Chapter 48 - 48: The Weapons Exhibition

One week later, at the Mason Industries Weapons Testing Grounds… Countless military experts and officials sat comfortably in their chairs, waiting for today's main event. Today was the Mason Industries Weapons Exhibition. Of course, the attendees were exclusively members of the U.S. military. — "Reports indicate that Mason Industries will showcase a new line of advanced weaponry at its testing facility today." "According to insider sources, the weapons on display may exceed anything previously imagined." "This is the Washington Post, bringing you a live report." "Mason Industries, once quiet, is making waves again!" — Not far from the testing grounds, a swarm of reporters broadcasted live. Although they couldn't enter the exhibition itself, that didn't dampen their enthusiasm. Anywhere Mason Industries appeared, headlines followed. A sleek vehicle, emblazoned with the Mason Industries emblem, rolled in, escorted by a convoy. At that moment, the flashing of cameras and clicking of shutters merged into a deafening storm. After all, the person inside was none other than Gene Mason—America's most renowned genius, top weapons designer, and biotech leader. — "Damn! His entrance is on a whole different level!" "This guy's presence is insane!" "Mason Industries is literally the backbone of U.S. defense now!" "Gene Mason, I love you!" "Move aside! Gene is mine!" — Despite the spectacle, the seated military officials and experts remained composed. It was as if Gene Mason had arrived at the exact moment he was supposed to. Waiting for him was only natural. Stepping out of the car, Gene smiled modestly. "Apologies for keeping you all waiting." "Not at all! Mr. Mason, it's an honor to have you here," General Powell quickly responded. At this point, the roles had reversed—if the U.S. military wanted to maintain its technological edge, they had to cater to Gene Mason. "General Powell, we're old friends. No need for such formalities." "Today, I'll be presenting Mason Industries' latest development—the Ares Missile." At these words, every military officer and expert stood up instantly. Gene snapped his fingers. In an instant, a massive holographic display materialized in mid-air. Although the military had already purchased holographic command systems, they still marveled every time they saw Gene's effortless, sci-fi-like technology. "Some say Stark Industries' Jericho Missile represents the pinnacle of missile technology." "I disagree." "Traditional chemical propulsion missiles will inevitably be discarded into the trash heap of history." "Now, allow me to introduce Mason Industries' latest breakthrough—the Ares Missile." On the holographic display, a schematic of the Ares Missile appeared. The experts were instantly shocked. — "No… This isn't possible!" "God, how did they even achieve this?" "This… this rewrites everything we know about missile design!" "This technology shouldn't exist!" "This is… a divine weapon!" — A physical prototype of the Ares Missile was carefully transported to the stage. The Skynet logo was proudly engraved on its body. Unlike conventional missiles, this one had a sleek, metallic blue finish—giving it an almost otherworldly aesthetic. "The Ares Missile is 30 cm long, with a diameter of 10 cm and a weight of just 15 kg." Sёarᴄh the ηovelFire.ηet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "It is compatible with multiple launch systems." Gene smiled as he continued his explanation. "This will be a crucial weapon in maintaining world peace." General Powell ignored the gasps from the experts, his eyes burning with desire. The way he looked at the missile—it was as if he were staring at the love of his life. Far in the distance, ten kilometers away, stood a heavily fortified test structure built for weapons demonstrations. "Now, please witness the power of the Ares Missile." Gene snapped his fingers again. The missile launcher locked onto its target. A single Ares Missile was fired. It accelerated at incredible speed, reaching the target almost instantly. However—there was no explosion. — "What happened?" "Did something go wrong?" "Mason Industries is about to embarrass itself!" "Haha! Even Mason makes mistakes!" — The crowd erupted with speculation. Some sneered, eagerly waiting to see Gene Mason's reaction. General Powell, on the other hand, looked uneasy. But Gene remained calm and composed, as if everything was proceeding exactly as planned. Just then— The holographic display shifted. A brilliant blue glow enveloped the test structure. The light was so intense that it even reflected onto the spectators' faces. — "What… is that?" The audience squinted, struggling to see through the blinding radiance. And then— The light vanished. And so did the test structure. Gone. As if it had never existed. — "This… this is impossible!" "What kind of weapon is this?" "This defies the laws of physics!" "This isn't science—it's a miracle!" "This… this is a weapon of the gods!" — The entire military audience was in complete chaos. No explosion. No sound. And yet—the fortified structure had been completely erased from existence. Gene Mason turned to General Powell, smiling. "General Powell, are you satisfied with the power of the Ares Missile?" -------------- T/N: Access Advance Chapters on my P@treon: [email protected]/MPHFics