Chapter 24

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

Hello Author-san here, I won't talk much today. Just that I'll try my best to keep writing and posting new chapters daily, I won't make promises I can't keep.

Anyway enjoy 🙂

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The chaotic scene outside Vought Tower sent shockwaves throughout the city. The brutal display of Riftshade's terrifying appearance and power left Shockwave's broken body on the steps, delivering a message for Vought in his wrath. The city buzzed with fear and speculation, the media in a frenzy to cover every angle of the incident.

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**Breaking News:**

"In a shocking turn of events, an unknown superhuman, now identified as Riftshade, has attacked Vought Tower, leaving the hero Shockwave critically injured. The incident, captured by numerous onlookers, shows Riftshade issuing a chilling challenge to Homelander and the rest of Vought.

Authorities are on high alert as the situation develops. More details to follow."

This was now the most viewed news across every television channel, with similar stories trending on social media:

- **@NewsFlash:** "Riftshade leaves Shockwave battered on Vought's doorstep! Is this the end of Vought's control? #Riftshade #VoughtDown"

- **@SuperFan123:** "Just saw the video of Riftshade! This guy is terrifying but kind of amazing. #Riftshade #Justice?"

- **@CitizenJane:** "If Vought can't control their heroes, what does this mean for our safety? #Vought #Riftshade"

- **@HeroesWatch:** "Homelander better step up. Riftshade just declared war. #HomelanderVsRiftshade #TheSeven"

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### Edgar's POV

Stan Edgar was busy with a deadline in the weapons sector when his assistant rushed in, panting in panic. Edgar's employees knew he hated being interrupted, so this must be important.

"What is th—" he began, but was interrupted as she turned on the television, showing a supe of unknown origin holding the battered Shockwave. To Edgar's surprise, Riftshade did not kill Shockwave. Instead, he seemingly yelled something before disappearing in a bolt of purple lightning.

Turning to his assistant, Edgar asked, "What was he saying?"

She took her Vought pad and clicked on a civilian's point-of-view video.

"VOUGHT!!!! COME AND TAKE YOUR TRASH!! I'LL BE SEEING YOU SOON, HOMELANDER! HEHE AHAHAHAHA!!" After which, he once again disappeared. She switched to another video of Riftshade holding Shockwave by the neck as he pleaded.

"Will you walk into my parlour? Said the spider to the fly," Riftshade taunted, ignoring Shockwave's pleas. He looked at the crowds, his eyes seemingly staring through the camera directly at the viewer. "Hehehe, look at this thing. This is your so-called protector? You'd trust your life to him? Well, allow me to do you all a favor."

As the news continued, Edgar leaned back, contemplating his next actions. "Arrange for Ms. Stillwell to handle it. The last thing we need is for some nuisance to come between Vought and its interests. Make it snappy," he ordered.

The assistant nodded in compliance and rushed to relay his order, leaving Edgar to ponder the next steps in maintaining Vought's control and image. He couldn't afford to let Riftshade disrupt their carefully constructed facade.

Edgar tapped his fingers on his desk, the rhythmic sound echoing his thoughts. 'Riftshade', he mused, 'a new variable, a threat to our stability. But every threat is also an opportunity. Let's see how Stillwell handles this.'

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( Madeline's POV)

Witnessing the news footage sent shivers down Madeline Stillwell's spine. The terrifying visage of the unknown supe with his animated mask was unnerving. She managed to tame Homelander to listen to her, but this thing on the screen was nothing of their company.

She knew nearly all the supes they had on their roster, yet this unknown person or creature was not, and that terrified her. If he could do what he did to a speedster, a being capable of immense speed caught and brutalized without any effort, she would need to convince Homelander to take care of that thing.

A knock caught her off guard, causing her to properly fix herself. Clearing her throat, she called out for the person to enter. The assistant walked in, carrying paperwork. She handed it to Stillwell.

"Orders from Mr. Edgar and I quote: 'Handle this, Madeline. The last thing we need is for some nuisance to come between Vought and its interests. Make it snappy,' end quote."

Madeline nodded at the assistant, who reciprocated with a nod of her own before walking out. She took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the media onslaught and the delicate task of managing the situation. She quickly prepared herself, ready to spin the story in Vought's favor.

"This is a PR nightmare," she thought, her mind racing. "We need to handle this delicately."

Stillwell knew she had to act fast. She drafted a statement for the press, highlighting Vought's commitment to safety and justice, while subtly discrediting Riftshade as a dangerous vigilante. She also arranged a meeting with the top executives to plan their next moves and ensure Homelander was prepared for a confrontation.

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( Homelander's POV)

Homelander was livid, pacing back and forth with his arms folded behind his back nearly burning through the carpet at the pace he was moving.

The video of Riftshade's challenge played over and over on his massive screens, echoing through his mind. His eyes glowed red with barely restrained rage, doing his best to calm himself before he failed, causing him to take an old statue and toss it through the window with a roar, shattering the glass with a sonic boom echoing throughout the room.

"This Riftshade thinks he can challenge me?!! I'll show him who the real power is," he said with barely contained venom.

He paused, breathing heavily, trying to regain control using his hand to fix his misplaced locks to be in pristine condition. That challenge had struck quite a nerve in him. Homelander prided himself on being invincible, untouchable, and Riftshade's defiance was an affront to his authority. He needed to reassert his dominance and control, and he needed to do it fast.

Summoning his team, Homelander prepared to address The Seven. They needed to present a united front, show strength, and remind everyone who was in charge. Riftshade would be dealt with, and Vought's supremacy would be restored.

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(3rd POV): The Seven's Conference Chamber

The members of The Seven gathered, each taking their usual spots around the large conference table. Annie sat close to Maeve, while The Deep sat on the opposite side, keeping his distance. Black Noir remained silent as always, and Translucent was busy looking at the news on his phone. Annie, Maeve, and Translucent exchanged subtle glances, nodding to each other.

Homelander entered the room with an air of authority, his presence commanding attention. He made his way to the head of the table, his eyes scanning the room.

"Welcome, everyone. Glad you could all make it on short notice. We have a situation on our hands," he began, his voice cold and measured. "So, what are your thoughts on this unknown supe? What could their motives be? And most of all, why target me in the first place?"

Maeve leaned back in her chair, her eyes narrowing in thought. "Riftshade clearly wants to make a statement. Attacking Vought and challenging you directly is a bold move. He might be trying to undermine our authority."

Annie nodded in agreement. "He's powerful, and he's not afraid to prove it. We might need to have a careful approach as this is might be the first Villain who's a supe, things could escalate quickly beyond control."

The Deep shifted uncomfortably in his seat, avoiding eye contact. "We might need to find out more about him. Like uh, where did he come from? What could be his endgame?" Making most of the rooms occupants look at him in surprise, it does seem like he's not truly hopelessly useless.

Translucent finally looked up from his phone, his expression serious. "He's got the public's attention. We need to turn this around before it gets out of hand. It would affect us all if we plan to delay it."

Homelander listened, his jaw clenched. "Well then, we'll find him and deal with him. He's not going to make a fool out of me or Vought. Prepare yourselves. You want a fight Riftshade, well you'll have a war."

The room fell silent, as the tension rose. The Seven knew they were facing a new and dangerous threat, one that could shake the foundations of everything Vought stood for.

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### Press Conference

Madeline Stillwell stood before the press, her face carefully composed. She addressed the flashing cameras with practiced calm.

"We at Vought are aware of the recent incident involving Riftshade and Shockwave. We are taking every measure to ensure the safety and security of our heroes and the public. Riftshade's actions are unacceptable, and we are working closely with law enforcement to bring him to justice. Rest assured, Vought remains committed to protecting you all. This situation will be under control soon. Thank you."

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### Social Media

Citizen Reactions:

- **@JusticeForAll:** "Vought says they'll control the situation, but can we really trust them? #VoughtLies #RiftshadeTruth"

- **@HeroLover:** "Riftshade seems scary, but maybe he's what we need to shake things up. #Riftshade #Change"

- **@WorriedMom:** "I'm scared for my kids. Vought needs to get their act together

. #SafetyFirst #VoughtFail"

- **@TechGuru:** "Who's this Riftshade? His powers are insane. We need more info! #Riftshade #SuperMystery"

The divided opinions reflected the uncertainty gripping the city. As Riftshade's challenge echoed through the streets and screens world wide, the battle lines were drawn, and the stage was set for an epic confrontation.

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