[Marvel : The God Of Punishment] Chapter 46 - 50

Chapter 46: Nick Fury Beyond Gold Tier

Damn it, why does he harbor such murderous intent toward me? Fury thought frantically. Coulson is the one watching him, and Barton's the one aiming an arrow at him. Why does he hate ME so much? Can we switch places?

Despite his internal panic, Fury maintained his composure outwardly, not revealing any fear as he forced a smile. "I am Nick Fury, Director of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division. We are a vast organization supported by the five most powerful countries in the world. Our reach extends across the globe, and we serve as a critical force in maintaining worldwide stability and peace. There is nothing we cannot find when we decide to investigate, and no one we're determined to catch ever escapes."

Coulson and the other two agents exchanged confused glances. What was the Director doing? Why was he suddenly giving this formal introduction to SHIELD?

And bragging about yourself like this... how shameless, Coulson thought.

Nick Fury ignored their surprised expressions and continued, "Mr. Iron Man, would you be interested in joining us? We have many extraordinary individuals like yourself in our organization. Perhaps you could benefit from communicating and learning from one another."

Coulson's eyes widened instantly. A lot of extraordinary people? Boss, are you sleepwalking?

These words significantly dampened Jason's excitement.

Nick Fury keeps a pager hidden on his person, Jason realized. If I kill him openly, I might find myself obliterated by a meteor from the sky someday. If I want to kill him, I need legitimate justification! Whether the reason is sensible, correct, or factual doesn't matter—as long as it leaves Captain Marvel with now legal way to deal with me. At worst, I could just bow my head at Fury's grave and admit my mistake! No big deal!

Jason finally released Nick Fury's hand, leaving several pale pressure marks on his dark skin.

Fury calmly moved his hand behind his back and addressed Coulson. "Well, I don't believe Iron Man is someone who kills innocent people indiscriminately, so withdraw those dozens of snipers we've deployed around the area. Besides, I just remembered I forgot to turn off my gas stove at home, so you can handle this meeting for me today."

With that, he turned and walked away.

Coulson and the others stood bewildered.

Fury moved with surprising speed, as if genuinely in a hurry.

Watching his retreating back, Jason felt a profound sense of missed opportunity.

Suddenly, an epiphany struck him like lightning.

The system employed two criteria for determining target level: personal strength and social status.

Nick Fury's high rank clearly stemmed not from physical prowess but from his position as SHIELD Director.

Consider it from another angle—if President Darius Freeman were designated as target, what would his level be? Diamond or higher? There's something significant here!

Of course, assassinating the U.S. President isn't realistic, but there must be plenty of high-status, physically weaker individuals who qualify as target!

Having reached this conclusion, he turned his attention back to Coulson and the others.

Black Widow and Hawkeye seemed composed, but Coulson was visibly uncomfortable.

He forced a smile. "Haha, Director Fury really loves his jokes. There are no snipers around—I promise!"

Jason stared at him blankly.

The smile gradually disappeared from Coulson's face. He shrugged, pursed his lips, and awkwardly snapped his fingers.

A chill ran through Coulson's heart. Before the meeting, Fury had specifically instructed him not to display any hostility, so he hadn't positioned any snipers or additional agents.

But now, a thousand curses filled his thoughts.

The murderer before him had hundreds of lives on his hands. Even with Hawkeye and Black Widow present, Coulson felt deeply anxious.

Jason, still preoccupied with thoughts of high-status targets, waved dismissively. "What do you want from me this time?"

Coulson was relieved to get straight to business.

"Last time, you mentioned an impending disaster in New York. The Director asked me to inquire if any criminal organizations have recently offended you? Perhaps you could exercise some self-control and kill fewer people?"

Jason's eyes widened in disbelief. Is that really how they perceive me now? Such slander!

"Are you insane? I'm not some villain who murders innocent people! I'm a hero who executes justice and punishes evil! A HERO! Do you understand what that word means?"

Coulson nodded rapidly. "Hero, absolutely a hero! I'll issue you a certificate right away!"

Jason rolled his eyes in disgust, disdaining further explanation. "There will be a catastrophe in New York because the Hand, an underground criminal organization, plans to summon an ancient demon god! According to my intelligence, it's happening tonight!"

Coulson, Hawkeye, and Black Widow were stunned.

"Summoning a demon?"

"Those fools from the Hand may summon the demon god, but they can never control its power! Once the demon descends, New York will face unimaginable devastation—countless lives lost, rivers of blood flowing through the streets. Only one in ten will survive!"

Jason refrained from mentioning his suspicion that this demon was likely targeting him specifically. SHIELD didn't need to know that detail.

"Gulp!"

Coulson swallowed hard.

He exchanged glances with Black Widow and Hawkeye, speechless.

Pulling out his cell phone, he said, "One moment, I need to inform the Director about this situation."

He dialed the number.

"Hey, Coulson, what's that maniac planning now? Which unfortunate soul has offended our murderous friend this time? Is he on another killing spree?"

Fury's voice played clearly through the speaker.

"Sir, this is genuinely serious. Mr. Iron Man reports that the Hand plans to summon an Ancient Demon! If they succeed, all of New York will face catastrophe!"

Coulson spoke urgently. For some reason, he didn't inform Fury that Jason could hear everything.

"Summoning a demon? Is this legitimate or fabricated?"

Fury's voice stretched out thoughtfully. "Is it possible he's lying to you, Coulson? Have you toughened your approach with him? You're too accommodating. When dealing with a murderer like him, you should confront him directly! You see, I wasn't intimidated by him at all. This Hell’s Butcher Iron Man is nothing but a minor nuisance in my view!"

Coulson glanced at Jason with an awkward smirk, looking helpless.

Jason nodded calmly.

Black Widow and Hawkeye widened their eyes in disbelief. Coulson, you've turned to the dark side!

Clint Barton, ever the straightforward agent, considered intervening to inform Fury that the "killer" was listening to every word. But remembering Fury's recent distrust toward him, he hesitated.

Fury continued, "In my assessment, even if the Hand truly intends to summon this demon, Hell’s Butcher must be connected to it somehow! You should monitor him closely—he's likely trying to misdirect your attention! Ideally, I'd want a complete record of his daily activities, down to what he eats and what comes out the other end..."

"Haha! Director Fury is remarkably perceptive. The Hand indeed had plans for dealing with me through this demon summoning. But the people of New York are innocent bystanders. Do you really intend to stand idle? As for my digestive outputs, don't worry—I can package and deliver them directly to you!"

Silence.

Deathly silence.

"Beep, beep, beep..." The call abruptly ended.

Coulson smiled genuinely. "It appears the Director now understands the situation. Mr. Iron Man, time is of the essence—shall we discuss our approach?"

Jason nodded. "It's straightforward: find them and kill them!"

Coulson's eyes brightened. "What's the plan?"

"Step one: be prepared."

"Uh-huh."

Coulson nodded. "And then?"

"Step two: wait for the bald man."

"What?"

Chapter 47: The First Battle of New York: Avengers, Assemble!

8:00 PM, Midtown Financial Building.

According to intelligence from Alessa, this was where the Hand intended to perform their demon summoning ritual.

Information about the ceremony was kept highly confidential even within the Hand organization, so she had obtained only fragments of the plan.

A large square stretched in front of the building. Across the street, at the opposite end of the square, stood a structure over ten stories tall.

On its rooftop, Jason and his allies gathered.

SHIELD was represented by Hawkeye, Black Widow, Agent May, Agent Ward, and Rumlow—all under Coulson's command.

Jason's team consisted of Blade, Wade, Fox, Cross, and Wesley, with the latter three forming a sniper unit.

Jason's interest was immediately piqued when he spotted Agents Ward and Rumlow. SHIELD really does have an abundance of talented operatives!

Nick Fury's voice crackled through their earpieces: "Channel check. Can everyone hear me?"

Jason responded first: "Loud and clear! Hey, Fury, what are your hobbies? I know a reservoir with excellent fishing spots. We should go fishing together sometime!"

Everyone on the rooftop gave him strange looks.

Nick Fury, on the other end of the communication line, was equally perplexed. Who does this guy think he is, inviting me fishing? He'd probably try to drown me or strangle me with the fishing line!

"Iron Man, please refrain from discussing matters unrelated to this operation on the public channel."

Jason replied eagerly: "Do you have any private channels? We could chat one-on-one..."

"No!"

Nick Fury appeared to go offline temporarily.

Jason shook his head in mock disappointment, then caught sight of Coulson. With a mischievous glint in his eye, he sauntered over and draped an arm around the agent's shoulders.

"Coulson, how many years have you served with SHIELD?"

"Uh... over twenty years." Coulson looked bewildered by the unexpected question.

"So you joined immediately after graduation, right?"

"We... hadn't adopted that abbreviation yet, but yes, I joined the organization right after completing my education."

"From that perspective, you've made tremendous contributions. Have you ever considered taking a significant leap forward in your career?"

Coulson's eyes widened in alarm. He hastily covered his communication device. "What the hell are you talking about? I harbor no such outlandish ambitions. My loyalty to the Director transcends all boundaries—"

"What are you afraid of? He's offline."

Coulson shook his head vigorously. You're too naive. Our Director is an old, cunning... experienced agent who always has contingency plans. He's undoubtedly monitoring us through some alternate method!

Seeing Coulson's apprehension, Jason reluctantly released him but remained persistent.

"Tomorrow night, 8:30, there's an excellent restaurant in Chinatown. Interested in a friendly conversation?"

Before Coulson could respond, Fury's voice reverberated through their headsets: "I repeat, do not discuss matters unrelated to this operation on the public channel! Additionally, there are approximately a dozen unfortunate employees working overtime in the financial building. Coulson! Extract them immediately without alerting the enemy! Otherwise... your situation could become extremely precarious!"

Coulson's face drained of color as he cast a reproachful glance at Jason. "Damn it, this high-risk operation wasn't even supposed to be my assignment!"

Jason's eyes widened dramatically. He shouted into the channel: "Listen here, Nick ‘Moth******ing’ Fury! Coulson is my half-brother. If anything happens to him, I will personally ensure vengeance, regardless of who comes to his aid!"

After his outburst, he surveyed the confused faces around him and snorted defiantly.

Then, brightening suddenly, he clapped his hands together. "Everyone, meeting like this is destiny! Since we're fortunate enough to share this mission, I propose we establish a group name!"

The others regarded him with bewilderment, but Jason remained undeterred. "Any suggestions?"

Wade stroked his chin thoughtfully. "How about... 'Wade and His Boys'?"

Jason pointed accusingly. "You've just forfeited your right to speak. Next!"

Black Widow and Hawkeye exchanged glances, but neither volunteered an alternative.

"Alright, I'll handle the naming ourselves. From this moment forward, we shall be known as The Avengers! I'll serve as alliance leader, and you're all official members. Greetings, Avengers!"

Meanwhile, Nick Fury, orchestrating the operation behind the scenes, was carefully raising a steaming cup of coffee to his lips.

When he heard the name "Avengers," he jolted with shock and instinctively took a large gulp to regain composure.

"PFFFT—"

In his alarm, coffee sprayed everywhere, with hot liquid cascading directly onto his most sensitive areas. "DAMN IT! No, my—"

Listening to what sounded like chaos through their headsets, everyone on the rooftop exchanged puzzled glances.

"Haha!" Jason smirked knowingly.

Coulson prepared to enter the building as everyone divided responsibilities.

Fox and her two companions assumed positions as long-range snipers, providing cover fire.

SHIELD agents coordinated with the New York Police Department, which had been notified well in advance, establishing three defensive perimeters around the building.

Jason, Wade, Blade, Black Widow, Hawkeye, May, Ward, Rumlow, and others formed the assault team.

As personnel moved into position, Jason felt his cell phone vibrate. A message from David read simply: "Ready."

At that moment, he sensed an inexplicable energy emanating from the target building.

The Hand's summoning ceremony had likely commenced.

It seems the Ancient One won't be joining us. Such negligence!

Suddenly, intense gunfire erupted from within the building. Coulson's panicked voice filled the communication channel: "They're not human! Retreat, retreat immediately!"

"Coulson! Report!" Fury demanded anxiously.

"They turn to ash when they die! There are too many—we can't hold them back!"

"Fall back to the exit! Snipers, prepare to engage! All personnel, lock and load!"

From his vantage point, Jason could clearly observe Coulson and several surviving agents frantically sprinting toward the lobby exit.

Behind them surged a horde of eerily swift ninjas clad in red, armed with an assortment of bladed weapons—knives, swords, and halberds.

The Hand's Shadow Ninjas!

"BANG! BANG!"

Fox and her companions opened fire. When bullets struck the ninjas, they instantly disintegrated into ash!

Somewhat reminiscent of vampires, yet distinctly different.

Most alarmingly, within mere seconds, hundreds of ninjas had poured from the building's first-floor lobby!

They seemed endless, with no sign of diminishing numbers.

Something was terribly wrong.

These ninjas possessed extraordinary physical capabilities and combat awareness.

Once they dispersed from the building entrance into the surrounding neighborhood, the defensive line formed by SHIELD and NYPD personnel would prove woefully inadequate.

Everyone witnessing this development gasped in dismay.

The Hand must have anticipated their intervention and created this ninja army specifically to counter them!

Gunfire intensified as bullets streamed toward the building exit. Despite creating clouds of ash as ninjas were hit, the overall effectiveness remained discouraging.

Coulson, clutching his wounded arm, made his way toward their position with difficulty.

Jason took a deep breath. "Fury, where are your helicarriers and fighter jets? Call them in and obliterate these things!"

Nick Fury sighed heavily. "It's too late. The helicarrier is stationed far out at sea. These monsters will breach our defensive line within minutes! Getting the U.S. government to authorize a bombing run on Manhattan—those bureaucrats couldn't reach a decision in hours of deliberation! Even if I scrambled fighters without authorization, New York's air defenses would prevent their approach."

Jason rolled his eyes impatiently. "So what's your heaviest available firepower right now?"

"RPGs and... vehicle-mounted M134 rapid-fire machine guns."

M134 rapid-fire machine gun?

Jason instantly accessed his system interface. The master-level skill upgrade card activated, transforming into a beam of light. Within moments, his skill bar updated: Assault Rifle Proficiency → Assault Rifle Master.

"Well, well. Nick Fury, you are one lucky dude~"

"What?"

"I need your gun!"

"Which gun?"

Jason's face split into a wolfish grin. Of course, he would become the Gatling Bodhisattva, firing 3,600 rounds per minute and saving the world with devastating firepower disguised as compassion!

Chapter 48: The First Battle of New York: Dadada!

Jason leapt from the rooftop with acrobatic precision.

His dagger carved a streak of sparks against the wall as he descended, his movements fluid and graceful despite the urgency of the situation.

Crossing the wide street at full sprint, he reached the square fronting the financial building. With dual pistols drawn, he unleashed a barrage of bullets. While insufficient to eliminate the ninja horde entirely, his fire suppressed their advance momentarily.

Behind him, a black tactical van—shielded by concentrated covering fire—executed a perfect drift maneuver before screeching to a halt at his position.

The side door slid open to reveal a matte-black six-barrel Gatling gun.

"Sir, M134 is in position!"

Jason backpedaled to the vehicle, gripping the massive weapon as its hinges produced a mechanical symphony of "click, click, click" when he rotated it toward the target.

Observing the crimson-clad ninjas rushing toward him, a predatory smile spread across his face.

According to his system, these shadow ninja all registered as Bronze-tier target.

This harvest might prove even more bountiful than the vampire blood feast he'd previously enjoyed!

With a mere thought, he activated his compound eyes ability for enhanced targeting.

"Da da da!"

Six pitch-black gun barrels erupted with blazing projectiles!

In that instant, the square transformed into a hellscape.

Dust clouds billowed skyward, fragments of concrete and gravel flew in all directions, and the cacophony of sustained fire echoed like the wails of tormented spirits!

The shadow ninjas showed no fear, continuing to surge from the building's lobby, but the river of tracer rounds held them at bay—a blazing serpent of firepower devouring everything in its path.

...

In the financial building's underground parking garage, an altar adorned with intricate arcane patterns pulsed with unholy light.

With each flash, more red-clad ninjas materialized. Their wooden expressions remained unchanged as they moved with uncanny precision toward the stairwells, forming an endless procession of undead warriors.

Beneath this altar lay a second subterranean level.

There, a circle of priests wearing crimson ghost masks and scarlet robes surrounded Daredevil, their voices rising in an eldritch chant.

Kingpin and key members of the Hand observed from the periphery.

Wilson Fisk wore his signature white suit and leaned slightly on his customary cane. His brow furrowed as his gaze repeatedly returned to two familiar figures nearby—Murakami and Sowande!

Two individuals who should have been killed by Hell’s Butcher!

He had consulted his police informant about the incident. According to officers who processed the scene, the lower bodies of both men had been completely obliterated!

Yet somehow, they stood here now, restored to life.

A man in a blue suit burst into the chamber, panic evident in his movements. "Boss, we have a situation! The Shadow Ninjas are being contained! That Iron Man is devastating our forces—his gunfire is preventing them from leaving the building!"

Madam Gao looked puzzled. "A gun? How is this possible?"

The blue-suited man clarified: "He's using... a Gatling gun!"

Everyone present froze in astonishment.

"I've never witnessed such precise machine gun operation—his hit rate is at least thirty percent, it's unprecedented! The ninjas are regenerating at an accelerated rate, but the resurrection altar will soon be overwhelmed!"

Alexandra, leader of the Five Fingers, remained silent momentarily before turning toward a figure lurking in the shadows.

The man stood shirtless, his chest adorned with an intricate black wolf spider tattoo that seemed to pulse with dark energy.

"La Muerto, Black Wolf Spider, I've summoned you from across continents. It's time to demonstrate your worth."

The man acknowledged with a silent nod before stalking toward the exit.

Alexandra, visibly confident in his capabilities, returned her attention to the ceremony.

Before them, the summoning ritual approached its climax.

“…the flesh of that which waits in the dark, the thing that hungers for the end of mankind—the god of shadows… come forth!”

One of the priests ripped away his crimson mask, revealing a withered, time-worn face framed by a crown of white hair and beard. From his outstretched hands poured tendrils of black mist, curling like living smoke as he bellowed:

“Spell of the Forsaken Soul! Take this offering—claim this flawless vessel! Rise and rule! Let the age of man be shattered. None shall survive… but the Snakeroot!”

An indescribable force descended upon the chamber.

Daredevil, trapped within the circle of priests, released an agonized scream as his body contorted unnaturally—as though something alien were burrowing into his very essence.

Witnessing this nightmarish spectacle, Kingpin felt his heart falter.

Could these Hand mystics truly channel demonic power? What is their actual endgame?

While lost in thought, he failed to notice the Five Fingers exchanging secretive glances, their eyes gleaming with anticipation.

...

The M134 continued disgorging its hellfire, while the ninjas pressed forward with the relentless determination of rabid wolverines.

In Jason's mind, system notifications chimed incessantly. "Ding ding ding ding..."

The sound resembled a perfect symphony accompanying his destruction.

Even while maintaining his barrage, he managed to access and open all accumulated gift packages.

Information cascaded through his consciousness.

[Congratulations on receiving the reward: Free attribute points: 4]

[Congratulations on receiving the reward: Aircraft Carrier Pilot Proficiency]

One more reason to kill Nick Fury eventually!

...

[Congratulations on triggering the first thirty kill streak reward, free attribute points: 30]

Damn, these kill streak rewards are satisfying!

[Congratulations on receiving the reward: Free attribute points: 5]

[Congratulations on triggering the first fifty kill streak reward, free attribute points: 50]

Double score!

...

After processing all bronze gift packages and kill streak rewards, Jason had acquired three new skills and hundreds of attribute points!

Aircraft Carrier Pilot Proficiency, CAD proficiency, and 108 free attribute points!

A veritable windfall of power!

Just as he savored his newfound strength, he spotted an anomalous figure among the charging ninjas.

The system immediately flagged the target: Gold-level target!

The newcomer was bare-chested, a black wolf spider tattoo emblazoned across his torso. His movements betrayed superhuman speed, clearly exceeding normal human limitations.

Unlike the mindless ninjas, he employed tactical movement, using the red-clad horde as mobile cover while weaving left and right.

After emerging from the lobby, he ignored Jason completely, cutting diagonally across the square toward the blockade positioned on the flank.

Recognizing the threat, Jason swiveled his weapon, directing a concentrated stream of fire at the Black Wolf Spider's heels.

But the enhanced assassin displayed extraordinary agility and strength. With a single devastating punch, he shattered a stone planter, then effortlessly hurled a boulder weighing hundreds of kilograms directly at Jason!

"CRACK!"

Jason rapidly redirected the Gatling gun like an anti-aircraft battery, pulverizing the projectile before it could strike the van.

During this momentary distraction, Black Wolf Spider had already reached the first defensive line.

Screams soon erupted from the perimeter.

Nick Fury's voice thundered through their comms: "What kind of monster is this? Can anyone neutralize him?"

Jason glimpsed a shadow streaking through the air—one of Hawkeye's arrows. It appeared to strike the target, but Black Wolf Spider continued unimpeded.

Jason's expression darkened. He was certain the assassin had absorbed multiple direct hits from his weapon.

Yet the man showed no signs of injury.

These were 7.62mm rounds!

Combined with the casual display of throwing multi-hundred-kilogram rocks while maintaining sprint velocity, the target clearly possessed terrifying physical strength!

Jason struggled to acquire a targeting solution as trees, planters, and vehicles constantly obscured his line of sight, eliminating viable shooting angles.

Within seconds, several police cruisers were hurled skyward, landing with pinpoint accuracy on key firing positions along the first defensive line.

Upon impact, devastating explosions erupted.

Screams filled the night as the front line collapsed in mere moments.

Those modified police cruisers weigh nearly three tons each, and he's throwing them like toys. This Black Wolf Spider must possess strength exceeding five tons at minimum!

Is this truly the power of a gold-level target?

Black Widow is also gold-level, but her status as SHIELD's elite operative must significantly factor into her classification!

Jason suddenly realized that despite the apparently random carnage, the assassin's movement pattern suggested a clear objective—himself!

Blade, Hawkeye, Black Widow, and others attempted interception, but the Black Wolf Spider inexorably closed the distance!

Damn it!

Jason immediately communicated with his system, allocating all 108 free attribute points to strength!

Instantly, his strength parameter reached 169!

With dragon chi enhancement, his strength could momentarily exceed five tons!

But would it be enough?

He checked his system:

Iron-tier target: 3/37

Bronze-tier Target: 12/49

Silver-tier target: 1/5

Gold-tier target: 0/1

Decisively, he swung the Gatling gun away from the approaching Black Wolf Spider, refocusing on the shadow ninjas!

"DA DA DA!"

From his peripheral vision, Jason observed the Black Wolf Spider launch into a powerful leap, hurtling toward him like a missile. His expression remained unchanged.

The system notification chimed as expected.

[Ding, congratulations on obtaining the Thousand Kills achievement: Special Achievement Pack.]

Chapter 49: The First Battle of New York: Harnessing Thunder

A satisfied smile spread across Jason's face. This was precisely the moment he'd been waiting for!

He immediately opened the achievement pack.

[Congratulations on receiving the rewards: Ability Upgrade Card, Bloodline Fusion Card]

Without hesitation, he activated the ability upgrade card.

Then, with a thought, he channeled his power and exploded into action!

He launched himself skyward like a predatory tiger, intercepting the Black Wolf Spider mid-air!

The two hurtled toward each other with breathtaking speed. Jason could clearly see the ferocity blazing in his opponent's eyes.

A contemptuous sneer played at the corner of the assassin's mouth, as if mocking Jason's audacity.

But Jason wore an identical expression of confidence.

The instant before collision, a dazzling white flash erupted directly in front of the Black Wolf Spider's face. In a heartbeat, his entire field of vision transformed into blinding whiteness!

Panic surged through him as his sight vanished. In the next moment, he felt the air compress around him before a devastating punch connected with his face!

All his own attacks struck nothing but empty air.

As excruciating pain radiated from his shattered cheekbone, the tremendous impact launched his body backward. He tumbled uncontrollably before crashing violently into the pavement!

Fortunately, his enhanced physiology allowed his vision to partially recover within seconds. Through the haze, he discerned several silver serpents streaking toward him through the darkness.

The next instant, extreme pain and paralyzing numbness engulfed his entire body!

His skin began to rupture, blood immediately pouring from countless fissures as his bones creaked ominously, threatening to shatter at any moment.

Only then did he realize what he had witnessed were not silver serpents but powerful lightning bolts!

Sensing another imminent attack, his overwhelming survival instinct triggered a desperate surge of strength. He slammed his palm against the ground, propelling himself skyward.

His thigh muscles compressed with unprecedented force, the explosive power creating a small crater in the concrete beneath him.

Moving with the velocity of a bullet, he instantly dove into the throng of red-clad ninjas.

A split-second later, Jason's lightning attack arrived as anticipated.

Dozens of electric bolts tracked the Black Wolf Spider relentlessly, crashing into the ninja crowd. In an instant, hundreds of shadow warriors disintegrated into swirling ash!

Every witness stood stunned by the display.

The entire confrontation had lasted mere seconds, yet left everyone breathless.

Nick Fury swallowed hard. The Black Wolf Spider's strength had already astonished him greatly, but Iron Man's abilities were even more shocking.

What the hell! If you possessed this power all along, why not display it earlier? Why would I have wasted resources trying to apprehend you? Too late for regrets now—this guy is definitely an omega-level asset!

Wade, Blade, and Black Widow had positioned themselves together, intending to intercept the Black Wolf Spider, but had failed.

Observing the silver-white lightning storm nearby, Wade's eyes widened in awe. "My God, he's literally the legendary Thunder God!"

Blade's eyes bulged in disbelief. Damn it! You had this capability all along? Why didn't you use it against Frost? Did you think I hadn't been beaten badly enough?

The other onlookers remained equally dumbfounded.

In an era when superheroes had not yet revealed themselves to the world en masse, Jason had provided them a startling glimpse of supernatural power.

Meanwhile, Jason observed the hundreds of ninjas reduced to ash with clinical detachment rather than excitement.

He'd clearly seen that the Black Wolf Spider had survived.

His opponent had demonstrated keen tactical intelligence. By diving into the crowd, he'd ensured the lightning's power dispersed among many targets. After annihilating hundreds of ninjas, the residual energy inflicted minimal damage to him personally.

Now, amid swirling ash, the Black Wolf Spider stood calmly before the building entrance.

He produced a small bottle containing black liquid from somewhere on his person and drained it in a single gulp.

Instantly, the wolf spider tattoo on his chest illuminated from within. The arachnid's legs twitched slightly, as though the ink had suddenly animated.

His injuries healed with remarkable speed as his aura intensified—becoming even more formidable than before the confrontation!

Jason's expression grew solemn.

He had unhesitatingly upgraded [Electrokinesis].

This significantly enhanced his ability to store and discharge lightning energy. His [Electrokinesis] had allowed hundreds of minor lightning discharges.

However, the devastating lightning blast he'd just unleashed—powerful enough to annihilate hundreds of Bronze-tier target simultaneously—could only be generated three or four times at maximum output.

Noticing the Black Wolf Spider's eager expression, Jason unleashed another attack without hesitation. Dozens of lightning bolts streaked across the night sky, converging upon his enemy with devastating force!

This time, the Black Wolf Spider didn't even attempt evasion!

Under the thunderous bombardment, he roared skyward in pain, yet somehow endured the onslaught!

The black wolf spider tattoo on his chest swelled grotesquely, turning dark crimson as his eyes blazed with inhuman ferocity.

"Iron Man, you're seeking death!"

Jason remained unfazed. After studying his opponent briefly, he smiled coldly, extended his arm, and beckoned with his index finger: "If you've got the courage, come and get me!"

The Black Wolf Spider's lips curled back, revealing unnaturally sharp teeth. "Hehe, here I come!"

The instant these words left his mouth, he launched himself skyward—ascending six or seven stories high like a raptor—arms spread wide as he dove toward Jason.

This spectacular display left every observer speechless.

Wade clutched his head in disbelief: "This isn't fair! He's totally juicing!"

Fury clenched his fists in frustration. To hell with New York air defense protocols! I'm calling in the fighter jets to obliterate this monster!

Jason, however, ignored the airborne threat entirely, focusing instead on the ground beneath him.

He crouched down and delivered a powerful punch to the pavement, shattering it. Reaching into the resulting crevice, he grasped a thick cable and yanked it upward.

He pulled a high-voltage line as thick as his arm from beneath the street.

With a single bite, he tore through the tough insulating rubber, exposing the yellow copper conductor within.

Only then did he finally look upward at the Black Wolf Spider descending from above.

His [Electrokinesis] could only generate three or four maximum-power strikes independently.

However, the upgrade had also enhanced his lightning immunity, allowing him to directly absorb electrical energy to replenish his reserves!

The moment his palm contacted the high-voltage wire, every street light in the surrounding blocks flickered violently.

Massive electrical current surged into his body!

His entire form began radiating silvery-white luminescence, his clothing instantly incinerating to ash. Countless miniature electric arcs danced across his skin.

Despite the searing pain from the power overload, he grinned maniacally. "Let me share a secret. I'll be passing the name 'Iron Man' to someone else! From now on, call me THOR!"

The instant these words left his lips, deafening thunder erupted as blinding argent light assaulted everyone's eyes.

Lights throughout half the city extinguished simultaneously, leaving only the brilliant radiance emanating from Jason, illuminating half the sky!

The chemically-enhanced Black Wolf Spider possessed extraordinary resilience. The wolf spider tattoo on his chest now appeared fully animated, baring phantom fangs as it seemed to roar defiantly at Jason.

Even with these enhancements, he withstood the thunderous onslaught for only a few seconds before smoke began rising from his body and his skin charred grotesquely.

Jason, still possessing surplus energy, directed his attention toward the building's lobby.

A silver dragon composed of hundreds of intertwined lightning bolts roared forth. Every red-clad ninja in its path instantly disintegrated to ash!

The electrical leviathan pursued the fleeing ninjas relentlessly—surging through the entrance, cascading down stairwells, thundering into the basement, and finally crashing into the resurrection altar!

The mystical platform, already strained beyond capacity, collapsed instantly. With a blinding flash, it shattered completely.

In the square, violent thunder continued unleashing its tremendous power without restraint.

Finally, with an earth-shaking explosion, the sky full of lightning transformed into a dazzling white light that bloomed violently above the square...

The brilliance temporarily blinded every witness.

When they finally regained their vision and surveyed the devastated square, they found it eerily empty.

The red ninjas had vanished.

The Black Wolf Spider was nowhere to be seen.

And most disconcertingly...

Iron Man had disappeared as well!

Chapter 50: The First Battle of New York: Daredevil

"No way!"

Wade's anguished cry echoed across the devastated square as he rushed forward. Blade followed close behind, with the others hurrying after them.

Everyone converged at the epicenter of the destruction. The ground was blanketed with ash and debris, yet there was no sign of either combatant.

Wade searched frantically, his expression growing increasingly hollow. "Did they destroyed each other? I can't find even a fragment of bone!"

He scooped up a handful of ash, examining it with desperate attention. "Could they have been completely incinerated?"

After a moment's contemplation, he stuffed the handful of ash into his pocket, muttering solemnly, "Oh, my friend, you were a true hero!"

Blade's face remained grim, yet something felt off to him. How could someone that powerful perish so easily?

Nick Fury, watching the scene unfold on his monitor, leapt from his chair.

Damn it! Black Wolf Spider, you son of a—

Perfect!

He quickly suppressed his excitement, adopting his most authoritative tone.

"Everyone, while we mourn the loss of Iron Man, the safety of New York remains our priority. The mission must continue. I guarantee in the name of SHIELD that he will receive a proper memorial! Now, you need to enter the building, apprehend the remaining Hand members, and neutralize this threat once and for all!"

The team in the square exchanged uncertain glances. Finally, Black Widow broke the silence: "He has a point. The enemy hasn't been completely eliminated."

Wade snorted derisively. "Let me make something clear—I'm not doing this for some bureaucratic agenda. Iron Man might not have been a saint, but he was my friend. I'm going in to avenge him!"

With that declaration, he stormed toward the building entrance. Blade followed silently, his expression unreadable.

From their distant vantage point, Wesley's eyes glistened with emotion. "Fox, shouldn't we join them?"

"No, we maintain our position."

"But—"

"That's an order!"

Fox remained prone on the rooftop, observing everything in the square through her sniper scope, her face betraying no emotion.

As Wade stepped into the lobby, a dark shape blurred through the air. The next instant, a size 58 boot connected solidly with his size 48 face.

"Fu—"

His exclamation was cut short as he sailed backward through the air.

Everyone behind him froze in place.

The figure that materialized before them wore a crimson uniform, with tendrils of darkness writhing across his body. His eyes were bottomless pits of shadow, his face etched with black veins that pulsed with unnatural power—a visage that truly embodied demonic possession.

Clint Barton had tracked Hell’s Butcher through Hell's Kitchen and recognized the other vigilante who had made his mark there.

It was precisely this recognition that sent a chill down his spine. "Daredevil?"

Blade stared in shock. How had Daredevil been transformed into this abomination?

Wade, sprawled on the ground, leapt to his feet and charged forward in fury. "I don't care if you're Daredevil or Satan himself! You're terrifying the children with that face—get out of my way!"

He brandished his dual katanas and lunged at the possessed hero. With a muted sound, both blades plunged directly into Daredevil's chest.

Everyone gasped in horror. When had Wade become so lethal?

Only Wade himself realized something was terribly wrong.

When he attempted to withdraw his weapons, they remained immovable despite his considerable strength.

Daredevil, impaled through the torso, didn't even flinch. He merely tilted his head, fixing Wade with those bottomless eyes.

Wade's confusion was evident. "Huh? This is a first for me!"

The next instant, Daredevil's counterattack sent him flying once more.

The katanas remained embedded in the possessed vigilante's chest. Within seconds, the portions of the blades inside Daredevil's body appeared to corrode as if subjected to powerful acid.

With a metallic "CLANG!" both weapons shattered, fragments clattering to the floor.

Collective gasps of disbelief rippled through the group.

Monitoring this development, Nick Fury felt a wave of dizziness. A desperate thought flashed through his mind: Iron Man, wherever you are, we need you back—now!

...

Jason had certainly not been reduced to ash.

Minutes earlier, when the massive thunderclap temporarily blinded everyone, he had dragged the unconscious Black Wolf Spider into the sewer system through a manhole in the square's center.

After navigating a narrow passage, he reached a wider junction where Alessa and David awaited him.

They had prepared everything in advance—including a massive insulated metal drum tall enough to accommodate a person, surrounded by numerous liquid nitrogen tanks.

Jason had specifically arranged this setup to provide a uniquely excruciating end for the most valuable target in the battle.

Negative one hundred and ninety-six degrees Celsius. Absolute brittleness.

As a gold-level target, the Black Wolf Spider certainly warranted this special treatment.

Jason borrowed David's shirt and pants, then, with cold calculation in his eyes, secured the assassin with reinforced restraints before administering an electrical shock to revive him.

Alessa stepped forward unprompted, injecting the captive with a carefully formulated cocktail of toxins.

Some induced pain, others triggered maddening itches, while others produced hallucinations or heightened sensations.

Her sole purpose: manipulate his emotional state to maximize the system's emotional level reading.

Under the combined assault of multiple toxins, Black Wolf Spider's resistance finally crumbled as his sanity began to fracture.

When Jason determined the optimal moment had arrived, he unceremoniously shoved his victim into the nitrogen-filled drum and secured the lid.

He turned to Alessa. "Let's pay a visit to the chief architect of this summoning ceremony—Ms. Alexandra."

David interrupted. "Boss, the situation is deteriorating rapidly."

Jason frowned. "Explain."

David consulted the small monitor in his hand. The team led by Black Widow, Blade, and Barton was being systematically demolished.

"Daredevil's demonic transformation has granted him extraordinary power. The team up there can't withstand him much longer!"

Jason dismissed the concern with a wave. "Don't worry—there are genuine heroes among them. They'll endure. And tell Fox to ensure Wade and Blade receive special protection."

David shrugged, offering no further argument.

Jason and Alessa ventured deeper into the sewer network. After proceeding several dozen meters, she halted, indicating the wall ahead. "I've mapped this area extensively. Only this barrier separates us from the financial building's second sublevel."

Jason nodded, approached the wall, and demolished it with several precisely delivered blows.

Beyond lay the financial building's second underground floor, where the summoning ritual had recently concluded.

The altar remained intact, though now abandoned.

Ignoring these details, they pressed forward.

Alessa consulted various instruments, apparently taking measurements to establish their exact position.

Once confident of their location, she nodded to Jason, who delivered another series of devastating punches. The wall crumbled, revealing an elevator shaft.

They descended, emerging into a pitch-black corridor.

Jason knew what lay hidden here—the dragon bones.

He had been contemplating the Hand's true motivations since learning of their plan to summon a demon.

Despite having eliminated two of the Five Fingers, would the remaining three truly be motivated by vengeance alone?

Impossible—these ancient beings lacked such sentimental loyalty.

Their elaborate summoning ritual therefore served a more pragmatic purpose.

Only after discovering the ceremony's location—beneath the Midtown Financial Building—did everything become clear.

The Five Fingers' true objective had always been the dragon bones!

The "demonic summoning for revenge" narrative merely served as misdirection—a calculated diversion to occupy their adversaries.

The Five Fingers had their schemes, but Jason had developed counter-strategies of his own.

This time, he would be the unexpected variable in their equation.