Chapter 183: Joining Vought

Outside the headquarters of Vought, a buzzing crowd filled the area, kept back by two rows of safety barriers. A red carpet split the road down the middle, obviously laid out for a VIP's arrival.

The excitement in the air was palpable.

A sleek black car rolled up slowly, and a staff member in uniform courteously moved to open the rear door.

"He's here, welcome to New York!" Ashley called out with excitement, though inwardly, she felt quite reluctant about the person she was greeting.

The man stepping out had recently stood up to Homelander, and now here he was, unscathed. It was clear he wasn't on good terms with Homelander, yet Homelander seemed unable to touch him.

Now that Phoenix had joined the Seven, any tension between them would also become her problem as the assistant.

A figure in a fiery red suit emerged from the car, and Phoenix stepped onto the carpet with a confident smile.

The crowd erupted in cheers, welcoming America's newest superhero with overwhelming enthusiasm. They were unaware of the significant impact this man would have on the nation's future.

"I'm Ashley Barrett, Senior Vice President of Hero Management!" Ashley introduced herself with a bright smile, though they had met before.

Phoenix gazed around with wide-eyed excitement at the cheering crowd, his expression mirroring that of a child who had suddenly become famous overnight, overwhelmed by the adoring shouts.

However, it was just a performance; on the surface, he seemed panicked, but internally, he was as composed as a seasoned pro.

"Are they all here for me?" Jon asked with feigned surprise.

Ashley's smile flickered slightly. This man had boldly defied Homelander just days ago, and now here he was, acting utterly overwhelmed by his fanfare. His performance was worthy of an Oscar.

But she kept up her smile. "Oh, dear, who else could they possibly be this excited for besides you?"

Jon responded, "Really? Not even Homelander?"

Ashley's expression stiffened briefly. Why did he have to mention Homelander out of the blue?

Still, she maintained her smile. "Come on, we're going to be late!"

Together, Phoenix and Ashley walked down the red carpet, surrounded by the sound of cameras snapping and the crowd shouting his name.

Soon, Jon arrived backstage for his induction ceremony, where the stage was dimly lit, and the audience seats were filled to capacity.

This was Vought's annual shareholders' meeting, primarily attended by investors and their guests. Today they had planned to announce Phoenix's addition to the Seven, capitalizing on his popularity to boost investments.

"Ladies and gentlemen, without a doubt!" announced the professional female host on stage, "Now is the best time to join the superhero industry. Our net income has increased by 12%, and our latest movie, 'The Seven: Origins,' has grossed approximately $1.8 billion worldwide, taking the crown as the global box office champion from 'Avatar'!"

As the audience clapped and cheered, the host eagerly continued, "This fall, we'll break ground on our latest theme park outside Paris, offering limitless branding opportunities."

"But let's remember what's truly important. Our core mission is managing, supporting, and celebrating the courageous deeds of our superheroes! They prevent danger and protect lives every day. Let's take a look at some of their heroic acts!"

The host gestured to the large screen which flashed the title, "Vought International 2019 Annual Shareholders' Meeting."

A video then began to play, featuring various superheroes in action. It was filmed in a V-log style, serving as a promotional piece, complete with dynamic background commentary.

The video's narrator passionately declared, "Imagine a world free of crime, where freedom and justice are enjoyed by all, made possible by the Vought family and our network of over two hundred superheroes. This dream is within our grasp. We envision a bright future where every town benefits from the presence of a Vought hero!"

***

Backstage, Jon had just finished preparing in the dressing room. Assistant Ashley accompanied him towards the stage, where he was about to make a significant entrance, aimed at impressing the shareholders and securing more investments for Vought.

"You've done quite well so far," Ashley remarked, her voice devoid of the earlier pleasant facade, now that they were alone.

"Your approval ratings are at an all-time high, and within the Seven, you've already outshined the least popular member, Shockwave. Plus, your recent interview has won you many fans. Everyone loves a redemption story!"

Jon, now Phoenix, responded, "Yes, thanks to Stormfront, right?"

Ashley paused, her expression turning serious. "I'd advise you to never bring that up again, especially not in front of Homelander. And try to avoid provoking him."

Jon, nonchalant, asked, "Oh, you feel sorry for him?"

"I'm not joking," Ashley snapped, her tone sharp.

Suddenly, Jon's demeanor changed, his face darkening. He leaned in close to Ashley, his voice threatening, "You work for me, and you'd better start treating me with ten times the respect you show Homelander. Otherwise, I'll make sure you disappear without a trace—and even Homelander won't be able to find you."