Chapter 40: The party, John Corben, Fight with Metallo.
After the press conference, Ethan notified all his employees to assemble. He told his secretary to direct them to the conference room because he had some thing to say.
Ethan Harper stood in the sleek, modern conference room of Aether Corp, looking out over the bustling city of Metropolis through the large glass windows. The morning sun reflected off the glass towers that surrounded the building, giving the room a warm, golden hue. The hum of activity around the office was palpable, with employees typing away at their computers, discussing projects, and making phone calls. It was just another busy day at the company that had risen to prominence in less than a year.
Today, however, Ethan wasn't there to discuss a new development or product; he had something special to announce. He could feel the excitement building inside him, knowing this announcement would be a momentous one for his team.
The conference room was set up for a team-wide meeting, and the employees slowly filed in, taking their seats at the long table. Some of them were senior executives, others junior engineers or analysts, but all of them had been integral to the success of Aether Corp. They greeted each other casually, sipping coffee or chatting about the day's work.
Ethan, standing at the head of the table, waited for the room to quiet down. He cleared his throat and smiled warmly at the group before he spoke.
"Good morning, everyone," he began, his voice carrying easily across the room. "I know you're all busy, so I'll make this quick. I just wanted to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your dedication and hard work over the past year."
He paused, letting the words sink in, his eyes scanning the faces in the room. Most of them smiled, some nodding in appreciation.
"As you all know," Ethan continued, "Aether Corp started from nothing. From an idea, a vision. And now, in just under twelve months, we've made massive strides in multiple industries. We've successfully launched cutting-edge energy solutions, developed a groundbreaking quantum computer, and changed the way the world thinks about clean energy. But none of that would have been possible without the collective effort of all of you."
A few murmurs of agreement rippled through the room, and a few employees exchanged proud glances.
"We've come so far, but we're just getting started," Ethan said, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "And to celebrate our incredible first year together, I've decided we're going to have a party. It's going to be a celebration not just of the company's success, but of all of you—of the brilliant minds that made it happen."
The room seemed to shift, a wave of energy moving through it. Some employees looked at each other with surprise and excitement. A few whispered to each other, trying to process the announcement.
"Yes, I know what you're thinking," Ethan continued with a grin. "A party! But it's going to be a special one. We'll be hosting it next Wednesday, one week from today, at a venue right here in Metropolis. It'll be a chance for us to relax, unwind, and have some fun after all the hard work we've put in. There will be food, drinks, live entertainment, and of course, plenty of opportunities for all of us to celebrate what we've achieved."
A wave of applause erupted from the group. There were cheers and clapping as employees exchanged excited glances. Ethan could see the tension in their shoulders ease as the promise of a celebration took hold. After all, they had worked tirelessly over the past year, and a night to unwind was well deserved.
Ethan raised a hand to quiet the room, and the applause slowly died down. "But this party won't just be a celebration of our past," he said, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "It's also a look ahead to the future. We're on the cutting edge of innovation, and our work is just beginning. The future of Aether Corp is limitless. So, this party is as much a thank you for what we've done as it is a toast to the incredible things we'll achieve in the years to come."
There was a moment of silence in the room as the weight of his words settled in. Ethan could see the pride on his employees' faces. They were more than just workers—they were part of something monumental, something that would shape the future.
"So, next Wednesday, mark your calendars. We'll be celebrating our first year, and I want to see all of you there. It's going to be an evening to remember."
With a final nod, Ethan looked around the room. "Thank you again for everything you've done, and keep up the great work. Let's finish this year strong, and let's make next year even better."
The employees stood, breaking into applause once more. Some exchanged high-fives, while others chatted excitedly about the upcoming party. Ethan stood back, watching them, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. This moment was not just about celebrating the company's success
The night of the party arrived, and the Celestial Grand Hall in Metropolis was abuzz with excitement. The venue, one of the most luxurious in the city, was packed with distinguished guests, ranging from corporate executives and scientists to celebrities and influential figures. Ethan had chosen to celebrate the one-year milestone of Aether Industries in grand fashion, ensuring every detail reflected the company's monumental success over the past year.
Curiously, one notable group was missing from the guest list—the Justice League. Despite his growing camaraderie with some of its members, Ethan had deliberately chosen to keep this event strictly professional.
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Location: An event hall in Metropolis
Time, Wednesday, 1 week later.
Ethan entered the hall with his usual confidence, dressed impeccably in a tailored charcoal suit. His presence immediately commanded attention, and the room erupted in applause as he strode in. With a charming smile, he greeted guests, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries.
"Ethan, congratulations! Aether Industries is truly reshaping the world," said a tech CEO as they clinked glasses.
"Thank you," Ethan replied with a grin. "It's been a team effort, but this is just the beginning. We've got so much more to achieve."
The room was alive with chatter, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. Waiters weaved through the crowd, serving gourmet hors d'oeuvres and drinks. A live jazz band played softly in the background, adding to the sophisticated ambiance.
Midway through the evening, Ethan took to the stage, drawing the attention of the crowd. The chatter died down as all eyes turned to him.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Ethan began, his voice steady and confident. "Tonight, we're here to celebrate not just the success of Aether Industries, but the people who made it possible. One year ago, we started with a vision—a vision to innovate, to challenge the status quo, and to make the world a better place. And thanks to the dedication and brilliance of our team, we've turned that vision into reality."
The crowd erupted into applause, and Ethan waited a moment before continuing.
"But let me be clear—this is only the beginning. The breakthroughs we've achieved in energy, quantum computing, and technology are just the foundation. The future holds even greater challenges, and I'm confident that, together, we'll rise to meet them."
He raised his glass. "Here's to innovation, progress, and a brighter tomorrow. Cheers!"
The hall resounded with cheers and the clinking of glasses as everyone joined in the toast.
After the speech, Ethan moved through the crowd, engaging in meaningful conversations with guests. He discussed potential collaborations, future projects, and shared a few lighthearted moments with old friends and colleagues.
"Ethan, I have to ask," said an ambitious young entrepreneur. "What's your secret to such rapid success?"
Ethan chuckled. "There's no secret formula. It's about surrounding yourself with brilliant people, staying focused on your goals, and always being willing to take calculated risks."
Meanwhile, reporters from major news outlets tried to corner him for exclusive quotes. Ethan, ever the diplomat, answered just enough to keep them intrigued without risking too much."
The party still ongoing, Ethan found a quiet moment by one of the floor-to-ceiling windows, gazing out at the Metropolis skyline. The city glittered like a sea of stars, a testament to human ambition and resilience.
He felt a deep sense of pride and satisfaction. This wasn't just a celebration of the past year; it was a statement of intent. Aether Industries was here to stay, and it would continue to push boundaries and shape the future.
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Location: Secret Cadmus Facility
At 8 PM, in a secret laboratory concealed within a mountain range, the culmination of a long-running experiment was finally unveiled. The room was dimly lit, save for the faint green glow emanating from a reinforced containment pod at the center. Around it stood a team of scientists, their expressions a mix of nervous anticipation and pride.
Inside the pod was John Corben, a man whose life had been irrevocably changed. His body had been enhanced with a powerful alloy known for its near-indestructibility, and a unique energy source had been integrated into his system to provide unparalleled power.
The lead scientist took a cautious step forward and activated the release mechanism. With a sharp hiss, the containment pod opened, and Corben emerged. His movements were precise, almost mechanical, and the modifications to his body gleamed under the laboratory's fluorescent lights.
As Corben tested his movements, the doors to the laboratory slid open, and a woman of commanding presence entered. Her sharp eyes surveyed the scene, lingering on Corben's transformed figure. She walked with purpose, exuding confidence as she approached.
"So, it's complete," she said, her voice steady and controlled.
The lead scientist nodded, clearing his throat nervously. "Yes, the enhancements are fully functional. His body is now resilient against conventional weaponry, and his new energy core is stable and effective."
The woman turned her attention back to Corben, her lips curling into a satisfied smile. "How do you feel?"
Corben's voice, altered by the modifications, resonated with a low, metallic tone. "Stronger. Better. Ready."
Letitia circled him, her sharp heels clicking against the floor. "You're not just John Corben anymore. You're something more now—an advanced being capable of taking on challenges no ordinary human could face. And I have a mission for you."
Corben tilted his head slightly, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. "A mission?"
She stopped in front of him, meeting his gaze with an intensity that left no room for doubt. "Yes. You'll be taking on a significant threat to humanity. A symbol of unchecked power and arrogance. It's time to remind the world that no one is invincible."
Her words were deliberate, and Corben understood their meaning instantly. He nodded slowly, the faintest hint of a smile crossing his face.
"I'll show them," he said, his voice firm. "They'll see what happens when they underestimate us."
Satisfied, Letitia gestured toward the lead scientist. "Prepare the transport. He needs to be deployed immediately."
The scientist hesitated. "Ma'am, we've tested the enhancements extensively, but—"
"But nothing," she interrupted, her tone leaving no room for argument. "We've prepared for this moment, and it's time to act."
Corben stepped forward, his enhanced body moving with precision and purpose. The modifications glinted under the lab's lights as he approached the transport platform, ready for deployment.
Letitia addressed him one last time. "This isn't just about strength. It's about sending a message. You're a force of change, a symbol of what humanity can achieve. Don't forget that."
Corben nodded, his confidence unwavering, entered into the helicopter. The Helicopter took off with a whoosh. Letitia stood back, watching with satisfaction. She knew this was only the beginning.
A dozen of minutes later,Corben was dropped in a secluded corner of Metropolis, his new form a striking contrast to the bustling city around him. The lights of the city gleamed in the distance, vibrant and full of life. But to Corben, it was a battleground.
He stepped out from the shadows, his metallic frame catching the light of a nearby streetlamp. Every step he took echoed with authority. He had a mission, and nothing would stand in his way