Chapter 71: The Chosen People
Bang! Boom! Boom! Boom!
The bandaged fist relentlessly pounded the sandbag.
Captain America, Steve Rogers, found solace in exhausting his boundless energy in such physical exertion.
It had been quite some time since he had awoken from the ice, thrust into a world seventy years ahead of his time. Everything he had known and fought for had vanished.
There were no familiar faces, only a plethora of advanced yet alien things.
The world had prospered in his absence, but it no longer belonged to him.
No one truly understood him—friends, lovers, family, even that dance—he had lost it all, left with only an empty shell.
The void in his heart tormented him incessantly. He was merely a relic of the past, abandoned by time and the world.
Boom!
The sandbag finally burst, its contents spilling across the floor.
Steve sighed and promptly replaced it with another.
"Insomnia?" a voice interjected.
Steve glanced over and replied, "I've slept for 70 years, sir. I've had enough sleep."
"Perhaps you should go out, celebrate, see the world in all its colors," Nick Fury suggested, approaching.
"What is there to celebrate? Being alive?" Steve retorted.
"Do you come bearing a mission, sir?" he inquired.
"Yes, perhaps you should go out and unwind," Fury responded, handing him a dossier.
Steve opened the file and read the bold letters on the first page: [Black Superman].
Steve chuckled softly. "Superman? In my time, he was just a comic book character."
"Along with a bit of Batman, too. I must admit, I'm rather fond of that chap," he added, finding comfort in the remnants of his era.
"Be cautious, Captain. This man is extremely dangerous," Fury warned.
"Am I to deal with him? I'm just a soldier," Steve questioned.
"No, your mission comes later," Fury clarified.
Steve continued reading.
[Iron Man, Tony Stark]
"Howard's son? The world changes so rapidly," Steve muttered.
[Kingpin]
"So, he's my target?" Steve queried.
"Yes, our intel suggests that Kingpin is involved in biological armor trafficking and recruiting superhumans, within SHIELD's jurisdiction," Fury explained.
Fury wished he could grant Steve more time to adapt; however, recent events had left him restless.
Tony, unaware his early research had jeopardized their plans.
The Hulk, Bruce Banner, concealed by Stark, Peter Parker's failed retrieval, and a strained alliance with Stark.
Dr. Connors... best left unsaid.
Everything had hit a snag, with one figure seemingly orchestrating it all—Black Superman!
"And still, Black Superman eludes us. It's frustrating," Fury lamented.
Thankfully, their benefactors remained supportive, facilitating the construction of a safehouse—an uplifting development amidst the chaos.
Steve sighed. "Alright, I'll take a look..."
"By the way," Fury added, "I'll arrange for a partner you might know."
...
New York, Hell's Kitchen.
Two formidable figures—one black, one white—strode through the night.
It was Gwen and Felicia, the Black Cat.
"Where's the location?" Felicia inquired.
"Just two blocks ahead. According to my father's intel, it's a Kingpin stronghold. There's a significant gathering tonight, involving superhumans," Gwen disclosed.
Felicia had since learned Gwen's identity, an unexpected yet logical revelation. Apart from a select few, including a certain sixth child, Gwen and Felicia had grown inseparable, becoming close friends.
"Director's daughter, huh?" Felicia teased.
"Felicia!"
"Alright, alright. It's just the two of us tonight?"
"Mr. Stark returned from vacation with Miss Pepper. He mentioned joining us later."
"Oh... So, how's things been with Peter lately? Any updates?" Felicia swiftly changed topics.
"He's doing well. Mr. Stark values him greatly, involving him in Stark Industries' latest clean energy and World Expo projects, set to launch soon! He's even contemplating a move to the Upper East Side with my father's assistance," Gwen shared proudly. "And you? How's the Black Superman intel gathering going?"
Felicia's expression darkened.
During this period, Gwen had recommended Felicia to Black Superman—an act that now haunted her.
"Black Superman... He's not human!" Felicia declared vehemently, recalling the brutal training regimen she had endured to acquire her spider-sense, an experience she wished never to relive.
However, this intense training had exponentially improved Felicia's skills and resilience.
"So, it's just ahead?" Gwen redirected the conversation.
The two arrived near their destination, preparing to infiltrate.
Their plan was straightforward: gather intel on the superhuman criminals present and devise a strategic approach.
Little did they anticipate that their plan would derail from the onset.
Gwen and Felicia had subdued a group of gangsters guarding the rear entrance when they unexpectedly crossed paths with a man in peculiar attire—resembling Captain America and wielding a shield.
Unbeknownst to Gwen and Felicia, it was Steve, responding to Fury's summons.
To them, Captain America was a figure of seventy years past, unimaginable to encounter in the present day.
And in their minds, anyone dressed in such garb, especially amidst superhumans, was a potential adversary aligned with Kingpin.
Thus, without hesitation, both sides engaged.
Steve, skilled in various combat styles and armed with his vibranium shield, gained an upper hand initially against the unprepared Gwen and Felicia.
However, Gwen's unexpectedly heightened strength and agility, coupled with Felicia's agile strikes, began to overwhelm him.
In a brief moment of distraction, Gwen seized the opportunity to disarm Steve of his shield with her spider-silk.
"Who are you? A Captain America fan? Well, this shield... it's quite impressive!"
Chapter 72: The Chosen People
Gwen marveled as she examined the shield in her hands. "This is just like the real thing! Whoever made this must be a huge Captain America fan!"
"You'd think so! I mean, if someone shows up dressed exactly like him, chances are they're a fan," she pointed out.
"That's true," Steve conceded with a sigh, adjusting his shield.
Maybe he was really out of touch. His first foray back into the world hadn't gone quite as planned.
Were all young people today so exceptional... and so unique? The one in black with white hair, a hood adorned with cat ears, and a furry tail seemed alright.
While she had a striking presence, her agility and dangerous claws made her a bit easier to handle.
The guy in the white hood was caught off guard by the sudden burst of power. Damn, why couldn't he have grown into a muscular man? Maybe he was just a bit old-fashioned.
Although his technique still had some rough edges, he was very nimble and showed promise.
And then there was that spider-silk move—unexpected and well-played. Only through cooperation did they manage to catch him off guard for a moment.
"I'm Captain America," Steve announced.
"Um..." Gwen and Felicia exchanged glances. "We get that you're a big fan of Captain America, but maybe don't get too involved... it might not be good for your health."
Steve was at a loss for words. "Well, waking up after 70 years in ice only happens in stories. It's hard to believe it myself."
"I guess I'm a little out of touch, huh?" Steve sighed, shouting to the sky, "Sam!"
Gwen suddenly tensed, her spider-sense tingling with danger from above! She swiftly dodged, but the figure descending was too large, blotting out the night sky as it landed heavily.
She couldn't avoid the attack range in time, but fortunately, the target was just the shield.
Sam, also known as Falcon, retrieved the shield and handed it back to Steve, teasing, "Thought you had it covered, Captain?"
"I'm a bit rusty. Young people today are something else," Steve admitted, replacing the shield on his arm.
Gwen finally got a clear look at the newcomer. "Vulture!? Aren't you supposed to be dead?" she exclaimed in surprise.
Despite the drastic change in appearance—no longer green, with upgraded gear—Gwen refused to accept that this was anything but the original Vulture's biological battle armor.
"No, I'm not Vulture... I'm Falcon," Sam clarified, positioning himself between Steve and Gwen. "Okay, I think there's been a misunderstanding here..."
---
Meanwhile, on the other side of town...
Kingpin, the underground kingpin of New York, maintained a pristine public image as philanthropist Wilson Fisk.
His office, situated atop a luxurious skyscraper in an affluent area of New York City, was spacious and bright.
Through the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, he surveyed the city below like an emperor.
Yet, despite his opulent surroundings, his countenance was etched with gravity and concern.
His vast underground empire was typically under his control, but tonight was different. Tonight was significant.
His metahumans were convening to discuss their inaugural team crime.
Kingpin had recognized the increasing danger of superheroes banding together, necessitating a united front among super-criminals.
Forming a supercrime team was an ambitious yet promising endeavor.
After all, while superheroes fought solo, uniting villains could deliver a substantial blow to the status quo.
Additionally, by leveraging their abilities to conquer cities and territories, Kingpin could utilize his wealth and influence to shield them from legal repercussions.
Even incarceration posed little threat when he had the means to secure their release.
His trusted confidant, attorney Murdoc, oversaw operations tonight, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Initially, everything had proceeded according to plan.
After enduring the suppression by Black Superman, Kingpin had devised new avenues for profit and power.
But just as victory seemed within reach, everything threatened to unravel.
At that moment, Black Superman stood before him.
Well, not exactly stood—he seemed suspended in the air.
"Kingpin, long time no see," Black Superman greeted him.
"Black Superman..." Kingpin muttered, lowering his voice. "So, you saw me that night."
"Given your extensive knowledge of Superman comics, you must know Superman has exceptional vision," Black Superman noted.
Kingpin hadn't considered his obsessive study of Superman comics would one day be exposed to Black Superman himself. It left him feeling a twinge of shame.
His clenched fist loosened and tightened, but ultimately, he couldn't release it.
"I knew this day would come," Kingpin admitted, eyeing Peter. "Reality isn't a comic book. There's no kryptonite. Confronted with Black Superman, no one has the ability to resist, only to delay the inevitable."
"Oh? And yet you persist with your little schemes?" Black Superman challenged.
"What choice do I have?" Kingpin stood defiantly. "Will I surrender and meet my end at your hands?"
His feelings toward Black Superman were complex.
Initially driven to defeat him, Kingpin had obsessed over strategies to resist and eliminate Black Superman.
As time wore on, he came to realize his powerlessness against him.
Inevitably, he became fascinated with Black Superman's power.
Unconsciously, his mindset shifted, and lately, he lamented the scarcity of news concerning Black Superman.
In some circles, they might call this transformation a fall from grace.
Kingpin believed himself one of the foremost experts on Black Superman.
Now, faced with Black Superman in the flesh, he couldn't help but feel a mix of resignation and relief.
At that moment, Black Superman uttered unexpected words.
"No, I'm here to offer you a way out," Black Superman proposed.
Kingpin was stunned, his eyes gleaming with intrigue.
---
Back on the other side...
"Captain, you should keep up with the news more. Spider-Woman's quite the celebrity in New York now. She's saved the city several times," Sam informed.
"Sorry, I'm still catching up," Steve apologized.
After Sam's explanation, both Gwen and Steve finally understood—they were all here to take down Kingpin.
They were on the same side.
"So, you really are Captain America!?" Gwen exclaimed in astonishment.
"Yes, it's true."
"Incredible," Felicia chimed in, her ears twitching. "So, are you like, ninety years old now?"
"No, just slept for seventy years..." Steve replied wistfully.
"That must've been disorienting, Captain," Gwen empathized.
Steve paused, touched by her concern. It was the first time anyone had expressed understanding since his awakening.
It resonated with him, and he managed a faint smile. "At least I'm still alive."
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..." Gwen faltered.
"No, in a way, I should thank you."
"So..." Gwen turned to Sam, "If I recall correctly, the equipment you're wearing..."
Sam shrugged. "Sorry, I'm not entirely sure. This gear was provided by SHIELD."
Gwen frowned. It was hard for her to warm up to an organization that had tried to take Peter away from her the first chance they got.
She was about to press further when her spider-sense suddenly flared.
A shockwave rippled through the air, catching everyone off guard.
Chapter 73: The Chosen People
In the face of the sudden shockwave, each person reacted differently.
Falcon soared into the sky, while Gwen and Felicia dodged. Steve stood firm, using his shield to absorb the impact.
"They've discovered us. That shockwave just gave away Rhino!" Steve observed.
"It feels like more than that..." added Felicia.
Meanwhile, Murdoc emerged from the stronghold, tapping his cane as he stepped forward. "Seems we have uninvited guests tonight. Rhino."
Behind him followed Rhino, fully armored once more, Horror who had unleashed the shockwave, Sandman, and Purple Man.
"It's Spider-Woman and Black Cat!" Rhino exclaimed excitedly, remembering who had sent him to prison.
"Oh, they're old rivals. Where are the other two?"
"One can fly with wings, and the other... is a Captain America fan," Steve interjected wearily.
"Enough fanfare. Are you all under Kingpin's command?" He raised his shield, ready for action. "You're all under arrest now."
"It seems you two aren't exactly on friendly terms," Murdoc frowned, surprised by the unexpected provocation tonight. Facing so many enemies was unexpected.
Nevertheless, his team of superhuman criminals had just formed and needed to prove their mettle...
Stepping back, Murdoc gestured to his cohorts. "Take them down and show me what you've got."
Gwen hadn't anticipated such a crowded confrontation. Their opponents seemed far from ordinary, prompting her to take the situation seriously.
"Captain... I think we need to coordinate," she suggested.
"I have no objections."
"Then it's four against four now."
Rhino couldn't wait any longer. With Murdoc's approval, he charged straight at Gwen. "Spider-Woman!"
Unsuited with vibranium today, Gwen left it at Peter's place. Without its comfort, her training required she make do without.
She couldn't handle Rhino as easily this time without the suit, resorting instead to her old-fashioned tactic of using spider silk to restrain him. But Rhino's upgraded armor broke through her silk effortlessly.
Gwen was forced into a bullfight with him.
Meanwhile, Horror unleashed another shockwave, targeting Steve, who had just witnessed its devastating impact...
Felicia eyed the remaining two foes, one with a challenging purple complexion and the other normal-sized without armor or unusual skin. She took her chance to strike at the seemingly easier target.
Felicia lunged forward with her claws, only to find herself holding sand moments later.
Confused, she looked up to see the man turning into sand before her eyes, growing larger by the second.
"Uh... my bad, I didn't mean to," she stammered, turning to flee. But Sandman, now a towering dune giant, gave chase.
"Now it's just us," Falcon declared from the air, eyeing Purple Man below.
"What tricks do you have? Strength, speed, or wall-crawling skills?" he inquired.
"None of those," replied Purple Man, shaking his head. A sly smile crept across his face as he summoned a group of armed children.
"Damn it!" Falcon cursed, swiftly dodging as he realized the unexpected challenge.
This guy's proving tougher than expected...
And just like that, chaos erupted on the battlefield.
Gwen grappled with Rhino, Horror and Cap engaged in a back-and-forth of offense and defense, Felicia evaded Sandman's pursuit with frantic meows, and Falcon and Purple Man engaged in an intense standoff over moral compromise and human nature distortion.
"Asshole! You're using kids to shield yourself!" Falcon accused.
"Yes, attacking me means endangering them!" Purple Man retorted.
"Is that the best you've got? I can keep this up all day!"
"Spider-Woman! Ahhhh!"
"Meow meow meow, help! My mistake, someone, please distract him!"
Amidst the chaos, Murdoc observed with a hidden satisfaction. The plan, albeit chaotic, seemed to be working.
Gwen managed to maneuver Rhino into colliding with Sandman, while Purple Man inadvertently had his own forces target Horror with stray shots. Steve seized the opportunity to toss his shield and incapacitate him.
Gwen and Falcon quickly coordinated their efforts, neutralizing Purple Man by ensnaring the children in spider silk, leaving him without his soldiers.
Felicia, on the other hand, was pursued relentlessly by Rhino until Falcon swooped in and knocked him from the sky.
In moments, the villainous quartet was defeated one by one by the more seasoned heroes.
Murdoc, infuriated, clenched his fists and reluctantly took action.
He first targeted Gwen. Initially underestimating her, he quickly realized his mistake. Murdoc utilized all his skills, leveraging his strength and combat prowess to gain the upper hand against Gwen.
Seizing the opportunity, Purple Man regained control, commanding the immobilized children to aim their weapons at them.
"Move, and they die!" he threatened.
"..." Steve and the others hesitated, halting their assault momentarily. The villainous quartet took advantage, with Sandman growing to a towering height and delivering a devastating blow, scattering everyone.
Meanwhile, Horror, having gathered power, unleashed a charged blast at Falcon, sending him crashing down.
Rhino charged again, this time sending Steve flying despite his shield.
Using his acute senses, Murdoc subdued Gwen, preventing her from retaliating effectively.
Once again, the heroes found themselves at a disadvantage.
Adding to their plight, Purple Man emitted chemical pheromones that could hypnotize and control targets within a certain range, dependent on their willpower.
In previous exploits, he had exploited this ability to manipulate a female hero for years, leaving her with enduring trauma.
Now, he employed this tactic to overpower the children earlier and now directed it at Falcon, still reeling from the earlier attack.
"What have you done to me!?" Falcon snapped back to reality, but it was too late. His body was already under Purple Man's control.
"Attack the Captain America fan!" Purple Man commanded, forcing Falcon to engage Steve.
Meanwhile, Rhino, Horror, and Sandman teamed up to hunt down Felicia.
"Meow Meow Meow! Enough of this!" she cried, employing her agility to evade their relentless pursuit.
...
Chapter 74: The Chosen People
As Felicia leapt and dodged her pursuers, Steve found himself defending against Falcon's relentless and merciless attacks, a former ally turned foe.
Seizing the opportunity, Purple Man intensified his efforts, releasing his pheromones towards Steve.
Finally feeling the concentration was sufficient, Purple Man halted Falcon's assault and began hypnotically commanding Steve.
"Very good. You are under my control now... Drop the shield."
Steve stood motionless, his body stiff and trembling, resisting Purple Man's influence with every ounce of his willpower.
"What the hell..." Ziren was taken aback. He had exerted every effort to control Steve completely, but Steve's indomitable will thwarted him.
The Purple Man's hypnotic powers relied heavily on the target's will, and Steve happened to possess one of the strongest wills on the planet. Frustrated, Purple Man persisted, focusing all his energy on subjugating Steve and making him his puppet.
As a result, Falcon felt the control over himself easing.
Purple Man's diversion of energy towards Steve weakened his hold on Falcon.
Seizing the moment, Falcon struck from behind.
"Ah!!!!" Ziren recoiled in shock and anger from the unexpected blow, losing control over his two powerful pawns.
Steve and Falcon seized their chance to break free, but they couldn't afford to linger. Meanwhile, Felicia, cornered by three adversaries, was nearing her limits and in imminent danger.
Felicia had arguably made the most significant impact in the night's battle, managing to single-handedly neutralize three opponents.
"Uuuuuuuuuuuuu, someone, please come save me."
Quickly rejoining the fray, Steve, Falcon, and Felicia shared the burden, but they remained at a disadvantage.
The primary issue was Sandman's colossal form, impervious to the firepower Steve and the others could muster. Murdoc had even prepared carts of sand and gravel to bolster Sandman's powers, rendering conventional attacks ineffective.
This was the challenge posed by elemental superpowers.
Adding to their woes, Horror and Rhino continued to cause havoc under Sandman's cover.
"How do we take down this giant? Without dealing with him, we can't win!" Falcon shouted from above.
"Water! He's made of sand and gravel. Water will break him down," Steve suggested.
"But where do we find water?" Felicia queried.
"... x3" The trio fell into silence.
This was unfamiliar terrain; where would they find water?
Just then, a sleek figure descended from the sky. It was Tony, clad in new armor.
"Looks like someone here needs a hand?"
He deployed his armaments directly at Sandman, unleashing a barrage of missiles and overwhelming firepower.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
In an instant, the powerful area-of-effect attacks crippled the four-story giant.
Steve sighed with relief as he watched the spectacular display unfold before him.
"Alright, direct firepower did the trick."
Sandman sustained severe damage, incapacitated and unable to continue the fight. With Tony's intervention, the remaining adversaries were no match and fled in defeat.
Especially Purple Man, who attempted to assault Tony with his hormones, only to have his efforts thwarted by the steel armor.
Murdoc, witnessing his coalition's collapse, sensed the tide turning and contemplated making a swift exit.
However, Gwen intercepted him, declaring, "Now it's my turn to hold you."
"... "
In the end, all five members of the Evil Four were apprehended and confined together.
"A resounding victory, huh?" Tony remarked, glancing at Steve. "Why is there a Captain America fan here anyway? I've always wanted to gripe about it; his uniform looks like a Boy Scout's."
"..." Steve's expression darkened upon hearing Tony's comment.
Quickly stepping in, Gwen interjected, "Um, let me introduce you. This is Mr. Stark. Despite his... rough edges, he's not a bad person."
"Hey, I'm not done yet. I've got plenty more to say..."
"This is Captain America! Yes, the one you know from seventy years ago. He somehow fell into a deep sleep until recently and was awakened by S.H.I.E.L.D."
"Oh, really? He never mentioned you much."
The atmosphere chilled instantly as Tony and Steve seemed locked in a standoff, their strained relationship palpable, much to Gwen's chagrin as she attempted to mediate.
Felicia leaned over to Sam, whispering, "What's going on with them?"
Sam shrugged. "Who knows? Their relationship seems complicated—father and son, friends."
"Let's just focus on questioning these criminals," Gwen intervened, realizing the volatility of their current dynamic. "Which one of you goes first?"
After a brief exchange, they took turns interrogating the Evil Four.
It soon became apparent that these four were merely high-level enforcers, lacking significant knowledge of Jin Bin's criminal empire. The pressure then shifted to Murdoc.
"He's Murdoc, known as the Night Stalker and Kingpin's second-in-command," Falcon added smoothly, drawing from SHIELD's intel.
Murdoc's attempt to bluff his way through now seemed futile. His demeanor turned ashen; he knew that captured meant little hope, whether cooperative or not. Moreover, with his heightened senses due to blindness, pain was something he dreaded.
He quickly divulged, "Kingpin also goes by another name, Fisk..."
"I remember him. Wasn't he some sort of businessman?" Tony recalled. "I recall a bald, fat guy; his wealth is unmatched, but I don't know much beyond that."
"That's just the surface wealth," Murdoc added, a rare note of support for his former employer. "His underworld dealings far surpass that."
"..."
Gwen hadn't expected the night to go so smoothly, culminating in capturing Kingpin's true identity. With Murdoc's cooperation, obtaining evidence against Kingpin seemed assured.
"That's fantastic! We'll take them to the police station immediately, and law enforcement can initiate the capture of Jin Bin!"
However, Tony wore a peculiar expression as he looked at Gwen. "What's the holdup?"
"Spider-Woman, now that we know his identity and have him in custody, why not move to arrest him directly?" Tony suggested, advocating for a proactive approach.
"I'm not sure that's the best idea. It's probably better to leave it to the police..."
"Why should superheroes rely on the police to handle everything?" Tony countered, surprisingly finding support even from Steve, despite their differences.
"Let's go now."
As a soldier entrusted by Fury, Steve felt that Kingpin should be handed over to SHIELD rather than local law enforcement. Despite both organizations apprehending criminals, their approaches differed fundamentally.
And so, with the Evil Four secured and interrogated, they swiftly headed towards Jin Bin's stronghold.
Meanwhile, Peter, having captured Jin Bin, sat in the former crime lord's seat, awaiting their arrival like an emperor in
Chapter 75: Justice League
Gwen and her friends, some who could fly and others who couldn't, hailed a taxi, each relying on their unique abilities to reach the skyscraper where Kingpin awaited.
"Is this it?" Tony looked up. "If I recall correctly, Kingpin should be on the top floor."
"Uh... yes, Mr. Stark."
"Then let's proceed with our best effort?"
"..."
Steve and Felicia exchanged glances. The two who could fly soared into the sky, while Gwen ascended using her spider silk.
They shared a moment of mutual understanding in their eyes.
"It's quite something to be able to fly!"
"Take the elevator?"
"Sure."
Steve gestured politely, allowing Felicia to enter first with feline grace.
He followed, eyeing Felicia's fluffy tail with slight confusion but refrained from commenting.
*Ding!*
Exiting the elevator, they found Gwen and the others waiting.
"Oh! The last one's finally here." Tony seized the opportunity to mock.
"..."
A wry smile tugged at the corner of Steve's mouth. If circumstances allowed, he'd love to give Howard's rebellious son a lesson.
Shifting focus, he looked towards the solitary office on this floor.
"So, Kingpin's in there, right?"
"Yes," Gwen confirmed. "This is the final step. Though I don't have it either, I thought tonight's progress would be quicker. But please don't underestimate..."
"Come on," Tony interrupted with an eye roll, extending his hand to nod at everyone present. "One, two, three, four, five... five against one. Guys, I don't see how we lose this."
His words carried a hint of arrogance, but he knew everyone present shared his sentiment, including Steve.
Even Gwen, despite her cautionary tone, wasn't overly concerned.
After all, despite Kingpin's many titles and formidable combat skills, he was just an ordinary person in the end.
And they were five superheroes.
"So, let's go in, deal with the final boss quickly, and then head back home."
Tony stepped forward boldly, unleashing a blast from his repulsor that shattered the door before diving inside.
The rest had no choice but to follow.
Unexpectedly, Tony abruptly retreated, looking absolutely startled, almost colliding with the group.
"Hey! Stark, what's going on?" Steve shouted.
"Run... No, you guys won't believe who I just saw..."
Tony shook his head, ensuring he wasn't hallucinating.
Damn it! Why was he here?
Seeing Tony, who moments ago had been so confident, suddenly terrified, the others became curious and peered inside.
Seated in Kingpin's chair was a dark figure, looking down at them.
"You're finally here," said Black Superman.
"..."
Steve couldn't resist quietly asking Sam beside him, "Is he Black Superman?"
"Um... Captain, this is my first time seeing him, but I think so."
They exchanged curious glances as they observed.
Tony regained his composure. He was the most shocked by the revelation.
Damn it, could anyone understand the sheer terror of rushing in confidently to confront Fisk, only to encounter a menacing figure in a black hood?
He nearly had a heart attack! Didn't they remember he was still dealing with heart problems?
Of course, others shared similar thoughts to varying degrees and were equally unnerved.
Seizing the opportunity, Felicia stepped back, attempting to blend into the background.
During her time with Black Superman, she'd already developed psychological scars.
"I've dealt with Kingpin; you'll see for yourselves soon," Peter assured them, addressing their concerns.
"And the reason I'm here is simple. You are all my chosen ones. I've been observing you for a while now."
His words left everyone stunned.
Especially Gwen, who hadn't heard "chosen" in days, couldn't help but inquire, "We're all chosen? What does that mean?"
Even Steve couldn't sit still. "Wait, you've been observing me for a while? How is that possible? I just came from..."
"Don't worry about the details. Know that, as long as I desire it, all of New York is an open book to me," Peter replied casually.
"..."
Such a menacing and powerful declaration momentarily silenced everyone.
For the first time, they fully grasped Black Superman's capabilities.
Especially Tony, who understood firsthand the difficulty of monitoring an entire city.
He once tasked Jarvis with surveilling New York to gather information on Electro, but the sheer volume of data flowing through the city's networks was overwhelming, akin to a digital tsunami capable of overwhelming any computer.
At least for now.
Even with considerable effort, he could only indirectly access the information he needed via the internet.
Black Superman, in contrast, appeared capable of effortlessly managing it alone.
Steve also pondered deeply. His immediate concern was the threat Black Superman posed.
If true, did this mean that Black Superman could expose the United States' secrets at will?
Everyone valued their privacy and secrets, yet Black Superman seemed unconcerned, which was most unsettling.
If he wished, he could potentially incite a global conflict, akin to what Hydra and Red Skull had attempted in the past.
But Steve quickly dismissed the thought, chuckling at his own expense.
(Go to read the novel on the site: Novels Knights)
If Black Superman wanted to provoke a world war, his power alone might suffice.
He had reviewed SHIELD's assessments of Black Superman's strength, finding them almost unbelievable.
And... Hydra and Red Skull had been defeated seventy years ago, their threat long past.
"So, why have you been observing us?" Steve inquired.
"I've had an idea for some time, and tonight, I've finally set it in motion," Peter explained.
"What idea?"
Everyone was curious. This was clearly something Black Superman had contemplated for a while.
Then, Black Superman ascended into the air and floated before them, extending an invitation:
"Let's form a Justice League."
"..." x5
"Are you serious?" Tony looked bewildered. "Why form a superhero team like Nick Fury?"
"Fury... approached you too?" Steve asked, surprised.
Tony glanced at him. "Yes, they mentioned the Avengers, but I declined."
"If I recall correctly, the Justice League is from the comics, right?" Gwen chimed in, the only one focused on business.
Peter gave her an appreciative nod. "There are many reasons. With the rise of superhumans, both heroes and villains will continue to emerge. It's inevitable that crises endangering not just Earth but the entire universe will arise."
"In the face of such crises, you will eventually unite. It's the only way you'll have a chance to prevail."
"I agree it could threaten Earth, but the entire universe... isn't that a bit exaggerated?" Tony interjected.
"You know very little about the gods of mythology, other races in the universe, invaders, and even the concept of the universe itself, including parallel dimensions. These things will emerge sooner or later."
Peter calmly imparted these facts.
Tony fell into contemplation, his thoughts swirling.
Steve, too, stood firm. "So, what's the real reason?"
"To have fun."
"..."
Though his answer might prompt complaints, it was odd how Tony, usually quick to grumble, turned serious.
"Fine, count me in," he agreed without hesitation.
"Oh? That decisive?"
"It's simple. You, Black Superman, are the strongest among us. If there's a future crisis, being with you gives us the best shot at solving it."
Tony's mind raced with thoughts.
He bore a limitless sense of responsibility, shouldering burdens with ease.
If he knew a disaster loomed, he'd spare no effort to prevent it.
In many ways, he was akin to Spider-Man, trapped in the "great power, great responsibility" mantra that defined his life.
"And if there's no crisis, it's just for fun, right?" He added nonchalantly.
With the first member onboard, things seemed promising.
"Um... Sorry, I may not join your team," Steve suddenly declared.
"Oh, guess we don't need Nick Fury's boy scouts," Tony quipped dryly.
Peter ignored him, focusing on Steve. "Care to share why?"
"You know I'm a relic. I... need to return to SHIELD."
"Back to a place where you don't understand what's happening. Why keep torturing yourself in despair?"
Steve hadn't expected Black Superman to interject so abruptly, leaving him momentarily stunned.
"And were you doubting me earlier?" Peter asked, approaching Steve with a hint of condescension.
"What did you suspect?" Steve frowned.
"My abilities. Whether I could start a world war, conquer Earth, or become another Hydra. You know, I have that capability."
"Uh... Black Superman, you can't just..."
Gwen intervened, but Peter raised a hand to silence her.
Steve regarded Peter with utmost seriousness. Everything else aside, mention of Hydra, an old nemesis, stoked his ire instantly.
Peter chuckled. "It's natural for you to be skeptical in this era, Steve. I'll show you."
His words stirred Steve.
After a moment's hesitation, he spoke. "I'm sorry, I can't agree right away."
"No rush. When you're ready, visit Stark. There are many like you here, and you'll find good company."
"Hey! What's going on? I haven't agreed yet!" Tony protested.
"I am Stark's master!"
But his protests fell on deaf ears; everyone had tacitly accepted Black Superman's proposal.
"Now, only Spider-Woman remains. You're indispensable to my alliance."
"You, Tony, and Steve will be the cornerstone of the Justice League."
Gwen hadn't anticipated Black Superman's high regard for her, placing her on par with Mr. Stark and Captain America.
felt deeply honored by the recognition. In her eyes, these two were senior figures, true heavyweights.
One was a billionaire and super genius.
The other, a spiritual icon of America.
No matter how she viewed it, she couldn't compare herself to a friendly neighborhood superhero.
What puzzled her more was the absence of objections or opinions from Mr. Stark or Captain America!
Oh my God! How did this happen?
Gwen felt a bit overwhelmed, suddenly yearning to return to Peter's side.
Meanwhile, Felicia, who had been invisible for a while, struggling to remain unnoticed, couldn't hold back any longer. Raising her paw, she asked tentatively, "Um, am I also a member of the Justice League?"
"Of course," Peter affirmed.
This brought great joy to Felicia. "So, Spider-Woman's one of the Big Three, and I'm one of the Justice League's Seven Pillars?"
"No, you're a pet," Peter clarified.
"..."
Chapter 76: Stark Expo
The formation of the Justice League didn't create much of a stir.
It wasn't aggressively promoted by any of the parties involved, and since the team was just getting started without major incidents, it naturally flew under the radar.
Most importantly, Peter didn't force anyone into it.
They were all lone heroes, and expecting them to unite so quickly was both unrealistic and unnecessary.
The next day, New York was abuzz with another event that shook the city.
Early in the morning, the renowned philanthropist and businessman, Mr. Wilson Fisk, turned himself in at the police station, revealing his true identity.
He was none other than the underground kingpin of New York and the emperor of the American criminal empire—Kingpin.
Instantly, numerous media outlets reported various rumors about Kingpin, his past, and the crimes he had committed.
The young police officer who processed Kingpin's surrender was reportedly shaken by the experience.
"Yes, I deeply regret the crimes I've committed. I will spend the rest of my life in prison to atone for them," Kingpin told reporters, his hands in shackles.
He recalled Black Superman's words from the previous night, "SHIELD has come knocking. Your actions have raised their alarms. The only option left for you now is to build a prison for yourself and stay in it, never to step out again."
"What do you want from me? Why don't you just kill me?" Fisk asked.
"It's simple. Keeping you alive for now serves a purpose. I will end you, but not yet," Black Superman replied, looking at him.
"In this world, people are constantly committing accidental, coercive, eliminative, and clandestine acts. Some do so willingly, while others are compelled," he continued.
"In a broad sense, fighting crime is simply enforcing the majority's justice on a small minority," Black Superman explained.
"I don't belong to either group. In my eyes, they are all cogs in society's machinery. Whether good or evil, they each have their reasons for existence."
"A boy forced to avenge his family picks up a knife and slays his enemy. Legally, he hasn't committed a crime against my enemies. Whose fault is that?" Black Superman questioned.
"Only when they break the rules and target the innocent with their knives do they become my targets," he concluded.
"Except..." Black Superman chuckled. "As long as those who meet their end deserve it, does it really matter how many perish?"
He glanced at Fisk and added, "And you can organize these individuals into a group. Hierarchies sustain them, be it through violence or otherwise."
Kingpin sat in stunned silence for a few moments before regaining his composure.
He raised his head and smirked, "So, they were right, weren't they? What you do is play the role of the only god in this world who judges everyone?"
"The greater the power, the greater the responsibility, isn't that right, Fisk?" Black Superman retorted.
"Hahaha..." Kingpin burst into laughter, finding himself strangely captivated by Black Superman, even when the latter insulted him.
He had indeed provided job opportunities to many desperate individuals who couldn't survive otherwise (and not necessarily through arson, murder, or theft—many were involved in logistics).
Yet, he had also caused countless families to suffer.
Still, this duality in his actions didn't diminish his complex feelings toward Black Superman.
"I... I will surrender to the police tomorrow. I hope... I hope you won't disappoint me," Fisk said, trailing off.
Tony turned off the video interview about Fisk and asked, "So, how did Black Superman manage to make him surrender willingly?"
"You'd have to ask him yourself, Mr. Stark," Peter replied.
At that moment, Tony, Peter, Gwen, Harry, Felicia, Banner, and Connors were gathered in an office break room.
This room belonged to Stark Industries and served as a temporary meeting place.
The Stark Expo, planned for over a month, had finally concluded successfully today—though it had been delayed significantly due to Tony's month-long vacation.
Now, everyone was assembled. Connors glanced at Peter with a hint of admiration, saying nothing.
To be in the presence of Black Superman without knowing it was exhilarating!
"Dr. Connors, are you ready?" Peter inquired.
"I... I think so. I'll give it my best shot," Connors replied, taking a deep breath.
After days of debate, Stark Industries and Osborn Group had recently finalized their terms, even upgrading the healing serum to enhance stability and effectiveness.
The version released to the public would only cure diseases, disabilities, and injuries, with minimal side effects from enhanced abilities.
It was decided to announce this breakthrough at the World Expo—a grand and widely acclaimed stage that Connors would host.
This revelation was bound to cause a stir and raise numerous questions.
After all, Osborne's serum project had previously stirred much controversy, and Connors' transformation into the Lizard had been quite alarming.
But why should that matter?
Tony thrived on excitement and challenge.
In addition to this, Tony's core project—his vision for the future of Stark Industries—was clean energy engineering, designed from the ground up using new elements.
Interestingly, whether it was the World Expo itself, the serum, or clean energy, all seemed to tie back to Peter in some way.
The rest of the exhibits were mostly fragments of inventions and discoveries, with Banner contributing a few as well.
There was even an exhibition featuring Tony's Iron Man armor.
However, despite the grandeur of the occasion, Tony appeared troubled.
"Mr. Stark, you don't look well," Gwen observed, grasping Peter's hand.
"Oh, it's nothing. Just a little issue," Tony replied, wiping his face.
"Pepper's been on my case all day, insisting we start a family."
Gwen blinked in surprise. "Isn't that a good thing? She must really love you."
"Kukukukuku," Connors chuckled.
"Gwen, it's good for others, but for Stark, I'm not so sure," he remarked.
"Hey, Connors! Not so sure about what? I'm just... not ready," Tony defended himself.
"Miss Pepper thought Mr. Stark might not have much time left, so she wanted to do something meaningful..." Peter explained to Gwen.
Gwen widened her eyes, looking at Tony in disbelief.
"Mr. Stark, you've been on vacation for a month and still haven't told Miss Pepper?"
"Uh..." Tony hesitated, feeling embarrassed. "You know, Gwen, some things are just hard to say, you know?"
As he reflected on the absurdities he and Pepper had engaged in during their time off, he could already imagine Pepper's reaction when she found out the truth.
He might as well be signing his own death warrant.
"But hiding it only makes things worse," Gwen insisted. "It'll only get more difficult if it goes on like this."
Tony sighed, realizing she was right. "You're right. Maybe it's time to face the music."
The tension in the room was palpable.
The speeches at the World Expo began shortly thereafter. As Connors took the stage and introduced the healing serum, he elicited gasps from the audience and the media.
The serum's official launch created an even bigger buzz, drawing more attention and controversy.
"Mr. Osborn, aren't you concerned about consumer safety? Allowing the man-turned-lizard who once threatened New York to develop a serum... It's a disaster waiting to happen!" one reporter accused.
"No, it's quite the opposite. This serum will save lives. Thousands have already benefited from it. Our clinical trials prove its safety and effectiveness," Connors countered confidently.
"But he's a lizard..."
"Next question," Harry interjected smoothly, handling the press adeptly as Osborne's representative.
Tony stepped up next, delivering his speech on clean energy. Banner departed with his girlfriend Betty, Felicia slipped away on her own, and the others dispersed to their assigned roles.
Soon, only Peter and Gwen remained.
Chapter 77: Don't Whisper
They walked hand in hand, leisurely strolling through the exhibition.
"You arranged all of this? That's amazing, Peter," Gwen remarked, her eyes filled with pride at Peter's involvement with Stark Industries technology.
"I just did some minor tasks," Peter replied modestly, occasionally introducing her to various exhibits.
"Whenever you do that," Gwen would just smile brightly at him.
Peter noticed this and teased, "It seems Miss Gwen Stacy is more interested in me than in these gadgets."
Gwen chuckled, "Then please, introduce yourself."
"What do you want to know? Height, weight, favorite food, hobbies..."
"Hey! I know all that already!"
"In that case, do you want to go deeper?"
Their banter had a hint of innuendo that left Gwen blushing slightly as she playfully swatted his arm, "When did you learn to be so cheeky!?"
"I read somewhere that no matter how good a guy is, he can't resist being a little bad in front of the girl he loves. It's genetic, I can't help it..."
"...Hmm?"
"What's wrong?" Peter noticed Gwen's sudden pause.
Gwen didn't want to admit that her heart was racing because of Peter's flirtation—it felt too embarrassing. Instead, she bit her lip and countered, "Oh? And what about the girl?"
"I think it's because your cheeks are just too cute and a bit sticky, and there's this delicate aura all around you... just like now," Peter smoothly added.
Gwen was taken aback by Peter's unexpected twist. After a moment, she regained her composure and replied shyly, "I guess I can't deny that!"
"Alright, enough teasing," Peter said with a smile.
"..."
Peter fell silent again, leaving Gwen feeling both disappointed and secretly eager for more playful banter.
Annoyed with herself, she admitted defeat—Peter Parker always managed to get under Spider-Woman's skin!
"No fair!" Gwen huffed.
Peter chuckled, "It's rare for you to take a break. Finally, we can spend some time together."
Gwen's expression softened, realizing what Peter meant.
Lately, she had been consumed by her role as Spider-Woman—battling Electro, Kraven, Kingpin... it had been non-stop. Even their moments together were often interrupted by emergencies.
It had been too long since they had a normal date without the superhero drama.
"Well... last time we went out, we bumped into Electro," Gwen said with a hint of regret.
"You have nothing to apologize for. We made that decision together, remember?" Peter reassured her.
Gwen felt a wave of relief wash over her, grateful for Peter's understanding and support.
"Okay, today I'm all yours, Peter," she said sincerely.
"The whole package?" Peter teased, giving her a playful look.
"Hey! No whispering!" Gwen blushed, feeling a bit shy.
Peter was about to capitalize on his victory when his expression suddenly changed.
In the distance, Tony was delivering a speech about his clean energy project on stage.
First, he showcased his Iron Man armors, eliciting awe from the audience. Then, with a few witty jokes, Tony set the stage for his vision of clean energy, captivating the global audience.
The crowd cheered and marveled, knowing that Stark Industries was poised for a transformative leap.
Amidst the excitement, a figure in a heavy coat stealthily made his way toward the stage.
Tony noticed him and quipped, "Sir, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but could you please respect the order here?"
Security guards moved to intercept him, but the figure effortlessly shoved them aside.
Tony chuckled, "Looks like my fan is a tough guy, huh?"
The figure shed his coat, revealing a steel-plated armor underneath—a small Arc Reactor gleaming on his chest.
"Ivan Vanko. You can also call me... Whiplash!" the man declared, lashing out with a plasma whip at Tony.
Ivan Vanko's father, Anton Vanko, had once partnered with Howard Stark in designing the Arc Reactor. Their collaboration soured due to ideological differences, leading to Anton's exile.
Envious of Tony's success, Ivan constructed his own armor, intent on revenge.
However, choosing the World Expo, Stark's stronghold of superheroes, proved to be a tactical misstep.
Gwen noticed the disturbance but was restrained by Peter.
"Remember what you promised," Peter reminded her.
Gwen hesitated, torn between her commitment to Peter and her instinct to help.
"But... are they alright?" she asked anxiously, eyes fixed on the unfolding chaos.
"It's Mr. Stark's turf. He'll handle it," Peter assured her.
"Really?"
"Absolutely." Peter pulled Gwen closer, "Today, you're mine, Gwen. Time to relax."
Unable to resist Peter's calming presence, Gwen nestled against him with a soft murmur.
Meanwhile, at the booth, Tony deftly dodged Ivan Vanko's electric whip, which scorched the ground.
Tony grinned, "Alright, let's put an end to this quickly."
"Stop me?" Ivan sneered, cracking his whip again, "How? Without your armor, you're just a man."
Tony smirked, snapping his fingers, "Do I look unarmed to you?"
In an instant, four Iron Man suits descended from the sky, forming a defensive ring around Ivan Vanko. Simultaneously, Tony suited up in the fifth armor.
Ivan was momentarily stunned by Tony's technological prowess, his decades-long resentment crumbling.
"Five against one. I don't think so," Tony taunted, charging towards Ivan.
The Expo concluded amidst the chaos, but Tony's demonstration of his advanced technology and superhero capabilities left an indelible mark.
Later, at SHIELD headquarters, Nick Fury received footage of Tony's impressive showdown with Ivan Vanko.
Fury couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret. Tony had evolved beyond his expectations, not only with new elements but also with multiple Iron Man suits.
He cursed under his breath, "Damn it, Black Superman isn't just taking Tony from me; now he's eyeing Captain America too?"
Fury couldn't fathom why superheroes like Tony and Steve were drawn to this Justice League concept straight out of comics.
"Isn't the Avengers enough?" he grumbled to himself.
Agent Hill interrupted his thoughts, mentioning an interesting development involving lawsuits against SuperMan by Harlem residents whose homes had been damaged during a Hulk incident.
Fury scoffed, "A bunch of clowns making a fuss."
Nevertheless, Fury knew better than to underestimate the public's opinion. He remained vigilant, even though tracking Black Superman had proven futile.
Fury sighed, troubled by the uncertainty of dealing with Black Superman's vengeance. Even Kingpin, possibly the only lead, had retreated into seclusion.
It was a predicament unlike any Fury had faced before.
Hill then mentioned another tidbit, "But there's one intriguing twist..."
"What now?"
"Some legal proceedings are underway, gaining traction online. It seems Spider-Woman is being held accountable."
Fury grimaced, "Keep an eye on it. And if Black Superman shows up..."
"It's unlikely," Hill confirmed.
Fury sighed heavily, "If Stark wants to go, can we stop him?"
Hill remained silent.
Fury rubbed his temples, weighed down by the escalating challenges posed by Black Superman and the shifting dynamics among Earth's mightiest heroes.
Chapter 78: Court Session
"By the way, something unusual was discovered in New Mexico. Our satellite observed a hammer falling from the sky."
"Falling from the sky? When did this happen?"
Hill shrugged, "Not exactly. Upon inspection, it appeared suddenly tens of thousands of meters up, causing an electromagnetic storm."
"And after it fell to the ground, it couldn't be lifted by any means."
"Alright, now even hammers are causing worries," Nick Fury muttered, rubbing his temple. "Take control and let... Coulson handle this."
---
After the Expo, everyone gathered once again.
Tony, Gwen, Peter, Connors, Banner, Harry, and Felicia convened in a specially converted party room at Stark Tower.
Tony ordered food for everyone and popped open a bottle of champagne. Just then, an unexpected voice interjected,
"Sorry, I'm good with Pepsi."
"..." Tony glanced at Peter. "Kid, has anyone ever called you disappointing?"
"Just like how you love cheeseburgers, Mr. Stark."
"Fair enough, forget it, Jarvis, get this kid some Coke."
They ate, drank, and discussed the events of the Expo.
"Yeah, I think the all-in-one machine is still too cumbersome with too many limitations," Tony responded to everyone's inquiries about the armor. "I'm thinking of developing a model with ultra-remote control and automatic assembly and disassembly capabilities. Trust me, that'll be cool."
"Need any help?" Banner asked.
"Help? Nah, this is my armor. I can handle it myself."
"What about the Steel Legion? Today, you could probably command and control multiple suits simultaneously," Peter chimed in.
Tony frowned. "I haven't considered that yet."
Logically, having an army of suits could exponentially increase his power. However, it would undoubtedly provoke reactions from Capitol Hill. While they might accept Iron Man, an Iron Army was a different story. It wasn't just a technical issue but a significant political consideration.
Tony pondered silently.
"What about the guy who attacked? He... seems to have an Arc reactor too," Connors asked.
"His name's Ivan Vanke, and his father apparently knew mine... I'm not interested in dredging up old events."
At that moment, the news projection shifted to coverage of Black Superman.
"A Harlem victim is suing Black Superman, claiming he lost his legs during the disaster."
"This lawsuit has been ongoing for over a month, and now The New York court has accepted it, with a hearing scheduled soon."
All eyes turned to Banner simultaneously.
"Hey! I was there to save someone! Then he just attacked me for no reason," Banner complained.
"Um... we didn't mean it like that, Dr. Banner," Gwen quickly clarified.
Despite their loose agreement to form the Justice League, the news left everyone uneasy. Being heroes didn't exempt them from sometimes inadvertently causing destruction during major incidents.
But this lawsuit seemed to place all blame and economic loss squarely on their shoulders, despite their efforts to help.
Gwen felt disheartened.
"Ha..." Harry suddenly chuckled. "Why are they suing Black Superman? It's a bunch of clowns trying to grab attention while he's away."
But as soon as he finished, he noticed everyone's gaze fixed on him.
"What's up? Everyone," Harry looked around and explained, "I admit, I used to resent my father for his affairs, but I've moved past it now."
"Well, that's good to hear," Connors wiped his brow.
Odd, why was he sweating so easily today?
"Harry, relax, you're acting like a fan on TV," Tony added.
"Um... sorry, I got carried away," Harry apologized, feeling somewhat embarrassed.
"It's alright, human nature," Tony waved it off. "These things are never straightforward."
"Back then, just building the Arc reactor and the steel armor, and the military and folks on Capitol Hill were already up in arms. Imagine if it were Black Superman."
"You mean, it's a test?"
"Maybe."
"What do you think Black Superman will do?" Felicia asked anxiously.
"What can he do?" Tony shrugged.
"With Superman's style, who can do anything to him?"
At Tony's words, everyone suddenly realized.
Yes!
They had momentarily felt as though they were the ones being sued and heading to court, which left them feeling uneasy and somewhat down.
But in reality, it was Black Superman who was being sued!
Banner and Connors couldn't help but recall the impact of Black Superman's fists—it was painful.
Felicia also remembered the brutal training sessions Black Superman had put her through, almost to the point of breaking.
Gwen blinked. Despite Black Superman being a reassuring teammate, her personal experiences and memories of him weren't entirely positive...
She nudged closer to Peter.
And Tony, every encounter with Black Superman seemed to end without resolution.
"So," Tony spread his hands, addressing everyone, "If you ask me, we should worry about those guys."
---
"Do you think Black Superman will show up?" Felicia asked curiously.
"Why would he? I doubt it," Harry frowned.
"No, I think he will," Tony countered, glancing at Harry. "You don't know him yet, Harry."
Harry felt a surge of adrenaline, commonly known as a spike in blood pressure.
"Why do you say that?" he inquired.
Tony looked at Gwen and Felicia before answering.
"Do you remember what Black Superman said the night we formed the Justice League?"
"Um... that there may be more world-threatening crises in the future..."
"No!" Tony cut off Gwen. "He said he was having fun!"
"..." xN
"So," Tony shrugged, "If I were him, why not have fun?"
Harry squinted, suddenly feeling hostile toward Tony, sensing his position threatened.
Meanwhile, Connors struggled to contain his excitement, which was starting to affect his prostate.
He cast a quick glance at Peter, who seemed entirely engrossed.
Each person had their own perspective, discussing the topic extensively, with some finding enjoyment in it.
As for Peter, the one most directly involved... he playfully held Gwen's hand while engaging in the discussion.
Gwen secretly scratched his hand.
He scratched back.
Gwen scratched again.
---
In a certain prison,
Kingpin watched the news, his face flushing with anger.
"He'll come! He definitely will! Hahahaha!"
---
On the day of the trial,
The spectacle of suing Black Superman garnered significant media attention.
Of course, they knew Black Superman wouldn't show.
Even in New York's crime fighting, he rarely appeared, increasingly delegating tasks to Spider-Woman, his friendly neighbor.
According to reports, Black Superman seemed more active globally lately, though less frequent in New York, his impact spreading.
Starting from petty crime, terrorist attacks expanded to affect innocent civilians and nobles alike.
Yes, legally considered "innocent" in some eyes.
This sparked widespread protests.
His methods left people feeling insecure.
After all, who could be sure Black Superman wouldn't show up one day and deliver a swift, inhumane justice in their homes?
This underlay today's absurdity. Black Superman provoked some.
To some insiders, it was a test, a precursor to further assaults.
Attacks that could socially obliterate anyone in the world.
The media didn't grasp this. Some might have guessed, but few cared.
What they cared about was the spectacle and today's trending topic.
Trying the world's most powerful man in court seemed a turning point.
Though perhaps better if Black Superman had actually come to trial... some silently mused.
Beyond media, public opinion incited more.
Some simply gossiped, while others seized signs, demanding "Black Superman, get out of New York."
Let alone any underlying interests, these actions attracted another small but fervent group.
Black Superman's fans.
Both groups faced off with signs and words, escalating at times to physical altercations.
With no sign of the rightful defendant, tensions flared.
Desperate, court guards intervened, erecting barriers to quell the conflict.
Amid the shouting and swearing, one notable absence remained.
Inside the courtroom,
A black man in a wheelchair was wheeled forward by the crowd.
"Are you ready?" asked a white lawyer.
"Of course, ma'am," Jones replied after a moment, his tone tinged with sadness and anger. "Black Superman destroyed my home! He took my legs. I know this won't change anything for him, might even lead to his downfall."
"But I have to pursue this! To show everyone justice and natural law must not be abandoned..."
"Very good, reporters will join soon, just keep it as you are."
"Yes, ma'am."
Finally, after all the waiting, the hour arrived for court to commence.
Seeing the time, the lawyer remarked, "Looks like he won't be showing up."
Jones, practiced in his response, confidently declared, "Even if he doesn't, he can't escape everyone. Our trial!"
These images were broadcast live by reporters to major media and TV stations, captivating audiences nationwide, even sparking self-reflection in some.
Then, a loud bang echoed outside.
Before the courtroom could react, a tsunami of voices flooded in,
"Black Superman!"
"Black Superman's here!"
...
Chapter 79: God and Black Superman
Peter's arrival ignited the entire venue.
His fans saw their idol, Black Superman, in person for the first time and erupted into wild chants.
"Black Superman!"
"Black Superman!"
"Black Superman!"
Even some bystanders who were initially skeptical joined in the cheering.
His arrival was like the emperor suddenly quelling a noisy crowd.
People surged forward, gazing up at him, chanting his name, and reaching out their hands towards him.
Observing this, Peter faced the crowd, spread his arms, and gracefully ascended into the air.
His silhouette blocked the blazing sun, casting a dazzling light around the edges of his cloak.
"Ahhhhhhh!" Fans screamed even louder, some even fainting from excitement.
Watching the scene unfold on live TV, Tony couldn't help but comment, "Is he really that good at grandstanding?"
Boom! The courtroom door swung open as Peter floated inside.
At that moment, whether it was the judge on the bench, the prosecutor, the jurors, or the spectators, everyone froze, their faces tense and heads bowed.
Not only was Black Superman himself notorious, but the tsunami-like screams from outside moments ago had left them reeling.
For them, the visceral impact of such mass adulation was more palpable and unsettling.
Peter passed by them one by one, floating to the central deliberation table.
Instead of pushing open the small gate, he ascended to it and looked down at the assembly.
"You may begin," he stated calmly.
"Black... Black Superman," the judge, an elderly woman nearing retirement, had not anticipated such an eventful climax to her career.
Her voice trembled as she spoke, "Do you have anything to say to the plaintiff who accuses you of extensive destruction of public property, causing injury, and disability?"
"No, Your Honor," Peter replied simply.
His direct and polite response surprised the judge, eliciting a collective sigh of relief. At least it was a promising start.
The judge turned her attention to Jones and his white lawyer.
The lawyer reluctantly stepped forward, apprehensive that Black Superman might unleash a violent outburst and make a spectacle, which some powerful figures behind the scenes might secretly desire—an indelible stain on his reputation.
"So, Black Superman, do you admit to the charges? You have caused significant financial, physical, and psychological harm to my client, and you will face legal consequences!" Her tone grew more confident, even probing, though inwardly she found the situation unbelievable.
"No," Peter responded calmly.
This only heightened the lawyer's incredulity. This had to be the easiest case she had ever handled. She had not expected the famed Black Superman to be so... naive!
"Are you retracting your earlier admission, Black Superman!? You confessed in front of the court..."
"I have indeed injured many and disabled several," Peter interjected softly,
"They were all criminals—extremely dangerous individuals. They committed atrocities and harmed innocent people who should never have been hurt, so I intervened." He paused, then added, "I also harmed some who were not criminals. They used their power and wealth to commit further injustices and evade consequences, so I acted against them."
He glanced at the lawyer,
"Take you, for instance. You, madam, have used the law to persecute and oppress numerous families. Did you not ruin their lives?"
"This is merely my profession; I am a lawyer. My duty is to win every case," she replied defensively.
"In your profession, is there no distinction between right and wrong? Is there no room for conscience?" Peter sighed.
The lawyer felt exposed, a chill creeping over her.
She had indeed taken on many such cases, targeting ordinary and vulnerable people who lacked the resources to fight back. After all, why not exploit the advantage when money spoke louder?
She intended to argue, but her words faltered,
"This is my livelihood—I am a lawyer. My job is to win cases."
"There may be no good or evil in a profession, but individuals... aren't they important?" Peter's words hung heavy in the air.
The lawyer felt a shiver down her spine, sensing impending disaster.
She made the most regrettable decision of her life and hurriedly retreated from the courtroom.
Shock!
A heated gaze followed her down the aisle.
He dared!
The audience watching the live broadcast was stunned.
Could Black Superman really contemplate murder in public, before the entire nation?
A breach of law played out in plain view.
What else might he dare to do?
Onscreen, the scarlet glow in Black Superman's eyes subsided, leaving the courtroom—audience, jury, and judge—stunned.
Some among them contemplated fleeing, but witnessing the lawyer's fate gave them pause.
Guards rushed forward but halted at a safe distance, unsure how to intervene.
Peter gazed at Jones, "Now, it's your turn."
"No, no, don't kill me!" Xiao Hei cried out in terror,
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to sue you!"
"Are you trying to fabricate evidence?" Peter asked lightly.
"It wasn't me! It was them!" Jones wailed bitterly,
"The lawyer—she paid me to cooperate with them in suing you. They rehearsed with me countless times, just to get it right on camera, to say what they wanted!"
"Sob, I won't dare again! Please, spare me! It wasn't you who destroyed my house, but that monster! It wasn't you who caused my leg injury; I tripped and fell downstairs. You saved me—I would have perished under that green monster!"
"Please, spare me!"
In that moment, silence fell both in the courtroom and across the viewers at home, gripped by the unfolding drama.
They pondered whether it was Black Superman who flouted the law or if they themselves were complicit in its subversion.
The judge, trembling, raised her gavel and declared, "The plaintiff withdraws the lawsuit and pleads guilty. Black Superman... is acquitted."
She glanced at Peter cautiously, "You may leave."
With the lawsuit concluded, she would retire to attend to personal matters. Nothing could be more pressing than her safety.
Yet Black Superman remained motionless, suspended in the air.
He did not move, and neither did anyone else in the courtroom.
The viewers at home wondered what Black Superman might do next.
Then, suddenly, a group clad in black appeared on camera.
They replaced the previous participants—audience, jurors, and even the judge.
S.H.I.E.L.D. had finally arrived.
----
Chapter 80: Judgment and Black Superman
SHIELD takes control of the courtroom.
The auditorium, the jury box, and even the judge's seat were all occupied by SHIELD agents.
Although the setting appeared unchanged, the nature of the trial had drastically shifted.
Tension hung thick in the air.
Among the audience, Peter caught sight of Nick Fury. Fury was observing him with a piercing gaze, his thoughts inscrutable.
The new judge, a young woman with dark hair whom Peter didn't recognize, was likely a mid-level agent.
Despite the live broadcast and cameras rolling, some individuals couldn't risk public exposure and communicated through microphones.
Yet, holding this position at such a critical juncture conveyed significance.
The young judge was evidently unafraid, staring intently at Black Superman.
SHIELD's interrogation commenced without preamble.
"You murdered someone in front of witnesses, Black Superman. You're a killer; there's no defense," the judge stated firmly.
The statement heightened the already tense atmosphere. Its hostility was palpable to any ordinary person.
Can a hero still be heroic if they're a murderer? The question hung in the air.
"I only eliminate those who commit evil," Peter replied calmly.
His response was accepted, but it didn't convey his intended message.
"Nevertheless, you've violated the law," the young judge persisted, undeterred by the prospect of heat vision directed at her.
She had accepted the risks when assuming this role.
"And what if I can't be judged?" Peter queried.
"Do you believe you're above the law, free to judge at will?"
"The law is flawed, isn't it?"
...
The rapid-fire questioning was followed by a tense silence.
SHIELD agents exchanged hushed whispers, analyzing every word, trying to decipher Black Superman.
This marked the first meaningful exchange between humanity and Black Superman.
"What defines good and evil?" the young judge interjected suddenly.
The philosophical question puzzled many, revealing SHIELD's dilemma.
Unable to judge Black Superman, they sought to comprehend him.
"Innocent, kind people should be protected," Peter affirmed. "Those who work diligently and honestly each day deserve safety."
"Perhaps... unilateral action isn't the solution? You could collaborate with us and the government."
It was a gesture of compromise. Unable to stop Black Superman, their best recourse was to tether him.
"The law can be wielded as a weapon, but not by me," Peter replied calmly.
"Are you now at odds with governments worldwide, challenging Capitol Hill?" the judge pressed.
SHIELD felt cornered, some even considering seeking global support.
Peter remained composed.
"I'm not against anyone. If I threaten someone, they should ponder why they've invited such a reaction."
Peter smirked, "Believe me, you don't want to see me truly opposed to anyone."
"Are you a Sword of Damocles hanging over all heads? Instilling fear in everyone?" the judge questioned.
"Fear is a potent shackle; it confines all wrongdoing... I've shown mercy. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here," Peter warned.
...
Black Superman's frank words left them frustrated, incapable of retaliation.
As tension simmered, attention on the trial intensified.
SHIELD and others found the situation daunting. Some inexplicably sided with Black Superman...
The atmosphere grew eerily quiet.
Why couldn't Black Superman be as manageable as the comic book hero, vulnerable to kryptonite?
God, why subject us to this?
Must we inevitably face...war and destruction?
Those who flaunt their power aren't easily apprehended, leaving the majority to suffer.
"Have you considered...maybe, people don't need you?" the judge's tone softened, acknowledging a shift in perspective.
Unconsciously, she lost her initial resolve, realizing Black Superman might be onto something.
In a prison cell, Kingpin grew more agitated, pounding the table.
Across town, Tony lounged on his sofa, grumbling about Black Superman's facade, deep in thought.
Gwen...where's Peter? Where's Peter?
Amidst this somber atmosphere, at the peak of verbal exchange, Peter casually remarked, "I'm right here."
Whether they desired it or not.
Another moment of silence followed. Eventually, the young judge representing SHIELD spoke again:
"Do you truly aspire to become a god on Earth?"
"My abilities dictate a certain role," Peter replied.
"You should count yourself fortunate that I'm the one in this position."
Communication had reached a pivotal clarity.
Regardless of need, Black Superman existed objectively, an unavoidable presence.
They couldn't judge or control him; they feared him. Perhaps...they needed him.
Then, an unexpected voice interjected,
"Isn't it ludicrous for a human god to hide behind a mask?" the judge continued.
Their last resort.
So you wish to be the Sword of Damocles, above all, Earth's god. We can't contain you, we're powerless.
"But remember, even the most powerful man dons a silly bat mask. Do you hide secrets? Are you afraid to reveal your true self?"
As long as Black Superman roamed Earth, he'd remain entangled.
Exposing his identity would unveil these connections.
With ties exposed, even Black Superman could fall.
"I'm unconcerned with public opinion," Peter declared, gazing down.
"I've no qualms about removing my mask."
All eyes fixated on the screen, eager for Black Superman's response.
They yearned to know his identity, out of innocent curiosity.
Suddenly, they heard Black Superman's voice,
"Yes!"
"Yes!"
"We're ready!"
"Unmask, Black Superman!"
Countless viewers echoed in front of their TVs, brimming with excitement.
Even SHIELD agents were taken aback.
Could Black Superman truly reveal his identity? This wasn't expected. Was he risking his loved ones' safety?
But Nick Fury intervened swiftly,
"No, halt!"
His words left everyone bewildered.
Fury grimaced, "Humanity isn't prepared."
"Apologies, humanity isn't ready."
The young judge received the message through her earpiece, pursing her lips in contemplation.
Across town, Tony breathed a sigh of relief in his mansion.
Peter smirked at the judge, "What's your name?"
Daisy, caught off guard, stammered, "Daisy Johnson."
"Not bad," Peter remarked, leaving everyone baffled.
Then, with a thunderous crash, he descended, smashing the judge's bench.
The courthouse, centuries old, crumbled under his might.
Surveying his handiwork, Peter departed without explanation, disappearing into the sky with a sonic boom.
Nick Fury pushed aside debris, rising to his feet. Agents emerged from the wreckage.
The damage was minimal; they were trained to withstand such trials.
Approaching Fury, Hill queried, "What was his objective?"
Fury sighed, "Who knows? Perhaps he needed an outlet for his frustration."
In their negotiations with Black Superman, humanity suffered a resounding defeat.
He possessed immense power and an impenetrable psyche.
"On the bright side," Fury observed the ruin, "we have a justification for additional funding, don't we?"
...
Fury's phone interrupted the moment.
It was Coulson.
"What's the matter, Agent Coulson?" Fury answered.
Coulson's voice was tense, "Director, Black Superman has unexpectedly appeared here."
...
Chapter 81: God and Black Superman
Coulson had been overseeing an internal live broadcast thousands of miles away, gathering insights from colleagues about Black Superman. Unexpectedly, Black Superman appeared before him moments after causing a disturbance elsewhere, nearly startling Coulson to death.
He quickly dialed Fury to report, "Sir, he just finished wrecking my place, then appeared at yours the next second."
"Yes, sir."
"Alright, this is Superman-level speed," Fury marveled, then inquired, "What's his objective?"
"He's nearing the hammer..." Coulson glanced at the figure nearby and reported.
Fury frowned. Though unsure of the specifics, he knew that Black Superman with the mysterious hammer spelled trouble.
"Stop him!" Fury ordered urgently.
"How do we stop him, sir?" Coulson asked innocently.
Fury rubbed his forehead. "First, let's discern his intentions."
...
With no alternative, Coulson mobilized personnel for security. Though uncertain of its effectiveness, it provided a semblance of control.
Taking a deep breath, he approached Peter, who had just arrived after his New York escapade.
"Hello, Black Superman. This is S.H.I.E.L.D. How can we assist you?"
"I'm waiting," Peter replied calmly.
Coulson hesitated, "Waiting for whom?"
But Peter didn't answer, his gaze fixed on a window visible only to him.
[Mission: Clash of Gods]
As Black Superman, Peter yearned for a worthy adversary, a battle where he could unleash his full power. Reality repeatedly disappointed him; his strength made foes seem feeble. He grew weary of this monotony.
Driven by this urge, he even sought to challenge Odin, father of the gods.
Mission Objective: Defeat Odin, father of the gods.
Mission Reward: 50,000 points
This mission had surfaced soon after his battle with the Hulk. Peter had long understood that these "missions" were manifestations of his own desires, rather than mandates imposed by any system.
Since gaining his powers and the Superman abilities, Peter had struggled to restrain his might, longing for a truly challenging and equitable fight.
Defeating the Hulk had intensified this desire.
But as he grew stronger, finding a suitable opponent grew more elusive.
Peter realized that within the universe, beings of incomprehensible power existed. He wasn't reckless enough to challenge them outright, not yet.
Currently, only two individuals seemed close in strength and proximity:
The Ancient One and Odin.
Ancient One possessed too many tricks; a confrontation with her would be more frustrating than fulfilling.
Thus, Odin remained his sole viable opponent.
It sounded audacious because it was.
After all, Odin at his peak could subdue celestials in comics!
Yet, after careful consideration, Peter discerned that with adequate preparation, victory was possible.
Odin might be formidable, but age had taken its toll. His divine power surged over time, but his mortal frame weakened. Periodic Odin's Sleep balanced these extremes.
This vulnerability presented Peter with a strategic opportunity.
Of course, Odin was no pushover. As one of Marvel's mightiest gods, he posed a significant challenge, even in his advanced years.
Yet, Peter possessed one final advantage:
Now was the opportune moment, just as "Thor 1" was unfolding.
Thor would inevitably be banished to Earth, and Odin wouldn't forsake his cherished heir.
It was the perfect time to challenge Odin or gather vital clues.
Peter eyed Mjolnir at the center, remarking, "The true master won't be here for a while. Might as well enjoy myself in the meantime."
Coulson remained puzzled as Black Superman strode forward, grasping Thor's hammer's handle...
...
In a nearby town, Thor, Odin's son, finally reunited with his loyal companions.
A brief summary:
Trouble had led Odin to seal Thor's divine power and exile him to Earth. There, he encountered Jane and her team studying celestial phenomena, culminating in a humiliating tasing incident.
The tale unfolded predictably from there.
Thor, heir to Asgard's throne, fell for Jane, a mere mortal. Meanwhile, Loki, his adopted brother, harbored jealousy and betrayal.
In a daring escapade during Odin's slumber, the brothers wreaked havoc upon Asgard's sanctums and highways.
One could only imagine Odin's reaction upon waking to the wreckage.
But now, Peter's arrival altered this narrative.
Thor had already breached SHIELD's defenses once in pursuit of Mjolnir, only to find it cold and indifferent.
This rejection devastated him, a blow to his ego after a lifetime of adulation.
Yet, he bore the mark of a protagonist.
With Jane's tender care, Thor recovered mentally, unlocking hidden powers embedded in his lineage. Emotional fortitude fueled his growing might.
Heimdall's intervention enabled Thor's loyal Asgardian friends—the Warriors Three and his former flame Sif—to join him on Earth.
In a foreign land, reunion with his comrades brought Thor much-needed joy.
Their reunion, however, was short-lived as a sudden storm gathered, accompanied by thunderous booms.
All eyes turned towards the source. Thor, having encountered it before, recognized the location.
"Mjolnir!"
Though uncertain of the cause, everyone sensed trouble and rushed towards Mjolnir's landing spot...
---