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With Kingpin behind bars, the threat to the Wick family faded into the background.
John did not kill Kingpin. He was far more interested in watching how a boss of Hell's Kitchen would survive in prison. That was his way of enjoying life during his vacation.
Since his father and mother were still away and had no plans to return, John had no choice but to continue living alone in the big house.
The FBI's investigation into the Wick family also lost its urgency. Now they had to handle the enormous "gift package" Kingpin left behind. Those operations would keep the New York FBI busy for a long time.
Ray received a promotion and became a team leader. The FBI was busy cracking down on criminals in Hell's Kitchen, which made Dax a little gloomy. Fighting crime was something both sides of his life had to do, but now, because of the FBI's efforts, he even had to work overtime at night.
What frustrated him most was looking at the photo Ray posted on the board.
"Night Ghost, a vigilante active in Hell's Kitchen," Ray explained seriously to the team. "His appearance has caused a lot of trouble for us. He uses brutal methods to kill criminals when stopping crimes."
"He has disappeared lately. He is probably hiding, afraid of the police search, but we cannot let our guard down."
Dealing with masked vigilantes was always a headache for the FBI. What they did could be called acts of courage or acts of vigilantism. For example, Daredevil, another masked vigilante, also fought crime. Ray did not have much ill will toward Daredevil because he had a no-kill principle. But as for Night Ghost, almost no criminal survived an encounter with him. That was not just a challenge to the police but outright murder.
After dismissing the team, Ray found Dax and spoke with a serious expression. "I suspect Night Ghost might be one of us."
Dax did not say a word.
Ray did not notice the odd look on Dax's face. He pulled his partner closer and started analyzing. "Night Ghost can always find people with criminal records or those likely to reoffend. The release lists of those individuals are internal law enforcement records. To know these things, you need to access the police database."
"Night Ghost also has very strong analytical skills. He can judge the likelihood of a criminal committing a crime and stake out in advance."
Ray's face grew grave. "Someone who can do this is probably an experienced agent."
Dax narrowed his eyes and asked, "Who do you think it is?"
Ray searched his memory for anyone who fit the profile but shook his head. "I do not know. We cannot be sure. Right now, all we have are descriptions from passersby."
Ray sighed. "We cannot investigate openly. We will have to form a small team and look into it quietly. I have already recommended you to the higher-ups."
Ray smiled warmly. "I know you could never be that kind of person."
Dax put down the paperclip he had been fidgeting with and smiled. "Thank you for your trust, Ray."
After Dax left, Ray returned to gather his things and stepped on the paperclip on the floor. He bent down, picked it up, and placed it on his desk without a second thought.
***
John was playing chess in the park.
He stroked his chin and studied the black and white chessboard before moving his rook.
"Checkmate."
Across from him, Robert wore a bowler hat and a black shirt. He frowned, searching for a way out, but finally extended his hand and conceded with a smile. "I finished the book you recommended."
"I could not find the sequel in the library."
"It is actually a series," John replied. "I can bring you the next one."
"I have a question," Robert said, his curiosity clear. "The stories about Gilderoy Lockhart are thrilling. Those adventures felt like I was there myself. About the characteristics of werewolves and that magic…"
"You will understand after you finish his books," John said with a smile. "He is a very popular writer where I come from."
"I am looking forward to it."
Robert's life was peaceful now. He had quit his job at IKEA and started driving a taxi, but he still helped people find justice when they needed it. Over time, he gained a new name among the people.
The Vindicator.
He specialized in helping those who had been wronged. No matter how powerful or influential the other side was, only repentance in front of the Vindicator could save you.
In the park, Robert was kind and approachable, nothing like the man who once went to Moscow and took down Pushkin. These things were never discussed between the two of them. Just as Robert did not ask about John's business at the Continental Hotel, John never asked what Robert did in Moscow. Their friendship was simple. They talked about books, drank tea, and sometimes played chess together. It was a quiet, unpretentious life.
After their game, Robert got into a taxi and waved goodbye. "Time for me to get to work."
"Have a nice Saturday," John replied.
John left the park, wondering what kind of injustice the Vindicator would face today.
***
Hammer Industries.
It had been a while since John had visited. He came today for a major event. The Steel Soldiers were to be delivered.
As the comeback project for Hammer Industries after its market value plummeted, this was a big day. If Hattie had not intercepted him along the way, John would probably be fishing right now.
General Ross arrived with soldiers to personally test the most advanced Steel Soldiers system. The multi-billion dollar order would shake up all of New York.
The television was filled with news about the impact of this deal. Stocks that had been falling suddenly soared. John's net worth shot up as well. With the military as a backer, even the trouble Hammer Industries had caused in the past would soon be forgotten.
General Ross said to John, "It would be a big favor for you to ask S.H.I.E.L.D. to solve your problems."
John answered calmly, "There is no other way, since some people do not like to help. I can only deal with the devil."
Ross grunted, knowing John was talking about him. "The Department of Defense has decided to formally incorporate the Steel Soldiers into the army. Hammer Industries will need to send personnel for routine maintenance."
John agreed without hesitation.
"These Steel Soldiers will become the best helpers in fighting terrorists," General Ross said. "They are also the best weapons to deter our enemies."
"At this point, I suggest you test them in New York first."
John nodded. "Only a qualified test can show how important the Steel Soldiers are."
"Your suggestion is good," Ross said, his eyes lighting up. He did not plan to send the Steel Soldiers directly to the army. He still wanted to take another shot at the Hulk. He was almost obsessed with the idea. With the Steel Soldiers, he now wanted to fight the Hulk as soon as possible.
John had other plans. If he remembered correctly, soon there would be a major battle in New York. When that happened, General Ross would probably be glad for his own selfishness.
Steel Soldiers against aliens. That would be a battle worth watching.
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