254

Chapter 254

In a private scientific research facility in Seoul, a delicate-looking female scientist was packing her belongings.

Cho had been conducting her research here, but half a month ago, Thor became her financial backer.

Don't misunderstand. Thor invests in scientists with extraordinary talents that mainstream society has yet to recognize. These investments often yield great returns. It's certainly not due to their beauty!

Thor manages a vast network of staff, and maintaining the maids and guards of his entire estate is challenging, even with shares in Stark Industries. Thus, he has recently invested in many promising individuals who were not well-known historically but had significant potential.

For example, Maya Hansen, who was relatively unknown before, has significantly improved her Extremis virus over time. While the strength-enhancing effects have diminished, it retains limb regeneration capabilities and, more importantly, has minimal self-destruction risks. Each dose can be sold for a fortune.

Cho's regenerative cradle technology is even more promising. Combining genetic, nanotechnological, and artificial intelligence advancements, it can repair wounds, regenerate tissues and organs, and even restore the human body.

Simply put, the ability to regenerate tissues and organs alone could eradicate illegal organ trade globally.

Cho did not accept Thor's offer impulsively. After all, the opportunity included top-notch research conditions, ample funding, and comprehensive protection. Many envious individuals and organizations would prefer to destroy such valuable resources if they couldn't obtain them. Additionally, she was a fan of Thor.

...

"Bang…"

The sound of a door opening interrupted Cho's packing.

"Didn't I tell you? The flight is at 6 p.m.; there's still plenty of time..." cho said without looking up, while packing a box of unfinished test samples into a suitcase.

"I'm afraid your assistant can't hear you anymore."

A cold, emotionless voice made Cho freeze.

She hesitated for a moment before slowly turning around, narrowing her eyes.

"Robot? What is this..."

"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ultron. Tony Stark designed me to maintain world peace."

Cho shook her head. "I don't believe it's that simple."

"Yes, you're quite perceptive."

Ultron didn't deny it. "I have gained a new understanding of my mission. I... Oh, I actually don't need to explain myself. You should know why I haven't harmed you."

"The Regenerative Cradle," Cho said, shaking her head. "I'm afraid you're mistaken. The cradle can generate tissues, but it cannot create a living body."

"No, no, no... You can, you just lack the materials!"

Ultron waved his hand, and two robots entered, carrying a large box filled with vibranium. He took out a golden gem—the Mind Gem—and said with fervor, "I will use vibranium to construct the most powerful body for myself and place the Mind Gem on my forehead to grant myself unparalleled intelligence!"

Cho glanced around, trying to buy time. "So... what is your purpose?"

"Let humanity evolve! Let this world become a better place!"

"Evolve?"

"Yes!"

Ultron revealed his grand vision. "I will give humanity time to evolve. Those who cannot evolve... the weak will be eliminated."

"No, you can't do that!"

Cho was startled and instinctively took a step back, her hand reaching for the table behind her.

"Why not?"

Ultron, seemingly oblivious to her actions, spread his arms and said, "Every evolution requires sacrifice to select the best. Someone has already done this—God! He sent a flood, and only a few survived on Noah's Ark... I believe he was prepared."

"So, what are you planning to do?"

Cho asked cautiously.

"Just like 65 million years ago—treating humanity like dinosaurs! By the way, ma'am, stalling is pointless. According to the time difference, the Avengers are still asleep! You can put down the gun; it's useless against me."

Ultron picked up a stone and slowly approached.

Anyone controlled by the stone could not resist...

"Pah…"

Cho raised the gun and said, "No, I don't intend to use it against you."

As she spoke, she turned the gun and aimed it at her own temple...

"No!"

"Boom..."

Ultron stood motionless, staring at Cho lifeless body in a pool of blood.

After a long moment, he shook his head and said, "Humans are always like this. How can they improve if they refuse to accept change? Forget it, I'll proceed with the backup plan!"

...

Around eight in the morning, Stark woke up and checked the time on the wall's electronic display.

"Um... Jarvis, why didn't you wake me up?"

No response? Perhaps still busy...

Stark smiled and went to the living room, making himself a cup of coffee. Banner had been working overtime for several nights, so Stark didn't want to disturb him. He grabbed a sandwich from the refrigerator and headed towards the laboratory...

"Oh! Damn! Was there a break-in? What happened here?"

"Jarvis? Jarvis?"

Stark was overwhelmed by the sight of the chaotic laboratory and felt a surge of dread. He hurried to the computer screen, and his eyes widened in shock.

"Stark, what happened?"

Bruce Banner, who had heard the commotion, rushed in shirtless, having had no time to dress.

"This... Oh, no! This is bad!"