create mutants as powerful as Nathan Summers and Rachel Summers.
Today, I decided to experiment with incorporating these genes into my DNA. I prepared the lab, calibrating all necessary systems and verifying the equipment.
"Chronos, activate monitoring of all vital parameters and initiate the safety protocol," I commanded, ready to begin the procedure.
"Executing, Dr. Richards," Chronos responded, and I felt the protective and monitoring systems activate around me.
I concentrated, feeling the atoms of my body respond to my will. Using atomic control, I began integrating the genes of Scott Summers and Jean Grey into my DNA, guiding the process with precision that would make any surgeon envious.
"Initiating X-gene implantation," I said, watching the changes unfold on the holographic screen.
How many combinations of Summers' and Grey's genes were there? And how many of these combinations were potentially as powerful as Nathan or Rachel?
Thanks to the enhancements I made to myself, I was able to find the answers to these questions. Their genes couldn't produce a weak mutant. Every combination was essentially an Omega-level mutant.
That's why I proceeded without any restrictions.
My eyes began to glow as the genetic material of Cyclops and Jean Grey integrated into my DNA. I felt a slight tingling sensation that quickly escalated into an intense surge of energy coursing through my body.
"Parameters stable," Chronos reported. "Proceed."
I continued to focus, channeling energy to enhance and stabilize the genetic alterations. A stream of pure power began to form, ready to be unleashed. I concentrated, striving to control this newfound force.
"Chronos, deploy the protective screens," I ordered, preparing to test the new ability.
"Executing, Dr. Richards," the AI responded, and sturdy energy barriers rose around me.
I took a deep breath and released the energy. Beams of energy shot from my palms, piercing through the protective barriers and obliterating the training dummy. I felt that I was capable of much more. The energy level in my body hadn't dropped despite this demonstration.
"Successful ability deployment," Chronos reported. "All parameters stable."
I smiled, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction with the result. My new abilities were now fully under my control.
"Excellent," I said, deactivating the energy barriers.
AIM
"What can you tell me about this device?" asked one of the AIM operatives.
At that moment, they were examining the data they had managed to extract from the Baxter Building. Their attention was focused on a dome-shaped device located in the center of Reed Richards' laboratory.
"Judging by the construction and materials, this device is clearly intended for high-tech experiments," began one of the engineers, his voice confident. "But we don't yet have specific information on its purpose or functionality."
"As far as I can tell," added another scientist, "this dome might be part of a more complex system. Possibly an energy condenser or a quantum interface."
"Unfortunately, our data is too fragmented," interjected a third employee, flipping through pages of extracted information. "We don't know how this device integrates into the overall system of Richards' lab."
They continued to study the images and diagrams, trying to find any clues.
"What if this device is related to his research on interdimensional travel?" proposed one of the engineers. "Reed Richards is known for his experiments in that field."
"Quite possible," nodded his colleague. "We know he's developing technologies that allow him to travel between dimensions. This dome might help him stabilize processes or increase accuracy."
"But without a detailed schematic, we can't say for certain," sighed the chief engineer. "All our theories are still just hypotheses."
They fell silent, lost in thought. The situation was challenging: they had access to advanced technologies, but without the key information, this knowledge was useless.
"We need to find a way to obtain more data," the chief engineer finally said, his voice determined. "If we can understand how this device works, we could significantly advance our own research."
They had spent more than ten hours studying the hologram sent by their operatives, but they still couldn't unravel the secrets of this dome. Eventually, they decided to focus on another task.
"These generators are truly ingenious," one of the employees remarked, examining another piece of equipment. "It seems he drew inspiration from Howard Stark's work."
Every AIM employee knew Howard Stark, a genius ahead of his time. They had spent hours studying his work, so recognizing certain similarities wasn't difficult for them.
"Look at this connection," the engineer continued, pointing to a schematic. "You can clearly see elements that Stark developed for his energy systems."
"Yes," his colleague agreed. "It looks like Richards adapted these ideas and perfected them. If we can understand how he did it, we can improve our own generators."
They continued to study the schematics and images, exchanging ideas and hypotheses. As time passed, their understanding of Richards' technologies deepened.
At that moment, on a level above, two figures observed them.
"Are you satisfied, Baron?"
"More than satisfied," the Baron replied, looking at the hovering creature that only vaguely resembled a human.
—\\—
"Still not used to it?" came the voice of Nicholas Joseph Fury.
Steve Rogers turned around to see the same man who once fought alongside him, though now a shadow of the friend he once knew.
"No," Rogers replied shortly, his voice filled with conflicting emotions.
Fury's single eye briefly softened with understanding before hardening into steel once more.
"Sometimes, I can't believe what's happening in this world either," Fury said, his voice firm yet tinged with regret.
Steve nodded slowly, looking around. The world he had awakened to after such a long sleep was both familiar and alien. The towering glass buildings, the advanced technology, the people—all part of a new era he had to learn to navigate.
"When I left, things were different," Steve began, his voice heavy with reflection. "We fought for freedom, for peace. Now, everything seems so much more complicated."
Fury stepped closer, his presence both reassuring and unyielding despite the sternness in his gaze.
"We're still fighting for the same ideals, Steve," he said. "But the world has changed. The enemies are craftier, the threats are global. We need you—your strength and resolve."
Rogers took a deep breath, acknowledging the truth in Fury's words. His place was here, in this new time, fighting for those who needed protection. After all, fighting was the one thing he knew how to do.
"I'm ready to see her."
The S.H.I.E.L.D. director had been waiting for this moment. No, it would be more accurate to say he had orchestrated it. Though Rogers was his friend, Fury's duties came first.
"Good. Should I come with you?"
Rogers shook his head.
"No, I owe her a dance."
"Alright. Just hope you haven't forgotten how to drive."
"Unless these cars have learned to fly."
Reed Richards
"Teleportation? Reed, you're making me feel inadequate," Tony Stark exclaimed with a grin.
I rolled my eyes at Tony's comment. At that moment, we were on the island where I had relocated all of my most valuable equipment.
"Yeah, yeah, your ego's bruised. Let's move on to more important matters," Ben said, folding his arms across his chest. "Stretch, I hope you've got a better reason for gathering us here than just showing off to Stark."
"Still mad because your favorite team lost again?" Johnny teased with a smirk.
Ben shot him a sideways glance, but before he could retort, I intervened:
"Let's stay focused. Tony, what did you find out from the equipment we recovered?"
Tony's expression turned serious as he activated a holographic screen displaying complex schematics and data.
"As you all remember, we couldn't establish a solid link between AIM and Hydra," he began.
The rest of us nodded. Bruce and Betty were aware of the situation, as they could potentially encounter these organizations, and peaceful life had long eluded Banner.
"I was hoping to dig up something on this organization, but I couldn't find anything concrete. However… apparently, I'm just so good that the universe decided to lend a hand," Tony continued with a smirk.
As he spoke, a company logo appeared before us—a name I recognized.
"Extremis?... I feel like I've heard of that company before," Susan said, her voice thoughtful.
I nodded, recalling the details.
"That's right, Sue. Extremis is a company supposedly working in the field of biotechnology. If I remember correctly, they offered you a job while you were studying and working at the Baxter Building," I added, hoping to jog her memory.
Susan frowned, concentrating.
"Yes, that's right," she finally said. "They offered me a position in their research department. But I declined because I was already working at the Baxter Building."
"What do we know about Extremis?" Ben asked, his voice full of curiosity.
"Unfortunately, the public knows very little," Tony replied, switching the holographic screen to a new set of data. "It's a private biotechnology company involved in cutting-edge research in genetics and nanotechnology."
The smug expression on Stark's face said it all.
"You found something on them, didn't you?" I asked, looking intently at Tony.
"You know me well, Reed!" Tony grinned. "I discovered that this company has certain ties to AIM. To be more specific, AIM personnel helped the company develop a new generation of virus."
Numerous images of Extremis at work, its development, and plans for its use flashed before our eyes.
"Extremis isn't just a virus," Tony continued. "It's a biotechnological marvel capable of rewriting the human genome. They're working on creating super soldiers, enhanced humans capable of incredible feats… But the virus doesn't create stable super soldiers. It burns out its hosts."
Judging by Tony's expression, he was counting on this information having an impact.
"We need to deal with them," Stark said, and I detected something deeply personal in his voice.
I looked closely at Tony, trying to understand what had struck such a chord.
"Tony, is there something else you haven't told us?" Sue asked cautiously.
Tony sighed, his confident facade wavering slightly.
"Yes," he said quietly. "It turns out my daughter, whom I didn't even know I had, is infected with Extremis."
I didn't need to see the faces of my friends to say the next words:
"We'll help you, Stark. Won't we?"
"I'd be a terrible person if I didn't try to help after hearing that," Sue declared.
Bruce and Betty exchanged a glance, silently communicating.
"We'll do everything we can too."
"If I left the people who hurt a little girl alone, I'd be a pretty lousy superhero, wouldn't I?" Johnny said with a light smile.
The smile on Tony's face was one of relief, knowing that his burden had been lightened just a bit.
"Thank you, all of you," Stark said.
"Save your thanks until we save your daughter and take down Extremis."
At the Same Time
Asgard
"…I just wanted to be your son," Loki said softly.
"Grab hold!" Thor yelled, reaching out to his brother.
They were on Bifröst—or what remained of it.
Loki, the younger brother of Thor Odinson, son of Odin, simply shook his head and let go.
Thor watched in disbelief as his brother's body fell into the abyss.
"LOKI!!!"
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Arcane_Eso
Stones for the God of Stones! Souls for the Throne of Souls!
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