Courtyard House: Initial Donation of 50 Million

October 1941, New York, Stark Tower rooftop laboratory.

Autumn sunlight streamed through the huge glass windows, casting bright spots of light on the workbenches filled with precision instruments and intricate blueprints. In addition to the familiar scents of machine oil, ozone, and coffee, there was also a faint, sharp aroma of freshly cut metal in the air.

One corner of the laboratory had been temporarily cleared out, and a makeshift mannequin stand had been erected, on which hung a dark blue combat suit with elements of the American flag, which was being sewn. On the workbench next to it, samples of fabrics of different textures, metal chains, leather padding, and all sorts of oddly shaped buckles and straps were scattered.

Howard Stark was excitedly gesturing at a piece of silver-gray material that shimmered with a metallic sheen but was unusually soft, in front of Wang Huanbo.

"Look at this, Wang! I call it 'Flexible Composite Memory Fabric'!" He pulled the fabric hard; it was incredibly stretchy, but immediately returned to its original shape after being released, with very few wrinkles. "It's a byproduct of my research on reactor insulation linings! It has a multi-layered structure: the outer layer is specially treated ballistic nylon, sandwiched with a fine titanium alloy fiber mesh and a new type of synthetic rubber, and the inner lining is a moisture-wicking, skin-friendly material. It's cut-resistant, puncture-resistant, and can withstand the impact and fragmentation of small-caliber handgun bullets to a certain extent! Most importantly, it's very light and doesn't affect flexibility like steel plates!"

Wang Huanbo took the fabric; it was indeed very light, yet tough and elastic. He tried to scratch it with the leather cutter on the workbench, leaving only a faint white mark that disappeared with a little rubbing. "Excellent material, Howard. It balances protection, weight, and mobility, making it ideal for the needs of highly mobile individual combat. Has its energy dissipation been tested?"

"Of course!" Howard snapped his fingers, pointing to a machine next to him connected to an oscilloscope and strange clamps. "It simulated the impact of 9mm Parabellum and .45 ACP rounds, and the energy dispersion effect is at least 30% better than traditional bulletproof vests! And the breathability is not bad either. I've already had the tailor test this material on Rogers' new suit, focusing on protecting the chest, abdomen, joints, and key arteries."

He walked up to the mannequin and pointed to the combat suit that was already taking shape: "Besides this, I also redesigned his helmet, adding some bulletproof lining and a communication module. The boots have also been improved, with better grip and shock absorption. In addition," he mysteriously pulled a rectangular metal box from under another workbench and opened it.

Inside was a circular shield, about two and a half feet in diameter, with a white five-pointed star in the center and concentric circles of red and blue around it. The shield's surface was smooth as a mirror, exhibiting a unique, dark metallic luster.

"An alloy of vibranium and steel, plus some of my proprietary processing techniques." Howard proudly patted the shield, which produced a dull, solid echo. "It's virtually indestructible, with astonishing energy absorption and rebound properties, and it's much lighter than it looks. I dare say, it's the strongest shield on Earth, bar none! That kid Rogers tried it once and almost smashed through the wall of my lab."

Wang Huanbo stepped forward and carefully picked up the shield. It was indeed lighter than he had expected, yet incredibly heavy and sturdy. He tapped the edge with his fingers; the sound was clear, resonant, and strangely lingering. He knew this shield's future: it would become Captain America's most iconic symbol, accompanying him through countless battles, even withstanding attacks from Thor's hammer and the Infinity Stones.

"A stunning creation, Howard. The perfect materials and structural design; it's practically a work of art," Wang Huanbo exclaimed sincerely. The technical sophistication of this shield, even in the 21st century of the main world, would be considered a masterpiece of top-tier materials science. Howard's genius is truly admirable.

"Haha! You think so too?" Howard laughed smugly, but quickly became serious. "However, this is only part of the equipment. Rogers needs more than just better protection; he needs tools that allow him to utilize his superhuman abilities. I'm designing a special tactical vest that can carry more ammunition, grenades, medkits, and even..." He lowered his voice, his eyes gleaming with excitement, "...a small energy pack, based on our reactor miniaturization concept, to power the special equipment he might use, such as high-intensity flashbangs or a prototype of a high-frequency sonic generator. However, this is still in the blueprint stage; energy stability is still a major issue."

Wang Huanbo nodded. He knew that some of the "special equipment" Howard mentioned would become a reality in future Roaring Commando operations. "Energy stability can be improved by optimizing charge and discharge curves and internal buffer structures. Some computational models I've been working on recently might offer some insights. However, this requires time and testing."

"I know, I know, one step at a time." Howard waved his hand, but was clearly pleased with Wang Huanbo's support. "With you here, it's only a matter of time before we overcome these difficulties. By the way, Phillips and Carter are going to London next week, apparently for a meeting about the formation and first combat deployment of the Howling Commandos. Rogers will be going too. I need to hurry up and make samples of these pieces of equipment so they can take them."

"The Roaring Commando?" Wang Huanbo asked, his expression revealing a hint of inquiry.

"Oh, it's an elite squad that Phillips is preparing to build around Rogers, to carry out special missions like infiltration behind enemy lines, sabotage, and decapitation strikes," Howard explained. "The members will be selected from the elite of various units. Carter will be one of the main liaison officers and tactical advisors. To be honest, I really admire that Rogers kid; he's got guts and ideas, and he doesn't want to just be a mascot. Hopefully, this new gear will help him."

Wang Huanbo understood. Captain America's legend was about to truly begin. The initial equipment Howard had created for him, while far inferior to the advanced technology of S.H.I.E.L.D. later on, was the limit of what the era could offer, and it embodied the initial efforts and wisdom of the future "Iron Man's" father. Being able to participate and provide some indirect assistance felt quite peculiar.

"He will need it," Wang Huanbo said, his gaze fixed on the shield, "especially when facing a real enemy."

“Speaking of the enemy,” Howard’s expression turned serious, and his voice lowered, “Phillips has inside information that Hydra’s activities in Europe are becoming increasingly rampant, and they seem to have acquired some kind of… unconventional weapon. An energy weapon, incredibly powerful, capable of easily penetrating tank armor. Our intelligence personnel have suffered significant losses. Phillips suspects this is related to Dr. Erskine’s early research, and even to the serum formula that was previously stolen. They seem to be searching for some more powerful energy source.”

Wang Huanbo's heart skipped a beat. Hydra's energy weapon was undoubtedly a rudimentary application of the Tesseract (Space Stone). Red Skull, John Schmidt, had already found the Tesseract left by Odin on Earth and begun to unleash its power. A true storm was brewing in Europe. And Captain America and the Howling Commandos would be on the front lines facing this storm.

"A more powerful energy source..." Wang Huanbo mused, "Similar to the direction we're pursuing for our reactors?"

"Perhaps, but the underlying principles might be entirely different." Howard scratched his head, looking somewhat confused and fascinated. "Analysis of the limited battlefield debris shows that their weapons' energy release was very...pure, and seemed to exhibit signs of spatial distortion. This completely defies any currently known physical theory. Unless..." A glint of fervor flashed in his eyes, "Unless they found the legendary legacy of the 'Norse gods,' or...alien technology?"

Wang Huanbo remained noncommittal. Howard's intuition was surprisingly accurate. He changed the subject: "Whatever it is, it's a challenge and a driving force for our research. By the way, regarding the multi-stage lens phase synchronization problem you mentioned last time, I've re-optimized the control algorithm and added a dynamic feedback adjustment module, which might improve the response delay. Want to take a look?"

"Of course!" Howard's attention was immediately drawn back, and he temporarily put Hydra and energy weapons out of his mind. To him, the engineering problem at hand was always more attractive than the mysterious threat in the distance.

The two immersed themselves in the design and calculations of the reactor. Outside the window, under the clear autumn sky, the streets of New York were plastered with propaganda posters and recruitment flyers for "Captain America." The atmosphere of war was growing stronger, but in this futuristic laboratory, two geniuses were working to ignite another beam of light that could change the world.

A few days later, Howard, carrying the hastily completed prototype of the new equipment, accompanied Phillips, Carter, and Steve to London. Wang Huanbo did not go with them; he remained in New York to continue his reactor research while also handling some "personal matters."

After Howard left, the Stark Tower labs became much quieter. Wang Huanbo still went there every day, using the state-of-the-art equipment to continue his research on reactor energy modules and new materials (especially alternative synthesis pathways related to vibranium). He behaved like a scholar obsessed with technology, rarely leaving the building except for necessary business activities and social events.

SSR's "attention" to him seemed to have faded over time and with Howard's guarantee, but Wang Huanbo could sense that occasionally a gaze would still linger in the distance. He remained unperturbed by this and continued as usual.

One evening in early November, on his way back to the Plaza Hotel, Wang Huanbo noticed something unusual. It wasn't the kind of surveillance that SSR had shown, which involved scrutiny and recording; instead, it was a more covert, more... hostile surveillance. The person was very professional, using street corners, shop windows, and crowds to alternately follow him, maintaining a very good distance.

Hydra? Or some other force?

Wang Huanbo remained calm and composed, maintaining his usual gait and speed, but secretly channeled his Ultra Telekinesis, spreading his senses outwards like ripples on water. He "saw" his pursuers, two in total, one in front of the other, dressed in ordinary dark coats and wearing hats, blending into the flow of people leaving get off work. Their movements were coordinated, their eyes sharp, and occasional unintentional gestures revealed signs of rigorous training.

He didn't immediately shake off the other person, but instead continued walking towards the hotel as if he hadn't noticed anything. He wanted to see what the other person was up to and who had sent them.

At the hotel entrance, he nodded to the doorman as usual and entered the lobby. The two men following him stopped at a newsstand across the street. One pretended to read a newspaper, while the other lit a cigarette, his gaze seemingly casually sweeping over the hotel entrance.

Wang Huanbo returned to his room, locked the door, and drew the curtains. He went to the window and, using a gap in the curtains, observed the other side through a low-light-enhanced telescope. The two men were still there, seemingly waiting for something.

Is it surveillance? Or preparation for action?

He pondered for a moment, then retrieved a small, matchbox-sized metal device from his system space. This was a passive, full-band signal receiver and locator he had made himself using scraps from Stark Labs and some technology from "Dragon One," capable of detecting radio signal transmissions within a certain range. He turned it on, and several weak signal sources immediately appeared on the screen, originating from inside and outside the hotel. He adjusted the filter and quickly locked onto two distinctive, regular pulse signals—coming from across the street.

It's a communicator. The other party is contacting someone.

Wang Huanbo didn't act rashly. He waited patiently. About half an hour later, a black Buick sedan slowly drove up and stopped beside the two men. The window rolled down a crack, they seemed to exchange a few words, and then the two men opened the back door and got in. The sedan didn't stop and quickly drove away.

Wang Huanbo quickly noted down the license plate number and activated the receiver's signal backtracking and feature analysis functions, attempting to capture the frequency band and signature of the communication signal. Although the content could not be deciphered, a signal fingerprint could be obtained, which would be helpful for future identification.

"Pangu, record the license plate number 'NY-3478' and mark the target characteristics. Analyze the captured communication signal characteristics and create a comparison file," he silently recited to himself.

"Recording complete. Signal characteristics analyzed; it is an encrypted frequency-hopping shortwave signal with German-style modulation. Feature code archived," Pangu's cold electronic voice replied.

German characteristics? Hydra is more likely. Have they finally noticed me? Is it because of my overly close collaboration with Howard Stark? Or because I inadvertently touched on their sensitive areas during some technical discussions? Or is it just a routine investigation of people associated with Stark?

In any case, being targeted by Hydra means escalating risks. These fanatical Nazis don't act with the same level of evidence and procedure as the SSR.

Over the next few days, Wang Huanbo became more vigilant. He reduced unnecessary nighttime outings, changed some of his travel routes, and had Attorney Chen secretly investigate the license plate number through various channels. As expected, the license plate belonged to an import-export trading company registered in Brooklyn. It appeared innocent, but Attorney Chen used some shady connections to find that the company was linked to several chambers of commerce with German ties that maintained secret dealings with Europe even after the outbreak of the war.

"Mr. Wang, should we... make some arrangements? Or notify Mr. Stark?" Attorney Chen asked with some concern.

"No need for now," Wang Huanbo shook his head. "It's too early to alert them. Just strengthen our own security measures. Also, try to investigate that trading company, especially its personnel and financial transactions over the past six months, but don't go too deep. Just get to the point and don't get targeted."

"clear."

In mid-November, Howard returned from London, travel-worn but in high spirits.

"That was amazing! Wang, it's a real shame you missed it!" As soon as he got back to the lab, he grabbed Wang Huanbo and started talking non-stop. "That kid Rogers, wearing his new gear, was like a completely different person! In the simulation exercise, he single-handedly took down a simulated Hydra outpost! Carter and Phillips were dumbfounded! He used my shield even better than I imagined; it could be used as a weapon, a skateboard, and even a boomerang! That combat suit also did a great job, blocking several stray bullets and shrapnel!"

He took a sip of coffee and continued, "The selection of the Roaring Commando team is basically finalized; they're all top-notch. Phillips plans to have them conduct a few operations in Northern Europe first, to test Hydra's strengths and weaknesses, and to gain practical experience. I've gotten them some 'toys,' like upgraded grenades, explosive cords with magnetic attachments, and stuff like that. Oh, by the way," he lowered his voice, a hint of mystery and excitement in it, "Phillips gave me some weapon wreckage he found in Hydra's destroyed strongholds—energy weapons! Although severely damaged, the remaining energy characteristics and structural design… are incredible! Completely different from any known energy release pattern! I'm sure they've found some kind of energy source we can't understand! A completely new energy source that could change everything!"

Seeing Howard's eyes light up with excitement, Wang Huanbo knew that the Tesseract, one of the Infinity Stones in the Marvel Universe, had officially entered the vision of this genius scientist. This also meant that Red Skull's research and application of the Tesseract had reached a new stage, enough to shock and attract the attention of the Allied high command.

"A completely new energy source..." Wang Huanbo followed up, "Any clues? About its properties?"

"The clues are few and far between, and very...mysterious." Howard frowned. "From some captured, vaguely worded document fragments, there are mentions of 'cosmic cube,' 'power of the gods,' and 'space gates.' Also, some captured low-ranking Hydra officers, during interrogation, ramble on about 'Lord Red Skull obtaining the power of the gods' and 'the frost giants of Jotunheim.' Phillips thinks this is Nazi brainwashing and superstition, but I always feel...it's not that simple. The readings from those energy weapons don't conform to any known laws of physics."

The Tesseract, the portal, the frost giants of Jotunheim… Wang Huanbo remained calm. This information confirmed his memories. Red Skull had indeed found the Tesseract and might have already established connections with Asgard, or even the broader Nine Realms (though this could be a misunderstanding or a misinterpretation). True supernatural forces were beginning to emerge on the stage of World War II.

"It sounds like a hybrid of mythology and science," Wang Huanbo commented. "But energy readings can't be faked. Perhaps it's a higher-dimensional form of energy that we haven't yet discovered, which was mythologized by ancient civilizations. Are you prepared to study it in depth?"

"Of course! Phillips has authorized me to assemble a team specifically to analyze these energy weapon remnants, attempting reverse engineering to at least understand their principles and weaknesses. Wang," Howard looked at him eagerly, "I need your help! Your ideas always inspire me. Especially in energy field analysis and material durability, you're top-notch! Join this team as a special advisor to Stark Industries; I'll handle the SSR side!"

This is an opportunity—an opportunity to delve deeper into research related to the Cosmic Cube, and perhaps even to come into contact with the cube itself in the future. But the risks are also obvious: it could draw him more deeply into a direct confrontation with Hydra, exposing him to greater scrutiny.

Wang Huanbo pondered for a moment, weighing the pros and cons. Obtaining the energy characteristics data of the Cosmic Cube, and possibly even some fragments or derivatives, could have immeasurable value for his "Dragon Rising Project" and his research on the Light Gene. Moreover, joining under the guise of "studying the weaknesses of the opponent's weapons" was reasonable and could further solidify his relationship with Howard and SSR.

"I'm honored, Howard." He finally nodded. "It's every scientist's responsibility to fight this unknown threat. I will do my best."

"Great!" Howard slapped him on the shoulder. "I knew you wouldn't refuse! Tomorrow—no, this afternoon—I'll talk to Phillips! We need to get started as soon as possible; Hydra won't wait for us!"

Howard was extremely efficient. That very afternoon, he secured the necessary approvals from SSR. Although Colonel Phillips still had reservations about Wang Huanbo, the Chinese consultant with a "questionable background," he ultimately approved Wang Huanbo's participation in the analysis project of Hydra's energy weapons as a "limited-authority consultant" due to Howard's strong guarantee and the urgent need for technology. His authority was limited to technical analysis, and he was not allowed access to any strategic intelligence or operational details.

Wang Huanbo had no objection to this. He never wanted to get involved in actual combat. What he wanted was data and samples.

In the following weeks, Wang Huanbo devoted some of his energy to this new project. Howard had acquired a small amount of energy weapon debris, and it was severely damaged, but it was enough to astound any well-informed scientist. It was a uniquely shaped handheld launcher, compact in structure, but its internal energy circuitry and activation mechanism were unlike any known chemical or electrical weapon. Residual energy readings showed that the released energy was extremely pure and efficient, with strong spatial distortion characteristics, as if the energy itself was forcibly "pushing" aside real space, causing destruction.

Wang Huanbo, in Howard's team, was primarily responsible for energy field analysis and materials failure research. Utilizing some of the scanning and analysis capabilities of "Longteng-1" (disguised as a self-made "high-frequency resonance probe"), he successfully resolved the spectral characteristics of some residual energy from the debris, discovering a weak resonance with a specific frequency band in the cosmic microwave background radiation. He also discovered that certain key components inside the weapon appeared to use an isotope of an element that is extremely rare on Earth, and may not even exist there, as a medium or catalyst.

These discoveries were a treasure trove for Howard, and also made SSR pay even closer attention to the "supernatural" technology possessed by Hydra. Wang Huanbo silently recorded all the data, especially the radiation characteristics of the unknown element and the topological structure of the energy circuits. This information was crucial for him to understand the energy properties of the Space Stone, as well as for potential energy simulations or defenses in the future.

Time passed amidst busy research and an increasingly tense atmosphere of war. December arrived, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, and the United States officially declared war on Japan, fully embroiled in World War II. The war machine was running at full capacity; New York's arsenals roared day and night, long lines formed at recruitment offices, and the entire nation was shrouded in a mixture of grief, fervor, and unease.

Wang Huanbo's life seemed largely unchanged, still shuttling between the lab, the hotel, and a few social occasions. But he could sense that several more pairs of eyes were lurking in the shadows. Hydra, SSR, and possibly other forces. New York, the international spy capital, had become even more turbulent under the influence of the war.

It was late December, just before Christmas. Howard was going to Washington to attend a high-level defense technology conference. Before leaving, he found Wang Huanbo, his expression somewhat grave.

"Wang, I may have to leave for a few days. There are some troubles in Washington, regarding the bidding for the new aircraft engine, and... some disputes about energy projects." He rubbed his temples, looking somewhat tired. "While I'm gone, please keep an eye on the lab. The reactor simulations can continue, but SSR might send a specialist to... coordinate the analysis project on the Hydra energy weapons. Phillips doesn't trust outsiders, especially at this time."

"I understand. Don't worry, I'll take care of things here," Wang Huanbo calmly agreed. He knew that with the United States officially entering the war, the competition and control of cutting-edge technology among various forces would become even more intense. As a top arms dealer and a genius inventor, Howard would inevitably be the target of both courting and suspicion from all sides. His own situation as an "outsider" would become even more delicate.

Howard nodded, hesitated, and finally just patted Wang Huanbo on the shoulder forcefully: "Take care, my friend. New York... might be a bit turbulent lately. Be careful yourself."

Wang Huanbo sensed the concern and worry in his words and nodded.

Three days after Howard left, SSR's "coordinator" arrived. To Wang Huanbo's surprise, it wasn't the stereotypical officer or agent he had expected, but a young, capable woman with beautiful blonde hair and sharp blue eyes—Peggy Carter.

"Mr. Wang, I am Peggy Carter, adjutant to Colonel Phillips of the Strategic Scientific Corps." Carter extended her hand, her tone polite yet professional, carrying an undeniable firmness. "Until Mr. Stark returns, I will be in charge of liaising with you on the energy weapons analysis project. I hope we can work together smoothly."

Wang Huanbo shook hands with her, feeling the calluses on her hands from training and the steady strength within. "Agent Carter, I've heard so much about you. Captain Howard and Captain Rogers often mention you, saying you're one of SSR's best agents. It's an honor to work with you."

Carter nodded, showing no emotional fluctuation due to the flattery. She got straight to the point: "Mr. Wang, I've read the preliminary analysis report you and Mr. Stark submitted. The Colonel is very concerned about the unknown elements and space-distorting properties of the energy weapon. We hope you can further assess whether the technology of this weapon is possible to be mass-produced or defended against, and what its most likely energy source is?"

Over the next few days, Wang Huanbo and Carter engaged in close and efficient "collaboration." While called collaboration, it was more of a process where Carter posed questions, and Wang Huanbo provided analysis based on existing data and "reasonable speculation." Carter was extremely perceptive and professional, possessing a technical understanding far exceeding that of ordinary agents, and his questions were often incisive. Wang Huanbo, on the other hand, demonstrated solid professional skills and rigorous logic, answering with neither arrogance nor servility, neither overly conservative nor boastful.

The two spent a lot of time in the lab, discussing data and analyzing charts. Occasionally, they would argue over different interpretations of a technical detail, but all their arguments were based on facts and logic, and the atmosphere was generally rational and focused. Wang Huanbo could sense that Carter was observing him, evaluating him, and trying to determine whether he was a pure technician or someone with ulterior motives. And he, in turn, used this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of SSR's operating style and Carter's own abilities.

Once, while analyzing the spectrum of residual energy, Carter suddenly asked, "Mr. Wang, what do you think of the term 'Cosmic Cube'? It's mentioned many times in Hydra documents and prisoner confessions."

Wang Huanbo's heart skipped a beat, but he remained outwardly calm, continuing to stare at the spectrometer screen: "From a physics perspective, the universe is a multi-dimensional spacetime continuum. 'Cube' might be a symbol or a misunderstanding, perhaps referring to a carrier or device capable of stably outputting high-dimensional energy. If it truly exists, its energy level and technological sophistication would far exceed our current understanding. As for whether it's the energy source for Hydra's weapons…" He paused, looking at Carter, "There's a lack of direct evidence, but the possibility isn't low. The purity and spatial properties of that energy bear a resemblance to some 'divine artifacts' described in myths and legends."

Carter gave him a deep look, a thoughtful glint in his blue eyes: "You seem to have a fondness for mythology as well?"

"I only know a little bit. In Berlin, a professor who studies ancient semiotics was very interested in the connection between Norse mythology and energy relics, and I sat in on his lectures," Wang Huanbo answered frankly, a statement that was half true and half false.

Carter didn't press further and instead moved on to another technical detail. But Wang Huanbo knew that his descriptions of "high-dimensional energy carriers" and "divine artifacts" had already left an impression on her.

On Christmas Day, the laboratory was closed. Wang Huanbo stayed alone in his hotel suite, organizing all the data he had recently collected on Hydra energy weapons, as well as the scattered information he had gleaned from Howard and Carter about the European battlefield and the Howling Commandos operations.

A light snow began to fall outside the window, blanketing New York in silver. The festive atmosphere was somewhat overshadowed by the shadow of war, but a few Christmas carols could still be heard.

Wang Huanbo stood by the window, gazing at the snow-covered city. More than a month had passed since Captain America led the Howling Commandos to their initial success in Europe. Red Skull's excavation and application of the Tesseract must have entered a new phase as well. The gears of war were turning faster, and he, this infiltrator from the future, had already established a foothold in this world, acquired crucial resources, and begun to touch upon deeper secrets.

Howard's trust, Carter's scrutiny, SSR's vigilance, Hydra's lurking... he was walking a tightrope, every step requiring precise calculation.

But the gains were also enormous. Super Soldier Serum and Notebook, preliminary blueprints and key technology verifications for the Arc Reactor, firsthand data on the energy of the Cosmic Cube, and initial contacts with key figures of the future such as Captain America, Howard Stark, and Peggy Carter.

"Pangu, create an independent encrypted file, codenamed 'Eye of Asgard,' and record all acquired energy data, structural inferences, and mythological connections related to the Cosmic Cube. Establish a simulation analysis task to attempt to derive its basic energy release model and spatial interference coefficients," he silently recited.

"File created. Analysis task initiated. Estimated computation time is 72 hours. Results will be stored in an encrypted database."

"Very good." Wang Huanbo withdrew his gaze and walked to the desk. Dr. Erskine's notes were spread out on the desk, next to which were Howard's latest reactor design sketches, as well as his own concept drawing of a "high-dimensional energy stable confinement field" that incorporated some Ironblood technology and the Land of Light theory.

Different worlds, different civilizations, different power systems, yet at this special juncture in time and space, through this anomaly, they are subtly intertwined.

Outside the window, the snow fell heavier and heavier, shrouding the city's hustle and bustle and shadows in a pure white blanket. But Wang Huanbo knew that this calm was merely a facade. A real storm was brewing across the Atlantic and would soon sweep across the globe.

He was ready to seize what he needed from this storm that was sweeping the world and even the universe, and then quietly leave behind a future that might be slightly altered, but would eventually return to the main storyline.