Chapter 232: C224
"The development of cutting-edge technology is our current top priority," declared the president firmly.
Nuclear weapons remain the most powerful tools of destruction known to humanity. The U.S. nuclear arsenal alone is capable of obliterating Earth's surface a hundred times over. Yet, this remains a suicidal and desperate last resort. In the face of powerful alien invaders, the effectiveness of such weapons is questionable. Moreover, the risks are amplified if the battlefield is on Earth—launching a nuclear strike might kill thousands of enemies, but at the cost of untold collateral damage. And in outer space, our current technology cannot deploy nuclear weapons effectively.
"Therefore, we must develop more advanced weaponry," the president continued. "In terms of range, power, and speed, we need solutions that surpass our existing arsenal."
The other officials in the room nodded in agreement.
"The next question is this," the president said, leaning forward. "In our society, there are hidden groups of individuals with powers beyond human imagination. What preparations are necessary to address this growing challenge?"
This was the issue that clearly troubled the president the most. Alien invasions and interstellar threats were matters for the future—concerns for a time long after his own lifespan. But the emergence of individuals like Leon and his group struck at the heart of their authority. These were people with powers so immense that they could potentially bend the fabric of time itself. And more importantly, there was the tantalizing possibility that they had transcended the natural limits of human life.
These two issues consumed the thoughts of those in power. The allure of wielding such extraordinary abilities was irresistible, and the promise of longevity was even more so.
For these elites—who already enjoyed unparalleled wealth, status, and influence—the idea of extending their reign over their luxuries was intoxicating. Many had already funneled vast resources into biological experiments and advanced medicine, with some efforts veering into unethical human experimentation. Military institutions turned a blind eye to these covert activities, maintaining a façade of plausible deniability.
"As a part of human civilization, I think they should contribute to society," one congressman suggested sternly.
The room fell silent as his words hung in the air. Then, the others exchanged incredulous looks. The congressman quickly realized his error and fell silent, embarrassed.
Even the president sighed inwardly. "Has this man grown so arrogant from his position that he's forgotten reality?" he thought. Forcing such individuals to "contribute" was laughable, especially given their power. The U.S. government had learned its lesson from its dealings with mutants like Magneto and Professor X. The destructive potential of these new individuals made them even more dangerous.
Leon, for instance, possessed powers that defied comprehension—abilities that could rewrite the fabric of time itself. The group under his leadership boasted equally terrifying capabilities. A single member had shattered frost beasts impervious to missiles, while another had fought the Hulk-level threat of Abomination to a standstill on the streets of New York.
The thought of confronting such individuals militarily was absurd. Without nuclear weapons—and even then, at great risk—there was no feasible way to suppress them. And these people could fly. What hope did conventional forces have?
Realizing the folly of any hostile action, the president finally made his decision.
"Our priority remains the development of cutting-edge weaponry to bolster our military strength. Our scope must expand beyond Earth to prepare for future threats. As for these individuals, SHIELD will take the lead. Whatever methods they use, they must focus on gaining their favor and establishing the possibility of cooperation."
He paused, then added, "And suppress the current public discourse. I don't want these matters being discussed openly."
The others nodded silently, understanding the unspoken truth. Freedom of speech had its limits, especially when it came to national security. For now, the public could immerse itself in entertainment and distractions, leaving these matters to those in power.
Ural Mountains
A warm morning sun streamed through the windows of a large wooden villa nestled in the wilderness. Birds chirped outside, their calls blending with the gentle rustle of the wind. Inside, the soft light illuminated a rumpled bed where Leon lay, Natasha curled up against his chest. A thin quilt covered the pair, hinting at the passionate events of the previous night.
Leon opened his eyes and glanced down, meeting Natasha's gaze. Her brilliant green eyes shimmered with a warmth that could melt steel. He smiled, pulling her closer, and kissed her forehead.
"Good morning, my girl," he murmured.
"Good morning, my little man," Natasha replied with a tender smile.
The former assassin sat up, her movements unhurried. She slipped out from under the quilt, standing with effortless grace. Ignoring her bare skin, she bent to pick up her scattered clothing and tossed them onto a nearby chair. Then, with an impish smirk, she shrugged on Leon's oversized shirt. The garment hung loosely on her, just barely covering her undergarments, accentuating her stunning figure.
Leon couldn't help but admire her. His gaze followed her every movement, appreciation written plainly on his face.
...
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