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Chapter 22: Missing

As a nation founded by exiles, Americans have never been fond of following the rules.

This is a country that reveres solitary heroes. Thor and Steve's daring mission to rescue their comrades from behind enemy lines earned them universal admiration.

Not only did they rescue their allies, but they also wiped out numerous enemy troops and brought back a substantial amount of supplies. In a time of intense conflict in Europe, their actions were a much-needed boost.

With the President's Medal of Valor, Steve was firmly established on the front lines.

Under Colonel Phillips' command, Steve was officially assigned to the battle against HYDRA.

The "Howling Commandos," previously mentioned in passing, was now a formal combat unit with Steve as the captain and Bucky as the vice-captain.

Thor also received a Medal of Valor, which Peggy Carter accepted on his behalf.

…

"Just returned alive from there, and now you're going back?"

A seasoned veteran joked while holding a glass of wine.

"You could say that," Steve shrugged. "It's already been done."

"Sounds interesting, count me in, and let's send those bastards to hell."

"Forgiving them is God's job; our task is to send them to Him!"

Veterans who have faced life and death together often form deep bonds. Despite knowing the dangers, they were always willing to fight.

At this time, Captain America remained kind-hearted, even referring to the missing Lieutenant Donald Blake as the true leader of the Howling Commandos.

"I heard you prefer to use a shield?"

Howard Stark, who was responsible for making weapons for Steve, asked with surprise.

"Yes," Steve replied, accustomed to it even when taking a beating.

"Since I have to fight, I prefer to defend myself!"

"Papapa—" Howard clapped his hands together. "I've designed several shields; I hope one of them suits you."

Perhaps it was destiny, but among the many high-tech shields, Steve chose a simple round one.

This was Howard's intention, though the shield had special features. Whether cutting or rebounding, it performed exceptionally well.

With this shield, no matter how fierce the enemy's marksmanship, he would always be prepared...

When Captain America raises his giant shield of invincibility, all evil forces retreat!

With the shield in hand, Captain America was ready to face anyone head-on!

…

The following days were marked by Captain America's pride.

The combination of shield and winter perfectly illustrated that one plus one could indeed be greater than two. Steve and Bucky treated HYDRA bases across Europe as dungeons, clearing them without injury.

…

"Dammit!!!"

This expletive had become Red Skull's catchphrase of late.

"You've let me down so much!"

"We were supposed to conquer the world, but we failed repeatedly. It's because you can't even handle a stage actor with those shields!"

Dr. Zola trembled. "Sorry, sir. That's not my area of expertise. I'm a weapon developer, not a shield expert..."

"I don't want excuses! Kill him before he kills you!"

Red Skull's icy gaze bore into him.

Dr. Zola shuddered. "Yes, I'll arrange it immediately! Hail HYDRA!"

Red Skull nodded in satisfaction, then his expression turned serious again. "Also, increase the effort to find the intruder who entered our base earlier. He is my ideal experimental subject!"

This individual was considered more dangerous than Captain America. If he could not be controlled, he must be eliminated!

…

The most dangerous person in Red Skull's eyes was currently suffering.

"Ugh..."

Stretching his arm, Thor winced with soreness.

"Don't worry. You broke through the seal at a critical moment and unleashed latent potential in your body.

Even though it was only for a short period, it put a significant strain on you.

But it's not all negative.

Your current state will improve with time and could even raise your future potential.

In the long run, it's a free enhancement."

Miss System offered him comfort.

Thor smiled wryly. "I didn't expect that the first task after activating the system would almost cost me my life."

The system's voice was apologetic. "Yes... I'm sorry. I didn't anticipate it at the time, and it was too late when I realized the risk..."