57 Machine Man 55 : New Recruits

In SHIELD headquarters, nestled within one of its bustling monitoring halls, Director Nick Fury stood alongside his trusted colleagues, Agent Phil Coulson and the scientists Leo Fitz and Jemma Simmons. The room was bathed in a bright with the glow reflecting off the monitors lining the walls.

Natasha Romanoff's video feed played on the main screen, it displayed the Militech Robot R Mk.2 in action, showcasing its astonishing capabilities. As they watched, a sense of disbelief washed over the room. The robots moved with a fluidity and precision that was almost human-like, yet they possessed incredible strength and speed far beyond anything a human is capable off.

Fury leaned forward, as he addressed his team. "It's good that we sent Natasha into Arasaka to gather intel," he said, his voice heavy with gravitas. "If not for her, we might have learned about this too late. And by then, it could've given us a bigger headache than it already is."

"These robots... They move like nothing I've ever seen before," Coulson remarked, his voice laced with a mixture of awe and apprehension. "Their agility, their precision... It's like they're super soldiers in their own right."

Fitz and Simmons exchanged a glance, their expressions mirroring Coulson's astonishment. "The biomechanical engineering behind these machines is extraordinary," Fitz commented, his fingers flying across a keyboard as he analyzed the data streaming in. "It's as if they've achieved a perfect human movement, it's definitely a major scientific breakthrough in robotics, it's almost creepy with how human like their movements are."

Simmons nodded in agreement "50 years head… No maybe even more!"; her eyes glued to the screen. "And look at their musculature and joint movement. It's incredibly lifelike, yet far more efficient and powerful than anything or anyone has ever develop so far," she added, her voice tinged with fascination.

Fury's eyes narrowed as he surveyed the data spread out before him. "It's almost as if he timed such a project with Stark disappearing," he remarked, his voice tinged with suspicion.

Coulson, nodded in agreement. "I was thinking the same thing, Director. It can't be a coincidence. With Stark out of the picture, it's the perfect opportunity for Arasaka to capitalize on the connections Stark had left behind."

Fury's expression hardened. "You're right. This is no mere coincidence; it's too calculated," he affirmed, his tone grave. "He now has personal connections with the military, and even the president is praising him as the genius of this generation for creating this new type of weapons."

Meanwhile, Fitz meticulously scanned through the records, his brow furrowed in concentration. "His Militech company has gone from a mere side project to one of the most anticipated and potentially the fastest-growing companies to date," he reported, his voice betraying a hint of concern.

Coulson, always focused on the tactical implications, chimed in. "If Arasaka is able to mass-produce these units, it could revolutionize warfare as we know it," he stated, his tone somber. "We need to assess their potential threat level and formulate a contingency plan."

Fury's expression remained steely as he issued his next command. "Get me all the intel you can on Arasaka's operations and any known associates," he ordered, his voice commanding. "I will personally lead this mission."

His voice cut through the tension. "I will personally go and meet Arasaka," he declared, his tone unwavering. "The military is already ahead of us, I want him to personally work for us. If that is not possible, we need to negotiate an exclusive contract or one that offers far more advantages than what the military is getting."

"We will even collaborate with the UN if we have to," Fury added firmly. "I doubt the US military will be happy if they ever find out, but we are SHIELD. We should be the ones with the latest equipment since we are the protectors of this world!" his fist slamming into the table, creating a loud noise that reverberated through the room, showing his resolved.

Around the table, Fury's top agents and advisors nodded in solemn agreement. They understood the gravity of the situation and the importance of securing Arasaka's cooperation. With his advanced technology and resources, he could be a formidable ally or a dangerous adversary.

As the agents dispersed to carry out their orders, the weight of the task ahead hung heavy in the air. The prospect of confronting Alex Arasaka, a man who now have connections with military, was daunting. But Fury knew that they had to act swiftly and decisively to protect the interests of SHIELD and the world at large.

With Fury at the helm, they would leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of Arasaka's cooperation. Whether through diplomacy or coercion, they would ensure that SHIELD emerged victorious from this encounter.

Back in Savage Land.

In the Praetorian camp, the atmosphere buzzed with the mechanical hum of the ongoing mine and forging of new armor and weapons.

A month had passed since Alex's revelation about the extraordinary herb, within this time he had work as a walking factory, using his new found ability to build complex component that would have taken days to complete, but he had done them in just minutes.

With that he has now fully armed the Praetorians with state-of-the-art weaponry and armor forged from the formidable combination of Vibranium and Adamantium.

The new blue armor, reminiscent of the CMC Powered Combat Suit from Starcraft, exuded an imposing presence. Standing at a towering 2.2 meters in height and weighing around 1090 kilograms, the bulky blue power armors were a testament to the advanced technology at their disposal.

Each suit boasted integral components designed to enhance the Praetorians' capabilities on the battlefield.

A temperature regulator and nutrient supplier, cleverly integrated as a "backpack," not only channeled heat away from the body but also gives the praetorians ability to survive for days without eating. It also served as a rocket booster, granting limited flight capabilities.

The visor system, equipped with a crystal dome made of Vibranium, shielded the user's head from almost anything while providing essential information about the suit's integrity through a series huds and its fully capable of giving real time information about the course of battle.

The Shoulder-housed ammunition reloads and sensor arrays, structural support for improved firing stances, and a salvage system that sealed breached areas like a tourniquet showcased the suits' versatility. For those who prefer melee weapons this has been change to house mini rockets capable of destroying tanks and armored adversary.

The outer shell is crafted from Adamantium and laced with Vibranium, granted near immunity to most weapons. Advance NBC(Nuclear, Biological and Chemical) shielding and life support systems ensured the Praetorians could endure in various environmental conditions.

The boots are cleverly designed with rocket boosters giving the praetorians a dashing ability which they can move at fast speed within any environment. Not only that it is capable of gravity accelerators to be use in conjunction with space platform so they can even accelerate in space, it can even be use as grav-boots so they can stand firm even with zero gravity.

The Praetorians marveled at their enhanced capabilities, their loyalty to their Emperor, Alex solidified by the cutting-edge technology that now adorned their bodies. As they tested the suits in simulated scenarios, the underground camp became a playground of power, each step resonating with the unmistakable sound of armored footfalls.

Alex, observing the Praetorians in their new attire, nodded in satisfaction. The Praetorians were now an even more formidable force, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. The advanced technology not only granted them superior protection but also greater power.

Although some declined the new suit as it will hinder their capabilities instead of enhancing them, like the leaders who are now clad in red cyber armor like Strife and Vincent. So Instead of the bulky power armor Skynet not only provided custom armor for the team leaders she even upgraded their cyberware and body enhancement.

Now Strife looks like a cyborg that has a distinct appearance that combines traditional Japanese elements with futuristic technology. Like a cyber ninja, he wears a set of sleek, technologically advanced armor, making him look like Genji from Overwatch. He still uses his Mantis blades which are now made of adamantium.

Vincet a master of marksmanship, now sport a red cloak made out of Vibranium capable of generating energy shield and is capable of full optical camouflage and chameleon cloak. He even has boosters on his boots and arms giving him full flight capabilities. He also has two pistols with a modifier that causes it to fire explosive rounds. As for his main weapon he carries a massive sniper railgun. It can be charged to deal additional damage and greater penetrating power. His every move shrouded, like a vampire in the mystery of the shadows.

Cid and Barret, the veterans of the group, rejected the offer of new armor in favor of something less bulky. Clad in Red Powered Assault Armor inspired by the Mjolnir Armor from Halo, they moved with newfound speed and agility. The armor, crafted from the finest adamantium and Vibranium, enhanced their reflexes and durability without sacrificing the essence of their combat prowess.

Barret, having forsaken his traditional gatling arm, now armed with an energy-based plasma weapon. It is capable of being charge to fire a thick ball of energy, capable of devastating force that left destruction in its wake.

Cid still uses the same revolver ballistic weapon as he said he preferred traditional ammunition instead of a fancy laser pistol. As for the Spear he uses a high-frequency Adamantium spear, it is reinforced by a powerful alternating current, resonating at extremely high vibration frequencies which is capable of cutting almost through anything.

Amidst these upgrades, Rico, the most fanatic servant, had undergone the most radical change. Pleading with Alex and Skynet for more power so he can better do his duties, he embraced a full-body upgrade that left only 4% of his ganic being. The rest was an intricate fusion of machine and man, a black and gun metal colored cyborg reminiscent of both Adam Smasher and Jack 8. Rico had become a walking arsenal, a living embodiment of strength capable of decimating an army.

As Alex marveled at the transformation of his loyal subjects. Skynet alerted him to the status of the Matrix machine where the indoctrination process is running for the newcomers.

"Father," Skynet began, "the indoctrination process for the newcomers is complete. Remarkably, it only took a month for this group, a stark contrast to the years it took for the previous team."

Surprised, Alex queried, "How did this happen, Skynet?"

"I have updated the Matrix, leveraging the increased energy output from the new arc reactor. While it does consume more energy, the advancement in processing speed is significant. Thirty days in real time now equate to 300 days in the Matrix. We've achieved a leap from the usual 1 to 1 ratio to an impressive 1 to 10."

Glad by the sudden increase in efficiency, Alex turned to the new upgrades within the base. Alex and Skynet had integrated a fully functioning Sun Reactor, a marvel crafted from the blueprint designed by Dr. Octavius.

Its structure, intertwined with Vibranium with its ability to withstand strong vibration and durability it is able to hold off the gravitational pull and solar radiation, The Sun Reactor now acted not only as a power source but also as a primary light source for the underground base.

During the day, a hard light barrier mimicked sunlight, casting a warm, artificial glow that illuminated the cavernous space. During the night the base lights came on as the Sun reactor is enclosed in Vibranium, mimicking the cycle of sunlight.

Skynet, with pride in her voice, added, "The whole base is now almost entirely automated, thanks to the T-800 and Squiddy drones deployed for various tasks, from production to mining. Any menial work is now handled efficiently, allowing the Praetorians to focus on more crucial matters."

Praetorians, armed to the teeth with newly crafted weapons and armor, patrolled the now orderly base. The hum of machinery and the soft glow of the artificial sun created an atmosphere of industrious harmony, a stark contrast to the once tumultuous environment.

Since the indoctrin for the new comers has been completed, Alex ask Skynet to assemble the newest additions to his Praetorian Guard. Skynet using her new android body, donned in a crimson-themed, form-fitting power armor, stood before me followed by the 35 humanoid creatures of various species. Each one marching with her with disciplined precision.

These beings, diverse in appearance, had not yet undergone cybernetic enhancements. Alex, aware of the genetic distinctions among the different species, chose caution over haste. Instead, they bore CMC power armor, significantly augmenting their speed, agility, and strength. The crystal dome helmet, now enhanced with real-time information, graced their heads, offering a tactical advantage in any situation.

Despite lacking the cybernetic enhancements, these warriors are still more powerful than the average human. Each are capable of 2-4 tons of lifting power even without the power armor.

All of them are wielding Vibranium spears capable of firing energy beams and tower shields with the ability to deploy protective barriers. A fusion of traditional melee and advanced energy-based technology.

The Praetorians, standing tall in their formidable open-helms, exposed snouts, and varied appearances, exuded an air of strength. Though they might not match the cutting-edge cyber enhancements of the original Praetorians, but their collective presence suggested a force to be reckoned with.

As Skynet led them forward, Alex observed the group with a discerning eye. He acknowledged the limitations of introducing unfamiliar firearms, it seems the old saying is true you can't teach an old dogs new trick. So instead, he recognizes the proficiency these warriors had developed with their claws, swords, and shields throughout their lives by providing them with simple cold weapons instead.

Alex was sure he can change their perception and have then learn through and through but that will take a lot of time. Specially since his preparing of the upcoming battle with Sauron. So for now he look at his new recruits.

Among them, Shana O'Hara stood out, a beacon of adaptability and leadership. As an enhance human, she had proven herself in the simulated battles, displaying a remarkable affinity for modern weapons and tactics. Though she declined cyber enhancement but embraced the cutting-edge Mjolnir armor, effortlessly wielding a chainsaw sword and firearms with precision.

Among the diverse species one beastkin stands out, Byakko, a humanoid white tiger beastman, towered at 7'4 feet tall. Clad in the formidable Predator Killer armor, he exhibited a mastery of primal weaponry. The claw blades from the armor were his preferred instruments, showcasing a deadly dance in the simulated battles. He even has shown proficiency in wielding the two shoulder-mounted plasma cannons with high accuracy and ease, a testament to his combat prowess.

Skynet, maintaining her composed and logical demeanor, explained, "These warriors come from various species, each with a unique biological makeup. Although we have found a workaround for cyberpsychosis in humans, we are uncertain about how cyber enhancement might affect their minds. For now, we have opted to forgo cybernetic enhancements, but they are still equipped with the latest version of our power armor."

With a nod from Alex, he surveyed the new recruits before him, a mixture of relief and apprehension swirling within him. While he was satisfied with the addition of 35 new members to his ranks, there lingered a nagging sense of unease.

"Even though these 35 warriors have given me their consent to become my slaves," Alex murmured to himself, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. "I really shouldn't let that corrupt me. I might turn into a megalomaniac and end up brainwashing the whole world."

Just like the previous Praetorians who had been indoctrinated by him, even with the promise of living like an able person again, he still coerced them. The last thing he needed was to draw the attention of powerful heroes and risk being labeled a villain by them.

Yet, despite his best efforts to focus on the task at hand, Alex couldn't shake the persistent feeling of vulnerability that came with existing in the Marvel universe. The constant threat of interdimensional beings or cosmic entities wreaking havoc upon Earth loomed over him like a dark cloud, casting a shadow of fear upon his thoughts.

He knew that he needed to bolster his forces, to gather a more powerful army capable of defending against any potential threats. But the question remained: how could he accomplish this without succumbing to the very darkness he sought to combat?

Lost in contemplation, Alex pondered his next move, determined to find a path that would lead to strength without sacrificing his principles. For in a world teeming with heroes and villains, he knew that the line between the two was perilously thin, and he refused to let himself fall on the wrong side of it.

Note:

Thank you for your suggestion specially about some parts concerning the MC, almost end up turning him to a villain. I'll try my best to fix those. And as always thank you for supporting this half arse fanfic, cheers!