Chapter 33: Investigation

Several hours later, Andrew found himself on a serene hill overlooking New York City. Susan, his companion, peacefully slept under a comforting blanket as Andrew admired the vast expanse of stars in the night sky.

"With over three thousand soul contracts, my power has undoubtedly grown. The number exceeds my previous gains by a significant margin. At this rate, it won't be long before the souls of New York City's citizens are under my control."

Andrew's elation was evident as he contemplated the unfolding events. "Furthermore, there were convergence of two new worlds with this during the final stages, this raises intriguing questions about the correlation between their fusion and the culmination of each event."

He pondered the significance of this fusion and its possible link to his own presence. "The initial four worlds did not exhibit such phenomena. Wait a moment; the Ancient One did mention that world fusion began precisely a year ago."

A realization struck Andrew, and his brow furrowed with contemplation. It dawned on him that his arrival in the rebirth hell coincided with the initiation of this world fusion process.

"This implies that the world fusion is somehow connected to me. How fascinating."

...

As the night gave way to a new morning, the news of the previous night's events circulated throughout New York City. Various newspapers and media outlets proclaimed the existence of vampires, stirring a wave of discussion and intrigue among the population.

However, The Daily Bugle stood apart from the rest. Its headline was divided into two distinct sections. On the left, a photograph captured Spider-Man being thrown off balance, accompanied by the headline: "Questionable Reliability of Spider-Man." On the right, Ghost Rider, engulfed in fiery brilliance, was seen calmly smoking a cigar, with the title: "A Divine Guardian Descends upon New York City."

"Both are superheroes, so why is there such a big bias?"

Peter Parker, observing the contrasting headlines, couldn't help but comment. Just then, a large screen above him displayed a press conference unfolding.

The spokesperson spoke into the microphone, attempting to dispel the vampire rumors. "There are no vampires in our world. Several years ago, an unscrupulous doctor engineered a virus that bestowed vampire-like characteristics upon its victims. These infected individuals, who exhibit aversions to sunlight, silver, and garlic, survive by consuming blood... The military will be systematically eliminating carriers of this virus in the United States of America. Please remain assured. In addition, if you encounter any individuals suspected of carrying the virus, please heed the following guidelines..."

"What nonsense!"

Peter scoffed at the official narrative, finding it absurd. The dissatisfied reporters also voiced their skepticism, bombarding the spokesperson with questions. Yet, the spokesperson remained unperturbed, seemingly unwavering in their belief, regardless of public sentiment.

While the official explanation of the incident seemed inconsequential, what mattered most was that America had resolved to eradicate vampires entirely. As a result, vampires faced imminent doom, compelled to flee to other countries or return to Europe.

Despite the disarray of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s operation, its primary objective had largely been achieved. From now on, the people of America would no longer endure the menace of vampires.

"The vampire stronghold resides in Europe. Blade, we shall begin by eliminating the vampire presence in North America before setting our sights on Europe," declared Whistler, his repaired arm signifying his resolve. "Our Boss will provide us with ample resources and funding."

Blade, adjusting his sunglasses, responded with confidence, "Excellent. With our Boss's support, we will eradicate vampires once and for all."

Thus, the master and apprentice embarked on another chapter of their journey. They would not rest until vampires were eradicated from existence.

Amidst the bustle and clamor, over a month elapsed. One morning, Natasha Romanoff, who had resumed her service to S.H.I.E.L.D., knocked on Nick Fury's office door.

"Before we begin, a word of caution: refrain from mentioning my eyes or eyepatch, or you'll find yourself promptly escorted out," warned Nick Fury, his displeasure evident. In recent weeks, colleagues and even his superior, Pierce, had taken to making snide remarks about his physical appearance, thoroughly testing his patience.

"I'm not interested in paying attention to your eyes," Natasha eagerly inquired. "Did you manage to find any leads on the investigation I requested?"

Upon realizing the gravity of the matter at hand, Nick Fury assumed a more serious demeanor. "I'm uncertain how Ghost Rider became aware that the young girl survived. Over the past month, S.H.I.E.L.D. has conducted an extensive global search for Drekov, but to no avail. I suspect that Ghost Rider is withholding crucial information."

"No, what he revealed is true. I can sense it," Natasha stubbornly insisted.

"They are concealing themselves. Even S.H.I.E.L.D. has been unable to locate them," Natasha persisted.

"Unless they are deceased, no one can evade S.H.I.E.L.D.'s reach," asserted a confident Nick Fury.

"Natasha, I believe your guilt is clouding your judgment. I recommend you take a leave of absence or seek professional guidance."

"Do you truly think I am burdened by guilt?" Natasha smiled wryly, shaking her head. "I am applying for a month-long leave. I intend to personally investigate this matter. I hope for your cooperation in coordinating with all relevant departments."

Nick Fury sighed, reluctantly granting her request. "Very well, but I expect you to return to your usual self and resume your role as the Black Widow after this month. Your recent conduct has been unbecoming of a professional. You even engaged in altercations with your colleagues."

Natasha shrugged dismissively. "I am not as adept at deception as you are, deceiving the entire S.H.I.E.L.D. personnel."

Angrily, Nick Fury retorted, "I explicitly warned you not to mention that."

Natasha shook her head, turned, and departed from S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters. Determined to locate General Drekov and Antonia, she was resolute in bringing closure to the lingering remnants of the past.

...

That evening, Andrew, the very cause of Natasha's restlessness, enjoyed a serene picnic with Gwen in Central Park.

Noticing Gwen's somewhat troubled demeanor, Andrew inquired, "Gwen, is something bothering you? Is the dinner I arranged not to your liking?"

"It's fine, except for one particularly spicy dish that nearly brought tears to my eyes. Overall, the dinner was enjoyable," Gwen teased playfully.

"But I am worried about my father. City hall officials are blaming him, and he may face termination," Gwen confided.

With the Lizard and vampires wreaking havoc in New York, causing extensive damage and casualties, someone had to shoulder the blame. Since S.H.I.E.L.D., as a covert organization, was unsuited for public appearances, Police Commissioner George Stacy unfortunately found himself as the scapegoat.

"It is a minor issue," Andrew assured Gwen, offering reassurance. "Commissioner Stacy became the scapegoat primarily because he lacks influential connections. In truth, even without this incident, his political career would have been short-lived."

Gwen remarked, "My father refuses to engage in political maneuvering."

"Your father possesses unwavering integrity, but the citizens of New York remain unaware of his true character," Andrew commented. "I will pen an article extolling your father's virtues and generate momentum in his favor. I will rally public support for him, presenting the question: 'Do you prefer a resilient commissioner or a bureaucratic one?'"

Gwen questioned the effectiveness of such an endeavor. "Will that truly make a difference?"

"Absolutely. I have thoroughly researched your father's background, and his qualifications are truly impressive. It is just a matter of bringing his accomplishments into the spotlight," Andrew explained. He understood that without influential connections, it was challenging for someone to rise to the position of Police Commissioner, but he saw potential in Commissioner Stacy's credentials.

Of course, it was not solely a matter of reporting. The Rebirth Group would play a behind-the-scenes role in supporting Commissioner George. In a capitalist society like America, capital could pave the way for significant transformations. However, there was no need to disclose these details to Gwen.

____

STONES STONES STONES STONES STONES

Next chapter